What do you think?
Rate this book
Heart Mountain #1
The Legend of Heart Mountain
A mountain with a legend.
A flower shop owner with a plan.
A hot mechanic who flips the script.
Nestled deep in the Canadian Rockies, the scenic town of Passion Falls holds a mountain very few know about. With it comes a legend that states at the stroke of midnight, under the light of a full moon, if you share a kiss on the mountain’s ledge, you will be bound to your one true love forever.
Most people think it’s a bunch of hokey pokey, but not eight-year-old Ellie Mills, she knows it’s true and she’s determined to prove it. What better person to do that with than her best friend, Gunnar. It takes some strong convincing, but he eventually agrees, and the two set off to test one mountain’s magic. Unfortunately, it doesn’t turn out the way Ellie hoped, leaving her heartbroken.
Now, seventeen years later, Ellie has another plan to rope Gunnar into, this one even crazier than the last. Once again, he will give Ellie what she wants, but this time, they’re going to play by his rules, and it will forever alter their friendship.
But maybe that’s how it was always supposed to be. Maybe Ellie was right and the legend of Heart Mountain isn’t just a myth after all.
***
This story is part of the Heart Mountain Series, a collection of interconnected small-town contemporary romance novels. Each book can be enjoyed as a standalone, but for the best reading experience, I recommend reading them in order. The Magic of Heart Mountain was the first to be released and serves as an introduction.
If you enjoy steamy, small-town romances with laugh-out-loud moments, a hilarious tight-knit friend group, and protective alpha males paired with sweet, relatable heroines, then this is the series for you.
A flower shop owner with a plan.
A hot mechanic who flips the script.
Nestled deep in the Canadian Rockies, the scenic town of Passion Falls holds a mountain very few know about. With it comes a legend that states at the stroke of midnight, under the light of a full moon, if you share a kiss on the mountain’s ledge, you will be bound to your one true love forever.
Most people think it’s a bunch of hokey pokey, but not eight-year-old Ellie Mills, she knows it’s true and she’s determined to prove it. What better person to do that with than her best friend, Gunnar. It takes some strong convincing, but he eventually agrees, and the two set off to test one mountain’s magic. Unfortunately, it doesn’t turn out the way Ellie hoped, leaving her heartbroken.
Now, seventeen years later, Ellie has another plan to rope Gunnar into, this one even crazier than the last. Once again, he will give Ellie what she wants, but this time, they’re going to play by his rules, and it will forever alter their friendship.
But maybe that’s how it was always supposed to be. Maybe Ellie was right and the legend of Heart Mountain isn’t just a myth after all.
***
This story is part of the Heart Mountain Series, a collection of interconnected small-town contemporary romance novels. Each book can be enjoyed as a standalone, but for the best reading experience, I recommend reading them in order. The Magic of Heart Mountain was the first to be released and serves as an introduction.
If you enjoy steamy, small-town romances with laugh-out-loud moments, a hilarious tight-knit friend group, and protective alpha males paired with sweet, relatable heroines, then this is the series for you.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 19, 2024
194 people are currently reading
506 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Lynn
30 books4,455 followersK.C. Lynn is a small town girl living in Western Canada. She grew up in a family of four children—two sisters and a brother. Her mother was the lady who baked homemade goods for everyone on the street and her father was a respected man who worked in the RCMP. He’s since retired and now works for the criminal justice system. This being one of the things that inspires K.C. to write romantic suspense about the trials and triumphs of our heroes.
K.C. married her high school sweetheart and they started a big family of their own—two adorable girls and a set of handsome twin boys. They still reside in the same small town but K.C.’s heart has always longed for the south, where everyone says ‘y’all’ and eats biscuits and gravy for breakfast.
It was her love for romance books that gave K.C. the courage to sit down and write her own novel. It was then a beautiful world opened up and she found what she was meant to do…write.
When K.C.’s not spending time with her beautiful family she can be found in her writing cave, living in the fabulous minds of her characters and their stories.
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author...
K.C. married her high school sweetheart and they started a big family of their own—two adorable girls and a set of handsome twin boys. They still reside in the same small town but K.C.’s heart has always longed for the south, where everyone says ‘y’all’ and eats biscuits and gravy for breakfast.
It was her love for romance books that gave K.C. the courage to sit down and write her own novel. It was then a beautiful world opened up and she found what she was meant to do…write.
When K.C.’s not spending time with her beautiful family she can be found in her writing cave, living in the fabulous minds of her characters and their stories.
Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
January 6, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
We all need a Best Friend like Gunnar!
🔥🔥
We all need a Best Friend like Gunnar!
🔥🔥
August 4, 2024
dnf at 49%
every time i don’t like a childhood best friends to lovers book, a fairy dies.
i was highly anticipating this one ever since kc lynn announced she’d be writing a childhood best friends to lovers story, unfortunately for me very early on i knew this book wouldn’t be what i was looking for.
first things first, why is a 24-year-old woman so desperate to have a baby immediately? specially one that’s still hoping to get married eventually. this whole plot would’ve been 100 times better if the fmc was 10 years older, or even if she had given up completely on finding a partner in the future. instead, we have a very young woman who still wants to get married, but is adamant to have a baby now and get a donor. make it make sense.
their emotional development was also too fast burny for me. he realized he always had extra feelings for her after friends and his guardian pointed it out and that was that. okay?
and like a loser, he doesn’t even talk to her about the chance of them being together for real. that didn’t add up to me and in any way. i know he never wanted to get married, have kids, and all of that. but the opportunity of getting a bit of that with this childhood best friend came up, who he’s been in love with forever, and we don’t even see him considering a real relationship? and what we have is him saying “We will be two best friends who get to fuck all the time for the rest of our lives.” well. okay, i guess.
with the incredible fast pace, i think i would’ve appreciated this more if it had been a novella/prequel. and honestly, there’s no need for it to be the first actual book. it already is pretty short for a regular romance book, so why not make it a bit shorter to be the series “introducer” and then we can move on to the other stories?
this book is marked by choices that i didn’t like at all and couldn’t find any sense into why it wasn’t different, so it could be a better story.
and all of that is basically why i couldn’t bring myself to finish it. for such a quick read, i felt myself dragging it out because i really wasn’t enjoying it. i’ll still read the upcoming books, and hopefully it’ll be a better experience.
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
every time i don’t like a childhood best friends to lovers book, a fairy dies.
i was highly anticipating this one ever since kc lynn announced she’d be writing a childhood best friends to lovers story, unfortunately for me very early on i knew this book wouldn’t be what i was looking for.
first things first, why is a 24-year-old woman so desperate to have a baby immediately? specially one that’s still hoping to get married eventually. this whole plot would’ve been 100 times better if the fmc was 10 years older, or even if she had given up completely on finding a partner in the future. instead, we have a very young woman who still wants to get married, but is adamant to have a baby now and get a donor. make it make sense.
their emotional development was also too fast burny for me. he realized he always had extra feelings for her after friends and his guardian pointed it out and that was that. okay?
and like a loser, he doesn’t even talk to her about the chance of them being together for real. that didn’t add up to me and in any way. i know he never wanted to get married, have kids, and all of that. but the opportunity of getting a bit of that with this childhood best friend came up, who he’s been in love with forever, and we don’t even see him considering a real relationship? and what we have is him saying “We will be two best friends who get to fuck all the time for the rest of our lives.” well. okay, i guess.
with the incredible fast pace, i think i would’ve appreciated this more if it had been a novella/prequel. and honestly, there’s no need for it to be the first actual book. it already is pretty short for a regular romance book, so why not make it a bit shorter to be the series “introducer” and then we can move on to the other stories?
this book is marked by choices that i didn’t like at all and couldn’t find any sense into why it wasn’t different, so it could be a better story.
and all of that is basically why i couldn’t bring myself to finish it. for such a quick read, i felt myself dragging it out because i really wasn’t enjoying it. i’ll still read the upcoming books, and hopefully it’ll be a better experience.
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2024
Sweet and Swoony
This was such a sweet childhood friends to lovers romance that is guaranteed to have you swooning. I absolutely adored both Ellie and Gunner.
Ellie and Gunner have been best friends since they were kids, and I loved getting to see their relationship/friendship progress through the years with the occasional flashback. Their bond is so strong and beautiful. When Ellie makes a decision and asks Gunner for his help, it’s time for him to face reality and either step up to the plate or step aside.
This book is sweet, swoony, and magical, and I devoured it in a matter of hours because I couldn’t put it down!! I cannot wait for the rest of this series.
This was such a sweet childhood friends to lovers romance that is guaranteed to have you swooning. I absolutely adored both Ellie and Gunner.
Ellie and Gunner have been best friends since they were kids, and I loved getting to see their relationship/friendship progress through the years with the occasional flashback. Their bond is so strong and beautiful. When Ellie makes a decision and asks Gunner for his help, it’s time for him to face reality and either step up to the plate or step aside.
This book is sweet, swoony, and magical, and I devoured it in a matter of hours because I couldn’t put it down!! I cannot wait for the rest of this series.
July 20, 2024
4.5 Sweet and Spicy Stars
Star Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 Steam Rating:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Okay who doesn’t love a childhood friends to lovers romance! I’m obsessed with them!
Ellie and Gunnar have been best friends since they were 8\9 years old, they are literally inseparable, they do everything together.
When Ellie makes a big life decision, that she wants Gunnar’s help, he eventually gives but only on his terms. (I’m being vague for a reason, I don’t want to spoil anything!)
The decision they’ve made has brought forth these feelings both of them have been ignoring but are now having to face head on.
There’s just something so amazing about watching to friends realise their feelings for each other. Ellie and Gunnar were a couple in every sense of the word with actually being a “couple” and when they finally become a couple, it was like all the pieces falling into place.
If you’re looking for something light, sweet but still has the right amount of spice and is a quick and easy read, then I definitely recommend this one!
Star Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 Steam Rating:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Okay who doesn’t love a childhood friends to lovers romance! I’m obsessed with them!
Ellie and Gunnar have been best friends since they were 8\9 years old, they are literally inseparable, they do everything together.
When Ellie makes a big life decision, that she wants Gunnar’s help, he eventually gives but only on his terms. (I’m being vague for a reason, I don’t want to spoil anything!)
The decision they’ve made has brought forth these feelings both of them have been ignoring but are now having to face head on.
There’s just something so amazing about watching to friends realise their feelings for each other. Ellie and Gunnar were a couple in every sense of the word with actually being a “couple” and when they finally become a couple, it was like all the pieces falling into place.
If you’re looking for something light, sweet but still has the right amount of spice and is a quick and easy read, then I definitely recommend this one!
July 13, 2024
Ellie is so far from expected or predicable, in the best ways! She knows what she wants, but she knows she can’t truly have it. So she decides to ask Gunnar, her very best friend, to help her. Not in an inappropriate way, mind you. Just…in the way that the most important person in her world could help, if he so chooses. And Gunnar breaks her heart with his immediate refusal. But then he stops and thinks. And his father reminds him who he is and what Ellie is to him, as well as what he will be missing. So Gunnar sets out to make a new arrangement. A better one. And if he has his way, a forever one.
These two are easy to love, I promise. Even knowing that Gunnar might slip up, or that Ellie’s reaction might hurt more than he’d ever expected it to, didn’t make them any less lovable. It actually makes them more human because who hasn’t been in an awkward, embarrassing situation? Who hasn’t had to suck up the hurt to make tings right? And who hasn’t ever wanted something so badly, they were afraid to admit it for so very long?
This series and town both have me hooked. The nod to another person and series I adored had me thinking I need a reread elsewhere. And the antics of Gunnar and Ellie’s friends have me wishing we had more of them already!
These two are easy to love, I promise. Even knowing that Gunnar might slip up, or that Ellie’s reaction might hurt more than he’d ever expected it to, didn’t make them any less lovable. It actually makes them more human because who hasn’t been in an awkward, embarrassing situation? Who hasn’t had to suck up the hurt to make tings right? And who hasn’t ever wanted something so badly, they were afraid to admit it for so very long?
This series and town both have me hooked. The nod to another person and series I adored had me thinking I need a reread elsewhere. And the antics of Gunnar and Ellie’s friends have me wishing we had more of them already!
January 30, 2026
2.5 stars.
I should preface this by saying that KC Lynn is one of favorite Indy authors. I’ve read everything from her and will likely continue reading everything that she puts out there. So this review physically pains me, but I have to be honest and honestly,this was a flop.
The story felt rushed and underdeveloped - the entire premise made very little sense. The characters were bland and offered nothing to hold my attention. The dialogue was overly cheesy. Everything about it was safe, and to be brutally honest… this book felt more like a debut novel and nothing like the writing you’d expect from a seasoned vet, nearly 10 years removed from her actual debut novel.
While I’ll gladly recommend literally any other book by this author, I would give this one a pass. I understand she’s been struggling with her mojo in recent years (a lot of authors had trouble finding their grove again after covid). I just hope this filler series is what she needs to get back to the quality work her readers are used to. No doubt she is talented enough to get there.
I should preface this by saying that KC Lynn is one of favorite Indy authors. I’ve read everything from her and will likely continue reading everything that she puts out there. So this review physically pains me, but I have to be honest and honestly,this was a flop.
The story felt rushed and underdeveloped - the entire premise made very little sense. The characters were bland and offered nothing to hold my attention. The dialogue was overly cheesy. Everything about it was safe, and to be brutally honest… this book felt more like a debut novel and nothing like the writing you’d expect from a seasoned vet, nearly 10 years removed from her actual debut novel.
While I’ll gladly recommend literally any other book by this author, I would give this one a pass. I understand she’s been struggling with her mojo in recent years (a lot of authors had trouble finding their grove again after covid). I just hope this filler series is what she needs to get back to the quality work her readers are used to. No doubt she is talented enough to get there.
July 16, 2024
ARC Review....
Let's start off by saying that I absolutely loved this book, but it was too short 😢
Gunner and Ellie just make you believe in love and that legends do come true.
There is no greater bond between best friends that flourish into love and will do anything for each other. Ellie and Gunner both have tragic pasts that make their bond even stronger than ever, and it also set to the test in the present. When Ellie asks Gunner for a flavor that is the altermet test of their friendship and his refusal is heartbreaking for her as she dreams about this.
He comes to the realization that he loves her and will do anything for her, and thinking of her being with someone else is just torture for him. He decides he will make her dreams come true. Ellie, never leaving Gunner, proves how much she loves and cares for him in the most adorable way.
K.C. Lynn has completely made me fall in love with Passion Falls 😍 and the writing was just amazing. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
Let's start off by saying that I absolutely loved this book, but it was too short 😢
Gunner and Ellie just make you believe in love and that legends do come true.
There is no greater bond between best friends that flourish into love and will do anything for each other. Ellie and Gunner both have tragic pasts that make their bond even stronger than ever, and it also set to the test in the present. When Ellie asks Gunner for a flavor that is the altermet test of their friendship and his refusal is heartbreaking for her as she dreams about this.
He comes to the realization that he loves her and will do anything for her, and thinking of her being with someone else is just torture for him. He decides he will make her dreams come true. Ellie, never leaving Gunner, proves how much she loves and cares for him in the most adorable way.
K.C. Lynn has completely made me fall in love with Passion Falls 😍 and the writing was just amazing. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
August 4, 2024
I usually really love childhood best friends to lovers but this just didn’t do it for me. There were some things that didn’t make sense to me. Like why is a 24 year old so desperate to have a baby through In Vitro? I think I would’ve enjoyed it more if the premise was her wanting to lose her virginity to her best friend and then there was surprise pregnancy.
Also it felt kind of insta-lovey. Like one chat with his buddies and Gunnar realizes he loves her, but couldn’t admit he wanted a real relationship? And the Maxine issue felt blown way out of proportion…I don’t know there were just too many things that took me out of the story and had me going “🤔make it make sense”
I think the legend is cute and there’s definitely potential to enjoy future books in the series this one just wasn’t it for me.
Also it felt kind of insta-lovey. Like one chat with his buddies and Gunnar realizes he loves her, but couldn’t admit he wanted a real relationship? And the Maxine issue felt blown way out of proportion…I don’t know there were just too many things that took me out of the story and had me going “🤔make it make sense”
I think the legend is cute and there’s definitely potential to enjoy future books in the series this one just wasn’t it for me.
July 27, 2024
Such a sweet love
Another in the Heart Mountain series by KC Lynn, it’s sweet and innocent.
I don’t know how often lifelong friends turn into lovers, but it must be a powerful thing when it does!
Another in the Heart Mountain series by KC Lynn, it’s sweet and innocent.
I don’t know how often lifelong friends turn into lovers, but it must be a powerful thing when it does!
July 20, 2024
This was a really cute, quick read with a little spice!
Ellie and Gunnar are best friends they have been since childhood they are each others person without it ever being romantic till Ellie ask Gunnar for help to have a baby.
I love a good childhood friend to lovers. This was so cute they were just perfect together. I loved the flashbacks we got of them as children as well. I love the Magic of the mountain brings these couple together.
I really don’t want to say much to spoil the book.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
Ellie and Gunnar are best friends they have been since childhood they are each others person without it ever being romantic till Ellie ask Gunnar for help to have a baby.
I love a good childhood friend to lovers. This was so cute they were just perfect together. I loved the flashbacks we got of them as children as well. I love the Magic of the mountain brings these couple together.
I really don’t want to say much to spoil the book.
I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
Read
December 29, 20240 stars.
Absurd.
Absurd.
July 22, 2024
You want a feel good, sweet, precious, heart warming love story between two best friends? This is your book! Ellie and Gunnar are so wonderful together! 😍😍😍
🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️
August 19, 2024
There is NO SUCH THING as being best friends with a guy EVER - and I will die on this hill!!!
August 14, 2024
Pfft. Pretty much lost me at 24 year old virgin who expected to be married with kids and a white picket fence... desperate for a baby to the point of ivf... instead of like, I don't know, dating?
The entire male population of the town won't date her because she's gunnars while he fucks about willy nilly 🙄
Either the FMC needed to be made AT LEAST 10 years older and a had a good crack at her happily ever after or the MMCs break through needed to be about her starting to date or something less dramatic than having a baby 🤷♀️
They are both so immature and dramatic. I just can't.
The entire male population of the town won't date her because she's gunnars while he fucks about willy nilly 🙄
Either the FMC needed to be made AT LEAST 10 years older and a had a good crack at her happily ever after or the MMCs break through needed to be about her starting to date or something less dramatic than having a baby 🤷♀️
They are both so immature and dramatic. I just can't.
July 24, 2024
Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars
This small town is quickly becoming my happy place. The characters, the feels of the small town, the magic and the legend of this mountain, and the way that this author weaves it all together so beautifully is truly incredible. I have loved getting to fall in love with these characters and as I’m sitting here writing this review, all I can think about is getting more with all of them. I just love the feel of this world and these love stories and what this author has so fantastically created.
The story is one of childhood friends who become so much more. Ellie wants a baby and she decides to ask her best friend to help her. Gunnar is taking it back by this proposition, but then he shocks Ellie with a proposition of his own. These two are soulmates, and they are meant to be. You know that from the very first moment you meet them and you will believe that with all that you have. I loved getting to see the two of them wade their way through the world feeling they have for each other. Getting to see them fall for each other, go along with this crazy, but meant to be planned, and find their way to the end they deserved was absolutely beautiful.
This author does the best job of just letting you be in the story. She invests you with these characters, she makes you love them so fiercely, and she just has you needing them to get that happily ever after. This story was one I just could not put down. It was consuming, it was sweet and spicy, and I just stole my heart right along with these characters. I loved the premise and I continued to just fall more and more in love with this town and the people in it. I can’t wait For this author to continue this series because I have no doubt I will continue to love all the rest of these stories!
If you are looking for a quick and satisfying read, that will bring you all of the romance and love and swoon, then run yourself to this series and this book this second. You won’t regret it! Not one little bit!
This small town is quickly becoming my happy place. The characters, the feels of the small town, the magic and the legend of this mountain, and the way that this author weaves it all together so beautifully is truly incredible. I have loved getting to fall in love with these characters and as I’m sitting here writing this review, all I can think about is getting more with all of them. I just love the feel of this world and these love stories and what this author has so fantastically created.
The story is one of childhood friends who become so much more. Ellie wants a baby and she decides to ask her best friend to help her. Gunnar is taking it back by this proposition, but then he shocks Ellie with a proposition of his own. These two are soulmates, and they are meant to be. You know that from the very first moment you meet them and you will believe that with all that you have. I loved getting to see the two of them wade their way through the world feeling they have for each other. Getting to see them fall for each other, go along with this crazy, but meant to be planned, and find their way to the end they deserved was absolutely beautiful.
This author does the best job of just letting you be in the story. She invests you with these characters, she makes you love them so fiercely, and she just has you needing them to get that happily ever after. This story was one I just could not put down. It was consuming, it was sweet and spicy, and I just stole my heart right along with these characters. I loved the premise and I continued to just fall more and more in love with this town and the people in it. I can’t wait For this author to continue this series because I have no doubt I will continue to love all the rest of these stories!
If you are looking for a quick and satisfying read, that will bring you all of the romance and love and swoon, then run yourself to this series and this book this second. You won’t regret it! Not one little bit!
July 28, 2024
I usually love K.C Lynn books. But this one was a flop. It was just so awkward and uncomfortable to read.
August 3, 2024
Cute… but
The story was cute but there was an aspect that I really disliked. I’m not a huge fan of stories where the H gets to have other partners but the sad sack h gets to be a virgin at 24. Supposedly he realizes he has been in love with her since he was 9 yet he got to “enjoy sex” as he mentions. We even get the thrill of meeting one of his adventures and so does the h, yet HE gets mad at HER for reacting poorly to that situation and she gets to BEG him for forgiveness for reacting badly. Like I said it was cute but that was hard to get over for me. The first story was way better because they both came with a past and it’s just nicer when one person isn’t waiting around like a loser while the other is living it up.
The story was cute but there was an aspect that I really disliked. I’m not a huge fan of stories where the H gets to have other partners but the sad sack h gets to be a virgin at 24. Supposedly he realizes he has been in love with her since he was 9 yet he got to “enjoy sex” as he mentions. We even get the thrill of meeting one of his adventures and so does the h, yet HE gets mad at HER for reacting poorly to that situation and she gets to BEG him for forgiveness for reacting badly. Like I said it was cute but that was hard to get over for me. The first story was way better because they both came with a past and it’s just nicer when one person isn’t waiting around like a loser while the other is living it up.
July 19, 2024
✨Swipe for tropes ✨
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
•Gunnar & Ellie
Heart Mountain Book 1
*I received an eARC of this book from the author and their promotion team
Growing up in the Canadian mountain town of Passion Falls, Ellie is ready for more. Despite being born and raised in this close knit town, she’s used to being alone. After the death of her parents, she was raised by her grandpa until he passed a few months ago. Now she truly is alone in the familial sense. When Ellie decides she’s ready to start her own family, and bring a baby into the world, she decides to ask for help from the person she trust most, her best friend, Gunnar.
Gunnar has known Ellie since he was just 9 years old. From the day they met, Gunnar knew there would be nothing he wouldn’t do for her. That included sneaking out as kids and sharing a kiss at midnight so Ellie could test their small town’s “love legend”. 😉 That night, Gunnar gave his whole heart to Ellie, he just never told her, and for almost two decades, he’s resided by her side…as nothing more than her best friend. When Ellie drops the bomb that she wants to have a baby, he’s blinded sided, but he knows there’s no way in hell he’s gonna let Ellie carry another man’s child. 🤭😮💨
When Gunner and Ellie sort through the logistics of her “proposal”, and decide to embark on this journey together, it’s magical, sweet, and absolutely heart warming! 🥰 It’s clear from page one these two have undeniable chemistry and it’s ohh so fun when they’re together! 🥵
Overall, I enjoyed this book SO much!! I was excited to dive into this story after getting a snippet of Gunnar, Ellie, and the rest of the crew in the novella! This was a short, sweet, friends to lovers story that checked all my boxes for a summer read! I adore @authorkclynn_ writing and am SO happy to be back in her world!
*available on KU
*original post on instagram @veronica.reads.romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
•Gunnar & Ellie
Heart Mountain Book 1
*I received an eARC of this book from the author and their promotion team
Growing up in the Canadian mountain town of Passion Falls, Ellie is ready for more. Despite being born and raised in this close knit town, she’s used to being alone. After the death of her parents, she was raised by her grandpa until he passed a few months ago. Now she truly is alone in the familial sense. When Ellie decides she’s ready to start her own family, and bring a baby into the world, she decides to ask for help from the person she trust most, her best friend, Gunnar.
Gunnar has known Ellie since he was just 9 years old. From the day they met, Gunnar knew there would be nothing he wouldn’t do for her. That included sneaking out as kids and sharing a kiss at midnight so Ellie could test their small town’s “love legend”. 😉 That night, Gunnar gave his whole heart to Ellie, he just never told her, and for almost two decades, he’s resided by her side…as nothing more than her best friend. When Ellie drops the bomb that she wants to have a baby, he’s blinded sided, but he knows there’s no way in hell he’s gonna let Ellie carry another man’s child. 🤭😮💨
When Gunner and Ellie sort through the logistics of her “proposal”, and decide to embark on this journey together, it’s magical, sweet, and absolutely heart warming! 🥰 It’s clear from page one these two have undeniable chemistry and it’s ohh so fun when they’re together! 🥵
Overall, I enjoyed this book SO much!! I was excited to dive into this story after getting a snippet of Gunnar, Ellie, and the rest of the crew in the novella! This was a short, sweet, friends to lovers story that checked all my boxes for a summer read! I adore @authorkclynn_ writing and am SO happy to be back in her world!
*available on KU
*original post on instagram @veronica.reads.romance
July 24, 2024
It’s been a hot minute since we had a new release from this author before the novella she dropped recently to launch this new series. But there’s a reason I will always pick up any new book of hers, no matter how long the wait between them. Bear with me for a minute, and I’ll explain why.
As a long-time voracious reader, I scooped my first Kindle Fire up when it launched and immediately started devouring ebooks. A few months later, I had foot surgery and had a lot more reading time than ever. That coincided with when indie publishing was becoming more well-known, so I invested in many new-to-me authors because their books were much less expensive than most traditionally published books. Some were massive hits, and some were giant misses. Shortly after, I stumbled upon KC Lynn’s first Men of Honor book. To say it was a big hit for me would be an understatement. Something about her writing resonated with me, and I’ve devoured each book of hers since. In 2018, I met her at a book signing, and she was just as genuine in person as she was on social media.
And that brings us to her newest release: The Legend of Heart Mountain. I can honestly still say that I’ll pick up a KC Lynn book anytime she releases one, no matter how long it is between releases. This best friends-to-lovers story is full of emotion woven into a heartwarming story. If you love the friends-to-lovers trope, do yourself a favor and pick this one—and the prequel novella—up today!
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
As a long-time voracious reader, I scooped my first Kindle Fire up when it launched and immediately started devouring ebooks. A few months later, I had foot surgery and had a lot more reading time than ever. That coincided with when indie publishing was becoming more well-known, so I invested in many new-to-me authors because their books were much less expensive than most traditionally published books. Some were massive hits, and some were giant misses. Shortly after, I stumbled upon KC Lynn’s first Men of Honor book. To say it was a big hit for me would be an understatement. Something about her writing resonated with me, and I’ve devoured each book of hers since. In 2018, I met her at a book signing, and she was just as genuine in person as she was on social media.
And that brings us to her newest release: The Legend of Heart Mountain. I can honestly still say that I’ll pick up a KC Lynn book anytime she releases one, no matter how long it is between releases. This best friends-to-lovers story is full of emotion woven into a heartwarming story. If you love the friends-to-lovers trope, do yourself a favor and pick this one—and the prequel novella—up today!
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 29, 2024
"My Ellie, My always and forever."
Best friends who are each others everything.
One who believes in the legend that surrounds the town of Passion Falls, the other who will do anything for his best friend. Even if it's to indulge her in something he does not believe in.
Only that night is when things change.
Gunnar & Ellie were the cutest couple yet that K.C. has written and I have read them all.
Ellie is tough on the outside but deep down she is soft and just wants happiness, how she wants it now though I never seen coming.
Gunnar is that cinnamon roll underneath what he shows everyone else but only for his best friend does he get soft on.
I was surprised that I like this story because it goes into that trope that I can't stand, except it really wasn't that at all. Planning is always the thing that sets it apart and boy was this one planned. By both of them.
These two had everything then again I never expected anything less since they have been each others best friends for a very long time. They know each other. They are both intertwined into each others lives for everything, well almost.
This was such a cute, easy going, romantic-esque, quick read for me.
That little snippet that we get of a certain SEAL, perfection!
For as a quick a read as this was for me, I loved seeing that there was more to Ellie and her flower shop, Gunnar and his garage, but most importantly we get more into their friendship.
I cannot wait to get more comfortable in this town and see what else the mountain has in store for this group.
Best friends who are each others everything.
One who believes in the legend that surrounds the town of Passion Falls, the other who will do anything for his best friend. Even if it's to indulge her in something he does not believe in.
Only that night is when things change.
Gunnar & Ellie were the cutest couple yet that K.C. has written and I have read them all.
Ellie is tough on the outside but deep down she is soft and just wants happiness, how she wants it now though I never seen coming.
Gunnar is that cinnamon roll underneath what he shows everyone else but only for his best friend does he get soft on.
I was surprised that I like this story because it goes into that trope that I can't stand, except it really wasn't that at all. Planning is always the thing that sets it apart and boy was this one planned. By both of them.
These two had everything then again I never expected anything less since they have been each others best friends for a very long time. They know each other. They are both intertwined into each others lives for everything, well almost.
This was such a cute, easy going, romantic-esque, quick read for me.
That little snippet that we get of a certain SEAL, perfection!
For as a quick a read as this was for me, I loved seeing that there was more to Ellie and her flower shop, Gunnar and his garage, but most importantly we get more into their friendship.
I cannot wait to get more comfortable in this town and see what else the mountain has in store for this group.
July 12, 2024
K.C. Lynn returns readers to Passion Falls for another beguiling romance. This time between best friends Ellie and Gunnar. Who both have tragic pasts. Ellie having lost both her parents as a child and Gunnar who was abandoned by his. Only to be taken in by gruff but caring former soldier Ryland.
And it's something that bonded the pair early on and one of the many reasons their friendship blossomed as kids and has stayed strong now they are adults.
But that friendship is about to be severely tested. When Ellie, a twenty-four-year-old virgin, announces to Gunnar she wants to be a mum and is planning to visit a clinic to undergo IVF using a sperm donor. Unless Gunnar is willing to donate and be her baby daddy.
However, Gunnar is shocked and dismayed at this news and scared that he could now lose Ellie for good. But her news and Ryland soon make him realise what everyone in the small town has known for years. That Gunnar has feelings for his best frrecommend .
So, Gunnar offers to be her baby daddy. But only if they do things the old-fashioned way.
Which puts their friendship and futures on the line....
And with plenty of spice, great characters, sweetness, and a little angst. This was an enchanting read and the magic of this small town and mountain has definitely worked on me. As I couldn't put this story down and I would happily recommend this story to all.
My thanks to K.C. Lynn for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Legend of Heart Mountain. 😊
And it's something that bonded the pair early on and one of the many reasons their friendship blossomed as kids and has stayed strong now they are adults.
But that friendship is about to be severely tested. When Ellie, a twenty-four-year-old virgin, announces to Gunnar she wants to be a mum and is planning to visit a clinic to undergo IVF using a sperm donor. Unless Gunnar is willing to donate and be her baby daddy.
However, Gunnar is shocked and dismayed at this news and scared that he could now lose Ellie for good. But her news and Ryland soon make him realise what everyone in the small town has known for years. That Gunnar has feelings for his best frrecommend .
So, Gunnar offers to be her baby daddy. But only if they do things the old-fashioned way.
Which puts their friendship and futures on the line....
And with plenty of spice, great characters, sweetness, and a little angst. This was an enchanting read and the magic of this small town and mountain has definitely worked on me. As I couldn't put this story down and I would happily recommend this story to all.
My thanks to K.C. Lynn for the opportunity to read an early copy of The Legend of Heart Mountain. 😊
July 19, 2024
This was a beautiful take on childhood best friends to lovers, and I absolutely adored the FMC! The Legend of Heart Mountain was a quick, easy read that had wonderful found family vibes and the most beautiful friendship between Gunnar and Ellie! This is the first book in the Heart Mountain series, but their is a novella that introduces us to all of these wonderful characters.
Gunnar and Ellie have been best friends since they were 8 years old, and as adults, they are inseparable. Ellie has always come up with crazy ideas, but the one she just presented Gunnar with may be the craziest. Will this solidify what everyone has always thought about them, or will this ruin everything and break up a 16 year old friendship.
OMG! I love friends to lovers, but give me childhood best friends to lovers I melt! I loved all the flash backs we got of them as kids. I loved the unbreakable connection that Gunnar and Ellie had. They always, always, always put the other first. Ellie was so feisty and loyal to a fault! Gunnar was protective, and the things he did made me swoon so hard! And add in adorable dog. I was a goner! I also enjoyed the little ledged of the town with the Heart Mountain. It pulled the whole story together and made the connection between Gunnar and Ellie so much better!
Thank you, K.C. Lynn, for the advanced copy!
Gunnar and Ellie have been best friends since they were 8 years old, and as adults, they are inseparable. Ellie has always come up with crazy ideas, but the one she just presented Gunnar with may be the craziest. Will this solidify what everyone has always thought about them, or will this ruin everything and break up a 16 year old friendship.
OMG! I love friends to lovers, but give me childhood best friends to lovers I melt! I loved all the flash backs we got of them as kids. I loved the unbreakable connection that Gunnar and Ellie had. They always, always, always put the other first. Ellie was so feisty and loyal to a fault! Gunnar was protective, and the things he did made me swoon so hard! And add in adorable dog. I was a goner! I also enjoyed the little ledged of the town with the Heart Mountain. It pulled the whole story together and made the connection between Gunnar and Ellie so much better!
Thank you, K.C. Lynn, for the advanced copy!
August 1, 2024
Simply Magical!
Book Review: The Legend of Heart Mountain by KC Lynn
Imagine a place where the air is crisp, the mountains stand tall and majestic, and every corner holds a whisper of romance. That's exactly what you'll find in "The Legend of Heart Mountain," KC Lynn's enchanting novel set in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
The story unfolds in the charming town of Passion Falls, a hidden gem nestled among the peaks and valleys of this breathtaking landscape.
What makes "The Legend of Heart Mountain" even more magical is the fact that I have actually visited the area where this setting is inspired by. The authenticity of the setting made me nostalgic for my own travels in the Canadian Rockies, where every view feels like a postcard and every moment is infused with a sense of wonder.
If you're looking for a heartwarming romance that transports you to a place of beauty and magic, "The Legend of Heart Mountain" is the perfect read. KC Lynn has crafted a story that's not only about finding love but also about promises kept. This book is a cozy escape into a world where love and landscape blend seamlessly, making it a must-read for anyone who believes in the magic of small towns and memorable characters I can’t wait to hear more from.
Book Review: The Legend of Heart Mountain by KC Lynn
Imagine a place where the air is crisp, the mountains stand tall and majestic, and every corner holds a whisper of romance. That's exactly what you'll find in "The Legend of Heart Mountain," KC Lynn's enchanting novel set in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
The story unfolds in the charming town of Passion Falls, a hidden gem nestled among the peaks and valleys of this breathtaking landscape.
What makes "The Legend of Heart Mountain" even more magical is the fact that I have actually visited the area where this setting is inspired by. The authenticity of the setting made me nostalgic for my own travels in the Canadian Rockies, where every view feels like a postcard and every moment is infused with a sense of wonder.
If you're looking for a heartwarming romance that transports you to a place of beauty and magic, "The Legend of Heart Mountain" is the perfect read. KC Lynn has crafted a story that's not only about finding love but also about promises kept. This book is a cozy escape into a world where love and landscape blend seamlessly, making it a must-read for anyone who believes in the magic of small towns and memorable characters I can’t wait to hear more from.
July 16, 2024
When being best friends forever is your comfort zone and you don’t realize that feelings have been subdues over the years because of fear of losing your person, it’s hard to know when or if crossing that line is the right thing to do. Elle and Gunnar have been best of friends since they were little and their whole lives they have lived around each other, from big life changing decisions to every day mundane decisions, so when Elle asks Gunnar for his help with a major life altering decision and he reacts differently it leaves her heartbroken. Gunnar doesn’t realize his feelings for his best friend have not been just friendly in years and this makes his decision to help her one that he knows he will do but only if they do things his way and trust me when I say everyone would love to do things Gunnar’s way. These two may have not realized over the years what their true feelings were but their bond is the strongest one ever seen and it creates such a beautiful and emotional story that was so easy to fall in love with.
July 19, 2024
I am always a sucker for friends to lover series and what better way that to start it off based on a legend of a mountain based here in the beautiful city of Banff! It is such a beautiful breath taking story to read and truly emotional to see Ellie and Gunnar go from being the best of friends to happily ever after. I love how the story goes back and forth between their present and past to show the dynamic of how their story started and blossomed. Ellie is a strong beautiful woman who you see develop so much in this book and Gunnar has some rough edge of not believing in true love but after that one night of their first kiss his belief starts to change and I love reading it! The legend of heart mountain is an amazing read and has made me want to go visit heart mountain on my next trip and I plan on visiting every site that Ellie and Gunnar shared! ❤️ KC Lynn once again brought beautiful love and joy into writing and I was so grateful to be a part of her arc team! Cannot wait to see the story continue in the series 🥰
July 22, 2024
THIS BOOK…. Ugh I love this book.
Ellie and Gunner have been inseparable since the moment they met as kids.
Ellie convinces Gunner to test the magic of mountain in their town. She thinks nothing happened but she doesn’t realize that Gunner felt everything.
Fast forward to adult hood and they still live in their small town and do everything together. When Ellie decides that she wants a baby but is willing to do it by herself with a donor… there is only one person she wants as the father. Gunner.
Gunner is shocked and taken aback by her choice and tells her absolutely not but when he realizes the thought of her having someone else’s baby wrecks him he tells her if they do this… they do it the old fashion way 😏🙃🫠
This book has the tension and the story to pull at your heartstrings. Their story shows how to navigate going from friendship to a relationship and working out the kinks.
Their love is one of a kind and the love they share for each other knows no bounds.
This book is a 10/10 for me and I’m so excited to see what book of KCs comes next.
But this is a book you can’t go wrong with. 💜💚
Ellie and Gunner have been inseparable since the moment they met as kids.
Ellie convinces Gunner to test the magic of mountain in their town. She thinks nothing happened but she doesn’t realize that Gunner felt everything.
Fast forward to adult hood and they still live in their small town and do everything together. When Ellie decides that she wants a baby but is willing to do it by herself with a donor… there is only one person she wants as the father. Gunner.
Gunner is shocked and taken aback by her choice and tells her absolutely not but when he realizes the thought of her having someone else’s baby wrecks him he tells her if they do this… they do it the old fashion way 😏🙃🫠
This book has the tension and the story to pull at your heartstrings. Their story shows how to navigate going from friendship to a relationship and working out the kinks.
Their love is one of a kind and the love they share for each other knows no bounds.
This book is a 10/10 for me and I’m so excited to see what book of KCs comes next.
But this is a book you can’t go wrong with. 💜💚
July 23, 2024
The Legend of Heart Mountain is such a sweet best friend to lover's, small town romance that follows Ellie and Gunner who are childhood best friends. Ellie and Gunner have been inseparable since they were kids and would do anything for one another so when Ellie asks Gunner to help her with a life changing decision Gunner is taken by surprise but realizes if he doesn't step up, he might lose her to someone else. Taking things past a friendship will help Ellie with her decision but will their friendship and their bond survive especially when Gunner proves he is far from perfect.
This story is sweet, and the characters are adorable with both Ellie and Gunner being so protective of each other. My heart melted as they went back into their childhood history, exchanged silly banter, and how they can't ever see themselves anywhere else but by each other's side. I can't forget to mention the right amount of spice these two characters have! I definitely recommend reading this book.
Thank you, K.C. Lynn for the ARC and I can't wait to read the next book in this magical series.
This story is sweet, and the characters are adorable with both Ellie and Gunner being so protective of each other. My heart melted as they went back into their childhood history, exchanged silly banter, and how they can't ever see themselves anywhere else but by each other's side. I can't forget to mention the right amount of spice these two characters have! I definitely recommend reading this book.
Thank you, K.C. Lynn for the ARC and I can't wait to read the next book in this magical series.
July 15, 2024
⭐️Rating 4.5
🏞️Tropes🏞️
Small town
Best friends to lovers
Soulmates
Hint of mountain magic
Okay so I loved mike’s and Hollis little Christmas novella but Elle & Gunner….aww they were so adorable!
Gunner and Elle and are best friends have been since they were kids! And I love a good best friends to lovers. And a life altering decision pushes them closer together!
(But that’s all I’m going say because of spoilers)
Back to the story! I loved The legend of heart mountain, it was such a easy and enjoyable story! It was sweet, hint of spice and really had that whole magic vibe of soulmates going on!
I love the characters! Elle and Gunner were so perfect! And it had a decent storyline that was also really interesting and so adorable!
I definitely can’t wait to see what else is in store for this series!
I highly recommend reading the series, if your looking for small town romance vibes with a touch of magic 💕
🏞️Tropes🏞️
Small town
Best friends to lovers
Soulmates
Hint of mountain magic
Okay so I loved mike’s and Hollis little Christmas novella but Elle & Gunner….aww they were so adorable!
Gunner and Elle and are best friends have been since they were kids! And I love a good best friends to lovers. And a life altering decision pushes them closer together!
(But that’s all I’m going say because of spoilers)
Back to the story! I loved The legend of heart mountain, it was such a easy and enjoyable story! It was sweet, hint of spice and really had that whole magic vibe of soulmates going on!
I love the characters! Elle and Gunner were so perfect! And it had a decent storyline that was also really interesting and so adorable!
I definitely can’t wait to see what else is in store for this series!
I highly recommend reading the series, if your looking for small town romance vibes with a touch of magic 💕
July 19, 2024
Prepare to have your heart melt into a big fat puddle courtesy of Gunner, Ellie and an adorable big dog named Bear.
First, we are taken back to their childhood which describes them as best friends from the age of 8. Truly adorable in every way.
Then, in present day, Ellie tells Gunner she wants to have a baby and needs his help, as her best friend, to be a sperm donor. Color him shocked and of course he initially reacts badly. Ugh. Men. But his adopted dad (and best friend) Ryland talks some sense into him and Gunner finally lets his guard down, admitting that his feelings for Ellie run deeper than just friendship. Ellie is shocked at first that Gunner wants more than friendship but quickly realizes she needs to admit her feelings too. Could they really make a baby the “old fashioned way?”
Ellie has a great group of friends who have her back always and I think we may see a couple of them featured prominently in future books?! This is small town storytelling at its best and I’m excited for future stories.
Ellie and Gunner’s story, with the help of the legendary Heart Mountain in the backdrop, is one of romance, hot, steamy moments for sure, and so much love. I devoured this book in one evening. You will too.
July 16, 2024
💫ARC REVIEW💫
Thank you @authorkclynn_ for my e-arc copy of The Legend of Heart Mountain 🥹 you are truly the best book boyfriend writer around!
I loved this story so much (as per usual for K.C’s books). A beautiful friends to lovers story with the spice and the heart tugging moments. One of my favourite things about books by this author is her FMC’s. They’re always so strong, confident and independent.
This is the second book in the series and I just know I’m going to be obsessed with every one.
Also, the little mention of Jaxson and Julia made me so happy. They’re the two that had me falling in love with @authorkclynn_ writing 🥹
What you’ll find in this story:
✨friends to lovers
✨found family
✨amazing communication
✨no third act breakup
✨swoony & possessive MMC
✨virgin FMC
The Legend of Heart Mountain will be available on all platforms THIS FRIDAY THE 19th!!! Get on my level and fell in love with Gunnar and Ellie with me 🥰
Thank you @authorkclynn_ for my e-arc copy of The Legend of Heart Mountain 🥹 you are truly the best book boyfriend writer around!
I loved this story so much (as per usual for K.C’s books). A beautiful friends to lovers story with the spice and the heart tugging moments. One of my favourite things about books by this author is her FMC’s. They’re always so strong, confident and independent.
This is the second book in the series and I just know I’m going to be obsessed with every one.
Also, the little mention of Jaxson and Julia made me so happy. They’re the two that had me falling in love with @authorkclynn_ writing 🥹
What you’ll find in this story:
✨friends to lovers
✨found family
✨amazing communication
✨no third act breakup
✨swoony & possessive MMC
✨virgin FMC
The Legend of Heart Mountain will be available on all platforms THIS FRIDAY THE 19th!!! Get on my level and fell in love with Gunnar and Ellie with me 🥰
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews