When Mike Costa left Misty Mountain to join the military, Shanay Williams was just a kid. Now, years later, he’s back after retiring, expecting peace, quiet, and a fresh start. What he doesn’t expect is for Shanay to be all grown up. What he really doesn’t expect is for her to get under his skin instantly. She’s too young, too tempting, too damn off-limits. But Misty Mountain is small. And Shanay is everywhere. As the town librarian, she’s right in the center of everything—including the library renovation project that puts Mike in her orbit day after day. She teases him just to see him scowl. He grumbles but still fixes things she never asked him to. The tension between them is impossible to ignore. Mike tells himself he’s too old, too rough, too set in his ways for a woman like her. Shanay’s done waiting for him to realize he’s exactly what she needs. The town’s already placing bets on when he’ll break. And when he does? He’s never letting her go.
The small Colorado town of Misty Mountain appears to be a peaceful, perfect haven. Beneath the surface, however, it’s brimming with secrets, love, and undeniable chemistry. Get ready for steamy encounters at the rustic Hollow Tree Inn, forbidden rendezvous under Whispering Falls, strangers with dark histories, and locals with unspoken desires. In Misty Mountain, love isn’t just complicated—it’s downright explosive. Join 12 of your favorite contemporary romance authors for this steamy mountain man series!
USA Today Bestselling Author Imani Jay writes sweet and spicy romance with instalove, instalust, and little to no drama. Just curvy queens who get claimed by their hunky alpha males. Whether it’s in the boardroom, the mafia, OmegaVerse, or with a forbidden twist, Imani’s stories deliver high heat and heart. Ready for your next dirty pleasure? Imani’s got you covered!
Wonderful!! This was a nice quick, short read. I really enjoyed this one.
Mike and Shanay knew each other their whole lives, he's her uncle's best friend. Mike left Misty Mountain and joined the military now years later he comes back. Mike now has a construction company when he is asked to repair the library. Shanay works at the library and when Mike comes she shows him what needs to be done. Mike can't believe Shanay is all grown up now compared to the little girl that followed him and her uncle around asking questions. Mike thinks he's too old for Shanay and doesn't want him. Shanay's uncle has a BBQ to thank Mike for helping repair the library, when he overhears her friends talking to her about her being a virgin. Mike is working late, when Shanay comes back to the library. When Mike sees her he pulls her to him and kisses her, then he pleasures her. Then Mike carries Shanay out of the library to his truck and takes her home. Mike carries Shanay into his house where he pleasures her then they make love. The next morning Mike draws a bath for Shanay and makes her breakfast. Mike tells Shanay that she's moving in with him and she gets pissed and walks out. Shanay doesn't want Mike telling her what to do, Mike follows her back to her home. Mike wants to make sure Shanay gets home safely, he doesn't sleep all weekend because she should be with him. Shanay slumps to the floor and cries, all weekend she doesn't eat or sleep. When Shanay gets to work Monday she hears Mike come in. While Mike's grabbing coffee at the Pine & Petal he hears a call come over the scanner that there's a fire at the library. Mike races over to find smoke fill the air. Mike races inside and finds Shanay slumped in the corner, he picks her up and carries her outside. Shanay apologies to Mike, but he tells her he doesn't know how to love her. Mike tells her he wants to hold on tight and not let her go. Mike kisses Shanay, and she tells him she's his. Mike takes Shanay to the waiting ambulance and she's kept overnight, he doesn't leave her side. Mike takes Shanay home and she tells him to stop at her place so she can pack a bag. Mike tells Shanay that she's his and they're doing this while they're eating breakfast. Mike helps Shanay pack up her apartment and move into his home. Mike takes Shanay to her uncle's place where her father and uncle are waiting. Mike tells them that Shanay is his, they asks him if he's going to take care of her. Mike tells them he will until his last breath. Shanay's uncle and father don't give him much problems when he tells them. After they head to bed, Mike tells Shanay she's going to marry him then puts a ring on her finger. Shanay's friends have a bachelorette party for her at the Elk Tavern when Mike walks in, throws her over his shoulder and takes her home. A while later, Mike and Shanay get married with most of Misty Mountain in attendance. Mike and Shanay head to the honeymoon suite at the Hollow Tree Inn. A few weeks later, Shanay realizes she's pregnant and tells Mike. Over the next few months Mike doesn't let Shanay lift a finger around the house, he even feeds her. Nine months later, Shanay wakes up and knows it's about to happen. Shanay calls to Mike and tells him it's time, then her water breaks. They head to the hospital where Shanay delivers a health baby girl. Two years later, Mike is woken up by his two year old daughter Mira who wants pancakes. Mike wants another baby so he makes sure to knock Shanay up. A year later, Mike comes in to find Shanay in one of his shirts. Mike can't believe any of this is real, he has his family. Mike never thought he'd have this, he knows exactly who he's living for. Mike comes to find Shanay at work, he wants her. Mike's not done knocking Shanay up, just yet.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Owned in Misty Mountain by Imani Jay is a sizzling, small-town romance that deftly blends passion, forbidden desire, and a touch of angst. Set in the quaint yet secret-filled town of Misty Mountain, the story follows Mike Costa, a grumpy, rugged ex-military man seeking peace, and Shanay Williams, the town librarian with a long-standing crush on the man who used to ruffle her hair when she was a kid.
Now all grown up, Shanay’s vibrant spirit and undeniable allure immediately capture Mike’s attention, even as he battles his own sense of propriety and guilt over his attraction to his best friend’s niece. Their chemistry is magnetic, and the tension builds as they navigate the delicate line between friendship and something far more intense.
Imani Jay’s storytelling shines in the way she paints Misty Mountain as a character in itself—a seemingly peaceful town teeming with hidden passions and unspoken desires. The intimate scenes are steamy and unapologetically raw, portraying a relationship that is both tender and explosive. Mike’s inner struggle with his desire for Shanay is palpable, and Shanay’s determination to claim what she wants makes her a compelling heroine.
The dynamic between the leads is electric, with the grumpy mountain man and the spirited librarian trope executed flawlessly. Readers will appreciate the contrast between Mike’s gruff exterior and his fierce protectiveness over Shanay, especially when danger threatens to tear them apart.
However, the book’s pacing occasionally feels rushed, especially when it transitions from slow-burn tension to full-blown passion. A bit more exploration of their emotional connection before diving into the physical aspect would have added more depth.
Overall, Owned in Misty Mountain delivers exactly what it promises—a hot, possessive romance with a dose of small-town charm and a side of drama. Fans of grumpy-sunshine pairings and protective heroes will undoubtedly enjoy this steamy read.
Expect intense, descriptive, and passion-filled scenes that are unapologetically hot, with a strong focus on the chemistry between the leads. The story likely balances steamy moments with emotional connection, making the intimate scenes feel both raw and meaningful.
My Rating System: 1⭐️: The book didn’t hold my interest and/or had significant issues that overshadowed any redeeming qualities for me, but generally not my cup of tea. Most likely did not finish the book. 2⭐️: The book didn’t quite resonate with me, and while my experience wasn’t remarkable, I did finish it. It had some redeeming qualities and potential but fell short in execution. Recommendable, though with some reservations. 3⭐️: Good read, but didn’t quite stand out. Still worth recommending to others. 4⭐️: Really enjoyed it and stayed engaged throughout. Would read the book again. Definitely recommendable. 5⭐️: Incredible writing that made me deeply connect with the characters. I was completely absorbed in the world and didn’t want it to end. This book stayed with me even when I wasn’t reading it. I'd gladly reread it and highly recommend it to everyone!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mike is back in town after serving in the military. He sees Shanay, his best friend's niece, who is all grown up now, and feels an instant attraction.
They weren't sure what to think about their feelings at first, but they quickly gave in to them, and Mike decided she was his! There are lots of quick, steamy scenes, and the passion they felt for each other was evident. We get to see a glimpse into their future at the end of the book as well, which was nice to see.
This book was super spicy and short with little plot. If that's your thing, then I'd give it a try!
Overall: 4 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Spice/Heat Intensity: 5 out of 5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (not long scenes, but plenty of them!) Main Characters: Mike and Shanay Type of book: MF, Fast Burn, Duel 1st Person POV Reading Order: Standalone Novella Title: Owned In Misty Mountain Epilogue: Yes Ending Type: HEA
*Possessive, dominant, and protective MMC *Eyes only for her *Age-Gap *MINE! *V FMC *Uncle's Best Friend *Breeding *No cheating or sharing
⚠️ 18+
*I received an early copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving this review.
Wow! Do you like your ebook full of heat? Well then you've got that and more. We are talking blazing hot. Mason is back and has his own business. He gets a construction job at the library and is totally floored and smitten when he sees his best friend's niece all grown up and so hot. Shanae has had a thing for Mason ever since she can remember. When he walks in the library her knees go weak and she feels like she's been zapped by electricity. The passion they share is unbelievably combustible and their chemistry is boiling hot. Will Mason and Shanae admit that they were made for each other for always? Can Shanae forgive Mason's overbearing ways and can she get him to see that she can make her own choices? Does Mason explain why he is is the way he is and does he get Shanae to accept that his love is so intense and unconditional? This extremely talented author has written one super hot 5⭐️ hit that you won't be able to put down. I highly encourage you to get this boiling hot winner. You'll love it like I did.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Owned In Misty Mountain follows the journey of Mike and Shanay. The chemistry between these two characters is undeniably irresistible and breathtakingly beautiful. I absolutely adored getting to know both Mike and Shanay as well as witnessing their story unfolding throughout the book. I loved getting that they have a happy ending to their story with them being happy together as a couple. I would most definitely recommend this book for anyone to checkout and give it a read. Owned In Misty Mountain is suspenseful and a page turning romance. I absolutely did NOT want to set my phone down until I read the last page. I found the story to be captivating from beginning to end, entertaining and an enjoyable read. Owned In Misty Mountain is amazingly written, exceptionally balanced and beautifully executed by Imani Jay. She continues to showcase what a fantastic author she is with each book I’ve read by her thus far. In my opinion, she creates and writes phenomenal romances that I absolutely enjoy reading. I’m looking forward to reading more phenomenal romances from Imani Jay in the future.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
He comes home to fight the biggest battle of his life...his overwhelming desire for her
Owned In Misty Mountain by Imani Jay is part of the multi-author Misty Mountain series. This is an age-gap romance between Shanay Williams and Mike Costa. They both knew each other when Shanay was a kid but then he left to join the Army. Now Mike has come home after retiring and is just looking for some peace and quiet. What he does not expect is for the little girl he once knew to now be a curvy, smart and beautiful librarian in town. Shanay always had a crush on the rugged and handsome older boy who would ruffle her hair. Now Mike has returned and may be older but is still handsome, rugged and very sexy. He is also a bit grumpy, gruff and fills her with desire. Shanay gets into Mike's blood and his heart in a way he has never experienced or expected. It is an overwhelming passion that is sparked and soon they will not be able to deny it and all that comes with an intensity that can burn them or set them free.
Obsessive, Intense, provider, protector can describe the the male lead Mike. Innocent, young, strength can describe the female lead Shanay.
This is an age gap romance, so prepare yourself.
Mike is back in town and he meets Shanay again when he goes to her place of employment to fix their roof damage. Mike does his best to look and not touch. But, he lost the battle days of crossing path with Shanay. There is no major problem, this story was very different in when the problem did arise. This happens like in their beginning because Mike was making moves and decisions without talking to Shanay. I head to remind myself that this a just a book, because I surely was wondering what small town a single woman need to go to meet a "Mike.".
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Shanay is the town librarian but she's not the same little girl he remembered. Mike came back to Misty Mountain after a long absence only to see Shanay and fall immediately under her spell. He questions her wanting an old guy like him but after her catches her checking out his abs. All it took was one shirtless encounter for Mike to claim Shanay but he went all caveman and frightened the woman off. He eventually calmed down after his heroic rescue and a clear headed discussion things went quickly from ask her dad to wedding in the park. These two can't keep their hands off each other! Shanay tamed the caveman side of Mike's ways but understanding his need for uber attractiveness. Touching and hot!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Mountain Men romance. Shanay is a young librarian living in a small mountain town. Since childhood, she's known Mike, her uncle's best friend. But now that he's back, she has a crush on him. Mike is a former military man returning to his small mountain town. Just when he thinks he can live a quiet life, he sees his best friend's niece again. Shanay has grown into a beautiful woman. While he struggles with his attraction to her, he finds himself doing work for the library where she works, and the time spent together only increases his attraction to her. Will Mike and Shanay experience a beautiful romance despite their age gap, or will Shanay's family separate them….
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It started with a scene that had issues chronologically... she goes up front and sits down, then shuts a door and goes up front. Other than that it was good. It probably didn't need to be quite so long. The chapters were short, and it covered what would normally be the epilogue in several chapters as part of the normal story.
I downloaded this because I downloaded another book then found out it was a series. Sometimes I like when a bunch of authors get together. Sometimes I don't. What I hate is when you can feel them advertising their other books by the way they write the story. This story did not seem to do that which I greatly appreciated.
When Mike Costa left Misty Mountain his best friend’s niece Shanay Williams was just a gangly kid. Now, working as a contractor after retiring from the military he is surprised to find how grown-up Shanay is when he walks into the town library to find her working there. The sexual tension between them sizzled off the page and when they take things further Mike is all in on Shanay moving in with him. After the fire at the library the chapters got shorter and seemed like quick snapshots of their lives over the next few years which seemed a bit jerky and like the author just wanted the book finished. 5-star sex scenes.
This story really got me and I enjoyed Mike alot (with his domineering, posessive streak). Shanay, well, she had a bit of growing up to do, IMO. The storyline was easy to follow, and the interactions between the characters were fun, realistic and, well, kinda steamy at times. 😉 Age gap stories leave rhe door open for so many problems, not even considering the plotline. How would they navigate the narrow and rocky path? Throw in being a close family friend and the problems multiply. They have their hands full for sure, but Jay does a great job of leading readers through their journey with ease.
I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
What happens when you take a possessive mountain man named Mike and pair him with young librarian Shanay? Smutty goodness is what you get! These two are fire from the jump in this novella that features a former Army soldier returning home to retired life. He falls quick and hard for Shanay who is initially put off by his possessiveness. She does initially come around though because Mike isn’t as hard as he pretends to be. I love an alpha with a gentle side and this quick and dirty novella has lots of sweet moments packed in.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Holy macaroni!!!!! (Edited for public consumption…i.e the ‘zon🤭🥰) Imani has done it again…. This one was so hot I thought I accidentally took a tropical vacation and forgot I was in the tropics wearing clothes more appropriate for an early spring in Maine🔥🥰🤣 Feral, possessive, primal, sweet, hunky, obsessive, sexy AF, all perfect words to describe Mike Costa…curvy librarian Shanay’s uncles best friend…his off limits, ex-military older friend….
Good lord this book swept me away…. On a wave of filthy, dirty, loving bliss🤗🤗🤗
10/10 recommend🤩🤩🤩.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Mike moves back to Misty Mountain one of his first construction jobs is on the library, where he sees Shanay again and is immediately attracted. Problem is, she's his best friends niece. Shanay had a crush on Mike when she was younger and is instantly drawn to him now. This story takes us through their relationship ups and downs, to the HEA. It would've been nice to have a little bit more foreplay with the initial meet up, we don't even find out how Mike removes Shanay's clothes.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Mike and Shanay had chemistry from the start. He thinks he is too old and seasoned for her. He starts doing jobs at the library, fixing things that needed to be fixed for her, when Shanay starts to tempt him. As bad as Mike tries to not take the forbidden step with Shanay late one night when he is in the library late and shirtless, they both cross the line. Mike is possessive, fierce, and loyal. In the end, they get married, and have 2 kids.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mike returned to Misty Mountain for the quiet and the feeling of normal after being in the Army most his adult life. When he saw Shanay for the first time in years he’s done for. His attraction is not one sided but he is her uncle’s best friend so he fights it until he can’t. They are so cute together! She’s just as taken with him and when they come together it’s sooo hot! Absolutely loved this story and their sweet as sin HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mike and Shanay are their own heat. I’m usually not a fan of the whole age gap genre, but Miss Imani has always been one of the authors that I love reading her age gap stories. I can really feel the emotions that ignite between the two characters instantly. Fair warning is hot and steamy and it’s delicious and you won’t be disappointed. And yes, I did need to use all those ends. You really can’t help but to fall for Mike. You want to love him you want to hold him and my girl she’s the lucky one.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Very sweet, sexy book. Mike and Shaynay were the cutest couple. Mike knew what he wanted and wasted no time staking his claim. Very short read but kept me entertained. Happy that the town and her family were all onboard with their relationship, the age difference wasn’t an issue with them. No drama just an wonderful HEA!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Trigger warning: Potentially offensive language used in excess. Mike is a contractor/fixer. Shanay is the local librarian. Tropes: Rescue, age-gap, small town, family friend, off-limits, virgin, curvy woman, military veteran, sassy heroine, HEA romance.
A special thank you to Imani Jay and Booksprout for providing me with an eARC book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is a steamy age-gap romance. Shanay has known Mike since she was young, when he would hang out with her uncle, his best friend. Now she is back and no longer the young girl she once was, and the sparks are instant between her and Mike. I love this book. It is completely over the top and sweet at the same time. An excellent short read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Loved the story. Mike has returned to Misty Mountain and when he goes to the library to fix the roof, he sees Shanay. She isn't little anymore and has curves that a man could hold on too. Shanay eyes Mike and the ten years of yearning doesn't go away. The book is full of temptation, over the top possessive man, hot spicy nights, and a beautiful ending. I loved reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mike and Shanay burn up the pages in Owned in Misty Mountain. With his gruff alpha cave man demeanor and her take charge attitude, they battle and banter it out in an intense and powerful dynamic. Shanay is great at standing her ground and not letting Mike walk all over him. Once they accept their feelings and act on their chemistry it is game on in some very sexy ways. This novella is hot hot hot!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mike is back in Misty Mountain after retiring from the military! What he didn’t expect was to fall for beautiful young librarian Shayla, only he knows he’s too old for her! Shayla is in love with gorgeous mountain man Mike, but he keeps pushing her away! She is going to show him that they belong together! Can they find their happily ever after? Another great book in the series!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ If you love fast-paced, steamy romances with instant chemistry, this book is for you! “Owned in Misty Mountain” is an absolutely addictive insta-love romance! From the very first page, the chemistry between Mike and Shanay sizzles. Mike may be a man of few words, but his intense passion and unwavering attraction speak volumes, making this story irresistibly steamy and heartfelt. I couldn’t put it down and can’t wait to devour the rest of the series!
No over blown drama or angst to stop Mike and Shanay from a good and happy life. Mike being much older than Shanay never became much of an issue, except at first when he tried to treat her like a child you can tell what to do. Once that was settled and the family approved, it was time to create their own family life! Let the love never fail to keep them tight! 💞
I enjoy everything about this book from start to finish. The way Mike was trying his hardest to stay away from Shanay but eventually was just like fuck it...masterpiece. the spice was delicious, the way he loved on her with all his chest top tier. We stand with daddy Mike forever and always.
This was a really good book. It is outside of my normal comfort level on the ages, but I've found a new genre. The author gives a great telling of how love can literally cross all ages. It has a great plot, character interaction and all of the hotness you want to read. I recommend this book be added to your library.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3.0-3.5* Quick sizzling age gap romance. Mike becomes alpha obsessive/possessive of Shanay with one look. Sweet but simple plot with him going caveman growly. Lots of steam and sweetness as he will do anything to make her his forever. HEA.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.