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Lyon's Den
When cynical journalist Joni James gets assigned to cover The Lyon’s Den—a women’s wilderness retreat in the Colorado mountains—she’s armed with sarcasm and ready to write the takedown her boss expects. No phone. No wine. No chance she’ll enjoy a single minute of this nature-loving nightmare.
But as obstacle courses turn to opportunities and scavenger hunts spark unexpected joy, Joni finds herself drawn to the very things she planned to ridicule—especially the retreat’s enigmatic and infuriatingly captivating owner, Kendall Lyon.
With each yoga session and mountain hike, the walls around Joni’s heart begin to crumble. Now she faces an impossible choice—deliver the scathing exposé that could advance her career or follow her heart into uncharted territory with the woman who helped her rediscover herself.
But as obstacle courses turn to opportunities and scavenger hunts spark unexpected joy, Joni finds herself drawn to the very things she planned to ridicule—especially the retreat’s enigmatic and infuriatingly captivating owner, Kendall Lyon.
With each yoga session and mountain hike, the walls around Joni’s heart begin to crumble. Now she faces an impossible choice—deliver the scathing exposé that could advance her career or follow her heart into uncharted territory with the woman who helped her rediscover herself.
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Published May 20, 2025
42 people are currently reading
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About the author
Gerri Hill
56 books1,540 followersGerri began writing lesbian romance as a way to amuse herself while snowed in one winter in the mountains of Colorado, and hasn’t looked back. Her first published work came in 2000 with One Summer Night. Many more romances have followed, with the occasional murder mystery in the mix.
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
April 27, 2025
This was a good fit for me. I love books with outdoor themes and this one was full of them. Joni James is a journalist writing for a magazine in Denver. She’s assigned to write a hit piece on a women’s retreat organization. Joni is originally from NYC and she’s a total city woman who hates nature and any athletic activities.
Kendall owns the retreat and her company’s mission is to encourage women to gain self confidence and their abilities for independence.
This was a very predictable book but I liked the character development, especially Joni’s growth. The relationship was a bit quick but believable in the way Hill wrote it. I would have liked more angst between the characters and more emotion from Kendall. The banter between Joni and Kendall was great. The daily obstacle course challenges were fun to read.
If you’re a Gerri Hill fan you’ll enjoy this book. Thanks to Bella Books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Kendall owns the retreat and her company’s mission is to encourage women to gain self confidence and their abilities for independence.
This was a very predictable book but I liked the character development, especially Joni’s growth. The relationship was a bit quick but believable in the way Hill wrote it. I would have liked more angst between the characters and more emotion from Kendall. The banter between Joni and Kendall was great. The daily obstacle course challenges were fun to read.
If you’re a Gerri Hill fan you’ll enjoy this book. Thanks to Bella Books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
July 2, 2025
4⭐️
Although Lyon's Den doesn't hold many surprises, it's a very entertaining feel-good story.
I loved the banter between Joni and Kenni; they were funny, and Joni made me laugh more than once with her sharp tongue. The description of nature and the outdoor activities were wonderful, and the competition between the teams was great too. I loved the outdoor activities, and I would have fun there. But what I liked most was Joni's transformation. How she slowly but surely came to love and appreciate the outdoors, and how she changed from an outdoor and sports denier to an outdoor fan.
The romance was a little quick, but still believable and sweet with very likable characters, including the supporting cast.
A story about how you can change your perspective and that sometimes you need a challenge to take control of your own happiness..
Although Lyon's Den doesn't hold many surprises, it's a very entertaining feel-good story.
I loved the banter between Joni and Kenni; they were funny, and Joni made me laugh more than once with her sharp tongue. The description of nature and the outdoor activities were wonderful, and the competition between the teams was great too. I loved the outdoor activities, and I would have fun there. But what I liked most was Joni's transformation. How she slowly but surely came to love and appreciate the outdoors, and how she changed from an outdoor and sports denier to an outdoor fan.
The romance was a little quick, but still believable and sweet with very likable characters, including the supporting cast.
A story about how you can change your perspective and that sometimes you need a challenge to take control of your own happiness..
May 31, 2025
4.5 stars
What Gerri Hill does better than most is tell a completely satisfying story without a lot of superfluous information. She uses an economy of words with short chapters that flow at just the right pace. I love them because they are perfect between longer reads or listens and you can count on them to be good.
Yes - she primarily writes books that feature the outdoors, a subject she is passionate about. But she never tells the same story twice. And she writes romance like nobody’s business.
She and the wonderful Abby Craden continue to be the perfect combo!
What Gerri Hill does better than most is tell a completely satisfying story without a lot of superfluous information. She uses an economy of words with short chapters that flow at just the right pace. I love them because they are perfect between longer reads or listens and you can count on them to be good.
Yes - she primarily writes books that feature the outdoors, a subject she is passionate about. But she never tells the same story twice. And she writes romance like nobody’s business.
She and the wonderful Abby Craden continue to be the perfect combo!
May 22, 2025
Lyon’s Den is another great novel by Gerri Hill. I loved the setting of the novel (no surprises there), but I also loved the element of humour throughout. Kendall and Joni's interactions are funny, and there were multiple moments where I laughed. Joni James, a wine-loving city journalist, is forced to attend a month-long wellness retreat in the Colorado mountains—with no phone, no booze, and mandatory team-building obstacle courses. She’s there under duress, sent by her boss to write a scathing exposé, but things don’t go quite to plan.
Joni’s slow transformation—from cynical and foul-mouthed to unexpectedly inspired—is genuinely satisfying to watch. Her interactions with her team are often hilarious, and I loved how the retreat and nature itself slowly chips away at her resistance. Kendall Lyon, the retreat leader, is calm, grounded, and quietly magnetic. The chemistry between them builds gradually and feels believable, with enough friction to keep things interesting.
Beyond the humour and romance, this is also a story about growth, connection, and changing perspective. It’s warm, witty, and uplifting without being saccharine. A really entertaining read—and perfect for when you want something that’s both heartwarming and fun.
Many thanks to Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Joni’s slow transformation—from cynical and foul-mouthed to unexpectedly inspired—is genuinely satisfying to watch. Her interactions with her team are often hilarious, and I loved how the retreat and nature itself slowly chips away at her resistance. Kendall Lyon, the retreat leader, is calm, grounded, and quietly magnetic. The chemistry between them builds gradually and feels believable, with enough friction to keep things interesting.
Beyond the humour and romance, this is also a story about growth, connection, and changing perspective. It’s warm, witty, and uplifting without being saccharine. A really entertaining read—and perfect for when you want something that’s both heartwarming and fun.
Many thanks to Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2025
Gerri Hill’s Lyon’s Den delivers everything romance readers crave in an enemies-to-lovers, opposites-attract story, especially for those who enjoy wlw romance set against a backdrop that feels as real as any character. With a premise that’s as playful as it is profound, Hill crafts a slow-burn romance steeped in flirty banter, authentic conflict, and meaningful character growth—all under the beautifully depicted Colorado wilderness.
At the center of the novel is Joni James, a cynical journalist whose snark and sarcasm are rivaled only by her reluctance to unplug and commune with nature. Tasked with writing a scathing review of The Lyon’s Den, a women’s wilderness retreat, Joni shows up with a suitcase full of skepticism and a secret stash of wine. Her primary focus is Kendall Lyon, the retreat’s founder, a formidable force who believes fiercely in the healing power of nature. Kendall has poured her heart into this sanctuary, and she’s not about to let anyone, especially a snarky journalist, undermine it.
From the moment they meet, the chemistry between Joni and Kendall sparks and snaps with heat. It isn’t fueled by surface-level sniping, though; it’s powered by a tension rooted in opposing worldviews. Joni thrives on the intense pressures of career ambition and city life, while Kendall embodies calm introspection, grounded in a sense of self and confident purpose. What makes this dynamic particularly compelling is how Hill makes their conflict feel real. Kendall sees Joni as a threat to something deeply personal, while Joni regards Kendall’s retreat as a silly detour from “real life.” Their conflict simmers with equal parts irritation and intrigue, making the storytelling highly engaging.
The romance between Joni and Kendall unfolds slowly and naturally, never relying on dramatic outbursts or manufactured twists. Instead, it is built through a series of quiet, vulnerable moments where defenses slip and true character is revealed. As Joni participates in group hikes, obstacle courses, and late-night conversations, her perception of Lyon’s Den—and of herself—begins to shift. Kendall, too, notices a change in Joni, and this subtle transformation affects her more than she cares to admit. Hill takes her time with this romance, choosing not to depend on a single grand gesture but rather allowing the love story to develop through a succession of small, emotionally charged interactions: sharp first impressions, reluctantly shared spaces, late-night confessions, betrayal, forgiveness, and ultimately, a reconnection rooted in mutual understanding and love. Their emotional journey is often subtle, frequently comical, sometimes heartbreaking, and always deeply human, resulting in a romance that feels genuinely earned and real.
What makes Lyon’s Den praiseworthy is its deeply immersive story world. Hill uses it as a narrative force to frame the romance. With its quirky rituals, fellow campers, and supportive staff, the retreat center becomes a catalyst for change, stripping both women down to their core and forcing them to confront truths they’ve been avoiding for some time. The wilderness becomes both a metaphor and a mechanism for growth: it demands physical effort, emotional risk, and complete surrender to all that cannot be controlled.
Hill’s gift for writing dialogue always strengthens her storytelling. The banter between Joni and Kendall is sharp, clever, and perfectly paced. What begins as verbal sparring gradually shifts to teasing and then turns to genuine conversation. These exchanges mirror the shifting tone of the relationship, moving from confrontational to intimate without ever losing their edge. Hill doesn’t just script flirtation and intimacy; she crafts discovery through conversation, revealing something new about the characters with each exchange.
The supporting cast is another literary device that cannot be overlooked. The other women at the retreat add humor, insight, and emotional depth, serving as both mirrors and provocateurs for Joni and Kendall. Hill takes care to ensure they are not just filler characters; she uses them to reflect the shifts happening in Joni and Kendall, pushing the women to reconsider their assumptions and adapt accordingly. On top of that, Hill expertly uses the subplot involving Joni’s damning exposé to supply moral tension, enriching the narrative as well. All of these choices make the storytelling not only engaging but also multidimensional.
Final remarks…
Lyon’s Den by Gerri Hill is a beautifully layered romance that neatly balances charm with introspection, creating a story that stays with readers. They will be struck by the quiet, stubborn hope that Hill threads through Joni and Kendall’s journey, making it tender and heartfelt. She doesn’t rush her leading ladies into love; she lets them peel back their vulnerabilities in their own time, reminding everyone that real, enduring connection requires risk, but that’s where the magic of romance lives.
Strengths…
Strong, charismatic opposites as leads
A vivid, immersive setting that works to shape the story
Well-written, richly layered enemies-to-lovers, opposites-attract storyline
Dynamic character growth
Neatly scripted subplots with interesting secondary characters
At the center of the novel is Joni James, a cynical journalist whose snark and sarcasm are rivaled only by her reluctance to unplug and commune with nature. Tasked with writing a scathing review of The Lyon’s Den, a women’s wilderness retreat, Joni shows up with a suitcase full of skepticism and a secret stash of wine. Her primary focus is Kendall Lyon, the retreat’s founder, a formidable force who believes fiercely in the healing power of nature. Kendall has poured her heart into this sanctuary, and she’s not about to let anyone, especially a snarky journalist, undermine it.
From the moment they meet, the chemistry between Joni and Kendall sparks and snaps with heat. It isn’t fueled by surface-level sniping, though; it’s powered by a tension rooted in opposing worldviews. Joni thrives on the intense pressures of career ambition and city life, while Kendall embodies calm introspection, grounded in a sense of self and confident purpose. What makes this dynamic particularly compelling is how Hill makes their conflict feel real. Kendall sees Joni as a threat to something deeply personal, while Joni regards Kendall’s retreat as a silly detour from “real life.” Their conflict simmers with equal parts irritation and intrigue, making the storytelling highly engaging.
The romance between Joni and Kendall unfolds slowly and naturally, never relying on dramatic outbursts or manufactured twists. Instead, it is built through a series of quiet, vulnerable moments where defenses slip and true character is revealed. As Joni participates in group hikes, obstacle courses, and late-night conversations, her perception of Lyon’s Den—and of herself—begins to shift. Kendall, too, notices a change in Joni, and this subtle transformation affects her more than she cares to admit. Hill takes her time with this romance, choosing not to depend on a single grand gesture but rather allowing the love story to develop through a succession of small, emotionally charged interactions: sharp first impressions, reluctantly shared spaces, late-night confessions, betrayal, forgiveness, and ultimately, a reconnection rooted in mutual understanding and love. Their emotional journey is often subtle, frequently comical, sometimes heartbreaking, and always deeply human, resulting in a romance that feels genuinely earned and real.
What makes Lyon’s Den praiseworthy is its deeply immersive story world. Hill uses it as a narrative force to frame the romance. With its quirky rituals, fellow campers, and supportive staff, the retreat center becomes a catalyst for change, stripping both women down to their core and forcing them to confront truths they’ve been avoiding for some time. The wilderness becomes both a metaphor and a mechanism for growth: it demands physical effort, emotional risk, and complete surrender to all that cannot be controlled.
Hill’s gift for writing dialogue always strengthens her storytelling. The banter between Joni and Kendall is sharp, clever, and perfectly paced. What begins as verbal sparring gradually shifts to teasing and then turns to genuine conversation. These exchanges mirror the shifting tone of the relationship, moving from confrontational to intimate without ever losing their edge. Hill doesn’t just script flirtation and intimacy; she crafts discovery through conversation, revealing something new about the characters with each exchange.
The supporting cast is another literary device that cannot be overlooked. The other women at the retreat add humor, insight, and emotional depth, serving as both mirrors and provocateurs for Joni and Kendall. Hill takes care to ensure they are not just filler characters; she uses them to reflect the shifts happening in Joni and Kendall, pushing the women to reconsider their assumptions and adapt accordingly. On top of that, Hill expertly uses the subplot involving Joni’s damning exposé to supply moral tension, enriching the narrative as well. All of these choices make the storytelling not only engaging but also multidimensional.
Final remarks…
Lyon’s Den by Gerri Hill is a beautifully layered romance that neatly balances charm with introspection, creating a story that stays with readers. They will be struck by the quiet, stubborn hope that Hill threads through Joni and Kendall’s journey, making it tender and heartfelt. She doesn’t rush her leading ladies into love; she lets them peel back their vulnerabilities in their own time, reminding everyone that real, enduring connection requires risk, but that’s where the magic of romance lives.
Strengths…
Strong, charismatic opposites as leads
A vivid, immersive setting that works to shape the story
Well-written, richly layered enemies-to-lovers, opposites-attract storyline
Dynamic character growth
Neatly scripted subplots with interesting secondary characters
June 20, 2025
3 stars
I tried really hard to like this book. I really did. But when you hate one of the MCs, it's hard. And I loathe Joni. I get not liking sports, outdoors etc. I do not get planning on tanking someone's livehood with lies, just because you don't like what said business offers and your boss is getting divorced. Ever heard of journalistic integrity?
Granted, she got better throughout the book. But not enough for me to see her as Kenni's love interest, that won't do more damage than good.
I wasn't invested in the relationship. On the opposite, I hoped it won't happen for most of the book. Not great for a romance book.
But it was well written.
I hated some characters for their choices, not the author for writing them making said choices. That counts for something, at least as far as writing quality goes.
I tried really hard to like this book. I really did. But when you hate one of the MCs, it's hard. And I loathe Joni. I get not liking sports, outdoors etc. I do not get planning on tanking someone's livehood with lies, just because you don't like what said business offers and your boss is getting divorced. Ever heard of journalistic integrity?
Granted, she got better throughout the book. But not enough for me to see her as Kenni's love interest, that won't do more damage than good.
I wasn't invested in the relationship. On the opposite, I hoped it won't happen for most of the book. Not great for a romance book.
But it was well written.
I hated some characters for their choices, not the author for writing them making said choices. That counts for something, at least as far as writing quality goes.
July 17, 2025
I found it to be 40-50% detailed descriptions of obstacle courses...if you are an american ninja warrior superfan you may have a better time with this one than I did.
April 27, 2025
would like to thank bella books for letting me read this awesome book
i found this book so entertaining that at times i was laughing out loud....
joni james is on assignment she has to spend a month on a retreat and write up a scathing report, she is so not into mountains or team work or any sort of exercise, so being asked to go and without her daily wine or phone was going to be so hard for her
of course she would be caught smuggling in her wine and her days just got better and better after that with each maddening exercise they had to do... especially the awesome alarm call they had to wake them every morning
but as joni attempted each obstacle course she started to feel herself changing and looked forward to each challenge plus her team were starting to pull together and win some of the challenges... but she still had her potty mouth
she could see and understand kendall lyons aka kennie dream and understand what her real reasons were in starting this retreat...
if only her boss hadnt sent her to trash the place....
what an entertaining read.... havent read anything this funny in ages looking forward to reading more from this author
i found this book so entertaining that at times i was laughing out loud....
joni james is on assignment she has to spend a month on a retreat and write up a scathing report, she is so not into mountains or team work or any sort of exercise, so being asked to go and without her daily wine or phone was going to be so hard for her
of course she would be caught smuggling in her wine and her days just got better and better after that with each maddening exercise they had to do... especially the awesome alarm call they had to wake them every morning
but as joni attempted each obstacle course she started to feel herself changing and looked forward to each challenge plus her team were starting to pull together and win some of the challenges... but she still had her potty mouth
she could see and understand kendall lyons aka kennie dream and understand what her real reasons were in starting this retreat...
if only her boss hadnt sent her to trash the place....
what an entertaining read.... havent read anything this funny in ages looking forward to reading more from this author
August 20, 2025
Soft stuff
I am used to Gerri Hill's writing style that I know when I do not feel in the beginning, it is definitely because of my mood and not her. And yes, I know this because I have read all of Gerri Hill's books over the past 10 years, so I have this understanding of how her work makes me feel.
I loved this baby, more than I did the one before. I loved the joy of this one, especially how it was empowering to the women. The nature of the work and descriptions had me doing some yoga poses, I tried doing that cross arms and legs and sit then stand, and I couldn't like damn. The book also reminded me of The Target - though that was a thriller with one hell of a twist/revelation at the end [definitely recommend].
I liked this one a little extra because of the swearing, smiles and giggles that it had out of me, which reminded me of Robin Alexander, I hope she is okay.
I am used to Gerri Hill's writing style that I know when I do not feel in the beginning, it is definitely because of my mood and not her. And yes, I know this because I have read all of Gerri Hill's books over the past 10 years, so I have this understanding of how her work makes me feel.
I loved this baby, more than I did the one before. I loved the joy of this one, especially how it was empowering to the women. The nature of the work and descriptions had me doing some yoga poses, I tried doing that cross arms and legs and sit then stand, and I couldn't like damn. The book also reminded me of The Target - though that was a thriller with one hell of a twist/revelation at the end [definitely recommend].
I liked this one a little extra because of the swearing, smiles and giggles that it had out of me, which reminded me of Robin Alexander, I hope she is okay.
May 14, 2025
A new Gerri Hill story to binge in a night or two? Yes, please! Personally, that’s all I need – no further details are required. Hill is a sapphic author who ALWAYS delivers the goods, and Lyon’s Den is no exception.
When Joni is sent to the mountains by her boss to write an article trashing Lyon’s Den, she is certain she can get it done with minimal effort over a few days. No way in hell is she staying for the entire month. Kenni, the owner of the retreat, has other idea’s though.
Through not so gentle persuasion, some playful banter, and plenty of flirting, Keni has Joni joining in and even leading her team to more than one victory. Add that to the morning grounding rituals, and Joni finds herself wandering what she is really missing out on by being away from her friends and the city she was sure she needed to survive.
As Joni and Keni slowly push each other’s boundaries, both women find it impossible not to lower their walls, their carefully constructed views of the world crumbling under the weight of curiosity and desire they find in each other.
Lyon’s Den is a journey that two women begin separately, only to find they need each other to complete it. There is sexual tension, gorgeous quotes, and laugh out loud moments. The steady incline Hall takes the reader on is interrupted by a little loathing, some nosy would-be friends, and the need to hold onto what is familiar. In other words, there is likely something within these pages and the characters that will resonate with us all.
I received an ARC from Bella Books and am leaving a voluntary review.
When Joni is sent to the mountains by her boss to write an article trashing Lyon’s Den, she is certain she can get it done with minimal effort over a few days. No way in hell is she staying for the entire month. Kenni, the owner of the retreat, has other idea’s though.
Through not so gentle persuasion, some playful banter, and plenty of flirting, Keni has Joni joining in and even leading her team to more than one victory. Add that to the morning grounding rituals, and Joni finds herself wandering what she is really missing out on by being away from her friends and the city she was sure she needed to survive.
As Joni and Keni slowly push each other’s boundaries, both women find it impossible not to lower their walls, their carefully constructed views of the world crumbling under the weight of curiosity and desire they find in each other.
Lyon’s Den is a journey that two women begin separately, only to find they need each other to complete it. There is sexual tension, gorgeous quotes, and laugh out loud moments. The steady incline Hall takes the reader on is interrupted by a little loathing, some nosy would-be friends, and the need to hold onto what is familiar. In other words, there is likely something within these pages and the characters that will resonate with us all.
I received an ARC from Bella Books and am leaving a voluntary review.
April 29, 2025
“The mountains are calling, and I must go.” —John Muir
That may have been true for John Muir, but not for Joni James, the New York girl who preferred the concrete streets of NY, now living in Denver and working for Mountain Life Magazine. Her assignment was to book a month at the Lyon’s Den Retreat and write an inflammatory article totally trashing the experience. That’s because her boss, Mr. Turnbull, was angry that his wife had come home from her time at the retreat a completely changed woman, cut her hair, started yoga, stopped drinking and filed for divorce. He was outraged and thought the place was brain-washing the women.
I’ve read so many wonderful books by Gerri Hill and, at first, this reminded me of her 2007 book, The Target, about the group of older, overweight ladies on a hiking and camping adventure. However, the participants of this retreat were very wealthy women who were happy on the outside but miserable on the inside, seeking a re-boot. Many had married for money, but not for love, and if you’re not happy in your life, change it, because life is too short. Their stories were both humorous and enlightening.
Joni balked and screamed at the activities she was required to do, such as obstacle courses, rope climbing, hiking, meditation, yoga and working out in the gym. About ready to quit and go home, she adapted, got into the flow, surprised herself at what she could accomplish, and became a leader. Sparks also began to fly as her team leader was the owner of the retreat, Kendall “Kenni” Lyon, whose positive and uplifting belief was time spent among the trees is never wasted time. The bantering between them was adorable, as she pushed and encouraged Joni.
This was a nice slow burn. The glances, the stares and the innocent flirting made this a romantic book. It was truly a delightful story with only light angst, a real hot, feel-good book. I loved it and wish to thank Bella Books and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my review.
That may have been true for John Muir, but not for Joni James, the New York girl who preferred the concrete streets of NY, now living in Denver and working for Mountain Life Magazine. Her assignment was to book a month at the Lyon’s Den Retreat and write an inflammatory article totally trashing the experience. That’s because her boss, Mr. Turnbull, was angry that his wife had come home from her time at the retreat a completely changed woman, cut her hair, started yoga, stopped drinking and filed for divorce. He was outraged and thought the place was brain-washing the women.
I’ve read so many wonderful books by Gerri Hill and, at first, this reminded me of her 2007 book, The Target, about the group of older, overweight ladies on a hiking and camping adventure. However, the participants of this retreat were very wealthy women who were happy on the outside but miserable on the inside, seeking a re-boot. Many had married for money, but not for love, and if you’re not happy in your life, change it, because life is too short. Their stories were both humorous and enlightening.
Joni balked and screamed at the activities she was required to do, such as obstacle courses, rope climbing, hiking, meditation, yoga and working out in the gym. About ready to quit and go home, she adapted, got into the flow, surprised herself at what she could accomplish, and became a leader. Sparks also began to fly as her team leader was the owner of the retreat, Kendall “Kenni” Lyon, whose positive and uplifting belief was time spent among the trees is never wasted time. The bantering between them was adorable, as she pushed and encouraged Joni.
This was a nice slow burn. The glances, the stares and the innocent flirting made this a romantic book. It was truly a delightful story with only light angst, a real hot, feel-good book. I loved it and wish to thank Bella Books and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my review.
April 28, 2025
Oh 5 star all the way!
Ms. Hill out did herself on this one.
This one had it all. Humor, Romance, Adventure, Action and the outdoors.
I laughed through the first half of the story. Joni, a New York type, has to endure obstacle courses, long hikes, early hours and No Wine.
The things she experiences is very humorous and will keep you turning pages. And the warmth of the relationships and bonding with her team feels good.
You will feel all the hard work and life changes over this 30 day stay.
Of course there is a steamy romance, an upset 3/4 through but all works out fine.
This is a really good read.
Thank you Bella Books for allowing me to read and review this wonderful story.
Ms. Hill out did herself on this one.
This one had it all. Humor, Romance, Adventure, Action and the outdoors.
I laughed through the first half of the story. Joni, a New York type, has to endure obstacle courses, long hikes, early hours and No Wine.
The things she experiences is very humorous and will keep you turning pages. And the warmth of the relationships and bonding with her team feels good.
You will feel all the hard work and life changes over this 30 day stay.
Of course there is a steamy romance, an upset 3/4 through but all works out fine.
This is a really good read.
Thank you Bella Books for allowing me to read and review this wonderful story.
July 7, 2025
This book is about Joni a journalist, born in Manhattan and a city girl by heart, and Kendall (aka Kenni) who leads a woodsy outdoor retreat. They could not have been more different persons.
The first half of the book is a bit boring. I guess it may be needed for context and built up, but at some point I was done with all the obstacle courses to go through and the detailed way they were a discribed. It was interesting to learn about nature and the purity of life in the woods though.
In the second half of the book it gets more emotional. The MCs become closer and there is less reporting about the daily activities in the retreat.
I was curious to see how Joni would survive and addapt during her month in Lyon's den. I also wanted to know more about Kendall. How did she land up there and what made her do this for living. It felt like I got to know Joni more than Kenni though and that's a shame, because Kenni seems a very interesting person and I was also curious about her.
I really liked the last part of the book, but the ending was a little abrupt. 4-⭐️
The first half of the book is a bit boring. I guess it may be needed for context and built up, but at some point I was done with all the obstacle courses to go through and the detailed way they were a discribed. It was interesting to learn about nature and the purity of life in the woods though.
In the second half of the book it gets more emotional. The MCs become closer and there is less reporting about the daily activities in the retreat.
I was curious to see how Joni would survive and addapt during her month in Lyon's den. I also wanted to know more about Kendall. How did she land up there and what made her do this for living. It felt like I got to know Joni more than Kenni though and that's a shame, because Kenni seems a very interesting person and I was also curious about her.
I really liked the last part of the book, but the ending was a little abrupt. 4-⭐️
December 22, 2025
Completing an obstacle course out in the woods and any type of hiking are as far from my ‘things I want to do’ that I can’t believe I got so wrapped in this book. I was truly surprised how invested I became with the whole thing. The plot-line should have had me sprinting, well, walking quickly away from reading about such situations. There are likeable characters with believable back lives and despite my aversion to the outdoors and all that entails I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From the opening to the ending this was an enjoyable read. Good writers rarely let you down.
July 29, 2025
4.25 stars
April 25, 2025
It's official! I have a new all-time favourite Gerri Hill Book. And that's saying something given that Gerri Hill was the first sapphic author I ever discovered, and I have read every single one of her books. I absolutely loved Lyon's Den. As someone who loves getting out into the bush and enjoy the stillness, as well as someone who is a strong believer in the power of mindfulness and personal growth, Lyon's Den delved into a lot of areas in which I have a keen interest.
In this story we meet two very different MCs. Kendall Lyon is the owner and lead instructor for The Lyon's Den wellness retreat held at her retreat centre in the mountains outside of Tin Cup, Colorado. Between May and September every year she runs a series of month-long retreats for women who are feeling a need to find themselves. Meanwhile Joni James is a journalist for a Denver-based magazine and a self-proclaimed hater of the outdoors. She has absolutely no interest in yoga, hiking, gym workouts or any other form out outdoor activity. When Joni's boss suddenly announces that he is sending her one of the Lyon's Den retreats, she is not impressed. However, her boss's expectations that she comes back and writes a hit article slamming the program gives her some consolation. She has no doubts that she is going to hate every single minute of the experience so writing the requested article shouldn't be too difficult. Little does she know that the experience will be life-changing for her and it's not long before her perception is beginning to change, not just in terms of the place and the program, but also of the owner, Kendall Lyon. The question is, how can she get out of writing a hit piece slamming the program, without also losing her job in the process.
I was drawn into this story from the very start and pretty much read it straight through in one sitting. The characters are well developed and you can’t help but fall in love with them all……well, apart from Joni’s boss who is a seriously nasty piece of work. I’m confident that anyone who is a fan of Gerri Hill’s writing is going to love this story as well.
I am grateful to the author and Bella Books for providing me with an e-ARC copy of Lyon’s Den and am leaving this review voluntarily.
In this story we meet two very different MCs. Kendall Lyon is the owner and lead instructor for The Lyon's Den wellness retreat held at her retreat centre in the mountains outside of Tin Cup, Colorado. Between May and September every year she runs a series of month-long retreats for women who are feeling a need to find themselves. Meanwhile Joni James is a journalist for a Denver-based magazine and a self-proclaimed hater of the outdoors. She has absolutely no interest in yoga, hiking, gym workouts or any other form out outdoor activity. When Joni's boss suddenly announces that he is sending her one of the Lyon's Den retreats, she is not impressed. However, her boss's expectations that she comes back and writes a hit article slamming the program gives her some consolation. She has no doubts that she is going to hate every single minute of the experience so writing the requested article shouldn't be too difficult. Little does she know that the experience will be life-changing for her and it's not long before her perception is beginning to change, not just in terms of the place and the program, but also of the owner, Kendall Lyon. The question is, how can she get out of writing a hit piece slamming the program, without also losing her job in the process.
I was drawn into this story from the very start and pretty much read it straight through in one sitting. The characters are well developed and you can’t help but fall in love with them all……well, apart from Joni’s boss who is a seriously nasty piece of work. I’m confident that anyone who is a fan of Gerri Hill’s writing is going to love this story as well.
I am grateful to the author and Bella Books for providing me with an e-ARC copy of Lyon’s Den and am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 27, 2025
Joni James is a magazine journalist who has been predominately writing restaurant reviews for a mountain life magazine in Denver, Colorado. Joni is originally from Manhattan, New York, and has been in Denver for eight years after she followed an ex to the city. She desperately misses Manhattan. Joni's boss, Mr. Turnbull, is disgruntled with his life after his wife returns from The Lyon's Den, a women's wilderness retreat, in the Tin Cup, Colorado mountains. Mr. Turnbull's wife is a drastically different woman after her month-long stay at The Lyon's Den and she now wants a divorce. So Mr. Turnbull assigns Joni to a month-long stay at the retreat in order to write a hit piece about the retreat and the owner, Kendall (Kenni) Lyon. Having grown up in Manhattan and not really enjoying Denver, Joni does not want to spend a minute, much less than a month, in the wilderness. She even contemplates resigning from her job, but decides reluctantly to go to the retreat accompanied with a bad attitude and sarcastic comments.
When Joni eventually settles into the retreat and her team, she finally begins to enjoy the hikes, the obstacle courses, the scavenger hunts, and her frustrating interactions with Kenni. During week 2, Joni and Kenni begin spending time together in the evenings following the highly scheduled activities during the day. Joni is encouraged by her team and Kenni is pushed by her employees to take advantage of their remaining time together and they eventually do so. However, now Joni has a dilemma about the hit piece article when she returns to Denver and her job.
I enjoyed the mountainous setting of this Gerri Hill romance. Some other positives include the growth experienced not only by both of the main characters, but also the other nineteen women who attended the retreat alongside Joni. The teamwork, comradery, and competition were also engaging and unlike other stories in this genre. 4.25 stars
I received an ARC from Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
When Joni eventually settles into the retreat and her team, she finally begins to enjoy the hikes, the obstacle courses, the scavenger hunts, and her frustrating interactions with Kenni. During week 2, Joni and Kenni begin spending time together in the evenings following the highly scheduled activities during the day. Joni is encouraged by her team and Kenni is pushed by her employees to take advantage of their remaining time together and they eventually do so. However, now Joni has a dilemma about the hit piece article when she returns to Denver and her job.
I enjoyed the mountainous setting of this Gerri Hill romance. Some other positives include the growth experienced not only by both of the main characters, but also the other nineteen women who attended the retreat alongside Joni. The teamwork, comradery, and competition were also engaging and unlike other stories in this genre. 4.25 stars
I received an ARC from Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2025
(4.5 Stars) A wonderful, feel good, romance from Gerri Hill. Joni James is a magazine journalist who enjoys her jobs writing restaurant and entertainment reviews for a Denver magazine. She is a born and bred city girl. Her boss sends her to a month-long stay at the Lyon’s Den. His wife is seeking a divorce after staying in the mountain retreat and he is sure it is to blame. There she meets Kendall (Kenni) Lyon. The wilderness retreat is geared towards disconnecting from the electronic world, enjoying nature, team building and healthy competition. There are daily classes, yoga scavenger hunts, hikes, and obstacle courses. And while participating the women find themselves growing in self confidence and self worth.
Joni begins as a grumpy I don’t like mountains persona and hates being the guinea pig demonstrating new challenges. But she is feeling the benefits. And one benefit is the growing attraction and friendship with Kenni. What happens with the article is predictable but I didn’t care. I just sat back and enjoyed every minute of the story. I like Kenni opening up and sharing her past. I liked Joni’s team and their camaraderie even though they were all different. I bought into the story and romance and enjoyed the banter between the pair. I love how Hill uses her books to share her love of the mountains. I may have wanted a more defined HEA but the makings for it were there.
Thank you to Bella Books for the ARC and I am leaving an honest review.
Joni begins as a grumpy I don’t like mountains persona and hates being the guinea pig demonstrating new challenges. But she is feeling the benefits. And one benefit is the growing attraction and friendship with Kenni. What happens with the article is predictable but I didn’t care. I just sat back and enjoyed every minute of the story. I like Kenni opening up and sharing her past. I liked Joni’s team and their camaraderie even though they were all different. I bought into the story and romance and enjoyed the banter between the pair. I love how Hill uses her books to share her love of the mountains. I may have wanted a more defined HEA but the makings for it were there.
Thank you to Bella Books for the ARC and I am leaving an honest review.
January 11, 2026
✔Sapphic Book Bingo Challenge 2026 🌈✨: Main Board - Set in the Mountains
4.5 stars. Well, this was absolutely lovely! So close to being a five star but the beginning part wasn’t the most interesting. It was repetitive but then we get to a certain point and I couldn’t put down my kindle. To get my grievances out of the way at the start I also thought the third act drama went on a bit *too* long but other than that I loved this. It’s very low angst and relaxing with a very sweet romance between Joni and Kenni. I loved their chemistry and the banter was so much fun. Joni is incredibly snarky and Kenni got such a kick out of her. It was adorable. I loved the side characters at the camp as well, and this had some really good funny moments in it. Such a fun and entertaining read. I could definitely see myself reading this again.
Spice: Fade to black/❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Content Warning:
4.5 stars. Well, this was absolutely lovely! So close to being a five star but the beginning part wasn’t the most interesting. It was repetitive but then we get to a certain point and I couldn’t put down my kindle. To get my grievances out of the way at the start I also thought the third act drama went on a bit *too* long but other than that I loved this. It’s very low angst and relaxing with a very sweet romance between Joni and Kenni. I loved their chemistry and the banter was so much fun. Joni is incredibly snarky and Kenni got such a kick out of her. It was adorable. I loved the side characters at the camp as well, and this had some really good funny moments in it. Such a fun and entertaining read. I could definitely see myself reading this again.
Spice: Fade to black/❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Content Warning:
May 13, 2025
Fit for love - come to the Lyon‘s Den
This book is as much about fitness and female empowerment as about love. Gerri Hill with all her routine in writing good romances introduces Joni, the ultimate city-slicker, cocktail hour-loving femme into the Colorado wilderness and the Lyon‘s Den. Joni hates her assignment to write a hit-piece on the fitness camp and the supposed men-haters corrupting good housewives.
The books starts with a great grumpy, enemies vibe which had me chuckling right away (wait for Kendall inspecting her luggage). Kendall runs the camp with the ultimate goal to empower women and Joni is a challenge.
Both Joni and Kendall have enough depth to keep the reader engaged and the wilderness as well as the daily tasks add Gerri‘s love of the outdoors to the story. The love-story is enjoyable as is the whole story about women coming into their power.
I received an ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
This book is as much about fitness and female empowerment as about love. Gerri Hill with all her routine in writing good romances introduces Joni, the ultimate city-slicker, cocktail hour-loving femme into the Colorado wilderness and the Lyon‘s Den. Joni hates her assignment to write a hit-piece on the fitness camp and the supposed men-haters corrupting good housewives.
The books starts with a great grumpy, enemies vibe which had me chuckling right away (wait for Kendall inspecting her luggage). Kendall runs the camp with the ultimate goal to empower women and Joni is a challenge.
Both Joni and Kendall have enough depth to keep the reader engaged and the wilderness as well as the daily tasks add Gerri‘s love of the outdoors to the story. The love-story is enjoyable as is the whole story about women coming into their power.
I received an ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
June 12, 2025
I am sorry that the Romance genre has moved their characters into extreme wealth. I am unsure how to feel about people who can find $10,00.00 for a reteat for a month. The main character had a potty mouth that I found unnecesarry. I was in the US Navy, so I did not find the language offensive, but after I got out of the Navy and was back in college I stopped useing a word pattern of useless adjectives. Even the misunderstandings towards the end of the book were of a 'juvenile' nature.
The course of the story was predictable, especially if you are a faithful Gerri Hill reader. I enjoy the humor in Geri's books. And to a certain degree I enjoy that Gerri's books are predictable. While I usually can stay all night reading the newest Gerrri Hill book 'Lyon's Den' was not that kind of book for me, though I started reading it on the 10th and finished it on th 11th. I think it is a story a lot of people will enjoy and I do encourage people to read it.
The course of the story was predictable, especially if you are a faithful Gerri Hill reader. I enjoy the humor in Geri's books. And to a certain degree I enjoy that Gerri's books are predictable. While I usually can stay all night reading the newest Gerrri Hill book 'Lyon's Den' was not that kind of book for me, though I started reading it on the 10th and finished it on th 11th. I think it is a story a lot of people will enjoy and I do encourage people to read it.
June 7, 2025
Gerri Hill’s Lyon’s Den is a love letter to Colorado’s wild beauty. This sapphic enemies-to-lovers romance sends Manhattanite Joni James to a wilderness retreat run by Kendall Lyon, a heartbroken woman seeking life’s meaning. Hill’s elegant, dazzling prose layers romance with something deeper: a reverence for nature’s healing power. Hiking, grounding, and adventure become metaphors for transformation. In just 266 pages, Hill invites us to step outside—breathe fresh air, feel the earth beneath us, and rediscover possibility. After finishing, I found myself longing to book an all-women’s wilderness retreat and embrace the call of the wild.
August 11, 2025
This was a quick, feel-good read, though I still prefer Gerri Hill's crime mysteries. I liked both MCs and their funny, easy banter. The retreat idea was interesting,if a bit far-fetched, but the message behind it was inspiring. It even made me want to go hiking, and I'm as much of a city girl as Joni.
It's low angst, and even the late conflict wrapped up quickly. I took off a star because the endless obstacle course descriptions dragged, and I skimmed those. The ending was sweet but felt unrealistic, and I wish we'd gotten more of Joni’s backstory. Still, I enjoyed the setting, the banter, and how the story flowed.
It's low angst, and even the late conflict wrapped up quickly. I took off a star because the endless obstacle course descriptions dragged, and I skimmed those. The ending was sweet but felt unrealistic, and I wish we'd gotten more of Joni’s backstory. Still, I enjoyed the setting, the banter, and how the story flowed.
May 18, 2025
I do love Gerri Hill books. I prefer her crime novels to the romance but I’ll read anything with her name on the cover.
This novel is set in a woman’s wellness camp that journalist Joni James is sent to, to write a ‘hit piece’ about it. Her male boss isn’t happy that the place ‘brainwashes’ women. Joni is not happy, she doesn’t do ‘outdoors’, she doesn’t want to go hiking. But a month in the wilderness with the gorgeous Kenni Lyon changes her in so many ways.
A well written, fast read by a master storyteller.
This novel is set in a woman’s wellness camp that journalist Joni James is sent to, to write a ‘hit piece’ about it. Her male boss isn’t happy that the place ‘brainwashes’ women. Joni is not happy, she doesn’t do ‘outdoors’, she doesn’t want to go hiking. But a month in the wilderness with the gorgeous Kenni Lyon changes her in so many ways.
A well written, fast read by a master storyteller.
June 16, 2025
Lyon's Den
Ok, if there's a real place like the Lyon's Den, please sign me up! It seems like an adult summer camp for women and I am ready for it - sounds super fun!
Kenni and Joni were a blast to read! There banter during the challenges and courses were hilarious! The story overall in a great way to kick off the summer!
Ok, if there's a real place like the Lyon's Den, please sign me up! It seems like an adult summer camp for women and I am ready for it - sounds super fun!
Kenni and Joni were a blast to read! There banter during the challenges and courses were hilarious! The story overall in a great way to kick off the summer!
November 14, 2025
I've been reading Gerri Hill's books for years and years. I am yet to come across something that is not a hit and, Lyon's Den was no different.
It was a wonderful one-sit read over a rainy Sunday. I wish I could go to Lyon's Den and spend some time retreating in the woods doing obstacle courses with a bunch of women. The book makes you yearn for the great outdoors.
I did think the plot was very predictable, I was able to tell what the main conflict would be 1/4 through the book and I've hit the bullseye. And the story would have 100% benefited from an epilogue, as the ending leaves you wanting to know that little bit more, wanting to know how things panned out.
Regardless of these minor hiccups (I don't really mind a predictable plot in romance books, to be honest), the read was light and enjoyable, as all Gerri Hill's books are.
It was a wonderful one-sit read over a rainy Sunday. I wish I could go to Lyon's Den and spend some time retreating in the woods doing obstacle courses with a bunch of women. The book makes you yearn for the great outdoors.
I did think the plot was very predictable, I was able to tell what the main conflict would be 1/4 through the book and I've hit the bullseye. And the story would have 100% benefited from an epilogue, as the ending leaves you wanting to know that little bit more, wanting to know how things panned out.
Regardless of these minor hiccups (I don't really mind a predictable plot in romance books, to be honest), the read was light and enjoyable, as all Gerri Hill's books are.
May 27, 2025
I loved the protagonists, the setting, the dilemma and the resolution. Secondary characters were memorable and added to the story. Gerri Hill never fails to hit the mark, and is one of my go-to favorite authors.
May 31, 2025
Sweet love story
The story is interesting the characters are well written and likable. The idea of a camp in the mountains to in power women where women find their inter strengths. Thanks for a good read.
The story is interesting the characters are well written and likable. The idea of a camp in the mountains to in power women where women find their inter strengths. Thanks for a good read.
June 5, 2025
This book has been one of the best I have read. Loved the characters and loved the whole plot. What a great idea! I loved the mix of romance, fun and characters. It even made me laugh out loud a few times. Worth the read
July 18, 2025
Clever Title for a mountain challenge camp for women. How do women lose confidence in themselves in mid life? Gerri Hill uses a month of physical challenges to rebuild the teams. Great self discovery tale with extra twists
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