Hideaway Mountain Groom

by Eliza Rockwood

Can a few simple letters lead to the love of a lifetime?

Levi Beckett hopes so. A talented chef with a past shaped by his father’s struggles with OCD, Levi has spent his life taking care of others—often at the expense of his own happiness. Ready for a fresh start, he’s leaving the bustling city behind for a job at Hideaway Mountain’s newest resort. But there’s one thing someone to share his future with. Turning to Mountain Match, he’s searching for a partner who understands that love isn’t about perfection—it’s about finding someone who truly gets you.

Willow Thorne has spent years watching life from the sidelines, her OCD and anxieties keeping her isolated in the cabin her grandfather built. Tired of loneliness but unsure how to step into the world, she takes a leap of faith with Mountain Match, hoping to find a husband who will see past her fears to the woman she longs to be.

When Levi and Willow connect, their letters spark a bond deeper than either expected. But can two people who have spent so long hiding from life find the courage to embrace love?

Sometimes, the first step toward forever is just hitting send.


A mountain town, a promise made, and love worth the journey.

Letters from Hideaway Mountain is a sweet and spicy, fast-paced, OTT insta-love novelette series featuring double v-cards, lots of heart, and a satisfying HEA. Though all books in the Hideaway universe are interconnected, they can each be read as standalone stories.

Genres: Contemporary

84 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 12, 2025

About the author

Eliza writes romance that’s spicy, emotional, and a little bit gritty—stories about broken characters, hard pasts, and the kind of love that has to be fought for. The kind that heals. The kind that’s earned. And always, always ends in a hard-won HEA.

Eliza has been writing for as long as she can remember (with a creative writing degree to prove it), and her stories are heavily inspired by life in Colorado, where she was born and raised. Eliza lives in Denver with her husband and two dogs, and is probably either writing, hiking, reading, or plotting her next emotionally devastating love story.

Reviews

[Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely adorable 😍 I don’t think I’ve met two characters more perfect for each other than Willow and Levi.

The storyline is so cute and the characters chemistry together is *chefs kiss*.

You need to read this book if you love…

Small Town Romance
Double V-Cards
Shared Trauma
Arranged/Mail Order Marriage
Alpha Cinnamon Roll MMC
Reclusive FMC

[Juniper Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short. Sweet. Sexy. Inspiring.
Eliza strikes again with another heartfelt and emotionally intelligent read—this time with Hideaway Mountain Groom, a sweet novelette that beautifully blends romance and mental health awareness.

Levi is a chef who grew up in a sterile, rule-bound household shaped by his father’s severe OCD. After his father’s passing, Levi’s loneliness pushes him to try Mountain Match—a unique dating service focused solely on letter writing, no photos, no distractions, just raw connection.

Enter Willow. Battling OCD and anxiety herself, she’s been living isolated in her grandfather’s cabin since his death. Tired of letting her fears dictate her life, she bravely joins Mountain Match, hoping for someone patient, kind, and willing to help her take those hard but hopeful steps forward.

Their connection through letters is immediate and intimate, as they bond over shared experiences and vulnerabilities. But the question looms: Can Levi, shaped by his past, truly embrace a future with someone whose struggles mirror those of the father he lost?

This story touched my heart. The OCD and mental health representation is deeply appreciated and handled with care. Eliza never fails to weave important topics into warm, structured love stories that leave you smiling and a little teary-eyed.

If you're looking for a quick read that’s emotionally rich, spicy, and filled with hope—Hideaway Mountain Groom is your next must-read.

[Shalalah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Tender Love Story Wrapped in Hope, Heart, and Healing

Hideaway Mountain Groom is an absolute gem—a beautifully written, emotionally honest story that celebrates vulnerability, compassion, and love that runs soul-deep.

Levi and Willow are two characters you can’t help but root for. Both shaped by their pasts, they carry quiet strength beneath their insecurities. Levi is the kind of hero you rarely find—gentle, patient, and quietly protective, while Willow’s journey from isolation to hope is tender and inspiring. Their connection—sparked through heartfelt letters—feels intimate and authentic from the very beginning.

I especially appreciated the mental health representation in this story. It’s handled with care, portraying OCD and anxiety with realism and empathy, all while celebrating the courage it takes to open your heart. The fact that both characters are romantically inexperienced only adds to the sweetness and emotional depth of their story.

If you enjoy small-town romance, gentle cinnamon roll heroes, reclusive heroines, and meaningful emotional arcs packed into a quick, satisfying read, Hideaway Mountain Groom checks every box. It’s soft, swoony, and full of heart—proof that sometimes, love starts with the courage to write that first letter.

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

[Mafia Wife · Rating 4 out of 5]

He spent half his life caring for his father. His father’s host of anxiety disorders made it difficult for him to make friends let alone date. She has OCD and anxiety and meeting him on the dating site seems like it was meant to be. They exchange messages getting to know each other, deciding not to exchange photos or know what the other looks like until their wedding day. This is actually such a sweet story. You have the dedicated son who spent his time caring for his father and being respectful of his many anxieties. He becomes a chef, but outside of work he doesn’t get much time for interpersonal relationships. She grew up with the love and attention of her grandfather, but losing the last of her family has brought her own anxieties to the forefront. She really wants to meet somebody, but is scared that someone might not accept her. Someone except him who understands it completely. This was a great representation of a NeuroDiverse relationship, and how Support and understanding can bring the partners together in a healthy relationship. I really enjoyed this one. It was out of the box for the typical short story mountain romance. There was no angst just this quiet, courtship and understanding. And a little spice..

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

[Heather Dudley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hideaway Mountain Groom is the journey of Levi and Willow. The chemistry between these two characters is undeniably irresistible to the point where neither one of them could no longer ignore the feelings between them. The characters are fantastically written and phenomenally executed throughout the story. I absolutely adored getting to know both Levi and Willow as well as seeing their feelings for one another grow stronger as their story unfolds throughout the book. Hideaway Mountain Groom has charm, suspense and is a page turning romance. I loved reading this book to the point where I didn’t want to set it down until I read the last page. The story is beautifully written, exceptionally balanced and phenomenal executed by Eliza Rockwood. She continues to showcase what a fantastic author she is with each book I’ve read by her so far. I would definitely recommend Hideaway Mountain Groom for anyone to checkout and give it a read. I can’t wait to read more amazing stories from this author in the future.

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

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willow and Levi . . .

Levi Beckett was well aware of the difficult struggle with OCD as he saw his father’s daily struggle dealing with it. It shaped his own future as he reaches out to others to help them. Now he is looking toward his own future, taking a job at Hideaway Mountain’s new resort. And this time, he is hoping to find someone special to love and share a future together. He uses a match service to help him in his search. Willow Thorne has a similar background as she is the one who has suffered with OCD that holds her back from meeting other people. She also, like Levi, turns to Mountain Match to find someone who might understand her anxieties and still want to share a future with her. It will take a leap of faith to reach out to each other. But there is probably no one better than Levi to understand her and know how to help her acclimate to a new life with someone who fully understands her, has the patience, and whom she can love and trust with her heart. Will they give love a chance? Are they both ready to reach out for what they need?

[Rachel E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was glad when I saw this ARC become available, having read the ARC for book 1, I was excited to continue the series. That, and I like Eliza's writing.

This book is about Levi and Willow. They are genuine and so sweet together. Through the service "Mountain Match", they found a kindred connection in each other based on a shared personal or familial history in dealing with OCD; He cared for his father for yrs as he suffered a harrowing battle with the disorder, while Willow suffered from the same condition directly to varying yet a somewhat lesser degree. They really felt like two puzzle pieces fit together by fate in that she desperately wanted to break free and him having the skills and experience to help her and be her safe space as she navigated her growth journey.

Super short, beautiful read. 100% recommend.

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

[Amber Cheek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the fact that this story isn't just about online dating but also addressing problems and disabilities. I am happy that there is a story about this. There should be more stories like this. Willow having OCD and working on it is always a big plus because I heard it is hard to deal with it and to overcome it. I believe Levi was a miracle that entered her life because he become her supporter throughout this. It is amazing how understanding he was. Levi's father suffered the same problem. He had a rough childhood being raised without a mother and then being understanding about his father's OCD problem. Levi is a man any woman needs. Their love blossom as soon as they met and grew stronger the more they stayed together.

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

[A B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is a short and sweet romance between two people who each have a lot of experience with loneliness and isolation who are ready for love. The characters' self doubts and vulnerable earnestness make them each likeable and relatable. It was interesting to read a book representing relationships with people who have OCD, something I haven't seen before. I feel like the author handled this with the respect, compassion, and nuanced level of knowledge and understanding that real people seeking connection while struggling in this way also deserve and deserve to see on the page.

If you're looking for a low conflict, pleasing, and ultimately titillating read, you'll like this book.

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

[Shuvai · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hideaway Mountain by Eliza Rockwood is a charming modern mail-order bride novella that beautifully explores the connection between Willow, a woman living with OCD, and Levi, a man who has dedicated his life to caring for his ailing father. Their relationship blossoms through heartfelt letters, showcasing their emotional depth and mutual understanding. Levi's compassion for Willow adds a layer of warmth to the narrative, making their love story both touching and authentic. With its engaging characters and sweet premise, this novella is a delightful read.

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

[kristina_book_reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This quick and charming little story was simply beautiful and I read it multiple times. I enjoyed Levi and Willow’s story it was nothing but a fairytale come true. Obviously you know by now all of Eliza’s story have a HEA but these little quick novelettes do serve so juicy stories. Thank you for the chance at Beta reading this for you.

Willow isn’t just the girl she is the sweetest and so laid back. My Levi is prince charming and you will fall in love with these two within the first ten pages max. I cant wait for you all tok read it too.

[Jess Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing novellete by the amazing Eliza! Another Hideaway Mountain Match and this one was amazing, I loved how both Levi & Willow had similar backgrounds and how they were willing to come out of their comfort zones to try and make their relationship work😍 this book literally showed me that when you find the right person, they will accept every little thing about you! Your fears, your flaws, everyday struggles!
Once I picked this up, I could not put it down! I absolutely adored it, thank you Eliza🩷

[Angi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mountain Match brought Willow and Levi together. She has some issues with OCD and more, Levi had grown up with a father with the same issues. She needed his patience and strength and he needed connection and love. This book has steamy scenes and so much love and strength from a couple who got married even though they had never met in person. This book really transports you to see the way life affected Willow and all Levi had supported her to overcome. This is a really great book.

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

[WhatJo13reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

This is the perfect summer afternoon read. Willow and Levi’s story may be short but it is very sweet.

💚Shared scars
💚Healing connection
💚Arranged marriage
💚Small town
💚Insta love

Letters from Hideaway Mountain is a sweet and spicy, fast-paced, OTT insta-love novelette series featuring double v-cards, lots of heart, and a satisfying HEA. Though all books in the Hideaway universe are interconnected, they can each be read as standalone stories.

[Tashii Sainsbury · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Omg! I absolutely loved this novellete! Hooked from the time I picked it up to the time I finished it!

This novellete is amazing! Strong storyline, and strong characters! Eliza is smashing these books! LOVE it!!!!!

The storyline is amazingly written, and for a short story very detailed!

I absolutely love Levi and Willow!

Willow is so down to earth.

Levi is everything you need in a man!!!

This is a MUST read and it's a very quick read too!

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a tender, patient, steamy love story which was a pleasure to read. Willow and Levi were both loners who found the courage to embrace love. The character development was excellent, and matched the storyline perfectly.
Willow and Levi proved that love is worth the journey.
This standalone with no cliffhanger is definitely one to read.

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

[Krystal Kraft · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just really really loved this one🥹

Eliza’s characters always stay with me for so long after I read about them! Levi and Willow teach us how valuable it can be to find the right person for you. And- when that is accomplished- the things we don’t like about ourselves or the things that may hinder us in our daily lives become much more easy to manage with someone who sees you for who you are and is willing to help you along the way.

Mental health rep that I resonated with a lot but gently represented.

Amazing characters!

Amazing author!🤩

[Crystal Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Levi and Willow both struggle with some OCD and being socially awkward so they have come to Mountain Match to find one another. After sending back emails back and forth they have decided that they are it for each other.

Once they are together the attraction and chemistry is there without question. They connected on every level there is started their lives right away.

It was beautiful hearing them step out of their comfort zone and allow each other to find their love for one another.

[Noemi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Levi and Willow connect via the Mountain Match site. They share a lot in common. Both have struggled with some OCD issues. She has OCD while Levi's father battled with the condition. After communicating via emails, they decide that they should marry.

Will the attraction be there once they meet in person? I loved how these two connected via the messages and then afterward!

I enjoyed this read 📚!

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

[Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet and Spicy. ❤️
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was a super quick and super cute read but with the right about of spice. I loved the connection the main characters have over their shared life experiences and similarities dealing with OCD.

Meeting someone who can understand and relate is the most beautiful of connections to read.

The 2 month epilogue scene tho damn. Talk about knowing how to calm each other down and be there for someone. 🌶🌶

[Melissa Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 2 in Letters from Hideaway Mountain series. Tropes: mental health, reclusive FMC, chef, Mail order bride, and dual virgins. A sweet instalove novella with a FMC dealing with OCD. Good characters. Enjoy the writing style.

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

[Natalie’s_world_in_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

The characters - Levi & Willow, are so lovable.
You get to know their backstory.
Love how they met.

Love this little read.
It goes to show that when you find the right person they will accept everything about you! Your fears, flaws, everyday struggles.

Quote
I laugh again—really laugh—and for the first time in a long time, it doesn’t feel like I’m pretending to be okay. I think I actually am.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Talk about overcoming obstacles. These two have a bit to overcome with their difficulties. She has OCD and he understands that due to living with his father who also had it. He has his own stuff to overcome. I am glad they were able to work it out. I enjoyed their characters and story.

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

[Aimeereadsromance · Rating 5 out of 5]

my review!

This story just makes you
Realise how love is nothing to do with looks it's about connection
and a feeling and my do these 2 Main characters have that and all through letters they made a connection and fell in love.
Like always Elizas books never
disappoint I just love how they all connect to her other books and hint at new stories to come.

@aimeereadsromance

[Rocky Mountain Red · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for a quickie at lunch, this tape is full of all the soul-deep connection and compassion that make the best relationships last for decades. Perfect!.

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

[TJ MelRose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was adorable! I loved the honesty in the relationship. It's definitely something every relationship needs. Although they are exchanging letters before they meet, it feels like love at first sight and I loved it!

[Micki-D · Rating 4 out of 5]

There letter re so beautiful the way he loves every part of her she didn’t think any one could they are the perfect couple. This is one of the cutest story lines I have read yet for Eliza. Willow and Levi are everything they fit perfectly

[Barbara Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allow a morning for this sweet, contemporary, adult small-town coming-of-age online arranged marriage in Hideaway Mountain, Colorado, during April, featuring hitting send, OCD, nerves, anticipation, fear, and hope.
I had an ARC via Booksprout, and this is my voluntary review.

[Heather. · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! Levi and Willow!!! I instantly fell for these two! The bond they created in such a short time was incredible. I love how Willow and Levi were the missing piece each other needed!

[Jenn O'Leary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hideaway Mountain Groom is a very short, romantic read.
I absolutely loved Levi & Willow.
These two are both quirky and adorable. I loved this so much.