IN A TOWN OF KINGS, ONLY LOVE CAN LIGHT UP THE LAST FRONTIER.
Bush pilot Sutton King has no time for distractions.
In the remote Alaskan town of Alpenglow, he carries the responsibility for his wilderness lodge, his family, and the community that depends on him. When the town’s last teacher quits midyear, Sutton needs someone who will stay.
Charlie Griffin only plans to stay one year. A Georgia girl with sunshine in her smile, Charlie arrives as the new teacher for Alpenglow’s tiny one-room schoolhouse. She came north for a fresh start, not for forever.
But Alpenglow has a way of getting under your skin.
It’s a town where bush planes are the lifeline, where the boardwalk hums with familiar faces, and where neighbors appear with hot coffee, baked goods, and opinions you never asked for. The place may be small and quirky, but its people take care of their own.
Charlie quickly falls for Alpenglow, and for Sutton King.
As autumn settles over the mountains and the evening sky glows with the soft blush of Alpenglow, Charlie must decide whether her time in Alaska was only meant to be temporary… or if love can convince her that the Last Frontier is home.
I'm an author, a mum, a dog mom, born and raised in Alaska. I’m a bit of a seasoned soul, having grown up devouring 1980s historical romance novels. Picture me as a young reader, tucked under the covers with a flashlight, lost in those sweet, happily-ever-after tales, convinced they held the blueprint for true love. Oh, the blissful naivety of youth!
As my tastes matured, I gravitated toward spicier, darker contemporary authors. When I began writing my own novels, I wanted to blend the nostalgic charm of 1980s historical romance with the bold intensity of modern dark romance. The result is my At Night series, a dark(ish) historical romance collection that’s close to my heart.
When asked to categorize my novels, I wrestled with the question before landing on “dark(ish).” I know it’s not an official term, but it feels right. My stories aren’t light and fluffy, but this first book, Awaken at Night, starts as a slow burn—perhaps not as dark as some expect from the genre. Rest assured, hold onto your garters, because the series will dive deeper into the shadows as we journey forward together!
This quaint, remote Alaskan town, where everyone on coffee row knows your business, because they care and have become your found family. The King's are the founding staple in this town, ensuring the few citizens who call it home have a place of importance and support from one another. We get to know each of the King's a bit in their own way which is a great setup for future books in the series. This book focuses on Sutton King, primarily, and letting his heart open to what could be love and happiness.
Sutton, the MMC, is swoonworthy! He's tall, dark, handsome, with rugged charm and an absolute gentleman! While a bit stubborn, and scared of his own feelings, he loves deeply, including his cute daughter Gemma, and his siblings he's been looking after as head of the household for years. He's rather selfless, the kind of guy who jumps to take care of his whole family and looks out for the town before he thinks of himself. The one who would "build a house for you, using wood they chopped down themselves."
Charlie, the FMC, is a southern, bubbly, positive woman with experiences that compliment her move to Alaska in an unexpected way. Although guarded in her endeavors in Alpenglow, which sometimes left me frustrated with her questioning of her own heart, she was the sunshine teacher to complement the grumpy rugged bush pilot.
If you love light, cozy, small town romance, with torturous slow burn and some steamy spice scenes, this is your next read!
The landscape and details of this story were described beautifully making it easy to picture this idyllic town where just maybe true love can blossom and happy endings can take flight.
Alpenglow is a sweet, spicy romance set in Alaska - until it isn't! This book is a wild ride of an introduction to the King family. Sutton and Charlie are such a great couple. You can feel the heat and attraction between them from the very first moment they meet. They both struggle with issues from their pasts, and there is the age gap, but love will ultimately prevail.
I started reading and didn't stop until I had finished it at 2:00 am! I was hooked from the start. This book is actually a 4.5 ⭐️. I'm so ready for the next King novel not just because I'm dying to get answers to a few things that were left hanging, but I also am fascinated by the rest of the King family. I highly recommend this book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In a town of Kings, only love can light up the last frontier.
Bush pilot Sutton King has no time for distractions.
In the remote Alaskan town of Alpenglow, he carries the responsibility for his wilderness lodge, his family, and the community that depends on him. When the town’s last teacher quits midyear, Sutton needs someone who will stay.
Charlie Griffin only plans to stay one year. A Georgia girl with sunshine in her smile, Charlie arrives as the new teacher for Alpenglow’s tiny one-room schoolhouse. She came north for a fresh start, not for forever.
But Alpenglow has a way of getting under your skin.
It’s a town where bush planes are the lifeline, where the boardwalk hums with familiar faces, and where neighbors appear with hot coffee, baked goods, and opinions you never asked for. The place may be small and quirky, but its people take care of their own.
Charlie quickly falls for Alpenglow, and for Sutton King.
As autumn settles over the mountains and the evening sky glows with the soft blush of Alpenglow, Charlie must decide whether her time in Alaska was only meant to be temporary… or if love can convince her that the Last Frontier is home.
Tropes: Last Frontier, Bush Pilot, Distractions, Alaska, Responsible for MMCs Wilderness Lodge/Family/Community, Last Teacher Quits Midyear, FMC plans to Stay One Year, FMC New Teacher, Tiny One-Room Schoolhouse, Came North for New Start/Not Forever, Bush Planes = Lifeline, Boardwalk hums with Familiar Faces, Strong Community Support, Slow-Burn Romance, Touch of Spice, Emotional Baggage that adds Depth, Cultural Details that Enrich the Story, A Remote/Isolated Setting that feels almost like a Character Itself, A Great Start to a Series that Has a Lot of Potential, Found Family, Alaskan Pilot MMC x Curvy FMC, Grumpy x Sunshine, Southern Bell Teacher, Great White North, Teny Tiny Town, Mystery, Turmoil, Love, Community, People Take Care of Their Own/Each Other.
Alpenglow is the 1st book in the Alpenglow series by Harlow Brigh.
I fell in love with Harlow’s writing when I read the first book of her Master at Night Series Awaken at Night. So, when I got the opportunity to read the first book in her new series Alpenglow, I knew that I needed to read this book and dive back into one of Harlow’s amazing worlds.
I found Alpenglow to be such an intriguing story that from the very first chapter enthralls you and pulls you into this unique small-town life in Alaska. Harlow painted such a vivid picture of life in this picturesque small-town that I felt like I was living there myself, walking the streets, and honestly this book made me feel like I wanted to pack up and live there. This is one of those books that I devoured from the first chapter till the very last word.
Charlie Griffin is a teacher from Geogia who heads to Alpenglow, Alaska with a three-year contract to teach the students of Alpenglow. Sutton King is a bush pilot for the small community and he’s also a single dad. This book primarily follows Charlie and Sutton trying to convince her to stay for her entire contract.
But over the course of the book, we watch as Charlie and Sutton discover just how much of a connection they actually have. The slow-burn is delicious and torturous throughout the whole story and the journey along the way is simply stunning, and it all leads to Charlie and Sutton finding their way to their own HEA in the end.
I just love Charlie and Sutton together; they are just so cute. Although, I have to admit at the same time there were times were they both frustrated me as they are both stubborn and get stuck in their own heads at times.
Sutton is this sweetheart who is easy to love and all around just a wonderful man. Charlie is this sweet, kind hearted, determined, intelligent, woman who manages to see wonderment all around her, no matter where she is or who’s around her.
**Possible Spoiler Warning** Charlie had this tendency to go back and forth in not knowing what she truly wanted, that really frustrated me, and then the fact that Sutton never sits down with Charlie and addresses his past, honestly there are certain things that you would tell a person before you say those three certain words like Sutton did on his birthday. And then there’s the issue that happened with the plane, we don’t know if it was solved or not, but it wasn’t ever brought up again. I feel like things started to feel a bit rushed at the end, I feel like if Harlow had added a few more chapters and expanded on the missing information, everything would have felt a lot more level.
Alpenglow was a beautiful and total surprise and I found it to be this heartfelt cozy read that will have you saying just one more chapter constantly wanting more. I can’t wait to read more of this series and I really hope that the next books in the series follows Sutton’s other family members, giving them all happily ever afters.
I loved Sutton’s family, each of his siblings is intriguing with their own personalities and backstories that hint that their own stories would be just as interesting as Suttons was. All I can say is that all the King brothers are just *chefs kiss* perfect in terms of MMCs and I really, really hope the rest of this series continues with their stories.
I highly recommend Alpenglow. This is such a great read and if you enjoy teny-tiny small-town romances, strong, intelligent FMCs, protective, single-dad MMCs then you’ll enjoy this book as much as I did and I can’t wait to get my hands on book 2.
Alpenglow was such an intriguing story that instantly pulls you into this unique small town life in Alaska. The story was so vividly painted that it felt like I was really there walking the streets of Alpenglow and made me want to live there. This was definitely a book I ate up start to finish.
Charlie is a school teacher heading to a small town in Alaska for a three year contract. Sutton is a single dad and pilot for the small town. The book is about trying to get Charlie to stay as a teacher but Sutton and Charlie discover how much of a connection they have. There is slow burn throughout the story and adventures along the way to their happy ending.
Sutton and Charlie together are the cutest! Though sometimes they are frustrating because they both get stuck in their own heads. Sutton is a sweetheart, lovable, and all around wonderful man. Charlie is this sweet, determined, and someone who sees wonderment everywhere.
*Possible hints to spoilers* I will say that Charlie's back and forth not knowing what she wanted frustrated me a bit, they never addressed things with Sutton's past to Charlie, and I feel like you'd say certain three words before doing a certain something big like Sutton did on his birthday. I also want to point out whatever happened to the plane issue it was never brought up again or solved. I feel like things were rushed a bit towards the end and should have been expanded some more.
This is a heartfelt and cozy read that will keep you wanting more. I'm hoping that there's a continuation though it didn't give any notification as such but I'd be interested to read Sutton's other family members getting happy endings as well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I just started reading small town romances and Alpenglow didn't disappoint. The author did a great job creating a fictional town that felt real. As someone that moved from a big city to a rural town in the past, I found certain scenarios within the book to be incredibly realistic. There's plenty of characters introduced throughout the story, but they elevate the plot. It was never confusing. They provide the sense of belonging that I loved so much. The spicy moments were done tastefully. I never felt like those scenes were placed in the story just for the sake of it. Those who like small town romance, forced proximity, and grumpy/sunshine -- would love this book. I recently found out there's another novel within this world and I'll definitely be reading that too.
I wish there was more time to learn about the two main characters. For example, I would like to learn more about the backstory that leads up to Charlie's move into Alpenglow and more about Sutton's situation before she (Charlie) arrives. The two hit it off pretty quickly, but I think more buildup/suspense would've been more impactful. There were moments throughout the book that I wish the reader could've seen. Mostly the two protagonists getting to know each other. Seeing more of the dates, conversation, and even their inner thoughts about one another over time would be beneficial. The only other critique I have is the moments of conflict. I felt as if they were pretty random. They went as fast as they came. Those moments did a great job of showing the community and their teamwork. However, the points of contention themselves weren't drawn out enough and didn't flow well with one another.
Alpenglow was a total surprise. Set in an extremely small, remote community, it beautifully blends resilience, nature, and human connection into a story that feels both charming and deeply engaging. This is the start of a series centered on the King family—and it definitely left me wanting more.
Each sibling is intriguing, with just enough personality and backstory to hint at very different (and promising) stories to come. There’s also a thread of suspense introduced toward the end that isn’t fully resolved, clearly setting up future books. That said, this story still delivers a satisfying HEA—no frustrating cliffhangers, just enough mystery to keep you invested and eager for what’s next.
What to expect: A strong sense of community and support Slow-burn romance A touch of spice Emotional baggage that adds depth Cultural details that enrich the story A remote, isolated setting that feels almost like a character itself A great start to a series that has a lot of potential—I’ll definitely be continuing. Great family dynamics
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
My girlfriend got me into Harlow Brígh with her dark At Night series: intense, morally gray, stay-up-all-night reads that hooked me completely. So when she handed me Alpenglow and said it was lighter but still her, I was skeptical. Small-town Alaskan romance? Come on.
She was right. I finished it in three days..
This book is sweet, heartfelt, and steamy without ever feeling forced. Sutton King, the grumpy bush pilot carrying his family and town on his shoulders, is one of her best heroes yet. Charlie, the sunny southern teacher with student loans and zero Alaska prep, is the perfect match. Their slow-burn builds beautifully, and when it finally explodes , it's filthy, reverent, and so earned. The town feels real, the family moments hit hard, and the spice still has that signature Harlow edge wrapped in real tenderness. If you loved her darker stuff but want heat with heart and hope, this is it.
Five stars. Best thing I've read this year. Tell my girlfriend she wins!
Alpenglow immediately pulled me in with the scenic sweet and spicy romance being set in Alaska. The town relies on bush planes and people who want to stick around.
When Charlie arrives, she's set on a new start, not necessarily looking at making it a forever home. But taking the job as the new teacher in a one-room schoolhouse, her life shifts and suddenly, making a life in the town aligns with more than simply a three-year contract stay.
Sutton King is a bush pilot and also carries a lot of responsibility on his shoulders including caring for the wilderness lodge that belongs to his family. He's a single dad who the community relies on quite frequently.
Charlie and Sutton were both completely relatable characters -- strong-willed and set in their ways, determined that their mind is leading them on the right path. But it's when they start letting their heart have a little more say on the matter that we really get to see them shine.
This small town's cast makes me want to stay and read a little longer! I'm sure there are plenty more stories to know and tell!
ARC Review Alpenglow by Harlow Brigh Release Date: 3/24/26 4.5⭐️/🌶️🌶️
When Georgia peach Charlie Griffin signs a teaching contract looking for a fresh start in Alpenglow, Alaska, she certainly doesn’t plan for instant chemistry with broody single dad & bush pilot Sutton King. With him comes his big, wonderful family and neighbors that become instant friends who all welcome her right into the fold.
What to expect when reading:
📚 Grumpy/ Sunshine 🏔️ Alaskan Wilderness 📚 Teacher FMC 🏔️ Bush Pilot MMC 📚 Single Dad 🏔️ Small Town 📚 Found Family 🏔️ Slow Burn
My only complaint about this book was that it wasn’t longer! A little bit of the ending felt slightly rushed and I would have preferred more pages to draw it out more. There’s also an unresolved mystery 🤔 So here’s hoping this is the start of a series, because I need more of the town of Alpenglow and stories for the rest of the King family!
Thank you @harlowbrigh for trusting me with this ARC review!
Alpenglow completely pulled me into the heart of small-town Alaska. Harlow Brigh paints such a vivid picture of the community that it honestly felt like I was walking the boardwalk, drinking coffee with the locals, and watching the bush planes come and go.
Charlie’s warmth and Sutton’s steady, protective nature make their slow-growing connection feel natural and genuine. What really stood out, though, was the town itself. Alpenglow feels alive with quirky neighbors, strong community ties, and the kind of place where everyone shows up for each other whether you asked them to or not.
This story is cozy, heartfelt, and quietly beautiful. By the end, I didn’t just love the romance. I wanted to pack a bag and move to Alpenglow.
Harlow Brigh is soooo much fun to read! Loved these characters and the story! There is a mystery still in play and I can't wait to see what comes out with that. Like how dare someone do that!
The King brothers are *chefs kiss*. This book had me giggling and kicking my feet. It had me gasping, stressed, laughing out loud, and it had me sobbing. I ran the full gambit of emotions. I loved how this story developed over time. This wasn't a fall into bed immediately thing. I loved that characters were given depth and range.
I can't wait to see what happens next in this sleepy little town and I am hoping that the entire family gets their HEAs!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Had to stay up super late to finish this, I was so invested!!
Harlow’s writing was absolutely perfect!! I was able to paint the most perfect picture in my mind of what the sunset in Alaska, above the tree line looked like, down to the needles on the trees. CHEFS KISS.
Omg Harlow captured Alaskan beauty and culture perfectly and painted the most perfect picture of Charlie and Sutton’s love story. I never thought I’d like courting and slow burn love so much, but they did it perfectly!
From the first dip in the pool, to halloween night on the rug in front of the stove, I wanted Charlie to realize that she had it all!! I wanted her to take what was hers!!!
Ughh I read it on my kindle, I NEED to get a shelf trophy now!! HIGHLY recommend if you couldn’t tell ;)
Sutton is a bush pilot who loves his siblings, his daughter Gemma and his town. And living in Alaska. He is also full of charm, stubborn , a bit grumpy and a man you soo want to have in your life .
Charlie has just moved to Alaska to become the towns local teacher. Sunshine on two legs. One thing though is she guards her heart , but one grumpy, true family pilot can help her break down any walls.
This is a slow burn romance , with both parties holding onto baggage , family front and centre. The romance is perfect.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sweet story of the new Southern bell teacher in the Great White North falling who falls for the local bush pilot. Alpenglow is a tiny town run by the King family, led by Sutton King. Sutton wasn’t expecting the new teacher to be a woman, and Charlie wasn’t expecting such a remote town—or to fall in love. You end up falling in love with the town and its residents right along with Charlie. A great read, and I can’t wait to see what more comes from Harlow Brigh and the people who call Alpenglow home.
I was so invested in this story, I couldn't put it down!
Sutton and Claire were everything I wanted in H/h. Sweet, sexy and slightly haunted by the past. Their story was very well written and really set the hooks in.
The side characters were well developed as well setting us up for some great future reads. There was a little unsolved piece in the story but I can only assume its to leave room for more in the next books. I've never read Harlow story before but I will be binging now!
OK, overall this was a great book. A little bit of mystery and turmoil with a lot of love and community. I loved the landscape description, it felt like I could see the landscape myself. I would have to say the only thing I didn't like was the ending. So many unanswered questions. Anxiously awaiting a second book. I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was such a sweet and spicy story. Absolutely loves the small town in Alaska. Charlie and Sutton were the best. Loved the little bit of suspense in this, but overall, I just truly entire the story about these two. Their moments, the banter, those steamy encounters. A wonderfully written story. I was so happy that Charlie chose to stay and her and Sutton got together.
I loved the descriptions of Alaska and the town ❤️ Sutton and Charlie were absolutely perfect for each. I loved the longing and angst between the two of them...and the spice 🤌 This was such a great book, now I want to visit Alaska!
As soon as I read the description about this book I knew I was going to love it. Alaska - pilot mmc - curvy fmc - grumpy x sunshine 😍😍😍 It did not disappoint. I couldn’t put it down (it’s officially 4:03am here lol). The main and side characters were all wonderful. So loveable and relatable. All I kept thinking about was when they would all get their HEAs. I wanted to be part of that community! The reasons for not going full on 5-stars were mostly because the beginning felt a little choppy. Sutton’s voice was muddled with Charlie’s at first, but after the first few of chapters I full on could tell them apart without even checking. Awesome read with well done spicy scenes. Totally recommend!
Harlow Brigh had me on a hook like an Alaskan Salmon. I read this story in one sitting. It was the perfect palette cleanser after finishing a long book series. I felt transported to Alaska with deliberate descriptions of the settings. There are plenty of loveable characters to latch onto. The pacing was great and never felt stagnant. In my opinion, small town romances can be boring because of their predictability, but Alpenglow is not boring. I found it engaging and was invested in the outcome.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was such a cute story. Alpenglow was so well described and brought me right back to when I lived in Alaska. The slow burn between the FMC and MMC was so so good, I loved their relationship and the King family! I cannot wait to read the next installment of this series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.