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Mountains #1
Mountains Wanted
Dr. Sarah Lynde is an open-minded sexual adventurer. A sociology professor and single mother of two, she thinks she knows exactly what she wants, and it's not a relationship.That is, until she meets Army First Sergeant James McAllister, a handsome and intelligent ROTC instructor. Despite being from very different worlds, their connection is unlike anything she has ever experienced. Sarah knows she and James don't want the same things, but he's still a mountain she can't resist climbing. WARNING: Explicit Adult Content.
458 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 12, 2012
693 people are currently reading
1076 people want to read
About the author
Phoebe Alexander
57 books337 followersPhoebe Alexander writes #sexpositive #bodypositive erotic romance featuring compelling plots intertwined with passionate, fiery encounters. She believes that real, relatable characters can have even steamier sex than billionaires, rock stars, and the young and lithe-bodied. She also advocates for ethical non-monogamy through her writing.
Phoebe lives on the East Coast with her husband, sons, and multiple felines. When she's not writing, she works as an editor and consultant for indie authors. She also volunteers her time running a 3000-member indie author support group. Free time is her single greatest fantasy, and if she happens to have a moment she spends it at the beach, traveling, shopping or...wait, who are we kidding? That's about all she ever gets a chance to do.
Phoebe lives on the East Coast with her husband, sons, and multiple felines. When she's not writing, she works as an editor and consultant for indie authors. She also volunteers her time running a 3000-member indie author support group. Free time is her single greatest fantasy, and if she happens to have a moment she spends it at the beach, traveling, shopping or...wait, who are we kidding? That's about all she ever gets a chance to do.
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October 18, 2024FREE on Amazon today (9/7/2017)!
March 16, 2019
Too much inner dialogue and not actual action or dialogue.
November 6, 2017
I will never understand how anyone could have given this book a 5* review. It's one long babbling internal monologue about a woman's sexual preferences. The entire story is told in first person POV from Sarah's perspective. Maybe things would have been more interesting if we had some insight into James thoughts but thankfully, I will never know. I have no problem with sex or someone's sexual choices as long as it's among consenting adults however this book drags on about Sarah's choices until I was ready to scream "Enough!" I downloaded the book for free on Amazon and I only wish that I could get the day back that I spent reading this drivel. The trilogy of all the books was on sale for .99 and I would not even consider spending that or the torture to see where these two people end up. The only reason that I am leaving a review on this book is so I can warn others about how truly boring and over dramatized it is. If this is what someone considers Erotica, then they are clearly reading the wrong books.
February 12, 2013
Reading this book was like spending the day catching up with your best friend. The author's familiar tone and internal monologue were so relate-able. I'm not a big fan of erotic fiction so I skimmed those parts, but still the story drew me in. I really found myself caring about all of the characters and found them all to be very believable. Every person has flaws, good sides and bad sides; no one is just the villain or just the heroine. Would highly recommend this book to anyone.
May 28, 2017
Arrgh!!! The heroine is drowning in self pity and hoping to entice her reader into buying the second book because she keeps harboring the little spark of hope that her lover will abandon his fiancee for him. But after joining this couple on the emotional roller coaster I have had enough.
April 6, 2021
Too much dumb details, boring reading.
June 4, 2021
Mountains Wanted is book one in the Mountains series by Phoebe Alexander. I fell instantly and completely into this story. With an open mind and a burning desire, I devoured Mountains Wanted. Absolutely devoured it. I loved every aspect of it. The characters were the complete package. I envied Sarah her confidence and her alluring personality. She was not afraid to share her opinion and was comfortable in her own skin. It was a pleasure getting to know her. She was a a breath of fresh. And totally unique. James is a gorgeous military man that really raised my heartbeat and my imagination. His enigmatic energy was additive and I could not get enough. Together they were electric.
Mountains wanted was a super sexy and alluring read. Super sensual and utterly delightful. Phoebe Alexander always supplies a dramatic and titillating story. She never disappoints and just keeps getting better. 5 sexy stars.
Mountains wanted was a super sexy and alluring read. Super sensual and utterly delightful. Phoebe Alexander always supplies a dramatic and titillating story. She never disappoints and just keeps getting better. 5 sexy stars.
June 13, 2021
If I could give a million stars I would, I LOVED LOVED LOVED this book!!!! It was definitely a book I could not put down. Dr. Sarah Lynde's character is strong and bad azz in many ways. She is a provider to her two children and balances being a professor. When she meets Lt. James McAllister at her speaking engagement, I knew there would be sparks. Boy oh boy was I right. The story unfolds when they get together there is so much sizzling heat. James is torn between what he wants and what is right in front of him. There are many ups and downs between James and Sarah when it comes to matters of the heart and feelings. What does James? You will have to read and find out. The ending....AHHHH ... I need book 2 ASAP :).
February 5, 2020
4 Stars
Mountains Wanted is the first book in the Mountains Trilogy by Phoebe Alexander. It is a though provoking, wonderfully written, erotic contemporary romance.
This is the second time I have read this book, and have enjoyed it just as much as the first time. It is really well written, intriguing, passionate, erotic, funny, emotional, educational and entertaining. And once again, I was drawn into the story, investing in these characters and the outcome of it all.
This is a great start to a wonderful series, and while this book doesn’t have a cliff-hanger, as such, it does continue into the next book.
Thank you, Phoebe Alexander!
Mountains Wanted is the first book in the Mountains Trilogy by Phoebe Alexander. It is a though provoking, wonderfully written, erotic contemporary romance.
This is the second time I have read this book, and have enjoyed it just as much as the first time. It is really well written, intriguing, passionate, erotic, funny, emotional, educational and entertaining. And once again, I was drawn into the story, investing in these characters and the outcome of it all.
This is a great start to a wonderful series, and while this book doesn’t have a cliff-hanger, as such, it does continue into the next book.
Thank you, Phoebe Alexander!
February 4, 2020
love the way this book reads. You instantly get attached to Sarah her character is so relatable. I love Sarah's relationship with her friend Rachel it awe inspiring and makes you feel jealous at the same time. James omg i can see him in front of me he's the dream man. Oh man i blush reading this book it's a pure dream to read Phoebe has excellence herself with her descriptive writing. What am ending I've got to know what happens next. You find yourself at awe and needing to know more about Sarah's relationship.
February 22, 2020
Just the absolute best story. It had me captivated from the beginning with the hot steamy scenes. I really enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it! Everything I like to read about and more. Such a great story I will read again and again. A keeper!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2021
This was a great start to a new series, the blurb really made me want to read this and it quite honestly did not disappoint. Really liked Sarah and James relationship the slow burn and the angst was there and honestly, it was written great. Did not expect the ending and I can't wait to read the next book and find out what happened.
January 7, 2015
Sarah is a 36 year old Professor of Sociology that meets James,a 29 year old ROTC instructor, during a discussion on gays in the military. They're attracted to one another and begin a relationship of sorts, but due to her views on sexuality its more of an "open" relationship. Sarah's never wanted another serious relationship since her failed marriage and James is a bit gun shy also after is own failed marriage and tours in Afghanistan. There's lots of discussions about their "status" and its hard to pin it down. It's interesting read the process their relationship goes through. Lots of real human emotion and dynamics of relationships going on here, along with some very explicit sexual situations.
"Mountains Wanted" is my first book by Phoebe Alexander and I found it to be an enjoyable read. The subject matter may not be everyone's fave but it's well written and worth the time it takes to read it. There are real relationships that are like Sarah's and James even if we don't know who they are. The way this story reads is like it's from the authors own life instead of a fictional read. There are some heartrending moments that you pray all works out in every ones favor, and some amusing moments with her crazy bestie.
18+ due to adult situations and relationships.
My rating is 4.5 stars
"Mountains Wanted" is my first book by Phoebe Alexander and I found it to be an enjoyable read. The subject matter may not be everyone's fave but it's well written and worth the time it takes to read it. There are real relationships that are like Sarah's and James even if we don't know who they are. The way this story reads is like it's from the authors own life instead of a fictional read. There are some heartrending moments that you pray all works out in every ones favor, and some amusing moments with her crazy bestie.
18+ due to adult situations and relationships.
My rating is 4.5 stars
January 12, 2020
What a beautiful book!!
First, I loved how liberated Sarah is. I love reading about women who are sexually free and who don't constantly belittle themselves or have socially-ingrained thoughts of being sluts just because they have a sex life.
This book is deeply feminist and I love that! Too many romance books written for women keep telling us we are sluts for wanting men!!!
I liked that this book brought up Don't ask, don't tell. That was interesting.
And I thought it was beautiful how this book portrays Sarah's love in a relationship that differs from what society has taught us that a relationship should be.
Sarah wants to be with James, but her vision of what a relationship is differs from what he has been told it should be. And just because society defined for us what a relationship is doesn't mean Sarah's feelings or needs are wrong.
Will James open his mind to a different horizon? I guess we will see.
First, I loved how liberated Sarah is. I love reading about women who are sexually free and who don't constantly belittle themselves or have socially-ingrained thoughts of being sluts just because they have a sex life.
This book is deeply feminist and I love that! Too many romance books written for women keep telling us we are sluts for wanting men!!!
I liked that this book brought up Don't ask, don't tell. That was interesting.
And I thought it was beautiful how this book portrays Sarah's love in a relationship that differs from what society has taught us that a relationship should be.
Sarah wants to be with James, but her vision of what a relationship is differs from what he has been told it should be. And just because society defined for us what a relationship is doesn't mean Sarah's feelings or needs are wrong.
Will James open his mind to a different horizon? I guess we will see.
September 8, 2014
Okay so I read this a while ago and just re read it! I don't know why I didn't come on here and give a review in the first place, I only wrote my review on the authors web page! So I'm going to write it now ! Seriously loved the book! Couldn't put it down and I just wanted more! I hope the author is still planning on making a seconded book! Because I don't think i can wait to much longer to find out some things! I loved how the characters were older ! And loved all the hot sex! This book is a great read!!!
June 4, 2017
I found myself barely enjoying this book. I read it to the end because I wanted to see what happens. But I skimmed through paragraphs and paragraphs at once because the dribble Drabble was to much for me to bother with. At first I read word for word until 40% and then the skimming started,reading only through the main parts. I would like to know what happens in the second book but not enough to pay nor bother read it.
March 23, 2017
Loved the story, but hate it when you go and make one book into two,three or four more books just so you can make more money. Senior citizens don't have that kind of money to spend.
Loved the book, but hate it when you take one book and make it into two, three or four more books just so you can make more money. Senior citizens don't have that kind of money to spend.
Loved the book, but hate it when you take one book and make it into two, three or four more books just so you can make more money. Senior citizens don't have that kind of money to spend.
February 23, 2017
Mountains Wanted by Phoebe Alexander
4 Stars Review
Phoebe Alexander is a phenomenally talented author who invites us into a fantasy world that most only dream of. Her very descriptive writing gives us a great understanding of her characters and the scenes unfolding. This book is sexy, fierce, kinky, and absolutely filled with passion. Mountains wanted is the first book in the Mountains Trilogy and is a definite must read. I can’t wait to read the sequel Mountains Climbed.
Mountains Wanted is a four star book. It’s an unconventional story about a woman named Sarah Lynde. Sarah is a Sociology professor and a single mom of two. She is definitely not as she would appear. She is a woman with strong sexual beliefs, loves a good one-night stand, and doesn’t believe in monogamous relationships. She is an incredibly intelligent woman who’s very driven and has lots of passion.
Sarah meets James at an after school seminar, she instantly finds herself attracted to him. James is a younger man in his late 20’s who’s shy, quiet, sexy, and mysterious. After getting his number they meet up and being the woman that Sarah is she doesn’t beat around the bushes and asks James to be friends with benefits. James accepts. And what a fabulous decision that that was for us, their sex life is seriously hot!
Sarah and James continue their friends with benefits relationship, it’s everything she wanted and more. Being a multi partner kind of gal she starts seeing Pawel, who also happens to enjoy open relationships. Pawel and James are complete opposites, while James is sexy and mysterious; Pawel is more open and throws off a nerdy sexy vibe.
Sarah is used to being in open relationships she can’t seem to feel that things are different with James. She finds herself comparing Pawel to James and often, something she normally doesn’t do with her partners.
After months of seeing both men, Sarah still feels a bit defeated about James. She’s very connected to him physically but can’t seem to reach him emotionally. After much debate Sarah still can’t decide if she wants to continue being with James or to end it before he breaks her heart.
After learning that James is leaving Sarah decides to tell him how she’s really feeling about him and lays it all out on the line. James the ever-mysterious man doesn’t give us much about what he’s feeling. Now it’s up to him to decide if he wants to stay with Sarah or to try and lead a more traditional life. Will their relationship be over before it really began?
4 Stars Review
Phoebe Alexander is a phenomenally talented author who invites us into a fantasy world that most only dream of. Her very descriptive writing gives us a great understanding of her characters and the scenes unfolding. This book is sexy, fierce, kinky, and absolutely filled with passion. Mountains wanted is the first book in the Mountains Trilogy and is a definite must read. I can’t wait to read the sequel Mountains Climbed.
Mountains Wanted is a four star book. It’s an unconventional story about a woman named Sarah Lynde. Sarah is a Sociology professor and a single mom of two. She is definitely not as she would appear. She is a woman with strong sexual beliefs, loves a good one-night stand, and doesn’t believe in monogamous relationships. She is an incredibly intelligent woman who’s very driven and has lots of passion.
Sarah meets James at an after school seminar, she instantly finds herself attracted to him. James is a younger man in his late 20’s who’s shy, quiet, sexy, and mysterious. After getting his number they meet up and being the woman that Sarah is she doesn’t beat around the bushes and asks James to be friends with benefits. James accepts. And what a fabulous decision that that was for us, their sex life is seriously hot!
Sarah and James continue their friends with benefits relationship, it’s everything she wanted and more. Being a multi partner kind of gal she starts seeing Pawel, who also happens to enjoy open relationships. Pawel and James are complete opposites, while James is sexy and mysterious; Pawel is more open and throws off a nerdy sexy vibe.
Sarah is used to being in open relationships she can’t seem to feel that things are different with James. She finds herself comparing Pawel to James and often, something she normally doesn’t do with her partners.
After months of seeing both men, Sarah still feels a bit defeated about James. She’s very connected to him physically but can’t seem to reach him emotionally. After much debate Sarah still can’t decide if she wants to continue being with James or to end it before he breaks her heart.
After learning that James is leaving Sarah decides to tell him how she’s really feeling about him and lays it all out on the line. James the ever-mysterious man doesn’t give us much about what he’s feeling. Now it’s up to him to decide if he wants to stay with Sarah or to try and lead a more traditional life. Will their relationship be over before it really began?
February 10, 2017
Mountains Wanted (Mountains Trilogy Book 1) by Phoebe Alexander is the first book in the Mountains Trilogy. This story has passion, friendship, and emotion in it. This story is about what happens when you are not looking for love but sometimes fate will disagree with you. You will find yourself relating to the characters in this story. They will pull you into a world of passion like none other. Find out just how steamy these characters really get!
Dr. Sarah Lynde is a single mother of two and a sociology professor. She thinks that she has everything planned out but knows one thing for sure she doesn't want a relationship. She is an open minded sexual adventurer that doesn't have the typical life style. What happens when she meets him? Is the a connection right away? What happens when they develop a friendship? Will he accept her life style? Will she change her mind about needing a relationship?
James McAllister is a First Sargent in the Army who works as an ROTC instructor. He is intelligent and differently handsome. He seems to be lost and doesn't really know what he wants. Will she show him how wrong he is? Will she open his mind up to a whole new world? The one thing he does seem to know, is that he wants her. What will he do to be with her?
Sarah and James's story is not your typical relationship. They are from two different worlds but there is a connection that can't be denied. Will they try to deny it? They don't seem to want the same things out of life. How will this effect their relationship? Will they convince each other that they really are not that different? What does fate have in store for these two?
This is my first story by Phoebe Alexander. Phoebe lives in Washington D.C. With some encouragement from her partner and blog readers, she published first novel and hasn't looked back since. She believes that real relateable characters can have steamier sex then the rock stars, billionaires, and the hot bodied. This story is a fast page turner that you will lose yourself in. Before you know it, you will have read the entire book. This story will leave you wanting more and can't wait for the next one to come out. I highly suggest this story as I know that you will love reading it as much as I have.
Dr. Sarah Lynde is a single mother of two and a sociology professor. She thinks that she has everything planned out but knows one thing for sure she doesn't want a relationship. She is an open minded sexual adventurer that doesn't have the typical life style. What happens when she meets him? Is the a connection right away? What happens when they develop a friendship? Will he accept her life style? Will she change her mind about needing a relationship?
James McAllister is a First Sargent in the Army who works as an ROTC instructor. He is intelligent and differently handsome. He seems to be lost and doesn't really know what he wants. Will she show him how wrong he is? Will she open his mind up to a whole new world? The one thing he does seem to know, is that he wants her. What will he do to be with her?
Sarah and James's story is not your typical relationship. They are from two different worlds but there is a connection that can't be denied. Will they try to deny it? They don't seem to want the same things out of life. How will this effect their relationship? Will they convince each other that they really are not that different? What does fate have in store for these two?
This is my first story by Phoebe Alexander. Phoebe lives in Washington D.C. With some encouragement from her partner and blog readers, she published first novel and hasn't looked back since. She believes that real relateable characters can have steamier sex then the rock stars, billionaires, and the hot bodied. This story is a fast page turner that you will lose yourself in. Before you know it, you will have read the entire book. This story will leave you wanting more and can't wait for the next one to come out. I highly suggest this story as I know that you will love reading it as much as I have.
June 14, 2021
Mountains Wanted (Mountains Series #1) by Phoebe Alexander
4 out of 5
Mountains Wanted by Phoebe Alexander is a delicious, emotional ride through finding love in the least expected places. Dr. Sarah Lynde is a professor and single mom. Sarah, through her friendship with Rachel, discovered a love of sex and isn’t afraid to go after who she wants.
Sarah meets 1st Sgt. James McAllister at a panel discussion on gays serving in the military. James is everything that Sarah could want in a partner, tall, strong, sexy, intelligent. And, a few things she doesn’t, poor at communicating, looking at redeployment. The connection Sarah and James share is unlike anything Sarah has felt before. When Sarah offers James the chance to be friends with benefits, James quickly agrees. What happens when Sarah wants more? Is James willing to change the nature of the relationship?
Sarah is a single mom of two kids who she is trying to raise with the help of her mother and her best friend. Sarah’s ex decided, Daniel, to disappear 3 years ago. Sarah helped the kids pick up the pieces and move on. Abby is now 15 going on 40. Abby faces decisions about relationships and adolescence with wisdom beyond her years. Owen is 10 and enjoys asking sex education questions to annoy his sister. Owen has a heart as big as the Rocky Mountains. Now Daniel has emerged with a new wife and son and wants back into the kids’ lives. Will Sarah be able to hold all the pieces together?
James is finding his way in Sarah’s world. James doesn’t know if Sarah’s world is where he fits. He knows he wants a wife, kids, a family some day. He thinks he is just about ready to go for it but is facing deployment, again. A decision has to be made. Is James willing to look for the family he wants with Sarah? Is there a place for Sarah in James’ life when he gets back from deployment?
Phoebe Alexander takes you and your emotions through all the peaks and valleys. It’s a wicked climb! I can’t wait for the rest of the series to find out where life takes Sarah and James.
This book includes descriptions of a polyamorous lifestyle and may not be for all readers.
4 out of 5
Mountains Wanted by Phoebe Alexander is a delicious, emotional ride through finding love in the least expected places. Dr. Sarah Lynde is a professor and single mom. Sarah, through her friendship with Rachel, discovered a love of sex and isn’t afraid to go after who she wants.
Sarah meets 1st Sgt. James McAllister at a panel discussion on gays serving in the military. James is everything that Sarah could want in a partner, tall, strong, sexy, intelligent. And, a few things she doesn’t, poor at communicating, looking at redeployment. The connection Sarah and James share is unlike anything Sarah has felt before. When Sarah offers James the chance to be friends with benefits, James quickly agrees. What happens when Sarah wants more? Is James willing to change the nature of the relationship?
Sarah is a single mom of two kids who she is trying to raise with the help of her mother and her best friend. Sarah’s ex decided, Daniel, to disappear 3 years ago. Sarah helped the kids pick up the pieces and move on. Abby is now 15 going on 40. Abby faces decisions about relationships and adolescence with wisdom beyond her years. Owen is 10 and enjoys asking sex education questions to annoy his sister. Owen has a heart as big as the Rocky Mountains. Now Daniel has emerged with a new wife and son and wants back into the kids’ lives. Will Sarah be able to hold all the pieces together?
James is finding his way in Sarah’s world. James doesn’t know if Sarah’s world is where he fits. He knows he wants a wife, kids, a family some day. He thinks he is just about ready to go for it but is facing deployment, again. A decision has to be made. Is James willing to look for the family he wants with Sarah? Is there a place for Sarah in James’ life when he gets back from deployment?
Phoebe Alexander takes you and your emotions through all the peaks and valleys. It’s a wicked climb! I can’t wait for the rest of the series to find out where life takes Sarah and James.
This book includes descriptions of a polyamorous lifestyle and may not be for all readers.
February 5, 2020
Mountains Wanted (Mountains Series Book 1) by Phoebe Alexander
4 of 5 Stars
Dr. Sarah Lynde is a University Sociology Professor and a single mum to a teenage daughter and younger son. Having given a speech one evening at a ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Panel event’ Sarah meets Army First Sergeant James McAllister. They both feel some chemistry but neither one is looking for a relationship and so agree to being friends, with benefits. However the more they see of each other the more complicated their feelings for one another become and they start to wonder if they could ever have more of a relationship than just meeting each other’s needs.
This is a romance with a difference, it is not your usual ‘normal’ committed and monogamous relationship but something a bit more complex but just as real. I love the main characters of Sarah and James, and how their relationship develops during the story and how honest the characters are about their feelings and their more open relationship based on great sex.
The book states it is for 18+ and the sex scenes are ‘hot’ and explicit but are part of the overall romance between Sarah and James. I love the fact that the main character, Sarah is a modern obviously intelligent Dr as well as a working single Mum who is not ashamed that she likes sex. It is refreshing to read a book in which the women isn’t afraid to go after the man she wants and lay down her terms, basically sex but with no commitment, at least that is what Sarah wanted at the beginning of her relationship with James.
I read this book in big chunks as I could not put it down and even when I wasn’t reading it I was thinking about the storyline, always a sign of a good book. This is a modern romance with likeable and realistic characters, which portrays ‘real’ women and has a great storyline to follow as well as scorching sex scenes, what’s not to love!
I’m looking forward to continuing Sarah and James story in Mountains Climbed and Mountains Loved.
4 of 5 Stars
Dr. Sarah Lynde is a University Sociology Professor and a single mum to a teenage daughter and younger son. Having given a speech one evening at a ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Panel event’ Sarah meets Army First Sergeant James McAllister. They both feel some chemistry but neither one is looking for a relationship and so agree to being friends, with benefits. However the more they see of each other the more complicated their feelings for one another become and they start to wonder if they could ever have more of a relationship than just meeting each other’s needs.
This is a romance with a difference, it is not your usual ‘normal’ committed and monogamous relationship but something a bit more complex but just as real. I love the main characters of Sarah and James, and how their relationship develops during the story and how honest the characters are about their feelings and their more open relationship based on great sex.
The book states it is for 18+ and the sex scenes are ‘hot’ and explicit but are part of the overall romance between Sarah and James. I love the fact that the main character, Sarah is a modern obviously intelligent Dr as well as a working single Mum who is not ashamed that she likes sex. It is refreshing to read a book in which the women isn’t afraid to go after the man she wants and lay down her terms, basically sex but with no commitment, at least that is what Sarah wanted at the beginning of her relationship with James.
I read this book in big chunks as I could not put it down and even when I wasn’t reading it I was thinking about the storyline, always a sign of a good book. This is a modern romance with likeable and realistic characters, which portrays ‘real’ women and has a great storyline to follow as well as scorching sex scenes, what’s not to love!
I’m looking forward to continuing Sarah and James story in Mountains Climbed and Mountains Loved.
June 3, 2021
This was my first Phoebe Alexander book and my first read about swingers/open marriages and relationships. I’m not 100% sure how I feel about the book because I truly enjoyed getting to know Sarah and her family, but I also found aspects of the book extremely frustrating and hard to believe. I guess I will share what I liked and then what I wasn’t so excited about. I personally love people watching/Sociology/the study of behaviors and cultures so for me that part of Sarah’s life was incredibly interesting. I loved her willingness to be open about her life and choices with her kids, friends, lovers, etc. because it made her a much stronger, more developed character in my opinion. I personally wouldn’t want an open relationship, but the concept doesn’t bother me at all, and I enjoyed reading about Sarah’s experiences of being with who she was attracted to. I also loved the fact that the main heroine is in her late thirties, with kids, AND a little curvy to boot, it just made it so relatable!! Alexander is a gifted world-builder and has great character development skills, so that is always a huge plus!
Now for the part, I didn’t enjoy as much, the steam with James is fan-freaking-tastic, but I just couldn’t understand the absolute lack of basic communication between the two of them. In my mind, there is nothing “open” about having zero real talk, and it just made Sarah a beck and call girl, in my opinion, which tainted my feelings for James as the leading man. Since the whole story is first-person POV from Sarah, we don’t know what James was thinking. In the end, good sex just wouldn’t be worth it for me.
So, I guess what I’m trying to say is, YOU may love this book if open relationships, some interesting characters, and good steam are what you are looking for, I just couldn’t dive all the way in with Alexander on this one.
Now for the part, I didn’t enjoy as much, the steam with James is fan-freaking-tastic, but I just couldn’t understand the absolute lack of basic communication between the two of them. In my mind, there is nothing “open” about having zero real talk, and it just made Sarah a beck and call girl, in my opinion, which tainted my feelings for James as the leading man. Since the whole story is first-person POV from Sarah, we don’t know what James was thinking. In the end, good sex just wouldn’t be worth it for me.
So, I guess what I’m trying to say is, YOU may love this book if open relationships, some interesting characters, and good steam are what you are looking for, I just couldn’t dive all the way in with Alexander on this one.
June 15, 2021
5/5 Stars
Mountains Wanted (Mountains Series Book 1) by Phoebe Alexander
This isn't the first book by Alexander I've read. This new series is great and I loved every minute of it. Mountains Wanted is the first book in the Mountain Series.
Sarah is a single mom to two wonderful kids. Meeting James at a sub place she couldn't keep him off her mind. When she meets him again a few days later things change. The quote I chose for Sarah is: “With all due respect, let’s say your life is on the line in the heat of battle. Would you rather have a gay soldier who is one hundred percent focused and loyal to his fellow soldiers by your side, or a straight soldier whose mind is nowhere near the battlefield? The truth of the matter is people have the ability to be professional and put their recreational and sexual desires aside when needed. This ability has absolutely nothing to do with sexual orientation. It has everything to do with integrity and work ethic.”
James is home for good. He's teaching ROTC and encourages his students to attend Sarah's lecture. When he meets her one on one he can't keep her off his mind. The quote I chose for James is: “Being deployed in a war zone, it’s obviously not like everyday life. In order for the men to stay focused, accomplish their missions and stay alive, it requires—more than anything else—mental discipline. If an individual loses focus and doesn’t see something they ought to have seen, it may not only get them injured but the person next to them as well. It’s imperative to keep distractions to a minimum. It’s focus and discipline that make the difference between frightened boys and professional soldiers who get the job done. That’s also why drinking and sex are discouraged while deployed.”
Highly recommended for Contemporary Romance lovers.
Mountains Wanted (Mountains Series Book 1) by Phoebe Alexander
This isn't the first book by Alexander I've read. This new series is great and I loved every minute of it. Mountains Wanted is the first book in the Mountain Series.
Sarah is a single mom to two wonderful kids. Meeting James at a sub place she couldn't keep him off her mind. When she meets him again a few days later things change. The quote I chose for Sarah is: “With all due respect, let’s say your life is on the line in the heat of battle. Would you rather have a gay soldier who is one hundred percent focused and loyal to his fellow soldiers by your side, or a straight soldier whose mind is nowhere near the battlefield? The truth of the matter is people have the ability to be professional and put their recreational and sexual desires aside when needed. This ability has absolutely nothing to do with sexual orientation. It has everything to do with integrity and work ethic.”
James is home for good. He's teaching ROTC and encourages his students to attend Sarah's lecture. When he meets her one on one he can't keep her off his mind. The quote I chose for James is: “Being deployed in a war zone, it’s obviously not like everyday life. In order for the men to stay focused, accomplish their missions and stay alive, it requires—more than anything else—mental discipline. If an individual loses focus and doesn’t see something they ought to have seen, it may not only get them injured but the person next to them as well. It’s imperative to keep distractions to a minimum. It’s focus and discipline that make the difference between frightened boys and professional soldiers who get the job done. That’s also why drinking and sex are discouraged while deployed.”
Highly recommended for Contemporary Romance lovers.
February 23, 2020
Friends with Benefits ................... and the journey begins
*** 4 1/2 Stars ***
Mountains Wanted is the first book in the Mountains Series and it starts the story of Dr. Sarah Lynde and James McAllister. She is mid thirties, single mother of two kids and sociology professor. She is also smart, beautiful, loves her body and sex and is looking for a new friend with benefits. He about thirty and a First Sergeant in the Army. James is not ready to settle down with one woman yet, although he knows he will want to eventually, as he does not know when his next deployment will happen. So he is up for a friends with benefits situation also. This is when Sarah and James cross paths at a coffee shop and they are immediately attracted with sparks flying between them. They start a friends with benefits relationship that is intense and somewhat raw for each of them. This leads to some very hot and steamy sexual encounters and also the possibility of something deeper for each of them. This leads to questions as Sarah is also attracted to a colleague at the college where she teaches and James is attracted to someone from his past.
This book does end with James and Sarah's relationship being open and nothing settled between them.
This is a really well written book with a fascinating and fully engrossing story-line. The characters of Sarah and James are both multi-layered with a lot of different emotions, motivations and urges which play out between them in different ways. It is not all easy between them but they do work it out in different ways.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
*** 4 1/2 Stars ***
Mountains Wanted is the first book in the Mountains Series and it starts the story of Dr. Sarah Lynde and James McAllister. She is mid thirties, single mother of two kids and sociology professor. She is also smart, beautiful, loves her body and sex and is looking for a new friend with benefits. He about thirty and a First Sergeant in the Army. James is not ready to settle down with one woman yet, although he knows he will want to eventually, as he does not know when his next deployment will happen. So he is up for a friends with benefits situation also. This is when Sarah and James cross paths at a coffee shop and they are immediately attracted with sparks flying between them. They start a friends with benefits relationship that is intense and somewhat raw for each of them. This leads to some very hot and steamy sexual encounters and also the possibility of something deeper for each of them. This leads to questions as Sarah is also attracted to a colleague at the college where she teaches and James is attracted to someone from his past.
This book does end with James and Sarah's relationship being open and nothing settled between them.
This is a really well written book with a fascinating and fully engrossing story-line. The characters of Sarah and James are both multi-layered with a lot of different emotions, motivations and urges which play out between them in different ways. It is not all easy between them but they do work it out in different ways.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
January 15, 2020
I had a very difficult time reviewing this book- loving some of it and despising others. The positive aspects- very thought provoking. It touches on very emotional topics such as open marriages, sex clubs, gays in the military, how to approach teens about sex, being a single mom. Another positive -the character development is outstanding. Although the story centered around James and Sarah's relationship the secondary characters (Sarah's colleague Dr. Pawal, her friend Rachel and her Mom Kathy to name a few) were well developed lending a realistic take on Sarah's day to day life. The story is very erotic with explicit, very well written sex scenes. The sex scenes were both a positive and negative- some were over the top, adding nothing to the basic story but a longer, convoluted story. I admit to skipping over some of them just to read about James and Sarah's relationship. The big negative for me was Sarah. She came across as a hypocrite-Although I appreciated her being a single Mom she's complains about "putting others first" as she's out every weekend sleeping around,she wants to have "open relationships" but when she falls in love expects the object of her love to choose between his finance and her. The big negative -the ending. I invested so much time in the story only to have Sarah and James's relationship hanging. I guess I have to read book 2 of the series. I would recommend this to those who enjoy thought-provoking steamy novels- stay away if "non-conventional sex is not your thing.
June 13, 2021
Sarah is looking for a hook up, Friends with benefits whatever you want to put a label on it but definitely not a relationship that why this seems a great deal with James.
Sarah is woman who knows what she wants, nothing complicated, no relationship just sex. While at work she meets James who seems the ideal person for a friends with benefit package, there is an instant attraction but as it goes on can she just see him a bit of fun or will it get serious.
James is a RTOC Instructor and is giving a talk to a class but his attraction is drawn to the professor, Sarah. When they approach each other James feels the attraction and when the opportunity to just scratch each others itch becomes a reality James jumps in with both feet but feelings are starting to play a part and James is at crossroads.
I love, love, love this author and her stories there is never a boring one, the writing is brilliant as usual and the characters are well developed and just jump off the page with the chemistry they have.
I always love how Phoebe creates her female lead characters with strength and a "don't give a crap" attitude but also shows the flaws in there characters as well and that is also evident in this book. I also love the way the male characters are nearly always alpha men but have that soft side to them that you just melt into.
This is the first book in this series and can't wait to read the next books to see how this beautiful relationship and couple progress.
Sarah is woman who knows what she wants, nothing complicated, no relationship just sex. While at work she meets James who seems the ideal person for a friends with benefit package, there is an instant attraction but as it goes on can she just see him a bit of fun or will it get serious.
James is a RTOC Instructor and is giving a talk to a class but his attraction is drawn to the professor, Sarah. When they approach each other James feels the attraction and when the opportunity to just scratch each others itch becomes a reality James jumps in with both feet but feelings are starting to play a part and James is at crossroads.
I love, love, love this author and her stories there is never a boring one, the writing is brilliant as usual and the characters are well developed and just jump off the page with the chemistry they have.
I always love how Phoebe creates her female lead characters with strength and a "don't give a crap" attitude but also shows the flaws in there characters as well and that is also evident in this book. I also love the way the male characters are nearly always alpha men but have that soft side to them that you just melt into.
This is the first book in this series and can't wait to read the next books to see how this beautiful relationship and couple progress.
February 6, 2020
Mountains Wanted is book 1 of the series. What a way to start a series off. Wow this book was definitely a 5++ star read.
Those of you who know Phoebe’s reading should expect nothing but top notch! She has become one of my go to authors and she never disappoints us. This book has some amazing main characters and some pretty good supporting character also.
Sarah and James are both likable from the very beginning. I love how Sarah is a grown woman who has been around the block once or twice, has a good head on her shoulders and knows what she wants.
James is a tad younger then Sarah but you would never know it if the author didn’t tell us that. Sarah and James meet one day at a lecture. However they have seen each other before that. When Sarah saw him at a coffee shop previously, she didn’t hesitate to check him out from head to toe.
When James and Sarah get together, it’s as friends with benefits but does it ever really stay that way in the book world? These two have such chemistry, your kindle will be on fire as you read it.
There were so many good parts in this book and I don’t want to give any spoilers away. There’s a lot of depth to this book and you will enjoy reading about everything. Sarah’s best friend, Sarah’s children and we can’t forget James and his family.
Mountains wanted is packing lots of heat and will leave you begging for more.
Those of you who know Phoebe’s reading should expect nothing but top notch! She has become one of my go to authors and she never disappoints us. This book has some amazing main characters and some pretty good supporting character also.
Sarah and James are both likable from the very beginning. I love how Sarah is a grown woman who has been around the block once or twice, has a good head on her shoulders and knows what she wants.
James is a tad younger then Sarah but you would never know it if the author didn’t tell us that. Sarah and James meet one day at a lecture. However they have seen each other before that. When Sarah saw him at a coffee shop previously, she didn’t hesitate to check him out from head to toe.
When James and Sarah get together, it’s as friends with benefits but does it ever really stay that way in the book world? These two have such chemistry, your kindle will be on fire as you read it.
There were so many good parts in this book and I don’t want to give any spoilers away. There’s a lot of depth to this book and you will enjoy reading about everything. Sarah’s best friend, Sarah’s children and we can’t forget James and his family.
Mountains wanted is packing lots of heat and will leave you begging for more.
May 21, 2021
Warning: Meant to be enjoyed by Readers over 18+
This steamy and enjoyable story was previously released with the same title, however, this version has been reworked and edited. After you enjoy this book, you will want to read the next two the in the Mountains Series. James and Sarah's story continues in the second and third books which also can function as standalone books.
I did not hesitate to read and review "Mountains Wanted (Mountains Series Book 1)" by Phoebe Alexander. I am a long-time fan of Alexander's and I expected quality writing with good character development. Since I have read many of her works, I hold her to a higher standard than most authors I review. Well, Alexander delivered another steamy, entertaining, and well-written story! Dr. Sarah Lynde is a strong female lead who is in control of her sexuality. As a single mother, she cares for her children as a sociology professor. As a woman, she is in touch with what she wants and isn't afraid to go after Army First Sergeant James McAllister. At first, the two are happy to be friends with benefits but they begin to build a connection that leads to them wanting more. What will this lead to? How can it be resolved?
This steamy and enjoyable story was previously released with the same title, however, this version has been reworked and edited. After you enjoy this book, you will want to read the next two the in the Mountains Series. James and Sarah's story continues in the second and third books which also can function as standalone books.
I did not hesitate to read and review "Mountains Wanted (Mountains Series Book 1)" by Phoebe Alexander. I am a long-time fan of Alexander's and I expected quality writing with good character development. Since I have read many of her works, I hold her to a higher standard than most authors I review. Well, Alexander delivered another steamy, entertaining, and well-written story! Dr. Sarah Lynde is a strong female lead who is in control of her sexuality. As a single mother, she cares for her children as a sociology professor. As a woman, she is in touch with what she wants and isn't afraid to go after Army First Sergeant James McAllister. At first, the two are happy to be friends with benefits but they begin to build a connection that leads to them wanting more. What will this lead to? How can it be resolved?
June 14, 2021
I was not prepared for the amount of steam in this contemporary romance, but I’m not saying that’s a bad thing! ;) There were definitely some pearl-clutching scenes.
Sarah is a professor of sociology and James is in the Army. They meet and have an instant connection and when they are together intimately, they both feel like it feels so normal and that it’s just right.
Sarah is polyamorous, which was a lifestyle that was new to me to read about. She loves sex and isn’t ashamed to admit it. She’s not looking for a relationship, just a friend with benefits.
James is accepting of Sarah’s lifestyle, and even explores things himself. He agrees to a friends with benefits arrangement, but when no clear rules were set, things become murky.
Sarah wasn’t supposed to fall in love but realizes that she has done just that. She finds herself having a hard time knowing that James has also found himself in love with another person, despite his and Sarah's FWB arrangement.
With an impending deployment, there are some tough decisions that need to be made. Will James choose Maggie, the high school sweetheart with whom he recently reconnected back home? Or will he choose Sarah, the woman he’s grown to love over several months?
Sarah is a professor of sociology and James is in the Army. They meet and have an instant connection and when they are together intimately, they both feel like it feels so normal and that it’s just right.
Sarah is polyamorous, which was a lifestyle that was new to me to read about. She loves sex and isn’t ashamed to admit it. She’s not looking for a relationship, just a friend with benefits.
James is accepting of Sarah’s lifestyle, and even explores things himself. He agrees to a friends with benefits arrangement, but when no clear rules were set, things become murky.
Sarah wasn’t supposed to fall in love but realizes that she has done just that. She finds herself having a hard time knowing that James has also found himself in love with another person, despite his and Sarah's FWB arrangement.
With an impending deployment, there are some tough decisions that need to be made. Will James choose Maggie, the high school sweetheart with whom he recently reconnected back home? Or will he choose Sarah, the woman he’s grown to love over several months?
January 8, 2020
Sarah lives a poly lifestyle and when she meets James, she's instantly attracted. True he's a bit younger than her, but she wants to explore that connection and see where things go. James isn't sure what he wants right now, but he knows he likes spending time with Sarah. There's a bit of relief that happens when she says she doesn't want anything too serious. But as things grow between the two of them, Sarah finds herself wanting more while James is content with their original agreement, so where could their relationship possibly go from here?
So I wanted to be a bit upset with both of them, Sarah for changing the original agreement as her feelings grew and James for sticking to the original agreement (and also for being so closed off). I understand his background is military and he's got a rough exterior (and approach to things), but when Sarah keeps pleading that she needs more, he only gives a little. I would have liked to see some of James' perspective on things, to see where he's coming from. This story is a large story even broken into 3 parts, so there is still a lot more Alexander has in store for her readers and I can't wait to see what's in store.
So I wanted to be a bit upset with both of them, Sarah for changing the original agreement as her feelings grew and James for sticking to the original agreement (and also for being so closed off). I understand his background is military and he's got a rough exterior (and approach to things), but when Sarah keeps pleading that she needs more, he only gives a little. I would have liked to see some of James' perspective on things, to see where he's coming from. This story is a large story even broken into 3 parts, so there is still a lot more Alexander has in store for her readers and I can't wait to see what's in store.
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