Crushing on Love

The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor, MD #4

by Melissa Foster

CRUSHING ON LOVE is a USA TODAY BESTSELLER

The Bradens are a series of stand-alone romances that may also be enjoyed as part of the larger Love in Bloom series.
.
In CRUSHING ON LOVE...
Steve Johnson is living his life's passion watching over the Colorado Mountains as a ranger and wildlife consultant. But his peaceful life is upended when overzealous and insanely beautiful Shannon Braden flits back into his life after returning from a brief trip home to Maryland. He thought his attraction to her was under control--after all, she's only in Colorado temporarily, and he doesn't do casual affairs.

Shannon's return to Colorado has as much to do with the game of cat and mouse she and Steve have been playing as it does the data she's been hired to collect. But despite her efforts to explore the undeniable heat simmering between them, Steve's intent on keeping his distance.

When a ranch abutting the national park goes up for sale, Steve will do whatever it takes to keep it from falling into the wrong hands. And when all his attempts fail, he's left with no alternative but to follow Shannon's guidance into the online world he abhors in order to raise the funds. The more time they spend together, the deeper their attraction becomes, and a game of cat and mouse turns into an unstoppable connection. But when Shannon's assignment comes to an end, will it mean an end to them, too?
***
WANT MORE BRADENS? All Braden books can be read as stand-alone novels or as part of the series:

THE BRADENS (Peaceful Harbor, MD)
Healed by Love (Nate)
Surrender My Love (Cole)
River of Love (Sam)
Crushing on Love (Shannon)
Whisper of Love (Tempest)
Thrill of Love (Ty)
***
The Bradens are part of the Love in Bloom big family romance collection. Characters from each sub-series appear in future books. Read the complete Love in Bloom series:
SNOW SISTERS
THE BRADENS (at Weston, CO)
THE REMINGTONS
THE BRADENS (at Trusty, CO)
THE BRADENS (at Peaceful Harbor)
SEASIDE SUMMERS
WILD BOYS AFTER DARK

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Friends To Lovers, Forced Proximity, Second Chance Romance, Womens Fiction

Paperback

First published September 21, 2016

About the author

NEW YORK TIMES, WALL STREET JOURNAL, and USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR

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Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than 100 novels. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, always family oriented, and feature fiercely loyal heroes, smart, sassy heroines, and complex relatable issues.

Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name, Addison Cole here: https://addisoncole.com

Melissa loves to hear from readers! Feel free to send her an email or chat with her on social media.

Melissa welcomes the opportunity to chat with book clubs and other reading groups.

"What sets Melissa Foster apart are her compelling characters who you care about... desperately...I dare you to read the first chapter and not be hooked." International bestseller, M.J. Rose

"Melissa Foster is a wonderful connector of readers and books, a friend of authors, and a tireless advocate for women. She is the real deal"--Author Jennie Shortridge

Reviews

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet and very hot book.

She was too damn cute, too damn social, and too damn temporary for the likes of him.

Shannon Braden has returned to Colorado not just because she’s been hired to collect new data but because she wants to explore the feelings between her and ranger and wildlife consultant Steve Johnson. But no matter how hard she tries to convince him to explore the heat between them, the stubborn man continues to push her away.

Steve loves his job watching over the Colorado Mountains and the peace he has found living on it. He doesn’t need insanely beautiful and talkative Shannon Braden to come back into his life, creating chaos in his life, making him want to let go of his control and make her his. Because he doesn’t do casual, and Shannon’s life is back in Peaceful Harbor.

But ignoring Shannon becomes impossible especially once she starts helping him raising funds for a nearby ranch that he will do anything to keep out of the wrong hands. Can what they see as a temporary relationship turn into something more permanent? Can Steve convince Shannon that he and his mountain is where she’s meant to be?

“Doesn’t anything ruffle your feathers?”
“Yes. A certain mouthy brunette ruffles a hell of a lot more than my feathers.”

I loved Shannon and how cheerful and optimistic she was and the fact that she made the first move because Steve was being hard-headed.

He thought he’d had his attraction to her under control, but he wasn’t even close. She was still right there under his skin. Every moment they were together was like a tug-of-war between wanting to get closer and needing to keep his distance.

Of course I loved Steve who was just like a grizzly bear, all snarly and gruff in the beginning. I loved seeing how much he changed while being with Shannon and how head over heels he was for her.

She was brighter than the sun and he was the shadows between the trees, and as he watched her moving like she’d lived there all her life, he began to wonder what he’d found so interesting about his solitary life that could have possibly been better than this.

The romance between these two were scorching! I loved their banter and I even loved how long it took Steve to finally give into his feelings for her. The sexy times were a lot steamier than what I’m used to from this author and for the most part I loved it.

This was another great small town family read from this author and like always I enjoyed the romance and the secondary characters were so interesting. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone, although the secondary characters will definitely make you want to read their books too ;-) A definite must read for all small town romance fans.

["Avonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

When it comes to contemporary romances with realistic characters, an emotional love story and smokin’ hot sex, author Melissa Foster always delivers!

CRUSHING ON LOVE is the fourth book in The Bradens of Peaceful Harbor series. All can be read as standalone books, but you won’t want to stop at one.

Book four focuses on Shannon Braden who is always optimistic, sweet and fun. She has returned to Colorado to see if the sparks between her and Steve Johnson, who she met on her first fox research trip and at her cousin’s wedding can lead to more. She wants time away from her family, even though she loves them all dearly, to decide on her future career and life without her family hovering.

Steve Johnson loves his solitude living up in the Colorado mountains and working as a ranger and wildlife consultant. That solitude has been invaded once again by the beautiful and people loving Shannon. As much as he wants her, he doesn’t do casual relationships and she plans to return home in a few weeks.

Steve wants to conserve a large ranch next to the national park, but he doesn’t have the money. Shannon has the online crowd sourcing knowledge, but he feels it is begging. They need to work together to make Steve’s dream a reality and it just might lead to what Shannon desires both personally and professionally.

At first, I really wondered how these two were going to be able to come together, but leave it to Ms. Foster to make it all work out in the end. Mountain man Steve “Grizz” and Shannon “Butterfly” have very appropriate nicknames for each other and they both ended up convincing me they are perfect for each other and deserve their HEA. Other characters make guest appearances from Ms. Foster’s other series and it is easy to follow the connections. The sex in this book is extremely hot and well incorporated into the story. It does include oral and anal sex.

Take the time to read Steve and Shannon’s story and I know you will love it as much as I did!

Written for and posted first on The Romance Reviews.com.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a delightful second chance romance where a past family feud and magnetic attraction vie for supremacy and resistance is tested to the limits. The hero is Steven Johnson, a ranger and wildlife consultant happily living in splendid isolation in his beloved Colorado Mountains. Well, he was living their happily until he started really missing Shannon Braden who had been for a quick visit to her home, interrupting her stay in the cabin next to his which was her base whilst carrying out research into wild foxed living in the area.

This is a heartwarming romance where knowing the heroine is only staying for a short time gives the couple the option of ignoring their mutual attraction or acting on it and making the most of their limited time together. In this case Steve is wary of acting on his feelings because of this and suspects only more heartbreak will ensue if they get closer. However his heart is hers and resistance is futile - especially as she's certainly not as reticent about their relationship. Seeking additional ways to help raise the requisite funding and support to prevent developers purchasing and building on a ranch which abuts the national park has the couple working closely together and, as they get to know each other better, their attraction also grows. Will they save the ranch? Will their love find a way to bring them together? You'll just have to read it yourself to find out what happens!

This is the first book in this series that I've read so I can definitely confirm that it works well as a standalone. The characters are well developed, there is plenty of angst and turmoil and the author brings the characters to life, making it easy to empathise and relate to them, their attitudes and behaviour. The plot has many twists and turns where you're not quite sure how things will go - and sometimes what happens surprises you, making it a thoroughly engaging read and one I have no hesitation in highly recommending. I'll definitely be looking out for more by this author in future, including other titles from this series!

Many thanks to the author, publisher and Xpresso Book Tours for gifting a copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've said this before, but it is worth mentioning again ... Melissa Foster writes with heart! You feel the emotion of not only the characters, but also the story when you read her prose. She grabs you, and not just intellectually, but emotionally. Every single time I am taken on a beautiful ride of romance and friendship and love in her stories. Crushing on Love was no different. The ride was incredible!

Steve Johnson and Shannon Braden had spark from the moment they met but they still played the chasing game and it was a lot of fun to read! As a reader, looking from the outside in, there were times where I was frustrated and just wanted to slap them, but they were real. They were relatable. Who hasn't played the chasing game a time or two in their lifetime? THAT'S what I enjoy so much about Melissa's books. They are every day stories that could happen to you or me set in a fictional land. I just can't get enough!

Copy provided for blog tour

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

BOOK REVIEW: Crushing on Love
BOOK SERIES: The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor #4
AUTHOR: Melissa Foster
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
PUBLICATION DATE: September 21, 2016
CLIFF HANGER: No

4 Stars

SYNOPSIS:
The Bradens are a series of stand-alone romances that may also be enjoyed as part of the larger Love in Bloom series.
.
In CRUSHING ON LOVE...
Steve Johnson is living his life's passion watching over the Colorado Mountains as a ranger and wildlife consultant. But his peaceful life is upended when overzealous and insanely beautiful Shannon Braden flits back into his life after returning from a brief trip home to Maryland. He thought his attraction to her was under control--after all, she's only in Colorado temporarily, and he doesn't do casual affairs.

Shannon's return to Colorado has as much to do with the game of cat and mouse she and Steve have been playing as it does the data she's been hired to collect. But despite her efforts to explore the undeniable heat simmering between them, Steve's intent on keeping his distance.

When a ranch abutting the national park goes up for sale, Steve will do whatever it takes to keep it from falling into the wrong hands. And when all his attempts fail, he's left with no alternative but to follow Shannon's guidance into the online world he abhors in order to raise the funds. The more time they spend together, the deeper their attraction becomes, and a game of cat and mouse turns into an unstoppable connection. But when Shannon's assignment comes to an end, will it mean an end to them, too?

MY THOUGHTS:
Wow! This was a fun read! This was the first book I have read by this author and I want to go back and read her prior books. This is a stand-alone novel, but can be read as part of a larger series. I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything when I hadn’t read the previous books, but it sure makes me curious to find out how the sparks ignited between Shannon and Steve in the previous books.

Shannon is a vivacious city girl that loves technology and is a people person, and Steve is a mountain man more in tune with nature and really feels technology is more of a hindrance than a help. They met in previous books and most recently at Steve’s sister and Shannon’s cousins wedding and there was a very strong attraction.

Under the encouragement of Shannon’s sister, she takes a temporary research position studying fox habitats and is able to return to Colorado to see if she can pursue this attraction she has for Steve. She can feel the pull and knows he feels it too, but he is resistant to her charms.

“Every minute with Shannon was a battle of self-control, and he was hanging on by a thread. If he kissed her, touched her, let himself do the things he wanted to with her, his feelings would only magnify. He knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, there would be nothing left to hold on to. Nothing to keep his head on straight. Nothing to protect his heart—or hers.”

Steve doesn’t do casual relationships and he knows Shannon is only there temporarily so he tries to resist, but he can’t deny his growing desire for her. Once he finally gives in, wow the chemistry is off the charts and they both fall hard.

This is a sweet and very sexy read and I am not going to give away anymore on their journey, but it was a good one. They work together to try to save the town of Weston from developers and they learn more about themselves and each other along the way. You won’t regret reading this opposites attract love story.

ARC kindly provided for an honest review.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although CRUSHING ON LOVE is the fourth book in The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor series, this is only the second book I’ve read in this series. This book can easily work as a standalone, but you will probably want to read all of them anyways, especially if you like more rugged heroes and small-town romances.

My favorite part of this book is easily the hero. The Colorado Mountains is where Steve Johnson feels the safest. He’s a bit of a recluse and he doesn’t care about things like the Internet or what people think of him. For me, Steve is a breath of fresh air in terms of hero characterization. You often find charmers in Contemporary Romance and although Steve does have his moments, the guy is a little more rougher and gruffer than most males you encounter. He’s a nice counterpart to the heroine, Shannon Braden who is essentially everything Steve is not.

I never thought I would fall for a man named Steve, but there’s something undeniably sexy about his roughness. But when he tries to fight his attraction to Shannon, it becomes a losing battle as her charm overtakes him. I really loved Shannon as well. She is fun, flirty, and her confidence is what brings this romance to life. I think if Shannon wasn’t as strong a character as she is, the romance would falter because Steve is just so stubborn about being alone. Shannon almost softens him, and it’s a really sweet story to read. We definitely need more heroes like Steve!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Every minute with Shannon was a battle of self-control, and he was hanging on by a thread. If he kissed her, touched her, let himself do the things he wanted to with her, his feelings would only magnify. He knew, beyond a shadow of a doubt, there would be nothing left to hold on to. Nothing to keep his head on straight. Nothing to protect his heart—or hers.”

“You’re changing my world, Butterfly. One pushy moment at a time.”

“This love is bigger than us. It’s unstoppable.”

Another amazing, swoon worthy tale from Melissa Foster!!

Told from dual points of view, Crushing on Love follows the story of Shannon and Steve. Steve is living the life. He loves living in the Colorado Mountain wilderness and all that it entails. He can’t get enough of his peaceful life and has no plans to ever leave the mountains. His life is exactly how he wants it to be….That is until Shannon blows into town. She turns his world completely upside down and has him wanting dangerous things. The fight for self-control has never been harder and Steve will be pushed to the limits. He knows the chemistry between him and Shannon is undeniable, but he doesn’t want to start up something when he knows Shannon is going to just turn around and leave. Will Shannon convince Steve to take a chance and see where things can go? Or is Steve’s self-control stronger than even he knows? You are just going to have to read for yourself and see how everything is going to play out with these two lovebirds….

Look, I’m just going to keep this review short and sweet and tell you that I loved it. I thought the story-line was fun and entertaining. I fell in love with Shannon and Steve right off the bat. I couldn’t get enough of the pull that they had for each other. I loved the will they, won’t they moments. They had me on pins and needles, wondering if they were finally going to get their chance at love.

Crushing on Love gave me everything that I was looking for and more. This book is the fourth in The Peaceful Harbor Series, and like all the others in this series & inter-connected series, it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone read. Crushing on Love is well written. The story-line is fun and the characters are intriguing. It has the perfect mix of angst, and sexy good times. For the most part, this story is pretty light on the drama and is just an overall really good story. I can’t wait to see where the story will go next in Whisper of Love.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*

[Isha Coleman · Rating 4 out of 5]

To date Ms. Foster has tackled heavy issues within her Bradens series. Whether trust issues have arisen, guilt and grief associated with loss, escaping a painful past or trying to outrun hurtful accusations, these Bradens prove they are made of strong stock. Naturally, I had to read Crushing on Love. Steve and Shannon's was not as dramatic and angst ridden as some of the other romances. All in all, there were obstacles but the journey to love was sedate for this author. Wherever there's history, complication is not far behind, but the appeal of Shannon and Steve is that the subtlety added to, not detracted from. A sweetly tuned second chance story.

[Ingrid Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 romantic stars.


I really liked the book... Then why the 3.5 stars you ask? Well, let me tell you first the good stuff, and then, I'll tell you why the 3.5 stars.

This is the story of Shannon and how she is trying to find herself and ends up finding the love, the support and the freedom she was looking for.

She is all bubbleicious, and pushy, and a people kind of person, that loves being in the center of the whirlwind of a crowd. And now she has left her hometown and has ventured to the mountains to find herself, and do a little of investigation on the fox dens in the area.

“Son, when you find the right woman, she doesn’t saunter into your life. She invades it, silently and effortlessly, like air or steam, and before you know it, she’s taken up residence in your heart” he said with a thoughtful gaze. “That’s how you know she’s your forever love”

Steve is the loner kind of guy that everyone likes, but really can't quite understand. Especially his lone form of living, up in the mountains. He is very good at his job of preserving, maintaining and helping in the Mountains.
Until he meets a pushy lovely in pink girl that is the complete opposite of him, and turns his world around.

“It’s Happy Pack time, Buttefly”

The story is really romantic, very swoon worthy, it is told by both sides of the characters. They are well written and you do have a very well sense of who they are, and what they want.

The 3.5 stars are because I think the author milked the story a little too much. I won’t delve much because I do not post spoilers. But about halfway through the book the problem between them is set, and they just keep repeating and repeating and did I mention repeating the problem with no solution in sight.

The rest of the book is very nice, there is not a lot of angst, just lovey dovey swoony love. They help solve a problem together and that part is fun and very enjoyable to read.

All in all I do like it, if you like romantic books, with a happy ever after, then this book is for you.

If you want to read more of my reviews, visit me at www.isatho2000.wordpress.com

[Under the Covers Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although CRUSHING ON LOVE is the fourth book in The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor series, this is only the second book I’ve read in this series. This book can easily work as a standalone, but you will probably want to read all of them anyways, especially if you like more rugged heroes and small-town romances.

My favorite part of this book is easily the hero. The Colorado Mountains is where Steve Johnson feels the safest. He’s a bit of a recluse and he doesn’t care about things like the Internet or what people think of him. For me, Steve is a breath of fresh air in terms of hero characterization. You often find charmers in Contemporary Romance and although Steve does have his moments, the guy is a little more rougher and gruffer than most males you encounter. He’s a nice counterpart to the heroine, Shannon Braden who is essentially everything Steve is not.

I never thought I would fall for a man named Steve, but there’s something undeniably sexy about his roughness. But when he tries to fight his attraction to Shannon, it becomes a losing battle as her charm overtakes him. I really loved Shannon as well. She is fun, flirty, and her confidence is what brings this romance to life. I think if Shannon wasn’t as strong a character as she is, the romance would falter because Steve is just so stubborn about being alone. Shannon almost softens him, and it’s a really sweet story to read. We definitely need more heroes like Steve!

*ARC provided by author
Reviewed by Annie

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[A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous story. I am still swooning over my latest book husband, Steve... or Grizz as he is affectionately called.
This is my first time reading this authors books. I will be adding her to my favourite author lists.
The writing is first class and I enjoyed every word. I was aware that I would know more about the other characters in the story as this is a stand alone amongst a series. If only I had time to read the series from the beginning, I would! I will keep this in mind when I have a lull in my ever growing 'to be read' pile of books.
If all the men in this series are half as good as Steve, I'm in.

Steve is NOT a casual sex kinda guy. He knows that he can't risk falling for Shannon despite their raging attraction. She is a people person and lives far away, and he is a hunky mountain man. A solitary man who would love nothing more than for Shannon to be a mountain kinda girl.
Shannon loves her life, her family and friends mean the world to her but, she needs to find out if she imagined the attraction between her and Steve when they met (in another book so I have no idea how).
Shannon takes on a research job and has the cabin next to Steve's for several weeks. Once she wears Steve down they make a pact: they will NOT fall in love. It will just be for now.
They both know their relationship has 'an expiry date'. Things get super hot. I. MEAN. SUPER. HOT! Phew, pass me a fan.
Obviously they fail miserably at their pact but neither will move from their lives. Broke my heart how much they love each other. They just set the pages aflame. How can Steve move from the mountains to a beach town? How could Shannon move from her life and large, close knit family to live on the mountain?
You need to read this book. It is just wonderful. I'm still swooning by the way.

[Lynn Mullan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy a Braden novel, and this one was no exception. But I didn't expect to fall for 'mountain man' Steve Johnson as hard as I did. Yeah, he's a bit of a loner, comes across as quite gruff, and loves the solitude of living halfway up a mountain. But he can't resist the charms of sweet, quirky, zany Shannon Braden. These two go together so well, and it's obvious they are both crazy about each other. But when one lives a solitary life and loves his job, and the other has a life and family back on the east coast, will they be able to just have a fling, or will one of them have to make a compromise...
I can't say anything more, without giving away spoilers. But you will love this book. I adored the nicknames they gave each other. And the kissing scenes...phew! So hot! They seemed like the longest, sexiest kiss scenes ever!!...and I fell in love with a mountain man <3
There are plenty of our regular LIB characters in this book, and if like me you love a cowboy, well you get two-for-one in this book. Sexy Rexy and his friend, Cowboy Cal. And you will swoon at Sexy Rexy...I can't reveal why...just wait till you read this book.
This ranks up there as one of my favourites. Absolutely loved it!!

[Melissa Mendoza · Rating 5 out of 5]

"He nuzzled her neck as they rose to their feet. 'I'll always be your Grizz, no matter how long my hair is.'"

5 love me stars!!! Another fabulous book by Melissa... I would give it more than 5 stars if I could.

Steve and Shannon have a very back and forth relationship, but I loved it. Melissa knows how to write a book with believable characters and a story line that never seems far fetched. Which I won't lie, I totally love. Steve and Shannon are perfect together, too bad it takes forever for them to figure this out, but I loved the journey we go on with them!! And like with most Melissa Foster books, I didn't want to put the book down to do everyday activities. I needed to know what was going to happen. So as always, great job Melissa another fantastic book!




ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club

[Renee Entress · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 star

I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, pain, secrets, and heartbreak.

Before reading this story please read the below books first
Healed By Love (The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor #1; The Bradens #13; Love in Bloom #32)
Surrender My Love (The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor #2; The Bradens #14; Love in Bloom #33)
River of Love (The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor #3; The Bradens #15; Love in Bloom #34)

This is Shannon and Steve’s story. Steve does not do casual affairs. Shannon is in town only temporally so he can resist her right? She is in town to collect some data. But the chemistry between her and Steve is off the charts. But with her being on assignment can try and get him to take a chance on her? When he needs her help she will step up to help but can they keep their hands to themselves r are both there worlds about to change? Can one touch change the future for them both? Will it be a good change or the end of something that could have been great?

I loved these characters and also the side characters. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.

[Laura Barriga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crushing on Love can be read as a standalone book. I recommend you read the entire family series. There is a connection you get when you have read the previous books. I always feel like I'm returning to a family reunion or invited to weekend getaways. With Crushing on Love, we were in the deep mountains with Shannon and Steve who are attracted to each other. They have been since Jade's Wedding to Rex. They have 2 different lives. Shannon is part of the huge close knit Braden family that lives in a city. Steve is a mountain man use to his solidarity. The chemistry is a slow burn but once it ignites, fire blazes all around them. Great read! Keeps you wanting to know more about the main characters and the families around them. I'm already searching for new books related to the Bradens.

[Nadene (Totally Addicted to Reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have officially found a new book boyfriend. I am so crushing on Steve Johnson right about now. The man is fine in every sense of the word. I consider him to be the total package. He is kind, caring, sensitive, protective and manly. All I can say is Shannon Braden is one lucky woman. How many men would be willing to step outside their comfort zone to please the woman they love? I am not sure of the answer to that question, but Steve Johnson is one such man.

It was evident from the start of the book that there was chemistry between Steve and Shannon. They knew each other before, so this connection was not an instant thing. It had been brewing for several months. Steve, however, was wary of risking his heart where Shannon was concerned. He considered her to be off limits due to the miles that separated them and the fact that they both viewed life differently. He like his solitude and rarely socialized, while Shannon was the type of person who needed people around her. She strived on socialisation. She, however, was determined to pursue the attraction between them to see if it would amount to anything. Steve had no idea that his world was about to change in ways he would never have never expected.

I knew going into this book that I would be in for a sweet romantic ride with a little steam added for good measure. You may be wondering how I knew this. Hello! It’s Melissa Foster we are speaking about here. The moments between Steve and Shannon were not only sweet but hot as hell. It’s a wonder my kindle did not combust. I have not been able to read all her books, but, for those that I have read the thing that has remained constant is her ability to pull me into her stories and have me completely invested in the lives of her characters. As a result, I can never seem to get enough of them. Steve and Shannon’s story was no different.I so wanted to see these two get their act together. I hoped that they would eventually realise that any obstacles to their relationship would be the ones they chose to erect. Love is a powerful emotion and it can move mountains and traverse distances. They would have to be willing to make it work.

There was no drama which allowed for the romance to move along smoothly. The only thing I had to worry about was the steps they would take to ensure that they both got the happiness they deserved.This installment is a great addition to the series. It can be read as a stand-alone, however, I would recommend that you read the previous books in the series to learn more about the supporting characters.

If you enjoy sweet and steamy contemporary romances, then you will love this book. For that matter I think you should go and buy the other books in the series as well, I am sure you will enjoy the journey.

[Diane (Books and Tequila Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Crushing on Love. Shannon Braden is a strong heroine. She knows what she wants and goes after it. And what she wants is the handsome wildlife ranger, Steve Johnson.

Steve doesn’t want change. He likes his quiet, reclusive life in the Colorado mountains. But his attraction to Shannon and their super hot chemistry definitely proves too much for him to resist.

Crushing on Love is book four in The Bradens at Peaceful Harbor series. There are interconnecting characters but all the stories are complete standalones.

I’ve been listening to these stories on audiobook and I really enjoy the wonderful narration.
-4 Stars!-

[Annamaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five Heartwarming Stars! Steve is a loner, quiet and gruff living at the opposite side of the country than Shannon. Shannon is talkative, quirky, and sweet then she takes a job on the mountain. They are two opposites who make a vow to each other. Can Steve and Shannon make their vow work? Ms Foster writes a beautiful story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was engaged from the first chapter and read it in one sitting. The story is a heartwarming, sweet, romance and just all around good feeling novel. This is the fourth book in the Bradens at Peaceful Harbor and can be read as a stand alone novel. Highly recommend!

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.

Plot: 5
Chemistry: 5
Pacing: 5
Ending: 5
Character Development: 5

[Ruthie Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

I am a huge fan of Ms Foster's books - whether I read them in order, or just pick one up at random, I always love the storyline. When read as part of the whole, then side stories may have more vibrancy, but they always deliver a very satisfying romance. One of the things that I enjoy is how the reader gets the big picture, as well as the detail, so every nuance means so much more that the characters ever know! The men are delicious, the women not so perfect that you want to dislike them and their philosophies are open to change, if the right person comes along!

Here Steve and Shannon know that there is an amazing chemistry between them - but sadly they also have a whole country between them. Whilst doing research on Steve's Colorado mountain gives Shannon an opportunity to experience just how wonderful things could be between them ... if only she could see herself leaving Peaceful Harbor. As well as their burgeoning romance, there is a ranch to secure for the nation, and a wonderfully described and successful crowdfunding adventure.

If you like your romances super hot, but also beautifully sweet, then this will be prefect for you.

[✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received for an honest review

This is the 4th book in the Bradens series, and even though I have not read the first 3 books, this did not take away from my understanding or enjoyment of this book at all.

The reclusive mountain man Steve and the sweet and bubbly researcher Shannon are just too cute for words.

From their first meeting at a family wedding to the sparks of attraction back on his mountain, all I wanted was for this pair to give in to their feelings - not just the lust but their good old fast beating hearts and butterflies in the stomach. I could understand the holding back, but gah, I wanted to shake the pair of them and tell them to get it all together!

I loved the banter between "Grizz" and "Butterfly" - from the sweet and innocent to the down and dirty, they had me smiling as I turned each page.

And I loved their family and friends, whose lives are all so interwoven that you really couldn't have one of their stories without all the others.

Ms Foster has drawn me into the world of the Colorado Mountains, so much so that I could feel the crisp mountain air, I could smell the forest, I could hear the crush of leaves and branches under my feet. It really was like I was up on that mountain with them.

She has also made me want to go back and read the earlier books in the series so I do not miss out on anything!

Thank you Ms Foster for a sweet, sexy, angst free read. I can' wait to see what we get next!

[Lynn Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Solitude on the mountain. That's just how Steve Johnson likes his life as he literally lives where he works. He's a ranger and wildlife consultant and prefers a quiet laid-back lifestyle away from hustle and bustle of a town. When Shannon Braden comes back to spends time researching foxes, he can no longer deny his attraction to her, only she lives on the East Coast and is only here a short time. He doesn't do casual relationships plus, she just doesn't stop talking and shatters his peace! 

Shannon enjoyed the time staying at her Uncle's ranch so much whilst doing research that she seizes an opportunity to come back to Colorado again. Her motives are personal because she wants to know if there's a real attraction between the gruff man who lives on the mountain or not. This time around she's staying in a cabin close to his to tempt fate. Knowing she's only here a short time, a short fling is just what she needs, only the big man on the mountain doesn't do 'casual' hook-ups. 

I admit to feeling a little bit nervous about how Steve 'Grizz' Johnson would handle a woman like Shannon 'Butterfly' Braden. I strongly relate to his personality traits and know that this woman with her effervescent personality would be a bit too overbearing for him to deal with sometimes. Of course, I needn't have worried because the author has a knack of bringing together couples that don't instantly seem like a good fit. Easy banter flies effortlessly between the pair and it's adorable. Both are clearly attracted to each other, but both are on different pages when it comes to whether to act on their sizzling chemistry or not. Their mutual love of wildlife is their common bond and when Steve wants to protect a piece of land from becoming developed, Shannon uses her skills to show Steve how to make his wishes come true. A gesture which lays tentative foundations for a future together.

Compromise. This couple had it by the bucket load, but it took a time to get to the place they needed to be on the relationship front. Their ability to meet each other half way is palpable, as they get to know and understand each other's personal needs and adapt themselves accordingly. Steve is passionate, yet reserved. Shannon's need for personal company and be near to her personal creature comforts. It's important to her, but she realises she can have both. 

One of the biggest pulls for me with Melissa Foster's books is the strong sense of family and/or community within the beautiful stories she writes. The secondary characters never dominate, but always enhance an enticing plot. Crushed On Love is a very sexy read with fabulous dialogue exchange against a backdrop of the Colorado mountains.

Another first-class book finished and enjoyed. 

***arc generously received courtesy of World Literary Press via Tasty Book Tours***

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

* A review copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review *

~ 4 Butterfly & Grizz Stars ~

One thing I have learned from reading so many of Melissa Foster’s books is that no matter what book I read, I am in for an enjoyable read.

Crushing on Love was just that….a very enjoyable beach read. This book had an entertaining storyline and lovable characters. There wasn’t really any drama in this book, but she did up the angst meter a little when it came to Steve and Shannon. There was quite the push and pull for awhile in the beginning of the book. I think the only reason this book wasn’t 5 stars for me was because it lacked drama and was fairly predictable. Also I thought the mushiness got a little over the top towards the end of the book. Now it wasn’t enough for me not to really enjoy this story, but the reason I marked it down a star.

Just like all of Melissa’s other books, Crushing on Love is a standalone but also part of a series. You don’t have to read any other book from this series to fully enjoy and appreciate this book. Melissa does a fabulous job connecting the dots for her readers. One I thing I do know, that after reading any book in her series, they make me want to go back and read all the other books I haven’t read yet.

Crushing on Love is a lighthearted read about two people who lead two completely different lives, but learn to adapt to each other. Steve is a man who likes to be alone and live his solitary life in the mountains. Shannon loves city living and being around people. How do these two ever get together??? You’ll have to read this book to see how it all works out. I loved Shannon and Steve. Their characters were very relatable and lovable. Shannon was fun and spunky and kept Steve on his toes. Steve tended to be more on the serious side, but he still had a heart of gold and could melt any girls panties ;) I liked the pace the author took with this couple. She added enough angst that it wasn’t an insta love situation, but didn’t drag it out that I was frustrated by the end. Perfect mix!!!!

I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Melissa Foster’s. And also anyone who is looking for that fun, sexy and lighthearted beach read. This book will have you smiling all the way through.

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[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steve Johnson's passion is watching over the Colorado Mountains as a ranger, and wildlife consultant. He has no problems living on the side of the mountain, and enjoys the peace and quiet. Steve has no illusions about wanting a white picket fence and kids, as most women don't want to live where he does. His peaceful life is thrown in disarray when the fiery Shannon Braden comes back into his life, as she is back to do more research. Steve feels a strong attraction to her, but as he doesn't do casual hook ups, so he thought he had it under control, since she only comes for a few weeks at a time, but this time he's not sure that he will be able to stay away. Shannon has come back to collect more research, but she volunteered to do it, as she wants to figure out the connection she has with Steve. He's not cooperating so it's a bit hard to explore the heat that is ever present when they are near each other, when he keeps his distance. When a big ranch is put up for sale, Steve is willing to do whatever it takes to make sure it doesn't fall into the wrong hands. With no other options available to him, he takes Shannon up on her offer to help him. The more time they spend together, it becomes apparent that the connection won't be denied, and they give in. But what will happen when Shannon has to go back home?

I'm becoming highly addicted to this author's books. I'm not a huge fan of country love, but there's something about her stories that I can't get enough of, and makes me want my own pair of cowboy boots. The character development is great, with a hilarious cast of secondaries that only make it better. Steve and Shannon's flammable chemistry had me sweating, and screaming for them to just give in, and finally it EXPLODED into FIERY FLAMES of sexy scene goodness that could have scorched his mountain up. Melissa Foster's seriously talented writing style never fails to reel me in, and by the end of the story, I'm ready to beg on my knees for more. I can't even pinpoint which couple is my favorite, except whatever book I'm reading at that moment is my favorite, that's how amazing her writing is. Add in a few twists to bring the heart rate up, and the well placed humor that always has me rolling in laughter, you simply can't go wrong with this story! I'm a fan girl, and I'm always ready for the next story she writes, so I'm HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMENDING Crushing on Love!

[Deb Schwartz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crushing on Love is a book full of wonderful characters and head spinning emotions, everything Melissa Foster does best.


Read More. . . http://www.romanceswithalittlekick.co...

[C Exley Books (Cassandra) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am lucky to be part of the Crushing on Love Blog Tour and get a copy to read and do an honest review.

Crushing on Love is book #35 in the Love in Bloom series and is book #4 in the Bradens at Peaceful Harbor series but can be read as a standalone.

I loved this book. I though the storyline was fun and entertaining. I fell in love with Steve and Shannon from the start.

Steve Johnson is a mountain man. He knows the woods forwards and backwards and loves his solitary life. That solitude had been invaded once again by the beautiful and people loving Shannon, as much as he wants her he doesn’t do casual relationships and she plans to return home in a few weeks.

Steve wants to conserve a large ranch next to the national park but he doesn’t have the money. Shannon has the online crowd sourcing knowledge, but he feels it is begging. They need to work together to make Steve’s dream a reality.

Shannon Braden is a city girl who is spending lime in the woods collecting data for a study that she is participating in. They meet at a wedding a few months prior and there was a definite mutual attraction.

Melissa Knows how to write a book with believable characters and a storyline that never seems that far fetched. I think Steve and Shannon are perfect together, it is too bad that it takes them forever to figure it out but I loved the journey we go on with them. Like all of Melissa’s books I didn’t want to put it down to do my everyday activities. I can’t wait to see where the story will go next in Whisper of Love.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

[Jeanne Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crushing on Love is my favorite Melissa Foster book yet! I can’t put my finger on how exactly, but Foster has created a man who is macho, old school, removed from society and a bit reclusive who is also very thoughtful and caring. His ability to show his sweet side with Shannon doesn’t diminish his manliness like so many heroes I read. I worried at first because his reasons for not getting involved started seeming a little emo but he didn’t hold out too long and once he decided to go for it, he was all in. Even when he tries to find a new job to be close to Shannon, he never comes off needy or clingy. He’s just the kind of man every woman would love to have love them.

That Steve is so smitten with Shannon, despite her over the top enthusiasm over everything and her chatty nature, comes off so genuine, never forced. I usually want to smack characters over the head who can’t see the obvious for far too long but it wasn’t until the very end that Shannon’s insistence that she couldn’t leave her family to stay on the mountain with Steve started getting old.

Foster builds just the right amount of tension over all the critical plot lines with perfect finesse. The dialog was great, the emotions so real and the people all became my new friends and family.

Brava!

Rated 4.5 Stars

Reviewed for the Jeep Diva

[Sofia Lazaridou · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crushing on love is the first book I had the chance to read in this series, but I loved the community of Peaceful Harbor. I loved all the characters I saw and I am hooked on this series too. I read an excerpt of this story in the end of Chased by Love and I knew I had to read this story. I did my happy dance when I discovered that I had already that book in my kindle.

I wasn't disappointed by the story. It had a little angst, some jealousy on both parts and plenty of romance. Shannon and Steve might not be my favorite couple, but their story was lovely. I was worried I wouldn't be able to see Shannons personality to its full extent because in the beginning she is described as someone who can carry a conversation for hours on her own, she needs to have people around and her personality can fill the whole room, but I did and I loved her. Steve is more reclusive and prefers to stay at his cabin away from the town doing his business. I was wondering how this couple was going to make things work because they might have clicked so perfectly but their lifestyles are so different. It turns out that Steve is a good hero and he is able to find a solution to this problem.

Crushing on love is another great addition to Melissa Fosters books and I am sure the readers and especially her fans will love it. Can't wait to read what she has in store for us next!

[The Book Junkie Reads . . . · Rating 5 out of 5]

You could call this a second (third, fourth, fifth, . . .) chance at romance for the two. They play this game of cat and mouse and something has to give between the two. It time to stop playing and make things more or less and leave it at that. Steve and Shannon have come to that same spot in the road again, but this time things have to turn out differently. Steve has had it with the back and forth.

Mountain man, loner, loyal, content with life that was until Shannon came back into his (Steve) life. Shannon was back to do a job and then just maybe pick up the little game she has played with Steve. The banter. The kisses. The chemistry. The pet-names. The coming together for more.

I have not read all of the Bradens series, but I have read a number of books in the Love In Bloom series evolving around all the sub-series books related to the series. This one most certainly fits in. There are set peramiters for each one and they don’t just mimic the foreground of the ones around them. Each one has its own build, connection point, pitfalls, and climbs. Each has a special quality that makes you feel very involved with those you come in contact with in each new read. Thank you, Melissa. I have something to read from you that I can always fall back on or look forward to.

[Annis-Bücherstapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ein romantischer Liebesroman in den Bergen Colorados…

Der Liebesroman „Vereinte Herzen-Die Bradens“ von Melissa Foster ist am 17. Juli 2019 im World Literary Press-Verlag erschienen und spielt in den Bergen Colorados.

Steve Johnson ist Ranger in den Bergen von Colorado und genießt sein ruhiges Leben. Doch dann taucht plötzlich Shannon Braden wieder auf und sorgt für jede Menge Unruhe. Eigentlich hatte Steve geglaubt, er hat seine Gefühle für sie in den Griff bekommen, doch als sie vor ihm steht, ist ihm klar, dass das nicht so einfach funktioniert. Aber er ist kein Typ für Affären und weiß, dass Shannon nur für die Zeit des Forschungsprojekts in Colorado bleibt. Doch ist das wirklich der einzige Grund für ihre Rückkehr in die Berge? Vor ihnen liegt eine wunderschöne und romantische Zeit, die geprägt ist von ihrem inneren Kampf, den eigenen Lebenstraum bzw. die Vorstellungen zu verwirklichen oder aber für die große Liebe darauf zu verzichten.

Das Cover des Romans gefällt mir gut. Wo ich mir sonst mehr Wärme für die Cover von Melissa Foster wünsche, passt es hier für meinen Geschmack prima zum Setting und zu dieser Geschichte.

Auch der Klappentext hat mich gleich gepackt. Er hat die Konflikte gut eingeleitet und versprach viel Spannung und unterhaltsame Momente zwischen den Protagonisten, so dass meine Neugier sofort geweckt war, ohne dabei schon zu viel zu verraten.

Zwei Abende habe ich für diesen Roman gebraucht, der mich glücklich und zufrieden zurücklässt.

Shannon ist eine selbstbewusste, lebenslustige, junge Frau, die an einem Forschungsprojekt in den Bergen von Colorado arbeitet. Dafür hat sie sich vor allem entschieden, um wieder bei Steve sein zu können, denn sie möchte für sich herausfinden, ob es mehr als nur die große Anziehungskraft zwischen ihnen ist. Dafür versucht sie viel Zeit mit Steve zu verbringen, in der sie ihn ein wenig provoziert und eifersüchtig machen will. Shannon ist absolut sympathisch und authentisch in ihrer ganzen Art. Sie hat ein klares Ziel vor Augen und gibt nicht auf, bevor sie es erreicht.

Steve. Er lebt etwas zurückgezogen in den Bergen und lebt seinen Job als Ranger. Er ist zurückhaltend und wirkt anfänglich ein wenig brummig. Dass Shannon ihm den Spitznamen „Grizz“ gibt, ist wirklich passend. Doch nach und nach öffnet er sich ihr und zeigt seinen wundervollen Charakter. Steve ist Naturliebhaber durch und durch und tut alles ihm mögliche, um die Natur zu schützen. Doch um sein nächstes Ziel zu erreichen, braucht er Shannon, die ihm dann aber sehr gern hilft. Steve ist mindestens genauso sympathisch und authentisch wie Shannon. Er ist liebevoll und verständnisvoll und hat eine Riesenherz. Auch sein Ziel ist klar und er kämpft dafür wie ein „Grizz“.

Beide Protagonisten habe ich sofort in mein Herz geschlossen. Sie machen glaubhafte Entwicklungen durch und unterstützen sich in der jeweiligen Zielerreichung. Das schweißt sie mehr und mehr zusammen und es ist wirklich schön, das zu beobachten.

Die Nebenfiguren haben mir auch durchweg gut gefallen, wobei die Bradens schon ganz besonders als beeindruckende Familie herausstechen. Ein Zusammenhalt und eine Wärme sind das. Wahnsinn! Wer würde sich da nicht gut aufgehoben fühlen?

Die Handlung des Buches gefällt mir auch sehr. Der Roman hat eine gelungene Spannungskurve, auch wenn es nicht allzu große Konflikte gibt bzw. zum Teil gar keine, außer der inneren Konflikte der Protagonisten. Doch die Nebenhandlung erzeugt dafür ein bisschen Spannung. Man möchte schon erfahren, ob und wie es Steve gelingt, sein Ziel zu erreichen.

Besonders gefallen hat mir, wie Steve die Ranch erhalten will und daraus dieses großartige Projekt entsteht, wobei Shannon ihn mit ihren Stärken unterstützt und beide dafür brennen. Eine meiner Lieblingsszenen ist aber, wie Shannon und Steve sich am Flughafen verabschieden. Da musste ich mir ganz schön die Tränen verkneifen. Aber auch das Ende ist wieder grandios…

Aber wie liest sich das Buch nun?

Es sind 19 längere Kapitel + Epilog, die in der 3. Person Singular in der personalen Erzählform im Präteritum abwechselnd aus Steve und Shannons Sicht geschrieben sind. Mir persönlich gefällt das sehr, denn man kann sich dadurch gut in die handelnden Personen hineinversetzen und deren Denken und Fühlen besser verstehen.

Der Schreibstil war wieder ein absoluter Genuss. Er ist locker, flüssig und so schön bildhaft. Settings und Atmosphäre sind wieder grandios beschrieben und es kommt auch in diesem Buch so ein tolles Lesegefühl auf. Es ist harmonisch und man fühlt sich einfach wohl. Die Dialoge sind wieder sehr unterhaltsam und an manchen Stellen auch amüsant. Aber auch die emotionalen Szenen sind wahnsinnig gut gelungen, so dass man voll mitleidet.

Besonders gelungen war wieder die Beschreibung der emotionalen Ebene. Das fesselt einen als Leser/in dermaßen. Wirklich großartig!

Mein Fazit nach 300 Seiten:

„Vereinte Herzen“ ist ein wunderschöner Liebesroman, der sehr emotional zeigt, dass es sich lohnt, für die große Liebe auch mal etwas aufzugeben. Meist sortiert sich dann auch alles andere neu.

Wer einen gefühlvollen, romantischen Liebesroman mit viel Harmonie sucht, der auch das Thema „Verbundenheit“ verarbeitet, der dürfte mit diesem Roman gut beraten sein. Auf jeden Fall sind es Wohlfühl-Lesestunden.

Von mir erhält diese Buch eine klare Kaufempfehlung (4,5/5 Sternen), weil es so wunderbar authentische Protagonisten sind, die man einfach nur ins Herz schließen kann. Außerdem ist die Liebesgeschichte emotional und wirklich lesenswert. Ein halbes Sternchen ziehe ich ab, weil es für meinen Geschmack ruhig ein paar mehr Konflikte geben könnte.

Insgesamt ist es ein sehr gelungener Roman, den ich nur weiterempfehlen kann.

Und der Textauszug aus dem Buch, das als nächstes erscheint, gefällt mir auch sehr und ich kann es kaum erwarten Tempest’s Geschichte zu lesen.

Vielen Dank an Melissa Foster für diesen Roman.

[Wendy Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely story that proves sometimes all you need is love, and everything else will fall into place. Shannon and Steve have a thing for one another, but they live on opposite sides of the US. She takes a research project on back on his mountain and they make a vow to one another. Will they be able to stick to the vow? Will time make it harder for her to leave? Can either change for the other? Will a long distance relationship work? This was a lovely romance. Well developed characters and a story you can't help but fall in love with.did I mention some hot sex too! Lots of additional characters to fill in the gaps. Quite an enjoyable book. Go ahead and one click it!