Mountain Single Dad

by Lyssa J. Cole

Falling for the single dad at my sister’s preschool? Not on my wish list…or so I thought…

When my sister asked me to help with her preschool’s Christmas show, I jumped at the chance. The kids were adorable, the cookies were endless, and there was enough tinsel to decorate the entire town.
But when the hot mountain man in the audience continued to look at me like I was his next Christmas treat, I couldn’t resist finding out more about him.
Foster Menard.
The small town’s most eligible bachelor. A single dad to two little girls.
And the gift I wanted for myself this holiday.
Until he became a lot more than just a gift.
He became my forever.

Mountain Single Dad is a single dad, Christmas holiday, small town instalove romance set in the small picturesque town of Appleridge. It features a curvy woman and a sexy mountain man and it’s meant to be devoured in only one hour! So if you love short, steamy instalove novelettes with hot mountain men, you’ll want to one click the Tinsel & Timber Series today!

Get tangled in tinsel and wrapped in holiday romance. Tinsel & Timber is a spicy short multi-author mountain man holiday romance series set in the snowy wilderness where strangers become soulmates, and unexpected love burns brighter than a bonfire. Expect merry and bright happily ever afters with no cliffhangers and no cheating.

Genres: Romance

35 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 25, 2025

About the author

Lyssa J Cole writes steamy, small town instalove short stories with protective alpha heroes and sassy, strong women. With lots of drama, over the top emotions, and the sleepy New England town charm, her novelettes are easy to devour and offer a quick bite of romance sure to satisfy your craving.

Reviews

[Korkoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Unexpected Lasting Instant Connection -
Zemia just performed an act of kindness on a little girl whilst helping out her sister and her reward was an interaction with the little girl’s dad, that left her with mind blowing fantasies. Foster didn’t do relationships, as his life was all about his daughters, but he felt an instant connection with Zemia from the moment they met, that pushed him to change his mind. Whilst Foster tried hard to stay away from Zemia because he didn’t really do relationships, his willpower broke, so he sought her out to invite her on a date.

Even though Foster and Zemia really enjoyed their time together getting to know each other, it didn’t end with a simple goodnight, but rather the most spectacular night for both of them. Foster and Zemia may have embarked on a relationship, but took their time introducing her to his children as anything other than a friend. Luckily, once Foster was sure Zemia was the right person to be part of his family, he didn’t everything expected to make her a permanent member, so they could have the happily ever after they craved.

This is a beautifully written heartwarming romance story, that will leave you believing in love at first sight and soulmates. You will definitely enjoy reading this book and the characters love and happiness will stay with you long after you've read the final page.

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

[kymagirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

He thought his heart was full with his girls. Then she proved it could grow.

When Zemia agrees to help her sister wrangle a preschool Christmas pageant, she doesn’t expect to lock eyes with Foster, the rugged single dad who looks at her like she already belongs to him. She’s used to fixing chaos, not becoming part of someone else's story, but his stare changes everything.

Foster lives for his girls, Livvie and Joanie, and keeps his life simple. But when he sees Zemia comforting his daughter with nothing but warmth and grace, something cracks open. One moment becomes dinner, and dinner becomes a spark too strong to ignore.

Their connection deepens fast. Zemia finds herself drawn into a home full of late-night baking, bedtime stories, and quiet trust. What starts as attraction grows into something steady, the kind of bond that comes from choosing each other when it counts. ‍‍

Zemia shifts from focused and independent to open and all-in, ready to love more than just a man. Foster learns to let someone in without fear, slowly trusting her with not just his heart but his daughters too. Together, they find the kind of love that changes the way life feels.

A steamy, small town, instalove, opposites attract, single dad Christmas romance with grumpy sunshine sparks, holiday warmth, and deep emotional payoff. It’s about finding love where you least expect it, showing up when it matters, and building something real with the ones who make it all feel worth it.

The Elevator Pitch: A rugged single dad isn't looking for love until a holiday pageant turns chaos into instant attraction. She walks in with a bobby pin and a quick smile, and suddenly he's rethinking everything. It's a steamy, feel-everything small town romance where family, heat, and heart collide.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

"...the pieces of my world shifted into place with hers."~Foster🌹

"Sometimes when you meet the right person, you blossom."~Zemia🌹

It's almost Christmas in Appleridge and Zemia noticed a very attractive man in the auditorium of where she was helping her sister Alana with her pre-k students for their holiday program.🎶🎄👧🏼👧🏻🎄🎶 Amid the chaos and rush, Zemia had one thought: Where had this man been hiding? Leave it to Alana to notice and crack me up with her remarks to her sister.🤭 The man in question was Foster McKay and every lady in town noticed/showed interest in the mountain man. Well Z was about to call dibs! hehe Zemia also found out his daughter Livvie was Alana's student. Hot single Dad with not 1 but 2 little daughters. Let the looks, smiles, and flirting begin.😉😍😚😚

I like Zemia. She was bold and sassy. She was also a hair dresser. And Z didn't wait for Foster, she made a move to show her interest and get the ball rolling to ask him out. Confidence and a lady who takes initiative, that was cool to read.🎊🥳🎊 Foster was liking her even more. Their chemistry was insta but they had fun as they made plans for a date while trying to not give into temptation. It does get spicy.🔥🥵🔥🥵

I also like Foster. He was a devoted Dad and he took his time before having Zemia meet his girls at their home. He was sure, but he wanted to really be sure. Which was another thing to love about their story. Responsible Dad.

The world building grew. This was a short and great read. That ending. Cute and funny.😂😂 I like it! Appleridge and Cupid making the rounds for the holiday season.🧚🏻🏹🎯 And yes to that book cover! Check out 'Foster'. Happy holidays.☃️ Happy reading!*•>§<•*🩵✨🩵✨🩵

👷🏡💇‍♀️Thank you to Ms Cole and Booksprout. The opinions shared here are my own.💇‍♀️🏡👷

[Geri Stoikova · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's face it - this year I'm going to read all the holiday novellas and romance I can get my hands on. So Mountain Single Dad is another one of Lyssa J Cole's holiday short, fast and steamy novellas . Yeah, Foster and Zemia were so good together. Foster was attending his daughter's holiday concert when he sees Zemia for the first time. And when he sees her helping his daughter he's a goner. Z's emotions are all over the place but she waits for Foster to ask her to a date . The instant connection between them is strong and undeniable. And I loved it that Foster was the perfect mountain gentleman. He managed to have a relationship with Z at a slower pace so his daughters had the opportunity to get to know Z . Those two along with the girls were the perfect instant family. Foster and Z got their happy ending and their story made a full circle with the holiday cheer all around them.

Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Foster was at the school Christmas pageant wth his adorable daughter but he spotted Zemia helping the teacher wrangle the children. Foster was totally smitten from that first glance but when she helped his daughter Livvie he knew she’d be his. When they went on a date they rushed right back to her home to seal the deal. I loved ho Zemia fit into Foster’s little family and that their honeymoon produced an unexpected bonus. Lots of pda and chemistry!

[Angi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Foster wasn’t looking nor did he want a relationship, he had his girls and that was enough. Then Zemia was helping his daughter and everything shifted. This book was an amazing read. The instant connection between the characters had you hoping they would work things out. I loved the way Foster made sure Zemia was a good fit with his girls. This is an excellent read. I highly recommend this well written heartfelt read.

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

[Bec A · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic hot little Christmas read! Zemia (MFC) and Foster (MMC) are fantastic together and their chemistry was perfect from the beginning!.

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

[J Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story glows with love and wonder!!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful fast paced read, The both fall instantly, A wonderful addition to the series. A page turner.

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

[Shalalah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mountain Single Dad is pure holiday delight—a quick, cozy read that delivers charm, heart, and a sparkling dose of Christmas magic. Lyssa J. Cole captures the warmth of small-town life perfectly, and the moment Zemia walks into the preschool to help with her sister’s Christmas show, you can feel the beginning of something special.

Foster Menard is instantly captivating: a devoted single dad, a hardworking mountain man, and the kind of hero who lights up every scene with quiet strength. The way he watches Zemia—curious, hopeful, and a little awe-struck—gives their instalove connection an irresistible sweetness. Their chemistry is immediate but never rushed; instead, it feels like two people recognizing something they didn’t know they were missing.

Zemia herself is a joy to root for. Her warmth with the kids, her humor, and her growing affection for Foster’s two daughters make the romance feel grounded and genuine. Watching her slip so naturally into Foster’s world is one of the highlights of the story, and the way their relationship unfolds is both tender and full of festive charm.

The novella format works beautifully here: short, steamy, and full of heart, with just enough holiday atmosphere to make the story feel magical. Appleridge is the kind of town that makes you want to bundle up with cocoa and stay awhile.

If you love single dad romances, mountain men with big hearts, and one-hour holiday reads that leave you smiling long after you finish, Mountain Single Dad is a wonderful addition to your seasonal TBR.

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

[Carolee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mountain Single Dad by Lyssa J. Cole stands out as another great holiday read, perfect for those seeking warmth and romance this season. The story centers on Zemia and Foster, a truly charming couple whose relationship captured my attention from the very beginning. Their compatibility was instantly apparent, and the chemistry between them was undeniable.

One of the most memorable aspects of their journey was how a single act of kindness between Zemia and Foster’s daughter Livvie, blossomed into a lifelong love for Zemia and Foster. This simple gesture sets the stage for the enduring bond they build throughout the book.

The narrative thoughtfully portrays how Zemia and Foster take things slow, especially when it comes to Foster’s daughters. Their deliberate approach to building family bonds is both touching and realistic, adding depth to the story.

As always, Lyssa J. Cole delivers a wonderful love story that is sure to warm readers’ hearts during the holiday season. Mountain Single Dad offers a heartfelt love story, making it a must-read for romance fans like me…and you!.

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

[Ingrid · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Christmas romance has a rather unusual meet-cute: the two main characters cross paths during a children’s school play, where she’s helping her sister and ends up doing her niece’s — and his daughter’s — hair. It’s sweet, but I’ll admit the setup feels a little constructed and not entirely realistic. Still, once you get past the opening, the story picks up quickly.

And I do mean quickly. The pacing is fast, sometimes very fast, and the romance escalates before there’s much room for deeper emotional buildup. If you love slow-burn development, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you enjoy a whirlwind holiday romance that jumps right in, this book absolutely delivers.

Despite the speed, the story is warm, festive, and an enjoyable Christmas escape — short, cozy, and perfect for an afternoon of holiday reading. I still had a good time with it.

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

[Rebmay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hot and handsome single dad Foster is immediately attracted to the stunning and kind assistant at his daughter’s Christmas pageant. He has no plans to act on his attraction until he observes her kind and gentle manner with his stressed little daughter. He discovers her name when she offers to help him with his daughter’s hair, the source of her stress. Foster shows up at Zemia’s hair salon to thank her and asks her out for dinner. Their conversation over dinner shows them that there is much to like about the other. Their conversation over dinner shows them that there is much to like about the other. A kiss leads to so much more and thoughts of of future neither had expected. A little Christmas magic and the Appleridge love bug have brought together two people who had all but given up on love.

I am happy to recommend this sweet and spicy novella.

[Callie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zemia is at her sisters class program, helping out. She enjoys her niece and nephew, this is for them, just a whole class of them. She helps herd them onto the stage and puts them where they’re supposed to be. After they are finished, they all came rushing at Zemia, who was distracted by someone in the audience. She helps with the hat change as they are all around her, till the last kid, who really needed help with her hair and hat.
Mountain Single Dad is part of the Tinsel and Timber series. This was an absolutely sweet and spicy short story and so worth the read. The characters are amazing too; you really care about what happens to them. So, grab this book and the rest that are part of the Tinsel and Timber series and enjoy.

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

[Shayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mountain Single Dad is a short, sweet, and steamy Christmas romance that delivers everything fans of holiday love stories crave. Lyssa J. Cole’s story of curvy heroine meeting the irresistible single dad, Foster Menard, in a small-town preschool setting is adorable and instantly engaging. The chemistry between them sizzles, the festive backdrop adds charm, and the instalove dynamic makes it a quick, satisfying read. Perfect for a cozy hour, this novella balances warmth, humor, and spice, wrapping readers in the holiday spirit while delivering a heartwarming happily-ever-after. A festive treat worth one-clicking!.

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

[Sandy C · Rating 4 out of 5]

With so much heat emanating between them, Foster noticed more than Zemia's visuals: her kind, patient attitude towards his daughter. When they met again, he took daughters into account, thought about Zemia's personality, and could barely take her on a date before giving in to passion 😂. Zemia was easily swayed by his care for his daughters and his interests. It really is cute and swoon-worthy🥰.
With his pattern of behavior, and no mention of her using birth control, it's a miracle she didn't get pregnant for so long.😂


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

[Praline 99 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Single dad romance.
Zemia is a young woman who has come to help her sister, a kindergarten teacher, with the end-of-year show. But while helping a little girl with a hair problem, she comes face to face with a magnificent mountain man.
Foster is a single father in a small mountain town. While watching his daughter's performance, he notices a beautiful young woman. And when this same woman ends up comforting and fixing his daughter's hair, he knows she's his future wife.
Will Zemia and Foster have a beautiful love story….

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

[Nathalie DeSousa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet and steamy love story perfect for the season!

Zemia is in town to aid her sister with her kindergarden class and her little ones. She did not expect to enjoy all the children so much, special during the pageant. Foster is captivated by Zemia at first sight, but when he sees how she stops to help his daughter, he knows that she is the one he needs. Their attraction takes them from a first date to passion in seconds, but then they take the time to start their forever as s family. PLus there is a great epilogue!.

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

[Lisa H · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a hot and heat filled book!!

Zema is just doing her part helping her sister rangle kids for a play, but all that shifts when she is helping a litle girl who's dad could melt paint from miles away. Everyone seems to have their eye on Foster. Foster doesn't have a happy ending to his kids being here, but he hasn't really been interested until he sees Zema.

I love the Alpha soft dad vibes he gives when he sees Zema and just knows she's the one for him. He isn't afraid to be a little forward, and it pays off. You get the heat and passion, but also the dedication and patience as they fall into a happy habit, and becoming part of the family. It's got good heat, and a great HEA!.

[Jackie Ziegler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Zemia is helping her sister run the Christmas pageant at the preschool. When one of the kids coming crying, she offers to help. Just a simple hair fix. But when the child's dad comes in, everything else fades away. She has never seen a man like him before.

Foster goes backstage to help his daughter when he meets Zemia. No one has ever felt so perfect for him.

Will he get up the nerve to ask her out, though? Life is hectic with two kids but he wants her too.

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

[Nancy Koske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zemia is helping her older sister,Alana, with a Christmas preschool Christmas performance. She sees a guy sitting by her father who appears to be checking her out. Who is he? She helps a girl,Livvie, with her hair and learns that guy who checked her out is Livvie's dad. His name is Foster. What does Alana tell Zemia to do after the show? What are Foster's plan for Zemia? Will he accomplish it? How does he learn how to find her again?.

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

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED how even in an instalove story the author was able to portray a father who takes time to be sure she is worthy of being introduced to his children & woven into their lives. That small detail is actually what pushed me from 4 stars to 5 stars. The chemistry between the characters was undeniable. I couldn't wait to see how their HEA would come together. Lets not forget the epilogues... the absolute perfect way to end the book. Great job! I highly recommend this book.

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

[Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Incorrect book

The first paragraph of the book is Zemia but when you expect the next paragraph to be Foster we get Hayes, and the rest of the book is Harvesting with Hayes. As much as I love Hayes and Serena's story (which was released a few weeks ago) I was looking forward to meeting Foster and the Mountain Single Dad book.
Fortunately I downloaded this on Kindle Unlimited, so there was no cost implication, it's just very frustrating.

[H S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wined, dined, and steamy times with the single dad! Zemia meets Foster when she is helping her sister with the preschool Christmas performance. They can’t resist their attraction and almost don’t make it on their first date. I love how he considers his two girls emotions and introduces Zemia slowly to them as their relationship progresses. They have plenty of chemistry and a romantic proposal! The epilogue is the perfect star on the top of this story!

[Debdutch · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Mountain Single Dad” by Lyssa J. Cole

-A very short, steamy holiday romance that warms the heart. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.

Foster and Zemia share an instant, undeniable connection at a Christmas event. Foster loves his little girls and reading about Zemia joining Foster’s little family is heart-melting and sweet,

Sweet, sexy, and festive— a quick Christmas read.

[Jenia Tortora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zemia got roped into helping her sister with a Christmas pageant and met Foster while fixing his daughter’s hair. It’s sparks and heat but this bite sized novella actually gave some epilogues that made this book have more depth than I expected. The characters are fun and the HEA is so full of love you can feel it.

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

[Anoesjka Connolly · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was instant attraction for Foster and Zemia when their eyes met at the preschool Christmas concert. When Zemia was helping her sister's preschool class out, she managed to help Foster's daughter with her hair and hat, and there was no looking back for either of them. I loved their instant attraction and how they were both into it, despite being at a preschool concert, the world seemed to slip away and disappear for them. Another fun quick read.

[Cynthia Khan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tinsel & Timber  story of Foster Menard and Zemia. This one is sweet and charming. This short story had me falling in love with these two and the way they make each other laugh and feel like they know each other from the start.

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

[Lynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick, hot and steamy, Christmas short. Most of Lyssa's books are really good reads.

In my opinion, this book seemed a bit rushed and the character building is missing. It could be just because the book is around 40 pages.

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

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zemia and Foster are fun characters that light up the pages in this romantic novella. His two sweet daughters really add some innocence and cuteness to their story. And even more than that it all takes place during the Christmas season. A light a beautiful love story.

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