I learned the hard way that relationships aren’t worth the trouble.
That was a hard lesson I learned after winding up pregnant and alone at nineteen. Facing an uncertain future, I dropped out of college and moved home to take care of my baby.
Ten years later, I wouldn’t change a thing. My ex might be a deadbeat, but I have my daughter. I have a job I enjoy. I have well-meaning friends who try to fix me up, insisting they know “just the right guy” this time.
But I don’t want a relationship. I don’t need one. At least I didn’t think so until Ronan. He’s different. He likes me and my daughter. He puts cracks in the walls I’ve erected around my heart. And when I’m in danger, he’s the one I trust to protect me.
Falling for a single mom and her daughter was the last thing I expected.
But there’s just something about Angel that calls to me. She’s beautiful. Kind. Funny. And when I’m with Angel and her daughter, the dreams I gave up on years ago don’t seem so unreachable anymore.
Still, I’m hesitant. For all the danger I faced fearlessly on the battlefield, I’m scared of being hurt by a woman again.
Then someone tries to hurt Angel. My Angel. Determined to protect her, I’ll use everything I learned in the Special Forces, along with the help from my teammates at Green Mountain Guardians, to make sure no one ever hurts her again.
Mountain Champion is a steamy romantic suspense set in small town Vermont featuring a former Delta Force operator, a single mom with a spunky daughter, a security team of Special Ops veterans, found family, forced proximity, edge-of-your-seat twists, and a guaranteed HEA. Can be read as a standalone.
Gia Cobie is an Amazon best-selling and award-winning author living in upstate New York with her husband and pets. In her spare time, Gia enjoys reading and spending time in the Adirondacks, and also has a soft spot for reality romance shows and buying too many books. Gia loves writing about protective heroes and strong heroines who always find their much-deserved happy endings.
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Intense, gritty, and deeply emotional! Gia continues to bring a storyline that has me on the edge of my seat, I can't wait to see what's next in this series!
🟩Contemporary romance 🟩Romantic suspense 🟩Military romance 🟩Protector 🟩Small town 🟩Security team - Special Ops 🟩A former Delta Force operator 🟩A single mom with a spunky daughter 🟩Age gap 🟩Forced proximity 🟩Slow-burn 🟩Found family 🟩They've both been hurt before 🟩The mystery and danger they are thrown into 🟩Enough suspense and emotional baggage to fill a room 🟩Page turner / suspenseful / fast paced 🟩Engaging / riveting / gripping / gritty / addictive storyline 🟩Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
Mountain Champion is the fifth book in the Green Mountain Guardians series. Offers high-stakes tension in the deeply resonant, slow-burn relationship between former Delta Force operator Ronan and single mother Angel. Far from a typical protector-and-damsel story, Cobie crafts a nuanced exploration of vulnerability, demonstrating that the hardest walls to dissolve are often those built from love and self-preservation. Mountain Champion beautifully balances edge-of-your-seat suspense with a deeply moving, slow-burn romance that feels incredibly earned.
Angel has spent ten years building high walls around her heart after being left pregnant and alone at nineteen. She doesn't need saving—she has built a wonderful, self-sufficient life with her spirited ten-year-old daughter, Haley. Enter Ronan, a former Delta Force operator who is fearless on the battlefield but secretly terrified of being hurt by love again. What makes this story shine is how Ronan slowly breaks down Angel’s defenses. He doesn’t just court Angel; he embraces her entire world. Cobie brilliantly subverts the "invincible alpha" trope by grounding Ronan’s hesitation in a deeply human fear of rejection. This shared caution heightens the romantic tension, transforming their connection into a careful trust. The bond that develops between Ronan and young Haley is incredibly sweet and adds a rich, emotional layer to the plot. He is the ultimate safe, sturdy, and selfless hero you desperately want in your corner. The chemistry between Ronan and Angel is electric, built on mutual respect and healed wounds. When danger strikes and someone targets Angel, the slow-burn chemistry explodes into intense, high-stakes protection mode. Supported by the fantastic camaraderie and banter of the Green Mountain Guardians team, the pacing keeps you turning pages late into the night.
It’s an unputdownable blend of vulnerability, found family, and thrilling action. By the time Ronan and Angel finally reach their hard-won HEA, you’ll be crying happy tears right along with them. Highly recommended!
I can’t believe this is the last book of the Green Mountain Guardians series. It seems as if I only just read Enzo, Knox, Gage and Alec’s stories and poof Gia announces Ronan’s is the last one. But no fear, Mountain Champion is just a great as all the previous books.
Angel got pregnant very young at only 18, gave birth to a sweet girl Haley – now 9 - who’s the highlight of her life. She’s got a job as a waitress at Blissfull Brews and is loved by everyone. Having been dumped by the Haley’s father wanting nothing to do with her and the baby when she told him she was pregnant, she’s been reluctant of getting involved in a new relationship. Lately however he’s been contacting her wanting to talk which she refuses.
Ronan is a former Green Beret and Delta who’s part of the GMG team and also works part time as a medic at the Stowe Mountain Resort. He’s been badly hurt in the past and has sworn of all relationships. Of course he’s noticed Angel, thinks she’s beautiful and doing a marvelous job of raising her little girl. Unfortunately his past makes him think he’s better off alone.
When he’s sort of set up by one of his meddling friends to help out Angel, one thing leads to the other and before he knows it they spent more and more time together. Unfortunately he nearly ruins the good thing they have through his insecurities and when on top of that weird things start to happen in Angel’s life he opens up and promises to help and protect her and little Haley who’s become the two most important people in his life.
Even though I had a hard time connecting with Ronan I loved this book. The development of their relationship takes precedent over the suspense part IMO but that was exactly what this story needed. Of course we also see all the GMG team members jumping in when Angel is in trouble, immediately having their backs when things go wrong.
I’m sad to see this series coming to an end but hopefully a lot of the characters we met in all of the Green Mountain Guardian book will get their own stories.
As always I beta read this book for the author and I’m leaving an honest voluntary review.
Another amazing visit with the men and women of the Green Mountain Guardians. Ronan, former Green Beret and Delta Force, has found his calling with the Green Mountain Guardians. They assist both paying and pro bono clients who need help. Ronan had met and was attracted to Angel Nilsson, who works at Blissful Brews, and is there when she needs protection from an abusive customer. He has been cautious about dating after his disastrous first time at marriage. Although he tries to keep apart from Angel and her daughter, Haley, he offers to help with their Christmas lights. Further assistance is needed to make the snow mountain, in their yard, that Haley hopes to use to practice skiing. As a medic, he works at the local ski resort and offers to teach Haley how to ski. He is unaware that Angel has been receiving phone messages from Haley’s father who made it clear that he wanted nothing to do with her when he learned that she was pregnant. What does he want now? Ronan is not sure if he is good enough for Angel and pulls away when he believes that she might be interested in another man. When he tries to reunite with her, will she trust him when he walked away before? When an unexpected visitor arrives at her home, why are they contacting her now? Luckily, Angel was able to contact Ronan when the visit goes awry. Will he get to her to her in time or has he lost his chance with the woman he loves? I love the way this author gives us updates on previous characters from her earlier books! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
"Mountain Champion" is the final book in the Green Mountain Guardians series. I felt a strong connection to both Angel and Ronan, who were not looking for a relationship at the time but unexpectedly found each other. This made their bond feel truly genuine and realistic. I loved watching how their relationship progressed naturally over time and how supportive they were of one another.
Angel has been a single mom to her adorable little girl, Haley, for so long. It was heartwarming to see her open up and let down the walls she had built over the years, allowing Ronan in. At the same time, it was touching to see Ronan do the same with Angel, and watching Haley steal the show and capture Ronan's heart from the very beginning was simply the cutest thing ever.
However, as unusual events unfold, Angel's past begins to resurface in her life, making it seem like more than just a coincidence. The suspense and mystery build as Ronan vows to protect the family he is creating with Angel and Haley. He is determined to do whatever it takes to keep them safe, with help from his team at GMG.
The love story of Ronan, Angel, and little Haley makes for a fantastic conclusion to this incredible series. "Green Mountain Guardians" has been filled with emotional connections, healing, and the journey of learning to trust and love again, all while packed with action, drama, and suspense. It's a must-read, and I am excited to see where we will go next!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Angel works hard supporting herself and her nine year old daughter. When her ex walked away after she found put she was pregnant, she returned to her hometown and settled down to raise her daughter. Life hasn't been easy especially after Angels own mom passed away. But she wouldn't change anything. Ronan works with The Green Mountain Guardians. After leaving the army, well he's worked with the Green Berets and Delta Force. The work he now does is just a natural progression from that. He also helps out on the slopes part time. He's happy being single, relationships are not on the cards for him. So going to help Angel hang her christmas lights around the outside of her house. What he wasn't ready for was the feelings he had when she feel from the broken ladder. This is the perfect romantic suspense story, with just enough spice. Both characters have reasons for avoiding relationships. But when Angel suddenly needs help, Ronan knows he'll do whatever it takes to protect both Angel and her daughter. Will Ronan's past stop him from admitting how he feels. When a face from Angel's passed turns up will she lose everything. This is a lovely easy read story that you don't want to miss reading
Mountain Champion is the fourth book in Gia Cobie’s amazing Green Mountain Guardians series. It is a slow burn, military romantic suspense story filled with amazing characters and great chemistry. It was written in first person, from the point of view of both the hero, a former Delta Force operator Ronan and the heroine, single mom and waitress, Angel.
I loved the connection that was evident between Angel and Ronan. They’ve known each other for years but weren’t ready to open their hearts until circumstances and “helpful” friends brought them closer. Together, along with Angel’s daughter, Hazel they learn to navigate their new relationship, while trying to figuring out who wants to hurt Angel. Will they get their well deserved happily ever after? Read it and find out.
This was an amazing addition to this amazing series! All the books in the Green Mountain Guardian series contain a happily ever after and can be read as a standalone. However, reading it in order will give you a better appreciation for the characters and the overall series storyline. I can’t wait to read story the next story in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mountain Champion brings Ronan and Angel together in a story filled with slow-burn romance, vulnerability, danger, and heart. Ronan steps into the role of reluctant protector, but despite his resistance, he can’t deny the growing attraction he feels toward Angel.
A standout addition is Hayley, who completely charms her way into your heart. The bond that develops between her and Ronan is genuinely sweet and adds an extra emotional layer to the story. Both Ronan and Angel carry painful pasts and vulnerabilities that earn both your sympathy and frustration as they struggle through their emotional walls.
The romance burns slowly until unexpected danger suddenly shifts the pace, forcing everyone into a scramble to uncover who is behind the threat. Just when the story lulls you into a sense of calm, it explodes back into action again.
Through every emotional and dangerous moment, the banter, camaraderie, and unwavering support from the team and friends remain strong. By the time Ronan and Angel finally reach their HEA, it’s impossible not to feel the happy tears right alongside them.
Angel has been a single mother since she was eighteen. After her ex left her when she became pregnant and never contacted her again, she built a quiet but comfortable life with her daughter in their small hometown. They're not rich, but they get by just fine. With her daughter being such a ball of energy, Angel has always felt like she doesn't have the time—or the need—for a relationship.
Ronan is one of the Guardians. He's noticed Angel for a long time but never acted on his interest because he had sworn off women. His friends, however, are determined to play matchmaker, and one day he agrees to help Angel as a favor. One thing leads to another, and before he knows it, he finds himself enjoying the time he spends with both Angel and her daughter.
The romance in this book is sweet and heartfelt, and I enjoyed watching the relationship between Angel and Ronan develop. Despite Ronan's initial reluctance, he eventually realizes that resisting his feelings for Angel is impossible. The suspense element was also interesting, and I was genuinely surprised by the reason behind it.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read for me—warm, engaging, and filled with lovable characters.
I have been waiting for this simply fantastic book, wonderful characters and storyline Mountain Champion is a simply wonderful read, I loved the interactions between the two main characters Ronan is a simply wonderful protector, he is kind and thoughtful always considering others before himself and this make him a very safe and sturdy character with those around him. The effort that he has gone to for Angel with her millstone and problems he has really put himself out there and it is obvious that he will always put himself up front to help those that are not able to help themselves. Ronan is a character that you as the reader would most certainly appreciate having in your corner and the way that this story has been written is simply wonderful and it is impossible to put this book down until the final page when you discover what the actual outcome is for this tremendous book. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
Ronan is asked by Hazel, at Blissful Brews, to stop by and help Angel with her Christmas lights, she's putting them up by herself because her nine year old daughter, Haley, wanted to have lights like her friends. He arrives in time to watch her fall off the ladder and, fortunately, land in the snow, he rushes forward to help, he's a trained medic, but she's only winded and bruised. Ronan has no intention of allowing Hazel to match make, he's had one upset in his past and it still hangs over him. He's not relationship material. Angel has felt a bit fluttery when Ronan is around but she's too busy looking after her daughter, working and the upkeep of her family home to worry about a man. Ronan finds lots of reasons to help Angel and Haley, realising that he has more feelings than he expected. He's very protective of them both. When events occur the team pull together to protect them both. Who is causing the problems? I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another great romantic suspense in the series from Gia
Gia has written a happy and cozy small town into this romantic story. Ronan, a medic for the ski patrol at Stowe Mountain ski resort and an operative for Green Mountain Guardians gets conned into dropping by Alices’s home where she is putting up her outdoor Christmas lights. Ronan then meets Alice’s daughter Haley and is impressed with her and her mother right away. Ronan becomes a friend to Haley and becomes her skiing coach so she can compete with her school team.
Then weird things start to happen around Alice’s home like people snooping around her house setting off motion detectors installed by Ronan.
Ronan quickly addresses these issues and convinces Alice and Haley to move to his house which is more remote and secure. And then numerous attacks on Alice need the attention of the Guardians until the culprit is caught.
The romantic sections of this novel are steamy with Alice and Ronan in this tale and I can’t wait for the next Gia Cobie romantic adventure novel.
Another 5-star book from Gia. This one starts with Angel and Ronan thinking they don’t need anyone to be happy. And to some extent that may be true, but as many of us know finding that special one is so much more than just happy. Ronan agrees to go to Angel's house to help with Christmas lights. He gets there though she has started the ladder has issues and she falls into a big pile of snow. Not too hurt, but Ronan being a special forces medic he swoops in to help. Things progress from there with some good things and bad things and as typical of a Gia book the slow burn begins. And the flames continue to be stoked by Haley who really likes Ronan and the feeling is mutual knowing that he missed out on being a father another time. Loved the book the unexpected twist and turns that always happen but you wonder how and what will happen. This is a weekend read because you just can’t put it down.
Oh, how I have loved spending time with the Green Mountain Guardians over the last couple of years and this book is one of my favourites. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Ronan and Angel are a cute couple, Angel is single-handedly bringing up a daughter and Haley is the right mix of cute, preconscious, vulnerable and kind. But strange things are happening to Angel and is concern that she is being targetted by something overcomes his reluctance to get close to anyone but slowly he comes to care for both Angel and Haley.
This is a slow build romance with great elements of suspense, threats from both the known and unknown and surprises along the way. I really enjoyed the slow development of their relationship, the involvement form Ronan's team members and the feisty independence of Angel, stays part of her even as she accepts Ronan’s help. Another great read in this fab series.
Angel was a single mom who has had to do everything on her own and raise Haley by herself because the deadbeat dad wanted nothing to do with them. And she’s made peace with being alone and putting all her energy into raising her daughter. Ronan is a good guy and is happy to see his friends finding their significant others but is absolutely determined not to put his heart on the line after a terrible betrayal. But then one of the SO’s pushes Ronan to help Angel with a home project and he finds a woman who wants nothing from him, who gives him an out every time he offers something, and does everything she can to not be a burden. In many ways, both Angel and Ronan were naive about how a healthy relationship worked but they learned together. A sweet romance between two people who had to learn to trust, a spunky kid, a lot of friends and dogs. And danger and suspense! A fitting end to the series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
4.5 ⭐️Read I was excited for this ARC because I love romantic suspense reads and this one delivered. Loved the friendship between Hazel and Angel throughout this book and that they were there for each other too. Even through at first Angel and Ronan weren't looking for a relationship together, but then I was so happy when they got together and I loved the romance between them. I also loved the parts of the book when Ronan and Angel and her daughter Haley spent time together and I loved how Ronan protected both of them too. And I also loved how Ronan's teammates were there for them when they needed it throughout this book. I didn't like the bad guys in this book and what they did to Angel but I was happy when they got stopped at the end. I'd recommend this to fans of Gia Cobie , especially those who enjoy romantic suspense books. Thanks to the author for the ARC and I'll definitely be looking out for future releases.
Mountain Champion by Gia Cobie is another fantastic read from one of my go-to authors, and one I would highly recommend. As readers have come to expect from Gia Cobie, the story is packed with page-turning excitement, heartfelt romance, and characters that feel real and relatable.
This single-mum/protector romance truly has it all. Angel and Ronan make a wonderful couple, and watching their relationship slowly develop - with the help of Angel’s delightful daughter - makes for an emotional and thoroughly engaging read. The chemistry, tension, and family dynamics are beautifully written, making it easy to become invested in their journey.
Although I’m sad this is the final book in such a brilliant series, I’m hopeful we’ll get to catch up with some of these beloved characters again in future books.
4.5 ⭐️ Ronan and Angel - such a sweet love. Angel is a single mom to 9 year old Haley. She works hard to try to make ends meet and give Haley a good life. She also tries to do everything around her house herself so she can save money. Well, Hazel decides to play matchmaker and send Ronan to Angels house to make sure she is being safe putting outdoor Christmas lights up. Ronan gets there when the ladder breaks. And that is the start of the protector that is Ronan. Ronan isn’t perfect by any means. He has a past that messes with his head - and yes, it does pull him away from her. But it’s short lived.
One of the best parts of this story is Ronan’s relationship with Angel’s daughter, Haley. It’s the cutest to watch the development of the love they learn to have. She wants nothing more than Ronan to be her “real” daddy.
-A sweet and emotional romance that perfectly wraps up the Green Mountain Guardians series. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts about the story.
Ronan and Angel both carry painful pasts, making their slow-burn journey to love feel genuine and rewarding. Angel’s daughter, Haley, steals every scene she’s in, and the bond that grows between her and Ronan adds so much heart to the story. The family dynamic is warm, touching, and easy to love.
The romance takes center stage, while the suspense builds steadily in the background before bringing plenty of tension and action. The support and camaraderie of the Green Mountain Guardians make the story even stronger. A heartfelt finale filled with love, healing, danger, and a well-earned happy ending.
Mountain Champion is for the reader's that enjoys a storyline full of drama action suspense romance that is sweet and swoony until someone turns up the heat and then it becomes hot and spicy the characters are engaging well-written and easy too relate to ( Ronan did get on my last nerve in the first part of book believe me you will understand why lol) nice array of characters from prior books as this series has the whole found family vibe and let's not forget that pesky little plot twist that makes you rethink who the stalker is and of course I'm looking forward to the next in series or maybe a next-generation hint hint.
I received an advance reader's copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mountain Champion is here! I’ve been waiting for Ronan’s book since the second we met him. There’s just something about a quiet, tortured hero 🤤 and ever since we met Angel in Hazel’s book, I had a feeling she’d be paired with him. Ronan is the definition of a protector; he’s so kind and sturdy. He’s not without his baggage, but I loved that he put the effort into dealing with it for Angel. As for Angel, she’s perfect for him. And so is Haley. It was so special to read. What Angel goes through angered me so much, but Ronan is there for it all.
Small side note: I NEED Sage to get her own HEA. She’s one of my favourite side characters.
Disclaimer: I’m on Gia Cobie’s ARC team. This review is honest and voluntary.
This is so bittersweet, reading Mountain Champion book 5 of the Green Mountain Guardians because this is the end of the series!
I have loved each one of the books in this series, but I think Ronan and Angel were the perfect book to end on!
My review can’t do this book justice, but I will tell you that watching Angel do everything she can for her and her daughter and then Ronan being the kind of man any single mom would want to find, this book is perfect!
I am going to leave the tropes here and if you enjoy any of these, then know, you will love this.
• Single mom • Protective alpha • Military heroes • Found family • Small town • Forced proximity
This was a page turner for me, and I read most of this in one sitting. Gia Cobie will always be a must-read author for me!
Gia Cobie has the gift of being able to bring her characters to life. Ronan and Angel are sweet, caring, and protective individuals who have faced challenges in their life. Ronan’s co-workers encouraged him to go to Angel’s house to help her and her adorable daughter with holiday decorations. He was attracted to her, so he kept coming back to help.
There is suspense when Angel’s life is threatened and Ronan, along with his Green Mountain Guardians buddies, all step in to protect her and her daughter. It’s a wonderful story that presents the fear of attachment, the risk of love, and the glory of embracing life. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely adored "Mountain Champion" by Gia Cobie. It had everything I love in a romantic suspense — heart, chemistry, danger, and a genuinely emotional love story. Angel was such a strong and relatable heroine, and watching Ronan slowly open his heart to both her and her daughter Haley was incredibly sweet. Their connection felt authentic and earned, with just the right amount of tension and steam. The protective former Special Forces hero + single mom dynamic completely worked for me. Add in the suspenseful twists and the setting, and I couldn’t put it down. It was also so great to see characters from the previous books included again. It made the story feel even more familiar and brought back that amazing found-family feeling that makes this series so special. Definitely one of my favorites in the series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This checked my boxes for a really good contemporary romance. I loved the small town vibes, the age gap, forced proximity, and the found family concept. The characters are well rounded. The storyline is developed nicely and has just enough details. The slow burn is so good in this too. I liked how the story built up everything gradually up until that pivotal moment and then I liked how it brought everything together in the end. This is such a fantastic read. And an addictive page turner that drew me in from the beginning. Thanks so much to the author for a copy of this. All opinions are my own and freely expressed.
I believe that this book is my favorite Green Mountain Guardians book so far. I really enjoyed reading this story. It grabbed me from the beginning and didn’t let go. I love the dynamics between Angel and Ronan. Angel is literally the perfect woman for Ronan. I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I gotta say that Ronan’s ex is the type of woman who gives all women a bad name!! Completely heartless!! She is definitely someone you will love to hate. I can completely understand why Angel falls for Ronan. He is amazing!! You will definitely miss out if you don’t read this one.
Ronan thinks he is happy being single. Angel is an independent single mom not looking for anymore heartache. A bit of meddling by friends, a ladder incident and our love journey begins. I loved how their trust slowly builds as they cautiously move from friendship to forever. Ronan was so sweet to darling Haley. When danger threatens Angel, Ronan and the GMG team jump into action. Perfect blend of romance and suspense. Tender heartwarming HEA. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. It is always hard to see a series end but I am looking forward to where Gia Cobie takes me next.
This is the 5th book in the Green Mountain Guardians series. i love these Guardians and Ronan and Angel are no exception. They have known each other for years. Friends and fate give them a push again and this tine things fall into place and they do more than push their thoughts of each other down deep. This time they each take a chance and the results are something neither imagined they would ever have. This is a sweet story that shows their love over time. When they realize that someone is after her or Haley it's the final push to accept their feelings. Ronan's biggest fear is not getting to her in time. Each of these Guardians get better and better.
Ronan and Angel were instantly likable, and their connection felt natural and authentic. Their guarded pasts added depth, making their relationship progression believable.
Ronan’s protectiveness, especially his sweet bond with Haley, was a highlight and brought a strong sense of safety. Angel’s strength as a young mom stood out, though her occasional naivety was a bit off-putting.
The loyalty among their friends added another great layer. As always, Gia Cobie delivers top-tier romantic suspense and Mountain Champion doesn’t disappoint.