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A shy coffee shop owner and the CEO of her family's rival winery fake date in this spicy small town romance from the author of Double Barrel and Bottle Shock.

He needs a date. She needs the practice.

Ariana Ledger is a hopeless romantic who'd rather lose herself in romance novels than face the reality of her nonexistent dating life. As the owner of Red Mountain's beloved coffee shop, Novel Teas and Coffee, she's content living in fictional happily-ever-afters—until a charming man strolls into town and checks every box on her dream-man list. There's just one problem. Ariana has no real dating experience, and she's convinced it's only a matter of time before she sabotages her own chances.

Cole Benton learned a long time ago that nothing good lasts forever. As the CEO and winemaker of his family's winery, he prefers keeping his relationships casual and uncomplicated. But when his ex shows up engaged and asks to host her wedding at his winery, Cole needs a solution—fast. Enter Ariana. She needs dating experience. He needs a convincing girlfriend.

Fake dating is the perfect arrangement, even if she's ten years younger—and the youngest daughter of the family whose winery has been Benton's biggest competition for years.
The plan is simple. No strings. No feelings. Until faking it starts to feel real, boundaries blur, and Ariana and Cole must decide if this was ever just practice—or the beginning of something worth risking it all for.

What begins as a blush crush—meant to be temporary-has a way of lingering long enough to change everything.

460 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 14, 2026

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About the author

Michelle Naomi Mosley

9 books264 followers
Technical writer turned romance author Michelle Naomi Mosley writes all town romances with relatable characters and heartfelt narratives, incorporating humor and open-door spice in all her stories. Michelle lives in Washington State's wine country with her husband. When she's not writing, she's reading, cooking the latest viral recipe, or redecorating her home for the millionth time. Since deciding to take the plunge and make her writing dreams a reality, it's been a whirlwind of late nights crafting stories and trying to keep up with the countless book ideas that strike her at any given moment.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 289 reviews
Profile Image for cat.
424 reviews217 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 4, 2026
“I thought if I gave myself a little taste of her that it would be enough to get her out of my system, but the truth is she’s not just in my system, she is my system. She’s everything.”


on repeat 𝄞 ࿐♬ 𓍢ִ🎧ྀི ᯓ ‎♪ˎˊ˗
"ʙᴀᴄᴋ ᴛᴏ ꜰʀɪᴇɴᴅꜱ" x ꜱᴏᴍʙʀ
0:44 ──♥──────── 3:19


This one snuck up on me emotionally in a way I was not prepared for. Like yes, I expected fake dating chaos and flirty tension and maybe some swoony moments… but I did not expect to feel this seen through Ariana?!

From the very beginning, I was locked into her head—the constant comparisons, the quiet belief that everyone else is somehow more worthy, more desirable, more enough. It hit a little too close to home (in a “haha I’m fine” but actually staring at the ceiling at 2am way 😭). And knowing the kind of man Cole was about to be for her?? I was already bracing myself.

like THIS?!?!

“If there’s one thing I want her to take from our arrangement it’s this—she’s desired, wanted. She’s so much more than she gives herself credit for.”


I’m sorry, I had to pause. Like actually pause. Because THAT... that rewires you a little. 🥹

And Cole??? Oh I have THOUGHTS. This man walked in with a reputation and a whole emotional wall built ten feet high, and yet you could feel the cracks almost immediately. The way people spoke about him—like they had him all figured out, like he wasn’t capable of depth—was so frustrating because you just knew there was more underneath.🥺 And when you finally understand why he carries that “not good enough” weight??? Yeah… I was not okay. Not even a little.😭😭😭

But also, this man is INSANE The push and pull in his head?? Him trying to keep things casual while simultaneously imagining a future with her?? Watching him spiral in real time while pretending he wasn’t catching feelings had me laughing one second and clutching my chest the next.

And then he goes and says things like

“She was meant to be worshipped and I have no problem proving that to her—as many times as it takes for her to believe it.”


EXCUSE MEEEEEEEEEE
This book really thrives in that space between playful and painfully vulnerable. One second you’re giggling at their banter—

“Is that your thing? You like irritating me?”
“Baby, I just like your attention.”


—and the next you’re sitting there quietly devastated because of how deeply they both don’t see their own worth. 😭🥺

I think that’s what got me the most. They were both walking around believing they were somehow lacking, somehow temporary, somehow less. And yet, with each other, they found this space where they were seen fully.

And Ariana… the way Cole looks at her?? The way he makes her feel??

“But Cole has never made me feel anything less than beautiful. The heat in his eyes when they travel over my body can’t be faked. This man truly wants me—soft belly, wide hips, thick thighs. He wants all of me.”


PLEASEEEEEE. We need more men like Cole Benton. i absolutely LOVED the body positivity 😝🫶🏼

There is a lot of spice, I won’t lie, (the audacity of this man… that Christmas gift??? I’m still laughing over it 💀) and while I did feel it leaned a little heavy at times, I get it was a huge part of the plot so that made it understandable. Do I still wish there was a little less?? Yeah, a bit. BUT, it tied into her growth, her confidence, & her learning herself in a way that actually mattered so I can appreciate that.

By the end, I just… sat there. because overall this wasn’t just about fake dating or tension or romance. It was about two people who didn’t think they were enough learning that they never had to be anything else other than themselves to be loved. It's about unlearning the quiet lies you start to believe about yourself, and realizing the parts you thought made you “less” are exactly what someone else cherishes most. About being chosen—consistently, intentionally—until you finally start to believe you’re worth it too.

[And I’m calling it now… I am READY for Shane and Lina. (at least that's my best guess)
Single mom era?? Growth era?? Teach that man how to act era??? I’m BEGGING]

things to know about the book ↓

🌸 age gap (23/33)
🌸 fake dating
🌸 he falls first
🌸 spicy lessons
🌸 he gets jealous
🌸 found confidence / self-worth arc
🌸 "grab the headboard" (iykyk)
🌸 dual POV

spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
swearing: yes

Thank you to Michelle Naomi Mosley for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

If you're interested in reading my review for the previous book in this series! ↓ ↓
#3- Bottle Shock Review

⸻⸻⸻
・❥・⁀➷ pre-read

IM SO READY. IVE BEEN WAITING
Profile Image for Judy ♡.
165 reviews60 followers
Currently Reading
August 12, 2026
this cover needs to be appreciated.
ALL MY FAV TROPES IN ONE BOOK I CANT WAIT
Profile Image for Mads.
146 reviews24 followers
August 19, 2026
(⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5) I wanted to like it more, but Cole talked about experiences with other women too much & Ariana was too self deprecating. Once I had a little more context towards the end, I felt more connected to them both & enjoyed their relationship. But he was pretty off putting for the first half.

I like the author & the writing but it’s just not a trope I enjoy. The reformed playboy & inexperienced fmc just gives me the ick most of the time.

100 stars for characters that are honest & don’t cause a silly third act breakup though 🙌🏼 I’m continuing to appreciate the maturity of conflict resolution in this series.
Profile Image for Sienasummerrreads.
800 reviews381 followers
June 10, 2026
I’m obsessed with this book. I enjoyed every moment of this reading experience it felt like perfection. I absolutely devoured the playboy and innocent dynamic, especially with the spicy lessons element. This was the most fun I’ve had reading in a long time.

This is a character-driven story that makes you smile. Ariana is such a beautiful soul. She owns a café and doesn’t have much experience when it comes to dating or intimacy. Then there’s Cole the one person who always shows up to annoy her while picking up his favourite baked goods. From their very first interaction, the tension is incredible. I loved how easily he made her blush.

Cole isn’t someone who does commitment, but Ariana brings out a side of him he never expected. Together, they just work, and I genuinely won’t stop thinking about them. When the story explores past grief and the fear surrounding how life changing news will be received, it really tugs at the heartstrings.

One of my favourite things about this book is the way Cole treats Ariana. He takes care of her, respects her, and absolutely worships her in all the ways she deserves. He is peak book boyfriend material.

Lastly I have to mention the spice it was immaculate. The intimate scenes were so deliciously written and had me completely hooked. Compared to the last Red Mountain novel, this definitely took things up a notch. So many moments had me weak. To him going to town and feasting on Ariana, that filthy delicious mouth and making her feel so comfortable she could let go I am so obsessed.

I need to read more of Michelle’s backlog and any future releases because it was honesty perfect. Also if this gets made into an audiobook I NEED IT IMMEDIATELY.

Genre/Type: Romance 18+
APK: Kindle ARC
Pages: 437
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Spicy Chapters: 20, 27, 28, 29, 32, 35, 36, 40 and 41
POV: First Person
Series or Standalone: Book Four In The Red Mountain Series
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Fake Dating, Age Gap (10yrs), Reformed Playboy, Surprise Pregnancy, Tension, Chemistry, Mine, Medical Content, Discusses Death Of Sibling and Grief, Sexual Content, Praise, Dirty Talk, Spicy Lessons, Eyes On Me, Oral Play, Toys, Spit Play, Begging, Cock Warming, Taken Bare, Phone Scene, Dry Humping Scene, Car Scene, Shower Scene and Office Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫

All Round Romance Reader 
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Margins | Pagebound | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
Profile Image for Cathán.
171 reviews
June 3, 2026
3.25⭐️

Thank you to the author for this ARC copy!

This was sweet, I like the fake dating trope, not just cause you know there’s gonna be a HEA, but you see the characters develop their feelings authentically with no insta love involved.
Add in the ‘spicy lessons’ trope and I’m sold. But I do think it’s unrealistic when as she soon as they start ‘lessons’ suddenly no one needs teaching anymore and it’s all natural and done with ease. I’m gonna need a bit more authenticity.

Ariana as a character was likeable, however it was hard to fully love her personality cause she was just so caught up in self doubt for about 80% of the book. I get that she was shy and inexperienced but she was RIDDLED with insecurity and only really seemed fully confident during the spicy scenes.
But, I did obviously relate to her being a bookworm and I wish there had been more scenes about that side of her. The date he planned (ifyk) was so cute, I’m stealing it.

Cole was a man also riddled with self doubt. He constantly bought up how he ‘wasn’t good with women’ and was ‘destined to f things up everywhere he went’ and it got to a point of self loathing. Like I get it, now move on and focus on the girl you’re with. And we only got the big revelation as to why he’s like this about 90% of the way in. So for the most part I was fed up and by the time the reveal (although it was understandable) I couldn’t really buy it.

I did rlly like them as a couple though. The feelings both of them were fighting were cute and I loved seeing them grow more and more comfortable together. There was actual substance to their relationship and they weren’t just being horn dogs the entire time (although the 🔥scenes were good). You know this was man was written by a woman bc v few men would act with as much understanding and patience towards their fake gf irl.

I did like how her job was such a big part of the story too, and that there were so many scenes with her in the coffee shop; it gave her a personality and made her more than just ‘shy introvert with a fake bf’ character. His job not so much, the author didn’t pay nearly as much attention to his work I felt.
Their families were also a rlly big part in the book which Iiked to see. And that aspect again bought life into the fake dating trope.

Overall I did like this book but I had some isssues with the characters etc.
Profile Image for Raquel.
119 reviews3 followers
May 10, 2026
I love nothing more than a man written by Michelle! Cole had me in a chokehold from the start! The chemistry and spice between him and Ariana 🔥🔥. I’ll be honest, pregnancy trope is usually a skip for me but Michelle made it fit the story in a way that felt organic and genuinely moved me. I actually cried. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Shana .
487 reviews80 followers
May 17, 2026
4.75⭐️ | 3🌶
Um so this is probably my favourite one because GAHHHH! I loved every single second. Cole was perfect for Ariana & Ariana for Cole. I loved them. Thank you to Michelle & team for the arc
Profile Image for Paloma Rodello.
207 reviews39 followers
May 15, 2026
Thank you Michelle Naomi Mosley and @rosereadsandrambles for an advanced reader copy of Blush Crush! Ariana and Cole’s story is such a wonderful addition to the Red Mountain series!!! I have loved getting to know these siblings story by story, and I loved this one probably the most since Rare Blend. I know lots of people have feelings about a pregnancy trope but I personally enjoy them and this one was so tasteful and well done. I think Cole may be my favorite Red Mountain man… subject to change…..
Profile Image for Jaime.
526 reviews20 followers
May 11, 2026
ARC Review
Blush Crush (Red Mountain Book 4) by Michelle Naomi Mosley
Out now & Free on Kindle Unlimited!

When young and inexperienced coffee shop owner Ariana Ledger needs help winning over her crush, she strikes up an arrangement with Cole Benton, her landlord and the CEO of her family's rival winery. He's a known playboy, but he needs a date to his ex's wedding, and he just so happens to be harboring a bit of a crush on the sweet, curvy, and clueless Ariana.

Their ten year age gap, the family business rivalry, Cole's friendship with Ariana's older brother, and his well-known player status along with her angelic reputation all add a level of difficulty to their plan. But it doesn't take long for their pretending to blur the lines of what's real and what's fake.

I love a down bad playboy. And whether it be her beauty, her size, her inexperience, or her capabilities, Cole does nothing but support and uplift our very insecure Ariana at every turn. There's so much pining, and when these two get to their "practicing", each step is scorching hot! Is a filthy gentleman a thing? Because that's what Cole is.

This book had some of my favorite tropes and it was a sweet and spicy treat! I have a new favorite Red Mountain book!

5⭐ 3.25🌶️

I read an early copy of this book, and this is my honest review. Thank you to author Michelle Naomi Mosely for the eARC!
Profile Image for alexandra.
1,170 reviews208 followers
May 18, 2026
5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

☆⋆。𖦹°‧★ Blush Crush☆⋆。𖦹°‧★

⁺₊★·.´🎧✩°。 0:56 ──♡───── 3:32 ⁺₊🎧★·.·´

🎶 “Do you ever think, when you're all alone. All that we could be, where this thing could go?” 🎶

Ariana Ledger (h) is a shy coffee shop owner who prefers romance novels to real dating, convinced she lacks the experience to ever succeed at love. When charming CEO Cole Benton (H) needs a fake girlfriend to survive an awkward situation with his ex, the arrangement seems perfect for both of them. She gets practice navigating romance, and he gets a convincing date with no emotional complications.

🌷₊˚ෆ💖ෆ˚₊✨ ♡ THOUGHTS ♡ ✨₊˚ෆ💖ෆ˚₊🌷

🚨WARNING: YOU WILL FALL IN LOVE WITH THEM 🚨

But that’s not me. I prefer hanging back and staying unnoticed. Which is also why my personal life isn’t exactly flourishing.


I love Ari and how she slowly got confident over time and found her style, and didn’t change for a man but because she was getting comfortable in her own skin. Cole loved her and accepted her when she was still a little shy and uncomfortable with asking for what she wanted, but together they learned each other, and he was so patient and just loved getting to know her 🥹💖💖💞💗💘. She was so adorable, and I truly adored how she was able to get her HEA because it was a long time coming. She deserved to be doted on and feel desirable because she was very insecure about her body, but Cole called her out on her shit and told her she was beautiful and needed to embrace it. He helped her gain so much confidence. She fumbled when she got nervous, so when she started to get nervous around Cole…OOOO THAT HIT. But he always reassured her and made her feel safe and told her she held the power in her hands. HE IS SO!!

“Fuck, doll.” He moans. “I don’t know what you put in these, but I think it’s addicting.”


“Sugar is more addictive than heroin, so yes, they are addictive.”


“Next time just say, ‘You’re welcome, Cole. Anything for you, Cole. I make them just for you, Col


They are truly so special to me!!! Ari fell for him hard, but he fell first and way harder. He ghosted her for months because he didn’t know what to do with the fact that he was experiencing real feelings and even pictured a future with her (something he has never wanted with anyone before). He’s truly the sweetest ever, but can be charming, cocky (but in a good way), and extremely flirty. He’s the epitome of man obsessed, and he loves to please (in all ways 🤭😮‍💨!!!!). Ari being a hopeless romantic makes this better because Cole became chivalrous and started doing things he never did with other women because he wanted to be better FOR HER. This man was literally down bad, and his only thought was her. Forget the fake-dating, he just wanted to be with her, and he needed it to be real and didn’t care about anything else. He didn’t want to push her and was scared that she would reject him, and she was scared he didn’t feel the same. I love my miscommunication favs who are actually down bad and don’t know how to admit it 🤭.

And seeing Ariana almost daily has become one of my favorite parts of the day.


Now he’s the best MMC of the series, and it feels like a severe betrayal to Dominic. I’m just going to say they are tied, but they are both yearners and OBSESSED with their girl.

I got the receipts (of Cole being the best MMC):

1. He rented a bookstore and rented out a cabin that gave off fairytale vibes 🧚✨
2. He is a certified eater 🤭💖🩷🩷💞
3. He doesn’t like coffee, but he goes to her shop as an excuse to see her because he wants to be in her presence 🥹 OH MY GOD THIS MAN!!!!!
4. He is obsessed with her chocolate croissants 🥐, which is the cutest ever!!!
5. He calls her doll, and that’s the name his grandma first called her when she saw her, so he had to meet her!!!
6. He calls her BABY during 🌶️ time!!! 🤭
7. Praise with a mix of degradation!!! COLE 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
8. He defended her in front of her brothers and called them out because he didn’t want her to be stressed!!!
9. He got her a mold of his 👀 so she could adjust to his size!!
10. He talked her through it!! We love a good guided spicy time!! 🚨‼️

“After I turned twenty-two, that hit me harder than any birthday before it. Because that was the year I realized I had officially lived longer without him than I ever had with him.”


On the emotional parts, Cole being a twin 🥺 IM SO SAD. I was not expecting that, it’s so tragic. He let himself be vulnerable with Ari and cried. I love him. Truly a sweetheart. He explained how his brother Miles shaped him into the person he is, how he feels like he can never live up to his dad’s expectations because all he sees is Miles. But he thinks his brother sent her 😭🥲 IM CRYING. The fact that he invited Ari to come to the cemetery with him, even though he always spent his birthday alone, is when I truly knew she was the one and he was hopelessly in love. He just wanted her around, and he felt safe with her enough to let his guard down, a part that other people never got to see. She saw all parts of him 🥺. Can I put him in my pocket? I love this man!!! He needs to be protected at all costs.

There’s nothing I enjoy more than waking up next to my beautiful wife. If I’m lucky, it’s early enough that the kids aren’t up yet and I have her to myself before we have to start the day.


STOP IT, THE FACT THAT SHE IS PREGNANT WITH TWINS 🥹 IM SO !!!! I love this for them truly. I love the pregnancy trope, and this worked so well for them. The five year time jump with Cole still being hopelessly in love and dedicated to Ari, and them having another baby boy named Miles. This is so special and truly the best book 🥹. We deserved so many more domestic scenes of him caring for her while she was pregnant, but just knowing he was obsessed and wanted to take care of her 24/7 is enough for me. They are the best parents!! I could probably read about these two forever. They were the epitome of everything I love in an FMC & MMC. MY PEOPLE FOREVER!!! 🩷💞

🌷₊˚ෆ💖ෆ˚₊✨ ♡ OVERALL ♡ ✨₊˚ෆ💖ෆ˚₊🌷

Cole saw me when no one else did. The shy girl constantly blushing as she fumbled her way through life and the guy next door with a crush and a half-assed plan.


I love love loved this book!!! Truly didn’t think anything could beat Dom & Elyse, but this one 100% did. I loved how quickly Cole got his shit together and endlessly teased her because he wanted a reaction from her 🤭 MY BEST BOY ACTUALLY!! I don’t care about reviews, this is a five star book, no complaints from me. He’s perfect actually, and he’s a certified eater, and always put her pleasure first (to the point where he finished in his pants 😮‍💨). THIS ONE IS A MUST READ ‼️‼️‼️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Maria.
155 reviews1 follower
May 16, 2026
Thank you so much Michelle (and her team) for the e-ARC!

🍷 fake dating
🥐 he falls first
🍷 spicy lessons (inexperienced FMC)
🥐 age gap (she's 23 / he's 33)
🍷 hopeless romantic FMC x no strings MMC
🥐 family dynamics
🍷 her family's winery is his family's biggest competition
🥐 he calls her "doll"

𖹭 Blurb recap 𖹭

Ariana Ledger is a hopeless romantic. She's the owner of Novel Teas and Coffee, a coffee shop. When she's not working, she's lost in the pages of fictional happily-ever-afters. Cole Benton is the CEO and winemaker of his family’s winery. Casual relationships only, he prefers to keep it no strings, easy and simple. When Cole's ex asks to host her wedding at his family's winery, he needs a fake date. The only way to get a break from his mother who's eager to see him in a serious relationship. The solution? Date Ariana. She has no real dating experience and wants to learn/practice so she doesn't blow her chances when the time comes. Cole agrees to teach her, and when it's done, they can walk away without any feelings. Simple, right?

☆ Review ☆

I loved reading Blush Crush! Truly, I had such a good time with this book. It had awesome tropes, everything worked well together, and the couple had undeniable chemistry. The smut was.... incredible, amazing, oh wow!

Cole spiraling because he wants Ariana so bad, but is trying to pretend he doesn't. He's not the type to catch feelings, but Ariana changes all the rules he had for himself.

Ariana finding someone who worships her, body and soul. All the happily-ever-afters she read don't compare to her real HEA - she found love, lust, kindness, respect, trust, and and a safe place to be herself.

I've read thousands of romances and dreamed of the day I'd get my own love story. And none of them come close. Ours is by far my favorite.


Ariana's story is genuine, honest, and she's easy to love. She's one of those characters you root for, hoping he gets everything she wants. And she did... Cole is perfect for her. Cole, as well, was so easy to fall in love with. He's very charming, caring, and sweet. My oh my, he was smitten from the beginning. He enjoys teasing her, even before their fake dating arrangement. Ariana had him obsessed, biting his knuckle and everything.

Seeing Cole battle with his feelings - he wants Ariana but he doesn't want that feeling at all. She sees her as a woman that deserves everything and much more, but doesn't think he could be good enough for her. When the story develops more, we learn through Cole's POV that he's scared of losing people he loves, so he keeps his distance to protect himself from these feelings. It worked so far, until he met Ariana. What about all the things she wants - love, marriage, babies? He can't promise that now. But when he thinks about her having those things with someone else... ohhhh no

Ariana doesn't feel ready for casual sex. Her only experience wasn't worth it, and so far she hasn't tried again. How to find someone who will treat her well, patiently, and not take advantage?
So... she asks Cole for some spicy lessons. She trusts him to be patient, and he proves to be so patient, caring, sweet, and thoughtful. I was so smileyyyy seeing Ariana describe her feelings - giggly, squirmy and distracted - around Cole. That beautiful man won her heart so smoothly. She was completely dickmatized 😉 Cole is atentive to Ariana, her needs and interests. He showcases an awesome mix of gift giving and acts of service. How could she not fall in looooove?

I love the family dynamics in this book. Cole's sister, Nora, teasing him about his newfound crush, while he denies and denies and says there is "no she" HAHAHAHAHA

“Oh my God. You’re blushing.” “I’m not blushing.” “Cole Matthew Benton, you are absolutely blushing.” “Who is she?” “Drop it, Nora.” “Cole has a crush,” “How old are you?” “Never too old to tease you. That’s how much.”


Cole's grandma calling Ariana "muñequita" was so precious! His whole family was so welcoming, as they already knew her, and were excited to have her join the family, and ohhh their parents were ready for the wedding and grandkids already!

Duchess, Ariana's cat! I adore pets in books and they always bring out funny/cute scenes. Cole interacting with Duchess and trying to get her to like him 🤣🤣

And how can I not giggle and kick my feet when they had scenes like these?

“Is that your thing? You like irritating me?” “Baby, I just like your attention. Any way I can get it.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” “No reason. You’re just cute.” “Cute? I think you mean manly and rugged.” “No.” “Definitely cute.” “Mm.”
🥺💗🤣💘 STOPPPP yes he's so cute!

Now, can I get into the smut? PLEASE. Cole is a wet dream. He had me gasping. I was jaw-dropped reading the smutty things he says to Ariana. Truly a highlight in this book! I loved the smut! So much!! His dirty talk was FIRE.

If you need some convicing... these quotes will have you running to read this book 😩 If not, then they're marked as spoilers so it's all a niiiiice surprise 😉

❤️‍🔥
❤️‍🔥
❤️‍🔥
❤️‍🔥
❤️‍🔥

Overall, this book was an amazing read! All the tropes worked out perfectly, and I don't have any complaints. I loved the MCs and the side characters (previous books), and specially all the family dynamics, siblings, and everyone. Ariana and Cole were very lovable, had their own past experiences and hidden truths that they share with each other. So important to see Cole opening up to Ariana about one specific experience that shaped who he is, and why he was so fearful of commitment. The things that they had a hard time with, the parts of themselves that hurt - they were appreciated and cherished.

ㅤ♡ㅤ♡ㅤ♡ "You’re the best part of my day. You’re the best part of everything. My favorite person, actually. I want to be the guy for you, not the guy you practice with while you’re waiting for someone better. Let me be better. I can make you happy, baby. I promise. Please just let me.” ㅤ ♡ㅤ♡ㅤ♡

Finally, the 3rd act pregnancy came at the "right" time and opened a special 'ending' to their story. I already like this trope, so I had a great time reading the scenes that come after that. We got an even sweeter side of Cole. The ending was so so precious!!! 🥺🥺💗💗

I wish I had time to read the previous 3 books in the series before I got to read Blush Crush, so I could dive into the whole series completely. Luckily, Michelle provided a "Characters catch up" - so those that didn't read the other books, or those that did read but needed to refresh their memory - could go into this book with a clear idea of the other couples. So, it can be read as a standalone, but I'd advise reading the series in order, like I wish I had :)
Profile Image for Melissa.
572 reviews59 followers
July 8, 2026
Michelle has done it again! Another book written beautifully while also adding amazingness to this series.

I am a sucker for a fake dating romance. We all know there's nothing fake about the chemistry the leads have and we all know what's gonna happen between them AND STILL, I eat it up!

Cole, Mr. Playboy, needs a date to his ex's wedding which his winery is hosting. To get his mother off his back, he tells her he will have a date and not to meddle. And he knows exactly who he wants...the girl at the bake shop he's definitely been secretly pining over.

Ariana is me, I am Ariana. The way I related to this girl is INSANE. Her insecurities are my insecurities. Her thoughts are my thoughts. Her friends yelling at her to tell the guy she likes him is my friends yelling at me to do the same. CRAZY. Obviously I loved her, no bias or anything 😏

Together, these two had such beautiful yet heated chemistry and I was loving it. The spicy lessons?? UGH, PERFFECT. I'm lowkey jealous of Ariana, ngl.

Cole was the perfect person to end up with Ariana. He was patient and kind and respectful but once he got the green light, that man went feral for her and I went feral for him. As much of a "reckless lover boy" reputation he had, I saw someone who cares so deeply and loves with all his heart.

I just absolutely loved where this story went and seeing the character growth from both of them. I love all the sibling cameos and I love how emotional this story got.

Such a beautiful addition to this series and I'm so excited for the next one!
Profile Image for Sarah (The Kindred Reader).
579 reviews15 followers
May 21, 2026
[4.5 Stars] Ohhhhh my goodness, how I love reformed playboy-turned-down bad man, and Cole Benton is one I'll remember for a while. I loved Ariana and Cole's story, and I couldn't wipe the smile off my face while I was reading it. Cole was so charismatic and charming, and Ariana was my kind of girl because she was so relatable. I thought the story had great pacing, fun banter, swoony moments, spice that made me break a sweat, and NOT TO MENTION a callback to one of my favorite teenage-me movies (and, ok, adult-me too!)!

Despite all of the wonderful surface-level things I love about romance books, Michelle Naomi Mosley has a way of exploring deeper themes that resonate, and Blush Crush was no exception. I loved how Ariana struggled with her self-image, and while Cole was, initially, a way for her to "practice", I loved how he was able to magnify Ariana's self-worth without defining it. And not to mention Cole's reveal had me in tears because I wasn't prepared for that!

I'm so happy that I discovered Michelle Naomi Mosley, and I can't wait to see what stories she comes out with next! But, I gotta tell ya, it's not a bad way to leave me with Cole Benton.

+Thanks to Michelle Naomi Mosley and her team for the ARC of Blush Crush!
Profile Image for Kaity.
2,023 reviews48 followers
May 14, 2026
fake dating perfection <3 <3
Profile Image for Lauren.
307 reviews57 followers
May 16, 2026
First of all thank you Michelle for the ARC! And second I love this series! This was SO GOOD! I do have to say this book had a little more spice than I like but I mean… that is a personal preference! I still thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Cindy.
130 reviews13 followers
May 6, 2026
As a surprise to no one, Blush Crush is another fantastic installment of the Red Mountain Series, and my new favorite. I knew immediately this book was going to be high on my list when the tropes and summary were revealed because it had so many of my favorite things.
This book focuses on Ariana, the youngest Ledger, and Cole, the oldest Benton, on their journey from faking dating to full happily ever after. Ariana is a hopeless romantic and has never felt like she was important enough to live a love story like she so often reads about. She struggles with insecurities and confidence, and it hurt my soul because I know all of us can relate. But through those doubts and insecurities, Cole is there from the very beginning, yearning and aching for her attention. He doesn’t think he’s good enough for her, and is very hesitant to be in a real relationship, but with her, he is so hopeful and I love that they both gave each other the confidence and security they needed. Their chemistry is immediate, and mixed in with the banter and flirting they cannot seem to stop throwing at one another, I was giggling and kicking my feet constantly. The walls they have put around their hearts slowly start to fall the more time they spend with one another and it's obvious Cole wants to find love just as badly as Ariana.
The sex lessons Cole has agreed to with Ariana in exchange for her cooperation in a fake relationship are so hot I really felt like I had to step away and recalibrate my brain. Cole is the hottest and dirtiest MMC to date in this series, but simultaneously soft and gentle when it comes to Ariana. As inexperienced as she is, he ensures that she always feels safe and heard, which is something she has always yearned for. He sees her fully, not just sexually, but as a person and it's the most swoon worthy thing about him. Not only that, the tension, angst, yearning, and sometimes jealousy is so delicious it makes you feel all sorts of fluttery inside.
The longer the arrangement goes on, the more they realize it’s so much more, and my heart nearly gave out from the tenderness of their relationship. There were so many times where they had soft moments, things in passing, that were so beautiful and nearly brought tears to my eyes. They understand each other so completely that it’s hard to even fathom that they were not made for one another.
Michelle created a story full of heart, the best comedic timing, and so SO much yummy spice. These characters are so real and complex that your attachment to them is inevitable. I love that I experienced every emotion possible while reading this and it was an absolutely amazing time. Cole and Ariana are so, so special and I can’t for everyone to fall in love with their love.

Thank you Michelle Naomi Mosley for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Profile Image for Lacey.
159 reviews1 follower
October 4, 2026
Blush Crush 🍷

Red Mountain Series #4

@authormichellenaomimosley

Publication Date: May 14th, 2026

My Rating:
🌟 5/5

👀Read if you like
Small Town
Fake Dating
Age Gap

He needs a date. She needs the practice.
Ariana Ledger is a hopeless romantic who’d rather lose herself in romance novels than face the reality of her nonexistent dating life. As the owner of Red Mountain’s beloved coffee shop, Novel Teas and Coffee, she’s content living in fictional happily-ever-afters—until a charming man strolls into town and checks every box on her dream-man list. There’s just one problem. Ariana has no real dating experience, and she’s convinced it’s only a matter of time before she sabotages her own chances.
Cole Benton learned a long time ago that nothing good lasts forever. As the CEO and winemaker of his family’s winery, he prefers keeping his relationships casual and uncomplicated. But when his ex shows up engaged and asks to host her wedding at his winery, Cole needs a solution—fast. Enter Ariana. She needs dating experience. He needs a convincing girlfriend. Fake dating is the perfect arrangement.

🔎 My review
Every time I return to Red Mountain, it feels like coming home. 🥹📚 This series just keeps getting better, and Blush Crush completely won me over!
I was absolutely obsessed with Ariana and Cole's story. This is such a character-driven romance, and I found myself smiling through so many of their moments together. 😊💕
Ariana is such a kind, genuine soul, but she struggles to see her own worth at times. Watching her grow in confidence throughout the story was one of my favorite parts. And then there's Cole... 🥹❤️ The way he supports her, respects her, and never stops reminding her how incredible she is made him impossible not to love.
Their chemistry is undeniable, and the romance is full of sweet moments, heartfelt emotion, and plenty of sparks that kept me turning the pages. ✨

#BlushCrush 🌸
#MichelleNaomiMosley 📚
#RedMountainSeries 🌄
#SmallTownRomance 🏡💕
Profile Image for Evelin.
62 reviews
June 2, 2026
MY RATING: 4⭐
BOOK FEATURES:

• Contemporary Romance
• Small Town Romance
• Romentic Comedy
• He Falls First
• Slow Burn Romance
• Fake Relationship
• Age Gap

MY THOUGHTS:
I have to admit, I requested this ARC because I judged it by its cover. I’m so glad I was influenced by it, because I really liked this story!

I absolutely loved the beginning. Even though it gave us the usual clichéd fake dating trope, it still hooked me right from the start. Maybe it's because the characters didn’t treat each other like they actually hated one another but they acted as friends. The chemistry between them totally worked, and there was a really natural transition at the beginning as they started getting closer.

I really liked that it started out as a slow burn; I think it set a great foundation for the whole story. However, things sped up a bit towards the middle, and by the end, things were happening so fast it was hard to keep up. I had the same issue with the very end: the final plot twist came out of nowhere, and it felt pretty rushed and a little bit unnecessary. It felt like the author just wanted to wrap things up as quickly as possible.

I loved Cole's character development. The progression was perfect — he always just wanted a little bit more, rather than realizing he loved Ariana all at once. Ariana’s growth was just as good as she gradually tried to overcome her insecurities and accept herself the way she was.

One thing that felt weird to me, though, was her physical description. In the story, she was described as a woman with a fuller figure, but on the cover, she had a completely standard body type. And I got the feeling it wasn’t just Ariana’s own insecurity making her think she was a little bit „curvier” but the author made her like that. This bothered me so much because it left me confused about how to actually picture her if not based on the cover.

By the end, the spicy scenes were a bit too much for my personal taste, but of course, that’s just my preference. It just felt like, considering how slowly they started and how modest and a „beginner” Ariana was at first, things escalated way too fast, which felt a bit unrealistic to me.

Overall, I really enjoyed it! I’ll definitely be reading the rest of the series and I’m super excited for the next book!

CONTENT WARNINGS:
• Trauma
• Explicit Sexual Content
• Consumption of Alcohol
• Mention of Death
• Grief
• Mild Language
• Accidental Pregnancy
• Mention of Miscarriage
Profile Image for Laura Lee.
99 reviews9 followers
May 28, 2026
4.5 rounded to 5!

I'm not sure why but I always eat up a 'quiet, shy, hopeless romantic girl (bonus that she's a bookworm) meets playboy heartthrob who isn't looking to settle' storyline, and this was no exception! Mix in some fake dating turns real deal, friendly banter, and some spicy lessons for our somewhat inexperienced FMC, and I'm done for.

This book also has an unexpected pregnancy (my first time reading this trope), and I was pleasantly surprised. It wasn't the main focus, and it wasn't overdone. I feel like it was just the right amount for someone who hasn't read the unexpected pregnancy trope or for someone (like me) who thought they might not like it.

Blush Crush is book 4 --and by far the spiciest-- in the Red Mountain series! It can be read as an interconnected standalone, but I recommend reading in order to prevent any potential spoilers.

Thank you so much, @authormichellenaomimosley for the arc. I can't wait to visit Red Mountain again! I can't get enough! 🤍
Profile Image for Selma.
178 reviews4 followers
June 2, 2026
First off if you have never read anything by this author ✍️ please do so. Second this book had me 😢 ugly crying and smiling to myself and then feeling all the feels. It is so fucking beautiful!
The way that these two characters thought they deserved less and were not aware of how incredible they each were was devastatingly beautiful. I swear I found myself relating on so many levels to Ariana and wishing I’d find a man like Cole. He was sooo good to her and for her.
“If there’s one thing I want her to take from our arrangement it’s this that she’s desired, wanted. She’s so much more than she gives herself credit for.” Oh my gosh and the way he made her blush throughout the story was amazing. I will say there was more spice in this one than her previous books but I think it goes well with the premise of the book. I loved every second of this one!
I can’t wait for the next one
Thank you Michelle for the ARC
All opinions are my own and are in no way biased
Profile Image for Ellie Burgoyne.
340 reviews9 followers
June 2, 2026
4.5⭐️

This is the 4th book in red mountain series and I really enjoyed this .

We follow Cole and Ariana , Ariana works in a coffe shop while Cole works in a winery company at his family business .

When Cole finds out that Ariana is not experienced with men , he has to make it his mission to be her fake boyfriend and teach her how a man is meant to treat her. And omg the things he does for her is so cute and also spicy ofc!! 👀🤭.
However Cole has an exterior motive , to make Ariana his for real .

I loved how Cole was jealous when other men spoke to Ariana and he did not hold back . The way he boosted her confidence , made her feel special in so many ways and treated her to different dates that were perfect and swoon worthy .

I found my self a lot like Ariana in some ways and related to her a lot , I liked how she trusted Cole with everything and I enjoyed her character growth a lot , I loved the ending and the twist it had in the book.


Tropes :

Small town
Fake dating
Spicy lessons
Age gap
Dual pov
Rival families
Found family
Latino fmc
Surprised pregnancy
Profile Image for Allie DeMars.
381 reviews14 followers
May 10, 2026
4.25 ⭐️

Age Gap
Brothers Best Friend
Spicy Lessons
Fake Dating
She’s Inexperienced

I had such a good time with this book. It had a lot of my favorite tropes, so that really intrigued me! I actually loved the “underdog FMC” storyline (which I don’t usually enjoy much). And I grew to love Ariana very quickly. As for Cole, he is the broody building owner and brother’s best friend. He fit the part perfectly. It also seemed like he’s had a crush on her for a longggg time and i loved seeing that play out.

What I didn’t enjoy, as much, was the length of the book. It felt a little drawn out in some parts. But I still really enjoyed the book and would recommend it.

Thank you Michelle Naomi Mosley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Kelly Hernandez.
348 reviews9 followers
May 9, 2026
I can tell you without a shadow of a doubt that this book will be ingrained in my brain forever. It was so beautifully written, and this has become my favorite book that Michelle has written. The romance between Cole and Ariana was paced so well, and the love he has for her was unmatched. He would walk through fire for her, and it was just so wonderful to see Ariana loved for who she was.

This story reminds me of hope and love, and how we as women should be cherished. GO READ IT!

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Tropes:
-small town
-fake dating
-age gap (he’s 10 years older)
-dual POV
-surprised pregnancy
-spicy lessons
Profile Image for Karen B.
2,255 reviews34 followers
May 15, 2026
An age-gap, fake-dating romance with the upped ante of the innocent FMC and hardened MMC of rival families. Easy to like and realistic characters! Ariana needs lessons in love, Cole needs a convincing girlfriend for a date. Their romance started slowly as they navigated getting to know each other, both intimately and emotionally, then became spicy and passionate, but always consenting, sweet and cute. There were a few twists that threw them for a loop but it was enduring how they worked through the situations—their happily ever after was well-earned.
Thanks to the author for the eARC
Profile Image for Lyla Nadeau.
750 reviews7 followers
May 5, 2026
He really grew on me!!!! This is a little bit of a snow burn but it’s sooo good! The writing is done so well and their chemistry is fantastic!!! There are some shocking moments in the last little bit of the book but it really came together and flowed really well! I really enjoyed it! And the spice in this one is probably my favorite so far! Even though I love book 2, this was really hot!
Profile Image for Jade_Reads2019.
264 reviews13 followers
Review of advance copy
May 7, 2026
I have no words. I am speechless. This is everything I could ever ask for in a romance. I’ve never felt more seen than I have in this novel. Massive thank you to to the author for providing me with an arc of this. I am so grateful! I can’t wait to read more from this series.

Where do I begin with this one? There’s lovable characters, a place that feels like home, banter full of love, joy, heartbreak, funny, small town and a book where o felt seen
It’s been an absolute pleasure to be back to the Red mountain series and I don’t want to ever leave.

Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Eliza.
104 reviews2 followers
May 17, 2026
I genuinely didn’t think anyone could knock Dominic out of my #1 spot but Michelle really said hold my wine because COLE BENTON?! I’m obsessed!!

That man loved Ariana so softly and intentionally while still carrying his own fears and vulnerability. The communication. The patience. The way his fear of rejection never stopped him from asking for more with her?? Swoooon. He saw Ariana in ways nobody else did, and she saw him right back.

Ariana was impossible not to root for. Sweet, shy, overlooked, but so genuine and lovable. Watching her come out of her shell with Cole had me giggling and kicking my feet the entire time. And Cole? Down astronomically bad from the beginning. Teasing her, obsessing over her, trying to fight his feelings and failing miserably.

Their chemistry, the fake dating, the tenderness, the emotional growth… EVERYTHING hit. The way they loved each other’s broken parts made this story feel so special. Easily one of my favorite romances ever.
22 reviews4 followers
May 18, 2026
Favorite Quote: “Yet another reason I’ll remain perpetually single. It’s not as if some book boyfriend is going to jump from the pages. Although, it’d be nice.”
Reading Platform: Kindle
Pros: The coffee shops with the books.
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️/5

Blush crush is the book for those nerdy book girls. It is like the author took my internal thoughts and put them on a page. At one moment, I thought, did she just read my journal.

I love that she is so perfectly captures each of them fall in love. His starting the night he creeped on her and hers in the moments that he made her feel seen.

The family “feud” made it all the more funny when the dads are betting on things in their kids life. I laughed when they announced they were in love and engaged and the dad had to pay up.

Their lessons to love just made it all the sweeter when he starts letting her in on his past and tell her about is brother. My heart just broke for him. I could read this book again just for the quick wit and enemies to lovers vibe. I won’t lie her being a book nerd made it even better. He got her on so many levels. I mean their date at the book store and then the cottage just sign me up for swooning!

Rating: 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Mattie.
238 reviews20 followers
May 17, 2026
4.5 stars. Michelle simply never misses
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