Take Me to the Valley

Mountain Men of Whiskey River #8

by Kaci Rose

This is Detective Evan Geer's story!Welcome to Whiskey River, Montana!

Genres: Romance, Contemporary

319 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 12, 2024

About the author

Join Kaci's VIP mailing list and get 2 FREE Novellas at
http://www.kacirose.com/free-books

Kaci runs on coffee, chocolate, and Oreos. She loves her book boyfriends with tattoos, muscles, beards, and a little dirty.

Kaci loves romance books and has been jotting down ideas since she was in high school and is now putting the ideas down on paper. She believes in satisfying, happily ever afters with a lot of steam on the way.

Follow Kaci Rose
Facebook @KaciRoseAuthor
Instagram @KaciRoseAuthor

Reviews

[Mia S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 8 in the series, Evan’s story- cop that initially arrested Axel and has been helping men. This story of course steamy, but more story than steam which was actually cute. Evan is attracted to his best friend’s older sister- yes a reverse age gap and best friend’s sister trope! Also Evan’s a single dad, so yes all interesting turns. There are mentions of the others on the mountain and blurbs of the other men, and the ending resolution was absolutely what I would love. Yes sure the brother is the next story and I’m here for it!

[Didi · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite series and Detective Evan Greer gets his story! This can be a standalone but I highly recommend reading the prior books to enhance this one. Evan’s life focuses his daughter and his job until the day his past crush comes back to town. Calista Stapleton, has come back to help her family. Both are stunned by seeing each other again and are instantly attracted. When Evan is injured, Calista finds herself volunteered by her little brother to care for his BFF. From there the love magic begins with proximity, undeniable chemistry, a sweet girl, forbidden love vibes, reverse age gap taboos, tenderness, community and found family, soul connection, family angst, passion and a forever love. Can’t wait for the next in this series!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Holly McAnulty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that the series wrapped up with Detective Greers story. I’m so VERY excited to see there’s a spin off series coming. Skye was the cutest and really brought so much to the story line.

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I enjoyed kaci roses writing and story telling but this series gets extremely repetitive after the third book. I do love that each character we get to see develop but I wish she would change up the plot just a bit.

[Brandi-Lynn Weiser · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fairly quick read. I’ve always loved Kaci’s writing and how she portrays her characters. I liked Evan and Calista’s slow burn romance, and normally I’m not a fan of a slow burn, but with how Kaci writes I didn’t mind it! Plus it was nice watching them get close. Evan was the best girls dad! Skye was the cutest ever, especially when she was saying how horrifying Evan braided her hair! I had to laugh when she said her braid fell apart when he tried to put the pony tail holder on.
I definitely recommend this book, as well as every other book Kaci’s written!

[Haley Stoner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Kaci’s books! This was sweet, quick read. I love how real and personal she makes her characters. This book made me want to look up to try Banana Foster Pancakes.

I feel like the book could have been longer as I felt there could have been more character exploration and some of the chapters could have been more in depth. Emilie’s chapter didn’t really feel like it fit.

Overall, if you’re looking for a cute, quick read, I’d recommend!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sarah Nielsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic brother’s best friend romance. It was a well written story that just had me hooked from the beginning. I loved returning to Whiskey River and getting to reconnect with some past favorites. The story was very entertaining and I loved the dynamic between not only Evan and Calista but also and perhaps especially between Calista and Skye, it was just so special the way the two bonded. I absolutely loved the story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mandy Reads Indie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quickie Review: I went in so excited for this book, wanting to see who Evan will end up with. He has been around since the beginning and it’s time he found his happiness. The story was amazing and so very heartfelt. Their romance was sweet and I loved that it was a reverse age gap, something that we haven’t seen in this series yet. As always, I can’t wait for more to come from this author. 5 Stars.

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.75

quick, fun read.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love mountain men alpha obsessed me with the happily ever after, then these books are for you !!

I’ve been obsessed with This series since book one ! I love how each book give you some backstory from the others so it helps with the little reminders. Going through each story and seeing Evan be there for everyone else, it was nice that his happily ever after finally comes!

I absolutely love kaci’s writing and telling of the story’s! I hope there are some spin off series for the distillery boys and keep the towns story going .

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 8 of The Whiskey River Mountian Men - is a captivating blend of romance and emotional tension. Evan, a protective single dad and detective, has long kept his distance from Calista, his best friend’s sister. But when circumstances bring them together… fire initiates and the rest is history (I’ll save the details for you to read).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lois · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐s What lies ahead for them?

Evan's ex had contacted him to tell him that she was pregnant and was going to give the baby up for adoption. He insisted that he be given custody. When he first held his baby girl, he'd sworn that he'd always put her first in his life. He's never wavered in that decision.

Skye's mother had signed away the rights to her daughter before leaving the hospital after the delivery. She couldn't get to Hollywood fast enough to begin her quest to become a star. After seven years, she is getting some TV commercials and small roles on soap operas. He knows Skye will have many more questions some day, but for now, she's satisfied with what she's been told about her mother.

Now Evan and Skye have moved to Whiskey River, Montana. They've made so many friends since they began the moving process, and the mountain men and their families have included them in their circle of protection. He's not in as remote of an area as some of the men. He has to be able to get into town during the winter for Skye's school and his job. But it is remote enough that deliveries of items do take more time.

He's ecstatic to be back in the mountains. He hopes Skye will love them as much as he does. The only thing missing from his life is a woman to share his life with. He'd love to find someone to be a real mom to Skye; someone to love him as much as he loves her as they build a future together. Now that he's moved, he's considering retiring from the police force, but he's not sure what kind of new occupation he wants for his new career. Time to make one of the pro vs. con lists that his friend, Cody, always teases him about.

Calista was between jobs when her brother called her. He was able to convince her to come home and help her four brothers with the distillery they'd opened in town. It's doing so well that they need more help, and who better than family to help? It wasn’t until after she agreed that she was told about her father. His health is declining, and her mother hadn't told her about his rapid decline and that help is needed to care for him. Since she's a nurse, she's the obvious choice.

She knows that although her brothers promise that they'll help, they'll soon back out. They had already done it to her when she had moved to care for their grandparents. She'll soon be expected to do more and more since she's home and the convenient and logical choice to do this and that... That's one of the major reasons she left home to begin with. Despite being older than three of her brothers, all four of them are super protective of her. She appreciates them, but they never received the memo stating that she needs her space. That's why she didn't tell her family when she'd be arriving. She'll have one night of peace at her apartment before her family descends upon her. She's excited to see her best friend, Kaylee, again, who still lives in town. After college, Kaylee returned home, while she moved elsewhere. They still talk to each other several times a day and visit each other or vacation together.

Her plan for a night of peace and quiet ends when she comes upon an accident on the mountain road by a sharp curve. Of course, the police officer who responds to the 911 call is Evan, her brother Cole's best friend. It's hard to fathom that the kid she saw grow up with her brother is the hottie cop standing in front of her. When he mentions that Skye is staying overnight with her parents while he's working a friend's night shift, she's jealous of his love interest. She'd momentarily forgotten about his daughter. What's going on here? He's six years younger than her and has a child. She's never been drawn to younger men or single fathers. He promises not to tell her family that she arrived early. But he does give her his number and asks her to text him when she gets to her apartment. Another protector is all she needs, but he was sweet about it.

Evan had never told anyone, but when Calista had left for college, he'd had a big crush on her. She's not returned since, and he thought the crush had died away. That was until he saw her again. It suddenly sprang back into full force. When Skye and Calista meet, there's an immediate bond between them. Calista even makes arrangements to braid Skye's hair the next morning before picture day at school. That's another reason for him to back away from Calista. If they date and should break up, Skye could lose the connections to the only grandparent figures in her life. He can't chance that happening.

Then the police raid Kaylee's home looking for drugs, and her slimeball of an ex-boyfriend shoots Evan. Some of the police even seem to think Kaylee is involved.

So, what now?

I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Calista and Evan’s story is sweet and sexy with plenty of spice, a bit of drama and a dash of angst. There are a few factors that make a romantic relationship between them tilt toward forbidden, at least in the eyes if some. Calista is older than Evan by six years, though the real sticking point is that she is his best friend’s sister and his friend has warned all of his friends that she was off limits. Another point that they must consider is Evan’s close relationship with Calista’s whole family. Evan and his daughter Skye have been absorbed into the family as if they always belonged. If a relationship between Evan and Calista goes sour, the aftermath could leave her family divided or Evan and Skye on their own. Even with all these factors to consider, neither can bury their attraction to the other or deny their deepening feelings. When Evan gets hurt Calista, a nurse, moves in to care for him and his daughter. They can no longer resist the pull toward each other, no matter what the consequences might be, though they do try to keep new changes in their relationship secret.

These two certainly have sizzling chemistry, as well as a strong, soul-deep connection. Evan and Calista have a shared history and a big group of supporters, save for one very growly, over protective and irate brother. Calista is a care taker through and through, but has had to learn to stand up for herself because of four overprotective and rather manipulative brothers. This time, with her heart involved and so much at stake, she is going to be the one dictating and deciding what will happen in her life. Evan is a great dad with an adorable, sweet little girl who is more than ready to have a new female role model and hopefully future mommy in her life. Skye does manage to steal a few scenes in this book. I can’t wait to read more about Evan, Calista and Skye, as well as Calista’s brothers and their stories in future books by this author.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book.

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently finished Take Me to The Valley, and I have to say, it was a delightful read that truly captured my heart. As part of the Mountain Men of Whiskey River series, this book beautifully blends romance with emotional depth and a strong sense of community.

The story follows Detective Evan Geer, a character I found incredibly relatable. His journey through personal struggles while trying to find love again resonated with me on many levels. Kaci Rose did an excellent job of portraying Evan as both strong and vulnerable, making his character feel authentic and engaging.

Evan’s growth throughout the book was one of my favorite aspects. Watching him navigate his past and learn to embrace love again was both touching and inspiring. The small-town atmosphere of Whiskey River added so much to the story. The relationships among the townspeople created a warm, inviting backdrop that made me feel like I was part of the community. Kaci Rose has a knack for capturing complex emotions. I found myself deeply invested in Evan's struggles and triumphs, which made the reading experience all the more rewarding.

While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, there were moments where the pacing felt a bit uneven, especially in the middle sections. A little tightening in plot development could have enhanced the flow. I also noticed a few minor editing issues that could use some attention.

Overall, Take Me to The Valley is an engaging read that combines romance with themes of healing and community support. Kaci Rose has crafted a story that will resonate with fans of contemporary romance, and I’m glad I picked it up. I’d give this book a solid 4 stars for its emotional depth and character-driven narrative. If you’re looking for a heartfelt story that will leave you feeling warm inside, this one is definitely worth your time!

[Lisa H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh ya'll.....Ya'll!!! We have been waiting SOOOOOOO long for this book. This series has some of the most intense and satisfying moments that a series can have. When I saw people buy this as an ebook, can't handle it, then up spiralling to the have a copy, and then a SIGNED copy...then the world!! Its THAT good.

Evan has been mentioned in many of the books, being the town sheriff as he is. He never expected to get hurt on the job. As well as the woman he's always wanted, his BFF's sister Calista, coming back to town. Its like his body and mind are attuned when she's around.

Calista needs a change, so hence coming home. She is a nurse, and looking for a change. She's not MAD that she gets to look after the delicious snack that is Evan, and his bubbly little girl, Skye. I love how these two develop a strong, intense relationship. A man who lets himself be helped when thats always ben his job. You really good all that warm ooey gooey smexy vibes as they get closer and tip the line.

Evan deserves happiness, and Calista brings that, and brings Skye to life. He finally has the picture of what a family is like. While he deals with a raging made BFF, Cody. They both were scared of that, but ultimately it doesn't stop them. There is some serious fist pumped vibes as Calista finally puts Cody in his place.

This book lets us dive back into the couples we know and love on Whiskey Mountain, and see a different side to this Alpha men. You will eat this up like candy, and race to read ALL of them after this, if you haven't!!!

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kaci Rose delivers yet another heart-stealing romance, packed with big emotions, swoon-worthy moments, and just the right amount of heat. Take Me To The Valley ticks all my favorite boxes—reverse age gap, single dad, and brother’s best friend romance—all wrapped up in an enticing, small-town love story that’s impossible to put down.

Evan has always had a crush on his best friend’s older sister, Calista. Seven years his senior, she was the one woman he never thought he could have. But when she returns to Whiskey Falls, everything changes. As a devoted single dad, Evan’s world revolves around his adorable daughter, Skye, and romance isn’t on his radar—until Calista walks back into his life and reignites a long-buried spark.

I absolutely adored Calista. She’s the kind of heroine who gives her all to others, always putting their happiness first, but now it’s her turn to find love. When Evan, a detective, is injured, her brother volunteers her to help care for him and Skye. Suddenly, the chemistry between them is impossible to ignore. But with her brother watching closely, Calista worries about the fallout if she gives in to her feelings.

Their journey to happiness isn’t easy, but it’s oh-so-worth it. The slow build, the sizzling tension, and the undeniable connection make this book an absolute delight. Kaci Rose knows how to bring the heat and heart in equal measure, and I’d happily return to the mountains of Whiskey River anytime!

[Bexx · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Take Me To the Valley,” introduces us to Calista Stapleton, a dedicated nurse who finds herself moving back to her hometown. Prompted by her four brothers, who are preoccupied with managing the family’s beloved whiskey distillery, Calista returns to help her aging parents. As she drives back into town, she encounters Evan, her younger brother’s best friend. No longer teenagers, Calista’s feels a rush of new feelings as she notices how well Evan fills out his police uniform.

Shortly after settling in, tragedy strikes as Evan sustains an injury while on duty. Being a nurse, Calista is quickly volunteered by her brother to take on the role of Evan's caretaker. She nurses him through his recovery, and the shared hours foster an undeniable closeness. With each passing day and every moment spent together, Evan and Calista are forced to confront the growing emotions simmering between them.

I enjoyed the story but I felt that more time was needed to develop a deeper connection between Calista and Evan. They had a whirlwind two-week romance and their relationship progressed too quickly. The love story would have felt more believable by adding more detail and additional scenes to build the tension and allow their bond to grow more naturally.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m always ready to read a best friend’s sister romance and this was a great addition to the series. “Take Me to the Valley” is a romantic, heartfelt and sweet mountain romance.

Calista is back home in Whiskey River to help her older parents and the last person she was expecting to see on her way in is her brother’s best friend, Evan. Evan is a police officer and a single Dad to his daughter, Skye. It’s been the two of them basically since she was born but when he sees Calista, the feelings he had for her resurface. But when Evan gets hurt on the job, Calista who is a nurse, moves in with him to help care for him and Skye. And as they spend time together, feelings start to develop between them both.

This was a sweet and romantic mountain small town romance and I enjoyed their story. Evan is a great police officer and Dad. He always puts his daughter first and wants her to be safe and happy. I loved how respectful he was to Calista and never pushed her. Calista is a great woman and has a big heart. She was a wonderful caregiver to Evan when he was hurt and amazing with Skye. Their romance was a medium-ish burn and I loved the chemistry between them. They had their chance at the right moment and it was so sweet. I loved Calista’s brothers and I can’t wait to read their stories when they’re released.

[Puna]

Back of the book blurb…

He’s her brother’s best friend. She’s never had a thing for single dads or younger men… until him.
Evan
I’ve built my life around two things: protecting my daughter, Skye, and serving Whiskey River as a detective.
Love? It’s off the table.
I can’t have both—it’s not fair to Skye, and I’ve already been burned once.
But when Calista Stapleton—the woman I’ve wanted for as long as I can remember—comes back to Whiskey River, all my carefully built walls start to crack.
She’s my best friend’s sister, and she’s supposed to be off-limits.
But when I’m injured on the job and she steps in to take care of me and Skye, it feels like she’s exactly where she’s meant to be.
Calista
I’ve spent the last decade pouring myself into everyone else—patients, family, responsibilities.
Now I’m back home, hoping to reconnect with my family and start fresh.
But Evan Greer is here, too—my little brother’s best friend, the man I’ve always tried to ignore.
He’s strong, stubborn, and so fiercely protective of his daughter, it makes my heart ache.
When he gets hurt, and my brother insists I move in to help him recover, the fragile line we’ve been balancing on starts to disappear.
Every day with him and his daughter makes it harder to ignore the pull between us.
But he’s my brother’s best friend, and if this falls apart, it won’t just be my heart on the line.

[Sharon Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have so enjoyed every book in this series and this one was such a beautiful and heartfelt love story. Calista Stapleton has returned to Whiskey River to pick up the life she left years ago. Her family is there as is Evan Greer, who she had a crush on in school. He is now Detective Greer and lives with his young daughter Skye. Skye’s mother is not in the picture, but Calista’s extended family, including her brothers who own the Four Brothers Brewery, have always been there for them. She is eager to resume her friendship with her best friend Kaylee and is there when Kaylee’s abusive ex is arrested. The police were called, but when Evan is seriously injured, she renders first aid until paramedics arrive. When he requires home health care, she offers to stay with him to help with Skye. How will they be able to live together while denying the attraction that is developing between them? She admires how protective he is towards Skye, but will a relationship between them cause issues with her younger brother, Evan’s best friend? The emotions between them and the love they each have for young Skye make this a most memorable read. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

[Nina Diab · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Right now, I need to lock that way around the part of my heart that still really wants a chance with her, because it isn't an option. Not with her brother being my best friend. Her family is the only family my daughter knows. If something goes wrong, Skye and I lose that support in an instant, and I won't do that to my daughter.'

I loved this book. The Mountain Men of Whiskey River is my favorite series from Kaci Rose, and this book did not disappoint! I loved Evan, his daughter Skye, and Calista. The two of them have such great chemistry and you can feel the connection between them. Skye was so cute and innocent, and Calista really won points with her when she did her hair for Picture Day. You can really see how much Evan loves her and prioritizes her in his life.

I like that Calista is older than Evan, not the other way around. I could also understand the hesitation on both their parts due to potential complications from family as she is his best friend's sister, and if anything ever happened between them, him and his daughter would lose the love and support of his friend and his family. I was hooked to the story and it's easy to fall in love with these characters. 5 stars

[Dotti Elrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Take Me to the Valley
Evan and Calista
Single dad, brothers best friend, age gap

The last book in the series. It had a different feel than the earlier books.
Evan is not like the other “mountain men”. He’s not looking to live off the grid, and off his land. With his young daughter and his job in town, he bought his cabin as a getaway, somewhere he can decompress and hopefully, one day start a family.
Calista has returned home to look after her parents. (According to her brothers they need the help) She’s in between nursing jobs and is looking for something new.
On her first night in town she comes face to face with her youngest brothers best friend. Evan.
Evan, who is much younger and off limits. But someone who she has always had feelings for.
When Evan is injured on the job, she is quick to jump in and help. Moving in to help care for him and his daughter. It’s not long before they both admit that they’ve had feelings for each other and lines get crossed.
This was a relatively easy, drama free story. Two adults learning to live for themselves and not for others. Finally taking their happiness.
Evan was a great dad. His daughter Skye, was a cute addition to the story.
This book mainly sets up the spinoff series for Calistas brothers.

[One Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

🚔 Take Me to the Valley
🏞 Mountain Men of Whiskey River 8

Evan & Calista love story is a second chance sort of story. They known each other for years and they never crossed the line because of her brothers.

"When the universe pushed us together, I got a second chance to act on my feelings."

When the universe gives you a chance take it. You might have a happy ending like Evan, Calista and unicorn loving Skye. This is the perfect cosy up romance that will make you smile

Now Evan is a policeman and he is at the crossroad and we see him come to decision. The support he is surround by help him through support & love. When it came to the love for Cody's sister that's a different story...

"Despite what I might tell her. You hurt her and I will murder you and smile in my mug shot,” ~Cody

Don't mess with your best friends older sister 😅 that's just some safe advice. Get ready for the endless banter like this and everyone can relate to over protective siblings.

Sweet romance, best dad ever, fantastic friends & family and one liners.

Welcome to Whiskey River and get ready to meet gaint loving protective mountain men 🥰

Question who agrees that cakes are better than carrots?🥕🧁

☆MUST READ☆

[Tiffany Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Steamy Single Dad**

I’m excited to share that this is the eighth book in the Mountain Men of Whiskey River series! This story follows Evan and Calista, and it's such a fun twist with the best friend’s older sister getting involved with a single dad. It definitely adds a unique vibe to the series, and trust me, it’s just as steamy and spicy as the others!

Evan has focused on raising his daughter for so long that he hasn’t even thought about dating until he unexpectedly bumps into his first crush—his best friend’s older sister! Just as things get complicated, he gets injured during a botched drug bust, which really shakes things up.

Meanwhile, Calista has returned home after many years and finds herself moving in with Evan and his lovely daughter to help him recover. The chemistry between Evan and Calista is off the charts, and they quickly realize they can’t imagine life without each other.

As always, the story is beautifully written, keeping you engaged with a fast pace that makes it hard to put down. I can’t wait to dive into new books from this author!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer D · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was another great read from Kaci!!!
Detective Greer (Evan) finally gets his HEA!

Detective Evan Greer is a single dad who has just moved into his own mountain home, just close enough to town to get back and forth to work in Whiskey River (and get Skye to school). He has his best friend Cody, Cody’s brothers and parents as party of his found family, helping him care for Skye. Until Cody’s older sister Calista returns to town… Evan is shocked to see the beautiful woman she has grown into, from the young girl he had a secret crush on growing up. Out of respect for Cody, and because she was older, he kept his feelings secret.

That becomes very difficult when Evan is injured on the job and needs Calista (a nurse) to move in and help him recover. Will they be able to handle the close quarters? Will she be able to resist falling in love with Evan and his adorable daughter? Will Cody let them be happy?

This is a very sweet, pseudo mountain man, reverse age gap (only 6 years), he falls first, friends to lovers romance with a bit of spice.

Loved it!!!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[kymagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Police officer Evan (H) has only ever wanted to give his daughter, Skye, a safe, loving home. When they move to Whiskey River, he hopes the peaceful community will help them start fresh. But Evan’s plans for a quiet life take a turn when Calista (h), a compassionate nurse and his best friend’s sister, returns to town with a history of her own. Calista is determined to focus on her family and career, but crossing paths with Evan stirs feelings she thought she’d buried long ago. As their lives intertwine, what begins as a reluctant friendship grows into something much deeper. With Skye tugging at Calista’s heartstrings and Evan’s quiet strength drawing her in, the walls she’s built around her heart start to crumble. Just as they begin to envision a life together, challenges arise, from dangerous police work to family tensions and a small-town scandal, that threaten to pull them apart. It will take resilience, trust, and the support of their tight-knit community to overcome the hurdles in their path. Hot and steamy mountain man, small town, age gap, small town romance, exploring love, connection, family, belonging, healing, transformation, second chances, and resilience.

[RxReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This emotionally rich small-town romance captures the perfect mix of heartfelt connections, slow-burning chemistry, and the complexities of love. Evan, a devoted single dad and protective detective, is both strong and vulnerable, making him an irresistible hero. Calista’s journey of rediscovery and selflessness resonates deeply, as her nurturing side collides with a longing for love and belonging.

The reverse age gap and "brother’s best friend" tropes are handled beautifully, adding depth and tension to their evolving relationship. The story shines in its exploration of family, healing, and the courage it takes to risk your heart. Evan’s bond with his daughter adds a tender dynamic that enhances the stakes and emotional pull of the story.

With its vivid small-town setting and an endearing cast of characters, this novel is perfect for fans of protective heroes, single-dad romances, and stories with just the right balance of heat and heart. Prepare for a sweet and sultry ride that will leave you smiling.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Curvy Girl Book Nerd (Jen S) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Take Me To The Valley is
Book 8 of the Mountain Men of Whiskey River series. It's a steamy, instalove, OTT, reverse age-gap, forced-proximity, curvy girl gets her brother's best friend romance. Calista is a sweet and curvy nurse who has just returned home. Evan is a hunky detective and single dad to the adorable Skye. He is 6 years younger than Calista and her younger brother, Cody's, best friend. The story opens with Calista coming across a car crash and Evan responding. She is immediately attracted to him, although she hasn't seen him in over 10 years. Evan had a crush on Calista when he was in high school, and old feelings come rushing back. When Evan is injured in the line of duty, Calista ends up staying with him and his daughter, and these two can't deny their attraction any longer. Things got so hot and steamy. What will Cody say? Their chemistry was pure fire, and the ending was so happy after a little angst. There were times I wanted to slap them both silly along with Cody, but luckily, it all works out. I can't wait for Cody's book!! I hope he ends up with Kaylee!!! I loved it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nancy Koske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Calista is returning to Whiskey River from Chicago where she had worked as a nurse and helped take care her maternal grandparents. Her 4 brothers said that her parents needed assistance. As she arrives the night before she is due and she arranged for an apartment, she comes upon an accident and calls the police. The officer, Evan, is her younger brother,Cody, best friend. He had a crush on Calista even though she is 6 years older than him. Evan is a single dad with a six-year old daughter,Skye, since his ex signed away her rights before Skye was taken from the hospital. Evan has been investigating drug sales in the area and as the raid happens; he is shot. The home where the raid happens is Calista's best friend. Kaylee, home; Calista is there and keeps Evan alive before EMTs arrive. She is volunteered by Cody when Evan is released to stay at his cabin caring for him and Skye. Follow Evan and Calista's journey into a possible love. Meanwhile, Evan's drug bust case is threatening Kaylee. How can Evan and Calista help Kaylee? Who is framing Kaylee?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Korkoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Age is Just a Number -
This is a deeply moving reverse age gap, small town romance story, that took me on an emotional journey like no other. Eva and Calista’s existing luck in love is less than stellar, but the moment brought he, back into each other’s lives, an inexplicable spark ignites and they try everything possible to maintain a platonic relationship. However, Evan and Calista end up in a forced proximity situation, where their attraction for each other goes into overdrive and stolen kisses turn into steamy mind blowing encounters.

Unfortunately, Calista and Evan have to return to their real lives, but neither one of them has the confidence to communicate their true feelings. Nevertheless, it took a little girl pushing for what she wanted, for them to get their act together and get on track towards the happily ever after they craved. Grab a cop6 of this captivating story and indulge yourself for a few hours, as you will absolutely love reading this book and have fun doing so.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.