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Red Mountain Series #4
Blush Crush
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.
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.
444 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 14, 2026
About the author
Michelle Naomi Mosley
9 books223 followersTechnical 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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Review of advance copy received from Author
“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.”
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?!?!
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
EXCUSE MEEEEEEEEEE
This book really thrives in that space between playful and painfully vulnerable. One second you’re giggling at their banter—
—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??
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 (she's 23 / he's 33)
🌸 fake dating
🌸 he falls first
🌸 spicy lessons
🌸 he gets jealous
🌸 found confidence / self-worth arc
🌸 "grab the headboard" (iykyk)
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
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 (she's 23 / he's 33)
🌸 fake dating
🌸 he falls first
🌸 spicy lessons
🌸 he gets jealous
🌸 found confidence / self-worth arc
🌸 "grab the headboard" (iykyk)
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
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!
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
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
May 17, 2026
Blush Crush is 5⭐ 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 Bentonis 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 wasn’t 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 felt connected to Ariana and her story, but even if I didn't, her story is genuine, honest, and she's easy to love and empathize with. 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, not on his watch.
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
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?
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 :)
🍷 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 Bentonis 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 wasn’t 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.
I felt connected to Ariana and her story, but even if I didn't, her story is genuine, honest, and she's easy to love and empathize with. 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, not on his watch.
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 :)
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 🚨
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!!
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 🤭.
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!! 🚨‼️
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.
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˚₊🌷
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 ‼️‼️‼️
☆⋆｡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.
May 18, 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…..
May 14, 2026
fake dating perfection <3 <3
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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
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
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
Thanks to the author for the eARC
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!
Review of advance copy
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 : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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 : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 17, 2026
4.5 stars. Michelle simply never misses
May 20, 2026
I absolutely ADORED this book. these two together was absolute perfection and their chemistry was *chefs kiss*
between the fake dating and the *spicy lessons* I also fell in love with these two. I loved the way they found themselves within each other and that they actually communicated! it was nice to see. their HEA is so well deserved, and even though there were some bumps along the way, they never deviated from each other. it was perfect.
between the fake dating and the *spicy lessons* I also fell in love with these two. I loved the way they found themselves within each other and that they actually communicated! it was nice to see. their HEA is so well deserved, and even though there were some bumps along the way, they never deviated from each other. it was perfect.
May 20, 2026
Blush Crush by Michelle Naomi Mosley
The 4th book following Ariana and Cole
This book is me! I am her she is me!
When I tell you these two have my heart and soul!
I loveeeeeee Ariana and Cole so so much!
Not only have I never related more to an FMC character but everything was just perfect!
We have one of my favorite tropes, fake dating!!
He is older than her!
He TEACHES HER SPICY THINGSSS
PLEASEEEEE🙌🏻
He is so down bad and she doesn’t even know it!🥹
I want to be loved by a Cole!
Oh and he is basically bffs with HER BROTHER!!
And we have a 3rd act PREGNANCY TROPE!!!
Ahhhhhh
They’re story was perfect!
These characters are perfect!
I NEEEEEEED everyone to read them pleaseeeee🥹
Thank you so much Michelle for letting me read this as an arc and I have had the best time with
The 4th book following Ariana and Cole
This book is me! I am her she is me!
When I tell you these two have my heart and soul!
I loveeeeeee Ariana and Cole so so much!
Not only have I never related more to an FMC character but everything was just perfect!
We have one of my favorite tropes, fake dating!!
He is older than her!
He TEACHES HER SPICY THINGSSS
PLEASEEEEE🙌🏻
He is so down bad and she doesn’t even know it!🥹
I want to be loved by a Cole!
Oh and he is basically bffs with HER BROTHER!!
And we have a 3rd act PREGNANCY TROPE!!!
Ahhhhhh
They’re story was perfect!
These characters are perfect!
I NEEEEEEED everyone to read them pleaseeeee🥹
Thank you so much Michelle for letting me read this as an arc and I have had the best time with
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐ 4.25 stars
Ariana Ledger, the youngest Ledger sibling, is a shy, curvy, hopeless romantic who would much rather lose herself in romance novels than believe she deserves a love story of her own. She owns the sweetest little coffee shop in Red Mountain, struggles with insecurities and confidence, and has spent most of her life feeling like she was never quite enough.
Then there’s Cole Benton, the oldest Benton sibling, CEO of his family's winery, charming, annoying, emotionally avoidant, commitment-phobic… and completely gone for Ariana before he even realises it himself.
When Cole needs a fake date for his ex’s wedding, and Ariana needs “dating experience” to help with her crush, the two strike a deal: fake dating and a few lessons in confidence and attraction.
Simple, right? Except nothing about them ever feels simple.
And THAT is what made this romance work so well for me.
From the very beginning, Cole is constantly seeking Ariana out, whether it’s through teasing her, annoying her on purpose, or quietly taking care of her in ways she never expects. And Ariana feels safe with him always, even when he’s driving her insane every five minutes.
Because yes, Cole is jealous, possessive, flirty, and has an absolutely filthy mouth, but beneath all of that, he’s unbelievably gentle with Ariana. He sees every insecurity she carries and never once makes her feel like she has to shrink herself to be loved.
Their chemistry is immediate, and mixed in with the banter and constant flirting, I was giggling and kicking my feet the entire time. The fake dating slowly turns into friendship, then comfort, then yearning, then something so soft and emotionally intimate that it nearly made my heart burst.
And the tension??? INSANE.
The “lessons” between them were genuinely so hot I had to pause and recalibrate my brain for a second. Cole Benton talks DIRTY. But what I loved most was how safe Ariana always felt with him. No matter how inexperienced she was, he always made sure she felt heard, comfortable, and wanted.
I also really appreciated the curvy girl representation. Ariana’s insecurities felt painfully real at times, especially the way she doubted herself before anyone else even had the chance to. But Cole being so openly, unapologetically obsessed with her body and with her as a person? Everything to me.
Another thing I loved was that the family rivalry wasn’t unnecessarily dramatic. Despite the competing wineries, there’s still warmth and support between the families, which honestly felt refreshing compared to the usual enemies-to-lovers setup.
And the tenderness in this book?? GOD.
There were so many small moments that nearly made me emotional. The quiet reassurance. The lingering touches. The way they slowly became each other’s safe place without even realising it.
The surprise toward the end perfectly wrapped up their relationship journey and honestly made everything feel even more worth it.
The writing itself was easy to follow and emotionally immersive, especially when it came to Ariana’s insecurities and growth. The only thing that didn’t fully work for me was the length in some places, but everything else? Absolutely swoon-worthy.
Now I desperately need to go back and read the rest of this series before the next book comes out.
“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.”
Ariana Ledger, the youngest Ledger sibling, is a shy, curvy, hopeless romantic who would much rather lose herself in romance novels than believe she deserves a love story of her own. She owns the sweetest little coffee shop in Red Mountain, struggles with insecurities and confidence, and has spent most of her life feeling like she was never quite enough.
Then there’s Cole Benton, the oldest Benton sibling, CEO of his family's winery, charming, annoying, emotionally avoidant, commitment-phobic… and completely gone for Ariana before he even realises it himself.
When Cole needs a fake date for his ex’s wedding, and Ariana needs “dating experience” to help with her crush, the two strike a deal: fake dating and a few lessons in confidence and attraction.
Simple, right? Except nothing about them ever feels simple.
“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.”
And THAT is what made this romance work so well for me.
From the very beginning, Cole is constantly seeking Ariana out, whether it’s through teasing her, annoying her on purpose, or quietly taking care of her in ways she never expects. And Ariana feels safe with him always, even when he’s driving her insane every five minutes.
Because yes, Cole is jealous, possessive, flirty, and has an absolutely filthy mouth, but beneath all of that, he’s unbelievably gentle with Ariana. He sees every insecurity she carries and never once makes her feel like she has to shrink herself to be loved.
“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.”
Their chemistry is immediate, and mixed in with the banter and constant flirting, I was giggling and kicking my feet the entire time. The fake dating slowly turns into friendship, then comfort, then yearning, then something so soft and emotionally intimate that it nearly made my heart burst.
And the tension??? INSANE.
The “lessons” between them were genuinely so hot I had to pause and recalibrate my brain for a second. Cole Benton talks DIRTY. But what I loved most was how safe Ariana always felt with him. No matter how inexperienced she was, he always made sure she felt heard, comfortable, and wanted.
“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.”
I also really appreciated the curvy girl representation. Ariana’s insecurities felt painfully real at times, especially the way she doubted herself before anyone else even had the chance to. But Cole being so openly, unapologetically obsessed with her body and with her as a person? Everything to me.
“She’s immaculate. My fucking new religion. And she’s mine.”
Another thing I loved was that the family rivalry wasn’t unnecessarily dramatic. Despite the competing wineries, there’s still warmth and support between the families, which honestly felt refreshing compared to the usual enemies-to-lovers setup.
And the tenderness in this book?? GOD.
There were so many small moments that nearly made me emotional. The quiet reassurance. The lingering touches. The way they slowly became each other’s safe place without even realising it.
“No lines for you, baby. Just the truth. And the truth is no amount’s too much to spend on you. You really are priceless to me.”
The surprise toward the end perfectly wrapped up their relationship journey and honestly made everything feel even more worth it.
The writing itself was easy to follow and emotionally immersive, especially when it came to Ariana’s insecurities and growth. The only thing that didn’t fully work for me was the length in some places, but everything else? Absolutely swoon-worthy.
Now I desperately need to go back and read the rest of this series before the next book comes out.
May 21, 2026
“I thought by now I’d be over this little obsession I’ve had with her, but it’s only gotten worse.“
This book spoke to me in ways I could never even fathom and made me feel more seen as a person than any other book — especially when it came to self doubt, being a curvier girl, and loving coffee and books all in one.
Blush Crush caught me by surprise and quickly put me in a chokehold — to say it quietly snuck up on me and blew me away in the most emotionally relatable way is an understatement and I was not prepared in the slightest of how good this book was and how much it has come to mean to me!
This romance novel was such a sweet, and addictive smalltown-esq contemporary romance with the perfect balance of tension, humor, heart and of course, the most amazing & delicious spice you could ever imagine. Michelle Naomi Mosley absolutely NAILED the fake dating trope and all the tension that comes with it, all while still making the relationship feel genuine and emotionally layered — no one thought it was fake from the start.
“Cradling her cheeks, I stroke my thumbs through her tears, staring into her ocean eyes. Eyes I know I’m going to look into for the rest of my life. Because she’s it for me. And it would take an act of God to get me to leave her.“
Without a doubt, Blush Crush is my favorite of the Red Mountain series thus far — I’ve loved all the books & its characters immensely throughout this series, but Dominic now has a run for his money with my new favorite Red Mountain book boyfriend, Cole Benton. Michelle never ever misses with her writing, and this book left me wanting more of it every time I had to put the book down for one reason or another. One thing i’ve come to love so much & appreciate about romance novels is the setting the author always chooses and the winery setting has now become a soft spot for me in terms of my favorite, and especially in my home state of Washington! The winery setting Michelle has imputed throughout the series, and especially this novel too, has added such a cozy charm to the story and that mixed with the family winery rivalry element gave the romance extra tension, but without ever overpowering the emotional development or taking away from the characters as they are. And I also loved that the rivalry wasn’t even that much of a rivalry???? I feel like I hardly ever see that in novels that characters that have similar businesses and I loved that so much, it was refreshing to see that there wasn’t as much bad blood between the families as you would think on the surface. As a reader who hates confrontation, it helped lessen the tension and stress in my own body as I was reading to see that the families actually hung out together. On top of that, I REALLY enjoyed how the book explored vulnerability, self-worth, and learning to take risks in love.Literally the most human things you could ever incorporate into a book, and thats why I feel this book is just SO special by itself and what it stands for in these characters.
I literally need to shut up because I could go on and on about how much I adored this book, but this review is already becoming a whole essay, so with that, IF YOURE READING THIS REVEIW AND YOU MADE IT THIS FAR — GO READ THIS MASTERPIECE RIGHT NOW.
Michelle, I love you and your brain. Thank you for letting me along for the ride to Red Mountain since the beginning!
“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. She’s not some fling I can shake and then move on from.”
What to expect in Blush Crush:
🌷 fake dating
🌷 he falls first
🌷 cafe owner x winery ceo
🌷 spicy lessons (she’s inexperienced)
🌷 age gap
🌷 hopeless romantic fmc x reformed playboy mmc
🌷 family dynamics x minor family rivalry
Thank you to Michelle & her team for letting me arc read this amazing novel and always writing the best stories that I always want to drown myself in!
This book spoke to me in ways I could never even fathom and made me feel more seen as a person than any other book — especially when it came to self doubt, being a curvier girl, and loving coffee and books all in one.
Blush Crush caught me by surprise and quickly put me in a chokehold — to say it quietly snuck up on me and blew me away in the most emotionally relatable way is an understatement and I was not prepared in the slightest of how good this book was and how much it has come to mean to me!
This romance novel was such a sweet, and addictive smalltown-esq contemporary romance with the perfect balance of tension, humor, heart and of course, the most amazing & delicious spice you could ever imagine. Michelle Naomi Mosley absolutely NAILED the fake dating trope and all the tension that comes with it, all while still making the relationship feel genuine and emotionally layered — no one thought it was fake from the start.
“Cradling her cheeks, I stroke my thumbs through her tears, staring into her ocean eyes. Eyes I know I’m going to look into for the rest of my life. Because she’s it for me. And it would take an act of God to get me to leave her.“
Without a doubt, Blush Crush is my favorite of the Red Mountain series thus far — I’ve loved all the books & its characters immensely throughout this series, but Dominic now has a run for his money with my new favorite Red Mountain book boyfriend, Cole Benton. Michelle never ever misses with her writing, and this book left me wanting more of it every time I had to put the book down for one reason or another. One thing i’ve come to love so much & appreciate about romance novels is the setting the author always chooses and the winery setting has now become a soft spot for me in terms of my favorite, and especially in my home state of Washington! The winery setting Michelle has imputed throughout the series, and especially this novel too, has added such a cozy charm to the story and that mixed with the family winery rivalry element gave the romance extra tension, but without ever overpowering the emotional development or taking away from the characters as they are. And I also loved that the rivalry wasn’t even that much of a rivalry???? I feel like I hardly ever see that in novels that characters that have similar businesses and I loved that so much, it was refreshing to see that there wasn’t as much bad blood between the families as you would think on the surface. As a reader who hates confrontation, it helped lessen the tension and stress in my own body as I was reading to see that the families actually hung out together. On top of that, I REALLY enjoyed how the book explored vulnerability, self-worth, and learning to take risks in love.Literally the most human things you could ever incorporate into a book, and thats why I feel this book is just SO special by itself and what it stands for in these characters.
I literally need to shut up because I could go on and on about how much I adored this book, but this review is already becoming a whole essay, so with that, IF YOURE READING THIS REVEIW AND YOU MADE IT THIS FAR — GO READ THIS MASTERPIECE RIGHT NOW.
Michelle, I love you and your brain. Thank you for letting me along for the ride to Red Mountain since the beginning!
“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. She’s not some fling I can shake and then move on from.”
What to expect in Blush Crush:
🌷 fake dating
🌷 he falls first
🌷 cafe owner x winery ceo
🌷 spicy lessons (she’s inexperienced)
🌷 age gap
🌷 hopeless romantic fmc x reformed playboy mmc
🌷 family dynamics x minor family rivalry
Thank you to Michelle & her team for letting me arc read this amazing novel and always writing the best stories that I always want to drown myself in!
May 21, 2026
4.5 stars.
Thank you to the author and Mariposa Books for sharing an ARC with me in exchange for my honest review.
This book was so. good. I loved it and already want to read it again. I need to go back and catch up on the rest of the Red Mountain series. This book had chemistry and banter, and the perfect combination of fun and emotional moments. I was prepared to give this 5 stars but the ending bumped it down for me a bit.
The plot:
Book lover and coffee shop owner Ariana loves the idea of love, but she feels like no one ever notices her. As the youngest daughter in a prolific winery-owning family, she feels invisible in comparison to her older siblings. She's pretty inexperienced in the love department, and it certainly shows when she tries to flirt with a handsome customer. Just as she thinks he's trying to ask her out, her landlord and sort of friend Cole steps in with an offer: fake date him so she can learn how to speak to a man. Cole is the CEO of another winery in town, not to mention a serial f boy and one of Ariana's older brother's friends... and ten years her senior. He doesn't see commitment in his future, much to his mother's chagrin. So Ariana is going to do him a favor too: while pretending to be his girlfriend, she'll also be his date to his ex's wedding at his winery. just to keep his mom out of his hair. Plus, Cole can't seem to get Ariana off his mind, so maybe this little charade will help scratch the itch. That is, until Ariana requests spicy lessons, and both she and Cole are forced to question what's fake and what's real.
What I liked:
- The author included some really cool sections prior to starting the story. One was a character catch up section. Since this is book 4 in the Red Mountain series, this was the author's opportunity to catch readers up on the important characters in this world. This was especially useful to me as a first time reader. This can definitely be read as a standalone, but the context was super helpful. There's also a Spanish 101 section, with translations for Spanish phrases used throughout the book, and a playlist.
- Dual POV. I love knowing what both main characters are thinking.
- Some super fun tropes: fake dating, age gap, he gives her a nickname, she wears his clothes, one bed
- Banter galore! Ariana and Cole are super funny together, and it's especially fun because Ariana reserves that side of herself for Cole. "She's never snarky with anyone but me and I love it every single time."
- I really liked both Ariana and Cole as characters. They had interesting plot lines and understandable motivations. But I especially loved Cole. He's my new book boyfriend. He's an acts of service man but he also has the words to articulate his feelings, and he can read Ariana so well. He's open about being attracted to her and that in and of itself is attractive. And his mouth... the man is hot, no doubt about it. And Ariana is very lovely and supportive towards him as well. None of it feels one sided.
- Jealousy!! Of the best kind. "It's toxic but it's hot." Yeah girl.
What I didn't like:
- There's a bit of second hand embarrassment involved watching Ariana try to talk to guys, specifically Wes. Cringy and hard to get through, but unfortunately necessary for her character arc.
- The ending felt too fast for me. I wanted to see their relationship blossom more, but instead To me, it was unnecessary and that's why I bumped my rating down.
Thank you to the author and Mariposa Books for sharing an ARC with me in exchange for my honest review.
This book was so. good. I loved it and already want to read it again. I need to go back and catch up on the rest of the Red Mountain series. This book had chemistry and banter, and the perfect combination of fun and emotional moments. I was prepared to give this 5 stars but the ending bumped it down for me a bit.
The plot:
Book lover and coffee shop owner Ariana loves the idea of love, but she feels like no one ever notices her. As the youngest daughter in a prolific winery-owning family, she feels invisible in comparison to her older siblings. She's pretty inexperienced in the love department, and it certainly shows when she tries to flirt with a handsome customer. Just as she thinks he's trying to ask her out, her landlord and sort of friend Cole steps in with an offer: fake date him so she can learn how to speak to a man. Cole is the CEO of another winery in town, not to mention a serial f boy and one of Ariana's older brother's friends... and ten years her senior. He doesn't see commitment in his future, much to his mother's chagrin. So Ariana is going to do him a favor too: while pretending to be his girlfriend, she'll also be his date to his ex's wedding at his winery. just to keep his mom out of his hair. Plus, Cole can't seem to get Ariana off his mind, so maybe this little charade will help scratch the itch. That is, until Ariana requests spicy lessons, and both she and Cole are forced to question what's fake and what's real.
What I liked:
- The author included some really cool sections prior to starting the story. One was a character catch up section. Since this is book 4 in the Red Mountain series, this was the author's opportunity to catch readers up on the important characters in this world. This was especially useful to me as a first time reader. This can definitely be read as a standalone, but the context was super helpful. There's also a Spanish 101 section, with translations for Spanish phrases used throughout the book, and a playlist.
- Dual POV. I love knowing what both main characters are thinking.
- Some super fun tropes: fake dating, age gap, he gives her a nickname, she wears his clothes, one bed
- Banter galore! Ariana and Cole are super funny together, and it's especially fun because Ariana reserves that side of herself for Cole. "She's never snarky with anyone but me and I love it every single time."
- I really liked both Ariana and Cole as characters. They had interesting plot lines and understandable motivations. But I especially loved Cole. He's my new book boyfriend. He's an acts of service man but he also has the words to articulate his feelings, and he can read Ariana so well. He's open about being attracted to her and that in and of itself is attractive. And his mouth... the man is hot, no doubt about it. And Ariana is very lovely and supportive towards him as well. None of it feels one sided.
- Jealousy!! Of the best kind. "It's toxic but it's hot." Yeah girl.
What I didn't like:
- There's a bit of second hand embarrassment involved watching Ariana try to talk to guys, specifically Wes. Cringy and hard to get through, but unfortunately necessary for her character arc.
- The ending felt too fast for me. I wanted to see their relationship blossom more, but instead To me, it was unnecessary and that's why I bumped my rating down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Okay, listen… fake dating is my favorite trope, and this book just solidified (again) why Michelle Naomi Mosley is quickly becoming an auto read author for me. The SECOND that ARC email hit my inbox, I dropped everything (and I mean everything) to start this, and wow… she absolutely crushed it (pun fully intended).
I have been waiting for Ariana’s story, and it did not disappoint. She’s the baby of the family and she is shy, reserved, and inexperienced and pairing her with Cole was GENIUS. He’s a CEO, he’s outgoing, flirty, a little chaotic in the best way, and very experienced (hello, modern-day rake energy). Total opposites attract, but they work so well because they genuinely bring out the best in each other.
What really stood out to me was how they both had insecurities that held them back in completely different ways, but it became something they bonded over. That feeling of not being enough or not being taken seriously affected them both, and while the circumstances might have been different, they felt the same way and it added so much depth to their relationship and made everything feel real underneath all the chemistry which, by the way, was THERE from the start! That opening scene with the mic issues was so hilarious and I detected their chemistry right then and there. Their banter was so good, and I could feel how much they cared about each other even early on.
The practice/lesson aspect was perfectly done. Cole being a filthy gentleman was precisely what Ariana (and I) needed.
Also, THE TWIN THING. I knew it. Called it. Loved it!
The first date was AMAZING. I won’t go into detail for spoiler purposes, but if a man planned that for me, I would simply pass away. Cole Benton, you wonderful, generous man who doesn’t think he deserves love but absolutely does! I see you and your thoughtfulness and consideration.
I also really appreciated the curvy girl rep. Ariana has her insecurities, but Cole is so unapologetically into her and makes it VERY clear that her body is never an issue! He is down bad, and I loved that for her.
Another thing I love is that the rivalry… isn’t really a rivalry. At least, not really. Even though Cole runs the competing winery, there’s no unnecessary drama or hatred between him and the Ledger family. It’s actually refreshing to see them be friendly and supportive instead of enemies.
I also loved getting to see all the familiar characters again from the previous books. I am VERY curious about Shane, and now I am absolutely side-eyeing Blake because I have my suspicions! If he does get a book... PLEASE! Also, Layla?! I want her book so bad, but I have NO idea who or what it could be. Also, can Nora get a book?! I am very interested in the direction of her story. 👀
The ending was exactly what I wanted and it was so satisfying, so fitting for them. I am looking forward to the epilogue when it is published! Honestly, I never expected this to be anything less than five stars because it’s MNM, and she always writes something GOOD, but she really outdid herself here.
I LOVED this! I will absolutely be yelling about this book in all my groups just like I did the others (I made a Facebook post for Rare Blend and Double Barrel because I was obsessed even then), and I am already counting down the days for the next ones.
Thank you to Michelle Naomi Mosley for the eARC of this book.
I have been waiting for Ariana’s story, and it did not disappoint. She’s the baby of the family and she is shy, reserved, and inexperienced and pairing her with Cole was GENIUS. He’s a CEO, he’s outgoing, flirty, a little chaotic in the best way, and very experienced (hello, modern-day rake energy). Total opposites attract, but they work so well because they genuinely bring out the best in each other.
What really stood out to me was how they both had insecurities that held them back in completely different ways, but it became something they bonded over. That feeling of not being enough or not being taken seriously affected them both, and while the circumstances might have been different, they felt the same way and it added so much depth to their relationship and made everything feel real underneath all the chemistry which, by the way, was THERE from the start! That opening scene with the mic issues was so hilarious and I detected their chemistry right then and there. Their banter was so good, and I could feel how much they cared about each other even early on.
The practice/lesson aspect was perfectly done. Cole being a filthy gentleman was precisely what Ariana (and I) needed.
Also, THE TWIN THING. I knew it. Called it. Loved it!
The first date was AMAZING. I won’t go into detail for spoiler purposes, but if a man planned that for me, I would simply pass away. Cole Benton, you wonderful, generous man who doesn’t think he deserves love but absolutely does! I see you and your thoughtfulness and consideration.
I also really appreciated the curvy girl rep. Ariana has her insecurities, but Cole is so unapologetically into her and makes it VERY clear that her body is never an issue! He is down bad, and I loved that for her.
Another thing I love is that the rivalry… isn’t really a rivalry. At least, not really. Even though Cole runs the competing winery, there’s no unnecessary drama or hatred between him and the Ledger family. It’s actually refreshing to see them be friendly and supportive instead of enemies.
I also loved getting to see all the familiar characters again from the previous books. I am VERY curious about Shane, and now I am absolutely side-eyeing Blake because I have my suspicions! If he does get a book... PLEASE! Also, Layla?! I want her book so bad, but I have NO idea who or what it could be. Also, can Nora get a book?! I am very interested in the direction of her story. 👀
The ending was exactly what I wanted and it was so satisfying, so fitting for them. I am looking forward to the epilogue when it is published! Honestly, I never expected this to be anything less than five stars because it’s MNM, and she always writes something GOOD, but she really outdid herself here.
I LOVED this! I will absolutely be yelling about this book in all my groups just like I did the others (I made a Facebook post for Rare Blend and Double Barrel because I was obsessed even then), and I am already counting down the days for the next ones.
Thank you to Michelle Naomi Mosley for the eARC of this book.
Review of advance copy
Michelle Naomi Mosley poured fake dating, winery drama, small town charm, and “he falls first while pretending he absolutely will not” into a wine glass and handed me a full-bodied emotional disaster with tasting notes of yearning, tension, and me screaming into a pillow at midnight 🍷☕📚
Blush Crush felt like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket while simultaneously being attacked by chemistry so intense it could probably power the entire town of Red Mountain.
Ariana absolutely owned my heart from page one. This woman is shy, romance-book obsessed, awkward in the most lovable way, and so deeply convinced she’s going to ruin every romantic opportunity before it even begins that I wanted to climb into the book and shake her gently by the shoulders while yelling “BABE HE IS ALREADY OBSESSED WITH YOU.” Watching her slowly come out of her shell throughout the story was honestly beautiful because it never felt like she changed who she was. She just started realizing she was worthy of being loved exactly as she is.
AND COLE. LORD HELP ME WITH THIS MAN.
This emotionally constipated winery CEO walked into town acting all casual and controlled while internally spiraling every time Ariana smiled at him. The man was fighting for his LIFE trying not to catch feelings and meanwhile the feelings were already setting up permanent residence, planting flowers, and filing taxes.
The fake dating setup here was absolute perfection because the reasons behind it actually made sense instead of feeling stitched together with duct tape and vibes. And every fake little touch, every staged date, every “we have to look convincing” moment had me kicking my feet like a caffeinated gremlin.
But the thing that really made this book hit was how soft it was underneath all the tension. Cole never treated Ariana like she was “too inexperienced” or childish. He was patient and attentive and so gone for her it was honestly embarrassing for him. Meanwhile Ariana saw through all his emotionally unavailable nonsense almost immediately and kept challenging him in ways he clearly wasn’t prepared for.
Also the winery rivalry subplot??? DELICIOUS. Tiny little undercurrents of tension everywhere. Family expectations. Competition. History. It added this extra richness to the romance that kept everything feeling layered instead of just fluffy fake dating fun.
And can we discuss the VIBES for a second because this book smelled like espresso, old books, expensive red wine, cinnamon pastries, and bad decisions made during prolonged eye contact.
The spice crept in slowly but once it arrived?? GOODBYE. The tension had been simmering for so long by that point I thought my Kindle might burst into flames. Every scene between them felt charged with this mix of tenderness and desperation that made it impossible to stop reading.
Blush Crush was sweet, sexy, comforting, emotional, and dangerously addictive. It’s the kind of romance that sneaks up on you softly and then suddenly you’re emotionally invested in two idiots fake dating their way directly into a real happily ever after. Michelle Naomi Mosley absolutely crushed this one and I am still emotionally wandering around Red Mountain with a coffee in one hand and a wine glass in the other.
Blush Crush felt like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket while simultaneously being attacked by chemistry so intense it could probably power the entire town of Red Mountain.
Ariana absolutely owned my heart from page one. This woman is shy, romance-book obsessed, awkward in the most lovable way, and so deeply convinced she’s going to ruin every romantic opportunity before it even begins that I wanted to climb into the book and shake her gently by the shoulders while yelling “BABE HE IS ALREADY OBSESSED WITH YOU.” Watching her slowly come out of her shell throughout the story was honestly beautiful because it never felt like she changed who she was. She just started realizing she was worthy of being loved exactly as she is.
AND COLE. LORD HELP ME WITH THIS MAN.
This emotionally constipated winery CEO walked into town acting all casual and controlled while internally spiraling every time Ariana smiled at him. The man was fighting for his LIFE trying not to catch feelings and meanwhile the feelings were already setting up permanent residence, planting flowers, and filing taxes.
The fake dating setup here was absolute perfection because the reasons behind it actually made sense instead of feeling stitched together with duct tape and vibes. And every fake little touch, every staged date, every “we have to look convincing” moment had me kicking my feet like a caffeinated gremlin.
But the thing that really made this book hit was how soft it was underneath all the tension. Cole never treated Ariana like she was “too inexperienced” or childish. He was patient and attentive and so gone for her it was honestly embarrassing for him. Meanwhile Ariana saw through all his emotionally unavailable nonsense almost immediately and kept challenging him in ways he clearly wasn’t prepared for.
Also the winery rivalry subplot??? DELICIOUS. Tiny little undercurrents of tension everywhere. Family expectations. Competition. History. It added this extra richness to the romance that kept everything feeling layered instead of just fluffy fake dating fun.
And can we discuss the VIBES for a second because this book smelled like espresso, old books, expensive red wine, cinnamon pastries, and bad decisions made during prolonged eye contact.
The spice crept in slowly but once it arrived?? GOODBYE. The tension had been simmering for so long by that point I thought my Kindle might burst into flames. Every scene between them felt charged with this mix of tenderness and desperation that made it impossible to stop reading.
Blush Crush was sweet, sexy, comforting, emotional, and dangerously addictive. It’s the kind of romance that sneaks up on you softly and then suddenly you’re emotionally invested in two idiots fake dating their way directly into a real happily ever after. Michelle Naomi Mosley absolutely crushed this one and I am still emotionally wandering around Red Mountain with a coffee in one hand and a wine glass in the other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Blush Crush by Michelle Naomi Mosley is book four in the Red Mountain series, and just like the previous installments, this one was such a good read.
This story follows Ariana and Cole, two members of rival winery families who really aren’t rivals anymore. They’ve spent most of their lives in each other’s orbit, but things shift when Cole finds himself needing a date to a wedding to get his mom off his back. Ariana, meanwhile, is looking to gain a little relationship experience and confidence of her own. What starts as a mutually beneficial fake dating arrangement quickly turns into something that feels anything but fake.
I really enjoyed this story from start to finish. Both characters felt well developed and easy to root for. Cole is the cocky playboy CEO of his family’s winery who swears he doesn’t want anything serious, while Ariana is sweet, shy, and inexperienced, running her own coffee shop. On paper, they seem like complete opposites, but together they just worked.
I loved the progression of their relationship. It starts with some bickering and reluctant cooperation, slowly shifts into friendship, and eventually turns into something much deeper. Mosley did a great job developing these two over time and letting the layers of their relationship build naturally. You get all the fun fake dating moments, the blurred lines between what’s for show and what’s real, but there’s also a lot of emotional depth underneath it all.
One of my favorite parts of the book was how obvious it was that Cole was all in long before he wanted to admit it. Even while pretending this arrangement was purely beneficial, it was clear he was crushing hard on Ariana. I loved the way he took his time with her, cared for her, and helped build her confidence. Ariana was also such a lovable character. Yes, she’s shy and a little naive at times, but she balanced Cole’s personality perfectly, and together they were genuinely adorable.
The spice was also really well done. There’s plenty of dirty talk and descriptive scenes, but it never felt excessive or thrown in just for the sake of it. The intimate moments actually helped push the relationship development forward and highlighted Ariana’s growing confidence both emotionally and sexually.
I also didn’t mind the third-act pregnancy storyline at all. I actually thought it worked really well for Cole’s character arc, showing his growth from a reluctant playboy who didn’t think he deserved more into someone who truly understood what mattered to him and what he wanted out of life.
Overall, I absolutely loved this one. If you enjoy fake dating, opposites attract dynamics, protective heroes who fall first, and a good balance of spice and emotional development, I’d definitely recommend picking this up.
🌟 thank you to Michelle Naomi Mosley for this ARC and the opportunity to read and review
Blush Crush by Michelle Naomi Mosley is book four in the Red Mountain series, and just like the previous installments, this one was such a good read.
This story follows Ariana and Cole, two members of rival winery families who really aren’t rivals anymore. They’ve spent most of their lives in each other’s orbit, but things shift when Cole finds himself needing a date to a wedding to get his mom off his back. Ariana, meanwhile, is looking to gain a little relationship experience and confidence of her own. What starts as a mutually beneficial fake dating arrangement quickly turns into something that feels anything but fake.
I really enjoyed this story from start to finish. Both characters felt well developed and easy to root for. Cole is the cocky playboy CEO of his family’s winery who swears he doesn’t want anything serious, while Ariana is sweet, shy, and inexperienced, running her own coffee shop. On paper, they seem like complete opposites, but together they just worked.
I loved the progression of their relationship. It starts with some bickering and reluctant cooperation, slowly shifts into friendship, and eventually turns into something much deeper. Mosley did a great job developing these two over time and letting the layers of their relationship build naturally. You get all the fun fake dating moments, the blurred lines between what’s for show and what’s real, but there’s also a lot of emotional depth underneath it all.
One of my favorite parts of the book was how obvious it was that Cole was all in long before he wanted to admit it. Even while pretending this arrangement was purely beneficial, it was clear he was crushing hard on Ariana. I loved the way he took his time with her, cared for her, and helped build her confidence. Ariana was also such a lovable character. Yes, she’s shy and a little naive at times, but she balanced Cole’s personality perfectly, and together they were genuinely adorable.
The spice was also really well done. There’s plenty of dirty talk and descriptive scenes, but it never felt excessive or thrown in just for the sake of it. The intimate moments actually helped push the relationship development forward and highlighted Ariana’s growing confidence both emotionally and sexually.
I also didn’t mind the third-act pregnancy storyline at all. I actually thought it worked really well for Cole’s character arc, showing his growth from a reluctant playboy who didn’t think he deserved more into someone who truly understood what mattered to him and what he wanted out of life.
Overall, I absolutely loved this one. If you enjoy fake dating, opposites attract dynamics, protective heroes who fall first, and a good balance of spice and emotional development, I’d definitely recommend picking this up.
🌟 thank you to Michelle Naomi Mosley for this ARC and the opportunity to read and review
May 21, 2026
ARC review for Blush Crush (4 ⭐ & 4 🌶️)
OMGosh, absolute perfection from Michelle. This is part of an interconnected, but standalone, series following the Ledger family and their escapades into love. In Ariana and Cole's journey, we follow a heroine struggling with self-confidence and a possessive MMC whose past trauma has shaped the way he approaches relationships.
Ariana is a super cozy coffee shop owner who has trouble believing in herself. Despite being a historical romance novel girlie (I mean who wouldn't want to be!?), her experience in the romance department is severely lacking. So when she starts to have a crush on a repeat customer, the next obvious step is to get herself into a fake relationship with her least favorite customer to use him as practice for a real relationship. Yeah, that'll totally work!! What I loved about Ariana is that even though she still struggles with self-confidence throughout the story, the things she does to "change" that in herself are not dramatic. She doesn't all of a sudden become some completely different person and start acting unlike herself; rather, she puts on light makeup to enhance what she already has going and chooses clothing that fits her more appropriately rather than hiding herself away. I feel like this choice from the author is really great because it goes to show we don't need to change who we are to like ourselves more, but rather need to embrace our current selves and try to be our own best versions.
Oh, Cole... silly silly mister Cole. Cole is your typical f-boy largely due to a tragedy from his childhood that made him swear off relationships and any form of a happily ever after for himself. But despite labeling Ariana as completely off limits, it becomes obvious pretty quickly that he is undeniably into her, and watching him slowly realize he may not be nearly as okay with the idea of her ending up with someone else was incredibly entertaining. And once fake dating enters the picture? Sir never stood a chance. What I really appreciated about Cole was that even as his feelings evolved and he experienced emotional growth, he never tried to be someone he wasn’t. He didn’t over-promise or under-deliver, and I loved that his actions always backed up the things he said.
My only qualm about this book, if you can even call it one, is that there's not really a big conflict / third-act-breakup or anything similar. And while you might be thinking to yourself, well isn't that a good thing, the only reason that it bothered me was because it made me feel like the characters kind of fell into a happily ever after instead of working for it. Don't get me wrong, I still loved their ending and felt like everything buttoned up pretty well, I just wish it felt more earned rather than like it was a given.
All of that being said, this was such a fun and satisfying romance that immediately made me want more from this world and these characters. Getting to follow Ariana and Cole's journey was such a good time, so excuse me while I go binge the rest of this series.
OMGosh, absolute perfection from Michelle. This is part of an interconnected, but standalone, series following the Ledger family and their escapades into love. In Ariana and Cole's journey, we follow a heroine struggling with self-confidence and a possessive MMC whose past trauma has shaped the way he approaches relationships.
Ariana is a super cozy coffee shop owner who has trouble believing in herself. Despite being a historical romance novel girlie (I mean who wouldn't want to be!?), her experience in the romance department is severely lacking. So when she starts to have a crush on a repeat customer, the next obvious step is to get herself into a fake relationship with her least favorite customer to use him as practice for a real relationship. Yeah, that'll totally work!! What I loved about Ariana is that even though she still struggles with self-confidence throughout the story, the things she does to "change" that in herself are not dramatic. She doesn't all of a sudden become some completely different person and start acting unlike herself; rather, she puts on light makeup to enhance what she already has going and chooses clothing that fits her more appropriately rather than hiding herself away. I feel like this choice from the author is really great because it goes to show we don't need to change who we are to like ourselves more, but rather need to embrace our current selves and try to be our own best versions.
Oh, Cole... silly silly mister Cole. Cole is your typical f-boy largely due to a tragedy from his childhood that made him swear off relationships and any form of a happily ever after for himself. But despite labeling Ariana as completely off limits, it becomes obvious pretty quickly that he is undeniably into her, and watching him slowly realize he may not be nearly as okay with the idea of her ending up with someone else was incredibly entertaining. And once fake dating enters the picture? Sir never stood a chance. What I really appreciated about Cole was that even as his feelings evolved and he experienced emotional growth, he never tried to be someone he wasn’t. He didn’t over-promise or under-deliver, and I loved that his actions always backed up the things he said.
My only qualm about this book, if you can even call it one, is that there's not really a big conflict / third-act-breakup or anything similar. And while you might be thinking to yourself, well isn't that a good thing, the only reason that it bothered me was because it made me feel like the characters kind of fell into a happily ever after instead of working for it. Don't get me wrong, I still loved their ending and felt like everything buttoned up pretty well, I just wish it felt more earned rather than like it was a given.
All of that being said, this was such a fun and satisfying romance that immediately made me want more from this world and these characters. Getting to follow Ariana and Cole's journey was such a good time, so excuse me while I go binge the rest of this series.
May 16, 2026
ARC review
⭐5/5
🌶️3.5/5
📌Check TW
This was easily the sweetest and spiciest book in the series, and I have absolutely zero complaints about it.
Ariana was such a relatable character for me. That feeling of not being enough, constantly comparing yourself to others, believing you’re somehow less desirable, it all hit a little too close to home. So, when Cole Benton, a man who has known her forever, starts openly craving her while also realizing there had always been something between them, yeah, I never stood a chance. The man literally went to her coffee shop every single day even though he didn’t even like coffee. I was completely gone for these two.
Cole had emotional walls built ten feet high, but once you understand why, it completely wrecks you. Sure, he walked in with a reputation, but there was so much more to him underneath all of that. What I loved most was that he chose Ariana as the person he could finally be vulnerable with. That’s what really got me. They were both carrying around this belief that they were somehow lacking, somehow temporary, somehow not enough. But together, they created a space where they were fully seen and fully loved.
I adored Ariana. She might have been innocent, but she was also a total smartass, and I loved that balance in her personality. She saw Cole as a friend first, then her fake boyfriend, and eventually the real thing. Around him, she let herself be playful and confident in a way she never had before. I loved watching her grow into someone who felt secure in her own body and finally accepted that she was worthy of love exactly as she was.
And the spice? YUMMY. There was a lot of it, but it fit the story perfectly because Cole was giving her “sexy lessons,” so the buildup was delicious. The tension stretched for so long that when they finally gave in to each other, it was insanely hot. And Cole being an absolute giver who worshipped his partner? Say less.
There is an accidental pregnancy trope, but it happens toward the end and is not a huge focus of the plot, so don’t let that stop you from picking this one up.
At its core, this story was not just about fake dating, tension, or romance. It was about two people learning to unlearn all the quiet lies they had convinced themselves were true. The parts of themselves they viewed as flaws ended up being the exact things the other person cherished most. It was about being chosen intentionally until they finally started believing they were worthy of that love too.
I absolutely recommend this one!
Thank you so much to Michelle for this amazing eARC!
⭐5/5
🌶️3.5/5
📌Check TW
This was easily the sweetest and spiciest book in the series, and I have absolutely zero complaints about it.
Ariana was such a relatable character for me. That feeling of not being enough, constantly comparing yourself to others, believing you’re somehow less desirable, it all hit a little too close to home. So, when Cole Benton, a man who has known her forever, starts openly craving her while also realizing there had always been something between them, yeah, I never stood a chance. The man literally went to her coffee shop every single day even though he didn’t even like coffee. I was completely gone for these two.
Cole had emotional walls built ten feet high, but once you understand why, it completely wrecks you. Sure, he walked in with a reputation, but there was so much more to him underneath all of that. What I loved most was that he chose Ariana as the person he could finally be vulnerable with. That’s what really got me. They were both carrying around this belief that they were somehow lacking, somehow temporary, somehow not enough. But together, they created a space where they were fully seen and fully loved.
I adored Ariana. She might have been innocent, but she was also a total smartass, and I loved that balance in her personality. She saw Cole as a friend first, then her fake boyfriend, and eventually the real thing. Around him, she let herself be playful and confident in a way she never had before. I loved watching her grow into someone who felt secure in her own body and finally accepted that she was worthy of love exactly as she was.
And the spice? YUMMY. There was a lot of it, but it fit the story perfectly because Cole was giving her “sexy lessons,” so the buildup was delicious. The tension stretched for so long that when they finally gave in to each other, it was insanely hot. And Cole being an absolute giver who worshipped his partner? Say less.
There is an accidental pregnancy trope, but it happens toward the end and is not a huge focus of the plot, so don’t let that stop you from picking this one up.
At its core, this story was not just about fake dating, tension, or romance. It was about two people learning to unlearn all the quiet lies they had convinced themselves were true. The parts of themselves they viewed as flaws ended up being the exact things the other person cherished most. It was about being chosen intentionally until they finally started believing they were worthy of that love too.
I absolutely recommend this one!
Thank you so much to Michelle for this amazing eARC!
May 19, 2026
Blush Crush by Michelle Naomi Mosley
The forth book in the Red Mountain series is now available!
🥐 Fake dating
🥐 Spicy lessons
🥐 Reformer playboy
🥐 Age gap
🥐 He falls first
🥐 Small town
What better story than that of a shy café owner and the playboy CEO of your family’s rival winery? Well, this book follows the story of Ariana Ledger and Cole Benton. He needs a date, and she needs practice, what seems like an easy arrangement to be fake boyfriend and girlfriend could turn into something much more complicated.
Ariana Ledger is a romantic who would rather lose herself in romance novels than face the reality of her nonexistent love life, until a man catches her attention enough to make her realize she has no real experience and could ruin everything.
Cole Benton learned long ago that nothing good lasts forever; he prefers to keep his relationships casual and uncomplicated. But when his ex shows up engaged and is getting married at his winery, he needs a date for the wedding and fast.
And then Ariana shows up, and Cole finds himself caught up in an unconventional arrangement. Pretending to be in a relationship is the perfect plan, but spending so much time together getting to know each other is going to complicate everything.
After reading Bottle Shock, I couldn’t wait to read the next story and I loved it. A shy girl and a reformed playboy who goes to her café every day? YES.
What surprised me the most was understanding Cole’s true backstory (I even cried). I didn’t expect him to have those kinds of thoughts about never being good enough, and on top of that, that he just wants to be better for Ari. As for Ari, she’s inexperienced and insecure, but she’s perfect just the way she is; no one should pressure her into doing what she doesn’t want to do, everyone has their own timing. I truly believe these two have a great connection, and I felt it on every single page.
And Layla is definitely right: a man doesn’t act the way Cole does unless he’s in love.
Now I can’t wait for Shane’s book, I’m so excited!
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review, thanks for the gifted copy! 🫶
https://www.instagram.com/p/DYiLetvjE...
The forth book in the Red Mountain series is now available!
🥐 Fake dating
🥐 Spicy lessons
🥐 Reformer playboy
🥐 Age gap
🥐 He falls first
🥐 Small town
What better story than that of a shy café owner and the playboy CEO of your family’s rival winery? Well, this book follows the story of Ariana Ledger and Cole Benton. He needs a date, and she needs practice, what seems like an easy arrangement to be fake boyfriend and girlfriend could turn into something much more complicated.
Ariana Ledger is a romantic who would rather lose herself in romance novels than face the reality of her nonexistent love life, until a man catches her attention enough to make her realize she has no real experience and could ruin everything.
Cole Benton learned long ago that nothing good lasts forever; he prefers to keep his relationships casual and uncomplicated. But when his ex shows up engaged and is getting married at his winery, he needs a date for the wedding and fast.
And then Ariana shows up, and Cole finds himself caught up in an unconventional arrangement. Pretending to be in a relationship is the perfect plan, but spending so much time together getting to know each other is going to complicate everything.
After reading Bottle Shock, I couldn’t wait to read the next story and I loved it. A shy girl and a reformed playboy who goes to her café every day? YES.
What surprised me the most was understanding Cole’s true backstory (I even cried). I didn’t expect him to have those kinds of thoughts about never being good enough, and on top of that, that he just wants to be better for Ari. As for Ari, she’s inexperienced and insecure, but she’s perfect just the way she is; no one should pressure her into doing what she doesn’t want to do, everyone has their own timing. I truly believe these two have a great connection, and I felt it on every single page.
And Layla is definitely right: a man doesn’t act the way Cole does unless he’s in love.
Now I can’t wait for Shane’s book, I’m so excited!
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review, thanks for the gifted copy! 🫶
https://www.instagram.com/p/DYiLetvjE...
May 15, 2026
oh. my. goodness.
wow, first of all i am so thankful to have gotten this as an ARC. i am now going to dive into the series before this and soak in all of miss michelle’s AMAZING writing. i am at a loss for words on how good this book was.
cole and ariana as characters… way to HIT the audience with their similarities! i was not expecting that at all. and then…. the LAST TWO OR THREE CHAPTERS???? full circle. i love the fake dating trope. and i love how quick it was obvious that this would be farrrr more than fake. i think i love the idea in the back of my head constantly that the families are “rivals.” i think that is something that lingers, especially during the interactions with cole and ariana’s family. throwing the little thing where the dads got along at the golf tournament, that one of her brother’s is one of cole’s closest friends. their dynamic from the beginning… the fact he went from her building manager to fake boyfriend REAL quick just…. it’s so good. so amazing.
now.. the instance of the wedding.. of course, there has to be drama with the ex. but the way the wedding went, how everyone could tell ariana CHANGED cole for the better? it was amazing. i was afraid at one point that the wedding was forgotten cause i could not tell the timeline. i know we had christmas, then cole’s birthday in february - but then there was not an indication of the month. which, i ended up liking, because it creeped up quick. it threw them back to where and why things started.
the ending.. i was not expecting this. i just assumed she was not feeling it because of cole being gone. it was the first time they were really apart once things became real. and BAM. also, love her sister for the way she reacted when she noticed. it was subtle.
fricking wes… i forgot about him until he was mentioned. it was like i was ariana, forgetting him because he just became irrelevant to her life. there was a reason he was there at the beginning, but then that faded. like his character (IN A GOOD WAY! cole is obviously better. like. by far.
thank you AGAIN for the chance to read this ARC. i am absolutely thrilled to get the extra bits once the book is fully released!
wow, first of all i am so thankful to have gotten this as an ARC. i am now going to dive into the series before this and soak in all of miss michelle’s AMAZING writing. i am at a loss for words on how good this book was.
cole and ariana as characters… way to HIT the audience with their similarities! i was not expecting that at all. and then…. the LAST TWO OR THREE CHAPTERS???? full circle. i love the fake dating trope. and i love how quick it was obvious that this would be farrrr more than fake. i think i love the idea in the back of my head constantly that the families are “rivals.” i think that is something that lingers, especially during the interactions with cole and ariana’s family. throwing the little thing where the dads got along at the golf tournament, that one of her brother’s is one of cole’s closest friends. their dynamic from the beginning… the fact he went from her building manager to fake boyfriend REAL quick just…. it’s so good. so amazing.
now.. the instance of the wedding.. of course, there has to be drama with the ex. but the way the wedding went, how everyone could tell ariana CHANGED cole for the better? it was amazing. i was afraid at one point that the wedding was forgotten cause i could not tell the timeline. i know we had christmas, then cole’s birthday in february - but then there was not an indication of the month. which, i ended up liking, because it creeped up quick. it threw them back to where and why things started.
the ending.. i was not expecting this. i just assumed she was not feeling it because of cole being gone. it was the first time they were really apart once things became real. and BAM. also, love her sister for the way she reacted when she noticed. it was subtle.
fricking wes… i forgot about him until he was mentioned. it was like i was ariana, forgetting him because he just became irrelevant to her life. there was a reason he was there at the beginning, but then that faded. like his character (IN A GOOD WAY! cole is obviously better. like. by far.
thank you AGAIN for the chance to read this ARC. i am absolutely thrilled to get the extra bits once the book is fully released!
May 18, 2026
5 ⭐️
|ARC|
⋆ dual pov
⋆ small town
⋆ fake dating
⋆ he falls first
⋆ rival families
⋆ spicy lessons
⋆ surprise pregnancy
___________
I am so in love! Blush Crush is a small town, fake dating romance where we follow our FMC Ariana as she runs her cafe while trying to fight the growing crush on the CEO of her families rival and our MMC Cole as he runs his families winery while trying to get a certain brunette out of his head. We watch through their eyes as they strike up a deal that starts to blur the fine line between real and fake. We watch as these two come together and as the undeniable connection becomes too loud to ignore.
Oh I am absolutely in love with these two!! Both Ariana and Cole such fun and amazing characters! I loved watching these two come together and grow! Ariana was such a fun character to get to know and it was so easy to connect to! Love her so much! And Cole ugh!! I loved learning all the little things that he did just to see Ariana actually crying! I also just loved seeing how much he wore his heart on his sleeve! These two together were everything and I’m so so so happy we got to see them together! Obsessed!
Michelle does it again!!!! Omg! Ever since I’ve picked up this series I have been obsessed and the writing just keeps getting better and better! The writing for this book was so good, I felt so connected with the characters and honestly the entire town. The way Michelle writes small town romance is so perfect. Every detail of this book and all of Michelle’s books are treated with such care and so much love you can just tell and it’s so rewarding to read!! I’m absolutely so excited to read the next book in this series!!
Overall, I had the most amazing time with this book! Thank you so much Michelle Naomi Mosley for such an amazing ARC! Super excited to read the next book!! 🩷🥐📖
|ARC|
⋆ dual pov
⋆ small town
⋆ fake dating
⋆ he falls first
⋆ rival families
⋆ spicy lessons
⋆ surprise pregnancy
___________
I am so in love! Blush Crush is a small town, fake dating romance where we follow our FMC Ariana as she runs her cafe while trying to fight the growing crush on the CEO of her families rival and our MMC Cole as he runs his families winery while trying to get a certain brunette out of his head. We watch through their eyes as they strike up a deal that starts to blur the fine line between real and fake. We watch as these two come together and as the undeniable connection becomes too loud to ignore.
Oh I am absolutely in love with these two!! Both Ariana and Cole such fun and amazing characters! I loved watching these two come together and grow! Ariana was such a fun character to get to know and it was so easy to connect to! Love her so much! And Cole ugh!! I loved learning all the little things that he did just to see Ariana actually crying! I also just loved seeing how much he wore his heart on his sleeve! These two together were everything and I’m so so so happy we got to see them together! Obsessed!
Michelle does it again!!!! Omg! Ever since I’ve picked up this series I have been obsessed and the writing just keeps getting better and better! The writing for this book was so good, I felt so connected with the characters and honestly the entire town. The way Michelle writes small town romance is so perfect. Every detail of this book and all of Michelle’s books are treated with such care and so much love you can just tell and it’s so rewarding to read!! I’m absolutely so excited to read the next book in this series!!
Overall, I had the most amazing time with this book! Thank you so much Michelle Naomi Mosley for such an amazing ARC! Super excited to read the next book!! 🩷🥐📖
Review of advance copy received from Author
What to Expect:
Small Town
Age Gap
Fake Dating
Spicy Lessons
He Falls First
Opposites Attract
We are heading back to Red Mountain! When Michelle revealed that Ariana and Cole were getting a story I was here for it. Cole and Ariana could not be more different and that is what I loved about their pairing. Add in some fake dating, a one bed situation and Cole being his charming self and I can see how Ariana fell for him, because I did too.
Ariana might be a hopeless romantic, but deep down she is also shielding herself from life because of her insecurities and lack of confidence. Her struggles felt real and raw and I loved seeing her find her confidence throughout the book. I also love how Cole gave her a little push, but really let Ariana come into her own and discover for herself how strong she truly was.
And Cole, this man had me cackling so much. (Chapter 19....) This man might have been confident and charming but he too was carrying the weight of the world in more ways than one. I loved seeing him open up to Ariana and show his vulnerable side. Even in the beginning when he is yearning for Ariana and trying to get rid of his feelings, he ends up falling more and more for her.
There is a twist in the third act that I could not get enough of. I loved how supportive Cole was and how he stepped up and showed Ariana he was there for her no matter what. This book is every bit my cup of tea and I loved it.
Throughout this story, the two families also shined as secondary characters. I could not get enough of the banter and the love they had for each other. I am really excited to see where the other siblings stories will go! Thank you so much to Michelle and her team for the early copy of Blush Crush!
Small Town
Age Gap
Fake Dating
Spicy Lessons
He Falls First
Opposites Attract
We are heading back to Red Mountain! When Michelle revealed that Ariana and Cole were getting a story I was here for it. Cole and Ariana could not be more different and that is what I loved about their pairing. Add in some fake dating, a one bed situation and Cole being his charming self and I can see how Ariana fell for him, because I did too.
Ariana might be a hopeless romantic, but deep down she is also shielding herself from life because of her insecurities and lack of confidence. Her struggles felt real and raw and I loved seeing her find her confidence throughout the book. I also love how Cole gave her a little push, but really let Ariana come into her own and discover for herself how strong she truly was.
And Cole, this man had me cackling so much. (Chapter 19....) This man might have been confident and charming but he too was carrying the weight of the world in more ways than one. I loved seeing him open up to Ariana and show his vulnerable side. Even in the beginning when he is yearning for Ariana and trying to get rid of his feelings, he ends up falling more and more for her.
There is a twist in the third act that I could not get enough of. I loved how supportive Cole was and how he stepped up and showed Ariana he was there for her no matter what. This book is every bit my cup of tea and I loved it.
Throughout this story, the two families also shined as secondary characters. I could not get enough of the banter and the love they had for each other. I am really excited to see where the other siblings stories will go! Thank you so much to Michelle and her team for the early copy of Blush Crush!
May 19, 2026
Applause for the series that continues to capture my heart, Blush Crush is the latest installment of the Red Mountain series that follows the Ledger siblings on the path to their HEAs. All books can be read as on their own, but I highly encourage reading all of the books in the order they’ve been released to get the full Ledger sibling experience.
Ariana is no doubt the tamest and most timid of the Ledger bunch but is just as ambitious with her endeavors as her siblings, being a full blown business owner in her early 20s! She’s sweet yet spicy toward the landlord of her building, Cole Benton who also happens to be her older brother’s friend, the CEO of the rival winery and resident playboy of Red Mountain. She is inexperienced with dating and intimacy and he obviously, is not. They strike a deal where Cole agrees to give Ariana lessons in intimacy and sex so long as she accompanies him to a wedding to appease his mother.
But fake dating in romance is never simple and the feelings soon run deeper than either could have imagined. Cole was just so attentive toward Ariana and treated her with so much care and respect. It was beautiful to not only see their relationship blossom into something so real but to see Ariana come into her own and become much more confident as well!
It’s no wonder these two fall deeply for each other. They share so much playful banter before, during and after their deal and this understanding of each other’s needs and wants that provided comfort and safety in the relationship. This was such a sweet story and I love the shared experience they had that just cemented their bond with one another (don’t want to spoil it cause it was a good one!)
We have two Ledger siblings left and I just don’t want this series to ever end!
*This does contain a trope that isn’t always popular with romance readers but it highlights the importance of women’s rights and I thank the author for acknowledging such an important topic*
Ariana is no doubt the tamest and most timid of the Ledger bunch but is just as ambitious with her endeavors as her siblings, being a full blown business owner in her early 20s! She’s sweet yet spicy toward the landlord of her building, Cole Benton who also happens to be her older brother’s friend, the CEO of the rival winery and resident playboy of Red Mountain. She is inexperienced with dating and intimacy and he obviously, is not. They strike a deal where Cole agrees to give Ariana lessons in intimacy and sex so long as she accompanies him to a wedding to appease his mother.
But fake dating in romance is never simple and the feelings soon run deeper than either could have imagined. Cole was just so attentive toward Ariana and treated her with so much care and respect. It was beautiful to not only see their relationship blossom into something so real but to see Ariana come into her own and become much more confident as well!
It’s no wonder these two fall deeply for each other. They share so much playful banter before, during and after their deal and this understanding of each other’s needs and wants that provided comfort and safety in the relationship. This was such a sweet story and I love the shared experience they had that just cemented their bond with one another (don’t want to spoil it cause it was a good one!)
We have two Ledger siblings left and I just don’t want this series to ever end!
*This does contain a trope that isn’t always popular with romance readers but it highlights the importance of women’s rights and I thank the author for acknowledging such an important topic*
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