The Secret of Heart Mountain

Heart Mountain #2

by K.C. Lynn

All Legends hold Fragments of the Truth.

A mountain with a legend.

A sassy wedding planner in desperate need of a date.

A cocky firefighter she can’t stand… her only option.

Finding out your sister is marrying your ex is a major gut punch. The thought of showing up to the wedding solo? Even worse.

That’s exactly the situation Harlow Hayes is in, unless she finds a date—fast.

Enter Linc Masters.

Childhood nemesis turned local firefighter. The boy who tormented her every chance he got, now the man who lives to push every one of her buttons.

She can’t stand him, but desperate times call for desperate measures, and he might be the only one bold enough to pull it off.

The plan is fake the perfect love story, survive the weekend, go back to hating each other.

Only, the longer they pretend, the more the lines begin to blur.

Old memories resurface.

New sparks catch fire.

And the secret they buried that night on Heart Mountain has them questioning everything.

Like, maybe the legend isn’t just a story.

Maybe the villain was the hero all along.

And maybe—just maybe—the rivalry was only a disguise for something far more beautiful waiting to be told.

Genres: Fake Dating, Enemies To Lovers, Romance, Second Chance, He Falls First, Contemporary

201 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 15, 2025

About the author

K.C. Lynn is a small town girl living in Western Canada. She grew up in a family of four children—two sisters and a brother. Her mother was the lady who baked homemade goods for everyone on the street and her father was a respected man who worked in the RCMP. He’s since retired and now works for the criminal justice system. This being one of the things that inspires K.C. to write romantic suspense about the trials and triumphs of our heroes.

K.C. married her high school sweetheart and they started a big family of their own—two adorable girls and a set of handsome twin boys. They still reside in the same small town but K.C.’s heart has always longed for the south, where everyone says ‘y’all’ and eats biscuits and gravy for breakfast.

It was her love for romance books that gave K.C. the courage to sit down and write her own novel. It was then a beautiful world opened up and she found what she was meant to do…write.

When K.C.’s not spending time with her beautiful family she can be found in her writing cave, living in the fabulous minds of her characters and their stories.

Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author...

Reviews

[Megan ~The Never Ending Book Basket · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars

I have been reading and loving books by KC Lynn for years, and to be back in one of her books is truly the best place to be. Her books feel so genuinely good to read and experience. They have all the swoon, they have such fire and connection between her characters, and there was always so much heart to her stories. I have felt that in every book of hers and this one was no different. It encapsulated everything I’ve come to love about books by this author and it just had me completely enamored by everything that Harlow and Linc shared.

Now I have had the pleasure of reading every book in this series and they just continue to show me that Kc Lynn writes incredible small town romance that is packed with so much heart and connection and love. This book just personified that and it showed that while Linc and Harlow might like to push each other‘s buttons and get under each other’s skin, they also equally feel everything for each other. I loved getting to be in the thick of their dynamic, their tension, and every bit of connection and pull that continue to pull them closer and closer together. I truly could not get enough of it with them.

This book allows you to be in the best place with these two as they go from childhood enemies, to adult rivals who definitely feel something more for each other, to fake dating, to so much more. This book definitely takes them for a ride and you will be just beyond glad to go along on it with them. That ride is full of emotional moments, moments that will get your heart beating so fast, and moments that will show you that these characters are meant to find their way. Their second chance at seeing what could be and believing in that pull and connection that is so between them is absolutely everything, and you will love getting to see them give into it once and for all.

What I love about this book and every other book by this author, is the connection you truly feel to her characters. You just get them. You love them. You get them. You believe in them. You just root for them with all that you have. You also find yourself in the thick of it with a small town of characters you can’t help but love. I felt that in every single book by this author, and in KC Lynn‘s Heart Mountain series I felt that again and again. I truly can’t say enough good things about this small town and what this author creates in the magic of this world. It is sweet and spicy and swoony and it will have you believing in a legend that hopes for more. A legend that pushes and hopes and brings life to love and all the possibilities it can bring. And getting to be a part of each of these characters journeys as they feel that magic, as they experience it, and as they finally let themselves believe in, it is truly outstanding.

I just can’t say enough good things about this book. The way that Harlow and Linc banter back-and-forth is the best. Getting pieces of the past mixed in with a present just has you feeling their rivalry and their “enemy” state even more, but also will have you knowing that there’s so much more to it than that. The way these characters just feel everything for each other, the way that they truly get each other, and the way that they just can’t help but feel it all is truly the best. That coupled with the fire they bring out in one another, the way they see each other‘s real self, and the way they are actually able to be vulnerable with another makes for the perfect package. It truly shows that they are meant to be and that you can’t help but love them and what they share. Even when they drive each other crazy. It’s just the best and it makes for a hell of a love story.

I loved this book. It was a perfect addition to the series, and I loved everything these character shared. I believed in it, I believed in them, and I just loved getting to experience all of the emotions they shared as they did the work and experienced every second together of their love story. I also just loved being back in this world, and I am already chomping at the bit for more stories. I want so many stories from this world and so many more moments with the legend of Heart Mountain because this series is very special. It’s got a beautiful message to it, it’s got incredible characters, and it’s got a small town that I just love with my whole heart. I can’t wait to be back with all of these characters because this book just had me loving them and everything they gave me even more.

If you are a fan of this author or this series, you will love getting Harlow and Linc’s story. You will love their banter, you will love what they feel and share, and you will love how right they feel for one another. If this is your first time, jumping into a book by this author, then I also promise you, you will love it. This book will just make you feel good. It will make your heart happy. It will melt you and just have you feeling that spice, but more than that it will just have you feeling the love with these characters. KC Lynn once again wowed me with this book and what she delivered with this couple. She truly brings it all in this book and you will love it. You will love these characters and everything they share together. I promise you that!

I loved every part of this small town romance, and I loved getting to watch these enemies become so much more. Their connection is true, their love is real, and the magic that is created between them in the small town with a legend, that rings completely true, is absolutely beautiful to experience. This story definitely throws them for a loop a time or two, but it shows them again and again that they are the one person they can always count on and they were always meant to find their way back to each other. Getting to be in the heart of that connection and pull and moments with them as they find their way to one another is truly the best, and will have you just loving everything you get with them. And it will just make you love Harlow and Linc and their whole story with your whole heart.

Trust me.

[Michelle Krystel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an advanced reader's copy of this book and have decided to write a voluntary honest review. I have not read a book by Kc Lynn in a long time . I am sp glad I took a chance with this one. Definitely a 5 star read . I loved Linc and Harlow , I am hoping there is more to come with Penny , Hattie etc .

[Jovanna sanchez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhh Mrs. Kc Lynn has done it againnnnn!

OBSESSED, HOOKED, FELT ALL THE BUTTERFLIES 🦋

Something about an enemies to lovers/ one bed trope just gets me EVERYTIMEEEE!!! I ate this book up and left no crumbs behind. I just love the way K.C. Writes. It’s pure magic I swear she gets me gaga for the words she writes and I never want it to end.

In this book we meet Linc & Harlow which if you’ve read the other two books in this series the author sets it up and slowly sprinkles their storyline leading up to this book. Linc…. LINC!!! The man that he is 😆 he had me completely giddy and gave me the full butterfly effect because though we get this amazing banter/ back and fourth between him and Harlow we ALLLLL know what’s really going on…That man is irrevocably obsessed 🤣

I loved Harlow, she was an quick witted and spunky and gave Linc all that sass that sometimes he just had to “shut up” 🤭 I loved that though the main characters had their minor differences they always seemed to gravitate back together. That mountain wasn’t letting them slip too far away from each other 🤣 (iykyk)

I loved all the side characters and the friend group.
Kc Lynn always writes amazing characters you always want to know more about and or absolutely despiseeee like “finchy boy”.
Man, don’t get me started on that loser I’ll save you my ranting session because I can go on forever but just know he belongs in the LOSERS CLUB with Dr. Sissy again… (IYKYK- true Kc Lynn fans will understand) 🤣🫶

I highly recommend this series as a whole and everyone needs to stop sleeping on it/ Mrs. Kc Lynn and read her NOWWW 😅

[Debbie reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute, easy, enjoyable. I can’t say i had my socks knocked off, but i definitely found joy in reading this. I will say, I’ve been a KC Lynn reader going on 10 years now - Covid messed with her flow and she fell into a wee bit of a writer’s slump - but this is the first book in a while that feels like the men of honor KC Lynn. And maybe this isn’t fair thing to say, b/c I typically don’t go for these small town, cheesy romances (so i was already a tough audience), but i felt the writing in this installment was more on par with her earlier (and imo, superior) works. So i guess what im trying to say is that im excited for the future of this author.

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars:)

[Veronica Pham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5

•Lincoln & Harlow
Heart Mountain Book 2

*I was provided and eARC of this book by the author and their promotional team

I was absolutely ecstatic to be returning to Passion Falls, and I had so much fun ARC reading this one!! Linc and Harlow's story was just the sweet and swoony story I needed to get me in the fall mood!

Linc Masters and Harlow Hayes grew up next door to each other in their small town of Passion Falls. Instead of becoming best friends, they were fire and ice-- constantly bantering and playing pranks on each other. As the years go by, the stunts continue, but the banter becomes fun and flirty. One night after witnessing a another argument between Harlow and her parents, Linc finds her on Heart Mountain. They share one kiss with the promise to move forward, but the next day, Harlow's gone, forced to move away with her family.

Years later, she's back in Passion Falls, and these two picked right back up with the jabs and teasing. With a group of friends as tight as theirs, it impossible to avoid each other. When Harlow's sister and ex-boyfriend suddenly announce their engagement, Harlow blurts out that she'll be in attendance with her new boyfriend, who is nonother than Linc Masters. All Linc has ever wanted was show Harlow how he's always seen her and cares for her, so he agrees. Now, they'll have to survive Harlow's family, sharing a hotel room, and avoid the chemistry between them that has been waiting to combust since their kiss all those years ago...

I've been waiting to learn Linc & Harlow's story since we first met them in the novella, and K.C. gave me everything I hoped for in their book! My heart broke for Harlow and her situation, but I admired her resilience! Linc could not have been a better partner for her in the hard times! He is truly the book boyfriend every one hopes to find when they pick up a book! I fall more in love with this group and small town in every book, and I cannot wait to return to Passion Falls!

*available on KU

[Jamie Rhodes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, KC delivers a beautifully written contemporary romance that is an absolute must-read. This story brings together two unforgettable characters: Harlow, with her fiery, take-no-prisoners personality, and Linc, the quintessential brooding alpha male whose cocky grin and melting smirk will have you swooning from page one.

The chemistry between Harlow and Linc is electric. Their shared history, which began in their youth, crackles with unresolved tension and undeniable attraction. KC masterfully weaves in chapters from the past, giving readers a perfect map of their history that enriches their present-day interactions. The story is told from a dual point of view, allowing us to fully experience the emotional turmoil and growing feelings from both sides. This narrative choice shines during their interactions, which are filled with witty banter where each gives as good as they get, sending sparks flying in every scene. And for the pure romantics, the lantern scene is an absolute standout moment—a beautifully crafted, intimate scene that will stay with you long after you've finished.

One of KC’s greatest strengths is her ability to create a family environment that you can't help but fall in love with, and this book is no exception. Linc’s family is the epitome of warmth and support; their bond, camaraderie, constant teasing, and unconditional love are a joy to read, making you wish you could be a part of their circle. In contrast, Harlow’s family life is more complicated, particularly her strained relationship with her sister, which adds a layer of emotional depth and a realistic subplot of mending broken bonds.

For those wary of jumping into a series, you're in luck. While this book is part of a larger series, it can easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone. With a satisfying conclusion and no cliffhanger, it’s a perfect escape into a world of romance, family, and second chances.

[Mags · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

K.C. Lynn returns readers to Passion Falls with a story that demonstrates the fine line between love and hate. As Harlow and Lincoln have been rivals since childhood, engaging in pranks and trying to outdo each other as next-door neighbours. However, everything changes one night when Lincoln witnesses Harlow run off in distress. As he follows her and discovers that Harlow and her family are leaving town against her wishes. Then they share a heartfelt moment in front of the mountain, which holds a special legend for Harlow and many of the townspeople. But the next day, due to a misunderstanding, Harlow leaves without saying goodbye. Years later, she returns to town, determined to keep Lincoln Masters at a distance.

But when Harlow bumps into her sister Hattie and learns that Hattie is engaged to her ex-boyfriend, Harlow pretends that Lincoln is her boyfriend, and when the wedding invitation arrives for both Harlow and Lincoln, she realises that she has no choice but to persuade him to accompany her.

However, the weekend doesn't go as planned. Although Harlow and Lincoln’s chemistry ignites, leading to an unforgettable night together. Yet, the next day, Harlow disappears, leaving Lincoln frustrated and annoyed and Soon, they are back to their old ways of arguing.

But everything changes when Lincoln makes it clear that he’s done playing games and points out that fire and ice can be the perfect combination, especially in the hands of a skilled firefighter like him.

And with spicy moments, witty banter, small-town magic, and authentic enemies-to-lovers vibes, The Secret of Heart Mountain was an enjoyable read, and I loved returning to Passion Falls and I sincerely hope there are more stories to come.

My thanks to TAA and K.C. Lynn for my early copy of The Secret of Heart Mountain. All thoughts expressed are my own. 😊

[Sylviane BM · Rating 4 out of 5]

Je n’ai pas lu les tomes précédents, et cela ne m’a pas perturbé.

Le résumé m’a fait de l’oeil dès le début. Oui vous savez pourquoi, à cause du pompier et du small town trope.

J’ai bien aimé cette romance, qui parfois nous fait naviguer entre présent et passé, afin de nous montrer que sous cette haine, Linc a toujours eu un crush pour Harlow, et vice versa, mais à cause de certaines situations et bien ils se sont détestés. Et pour Linc se faire passer pour son petit copain le temps du mariage de sa soeur, c’est un peu poussé le bouchon.

Mais voilà Harlow a besoin de lui. Déjà affronter son ex qui est le futur marié, affronter sa soeur qui est la future mariée, affronter sa famille qui l’a toujours sous considérée, c’est un peu trop et elle a vraiment besoin de Linc, surtout pour faire tampon.

Or les apparence sont trompeuses. Elle qui pensait que sa soeur était heureuse, et bien elle se berce d’illusions, elle qui pensait ne rien ressentir pour Linc, et bien c’est pareil, illusion, car ok ils se détestent mais il est là quand il faut faire face à son ex et sa famille.

Harlow et Linc sont assez marrants tous les deux, et mignons.

Même si elle a toujours cherché l’approbation de sa famille, elle sait que c’est trop tard, et tout ce qui compte c’est son travail. MAis voilà ne pas croire au conte de fée et en l’amour en étant wedding planner c’est un peu trop. Alors Linc veut lui montrer qu’elle ne doit pas perdre espoir, elle fait bien des voeux avec ces pissenlits et ces akènes, car oui d’après la croyance, ces akènes vont vers les fées. Alors il doit retrouver cette petite fille, et puis ils vont devoir aussi travailler sur le fait qu’il y a beaucoup de non dit, des situations ont fait que les choses ont exagérées.

Dans tous les cas, j’ai beaucoup aimé cette romance et sans doute aura-t-on l’histoire sur la soeur, ou est-elle déjà sorti, à voir!

[Courtney Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I tell you I loved this story so much, I mean it.

The main characters, Harlow and Linc, are easily lovable, and I knew from the very beginning I was going to love their story and never want to finish it. The whole pranking and so-called “hatred” for one another was a great storyline for them because I think it fit their story well. I enjoyed the prologue and flashbacks where we got to see how their childhood into their teenage year shaped their current relationship after all the pranking they did to one another.

Honestly, I enjoyed the way the book was set up and how it was a quick and easy read that was well put together.

At the beginning, we think they truly hated one another (well, except in the prologue..) But as we progress further into the book, we see that they are trying to hide their true feelings for one another, and that all comes about when Harlow meets her sister and fiancé and confesses that Linc is her boyfriend, which leads them to invite both of them to her wedding. Of course, then that’s where we get into the real drama and overall climax of the story.

Harlow and Linc truly were amazing characters, and obviously, I was rooting for them from the very beginning because I just knew a childhood enemies to lovers was going to be entertaining. The chemistry and overall banter between the characters were amazing.

I loved it so much that, of course, I am going to recommend you read it as well as the other two books in the Heart Mountain series because K. C. Lynn sure knows how to bring us amazing books that we will for sure fall in love with!

[SoManyBooksGal · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a big K.C. Lynn fan (and I got to meet her recently at a book con), and she delivers again with this enemies to lovers, small town story. Harlow and Linc are childhood nemeses who have played pranks and driven each other crazy for as long as anyone can remember. They share a moment towards the end of Hugh school where they each hint at their true feelings, but circumstances around Harlow’s family moving put them right back where they started. But their single kiss at midnight on Heart Mountain will have a lasting impact on them if the legend is to be believed.

When Harlow returns to her hometown after discovering her boyfriend cheating on her with her sister, she and Linc pick back up right where they left off. Snarky comments, antagonism and all that comes with, but the chemistry between the two is combustible.

It all comes to head with a fake dating subplot at Harlow’s ex and sister’s wedding. After some bumps they find that maybe they are brave enough to take a chance on each other and finally be honest about their feelings.

Live this couple together. Linc gives Harlow what she needs in terms of unconditional support - which she has never gotten from her family - and Harlow doesn’t let Linc get away with his usual charming coasting. I haven’t read the first two books yet but I’ll definitely be going back to enjoy them.

Thanks to K.C. Lynn and The Author Agency for the ARC.

[Addy Cleaveland · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The rivalry was never the story. It was just the mask.” - Linc

I was so honored that K.C. Lynn allowed me to an ARC reader for this release, especially because it was the first book of her’s that I have read. And I LOVED every single page of this book.

The book starts off when Linc and Harlow are 18 years old and we get a glimpse into their rivalry days when playing pranks and being each other’s nemesis was all they knew. Their attitudes set the other’s blood on fire, but underneath that rivalry mask was a love that made them endgame. Especially when they kissed on top of Heart Mountain, locking their fate into place before Harlow moves away with her family.

When Harlow returns to Passion Falls after 3 years, that rivalry slips right back into place. That is until Harlow has to attend her sister’s wedding and asks Linc to be her fake boyfriend. That was the catalyst that brought Linc to his knees and the feelings on both sides to the surface. And when they crashed together the night of the wedding, the sexual tension was combustible. Harlow still had her guard up and her fears locked in place, but Linc didn’t stop until he tore every single one of them down. The spice was perfect, the flashbacks made the story 100x better, and their HEA was exactly the fairytale I had imagined.

[JanFromNJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

💞🏔️ 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 💞🏔️

Nothing I love more than snarky, humorous banter between enemies who have actually secretly lusted over each other for YEARS! Linc Masters and Harlow Hayes are captivating as well as wildly entertaining. And when Harlow needs Linc to be her fake boyfriend and attend her sister’s wedding to, wait for it, her EX, the real fun begins.

A romantic suite
One bed
Fake dating
Whatever will these “enemies” do?

The history between these two is volatile from childhood on. The pranks. The snide remarks. And the misunderstandings. KC Lynn is an expert at writing romantic, emotional scenes between couples who absolutely belong together but need a bit of a nudge to get there.

Her sister’s wedding turning into a train wreck gives Harlow and Linc an excuse to drink and get cozy. And by cozy I mean naked where more than just spicy banter ensues. It’s a turning point. And it changes everything. Let the steamy scenes begin!

Linc and Harlow’s story turns full circle and they explore the real feelings behind the snarky comments and childhood pranks.

“𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘦 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘓𝘪𝘯𝘤 𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺, 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩 𝘪𝘴, 𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘰 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨.”

Indeed. Heart Mountain truly is Magical.

#childhoodenemiestolovers
#onlyonebed
#snarkybanter
#magicalsmalltown
#firefighter
#KCLynn
#TheSecretofHeartMountain
@theauthor.agency
@authorkclynn

[Shayna · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨The Secret of Heart Mountain

If you love:

🔹Small Town magic
🔹Childhood enemies to Lovers
🔹Hot Firefighter
🔹Fake Dating
🔹Family drama
🔹Sassy Heroine

This book follows Linc Masters and Harlow Hayes—childhood enemies and next-door neighbors who spent their early years locked in an endless prank war. Harlow’s sass, sharp humor, and refusal to back down made her such a fun FMC. She could match Linc’s energy every step of the way, and I loved that about her.

The story is fast-paced with the perfect mix of family drama, angst, and a hint of small-town magic—complete with a breathtaking mountain setting that felt almost enchanted.

What really melted me was Linc. No matter the situation, he was always looking out for Harlow—even when she didn’t want his help or didn’t even know he was doing it. That protective energy? Chef’s kiss.

Overall, this was a really great read—fun, emotional, and addicting. I’ll definitely be picking up the rest of the books in this series! 📚💕

Genre/Type: Contemporary
APK: Kindle ARC
Pages: 201
Rating: 4🌟
Spice: 2🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Heart Mountain
Tropes or themes: Small town magic; sassy heroine; firefighter hero; banter; family drama; childhood enemies to lovers; one bed; fake dating; forced proximity; he falls first and hard; second chance
Check Triggers ⚠️ Cheating (Not by MCs); ✨

[Lindsay (LindsayTurnsThePage) · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are in your small town, childhood "enemies" to lovers era - this is the PERFECT read for you.

As kids, Harlow and Linc had a rivalry predicated on childhood pranks and mischief. But after Harlow's family moves away at the end of high school, they are both left to wonder what feelings could've been lingering under the surface.

Fast forward six years - Harlow is now a wedding planner and runs into Linc at an event she is working. To make matters worse, she also runs into her ex-boyfriend... who is now dating her sister. ::Cue the setup for fake dating:: Desperately, Harlow asks Linc to step in as her fake boyfriend to save face.

The forced proximity as a result of Linc becoming her fake boyfriend leads them both to confront lots of old feelings and assumptions, with both of them realizing there was more to their connection all along.

Watching Linc put aside childish antics to support and comfort Harlow through some family drama shows how much he's grown and truly cares for her. And seeing Harlow share her vulnerabilities with him and let him see her true self demonstrates how she is ready to embrace her own happily ever after.

This series reads like a novella - easy to consume, low angst, strong plot and a happy ending, with a few great spicy moments in between.

My rating: 4.5 ✨ / 2 🌶

What to expect:
- Childhood "enemies" to lovers
- Only One Bed
- Fake Dating
- Small Town Romance
- Firefighter x Wedding Planner

Thank you so much to K.C. Lynn and The Author Agency for the advanced reader copy of this book. All opinions are my own!

[Theresa Natole · Rating 5 out of 5]

A kiss at midnight under a full moon. Some might think it’s nothing but others know the truth. Fate and destiny. Sometimes there is a fine line between love and hate. All those times Linc threw slime at Harlow and tormented her underneath he was fighting his love for her. Harlow too felt something for Linc but never wanted to admit it.
Coming back home she still feels the betrayal from him the day she left. She also has never forgotten that kiss on Heart Mountain. She will never admit it but it something she has always kept deep in her heart.
Linc and Harlow were meant to be together. Fate has brought them back and once they began their fake relationship those feelings started to surface. The love they never admitted began to show. The little things he did that she never wanted to admit, now when she thinks about it she realizes the feelings he had but never admitted to either.
Their love story was such a beautiful love story. I could not get enough of them. I never wanted their story to end. I never wanted to stop reading. K C Lynn once again has made me fall in love with love. It started with a kiss at midnight and turned into forever love and happily ever after.

[Stephanie Crews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enemies to lovers. Fake dating. Childhood rivalry. A secret that changes everything. This story checks every single one of my favorite romance boxes.
Harlow Hayes is the kind of heroine you can’t help but root for—smart, sassy, and a little bit broken after finding out her sister is marrying her ex. The last thing she needs is to show up alone… which is exactly how she ends up fake dating her childhood nemesis, Linc Masters—the cocky firefighter who’s spent most of his life getting under her skin.
What starts as a hilarious, tension-filled plan to “survive the wedding” quickly turns into something deeper. The chemistry between Harlow and Linc is off the charts, the banter sharp and addictive, and the emotional undercurrent hits hard once the secret from Heart Mountain comes to light.
The author perfectly blends small-town charm, witty humor, and heartfelt emotion. The “legend” woven through the story adds a unique twist that makes this more than just another fake-dating romance—it’s about redemption, forgiveness, and realizing that sometimes the person you swore you hated was really the one meant for you all along.
If you love grumpy x sunshine, second chances, and a touch of mystery wrapped in heat and heart, Mountain with a Legend will absolutely steal your heart.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

You do a favor for me I’ll do a favor for you. That’s how it started for Linc and Harlow .. for a second time !! He is her childhood nemesis and she is the LOVE OF HIS LIFE !! Second Chances sometimes means .. We fight together, We survive together because deep down, even if they didn’t know it they were sole matters !!

Growing up we all know is hard in a small town because everyone knows everyone business, sometimes that is good BUT it usually is bad. So when Harlow and Linc would sabotage each others .. school projects , bikes etc it wasn’t out of hate BUT love .. even if they didn’t know it then because a few years later they WOULD figure it out. Because you NEVER EVER forget the KISS that ment it ALL !!

Passion Falls lives up to it name in this book because when Harlow needs Linc to be her fake date at a wedding she didn’t think her sister was attending turned into something magical for Harlow because being a Wedding Planner she knows what it takes to see or be in LOVE. Even at an early age pretending with dandelions as a banquet while walking down the aisle .. to childhood nemesis would be it ALL !!

Such an amazing, loving story !! Can’t wait for more from K.C. !! We NEED more !!

[Read.Review.Repeat Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Enemies to lovers. Fake dating. Childhood rivalry. A secret that changes everything. This story checks every single one of my favorite romance boxes.
Harlow Hayes is the kind of heroine you can’t help but root for—smart, sassy, and a little bit broken after finding out her sister is marrying her ex. The last thing she needs is to show up alone… which is exactly how she ends up fake dating her childhood nemesis, Linc Masters—the cocky firefighter who’s spent most of his life getting under her skin.
What starts as a hilarious, tension-filled plan to “survive the wedding” quickly turns into something deeper. The chemistry between Harlow and Linc is off the charts, the banter sharp and addictive, and the emotional undercurrent hits hard once the secret from Heart Mountain comes to light.
The author perfectly blends small-town charm, witty humor, and heartfelt emotion. The “legend” woven through the story adds a unique twist that makes this more than just another fake-dating romance—it’s about redemption, forgiveness, and realizing that sometimes the person you swore you hated was really the one meant for you all along.
If you love grumpy x sunshine, second chances, and a touch of mystery wrapped in heat and heart, Mountain with a Legend will absolutely steal your heart."

[Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is the story of Lincoln and Harlow. These two grew up next door to each other in a small town called Passion Falls. These two were fire and ice and were constantly playing pranks on each other. This never ends as they are growing up but the banter between them changes and becomes very flirty. One day when Harlow has another horrible argument with her parents she takes off and goes to Heart Mountain. This is the night that things change between them. But the next day Harlow is gone after being forced to move away with her family. Now years have passed and she is back in Passion Falls. The second she sees Lincoln they pick up with the pranks and teasing. They have such a tight knit group of friends that it is impossible to not see each other. Now she needs his help. Because her sister is getting married and she just couldn't say she would be there. She had to say she and her boyfriend would be there. When she asked him to be her "fake date" to the wedding, he agrees because she needs to know how he really feels. What will happen next between these two? You have to read and find out. I thought this was a really sweet story.

[Jenn the Readaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Harlow and Linc are proof of just how thin that line is between love and hate. And how easily the line blurs or outright disappears. And as we get glimpses into their childhood and their shared past, but from different perspectives, it’s all too clear just how they became enemies before anything else. But no matter the animosity, Linc can’t let Harlow be hurt by others. Oh, no. He manages to do that just fine all on his own when his temper or ego gets control of his mouth. And trust me, Harlow gives as good as she gets, even if it shreds her to do so.

But the proof in how they truly feel is there, just waiting to finally be acknowledged. I mean, he jumps in to save her from hurt at the hands of others. He defends both her and another who doesn’t deserve it. And when that other comes to their once-safe spot for help, Linc and Harlow are both all about helping, listening, and understanding. And forgiveness, since if it weren’t for some events, they might not have the forever they were always meant to have.

But I want more. I want that other person to have something great, too. And I need another once-was duo to share their story, soon!

[demi ☁️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating: 🌶️

This is such a cute little fake dating, enemies to lovers romance! It had the perfect amount of spice for the length of the book and considering it’s only around 200 pages, I was definitely hooked by the plot.

This book follows Linc and Harlow, who are reunited years after being childhood frenemies. Linc is a fireman and Harlow is a wedding planner who doesn’t believe she will ever get married. Linc & Harlow’s dynamic was amazing from the start and I loved their humour.
My favourite scene was Harlow going to Linc’s family’s house for a meal. I loved watching the communication from Linc’s brothers towards Harlow and how accepted she felt, when she’s not felt accepted before (her family are trash!)

I also loved seeing the dynamic between Harlow and her sister, Hattie. They had a rough upbringing and were turned against each other by their parents, but when they became close again was a very good subplot!

4/4 stars - would definitely recommend!

Read if you love:
🧑‍🚒 childhood enemies to lovers
👩‍🚒 fake dating
👩‍🚒 only one bed
👩‍🚒 small town
👩‍🚒 firefighter MMC
👩‍🚒 family drama
👩‍🚒 spice
👨‍🚒 found family

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review he secret of Mountain heart

-Childhood enemies to lovers
-Fake dating
-One bed
-It’s always been you

This was my first read by this author and if anyone knows me they know I love a good small town romance but this had a different feel as there was I guess sort of magic to the town as well with some of their spirits that happen 💕

The story follows linc and harlow and they have been childhood anyways basically their whole lives. There was one night where they actually kissed but the next day Harlow was moving and didn’t say goodbye to him and he was heartbroken from that and from that point they just have never been close

They get caught in a situation where they have to pretend to date because her sister is getting married to her ex so they want to stay face 💕💕

I thought this was a really cute and sweet romance. It was also a short read as well so we’re looking for like a small town romance. I definitely recommend reading this book.

Thank you to authorkclynn_ and theauthor.agency for an arc copy of this book i appreciate the opportunity to read this book

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️

[Meghan901 · Rating 5 out of 5]

KC Lynn absolutely wrecked me with this story-in the best possible way!

“I love being yours.”

The Secret of Heart Mountain grabbed me from page one with its mix of enemies‑to‑lovers, fake‑dating, and small town charms. Ms. Lynn brings all the tension, banter, and emotional stakes with her signature witting style.

Harlow is a heroine with a fire inside of her and realness that I was not expecting. She’s not perfect but she owns it in a way that feels true to who she is. And I respect that so much. Linc, who is her childhood nemesis turned reluctant fake date, is exactly the kind of opposites attract character I root for. The way he pushes her buttons and the way he teases her=pure perfection. But underneath all of that is a quiet steadiness that I was so drawn to. I literally adored the both of them-together as a couple and who they were individually.

I cannot tell you how much I loved this book. If I could give this more than 5 stars I would. If you’re into fiery heroines, broody heroes, and small town romances-then this book is for you. It delivers ALL THE FEELS in true KC Lynn fashion. Highly recommend reading it!

[Kimhe Rockchicks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is the first book I’ve read by KC Lynn, and I honestly have no idea why it’s taken me so long to pick up one of her stories—because now I’m completely addicted. From the first chapter, I was gone. This book grabs you by the heart, pulls you deep into its pages, and refuses to let you go. It’s the kind of story that makes you laugh, ache, swoon, and maybe even tear up a little.
Linc and Harlow’s journey is breathtaking—intense, emotional, and beautifully real. Their connection leaps off the page, and every moment between them feels raw and genuine. The small-town setting adds the perfect cozy touch, filled with warmth, family, and those side characters you can’t help but fall in love with.
KC Lynn writes with so much heart and emotion that you can’t help but feel every word. This book is a perfect blend of passion, heartbreak, and healing—a reminder that love can come from the most unexpected places and change everything.
If you’re looking for a story that will make your heart race and your soul sigh, this small-town romance is an absolute must-read. KC Lynn just earned herself a permanent spot on my favorite authors list.

[Chia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you, The Author Agency, for the early copy!

Harlow Hayes is a wedding-planner whose world tilts when she discovers that her sister is marrying Harlow’s ex—and she’ll need a date, fast. Enter Linc Masters, the childhood nemesis-turned-local-firefighter who’s just the kind of man to push her buttons. What begins as a calculated partnership to save face turns into something far more combustible—especially when a legendary mountain, a buried secret, and a truth neither expected begin to unearth real feelings.

K.C. Lynn delivers a blend of playful tension and emotional depth. Harlow’s mix of pragmatism and vulnerability makes her a relatable heroine, while Linc’s tough-exterior and hidden layers anchor the romance. letting the tension breathe and the characters grow.

The Secret of Heart Mountain is an engaging enemies-to-lovers romance infused with mythic charm and real emotional payoff. If you love stories where old wounds, local legends and slow-burn desire intersect, this one delivers.
Gripping, passionate, and full of heart — a page-turner with depth and devotion in equal measure.

[gemma.louise.xx.books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Linc and Harlow have been enemies their whole lives, constantly playing pranks on each other and making each others lives hell. But when Harlow needs a date to her sisters wedding- to her ex!- she asks Linc to be her fake boyfriend for the weekend. She doesn’t expect him to agree but when he does she keeps reminding herself it’s just for the weekend. But lines start to blur when Linc stands up for her and Harlow starts to question whether the line between love and hate is thinner than she ever realised.

This was so good!! From the first page you could tell that they probably didn’t hate each other as much as they thought and it just kept getting better and better! It wasn’t a long book at all but it was perfect. Nothing felt rushed or missing, it was honestly a perfectly put together love story that I am slightly obsessed with. I need to read the previous two books but they didn’t feel massively necessary to story, I just want more from this world! Linc is one of my favourite MMC’s I’ve read recently, just because he did everything right throughout this story!

[Shruti Mishra · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good comeback book for the author.

There’s a great balance of humor, angst, and chemistry throughout. It’s low on spice but high on sweetness once you push past that enemies-to-lovers tension. Linc is swoony (even when he’s full of himself), and Harlow? Total firecracker. I loved her boldness and quick wit, though there were moments she could’ve taken it down a notch.

The story felt a little short, I would’ve loved just a bit more romance or angst to deepen the connection. Some subplots, like Harlow’s parents and the ex drama, could’ve used more closure. Still, it kept me engaged and smiling most of the way.

The supporting cast really adds charm without stealing the spotlight. They bring humor and warmth, and there are a few subtle hints that set up the next book perfectly, which honestly feels like it’s going to be the most emotional one in the series.

All in all, this was a quick, fun, and feel-good read with all the right romcom energy, swoon, sass, and just enough heart to leave you wanting more.

[mkm_bookloverarchivistreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret of Heart Mountain by K.C. Lynn I was pleasantly surprised by her mix of romance and suspense. There was a way balance between the two genre with some mystery thrown into the mix. Harlow and Linc are the focus of this book. Harlow is a wedding planner who receives gut punch by decision of her own sister. Linc is Harlow ‘s childhood nemesis and a local firefighter. There to are an unexpected and brilliant pairing. As a first time reader of K.C. Lynn’s books I loved her character driven narrative it nearly a prefect 50/50 place with the plot. Character driven narrative is around 51% of the book while stalemate plot is 49% of the story. Linc and Harlow are a pair who’s easy to root for as a reader. Harlow pain of her sister’s actions is brilliant part to the plot. I highly recommend picking up K.C. Lynn’s The Secret of Heart Mountain. This was a quick read that I couldn’t wait to find out what came next. This was a read I appreciated for the slower burn rate of the romance.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first K.C. Lynn read, and I'm not sure I could have started with a better one because the banter and tension were everything I love in a great enemies-to-lovers romance. This is book 3, and I do this to myself all the time, accidentally start a series right smack dab in the middle of it. Oops!

What I loved most is how Linc and Harlow's story feels so full-circle. They went from childhood enemies to adults trying (and failing) to deny what’s been there all along. The flashbacks add a lot of depth to their connection. K.C. Lynn knows exactly how to build tension and deliver those swoony, emotional payoffs that make your heart race.

If you’ve been following the Heart Mountain series, this one will absolutely steal your heart. And if you’re new to K.C. Lynn’s world (like me), I'll say it’s the perfect introduction. It’s sweet, spicy, and guaranteed to make your heart happy. Of course, now I'm off to read the first two.