The Haunting Plot

Chestnut Mountain #4

by Mya More

Sometimes the only thing haunting you is love.

Raven

As a romance author, I know exactly how this story is supposed to go. Handsome older firefighter rescues struggling widow. Sparks fly. Happily ever after.

But I don't need rescuing. Not after losing my husband. Not after a house fire leaves my kids and me with nowhere to go. And definitely not from the handsome fire chief who keeps showing up convinced my temporary home is haunted.

The old Victorian is creaky, drafty, and a sensory nightmare for my son, but ghosts? Please. There’s a logical explanation for everything. Even if Sawyer insists otherwise.

Sawyer

I’ve never been good with women. Give me a five-alarm fire, and I’m fine. Put me in front of Raven Hawthorne, and suddenly I forget how to form complete sentences.

The brilliant, stubborn widow thinks I’m a moron for believing her house is haunted. I think she’s ignoring the increasingly obvious signs that the spirits don’t appreciate us tearing the place apart.

As strange incidents pile up, the tension heats up, and our banter turns into something neither of us can ignore. She may be busy trying to solve the mystery hauntings, but I’m focused on becoming her leading man in The Haunting Plot.

For readers that love:

- Single Mom (widow)
- Single Dad (divorced)
- Firefighter Chief
- Black cat/golden retriever
- Forced proximity
- Age gap (7 years)
- She’s Autistic/He’s ADHD

Genres: Romance, Halloween, Forced Proximity, Spicy, Firefighters, Rom Com

300 pages, Paperback

Published September 6, 2026

About the author

Mya has always had a passion for storytelling and has a background in theatre, film, and education. She lives in the Midwest with her husband and children. Her books are contemporary romance and rom coms with more heat, more humor, and more heart. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading, singing karaoke, playing mermaids in the pool, and doing puzzles.

Reviews

[Sim-fully Ever After]

4🌟 | 3🌶️

A house fire, a hot fire chief, ghosts, hilarious kids, and nonstop banter? This romance had so much personality from the very beginning.

The humor was absolutely my kind of humor, with plenty of moments that had me smiling and laughing, while the family chaos and more emotional parts gave the story some nice depth. The whole small-town fall atmosphere made it such a fun book to settle into.

Raven and Sawyer had a really fun dynamic. Raven’s sass paired perfectly with Sawyer’s patient, completely smitten energy, and watching him fall first and so hard was ridiculously cute. I especially appreciated how naturally they supported each other and their kids, with the neurodivergent representation feeling thoughtful and woven into their everyday lives. The kids, family, and returning characters brought even more warmth and chaos to the story.

And the spice definitely deserves a mention because this book went from cute and funny to very spicy very quickly. The chemistry, banter, family moments, and emotional layers kept the romance feeling full without taking away from the fun.

Add in the found family, small-town shenanigans, and some truly unforgettable moments, and this was such an entertaining addition to the series.

~~~~

A sincere thank you to Mya More and Luna Literary for the ARC! 🥰📚

I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨

[Jen Adams]

“I like when you’re mean. It makes me hard.”

Looking to kick off your fall reads? This is a great option. This romantic comedy balanced with real life issues just hits the spot. The humor, plot, pacing, characters and I can’t forget the vibes. I had the best time. House fire? Hot firefighter? Ghosts? It’s all a big win for me. And I don’t think anyone is writing humor like Mya; it’s definitely my cup of tea. I was either smiling or laughing and frankly I think we could all use a little more joy. But that’s not all. There’s emotional depth, realistic relatable characters and moments, and they are done so well. Pick this up for the great cover but stay for the Sir Slutty Mustache, a little dancing T-Rex action, a man sooo down bad, a firecracker widowed mom doing the damn thing, hilarious kids and chaos. All the chaos and all the heart. Found family. Real family. And love.

“I know touch is hard for you, but I want you to crave mine.”

Thanks for letting me beta read this, Mya. Happy release day!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🔥☄️

[Lisa Ann D.]

FIRST LINE:
"WHAT'S A TAINT?"
🎃

Single Mom
Single Dad
Forced Proximity
Firefighter Chief
Black Cat x golden Retriever
Romance Author FMC
🎃

SPICY CHAPTERS:
CHAPTER
14
CHAPTER
18
CHAPTER
20
CHAPTER
22
CHAPTER
23
CHAPTER 25
BONUS SCENE (DOWNLOAD)
🎃

"I KNEW KISSING YOU WOULD BE THE BEST DECISION I EVER MADE. I JUST DIDN'T KNOW IT WOULD FEEL THAT GOOD. Fvck.”
SOMETHING FLUTTERS IN MY CHEST
KNOWING HE FEELS THE SAME WAY I DO, BUT I HAVE TROUBLE GETTING THE WORDS TO FORM IN MY MOUTH AS I STARE INTO HIS EYES, BLINKING AT HIM.
"SAY SOMETHING, PLEASE," HE SAYS.
"I THINK YOUR PHONE IS POKING ME."
"YOU CAN IGNORE THAT. MY DICK GOT EXCITED THAT A PRETTY GIRL SAT IN MY LAP."
I DROP MY HEAD TO HIS SHOULDER, TRYING TO HIDE THE LAUGH HIS WORDS ELICIT.
🎃

Unfortunately a lot of this didn’t work well for me. It’s not bad but it simply wasn’t great either. I think it fell into the trap of trying too hard.
It’s fine. It’s okay.
Just not a standout.
🎃

[Dara Butler]

This book was hilarious!!! The spice was off the charts! Kink exploration, she’s a switch, praise, degradation, and pegging. It literally has everything!

Raven is a single mom. She’s autistic and she’s raising two children on her own after the death of her husband. Her son, Jonah is also autistic.
Sawyer is the town fire chief and he falls first and hard for Raven. He’s a divorced single dad raising two children. His son also has ADHD. The characters in this book and the representation featured were written so realistically. I love that Sawyer and Raven meet each other where they’re at. She helps him find accommodations for his ADHD, and he pays attention to the needs of her and her son. He anticipates and meets their needs before they ask. I can’t say enough good things about this book!

[Martina]

Welp, I finished this book... Look, the premise of this book is good. The execution isn't bad at all, either. The Halloween vibe is there. But, man, there was just something... Like, do you ever meet a person and instantly want to punch them in the face? They didn't do anything to you, they did nothing wrong, in fact, but something about them just rubs you the wrong way? That's how I felt about this book.

My experience when reading a book is strongly shaped by the characters in said book. These characters, they gave me nothing. The first 30%, I could barely stand Raven, and Sawyer was an annoying little shit for a good portion of the book. I didn't feel any chemistry between them until maybe 70% into the book. The side characters irked me too, especially RJ and Bella. Overall, Raven’s friends weren't being very good friends for a good portion of this book.

Now, what I can appreciate about this book is good neurodivergence representation. Both Raven and Jonah are written pretty realistically. I would also like to praise the ADHD representation in Sawyer and Tommy, and the way Raven stood up for Sawyer to his ex-wife. McKenna is a beautiful portrayal of a glass child, which brings me to my next topic—Raven’s parenting. We are told several times that Kris, Raven’s late husband, handled the parenting before his death, and Raven herself feels powerless when it comes to raising two kids on her own, especially a special needs kid like Jonah, but I felt the book lacked any instances of her actually parenting her kids. She seemed as an extremely permissive mom—I may not have children myself, but I have worked as a babysitter for a family with an AuDHD boy for almost two years, and while these kids need understanding, they also need discipline, as all kids do.

Thank you to Luna Literary for the eARC of this book!

[danie]

Thank you to Mya for the arc opportunity!

Mya does it again and I absolutely in love with Raven. I have been waiting for her story since the very beginning and my god was it worth the wait.

Raven and Saywer are literally perfection and the autism rep in this made me feel so seen.

Absolutely recommend this one to any and everyone, along with the whole series!

[Kassidy Dufault]

So as a whole I'm giving this story a 3 and I'm sorry about it. To me the FMC Raven was not a likeable character, she bullied and belittles the MMC Sawyer while simultaneously hating on his ex for doing the same thing and passing it off as her being on the spectrum and shielding herself. Its the kind of bully romance that may turn him on but turns me as the reader off. This story was advertised as a halloween/fall romance and I feel like it falls short there too, it mostly focuses on Ravens life as a widowed single mom, her relationship with autism and trauma with the occasional mention of the house possibly being haunted. The dick jokes in close proximity to childhood also felt kinda icky. I'm a mom to 3 boys myself and hear my fair share of butts, poop and penis talk but when the jokes are made in close proximity to kids it just feels kinda gross (the kids halloween costume being a rooster and the other mom continually refers to it as a cock costume felt icky.) Overall it was a quick read and I have read the Lucky list which has a similar vibe but with a much nicer FMC (and pretty much all the same characters just a different POV), it can be read as a stand alone or along with the other stories from the FMCs friend group. Also he got a tattoo of the drawings her kids did like a few weeks prior on his arm to show her how serious he is? Yikes that would be a red flag for me. And they share their first kiss after a breakdown from a possible home invasion? Like ????? Girl there could be a stranger hanging out in your house or ghosts or whatever and nows the time to have your first kiss??? Shouldn't you be worried about a squatter possibly sharing a home with your CHILDREN?

[C.J.]

This was a fun, spicy romance with plenty of family, humor, and emotional moments, but unfortunately, I really struggled to connect with Raven.

Sawyer was easily the highlight for me. He was sweet, patient, persistent, and absolutely adorable with his and her kids. I loved watching him become part of Raven and her children's lives, and the domestic family dynamic was one of my favorite parts of the book. His insecurities also added a nice layer to his character, and I appreciated seeing a hero who doesn't fit the typical six-pack romance stereotype.

There were some genuinely funny moments, great chemistry, and definitely no shortage of spice. The supporting characters also added a lot of personality, and I loved how much of a support system Raven had around her.

Unfortunately, Raven's character was where I struggled. I found myself frustrated with some of her decisions and reactions, particularly when it came to Sawyer. I wanted more communication and less denial at times, which made it difficult for me to fully invest in their relationship.

I also made the mistake of reading the author's note before writing my review. I really need to stop doing that because I don't want outside context to influence how I feel about a story. Knowing that many aspects of Raven are based on the author made me feel a little weird about not connecting with her. I really struggled to like Raven, and knowing that made me second-guess my reaction to the character more than I probably would have otherwise.

Overall, I enjoyed Sawyer, the family dynamic, the humor, and the spice.

Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for the ARC!

[Jessica]

Wow! My first Mya book and this one had me in my feels.

Tropes:
Plus size MC
ASD and ADHD rep
Age Gap (7years)
Light BD$M
P€gging
Black cat x Golden retriever
Forced proximity

Raven is 39 year old author/journalist raising 2 kids, her husband passed away a couple years ago. Her youngest has ASD, so parenting is a little more complex. Raven also has ASD.

Her son sets a fire and the fire department shows up. That’s when she meets Sawyer, the fire chief. A mid 40s divorced dad whom coparents. She is drawn to him, but doesn’t want to be. She calls him a moron 😂 little does she know he likes that, really really likes that. 😉

Sawyer is also drawn to her and doesn’t take no for an answer. Being a small town with mutual friends they are bound to be together in one way or another. Did I mention their kids are friends too?!


I loved the banter and Ravens personality. Creating 2 MC that needed each other without realizing they were missing something to begin with was beautiful. So much depth to their story and everyday life of the struggles. This book has emotion, plot and spice. I felt the emotions the characters were going through because of how Mya wrote them. I felt like I was right there with them. That spice was hot and Sawyer has a filthy mouth!!

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Abbie]

I read this book as a standalone (haven’t read any of the previous books of the series), and had no issues following along.

I loved Sawyers character throughout this book. He was such a gentle, good man. I struggled to connect with Raven. She was hilarious, I loved her comebacks and I completely understand the ‘not wanting to be touched’ aspect but it was confusing how sometimes it freaked her out and other times it was fine and then her complete 180 on how she felt about sawyer and how she went about it felt a little rushed. I feel like certain parts could have been shorter. Some of the spicy scenes I wasn’t a fan of so I skipped over those - it felt like they weren’t sincere intimate moments and more so thrown in to add the BDSM rec in there.

I loved how the book touched on McKenna and Jane being the ‘unseen’ children due to their siblings having louder needs. The small look into the daily life of someone with ADHD and also Autism was written so well and I love that the author disclosed why she has a close relationship with those diagnoses.

I received this book as an ARC and am leaving an honest review.

[Tyla 🧚 🗡️ ☠️ 🩸 🖤]

ARC 4.25 ⭐
I absolutely adored this book!
It had perfect humour in it, the banter between the two was absolute top tier. The autism & neurodivergent aspects in this book was done well. Maybe, SLIGHTLY overdone seeing as it was nearly all characters. But it was so well written, so nice to see how both FMC & MMC handled the situations. Plus size characters, author x fire fighter. I loved everhthing.
The spice in this came outta absolutely nowhere, it was cute it was funny then BAM. Hella spicy!! But the humour was still included which made it even better. I just love the sass on Raven, she’s such a diva. And Sawyer, oh my goddddd that man is divine. Don’t even ask me about his tattoo because I could burst into tears. Didn’t shade it so they could colour it in 😭😭😭😭😭😭 MY OVARIES.
I will most definitely be reading more from this author because I think I’m really gonna like her writing in more books.

[Lauren Curley]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 Stars
🌶🌶🌶 - Spice Level

This book was a great wrap up for the Chestnut Mountain Springs group of single moms and the firefighters they fall for. Raven was the last to fall. She's secretly a romance writer and had been meddling little with each of the previous matches in earlier books. Her life is far from fairytale and her own Austism coupled with her children's was overwhelming after her lavender husband had died.

She needs to renovate a townhouse to better accommodate everyone and chief volunteers even to the detriment of his own ego and pride. He's pretty smitten the first time he meets her. He loves the spunk, spitfire, and meaness vibes shes throwing his way.

I loved all the shenanigans, haunting experiences, and the kiddos from both Raven and Chief's previous relationships. Raven comes out of her shell because Chief is willing to let her be herself with time on his side.

I have so many highlights in this book for the laughs, the spice, and everything in between. I loved the return of cockies, the previous mom's with their matches, and the banter between everyone. My heart is full for this group.

Thanks Mya for the eARC!

Release Date: 9-10-26

[Kenny__Reads]

This is my first book by this author and I wasn’t disappointed! Raven & Sawyer gave us all the black cat x golden retriever energy while also establishing an emotional vulnerability throughout the story. Was there moments that made me cringe a little? Sure. But this is a fun spooky read that has our romance writer single mom and chief firefighter single dad coming together through a series of mishaps, sexy banter and undeniable chemistry all leading to an emotional connection born from seeing & accepting someone as they are! This has great representation for our neurospicy friends, giving a wide range of different experiences and understanding born from those around us willing to hear our needs! Loved this one and a great way to kick off my fall reading🖤

Thank you to Luna Literary for the early arc in exchange for an honest review!

[Shannon]

Thank you to Mya More for the eARC of The Haunting Plot, all opinions are honest and my own.

This was such a cute but funny romance read, I was laughing and gasping the whole way through. I would like Sawyer to build me a bookshelf with a rolling ladder please and thank you.

Some of the spicy scenes were not for me, and that’s okay - not everyone is into the same things! But they were spicy and spicy and wow I made some faces reading them 😮

One thing that really impressed me was the autism and ADHD rep - it’s really clear in the writing that the author drew on her own experiences. What really got me was the representation of the glass child - I was McKenna growing up. There’s one quote that really stuck out to me: “It’s hard having a sibling whose needs are louder than yours”

[Nicole Marie]

The Haunting Plot was such a fun mix of romance, grief, family, and just enough spooky mystery to keep me wondering what was actually happening in that house.
I really loved Raven as a heroine. She’s grieving, raising her kids, and trying to rebuild after losing so much, but she never feels like someone waiting around to be rescued. Sawyer, meanwhile, can handle a five-alarm fire but apparently not one beautiful woman, and his awkwardness around Raven was genuinely adorable.
Their banter and chemistry were easily some of my favorite parts, especially with Raven determined to find a logical explanation for everything happening in the house while Sawyer is fully convinced they have ghosts. The forced proximity and age gap worked really well for me, and I appreciated how naturally the family dynamics and representation were woven into the story.
It had the spooky atmosphere I wanted while still keeping the romance and emotional healing at the center. Sweet, funny, heartfelt, and a little haunted.

[The Book Ssirren]

Raven and Sawyer were too much lol. I had a blast with these two. A beautiful Victorian home that Sawyer thinks is haunted. Raven doesn’t buy it for one second. It all seems normal to her. A hot firefighter turned ghost hunter, and Raven that’s got logic for it all. These two and their back and forth was hilarious. Their banter had me laughing so hard. But their moments were a mix of sweet and spicy. I had the greatest time with this one. I can’t wait to read more.

[Nickole]

Rcvd an advanced reader copy from the author for giving my two cents.

We meet widower, mother of 2 and secret author Raven who ia in survival mode. A fire breaks out in thr back yard so she runs to put it out. The fire trucks roll out to assist when the fire chief Sawyer also Ravens brothers boss, puts his flirting to maximum speed on Raven. Sawyer is intrigued by this spitfire in front on him and has the need to poke the bear. Another fire makes their house uninhabitable at moment so Raven n kids move into the fixer upper. Ravens brother convinces Sawyer to help Raven out with jobs around the house since her son Jonah needs special things for his autism. Raven doesn't want me need Sawyers help after he offers. So her mom friends and brothers set out to help them along with way. Raven doesn't want to like Sawyer at all but he is a father or a special needa son as well snd he treats his and her kids with respect and it makes het like him a little more. Sawyer is out of his element with women and he really likes Raven. He is convinced her house in haunted 👻 close proximity, pranks, shirtless sweaty man, sexy book ideas and Ravem resenting her desire for Sawyer make this a good book.

[Karen Chan]

Once again Mya More has brought hilarity and deep feeling to emotional topics, while the empathy surrounding autism, ADHD, grief and plus size is just perfect. As a grandmother of an autistic grandson, the actions of Jonah and Raven are very real.
I love Raven's acerbic quips especially aimed at Sawyer the lovable but often clueless to how to deal with her.
Their first meeting is bittersweet as Jonah, Raven's autistic son sets fire to the swing to gain his mom's attention. In her rush to get outside she inadvertently sets fire to the house they had lived in with her gay husband who had died a while ago.
Moving into a house that needs renovating her brother RJ a rookie firefighter suggests his boss Chief Sawyer can help with the renovations.
The gang from the previous Chestnut Mountain Men series realise that Raven and Sawyer are made for each other, and set about a Haunting Plot, involving the couples children. So the hilarity and haunting begins, which Raven thinks are pranks Sawyer is playing. So she retaliates, the toilet prank is perfect.
As the work continues the families start to bond, the two girls find friendship both having to deal with special needs brothers, Autism and ADHD.
Eventually Raven starts to allow Sawyer into her life in all ways and they become adventurous. Her toy is based on him which he finds hilarious but when she buys him a toy that's when it is next level hilarious.
There is a scene with 5 firemen in rotation, a Dremel a Titanium ring and cool water that had me nearly falling off my chair.
When finally the plot is revealed poor Sawyer gets the blame and Raven is hurt and shouts at him, unfortunately Jonah hears her telling Sawyer he should leave and runs away with Tommy, Sawyers son. All is well, they are found and the resulting talk leads to a family decision that they are all excited about.
The girls group chat on the wedding day is so funny, Raven gets the last laugh.
A thoroughly lovely and very spicy read.

[Calla Hess]

Sawyer and Raven are perfect together and I love how much they love and support their kids! Fun quick read! I always love the sassy banter between the main characters and the group of friends in the Chestnut Mountain series 😍

[Jine]

This is my first book by Mya and it won’t be my last goodness gracious!!! So I don’t read a lot of MF it either has to be super dark or a cover draws me in! This cover gave me super cute Halloween vibes so I dived in! Oh my god it was so damn good! We have raven a recent widow single mom to two kids one Jonah who has autism raven herself is on the spectrum too! Jonah starts a small fire which the department has to
Show up and here comes sawyer with his dad jokes and flirting! The banter between these two I think was my favourite part! Sawyer was so damn determined to get her to like him and let him help with the repairs needed for Jonah’s comfort! I loved the little moments between Sawyer and Ravens kids how he listened to Jonah and helped with what he needed and how he knew McKenna needed some special attention too!
Sawyer is a divorced dad with two kids of his own one who has adhd!
He is determined to get raven to like him and his flirting! Sir! Is so spicy but cute AF I never giggled so much in my life!
Ravens friends know what she needs she can be prickly but when she likes someone she shows it in different ways like how she calls Sawyer a moron it’s a term of endearment for her!
What she doesn’t realize is that man will absolutely do anything for her! It takes her time to open up and accept
That someone likes her for all her quirks but she’s also what sawyer needs because she reassures him first of all about his body! She absolutely loves his belly and dad bod which is so refreshing to see in a book! Same with her body he worships all of her curves! But her standing up for him with his exwife who calls him lazy and unmotivated when really hes just like his son Raven figures it out but basically she thinks Sawyer has adhd like his son too!
The tricks and pranks this book did make me laugh I didn’t realize everyone else was in on them but when she reacted badly thinking her whole falling for sawyer was just a giant manipulation plot it was sad! I’m glad she was reassured quickly!
The spice was worth waiting for goooood mercy’ I mean little did she know she was playing with a replica of sawyers 🍆
I love how they blended their little families! It was what both of them needed so much! It was so so special!
Fav Quotes

I mean, he’s not bad to look at. A ridiculously charming smile that lights up his whole face each time he flashes it, exposing the wrinkles around his mouth. Light blue eyes that feel like he’s truly seeing me. I don’t like it. Wrapping my arms tighter around myself, I shake off the foreign sensations bubbling inside of me as I stare him down.

There’s nothing in my head except that stupidly handsome fire chief and his slutty little mustache.

Her eyes flick to mine, and I’m struck by how blue they are. Intense. Piercing. When this woman looks at me, it’s like I’m truly being seen for the first time.

“I called you because my house was on fire and you put out fires, you moron.” “See, was it so hard to admit you need me?” “You’re the last person I need or want.”

Don’t make a dirty joke about drilling her, Sawyer. Don’t do it.

She pushes past me, and her hand presses against my chest as she leaves the room. Ghosts may not be real, but the spark I feel at her touch definitely is

“Dick windows.”

the type of guy who thinks you’re God’s gift to women, when in reality every partner you’ve ever had was faking it.” “You want to test that theory?” “Oh, I bet you’d love that.” “Absofuckinglutely.”

Sir Slutty ’Stache is a moron.

Sawyer brightens. “You’re the pencil wizard!” Jonah tilts his head in confusion. “Tommy is terrible at names. He said there’s a kid who sits behind him who gives him a pencil every day. As soon as he turns around, this kid extends one to him like some kind of magical wizard.” “That’s me!” Jonah beams.

“Oh, I’m up for the job. I’d do anything for the pencil wizard. That kid has saved Tommy more times than I can count. He has ADHD and is always forgetting his pencils.”“I like it when you’re mean. It makes me hard.” I blink rapidly. “Did you mean to say that out loud?” “Absofuckinglutely.” “I don’t believe you.” “That I meant to say it or that I’m hard?” “Both.” “I’d be happy to show you.”

I get the feeling you’ll have strong opinions about all that, so pick what you want, and I’ll take care of the install for you.”

Why is that so sexy? He’s calling me out for being opinionated, yet instead of teasing me for it, he is accepting that this is who I am while allowing me to just be. “Okay.”

“I’m not good at this.” He waves a hand between us. “Talking to other adults? Yeah, I gathered that.” “I like you.”

“I know I shouldn’t. Not if we want to have a working relationship. But I haven’t stopped thinking about you since the fire. You should also know that I speak without thinking. I’m impulsive, and I’ll probably disappoint you. So I’m trying something different for once and putting everything out there up front. I want this job because I want to spend more time with you. If you hire me, I will show up for you, I will put in the work, and I will shamelessly flirt with you. And I’m not the least bit sorry about that last part.”

“My husband died a couple years ago. Heart attack. Sudden. The doctors called it a widowmaker.” “You shouldn’t like me. My life is messy, far more complicated than I’m willing to admit to a practical stranger. I get the initial appeal, but it’ll wear off. It always does. I’m rigid in my ways because I don’t know how else to exist. I’m skeptical. I’m logical to a fault because the black and white makes the most sense.” He turns and steps down so I can see his face as he grips the railing. “But the gray areas are where all the fun is.” “I don’t have time for fun.” “Everyone has time for fun.” “This is a bad idea.” He takes a step closer. “My parents died when I was ten. Car accident. Orphan maker.” I snort a laugh before slapping a hand over my mouth. “It’s okay, I have a dark sense of humor too. It’s my defense mechanism.

We want what’s best for our friend.” She pauses as if waiting for my reply. “And you think that’s me?” They all nod.

A small pang of disappointment lights up my chest when I realize he’s not getting in the ambulance with me. Fuck, I think I might like him.

“Why isn’t the big dumb idiot with the mustache coming with us?” “Said he was gonna hang back and wait on RJ. Never seen the chief so concerned about a patient before,” the EMT says knowingly.

“Why do firefighters all have mustaches?” “I don’t have a mustache,” RJ says over his shoulder. “Is it cuz you’re a baby firefighter?”

“I need to keep Mommy safe since I’m the man of the house.”

“You like my mom?” Jonah asks.

“I like you. I want to see more of you,” Jonah says. Well, fuck if that doesn’t hit me in the feels. “I think you’re pretty cool too.” “I know how to get my mom to like you.” “Thanks, kid, but I shouldn’t have told ya all that.” Jonah smiles, like he knows something I don’t. “That’s why I like you. You don’t treat me like a little kid. You talk to me like an adult. And so does my mom. That’s why she’ll like you.” “I talk to you like I do anyone else. I do the same with my kids.” “Some people talk to me like a baby, especially when they find out I’m autistic. They treat me like I’m dumb, but I’m smarter than most people.” “I’m sorry to hear that. And I’m confident you’re smarter than me.” “You’re really nice. My dad was nice. Mom deserves someone nice,” Jonah says.

“She wants your help. I heard her tell the moms,” Jonah adds.

“Fuck, wildfire, you smell edible.”

Goldfish and Cheez-its LOL

Sawyer clears his throat, and I realize I’ve been staring at his belly while my thoughts drifted. Unsure of what else to say since I’m not about to share that thought spiral, I blurt out, “I like your stomach.” “You do?” I don’t miss the surprise in his voice.

“Are we having cheese and crackers?” He wiggles his eyebrows. I turn down the hall, calling over my shoulder, “You wish.” I swear I hear him mutter, “I really fucking do.”

“How can I help?” For once, I don’t have the energy to fight him. “My room.” “You need help to your room?” I nod. He stands, bending over and picking me up. I’m shocked at how easily he’s able to lift me. I’m not a small woman. “Sorry, I know you don’t like to be touched,” he says as he maneuvers us down the hall. “Tighter,” I rasp, surprising myself.

“I’m here now. I’ve got this. I’ll happily fight your demons, gorgeous.”

“What am I missing?” Sawyer asks. “He calls you his ray of sunshine?

McKenna drops her eyes to the floor. “If it’s not too much trouble, can you build something for me?” she asks softly. I stare down at her, placing a hand on her shoulder. “I’d be honored to.”

“Good girl. So good for me. Keep breathing like that.”

“How badly do you want to please me?” “More than I want to take my next breath.” A smirk creeps up my cheek. “Be a good boy and stay in the truck. I need to grab something.”

“Are you finally ready to admit there’s something here? There’s nothing I wouldn’t do to keep that look on your face.”

“Well, you two have been spending a lot of time around each other.” Forced proximity? “And you act like you hate each other, but your banter is off the charts.” Enemies to lovers? “His playful energy is a nice balance to your pragmatic demeanor.” Opposites attract or black cat/golden retriever?

“You’re not weird.” “Oh, I am, and that’s okay. Everyone is weird to someone else—you just have to find your own group of weirdos. Kris was my kind of weirdo. You’re my kind of weirdo.” I stare at her like a lovestruck fool, thrilled by her claiming words.

“What do you expect me to do? She barges into my house like she belongs here, insulting Sawyer, who has done nothing but help me since I met him. She doesn’t see the man I do, and it pisses me off. I’m the only one allowed to make fun of him.”

“Don’t talk to him that way. Would you talk to Tommy that way?”“Excuse you? That’s different. Tommy’s a kid.” “A kid who is forgetful and scattered. Who can never remember a pencil for class. But he can’t help it. His brain is operating on a different system, and instead of criticizing him for constantly forgetting his pencil, you could just show up for him with a sharpened one every day.”

“Sawyer operates the same way. His brain is constantly running, making life-changing decisions on his job. Sometimes the pencils fall through the cracks. And it’s not because he doesn’t care about the pencils. He just needs a partner who understands that he’s never going to remember the pencils, and that doesn’t mean that he doesn’t care. He’s a good man.” I turn to her. “But if pencils are super important to you, he’s not the one for you because you’ll always equate his lack of pencils to a lack of caring about you.” I turn back to him, locking eyes with his. He’s got that goofy grin on his face, and I can’t help but smile. “But I don’t give a fuck about pencils.”

“You love me?” He turns me in his arms. “Shit. I did say that part out loud, huh?” “Yup. No takesie-backsies.”

“Raven, I love you so goddamn much it hurts. I think I knew the moment my lips touched yours in my truck after your panic attack. No one else has ever had this effect on me. Not physically. Not emotionally. I’m wholly and completely under your spell.”

There are no stipulations your beautiful brain could conjure that would change the way I feel about you. I love everything about you. Your loyalty, your heart, your snark, your logic. The way you advocate for the people you love. I’m not saying it’ll be easy. We’ll butt heads. I’ll get on your nerves, but no one in this world makes me feel as alive as you do. And I’m up for any adventure you throw at me, haunted or not.”

“Because I don’t see me the way you see me. I’ve spent most of my life trying to go unnoticed, trying to blend into the background.” “No offense, but you couldn’t do that if you tried.” His words make my skin tingle. “What?” “You’re fucking magnificent. I tried not to notice you, but it was impossible. You walk in a room and command it.” “That’s just the mask I wear. It’s the version of myself that I present to the world so they don’t perceive me incorrectly.” “Can’t take a compliment, huh?” “Shut up.” “Ray, you can spit all the fire you want at me, and I’ll happily drop to my knees and take anything you want to give me. But something tells me you don’t really want me to shut up. Do you, spitfire?” Shaking my head, I sigh. “I don’t.”

The tattoo made me bawl!!!

“This one is a flame like the one Jonah and I drew. There’s a butterfly. I took a picture after McKenna doodled it on me and asked him to make it identical. And I had Jane and Tommy draw designs too. Jane went with a heart, so that’s in her handwriting. And of course, the turtle is from Tommy. In his drawing, the turtle’s head looked like a dick, so I asked the artist to make it less phallic, but it’s pretty close to what he drew.” “And the wing?” “It’s a raven’s wing.” “Sawyer. This is⁠—” “My entire world in one tattoo.”

“You’re leaning on your forearm.” “I’m a big guy. I don’t want to crush you.” “You silly, silly man. I sleep with a weighted blanket for a reason. I want your full weight on me.” “Are you sure?”

“Yes, Chief.” A wicked smile teases his lips. “Good girl.”

“I know you don’t give this power lightly, that it takes a lot for you to trust someone like this. I’m gonna do my best to get this right.”

“What do you need?” “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I think I need you to cuddle me. I don’t normally need to be held, but it feels like my body wants yours. I don’t know how to explain it.” “Look at me, Ray.” His eyes are twinkling when I peer up at him. “I feel like I’ve been waiting my whole life to hear you say that.”

“Did you know that there’s scientific evidence that chickens are the closest living relatives of the T-Rex?”“Yup. I know! You should be a T-Rex for Halloween since I’m gonna be a chicken,” Jonah says as he walks over to me. Warmth blooms in my chest at his request, knowing the connection his brain is making. “Because you see me like a relative?” “Yeah. We’re a family. Right?” “Right.” He turns and runs down the hall as I blink back the emotions threatening to consume me.

What was once a cluttered guestroom with walls lined with dated wallpaper has been transformed into a writer’s dream. I spent many nights scouring Pinterest trying to design the perfect space for Raven to write.

Jonah asked me to be a T-Rex since they’re related to chickens, and he wants everyone to know that we planned our costumes together.” My breath catches in my throat. “He’s claiming you.”

“Raven, baby, I’m not going anywhere.” She buries her face against my chest, speaking against my shirt. “That’s a hard pass on baby.” “Fuck, I love you.” Her body stiffens, and her head tilts toward mine. “Even after everything I said?” “Especially after that. I told you; there’s nothing about you that scares me. And I’m sure the boys are around here. Don’t worry, I’ve got you.”

“What were you two thinking?” I ask. Tommy looks between us. “Jonah got mad, and he said he wanted to run away. He said our pranks didn’t work, and if they didn’t work, we couldn’t be a family. But he thought if we ran away, maybe you’d have to work together to find us.” My eyes flick to Sawyer’s, and he sighs, giving me a knowing look. “Is that true?” Jonah nods.

The wedding at the courthouse just the 6 of them absolute perfection!

[Sarah Marks]

Ok this guy one was special for me. As a fellow autism mom, I have never felt so seen in a book before it truly brought me to tears at the moments. Beyond that though this book was absolutely hysterical. Raven and Sawyer are so perfect for each other and I love not only do they talk about autism but ADHD and how it could be genetic and how the adult adults have coed with their own issues. Sawyer coming in with some of the most horrific Dad jokes was absolutely perfectly timed, but the way he cares for Raven and the way she stands up for him is what had my heart.

[Mariasha DiBenedetto]

I’m honestly struggling to put into words how much I absolutely adored this book. Mya More does it again, absolutely DELIVERING with this amazing story full of heart, heat, and the feeling of coming home.

I have been locked in for Ravens story since the very start of this series, and it was everything I could have wanted and so much more. One of the things I love most about More’s writing is that she really, truly encapsulates what motherhood is like. She somehow manages to show us both the overwhelming love and the overwhelming pressure that comes with the role of “Mom”. Raven not only has to navigate the challenges and ups and downs of parenting, but she’s been doing it through the loss of her partner and the pressure of neurodivergence in both herself and her son.

The way Autism and ADHD were handled in this book was so incredibly well done. The realistic representations are so important and reading how Raven has been navigating through it while never ever being ashamed and always advocating for herself and Jonah, as well as Sawyer and Tommy, was so refreshing and genuinely heartwarming. I also really appreciated the way panic and anxiety were handled. As someone who struggles with a panic disorder, the panic attack scenes were so intense, but also so accurate and I loved seeing how Sawyer locked in and found a genuinely realistic way to handle them and bring her out of it.

Raven is the definition of a Black Cat FMC, all sharp claws and prickly barbs, and when she met Sawyer, who’s actually the best Golden Retriever MMC I’ve ever seen, I KNEW it was gonna be amazing between them. Their banter was TOP TIER from literally the first chapter. I LOVED how he didn’t just accept her sharp tongue, he actually craved her particular type of hostile affection. This man was gone for her the moment she called him a moron 😂👏 He needed her no nonsense behavior to cut through his own insecurities and doubts just as much as she needed his goofy sunshine to light up her dark days.

I’d consider this a bit of a slow burn, but once the fire started….🥵🥵🥵 I literally swooned out of my seat, like genuinely fell to the floor during their first ‘scene’, it was so hot. Like CHIEF, you cannot be talking like that when I’m reading at 8:30 AM 💀🔥 Their chemistry was off the charts, I haven’t had to actually stop and fan myself in awhile but this book had me taking breaks like no one’s business. I adored the BDSM elements and how they were handled, including safe words, after care, and the discussion of boundaries (which from now I will need to see being done with one party in a T-Rex suit 😂😂😂)

Not only was this story packed with heart and heat, but oh my god I haven’t laughed this hard at a book in a MINUTE. The ridiculous chaos that is their friend group will never get old 😂 I was howling with laughter at the titanium scene, several of the pranks, and of course the ridiculous group chats (my personal favorite parts). The crazy family that these characters have created is just so funny and wonderful and I wish I could be a part of this type of PTO group so so bad.

I’m honestly a little devastated that the Chestnut Mountain series is coming to an end, I would gladly stay in this little town with these amazing people forever if I could. But that being said, I’m so grateful to have been able to experience this world that Mya More has created, and I look forward to reading more from one of my new favorite authors 💕

Thank you to Mya More for the opportunity to review this absolute masterpiece of an ARC, all opinions are my own and honestly given!

[Marian.]

Oh, este libro me encantó de principio a fin, está lleno de momentos divertidos, sexys y tan encantadores que puedo decir, se volvió uno de mis favoritos.

Decir que me lleve una grata sorpresa con este libro es poco ya que desde el capítulo uno te atrapa y te mantiene, Sawyer y Raven tienen una relación muy bonita, la química entre ellos fue hermosa y mucho más la relación que tenían con sus hijos, siento que eso fue una gran parte del porqué este libro me gusto tanto. Raven es nuestra escritora, aunque nadie sabe (más que su hermano) que es escritora de novelas románticas y Sawyer es nuestro bombero estrella y el que ayuda a Raven con las remodelaciones en su nuevo hogar. Digamos que primero no se llevaban tan bien pero vas viendo cómo se van acercando y enamorando.

Si bien entre bromas y casas que se creen embrujadas la historia fluye muy bien, no hay un gran drama entre los protagonistas y eso siempre lo agradezco, la inclusión de la neurodiversidad en este libro fue espectacular, lo sentí tan bien tratado y escrito y que fue un placer leerlo.

Un libro que para esta temporada spooky es una muy buena opción ya que NO da miedo, es mas cosillas que pasan que tienen una respuesta lógica como diría nuestra protagonista y está lleno de un romance lindo.

*******

Oh, I loved this book from start to finish, it’s full of funny, sexy, and lovely moments, so much so that I can say it’s become one of my favorites.

To say I was pleasantly surprised by this book is an understatement, from chapter one, it grabs you and doesn’t let go. Sawyer and Raven have such a lovely relationship; the chemistry between them was beautiful, and their bond with their children was even more so. I feel like that was a big part of why I loved this book so much. Raven is our writer though no one (except her brother) knows she writes romance novels and Sawyer is our star firefighter, the one who helps Raven with the renovations on her new home. Let’s just say they didn’t get along so well at first, but you watch as they grow closer and fall in love.

While the story flows smoothly between jokes and houses that are supposedly haunted, there isn’t a lot of drama between the main characters and I always appreciate that. The portrayal of neurodiversity in this book was spectacular; I felt it was handled and written so well that it was a pleasure to read.

This book is a great choice for this spooky season because it’s NOT scary, it’s more about little things that happen that have a logical explanation, as our protagonist would say and it’s full of a sweet romance.

📌 I received an e-arc, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.

[Kirsty]

RAVEN AND SAWYER!!! 😭😭😭

Raven is a widowed single mum, romance author and honestly just trying to keep herself and her kids going after losing her husband AND then having a house fire turn their lives upside down. She absolutely does NOT need some handsome older fire chief swooping in to rescue her… especially one who is convinced the Victorian house she’s temporarily living in is HAUNTED 😂

And then there is SAWYER.

THIS MAN. 🫠🔥

Fire Chief. Single dad. Golden retriever energy. ADHD. Completely capable of handling a five-alarm fire but put Raven in front of him and suddenly the man can barely string a sentence together 😂 I WAS OBSESSED WITH HIM.

The fact Raven is basically like “there are no ghosts, there is a logical explanation” while Sawyer is practically screaming THE HOUSE IS HAUNTED had me dying. Their banter was SO GOOD and watching all the strange little incidents keep piling up while these two were getting closer and closer was everything.

But underneath all the funny spooky moments there was so much heart too. Raven’s grief isn’t just magically erased because she meets Sawyer. She’s still a widow. She still loved her husband. She’s still trying to navigate being a mum and rebuilding a life she never expected to have to rebuild. I really loved that falling for Sawyer didn’t mean forgetting the love she had before him. 🥺

And I LOVED the neurodivergent representation!! Raven being autistic, Sawyer having ADHD and Raven’s son having sensory needs added so much to the story. Especially with this old Victorian house being basically a sensory NIGHTMARE for him. It made the characters feel so real and I loved seeing their different needs actually matter within the story.

AND THE FORCED PROXIMITY??? The age gap?? Single mum AND single dad?? Firefighter chief?? Black cat Raven x golden retriever Sawyer?? YES YES YES.

Sawyer wanting to become Raven’s leading man when she’s literally a romance author was just 😭😭😭 SIR PLEASE.

I loved watching Raven slowly let him in and Sawyer being completely gone for her. He might believe there are ghosts lurking around every corner but the biggest thing haunting that man was absolutely his feelings for Raven 😂

Romance + mystery + creepy Victorian house + hilarious banter + grief + family + neurodivergent rep + a completely smitten firefighter???

ABSOLUTELY DEVOURED IT.

I loved Raven. I loved Sawyer. I loved their kids. I loved the spooky chaos. I loved the romance. I NEED MORE.

[My Used Library]

Can Mya More write a book I don’t like? Honestly, I don’t think she can! Everything I’ve read from her has been an absolute favorite, and I especially love how relatable her stories are as a mother.

The Haunting Plot is the fourth and final book in the Chestnut Mountain series, and it follows Raven and Sawyer. Raven is the mom friend who keeps everyone on track while also being incredibly supportive of the people she loves. What her friends don’t know is that she has been secretly hiding a writing career of her own. She has also had a difficult few years after losing her husband and raising her son, who is on the autism spectrum.

When her son accidentally sets fire to her favorite writing spot in the house, Raven has to call the fire department, which leads to her meeting Sawyer. He is the fire chief and a divorced dad of two, one of whom has ADHD. As these two begin to get closer, they both have to work through the ghosts of their pasts and figure out if they are ready to let someone new into their lives.

One of my favorite things about this series is that each book revolves around a different holiday, and I absolutely love that! The Haunting Plot takes place around Halloween, which gave the story plenty of funny surprises and added such a fun element to the book. This is also one of the spicier books in the series, so make sure you check the trigger warnings before reading.

Another thing I really appreciated was the representation of parents raising children with disabilities, including autism and ADHD. As a parent of a child with ADHD, there were so many moments where I felt seen and understood by the way certain characteristics and experiences were portrayed. I really appreciated seeing those parts of parenting included in a romance story.

And of course, we have to talk about the friend group! They are seriously amazing. I have loved getting to know all of these women throughout the series, and their friendships are one of the things that made these books so special to me. If you haven’t started the Chestnut Mountain series yet, I really recommend starting from the beginning and reading all four books. They are full of romance, friendship, motherhood, and plenty of laughs, and I think each one is worth reading.

This was an easy 4 star read for me, and I cannot wait to see what Mya More writes next!

Thank you to Mya More and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read an ARC of The Haunting Plot.

[Charlene's Bookish Archives]

Ghostly, gorgeous, and gloriously heartfelt, the perfect cozy-spicy autumn romance!

Mya More delivers pure magic in this latest Chestnut Mountain gem! ✨ Raven is such a brilliant, refreshing protagonist, a sharp, pragmatic romance author, widowed single mom, autistic, fiercely protective of her son, and utterly convinced there are no ghosts in her creaky new Victorian. Just… drafts, creaks, and overactive imaginations. Enter Sawyer: gruff, big hearted fire chief, ADHD, quietly pining, and absolutely certain the house is haunted. Their dynamic? Chef’s kiss. She’s rolling her eyes; he’s pointing at every shadow; both are forgetting how to speak around each other. It’s equal parts hilarious and swoon-worthy! 🐈‍⬛🐕

The rep here feels so authentic and beautiful, Raven’s sensory needs, Sawyer’s impulsive earnestness, neither framed as a “flaw” but simply them, perfectly balanced. The single parent stakes hit deep, two people who’ve already loved and lost, building courage to try again for themselves and their kids. The ghostly mystery wraps around their growing bond like a warm blanket, strange noises, odd occurrences, all building that delicious forced proximity tension until they can’t deny what’s real anymore.

And Sawyer? Sighs. The man who’s brave in fires but a nervous mess around her? Everything. He doesn’t try to “fix” her, he meets her exactly where she is. And Raven? She doesn’t need rescuing, but she does need someone to stand beside her, believe in her, and help her believe in love again. That line “Sometimes the only thing haunting you is love”, hits so perfectly.

Cozy, spooky, steamy, and deeply tender, this is small town romance at its absolute best. If you love grumpy/sunshine vibes, found family, neurodivergent rep, firefighter heroes, and a love story that feels like coming home, drop everything and read this.

"She writes romance but doesn’t believe in ghosts. He believes in ghosts but doesn’t know how to say how much he loves her. Pure perfection." 🏚️❤️🔥

[Shayne]

Late Review but I still want to thank Luna Literary and Mya More for the ARC of The Haunting Plot :)

Raven and Sawyer were an absolute blast to read about... equal parts hilarious and swoon-worthy
Their dynamic was amazing! She's not worried about the new Victorian while he's on high alert with every little thing. Also, them forgetting how to speak when they are around one another is gold

Raven is a romance author who is a widowed single mom, autistic, protective of her son, who is convinced there's no ghosts in her new home

Sawyer is a grumpy, big hearted fire chief who has ADHD and is certain that the house is haunted, two opposite ends of the spectrum, how fun

The representation of these two was done extremely well. Raven's sensory needs and Sawyer's impulsive earnestness balanced each other out perfectly. Neither one of those were seen as flaws but just two people who have to go through life a little bit differently and that's okay

Single parent stakes were higher in this story because they've both already loved and lost so wanting a second chance at love for themselves and their kids was a really cool thing to see

The ghost mystery vibes were great for their bond because it felt like a warm hug. Odd and strange things happening here and there forces Raven and Sawyer's proximity to be close and in the end they can't deny that what they feel for one another is real

Sawyer... This is a man who fight fires for a living but around Raven turns into a nervous wreck, which is freaking adorable. Sawyer doesn't try to "fix" Raven, instead he meets her where she needs him. Raven doesn't need a knight and shinning armor, she just wants someone who believes in her, enter Sawyer

This is a really good read for the fall season/vibes. It's a cozy, emotional, and steamy small-town romance. If you are a fan of grumpy/sunshine, found family, neurodivergent representation, firefighter hero (YES!)... then this story is right up your alley

Thank you again to Luna Literary and Mya More for the ARC of The Haunting Plot :)

[Brittany Furnish]

****ARC READER REVIEW****

This book had me laughing, clutching my chest, and occasionally muttering “Raven, babe, please breathe” into the void. Mya More really said: here’s autism, ADHD, grief, plus‑size rep, and a haunted house prank war—good luck.

Raven’s son Jonah setting a swing on fire to get her attention? Bittersweet, chaotic, painfully real. Then she accidentally sets her own house on fire and suddenly she’s living in a fixer‑upper with her rookie‑firefighter brother dragging Chief Sawyer into the renovation like “here, fix this.” Sawyer is grumpy, confused, and absolutely not prepared for Raven’s acerbic one‑liners, which she fires at him like emotional dodgeballs.

And then the Chestnut Mountain Men show up and decide these two are soulmates, so naturally they orchestrate a full‑scale haunting plot using their children. Raven thinks Sawyer is pranking her. Sawyer thinks Raven is losing it. Raven retaliates with a toilet prank that had me wheezing.

Meanwhile the kids bond over having neurodivergent brothers, the families mesh, and Sawyer slowly becomes the safe place Raven didn’t think she’d ever get again. Their dynamic is chaotic tenderness with a side of “why is this house always one mishap away from a fire department visit.”

There’s a scene involving five firefighters, a titanium ring, a Dremel, and cold water that nearly sent me off my chair. I had to sit still and recalibrate my entire existence.

When the haunting plot is revealed? Raven is furious, Sawyer gets blamed, Jonah overhears and runs off with Sawyer’s son, and suddenly I’m sweating like I’m the one responsible for the emotional fallout. But the resolution? Beautiful. Healing. Family‑level heart squeeze.

And the wedding day group chat? Raven gets the last laugh and I ascended.

A hilarious, heartfelt, chaotic read that somehow balances neurodivergence, grief, love, and pranks with the grace of a flaming circus tent

[Kass]

The Haunting Plot is book four in the Chestnut Mountain series and is the story of Raven and Sawyer. This is a neurodivergent, black cat vs golden retriever, strangers to lovers, forced proximity, age gap romance.

Faced with damage to her house after a small fire, Raven must move into an old Victorian house that needs a lot of work to be suitable for her autistic son. Her brother suggests the fire captain who she met do the renovations but Raven does not like strangers in her space. Sawyer has been attracted to Raven since he met her at her house fire, with her sassy mouth and attitude. Raven fights Sawyer’s help but realizes she needs his help and she might be attracted to him too. Sawyer shows up to help Raven but as the projects get completed, he shows up more for her and her kids and Raven starts to feel safe with him. Weird events keep plaguing the remodel and Raven believes Sawyer is pranking her but his surprise is real and he thinks the house is haunted.

Mya has such a way with writing characters that you find yourself invested in. Raven and Sawyer both have a lot going on being single parents to their kids, one who faces challenges due to being neurodivergent. Overwhelmed with the daily struggle of being a single parent and making sure each child feels seen, loved and given the attention they need, Raven and Sawyer neglect their own needs.

The banter in this book will keep you laughing and cheering for Raven and Sawyer. Their chemistry is undeniable and Sawyer is full of green flags, always wanting to be the best for Raven and both of their kids. Both of them learn to come to terms with their neurodivergent tendencies and support one another in coping and becoming a successful team.

I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving an honest review as a show of my appreciation.

[Cassie]

✨️ARC✨️

This book really stood out to me because of the ASD representation. I absolutely loved how both Raven and her son were portrayed, especially seeing the experience from both sides. Raven is an Autistic adult raising an Autistic child, so the book gets into the realities of sensory struggles, challenges and the things that can make everyday life harder without ever turning their experiences into a “poor us” storyline.

Instead, there’s so much love, understanding and community throughout the story and I really appreciated that. Raven’s experience as a parent felt especially authentic, while her own Autism was treated as a part of who she is rather than something that needed fixing. The support and understanding between the characters was one of my favourite parts.

Then there’s Sawyer, who brought a completely different energy to the story. Their banter and chemistry were so much fun, especially with Raven being convinced there’s a logical explanation for everything while Sawyer is increasingly certain the house is haunted. Watching that scepticism turn into something more between them made for a really enjoyable romance.

I loved that the story managed to balance the romance, the mystery and the paranormal elements without losing the emotional side of the characters. Raven is strong, stubborn and perfectly capable of looking after herself and Sawyer never needed to swoop in and “save” her, he just tries his best to support her needs while being there for her in the best way he knows how. Their relationship felt much more like two people choosing to support each other than one needing to be rescued by the other.

The ASD representation was definitely the highlight for me but the romance, banter and haunted house mystery made this such an enjoyable read too. A really lovely story with representation that felt thoughtful, respectful and full of heart.

If you’re looking for a romance with genuine ASD representation, a strong heroine who doesn’t need saving, plenty of banter and chemistry, plus a little haunted house mystery thrown in, definitely add this one to your TBR.