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Lost Legends #1
Bluebird Gold
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Devney Perry comes a gripping romance set in 1983 where a woman’s search for the truth about her father’s death entangles her with the small-town sheriff and a legend of lost Montana gold.
Living in Dalton, Montana was not what I had planned for this winter. But after my father’s sudden death, I uprooted my life to move into his tiny, lakeside cabin and settle his estate. My friends tell me to sell his place and move on. But this winter is my chance to say goodbye. To remember a man who’d loved tales of Montana lore.
Taking a temporary teaching job seemed like the perfect way to keep myself busy on lonely days. Cleaning out the cabin should have been simple. Except the more I learn about my father’s life, the more questions I have about his death.
The last thing I need is a crush on Sheriff Cosi Raynes. Not only is his son my student, but his life is rooted in Montana, while mine is headed . . . anywhere else.
Yet as I uncover a trail of strange clues Dad left behind about a lost legend of Montana gold, staying away from Cosi is not an option. Neither is denying the attraction between us. And my winter of healing becomes a race for answers.
I came to Montana to bury the past. Now I’m falling for the man who might just be my future. And either I’ll solve this mystery. Or the person in Dalton determined to hide the truth will make sure I die trying.
Living in Dalton, Montana was not what I had planned for this winter. But after my father’s sudden death, I uprooted my life to move into his tiny, lakeside cabin and settle his estate. My friends tell me to sell his place and move on. But this winter is my chance to say goodbye. To remember a man who’d loved tales of Montana lore.
Taking a temporary teaching job seemed like the perfect way to keep myself busy on lonely days. Cleaning out the cabin should have been simple. Except the more I learn about my father’s life, the more questions I have about his death.
The last thing I need is a crush on Sheriff Cosi Raynes. Not only is his son my student, but his life is rooted in Montana, while mine is headed . . . anywhere else.
Yet as I uncover a trail of strange clues Dad left behind about a lost legend of Montana gold, staying away from Cosi is not an option. Neither is denying the attraction between us. And my winter of healing becomes a race for answers.
I came to Montana to bury the past. Now I’m falling for the man who might just be my future. And either I’ll solve this mystery. Or the person in Dalton determined to hide the truth will make sure I die trying.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 30, 2025
4361 people are currently reading
27312 people want to read
About the author
Devney Perry
83 books29.2k followersDevney is a #1 Amazon, Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of over forty romance novels. After working in the technology industry for a decade, she abandoned conference calls and project schedules to pursue her passion for writing. She was born and raised in Montana and now lives in Washington with her husband and two sons.”
Visit Devney's website to sign up for her newsletters and learn more about upcoming books.
www.devneyperry.com
Visit Devney's website to sign up for her newsletters and learn more about upcoming books.
www.devneyperry.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,645 reviews
January 9, 2026
WHY CAN I NEVER GUESS THE VILLAIN RIGHT IN A ROMANTIC SUSPENSE?????
I truly love Devney’s writing style and her characters, and Bluebird Gold was absolutely a page turner. As you can see I finished it in 3 days. I needed to know who it was (not saying what or who or why so I don’t spoil).
What I really think worked so well in this book was the balance of suspense to romance, it blended so well, with extremely likeable characters. And I was not anticipating what was going to happen at the end, I loved every second. But I also love the emotional aspect as well, the emotions between the love interests, the father daughter emotions, the son father emotions, I felt it all while reading.
Overall, if you want a romantic suspense to pick up and read extremely quickly because you won’t be able to put the book down, you need to read this one. Trust me, you’ll like it!!
I truly love Devney’s writing style and her characters, and Bluebird Gold was absolutely a page turner. As you can see I finished it in 3 days. I needed to know who it was (not saying what or who or why so I don’t spoil).
What I really think worked so well in this book was the balance of suspense to romance, it blended so well, with extremely likeable characters. And I was not anticipating what was going to happen at the end, I loved every second. But I also love the emotional aspect as well, the emotions between the love interests, the father daughter emotions, the son father emotions, I felt it all while reading.
Overall, if you want a romantic suspense to pick up and read extremely quickly because you won’t be able to put the book down, you need to read this one. Trust me, you’ll like it!!
January 12, 2026
I had seen really good reviews of this one, so I was excited. It def delivered. Action, violence, romance, family drama, and a treasure hunt. This book had it all. 🩵
The romance in this was great and there wasn’t too much spice, but there were a few spicy scenes towards the middle that were very good. The chemistry between them was great.
I enjoyed the mystery of the treasure and all the crazy things that kept happening. (Trying to not give too much away about the plot.)
This was enjoyable for sure. What made it 4 stars instead of 5 for me is that it was a little predictable at times. I think this author hints a lot about what is to come, but still a good book!
The romance in this was great and there wasn’t too much spice, but there were a few spicy scenes towards the middle that were very good. The chemistry between them was great.
I enjoyed the mystery of the treasure and all the crazy things that kept happening. (Trying to not give too much away about the plot.)
This was enjoyable for sure. What made it 4 stars instead of 5 for me is that it was a little predictable at times. I think this author hints a lot about what is to come, but still a good book!
December 30, 2025
absolutely LOVED Ilsa + Cosi’s story, and the added suspense & mystery elements 😍
Thank you Devney Perry, Montlake & Brilliance Publishing for the ARC & ALC. All opinions are my own.
✦ tropes & stuff:
🏞 1983 Montana
💙 single dad + protective Sheriff
🗺 lost gold/treasure hunt
😱 romantic suspense
👩🏻🏫 high school teacher
❤️🩹 grief rep
🌳 small town
💞 dual 1st person pov
•┈••✦ review ✦••┈•
🎧 audio+ebook | ⭐️: 4.75 | 🌶️: 2.5 |
💭 what I loved about this one:
• the banter between Isla + Cosi
• the more simplistic 1983 vibes, without the distractions or ability to communicate instantly
• Cosi’s take-charge nature, and how that was what Ilsa needed in her life to move forward
• the complicated relationship Ilsa has with grieving her father she barely knew (relatable for me)
• Ilsa’s relationship with Spencer, Cosi’s 14 year old son (she’s also his math teacher) - I love how seamlessly they bonded, and how both seemed to quickly feel protective over one another
may be a bit of a spoiler so I’ll add a tag
🙃 what didn’t quite work for me:
• the insta love of it was slightly unbelievable for me, the pace at which they basically moved in together threw me off a bit
I’m a little confused as to how this will be a series, since I didn’t notice anything to set up a future book - curious to see what Devney has in mind!
🎧 audiobook thoughts:
I knew going in I would love this, Connor Crais is my favorite male narrator, and this is DUET too! Both Samantha Brentmoor + Connor were fabulous as Isla + Cosi 🥰
📖 Bluebird Gold by author
📚 book 1 • Lost Legends series
💜: romantic suspense (mf)
🎙 narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor & Connor Crais
*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍
Thank you Devney Perry, Montlake & Brilliance Publishing for the ARC & ALC. All opinions are my own.
✦ tropes & stuff:
🏞 1983 Montana
💙 single dad + protective Sheriff
🗺 lost gold/treasure hunt
😱 romantic suspense
👩🏻🏫 high school teacher
❤️🩹 grief rep
🌳 small town
💞 dual 1st person pov
•┈••✦ review ✦••┈•
🎧 audio+ebook | ⭐️: 4.75 | 🌶️: 2.5 |
💭 what I loved about this one:
• the banter between Isla + Cosi
• the more simplistic 1983 vibes, without the distractions or ability to communicate instantly
• Cosi’s take-charge nature, and how that was what Ilsa needed in her life to move forward
• the complicated relationship Ilsa has with grieving her father she barely knew (relatable for me)
• Ilsa’s relationship with Spencer, Cosi’s 14 year old son (she’s also his math teacher) - I love how seamlessly they bonded, and how both seemed to quickly feel protective over one another
may be a bit of a spoiler so I’ll add a tag
🙃 what didn’t quite work for me:
• the insta love of it was slightly unbelievable for me, the pace at which they basically moved in together threw me off a bit
I’m a little confused as to how this will be a series, since I didn’t notice anything to set up a future book - curious to see what Devney has in mind!
🎧 audiobook thoughts:
I knew going in I would love this, Connor Crais is my favorite male narrator, and this is DUET too! Both Samantha Brentmoor + Connor were fabulous as Isla + Cosi 🥰
📖 Bluebird Gold by author
📚 book 1 • Lost Legends series
💜: romantic suspense (mf)
🎙 narrated by: Samantha Brentmoor & Connor Crais
*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍
December 30, 2025
This is my new favorite Devney Perry book.
Like oh my god, thank you for this masterpiece.
Loved.
The 1980s setting was just great. All the vibes.
Think no cell phones.
Montana wild setting
Cosi: our younger Tom Selleck inspired MMC
Single dad (teenage boy)
Sheriff : love me a law man
Protective
Isla: the gorgeous woman who returns after her fathers death
Strong and confident FMC
His sons teacher
These twos relationship just felt genuine.
And the chemistry between these two was off the charts.
Romantic suspense 🔥
Done so well.
The lost legends… the mystery.
I did not want to put this down.
Arc review ✨
Like oh my god, thank you for this masterpiece.
Loved.
The 1980s setting was just great. All the vibes.
Think no cell phones.
Montana wild setting
Cosi: our younger Tom Selleck inspired MMC
Single dad (teenage boy)
Sheriff : love me a law man
Protective
Isla: the gorgeous woman who returns after her fathers death
Strong and confident FMC
His sons teacher
These twos relationship just felt genuine.
And the chemistry between these two was off the charts.
Romantic suspense 🔥
Done so well.
The lost legends… the mystery.
I did not want to put this down.
Arc review ✨
January 11, 2026
✨ Rating: 4⭐️
🫧 Vibes: cozy romantic suspense
🎶 Song: there she goes - the la's
📖 Favourite Quote: "Whatever was making her life hard, I'd move mountains to make it easy."
📚 Would I recommend? yes!
💬 tldr thoughts: a heartwarming romantic mystery with a protective MMC and a strong FMC
In the package:
📦 family secrets and treasure
📦 sheriff x teacher
📦 single dad
📦 small town
Plot: After her father's death, Ilsa returns to Dalton, Montana to deal with her father's cabin. She starts to uncover clues he left behind about a long-rumored stash of lost gold. However, someone else seems to be after those clues and Ilsa isn't safe. As she grows closer to the town sheriff, they both realize her father's death may not have been an accident after all.
Thoughts: Another classic Devney Perry book with a blend of murder mystery and romance. I just love her books so much because they're always short, heartwarming and fast paced. I really loved that this one had a lost treasure storyline to it and I'm excited to see where the story goes in book 2. Cosi was such a sweet MMC and very protective of Ilsa 🥹 I loved seeing Ilsa get close to Cosi's son and help him come out of his shell. Ilsa was a great FMC, who was determined and headstrong despite the town being quite rude to her when she arrived. And in typical Devney fashion, the epilogue tugged at my heartstrings 🥹
✩⁺₊✩☽⋆ follow me on tiktok and instagram⋆☾✩⁺₊✩
🫧 Vibes: cozy romantic suspense
🎶 Song: there she goes - the la's
📖 Favourite Quote: "Whatever was making her life hard, I'd move mountains to make it easy."
📚 Would I recommend? yes!
💬 tldr thoughts: a heartwarming romantic mystery with a protective MMC and a strong FMC
In the package:
📦 family secrets and treasure
📦 sheriff x teacher
📦 single dad
📦 small town
Plot: After her father's death, Ilsa returns to Dalton, Montana to deal with her father's cabin. She starts to uncover clues he left behind about a long-rumored stash of lost gold. However, someone else seems to be after those clues and Ilsa isn't safe. As she grows closer to the town sheriff, they both realize her father's death may not have been an accident after all.
Thoughts: Another classic Devney Perry book with a blend of murder mystery and romance. I just love her books so much because they're always short, heartwarming and fast paced. I really loved that this one had a lost treasure storyline to it and I'm excited to see where the story goes in book 2. Cosi was such a sweet MMC and very protective of Ilsa 🥹 I loved seeing Ilsa get close to Cosi's son and help him come out of his shell. Ilsa was a great FMC, who was determined and headstrong despite the town being quite rude to her when she arrived. And in typical Devney fashion, the epilogue tugged at my heartstrings 🥹
✩⁺₊✩☽⋆ follow me on tiktok and instagram⋆☾✩⁺₊✩
January 9, 2026
❀⋆.ೃ࿔* BLUEBIRD GOLD ❀⋆.ೃ࿔* Is the first full length suspenseful small town romance (Lost Legends) series by author Devney Perry.
Will write up a review once my internet is fixed.
• T R O P E S •
☀︎ Single dad
☀︎ Small town 1987
☀︎ Secret gold
☀︎ Suspense
Will write up a review once my internet is fixed.
• T R O P E S •
☀︎ Single dad
☀︎ Small town 1987
☀︎ Secret gold
☀︎ Suspense
January 10, 2026
Thoughts
This was so good, the small town vibes and characters, it took me a few pages to get into the story but once I got immersed into the plot I couldn't book the book down, if you enjoy suspense romance with a single dad ( his son's interactions with Ilsa are so cute🫠) then I highly recommend
Plot Summary
After her father’s death, Ilsa spends the winter in his isolated Montana cabin to settle his affairs and make peace with the past. Taking a temporary teaching job helps fill the long days, but unanswered questions about her father’s life—and death—refuse to stay buried. As she uncovers clues tied to a local legend of lost Montana gold, she’s drawn closer to Sheriff Cosi Raynes, despite knowing her future lies far from his. With danger closing in and feelings deepening, her season of grief turns into a fight for the truth—and a chance at an unexpected future.
My Bookstagram
This was so good, the small town vibes and characters, it took me a few pages to get into the story but once I got immersed into the plot I couldn't book the book down, if you enjoy suspense romance with a single dad ( his son's interactions with Ilsa are so cute🫠) then I highly recommend
Plot Summary
After her father’s death, Ilsa spends the winter in his isolated Montana cabin to settle his affairs and make peace with the past. Taking a temporary teaching job helps fill the long days, but unanswered questions about her father’s life—and death—refuse to stay buried. As she uncovers clues tied to a local legend of lost Montana gold, she’s drawn closer to Sheriff Cosi Raynes, despite knowing her future lies far from his. With danger closing in and feelings deepening, her season of grief turns into a fight for the truth—and a chance at an unexpected future.
My Bookstagram
January 6, 2026
Bluebird Gold had a lot of ingredients I usually enjoy — small-town Montana, a single dad, a mystery twist, and nostalgic 1980s vibes.
That said, for me the romance never really built in a way that felt believable or earned. It kind of came out of nowhere. One moment they barely know each other and we get tiny internal hints they are attracted, and the next there’s a bedroom scene. That shift felt abrupt and didn’t give me a chance to really buy into their connection or understand the depth of their attraction. I wanted a lot more tangible buildup before the passion kicked in.
I also didn’t love how Ilsa’s long-term friendship ended. After what clearly felt like decades of history, the way it was wrapped up felt shallow and undeserving of such a long relationship, which was disappointing. The author didn’t need to write the male character as such a jerk — that friendship deserved a more amicable, respectful resolution. It felt like a missed opportunity to show a healthy parting of ways.
Another thing that didn’t quite work for me was the setting. It’s set in 1983, but apart from a few references to landlines, MTV, and Henley shirts, it didn’t really feel rooted in that era. I was expecting more of that nostalgic 80s atmosphere, and I just didn’t get it.
On the mystery side, I guessed the “bad guy” around 70% — but not because the clues pointed cleanly in that direction. I honestly had no real theory and basically threw out a name that happened to be right. I actually gasped during the reveal, but not in a satisfying way. When a reveal feels out of character for how someone has been written, it makes their actions harder to buy into.
Overall, this was a miss in several areas. It’s not overtly bad, but I did find it lacking
That said, for me the romance never really built in a way that felt believable or earned. It kind of came out of nowhere. One moment they barely know each other and we get tiny internal hints they are attracted, and the next there’s a bedroom scene. That shift felt abrupt and didn’t give me a chance to really buy into their connection or understand the depth of their attraction. I wanted a lot more tangible buildup before the passion kicked in.
I also didn’t love how Ilsa’s long-term friendship ended. After what clearly felt like decades of history, the way it was wrapped up felt shallow and undeserving of such a long relationship, which was disappointing. The author didn’t need to write the male character as such a jerk — that friendship deserved a more amicable, respectful resolution. It felt like a missed opportunity to show a healthy parting of ways.
Another thing that didn’t quite work for me was the setting. It’s set in 1983, but apart from a few references to landlines, MTV, and Henley shirts, it didn’t really feel rooted in that era. I was expecting more of that nostalgic 80s atmosphere, and I just didn’t get it.
On the mystery side, I guessed the “bad guy” around 70% — but not because the clues pointed cleanly in that direction. I honestly had no real theory and basically threw out a name that happened to be right. I actually gasped during the reveal, but not in a satisfying way. When a reveal feels out of character for how someone has been written, it makes their actions harder to buy into.
Overall, this was a miss in several areas. It’s not overtly bad, but I did find it lacking
January 24, 2026
AHHHHHHHHHH this book was ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! God, I love a good mystery (about lost gold) especially one that’s intertwined with romance hehe. And it’s set in the 1980s which is a whole vibe in and of itself.
Cosi & Ilsa were PERFECT!!!! I loved those two so damn much. A small town sheriff with a slutty little mustache & a temporary math teacher with a heart full of gold?! Pls they so cute but also SO HOT TOGETHER!! And the fact that everyone in the small town is so against her but Cosi is her knight in shining armor in so many ways had me swoooooning like never before. Also the found family aspect had me lowkey emotional too like pls. Love a good single dad romance 👏👏👏
The audio was also next level. Two of my fave narrators, ugh I’m in heaven.
Type: audio/physical (Connor Crais & Samantha Brentmoor)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes:
Romance suspense
Forced proximity
Small town
Single dad
Found family
Cosi & Ilsa were PERFECT!!!! I loved those two so damn much. A small town sheriff with a slutty little mustache & a temporary math teacher with a heart full of gold?! Pls they so cute but also SO HOT TOGETHER!! And the fact that everyone in the small town is so against her but Cosi is her knight in shining armor in so many ways had me swoooooning like never before. Also the found family aspect had me lowkey emotional too like pls. Love a good single dad romance 👏👏👏
The audio was also next level. Two of my fave narrators, ugh I’m in heaven.
Type: audio/physical (Connor Crais & Samantha Brentmoor)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Tropes:
Romance suspense
Forced proximity
Small town
Single dad
Found family
December 6, 2025
Five ⭐️ Review
If you are looking for a suspense romance set in 1980s Montana with a single dad and an FMC who is trying to come to terms with the loss of her father, this book is for you.
I loved how much suspense Devney wove into this story. She truly hit the nail on the head, especially with the twisted ending we got. I was completely unprepared and absolutely obsessed.
The FMC and MMC had such a unique dynamic. Not forbidden, but definitely giving that slight taboo edge that keeps you hooked. The way he loves her, regardless of circumstances or outside opinions, made my heart ache in the best way.
His son was such a typical teenager, and I grew to love him more and more as the story unfolded. And the little town of Dalton, Montana completely won me over. It wrapped around me the same way it did the FMC.
Is there spice? Absolutely, and it was fantastic.
Were there moments where I had tears in my eyes? Yes.
Were there jaw-dropping moments where I said “what the fuck” out loud? One hundred percent.
Devney, you have done it again.
This book is a true work of art.
If you are looking for a suspense romance set in 1980s Montana with a single dad and an FMC who is trying to come to terms with the loss of her father, this book is for you.
I loved how much suspense Devney wove into this story. She truly hit the nail on the head, especially with the twisted ending we got. I was completely unprepared and absolutely obsessed.
The FMC and MMC had such a unique dynamic. Not forbidden, but definitely giving that slight taboo edge that keeps you hooked. The way he loves her, regardless of circumstances or outside opinions, made my heart ache in the best way.
His son was such a typical teenager, and I grew to love him more and more as the story unfolded. And the little town of Dalton, Montana completely won me over. It wrapped around me the same way it did the FMC.
Is there spice? Absolutely, and it was fantastic.
Were there moments where I had tears in my eyes? Yes.
Were there jaw-dropping moments where I said “what the fuck” out loud? One hundred percent.
Devney, you have done it again.
This book is a true work of art.
January 20, 2026
5⭐️
Я скучила за Девні)
А тут - 80-ті, чоловік з вусами, самотній тато, вчителька сина, пошук скарбів 🥰
Мені дуже сподобались герої.
Касі - ну цей чоловік вкрав сердечко ❤️ гарячий шериф містечка, виховує сам сина, і вирішує проблеми 🔥
Ілса - сильна жінка, яка не здається, незважаючи не ворожість на роботі, в місті, має гарне серце 🤗
Спенсер - ну просто чудовий малий, зазвичай не люблю дітей в сюжеті, але цей хлопець розумний, чесний та як гарно поставився до Ілси 🥰
До кінця я не розуміла хто в сюжеті гніда, хто це все влаштував, і я здивувалася, не думала за цю людину.
І звісно, я тепер чекаю книга Спенсера 😍 думаю цей хлопець буде не гірше, ніж його гарячий татко 🤤
Я скучила за Девні)
А тут - 80-ті, чоловік з вусами, самотній тато, вчителька сина, пошук скарбів 🥰
Мені дуже сподобались герої.
Касі - ну цей чоловік вкрав сердечко ❤️ гарячий шериф містечка, виховує сам сина, і вирішує проблеми 🔥
Ілса - сильна жінка, яка не здається, незважаючи не ворожість на роботі, в місті, має гарне серце 🤗
Спенсер - ну просто чудовий малий, зазвичай не люблю дітей в сюжеті, але цей хлопець розумний, чесний та як гарно поставився до Ілси 🥰
До кінця я не розуміла хто в сюжеті гніда, хто це все влаштував, і я здивувалася, не думала за цю людину.
І звісно, я тепер чекаю книга Спенсера 😍 думаю цей хлопець буде не гірше, ніж його гарячий татко 🤤
January 18, 2026
I must be the only one that didn’t like this. I’m a big Devney Perry fan… But what was this? The story was fine, maybe even a little bit unique (in a good way), but the ending was severely anticlimactic.
December 29, 2025
FIVE STARS!!!!
1983: While Will Byers was being kidnapped by Vecna, Isla was falling in love with the hot Sheriff of Dalton, MT. GOOD FOR YOU, GIRL!!!!
This was sooooo cute. The perfect combo of romance and a dash of mystery.
things to know:
- Small town MT
- Sheriff x New Girl in Town
- She moved to MT to clean out her deceased fathers cabin
- A mysterious letter from her dad
- Her dads cabin was vandalized so she stays with the Sheriff
- Cosi (sheriff) is built like a fridge with a mustache!!!!
- He has a way with words!!!!!!!! *feral scream*
1983: While Will Byers was being kidnapped by Vecna, Isla was falling in love with the hot Sheriff of Dalton, MT. GOOD FOR YOU, GIRL!!!!
This was sooooo cute. The perfect combo of romance and a dash of mystery.
things to know:
- Small town MT
- Sheriff x New Girl in Town
- She moved to MT to clean out her deceased fathers cabin
- A mysterious letter from her dad
- Her dads cabin was vandalized so she stays with the Sheriff
- Cosi (sheriff) is built like a fridge with a mustache!!!!
- He has a way with words!!!!!!!! *feral scream*
January 3, 2026
4.5⭐️
➸ small town (1980s Montana)
➸ single dad x son's teacher
➸ romantic suspence
➸ lost gold legend
Ilsa coming to her hometown after her father's death to settle his estate and say goodbye. What she wasn't expecting is someone intruding her house searching the clues to lost gold.
That was pretty good choice for my first read of the year. There was mystery, romance and likable characters.
I liked Ilsa. Strong girl struggling with loss and dealing with grief.
Cosi Sexy Sheriff Raynes. Mr., it's illegal to be so hot. Mustache and dirty talks. I'm on my knees for this man. And how possessive and protective he is. And besides he's a good dad.
The chemistry between characters was touchable. And that "Fuck it" moment. So freaking HOT.
Spencer. This kid stole my heart. His interactions with Ilsa❤️
Tiny OM drama. Not annoying, just her male friend coming to visit her and bringing the chaos.
Speaking of a suspence, I haven't guessed the bad guy, it was unexpected to me.
So, if you're looking for your next winter read, you should try this one.
➸ small town (1980s Montana)
➸ single dad x son's teacher
➸ romantic suspence
➸ lost gold legend
Ilsa coming to her hometown after her father's death to settle his estate and say goodbye. What she wasn't expecting is someone intruding her house searching the clues to lost gold.
That was pretty good choice for my first read of the year. There was mystery, romance and likable characters.
I liked Ilsa. Strong girl struggling with loss and dealing with grief.
Cosi Sexy Sheriff Raynes. Mr., it's illegal to be so hot. Mustache and dirty talks. I'm on my knees for this man. And how possessive and protective he is. And besides he's a good dad.
The chemistry between characters was touchable. And that "Fuck it" moment. So freaking HOT.
Spencer. This kid stole my heart. His interactions with Ilsa❤️
Tiny OM drama. Not annoying, just her male friend coming to visit her and bringing the chaos.
Speaking of a suspence, I haven't guessed the bad guy, it was unexpected to me.
So, if you're looking for your next winter read, you should try this one.
January 7, 2026
It has been a while since I read a Devney Perry so I forgot how good her books can be.
I was hooked from the very first chapter. I had a lot of fun theorizing and trying to put all of the pieces of the mystery together. The author took her time building up the suspense, but I do think the reveal at the end was kind of anticlimactic and I was left unsatisfied. Having the story take place in the 80s was refreshing though. I can’t really comment on the accuracy of it since I wasn’t even born, but the vibes were immaculate.
The highlight of the book was without a doubt the romance between Ike and Cosi. Ike was an absolute badass. She was fierce and witty and didn’t take crap from anyone. Cosi was the perfect complement to her. On top of the fact that he’s an amazing single dad and sheriff, he was also protective, broody and kind. I loved them together so much! Cosi’s son Spencer was great as well. I really adored the bond Spencer formed with Ike. It was very cute. There was some miscommunication between Cosi and Ike towards the end of the book which annoyed me, but I’m glad that they were able to resolve it pretty quickly.
All in all, this was a really enjoyable read and I hope the author writes more books for this series.
I was hooked from the very first chapter. I had a lot of fun theorizing and trying to put all of the pieces of the mystery together. The author took her time building up the suspense, but I do think the reveal at the end was kind of anticlimactic and I was left unsatisfied. Having the story take place in the 80s was refreshing though. I can’t really comment on the accuracy of it since I wasn’t even born, but the vibes were immaculate.
The highlight of the book was without a doubt the romance between Ike and Cosi. Ike was an absolute badass. She was fierce and witty and didn’t take crap from anyone. Cosi was the perfect complement to her. On top of the fact that he’s an amazing single dad and sheriff, he was also protective, broody and kind. I loved them together so much! Cosi’s son Spencer was great as well. I really adored the bond Spencer formed with Ike. It was very cute. There was some miscommunication between Cosi and Ike towards the end of the book which annoyed me, but I’m glad that they were able to resolve it pretty quickly.
All in all, this was a really enjoyable read and I hope the author writes more books for this series.
January 24, 2026
Це було прекрасно 🩵
January 3, 2026
You can’t say no to a slutty little mustache… add in some suspense that literally scared me and you’ve got a book you can’t put down!
January 19, 2026
Девні Перрі для мене на хорошому рівні, і ця книжка теж не розчарувала.
я ніби знову читаю «Іденів» – з розслідуваннями, напругою та пікантними моментами. мене відразу привабив вайб Монтани, тому зараз я в настрої «давайте вже наступну книжку».
молодий шериф та вчителька його сина-підлітка гарно поєдналися у всіх таємницях. мені сподобалося, як усе поступово розвивалося, а ще син головного героя, Сенсер, украв моє серце навіть більше, ніж його батько. нехай з матір'ю не пощастило, зате який батько! обожнюю моменти, де вони втрьох з Ілсою, і до сліз – пролог. Ілса приїхала розібратися зі спадком батька, але отримала дещо вартісніше.
хороша історія – хороший вечір.
4/5 ⭐️
я ніби знову читаю «Іденів» – з розслідуваннями, напругою та пікантними моментами. мене відразу привабив вайб Монтани, тому зараз я в настрої «давайте вже наступну книжку».
молодий шериф та вчителька його сина-підлітка гарно поєдналися у всіх таємницях. мені сподобалося, як усе поступово розвивалося, а ще син головного героя, Сенсер, украв моє серце навіть більше, ніж його батько. нехай з матір'ю не пощастило, зате який батько! обожнюю моменти, де вони втрьох з Ілсою, і до сліз – пролог. Ілса приїхала розібратися зі спадком батька, але отримала дещо вартісніше.
хороша історія – хороший вечір.
4/5 ⭐️
January 6, 2026
4.75 ⭐️
Thank you for going back to your Indigo Ridge roots Devney! I loved every second of this book … (and not just because the main character was inspired by Tom Selleck… okay maybe a little bit). I loved every second a good romance suspense and Cosi was down bad for Ilsa!
The only reason this doesn’t get 5 ⭐️ is that it was a tad predictable but I was actually still very surprised! I just wished she took a little more pages and really got into the depths of the mystery but hey I loved it nonetheless!
Thank you for going back to your Indigo Ridge roots Devney! I loved every second of this book … (and not just because the main character was inspired by Tom Selleck… okay maybe a little bit). I loved every second a good romance suspense and Cosi was down bad for Ilsa!
The only reason this doesn’t get 5 ⭐️ is that it was a tad predictable but I was actually still very surprised! I just wished she took a little more pages and really got into the depths of the mystery but hey I loved it nonetheless!
January 5, 2026
This small town romantic, suspense story was JUST what I needed to start off the new year & get out of the biggest reading slump of my life 🙌🏼 I absolutely LOVED the 1980s setting of this story & happily lost sleep to read it.
January 25, 2026
first English, then Ukrainian
4.5⭐️
Well, that was good.
I really liked the atmosphere in the book: the 80s, a small town, a harsh snowy winter.
Ilsa's life has been pretty rough: her dad died, she's got a weird relationship with her supposedly best friend, plus problems at school with literally everyone, her colleagues, students, and their parents. Oh, and she's being threatened. But Ilsa's character is super strong and confident. She and Cosi are a very harmonious couple; he is a caring green flag for her. Their relationship is well written: their experiences, falling in love, past traumas, a dash of drama and nerves.
Spencer and his friendship with Ilsa have a special place in my heart; it was very sweet.
I didn't wonder who the villain was in this story, I just enjoyed reading it, so the main twist was unexpected. But when you think about it, there were so many traumatized people there. One problem led to another, and everything piled up like a snowball. 😥
I read the book almost in one sit. I'll definitely come back to this series when the sequel comes out. 🤗
4,5⭐️
ох, це було добре.
мені дуже сподобалась атмосфера в книзі: 80-ті, маленьке містечко, сувора сніжна зима.
на Ілсу в житті, звісно звалилося багато всього: смерть батька, незрозуміло що в відносинах з нібито ліпшим другом, проблеми в школі, буквально з усіма, колегами, учнями, та їх батьками. ще й переслідувач. та сама Ілса дуже сильна за характером та впевнена в собі. їхня пара з Касі дуже гармонійна, він турботливий зелений прапорець для неї. гарно прописані відносини: їхні переживання, закоханість, травми минулого, дрібка драми та нервів.
окреме місце в сердечку займає Спенсер та їхня дружба з Ілсою, це було дуже мило.
я не гадала над тим хто в цій історії був поганцем, просто насолоджувала��я читанням, тому головний твіст був неочікуваний. але якщо подумати, скільки ж там травмованих людей виявилося. одна проблема потягнула за собою іншу і все накопичилося як снігова груда. 😥
книга прочитана буквально на одному диханні. з задоволенням повернуся до цієї серії, як буде продовження 🤗
4.5⭐️
Well, that was good.
I really liked the atmosphere in the book: the 80s, a small town, a harsh snowy winter.
Ilsa's life has been pretty rough: her dad died, she's got a weird relationship with her supposedly best friend, plus problems at school with literally everyone, her colleagues, students, and their parents. Oh, and she's being threatened. But Ilsa's character is super strong and confident. She and Cosi are a very harmonious couple; he is a caring green flag for her. Their relationship is well written: their experiences, falling in love, past traumas, a dash of drama and nerves.
Spencer and his friendship with Ilsa have a special place in my heart; it was very sweet.
I didn't wonder who the villain was in this story, I just enjoyed reading it, so the main twist was unexpected. But when you think about it, there were so many traumatized people there. One problem led to another, and everything piled up like a snowball. 😥
I read the book almost in one sit. I'll definitely come back to this series when the sequel comes out. 🤗
4,5⭐️
ох, це було добре.
мені дуже сподобалась атмосфера в книзі: 80-ті, маленьке містечко, сувора сніжна зима.
на Ілсу в житті, звісно звалилося багато всього: смерть батька, незрозуміло що в відносинах з нібито ліпшим другом, проблеми в школі, буквально з усіма, колегами, учнями, та їх батьками. ще й переслідувач. та сама Ілса дуже сильна за характером та впевнена в собі. їхня пара з Касі дуже гармонійна, він турботливий зелений прапорець для неї. гарно прописані відносини: їхні переживання, закоханість, травми минулого, дрібка драми та нервів.
окреме місце в сердечку займає Спенсер та їхня дружба з Ілсою, це було дуже мило.
я не гадала над тим хто в цій історії був поганцем, просто насолоджувала��я читанням, тому головний твіст був неочікуваний. але якщо подумати, скільки ж там травмованих людей виявилося. одна проблема потягнула за собою іншу і все накопичилося як снігова груда. 😥
книга прочитана буквально на одному диханні. з задоволенням повернуся до цієї серії, як буде продовження 🤗
January 21, 2026
This was a quiet, emotional small-town romance with just the right touch of suspense. Ilsa returns home after her father’s death, trying to uncover how he lived and how he really died, which drives much of the tension. Cosi, the town sheriff, is patient, steady, and deeply grounded — his presence adds both protection and emotional stability as Ilsa navigates grief, family secrets, and trust.
The plot follows Ilsa piecing together her father’s past while slowly letting Cosi in. Their romance develops naturally, through shared history, quiet moments, and emotional vulnerability rather than instant sparks. I also really loved how Ilsa connected with Cosi’s son — their growing bond adds warmth and makes their relationship feel even more real and grounded. The suspense around her father’s life and death keeps the story moving and adds depth to her healing journey.
The plot follows Ilsa piecing together her father’s past while slowly letting Cosi in. Their romance develops naturally, through shared history, quiet moments, and emotional vulnerability rather than instant sparks. I also really loved how Ilsa connected with Cosi’s son — their growing bond adds warmth and makes their relationship feel even more real and grounded. The suspense around her father’s life and death keeps the story moving and adds depth to her healing journey.
December 8, 2025
This was a small-town mystery-filled, fast-paced romance. The story revolves around Cosi, a single dad cop, and Ilsa, a single woman and teacher who returns to her childhood home to start anew and resolve her deceased father’s affairs. I believe the narrators did an incredible job bringing this story to life. However, I felt the romance was rushed. I wish it had developed gradually before giving them such an instant connection. The plot centered around the mystery of her father’s gold discovery, but I didn’t find the backstory of the mystery well-developed, which made me less interested in the mystery aspect than I had hoped. I predicted the villain early on, which was disappointing because when it was revealed, it felt anticlimactic. The love story, particularly the relationship between Ilsa and Cori’s son, was my favorite part. I genuinely enjoyed the storyline, but I felt certain aspects of the story were underdeveloped and lacked depth. I felt somewhat detached and unengaged throughout the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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Want to read
November 21, 2025Inspired by Tom Selleck? Student's father? SIGN ME UP
January 2, 2026
First read of 2026 complete! I always like to start with a fave author of mine so Devney for the win. This is the first book of a new series by our small town queen. Overall I enjoyed it. I loved Ilsa, Cosi, and Spencer so much. Even if I kept wanting to sing Do you want to build a snowman? after mishearing her name lol. It is set in the 80’s which I think could have plaid a bigger part in the setting. And the reveal at the end was a bit rushed for me. Other than that, I was a fan and can’t wait for this series to continue.
January 11, 2026
4,5 ⭐
Все ж таки, пані Перрі для мене - королева романтичного саспенсу. Так вміло все поєднує, що серце завмирає й історія читається на одному диханні.
Мені дуже сподобалась атмосфера: 80-і, зимова Монтана, золотошукачі. Як свіжий подих у цьому однотипному потоці фальшивок.
Головні герої прекрасні. Вони щирі і відкриті, не ховаються за масками красивих слів.
Але кінцівка, як на мене вийшла, трохи зашвидка. Це той випадок, коли хотілося б ще і ще.
Все ж таки, пані Перрі для мене - королева романтичного саспенсу. Так вміло все поєднує, що серце завмирає й історія читається на одному диханні.
Мені дуже сподобалась атмосфера: 80-і, зимова Монтана, золотошукачі. Як свіжий подих у цьому однотипному потоці фальшивок.
Головні герої прекрасні. Вони щирі і відкриті, не ховаються за масками красивих слів.
Але кінцівка, як на мене вийшла, трохи зашвидка. Це той випадок, коли хотілося б ще і ще.
January 2, 2026
4.5⭐️
I really enjoyed the romance between Cosi and Ilsa. It just felt so easy between them? Like their personalities match so well and they get along and have great chemistry. Just so cute. Ilsa is used to doing everything on her own and keeping her chin up despite the problems she's having in town. Cosi is a provider and protector who's love language is acts of service. Constantly helping out people around town, going out of his way for others and keeping Ilsa safe. I loved it. I especially loved the scenes with Spencer, Cosi's teenage son. They were just so heartwarming.
Despite the fact that this story is a suspense it has such a cozy vibe to me. Like 80s small-town, snowed it with the fire on type vibes. I did think that the gold story would end up being a bigger deal? Like I thought we would see Ilsa and Cosi actively searching for gold and treasure hunting, instead of just passively trying to figure out what Isla's dad's letters meant.
"My world seemed to change in an instant. It toppled end over end, and when the spinning stopped, the pieces of my universe had been rearranged. All from a single smile."Adored this, just like I knew I would. A great start to DP's Lost Legend series, we're back in small-town Montana in 1983. Ilsa returns to Dalton, the town she was born, to settle her estranged father's estate. She takes a temporary position teaching math at the local high school and has a few run in with Cosi, the town's sheriff. The two had an instant attraction that they both temporarily tried to resist, but end up giving in to.
I really enjoyed the romance between Cosi and Ilsa. It just felt so easy between them? Like their personalities match so well and they get along and have great chemistry. Just so cute. Ilsa is used to doing everything on her own and keeping her chin up despite the problems she's having in town. Cosi is a provider and protector who's love language is acts of service. Constantly helping out people around town, going out of his way for others and keeping Ilsa safe. I loved it. I especially loved the scenes with Spencer, Cosi's teenage son. They were just so heartwarming.
Despite the fact that this story is a suspense it has such a cozy vibe to me. Like 80s small-town, snowed it with the fire on type vibes. I did think that the gold story would end up being a bigger deal? Like I thought we would see Ilsa and Cosi actively searching for gold and treasure hunting, instead of just passively trying to figure out what Isla's dad's letters meant.
January 9, 2026
Great story. Intriguing plot? Heartwarming connections and a lesson about finding those who feel like true family.
January 14, 2026
4 Stars ⭐️
January 22, 2026
So good!! I loved everything about this. The small town vibe in Montana. The difficult relationship between the heroine, her deceased father and all the townspeople. The single dad and the relationship the heroine develops with his son. The mystery behind the things happening to her and how protective the hero becomes. It all just worked and helped to make this a book one that I couldn’t put down. I hope there will be more to come from this small town.
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