Grace Chapman finds herself back in her hometown of Jackson, Wyoming for her brother’s wedding. Little does her family know, she just lost her dream job but always the optimist, she’s going to take the opportunity to extend her stay and ski the slopes she grew up on. When a charismatic rockstar makes her an offer to work for him, she refuses… the first time.
After stepping out of the spotlight, Tommy Jacob, or TJ to his close friends, is just trying to enjoy a quiet life. Having spent years on stage in front of screaming fans, he’s finding peace near the water, fishing and swimming laps. TJ is content living out his days with a fishing rod in hand, rather than a guitar. Or so he thinks until a burst of color splashes into his life, changing everything.
These two might have been on different life paths, but their connection is something the universe won’t let them ignore.
Will they work together and drown out the world around them to make their own FRESH TRACKS?
I’m an avid skier and traveler from Ohio. When I’m not writing, you can find me enjoying time outside, ideally in the mountains with my partner and our fur babies. The joy of getting in a car and driving across the country to explore is unmatched, and also a great time to check off the romance novels from my never ending TBR… and who doesn’t love that?
I am absolutely enamored with the On the Slopes series and was so excited to get to Grace and TJ’s story. I didn’t think that I was going to read a story that would have beaten Tanner and Veronica’s… but I think that this one takes the cake! I LOVED our MCs. Like… aggressively. 😂 TJ is my ideal book boyfriend: a teensie bit grumpy, devoted, and so down bad it’s INSANE. Grace was similarly lovable. She’s a free spirit with ‘squirrels in her brain’ (her words!), but she knows what she deserves, what she wants and how she wants to get it. Her determination and tenacity both in her career and her love life was so excellently written. I loved the heat of their relationship, the build to the explosion and the culmination of the story in the third act. I was definitely crying, totally emotional at what happened, and the way Dakota told the story was wonderful. I’m so happy with how this trilogy ended, but simply cannot wait to see where Dakota’s writing takes us next.
What I Loved About This Story: ✨Age gap (he’s 42, she’s 27) ✨Retired Rockstar ✨Boss x Employee ✨I was grinning, giggling and my toesies were kicking! ✨Some really, really delicious spice!
Thank you Dakota Forest for the free copy of this book. I’m so grateful to be on your team and elated to be in your corner!!!
Here I am booking my tickets to Jackson, Wyoming so I can find a rich, older rockstar to fall for.
Ok, maybe I'm not, but this book might convince you to.
Grace, new unemployed, is running to hide in her hometome. TJ just wants to be out of the spotlight and attempt to live a normal, peaceful life. Everything changes for both Grace and TJ when Grace comes splashing (literally) in his life.
Sweet, funny and full of slow burn, forbidden attraction moments that us romance readers melt over, FRESH TRACKS is the perfect addition to the ON THE SLOPES series. I cannot say enough about how fun Dakota Forest has made this series, it's perfect as we enter the chilly season!
Due out October 23rd, I thank the author for an advanced copy, I had such a good time with Grace and TJ!
This might be my favorite book of the whole series. Grace and TJ were everything. Fifteen years between the two, and aside from Grace constantly giving him shit about his age, you’d never know because Grace is such an old soul. The chemistry, and angst, and yearning between these two was off the charts. I loved that Grace finally took matters into her own hands because she was tired of waiting on TJ to figure it out. I loved her determination in all things, but especially her love life and her career. TJ was a bit grumpy but down so so bad for our girl. This was just an overall feel-good story with a little bit excitement/dramatica in the last 10% of the book, but it was all executed and done so well.
Thank you to Dakota for an ARC of Fresh Tracks. I’ve loved and enjoyed the Chapman siblings’ stories so much! I cannot wait to see what you do next.
read if you love: billionaire, forbidden, brother’s friend, age gap (27/42), former rockstar MMC, small town, found family, pierced FMC
Thank you so much Dakota Forest for the eARC! My rating: 4/5⭐️ Spice: 3/5🌶️
Read if you like: ❄️ Age gap ❄️ Workplace romance (boss x employee) ❄️ Brother’s best friend
As always, Dakota Forest never misses! Fresh Tracks has that same fun, spicy, and addictive vibe I’ve come to expect from this series. But I have to say, the tropes in this one were so good! The age gap and brother’s best friend combo gave the perfect amount of tension, and it’s got that forbidden edge that keeps you flipping pages nonstop.
Grace was such a fun FMC to follow, and TJ honestly stood out as one of the most unique MMCs in the series. Their chemistry felt natural yet fresh, and I loved how their relationship brought out Grace’s personality even more!
One of my favorite parts was the found family dynamic. I loved seeing how the characters from the previous book show up again here. It made everything feel familiar and cozy! The mix of romance, friendship, and family dynamics just worked so well together.
If I had to nitpick, some parts of the writing felt a bit repetitive and a few chapters dragged a little, but that didn’t stop me from enjoying it! Overall, Fresh Tracks is such a fun romance, perfect for a winter read! (yes, it involves skiing ❄️🎿)
Rating: 4⭐️| Spice: 3 🌶️ Pub Date 📆: October 23, 2025
Thank you @dforestwrites for the #gifted ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, it was a wonderful read 📚💖
The third and final installment to the On the Slope Series was everything I needed to close this chapter of the Chapman Siblings 🥰
When Grace Chapman returns home to Jackson, Wyoming for her brother’s wedding, she’s hiding the sting of losing her dream job. What was meant to be a short visit turns into something much more when a reclusive rock star, TJ, makes her an unexpected offer. Between mountain slopes, quiet mornings, and undeniable chemistry, Grace and TJ discover that sometimes the universe has plans that rewrite everything.
Grace is bright, adventurous, and full of heart, even when life throws her off course. TJ, the broody ex-rocker craving peace after years in the spotlight, brings a quiet intensity and warmth that balances her wild spirit. Their connection is electric with a quiet understanding and support.
I am generally not a huge fan of slow burn but this one was so worth it! Their chemistry was intense with the perfect amount of tension. This is the perfect ending for this series and I’m so thankful Dakota let me tag along as an early reader. Definitely a must add to TBR!
I have been anxiously awaiting these two since Lizzy and Clay’s story and when I tell you they ddi not disappoint…..WHEW 😮💨
When the littlest Chapman finds herself unemployed and unsure of what to do next she finds a solution in a place she’d never expect. Her brother’s friend and former rockstar Tommy Jacobs. After meeting Grace months ago, TJ hasn’t been able to get her off his mind and when the opportunity arises to not only be around Grace but to help her succeed- he can’t help himself. As the two mix business and pleasure they realize their feelings are starting to grow as well as Grace’s ideas for Tommy’s future.
Did Grace and TJ become my new favorite couple??? Sorry Lizzy and Clay 😅 I loved getting to see more of the elusive TJ not only through Grace’s eyes but his own inner turmoil. And Grace not only excelling in what she does best but not letting Tommy hide behind his own insecurities and seeing him trust her and trust them? Perfection.
It has been such an honor to have been a part of watching the growth these stories have taken throughout the first three books in this series. Thank you so much to Dakota for this eARC for review 🖤 Grace + TJ’s story is available now!
I received this as an ARC. I really enjoyed it. I lt was a quick read that kept me entertained. Grace was just quirky enough to not be your typical main character. Now planning on going back to read the rest of the series.
Fresh Tracks is like a cozy winter getaway, complete with emotional baggage, flirty banter, and one reclusive ex-rockstar who’s as broody as a snowstorm. Grace’s return to her hometown sets the stage for second chances, found family, and just enough spice to fog up your ski goggles.
It’s warm, witty, and feels like wrapping yourself in a blanket that occasionally winks at you. Some deliciously predictable moments, but honestly, who’s complaining when the vibes are this good?
Perfect for anyone who likes their romance with heart, humour, and a light dusting of snow (and smoulder).
📚 Series or Standalone: Series (Book 3 in On the Slopes series) but can be read as standalone 🌶 Spice-O-Meter: 🫠 Mild tingle (you’ll survive without a fan) ✅
💋 Tropes & Shenanigans - Dual POV - Age gap - Small town - Former Rockstar - Billionaire Boss x Employee - Open door spice 😍 - Found family
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (plus half a 🌶 for snowy-mountain flirting that melted my cold little heart)
Grace Chapman heads home to Jackson, Wyoming for her brother’s wedding—newly jobless but determined to enjoy the slopes and figure out her next move. Rockstar-turned-recluse TJ offers her a job, which she turns down… at first. TJ left fame behind for a quiet life, but Grace’s energy pulls him in fast. They’re total opposites, but their connection is undeniable.
Since receiving this ARC, I started this series and I’ve enjoyed each book of the On the Slopes series. I didn’t think anything could top Clay and Lizzie but honestly? This one might’ve done it. I was completely hooked.
TJ and Graces chemistry was 🔥, the slow build to their relationship had me screaming. Dakota absolutely nailed it with this one.
I’m so happy with how the trilogy wrapped up — it was the perfect ending — but I’m also already counting down the days until Dakota’s next book. Let’s goo!
🌟Slow Burn 🌟Forbidden Romance 🌟Age Gap 🌟He falls first
Thank you to Dakota Forest for sending this ARC. 4.5 Stars
Fresh Tracks by Dakota Forest is the third book in the On the Slope series.
✨ What can you expect? 🏔️ Small-Town Romance ⛷️ Skiers 💞 Age-Gap (27/42) 🎸 Ex-Rockstar 💼 Billionaire Boss x Employee 🏡 Found Family 🏕️ Forced Proximity 💔 No Third-Act Breakup
⭐️ 4 | 🌶️ 3
Grace Chapman is the youngest of the Chapman siblings, and after her accident, her dad and brothers have been a little too protective. Now that she’s lost her job at a charity, she refuses to let them rescue her again. Back in Jackson, Wyoming, for her brother’s wedding, Grace decides to stay in her travel van—living freely, skiing, and embracing her independence.
Enter Tommy “TJ” Jacobs, a former member of the Teal Tigers rock band. He offers Grace a job managing his charitable donations, something she reluctantly accepts. What she doesn’t know is that TJ has been infatuated with her since the day they met seven months ago.
Music used to be TJ’s life, but fame drained the joy out of it. Grace brings light back into his world. Their chemistry is undeniable, their banter so good, and TJ… oh, TJ is the sweetest. Coming from foster care, he built a life of success with his brother Jake, but he’s still grounded, caring, and humble.
He hesitates at first. She's his friend’s little sister, after all, but Grace knows what she wants and doesn’t hold back. I loved her boldness and how she went after him unapologetically. And when TJ finally gives in? The way he calls her Rainbow and his girl, doing the little things that show how much he cares, pure swoon. He respects her boundaries, admires her independence, and treats her exactly how she deserves.
Their romance builds beautifully, full of warmth and healing. But let’s talk about spice. Hot tub, windows, mirrors, and yes… a swing. TJ’s has a filthy mouth, and she definitely doesn’t hold back, and their chemistry? AMAZING!
The character growth was incredible. Watching TJ step out of his comfort zone was so fulfilling. They truly completed each other.
Grace’s friend Josie had me laughing, calling TJ Hot Daddy was hilarious 😂. And seeing the Chapman brothers, Veronica, Lizzy, and Collin again made it even better.
I really connected with Grace’s perspective on independence after trauma. When people see you as fragile, it’s hard to remind them that you’re capable. I related deeply, after my own accident, regaining that independence meant everything, and I loved that Grace fought for hers too.
TJ’s backstory hit me in the heart. Seeing him finally find love and family after growing up in foster care was beautiful.
This book was amazing, and I had such a great time reading it! If you love small-town, give this series a chance.
Thank you, Dakota, for letting me be part of your ARC team from the very beginning. It’s been incredible watching your growth as an author.
I received an advance copy of this book, and this review reflects my honest thoughts.
✮ Spicy tropes: Mirror play, She’s pierced, 💦in👖, Phone sex, Creative use of swings, He pushes it back in, The boots stay on…
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📚Book 3 - Final book in the interconnected ‘On The Slopes’ series (can be read as a standalone) [Books 1 & 2 - ‘Full Send’ & ‘Fall Apart’ are available to read on kindleunlimited]
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✧ SUMMARY & CHARACTERS ✧
☑️ Would I recommend this book? Hell yeah!
Fresh Tracks is a slow burn, age gap, open door romance full of palpable chemistry, comedic banter & spice that will knock. your. socks. off. (seriously) Not only does Dakota’s immersive writing put you smack bang in the middle of the small snowy, ski town, it also makes this an unputdownable, engaging story that can easily be read in one sitting.
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• FMC Grace is a witty, strong willed, confident Queen who knows exactly what she wants & how to get it - a wallflower she most certainly is not! Instead of allowing past trauma to weigh her down, she uses it to push herself forward in life. Such an amazing character.
• MMC TJ is a slightly grumpy, retired musician who’s kind of alright in the bedroom 👀 He’s a complex character with a difficult past but still such a sweet soul. I loved that Grace was able to bring back the light & excitement that was missing from his life.
Ok, these 2 were literally two halves of a whole. A match made in heaven, yin to yang… you catch my drift? Chef’s kiss Dakota, chef’s kiss💋
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✧ FINAL TAKEAWAY ✧
What a way to end the series! This book had me from the start, I laughed, cried, gasped & giggled like a schoolgirl - you name it, I felt it. Grace & TJ were fantastic characters & I loved their journey, both together & as individuals. I was a little dubious about the age gap as for me it’s a trope that’s totally hit or miss, however Grace & TJ (well, Dakota Forest!) scored, dunked, sunk a hole in one & hit it out of the park😍 This is a top tier cozy winter read & perfect for anyone who enjoys a sweet & spicy romance with yearning & tension.
📣 A huge thank you to Dakota Forest for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. This is my honest opinion & I’m sharing it voluntarily.
This is my third ARC from Dakota and I’m so grateful to have been given the opportunity to be a part of this journey! I can absolutely say that from book 1 to now, her writing has improved, and the characters and story are developing consistently.
Overall this one was a fun journey, Grace is spunky and confident which is refreshing. I actually was not as big of a fan of TJ as I would have liked. I wanted him to be just a smidge more secure in himself as a hunky heartthrob. But it does kind of track with his background.
There were a couple important scenarios or aspects to the story that I felt were glossed over. Really fleshing out these life-changing, character-building moments would help me as a reader to connect with and care about the characters more.
The spice was spicinggggg. Not entirely rivaling the plot but I’d say it’s a major aspect of the book. It’s a bit much for me, but if a smutty ski-town romance is your thing - pick this one up for sure!
I committed to reading this trio of stories because I was so honored to be asked to be an early reader, and I know it’s so important for smaller authors to have all kinds of feedback. But I don’t think that I will continue to pick up the next collection of books purely because of the spice level. If not for that, these would be nice, easy read, low-stakes romcoms that just about anyone could enjoy.
"Maybe he’s the calm and steady to my fast and free."
Fresh Tracks is such a heartfelt, satisfying read.
What a spectacular end to the series! While I’m definitely sad to see the Chapman siblings’ story come to a close, I’m so happy I got to be along for the ride. This final chapter felt like the perfect send-off.
Grace is an absolute force, confident, smart, gorgeous, fearless, and completely unapologetic about who she is. I loved how she stood in her truth and didn’t shrink herself for anyone. Her need for freedom and to be seen as the strong woman she is really hit home for me. She honestly feels like every girl’s inner voice speaking out loud.
And TJ or Tommy, if you’re in his inner circle, is the most low-key, chill guy, and I loved that about him. A handsome, talented, kindest former rockstar who’s stepped away from the spotlight, just trying to find peace, he unexpectedly finds his spark again when he meets Grace. Their chemistry is instant and electric.
Their individual backstories were emotional and deep, and that really added so much weight and meaning to their journey together. This wasn’t just a romance. It was about healing, growth, and finding someone who truly sees you, a person to call home.
- age gap - billionaire MMC - brothers friend - employee/employer
This was a sweet read with no third act break up which we looooove.
Grace loves to give back, so when she loses her job at a charity she feels like she can't tell her family. In swoops TJ the rich musician her family knows, and 15 years her senior. TJ has been obsessed with Grace since he first saw her 7 months ago and he can not get her out of his mind.
After finding out that Grace lost her job he hastily offers her one with him.
TJ comes from a foster family and Grace lost her mum in a car crash around 10 years ago.
They both healed each other a little and I loved the quick little twist at the end, adding in my favourite micro trope. But I won't ruin that for anyone!
"Because you have the heart of someone who's lived a thousand lives. I wish I knew you in each and every one of them because this one sure as hell isn't enough."
"You have a thing for mirrors and being watched?" I ask, looking at him over my shoulder. He shakes his head. "You're so fucking beautiful when you're about to come. I want you to see it now take off that bra and eyes on us."
Don’t know how it happened but I liked this one better than book 2 which had the tropes I prefer, so I guess it all lies in the writing or “just the vibes”.
What to expect: -age gap (which I’m not a fan of, and it was a big one (15years) BUT there was not that much emphasis on it, and Grace wasn’t childish or anything like that so unless it was mentioned (which again: wasn’t that often!) you could totally forget about their exact age) -retired rock star (but not your stereotypical one!!) -brother’s (best) friend (dealt with very nicely, without much dramatics, just “the perfect amount”) -a lot of skiing (I didn’t mind it but consider it if you’re not into skiing or not interested in reading a book with quite heavy skiing background) -spicyyyy spice
I would call it a low stakes, good time, highly enjoyable romance with some nice (😈) spicy scenes.
When I say low stakes, I mean it in a best way. It wasn’t overly dramatic, simply a good time story, with a bit of more dramatic action in the last 10%, but I liked it a lot, I think it was fitting and overall the whole story was nicely executed.
Ooh man. First thing, Grace is the stuff of dreams. Strong, independent, tatted, pierced *winkwink*, features Docs (girl after my own heart) and flannels. Instant love at first read. Then there's my man TJ. The definition of "only soft for her" vibes and I'm here for it! Ugh! Stahp.
Anywayyy, great book and beautifully written with banter and fun and family and cuddles and more. Super cosy, slow burn romance where the MMC is all in from the moment he lays eyes on her, there's moments of angst but not as much as I usually like (but I'm a sucker for ANGST *insert YEEAAHH Huntrix gif*). Howeverrrr, there's three words (no it's not I love you) that TJ says, towards the end of the book, that always gets me riled up, but I don't want to spoil it for y'all. I getting off topic as usual, but I liked the book a lot, there's lots of spice but it is slow burn so you do have to be patient, which I am not, but it is top class.
I also love the music elements added to the story, it was fun to watch the characters develop and grow with each other and their interests. I liked it a lot though, so thank you Dakota Forest for trusting me to review your book early! Grace is *chef's kiss*!
This was absolutely perfect! Such a fun, beautiful, spicy read!
I have been so excited for this book! I had already fallen in love with both Grace and TJ in the previous books, and couldn’t wait to get their story. When Grace gets laid off from her job, TJ steps in offering her the perfect work opportunity doing what she loves, and giving himself the closeness to her he is craving.
The connection between TJ and Grace is there from the very beginning. I loved watching it grow and deepen. They build a beautiful foundation based on trust and an understanding of each other. He gives her safety and stability and she shows him how to feel and live again. He’s the calm to her wild. They are each other’s perfect match and we are the lucky ones that get to watch it all happen.
Fresh Tracks is full of the best banter, found family, laughter, tenderness, love, and spice so hot I’m surprised there was any snow left on the mountain! Seriously, a couple of those scenes will forever live rent free in my mind!
This story felt like a warm and spicy hug on a cold winter night. Dakota had me fully captivated from the first page, and after that bonus scene I am dying for what’s to come!
Tropes: 💙Age gap ❄️Brothers best friend 💙Workplace romance ❄️Grumpy/Sunshine 💙Forced proximity ❄️Retired rockstar 💙Skiers ❄️Found Family
My Review
I really enjoyed every second of this book! It was such a fun read, and the banter was out of this world! The tension? Off the charts. The payoff? Pure heat.🔥 Brother's best friend and age gap? A combination that I absolutely love!!! Fresh tracks is honestly the perfect winter romance.🥰❤️
I absolutely loved our FMC Grace, she's so fun and sweet and just a big ball of sunshine! She's running back to her hometown to rebuild her life and she's refusing to let her dad and brothers who are really protective rescue her so she's living in her travel van! She's loving every minute of her independence!
TJ our MMC is a retired rockstar and used to be a member of the Teal Tigers. He's trying to live a normal life as much as possible after being in the eye for so long. He's our big grump but definitely is the sweetest too!
The chemistry between them was so electric and undeniable. I truly enjoyed the writing of this book and the story was chefs kiss! Fresh Tracks is available NOW! 🫶🥰
This is book 3 but you can read it as a standalone. It’s interconnected to book 1&2 so it does have spoilers for the couples in the first 2 books, surprise, those characters are together.
This book followed TJ, retired rockstar - the moody, broody reclusive MMC. & his best friends little sister, Grace. Grace is a bit of a nomad in her sprinter van and she’s a ski fanatic (shocking right, this series has taught me everything I need to know about skiing). Oh, and Grace is pierced - everywhere…
Anyway, they met months ago and can not get each other out of their minds but they are forbidden, off limits. Grace finds herself in need of a job and TJ is a caregiving billionaire, who has an opening for an employee (or makes one for Grace). Enter forced proximity into the chat. Will close quarters ignited their fire? Will her brother disown them all if temptation wins?
Tropes: Best friends sister Age gap So much skiing Billionaire
Fun micro tropes: She’s pierced. He finishes in his pants
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Fresh Tracks is the third and final book in the On The Slopes series. It is an age-gap, contemporary, standalone, small town, winter sports romance with a former rockstar, boss/employee, billionaire, forced proximity, found family themes. The story is told in first person, dual POV.
Grace returns to her small town home for a wedding after losing her job. When TJ, the ex-rockstar, offers her a job, she immediately refuses, but that refusal does not stand and she begins working for him.
I adored Grace and TJ's story. I loved seeing their relationship develop. I loved their amazing chemistry and the spice. I enjoyed Grace's tenacity and TJ's grumpy attitude, and I loved how these two fit perfectly together. I also really enjoyed their amazing town and all the winter themes.
The writing, plot, pace, characters, storytelling, world building, and character development were all terrific. If you are looking for a winter themed, small town romance with terrific MC's then I'd absolutely recommend this book.
I was so excited to receive this art from a new-to-me author. The tropes were right up my alley, and I had heard good things about the other books in the series. I also LOVED the cover art.
What I loved: 🎵 Grace is a fabulous FMC. She's strong, knows what she wants, and isn't afraid to ask for. She's a tattooed, pierced woman who falls for our MMC, TJ.
🎵 I liked the former Rockstar trope.
🎵 TJ is HOT (helloooo pierced eyebrow and tats) and is an absolute gonner for Grace
🎵 Some great spice
What fell flat: 🎵 There seemed to be a lot of repetition. I didn't feel invested in TJ and Grace's relationship.
🎵 The flashbacks were good, but their placement seemed odd. At one point, i had to go back and reread the prologue as I thought I'd missed a huge chunk of the storyline. A flashback a few chapters later filled in the gaps, but it was a weird placement.
🎵 Graces job with TJ was odd. I didn't fully understand how it could be a full-time job.
Received as an arc and was an all around good book. I loved the age gap, I’m currently around the same age as Grace so I could plant myself in her position and now i want my own older rockstar😂
I wished there was a bit more storytelling on TJ’s background with his band. I know he said it’s a sore subject but we only got one real interaction with him and the band. It could be a personal thing where I’m nosey but i felt Grace should have been told everything that happened especially with his ex. I mean she just shows up and tries to boss Grace around and he doesn’t really explain why or how she’s with one of his other bandmates.
I haven’t read the other two books but will be going back to read. Hopefully we get a bit more context to certain things but really i loved her brothers and their partners so i want to see how they are!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Fresh Tracks by Dakota Forest is a captivating age gap romance with characters that surprised me with their magnetic chemistry. From the first encounter, the connection between the leads felt electric, longing, vulnerable, and I feel a sense of inevitability that kept me turning the pages. What stood out most was how respectfully and thoughtfully the age difference was handled. The pacing quick but intentional, allowing space for quiet moments and meaningful conversations in between our bigger plot points. Their bond felt somewhat natural and by the end, I was rooting for them wholeheartedly. If you’re drawn to romances that explore connection across differences, with a lot of heart, Fresh Tracks definitely is worth the read. Thank you Dakota Forest for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Fresh Tracks by Dakota Forest was such a fun surprise. I went in expecting a straightforward sports/music romance and ended up getting so much more — layered characters, genuine emotional depth, and a romance that actually felt earned. 💜
What really stood out to me was how well the story balanced strength and vulnerability. The FMC owns her story without ever losing her softness, and the dynamic between her and the MMC was chef’s kiss. Their connection felt authentic, deep, and wonderfully swoony.
I also loved how the book blended heartfelt emotion with laugh-out-loud sweetness and just the right amount of spice. One minute I was smiling, the next tearing up, and the next blushing so hard my husband asked what was going on. That emotional range is exactly what I look for in a romance.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 — Highly recommend for readers who love when music, sports, and love collide.
What a wrap up to the end of a series! On the Slopes has been a solid fave and Fresh Tracks did not disappoint! Another solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The love between TJ and Grace is beautiful. It grows and I loved reading it blossom. The window and mirror scenes though! 🤤🔥🥵
I do understand Grace’s older brother Tanner’s reservations about the couple considering TJ is her boss and is 15 years older. He is just looking out for his sister but that is the last thing Grace wants considering that has been her whole life. I get that side too.
An amazing read!
Fresh Tracks is out October 23rd. I highly recommend the whole On The Slopes series - Full Send and Fall Apart.
I received this book as an ARC and really enjoyed it. The snowy mountain setting was vivid and immersive, you can practically feel the cold air and hear the crunch of the fresh snow. The characters were easy to connect with, flawed but authentic, and their relationships carried both warmth and tension that kept me turning the pages.
The pacing moved well and the writing style made it a quick, engaging read. The only reason it’s not a full 5 stars for me is that a few beats were a little predictable, but overall it’s heartfelt, fun, and left me excited to see what Dakota Forest writes next!
4.5 This is my favorite book of this series! First, I'm a sucker for a good age gap romance, and this was it! Tommy(T.J.) and Grace are honestly the cutest couple. The banter between them is to die for. I love how strong of an FMC Grace is. She is independent and fiesty, but is a softy for Tommy. I love that Tommy lets her be who she is and doesn't try to dim her "Rainbow" in any way. They really compliment each other so well. Also, the spice is definitely another shining star. Mostly because of how connected they are. Thank you to Dakota for the early read!
She’s the baby sister & he’s a friend of her brothers. He’s an ex musician, recluse that likes a life of solitary. She loves jumping in her sprinter van for where adventure takes her. I will say this is the 3rd book in the series & I did feel a little lost with the characters since I didn’t have background/ character development. It’s starts off with Grace’s brother’s wedding where she and TJ reconnect from a past trip in OR. From there their relationship builds into more. Tropes: Age gap Grumpy MMC He falls first Brothers friend
I received this book as an ARC. It made me want to move to the mountains. The descriptions are just so beautiful! Grace and Tommy have really great chemistry, Tommy is super sweet and thoughtful and I aspire to have Grace's confidence!
4⭐️ Thank you Dakota for the ARC of Fresh Tracks! This story really drew me in with a mix of tropes a 15-year age gap, brother’s friend/colleague romance, and a rich ex-rockstar falling for a woman who’s just lost her job and is searching for clarity. I liked the way the story shaped itself, with the characters slowly finding their rhythm and connection. The large themes of personal growth, finding yourself, and allowing love back into your life were woven in beautifully. The snowy, mountain setting and winter sports made it feel like the perfect cozy winter read. The romance had depth, and warmth while still giving the excitement of forbidden attraction. Overall, I enjoyed the ride and felt connected to the characters’ journeys. My only complaint is that it was a little lengthy for a romance, but it was still worth the read. If you love emotional slow-burns with stunning wintry backdrops, this book would be good for you!