What do you think?
Gallant Lake Stories #5
Her Mountainside Haven
A new neighbor was not part of her plan
Is there room for one more in her carefully guarded world? Jillian Coleman has carefully constructed a haven for herself, complete with therapy dog Sophie to ease her anxiety and panic attacks. But when intriguing developer Matt Danzer shows up asking for access to a road that runs through her land, Jillie finds her stand-alone resolve starting to crumble. Up till now, a predictable life was all she could hope for. But Matt made her realize playing it safe was not all it was cracked up to be...
From Harlequin Special Edition: Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.
Gallant Lake Stories
Book 1: A Man You Can Trust
Book 2: It Started at Christmas...
Book 3: Her Homecoming Wish
Book 4: Changing His Plans
Book 5: Her Mountainside Haven
Is there room for one more in her carefully guarded world? Jillian Coleman has carefully constructed a haven for herself, complete with therapy dog Sophie to ease her anxiety and panic attacks. But when intriguing developer Matt Danzer shows up asking for access to a road that runs through her land, Jillie finds her stand-alone resolve starting to crumble. Up till now, a predictable life was all she could hope for. But Matt made her realize playing it safe was not all it was cracked up to be...
From Harlequin Special Edition: Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.
Gallant Lake Stories
Book 1: A Man You Can Trust
Book 2: It Started at Christmas...
Book 3: Her Homecoming Wish
Book 4: Changing His Plans
Book 5: Her Mountainside Haven
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 26, 2021
About the author
Jo McNally
70 books264 followersI write the same kind of romances I like to read – stories about characters facing real-life challenges with real-life consequences. The stories are emotional, but still have humor, and love always finds a way to pull the characters through together.
I live in coastal North Carolina with 100 pounds of dog and 200 pounds of husband – my slice of the bed is very small. When I’m not writing or reading romance novels (or clinging to the edge of the bed…), I can often be found on the back porch sipping wine with friends while listening to an eclectic playlist. If the weather is absolutely perfect, I might join my husband on the golf course, where I always feel far more competitive than my actual skill-level would suggest.
I live in coastal North Carolina with 100 pounds of dog and 200 pounds of husband – my slice of the bed is very small. When I’m not writing or reading romance novels (or clinging to the edge of the bed…), I can often be found on the back porch sipping wine with friends while listening to an eclectic playlist. If the weather is absolutely perfect, I might join my husband on the golf course, where I always feel far more competitive than my actual skill-level would suggest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 28, 2021
Jillie Coleman is a horror writer, she lives in a secluded mountainside home, and she has agoraphobia. What will she do now that Matt Danzer is planning on reopening the abandoned ski resort next door to her property? This was an enjoyable and somewhat different romance. It was interesting that the heroine was agoraphobic. She had many work-arounds to get through her days, and she had a wonderful therapy dog, Sophie. Matt ruined her peaceful existence when he came to reopen the ski resort, but the last thing Jillie expected was to fall in love with her new neighbor. Matt was a really good hero, and he was so patient with Jillie, trying to ease her fears and make her comfortable. I also enjoyed Jillie’s career as a writer of horror stories. The Gallant Lake setting was lovely and I enjoyed the preparations for the reopening of the ski resort. An interesting, different, and entertaining romance novel.
December 26, 2020
This is a Romance, and this is the 5th book in the Gallant Lake Stories series. I have not read the first four books in this series before picking up this book, and I do think you can read this book as a standalone without any problems. Jillian has anxiety and panic attacks with some other stuff going on meets a developer named Matt who brought the property next to hers. I love the romance between these two. I love how Matt helps Jillian. The characters where so developed, and I loved them so much. The storyline/plot was really good and fun to read. This was a sweet, but it was a really good story to read. I got pulled into this book, and I did not want it to end. I will have to keep reading this series. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
February 1, 2021
I thought the author did a good job drawing the reader into the book with the characters. Jillie had a dramatic past and had been living in and with fear. I’m not sure if the author intended it but I was on edge throughout the book. I felt Jillie’s restlessness come through the book.
Matt has the typical in charge personality. He’d taken on the responsibility of parenting at a young age and he wasn’t ready I let go of the reigns. He didn’t take no for an answer and was willing to go the extra to get what he wants. I did find him pushy at times and a little to aggressive but then he would do something sweet for Jillie and he was easily forgiven.
They got off on the wrong foot but they quickly rectified that. Their relationship morphed easily and quickly. It wasn’t a terribly long book so I understood the quickness to move the story along but it didn’t fit Jillie’s guarded personality. She was so tentative at exploring a new relationship but this was rather fast. The story takes place after the pandemic and we are back to “normal”. I appreciated how the author handles this with the characters and in the storyline.
Again, I found this to be enjoyable but thought it was rather one note and needed more to their story.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Matt has the typical in charge personality. He’d taken on the responsibility of parenting at a young age and he wasn’t ready I let go of the reigns. He didn’t take no for an answer and was willing to go the extra to get what he wants. I did find him pushy at times and a little to aggressive but then he would do something sweet for Jillie and he was easily forgiven.
They got off on the wrong foot but they quickly rectified that. Their relationship morphed easily and quickly. It wasn’t a terribly long book so I understood the quickness to move the story along but it didn’t fit Jillie’s guarded personality. She was so tentative at exploring a new relationship but this was rather fast. The story takes place after the pandemic and we are back to “normal”. I appreciated how the author handles this with the characters and in the storyline.
Again, I found this to be enjoyable but thought it was rather one note and needed more to their story.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
January 11, 2021
This was a cute, at some points bordering on cheesy love story and I am here for it!!
Jillie is a reclusive author who has a troubled past. She has made her home in a tiny skiing town and has a few close friends she can trust due to her anxiety and agoraphobia. Then the hit new guy in town decides to re open the ski lodge next door to her and her world gets turned upside down dealing with the idea of the people and falling for him!
Jillie is a reclusive author who has a troubled past. She has made her home in a tiny skiing town and has a few close friends she can trust due to her anxiety and agoraphobia. Then the hit new guy in town decides to re open the ski lodge next door to her and her world gets turned upside down dealing with the idea of the people and falling for him!
January 26, 2021
Good book. Jillie is a reclusive author of a popular series of horror novels. Due to her anxiety, panic attacks, and agoraphobia, she spends little time outside of her comfortable mountain home. She has a few close friends in town who know about her issues and help Jillie cope when she visits them. As a general rule, Privacy is her middle name, so she isn't happy when she learns that the abandoned ski resort next to her property has been sold.
Matt is the manager of his younger brother's ski career. While Bryce heals from a ski injury, Matt plans to renovate and flip the abandoned ski resort. He started his business as a way to make money and stay busy while Bryce trains. His plans hit a roadblock when the only access to the property runs through his reclusive neighbor's property.
The first meeting between Matt and Jillie got their relationship off to a rocky start. Matt went exploring his new property (still in his suit!) and ended up on the wrong side of the property line. He was treed by a very protective Sophie and threatened with bear spray by a very wary Jillie. There are some tense encounters between them as Matt makes his plea for access to the road until he receives some advice from her friends. I liked the meeting he set up and how he was willing to work out a compromise that suited them both.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Matt and Jillie. It begins slowly, with the exchange of texts regarding the road, during which Jillie becomes accustomed to the intrusions. A few encounters make Jillie realize that she feels safe with Matt, which hasn't happened for a very long time. I liked watching them get to know each other, especially as Jillie opens up about her mental health issues. I appreciated Matt's desire to understand. There is a beautiful scene when he takes Jillie on a date and has to handle one of her attacks. At the same time, Matt freaks out a bit at his growing feelings for her. They don't fit in with his future plans, but he can't imagine that future without her.
I liked seeing the changes in Jillie, also. Her issues with anxiety and panic attacks are still there, but she becomes more willing to step a little outside her comfort zone. She's honest with Matt about her fears and how they affect her life. When his need to travel runs up against her inability to leave home, harsh words erupt between them. I ached for them both as each one faced the possibility that love wasn't enough. I liked the self-examination that motivated them each to make changes. The ending was fantastic. Matt's actions showed that he finally understood her, and Jillie found the strength to take some chances. I'm looking forward to future books and seeing how their relationship progresses.
I haven't read the earlier books in the series, but this worked easily as a stand-alone. It did whet my appetite to go back and read the previous books, as I am intrigued by the hints dropped about the other couples' romances.
#netgalley
Matt is the manager of his younger brother's ski career. While Bryce heals from a ski injury, Matt plans to renovate and flip the abandoned ski resort. He started his business as a way to make money and stay busy while Bryce trains. His plans hit a roadblock when the only access to the property runs through his reclusive neighbor's property.
The first meeting between Matt and Jillie got their relationship off to a rocky start. Matt went exploring his new property (still in his suit!) and ended up on the wrong side of the property line. He was treed by a very protective Sophie and threatened with bear spray by a very wary Jillie. There are some tense encounters between them as Matt makes his plea for access to the road until he receives some advice from her friends. I liked the meeting he set up and how he was willing to work out a compromise that suited them both.
I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Matt and Jillie. It begins slowly, with the exchange of texts regarding the road, during which Jillie becomes accustomed to the intrusions. A few encounters make Jillie realize that she feels safe with Matt, which hasn't happened for a very long time. I liked watching them get to know each other, especially as Jillie opens up about her mental health issues. I appreciated Matt's desire to understand. There is a beautiful scene when he takes Jillie on a date and has to handle one of her attacks. At the same time, Matt freaks out a bit at his growing feelings for her. They don't fit in with his future plans, but he can't imagine that future without her.
I liked seeing the changes in Jillie, also. Her issues with anxiety and panic attacks are still there, but she becomes more willing to step a little outside her comfort zone. She's honest with Matt about her fears and how they affect her life. When his need to travel runs up against her inability to leave home, harsh words erupt between them. I ached for them both as each one faced the possibility that love wasn't enough. I liked the self-examination that motivated them each to make changes. The ending was fantastic. Matt's actions showed that he finally understood her, and Jillie found the strength to take some chances. I'm looking forward to future books and seeing how their relationship progresses.
I haven't read the earlier books in the series, but this worked easily as a stand-alone. It did whet my appetite to go back and read the previous books, as I am intrigued by the hints dropped about the other couples' romances.
#netgalley
January 13, 2021
I personally have never heard of agoraphobia before but it was interesting reading about it and how Jillie had work arounds so that she could still go out sometimes in public. I also liked the way her house was described with the heated floors and all the little extras she had.
I couldn't seem to put the book down. Enjoyed how the book explained her problems and issues but did it in a way that you could understand and not in some medical mumbo jumbo that you don't understand.
Matt was a good character for her. I loved how they met. I also liked that for the most part he was in tune with her so to speak.
A great book that I really enjoyed. I think you will too.
I couldn't seem to put the book down. Enjoyed how the book explained her problems and issues but did it in a way that you could understand and not in some medical mumbo jumbo that you don't understand.
Matt was a good character for her. I loved how they met. I also liked that for the most part he was in tune with her so to speak.
A great book that I really enjoyed. I think you will too.
February 2, 2021
I don't read a lot of romance. When I do pick one up, I'm looking for something *extra* to really grab my attention. "Her Mountainside Haven" by Jo McNally definitely fit the bill. As the title indicates, the story is set on a beautiful mountainside. The descriptions were wonderful, and I could almost believe I was there, seeing everything in person.
Another bonus was that main character Jillie suffers from some fairly severe agoraphobia issues. She has a semi-therapy dog (Sophie) to help her, but she still rarely leaves home. I was interested to read a romance in which one of the parties involved dealt with this type of problem. I also enjoyed the big part Sophie played in the story.
As if that wasn't enough, the second major character (Matt) has just purchased an old (and non-operational) ski lodge, which he's trying to fix up and reopen. All of these factors came together and convinced me to celebrate the start of Valentine's month by reading a romance!
I'm so glad I did....the story was excellent, and it was interesting to see a relationship develop when one of the parties tends to avoid everyone except a small cadre of close friends. Both characters were well-written and believable, and I felt invested in their slowly evolving relationship. I especially appreciated that neither character played "games" with the other. There were some slight misunderstandings, but these were fairly quickly resolved with actual communication.
One note: This book is part of the Gallant Lake series. As I read, I could see certain Jillie-adjacent couples that were likely the main subjects of previous titles. However, I had no trouble figuring out who everyone was, and how they related to Jillie and Matt. Certain little character moments *might* be better appreciated by someone who views them as "revisiting old friends", but I was perfectly comfortable picking up the series with this book.
Five out of five slices of spicy Pepper Jack!
Another bonus was that main character Jillie suffers from some fairly severe agoraphobia issues. She has a semi-therapy dog (Sophie) to help her, but she still rarely leaves home. I was interested to read a romance in which one of the parties involved dealt with this type of problem. I also enjoyed the big part Sophie played in the story.
As if that wasn't enough, the second major character (Matt) has just purchased an old (and non-operational) ski lodge, which he's trying to fix up and reopen. All of these factors came together and convinced me to celebrate the start of Valentine's month by reading a romance!
I'm so glad I did....the story was excellent, and it was interesting to see a relationship develop when one of the parties tends to avoid everyone except a small cadre of close friends. Both characters were well-written and believable, and I felt invested in their slowly evolving relationship. I especially appreciated that neither character played "games" with the other. There were some slight misunderstandings, but these were fairly quickly resolved with actual communication.
One note: This book is part of the Gallant Lake series. As I read, I could see certain Jillie-adjacent couples that were likely the main subjects of previous titles. However, I had no trouble figuring out who everyone was, and how they related to Jillie and Matt. Certain little character moments *might* be better appreciated by someone who views them as "revisiting old friends", but I was perfectly comfortable picking up the series with this book.
Five out of five slices of spicy Pepper Jack!
February 4, 2021
Her Mountainside Haven is part of the Gallant Lake series but can be read as a standalone. It's the story of Jillie, a bestselling horror author with a pen name who have panic disorder and agoraphobia, and her new neighbor, Matt, who flip properties for a living and who's also the manager of his ski athlete brother that he basically raised. Matt just bought the ski lodge next to her land and needs to do modifications that means asking her permission. Jillie doesn't like surprise and will be tough to convince, but a decent man like Matt recognized from her cold welcome and her "guard dog" that she's afraid of something. But a part of her stay a mystery to him; one he wants to uncover.
Sophie the Rottweiler was a great bodyguard and pet😛. The author brings the anxiety issues with sensitivity and I'm glad she paired her heroine with a man who understood her and was patient enough to give her the time she needed. There's little excerpt from the heroine's YA novel at the beginning of each chapters. I could have done without the few brief mentions of "a pandemy that's behind them" through😉.
Sophie the Rottweiler was a great bodyguard and pet😛. The author brings the anxiety issues with sensitivity and I'm glad she paired her heroine with a man who understood her and was patient enough to give her the time she needed. There's little excerpt from the heroine's YA novel at the beginning of each chapters. I could have done without the few brief mentions of "a pandemy that's behind them" through😉.
January 16, 2021
I am both new to the author as well as to the series and must confess that I am glad I took a chance on both.
Jillie Coleman is an author that moved to Gallant Lake in pursue of isolation and found the perfect home there. She suffers from agoraphobia after a traumatic experience in her youth and needed a place that would be her haven. Her guardian/support dog keeps her company and that’s all she thinks she needs.
But her world is turned upside down when the abandoned sky lodge is bought up by a annoying as well as intriguing developer by the name of Matt Danzer. Their first meeting was less than stellar with him climbing up a tree to avoid her dog. But it was one that would change their lives forever.
What happens when they fall in love ? He is the one that travels around the world , while she barely can leave her home?
Can they find a new normal unique to them? Can each help the other find a new partnership and understanding that though things might not always run smoothly they have each other?
While the plot was engaging, it was also enlightening and informative. Agoraphobia is real and understanding the disease, helps the reader be more compassionate to those dealing with it.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Jillie Coleman is an author that moved to Gallant Lake in pursue of isolation and found the perfect home there. She suffers from agoraphobia after a traumatic experience in her youth and needed a place that would be her haven. Her guardian/support dog keeps her company and that’s all she thinks she needs.
But her world is turned upside down when the abandoned sky lodge is bought up by a annoying as well as intriguing developer by the name of Matt Danzer. Their first meeting was less than stellar with him climbing up a tree to avoid her dog. But it was one that would change their lives forever.
What happens when they fall in love ? He is the one that travels around the world , while she barely can leave her home?
Can they find a new normal unique to them? Can each help the other find a new partnership and understanding that though things might not always run smoothly they have each other?
While the plot was engaging, it was also enlightening and informative. Agoraphobia is real and understanding the disease, helps the reader be more compassionate to those dealing with it.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 28, 2021
Her Mountainside Haven is Jo McNally’s fifth book of Gallant Lake Stories. Jilliie Coleman had constructed a haven for herself, complete with therapy dog Sophie to ease her anxiety and panic attacks. Up until now, a predictable life was all she could hope for, but she did not expect to find her new neighbor be chased up into a tree by Sophie on her property. Matt Danzer needed access to the road on Jillie’s land to reopen the old ski lodge, not fall in love with Jillie. HER MOUNTAINSIDE HAVEN shows that falling in love with Matt shows Jillie that playing it safe was not all it was cracked up to be. Jo McNally's portrayal of Jillie as a woman suffering agoraphobia is superbly done and she cleverly uses snippets of Jillie’s writing to incorporate into her romance with Matt where she finds the courage to step outside her comfort zone. I received this complimentary copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
January 9, 2021
Jillie is an agoraphobic author living in Gallant Lake. Matt is a real estate developer who has just purchased the ski resort that border's Jillie's otherwise secluded property. The two have a stressful first meeting, leaving Matt stuck in a tree while Jillie and her Rottweiler believe him to be a prowler on her property. The two develop a relationship, both learning to cope with their own expectations and realities. This is the fifth installment in the Gallant Lake series, but can be read as a standalone.
Jo McNally is my favorite contemporary romance author and this book did not disappoint! I always enjoy the humor she adds to her stories, without making them fully romantic comedies. Her characters feel realistic and face real issues, as was the case for Jillie and Matt. I loved her handling of agoraphobia and anxiety, as well as the way she incorporated childhood trauma for both of the main characters. Gallant Lake is a charming town and I will continue to read, and I'm sure enjoy, future books in this series!
I received a free ebook of this title as part of the author's review team; all opinions are my own.
Jo McNally is my favorite contemporary romance author and this book did not disappoint! I always enjoy the humor she adds to her stories, without making them fully romantic comedies. Her characters feel realistic and face real issues, as was the case for Jillie and Matt. I loved her handling of agoraphobia and anxiety, as well as the way she incorporated childhood trauma for both of the main characters. Gallant Lake is a charming town and I will continue to read, and I'm sure enjoy, future books in this series!
I received a free ebook of this title as part of the author's review team; all opinions are my own.
January 10, 2021
Her Mountainside Haven Gallant Lake Series bk 5, by Jo McNally.
Excellent book, that's written beautifully, there are a lot of emotions in this book.
Jillie Coleman lives with her therapy dog Sophie in Gallant Lake on a mountain away from everyone. This is because of her anxiety and panic attacks. Her friends in the town help her when she goes into town. But who is the new person in Gallant Lake?
Next to Jillie's property is an old, unused ski resort until now? Can newcomer Matt Danzer help Jillie with her panic attacks? or will he bring on more?
This is a wonderful book, that is extremely well written, the chemistry of the main characters Jillie and Matt is so hot, and the plot, is full of intrigue and Jillie's past history comes back to her.
Will Jillie and Matt get a HEA? purchase the book to find out.
I was picked for this ARC from Jo McNally for my honest review, so thank you very much, Jo, I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one in the series.
Excellent book, that's written beautifully, there are a lot of emotions in this book.
Jillie Coleman lives with her therapy dog Sophie in Gallant Lake on a mountain away from everyone. This is because of her anxiety and panic attacks. Her friends in the town help her when she goes into town. But who is the new person in Gallant Lake?
Next to Jillie's property is an old, unused ski resort until now? Can newcomer Matt Danzer help Jillie with her panic attacks? or will he bring on more?
This is a wonderful book, that is extremely well written, the chemistry of the main characters Jillie and Matt is so hot, and the plot, is full of intrigue and Jillie's past history comes back to her.
Will Jillie and Matt get a HEA? purchase the book to find out.
I was picked for this ARC from Jo McNally for my honest review, so thank you very much, Jo, I truly enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one in the series.
January 15, 2021
A sweet romance. Some heavy personal issues on both sides requiring understanding and growth. Love doesn't really conquer all, but it helps. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley.
January 23, 2021
This book is in the Gallant Lake series. This is my first read in this series, but have read a number of books by Jo McNally.
Jillie is living in her mountain home in quiet comfort as she suffers from agoraphobia. She has many friends in town that are protective of her fears but enables her to get out into town.
She is a famous author currently writing a new book. She is out walking on the mountain when she encounters a man on her property.
Come to find out he is a flipper redoing an old ski lodge.
A relationship develops bringing Jillie doing things she hadn’t been able to do In a long time.
This is a very pleasant story with an interesting storyline.
I received an advanced copy in return for an honest review.
Jillie is living in her mountain home in quiet comfort as she suffers from agoraphobia. She has many friends in town that are protective of her fears but enables her to get out into town.
She is a famous author currently writing a new book. She is out walking on the mountain when she encounters a man on her property.
Come to find out he is a flipper redoing an old ski lodge.
A relationship develops bringing Jillie doing things she hadn’t been able to do In a long time.
This is a very pleasant story with an interesting storyline.
I received an advanced copy in return for an honest review.
December 29, 2020
3.5 stars
Jillian Coleman has built a life for herself in the small quiet town of Gallant Lake in an effort to escape her abusive past. Her anxiety and agoraphobia render her a virtual prisoner in her own home. But it’s a relatively peaceful existence, until Matt Danzer buys the run down old ski resort next door to her property. Can she deal with her new neighbor intruding into her private life? Can Matt convince her to let him in?
I share several of Jillian’s mental health disorders, so I was really curious to see how they would be presented in this book. For the most part I wasn’t disappointed. Her struggles are described quite thoroughly & accurately in an effort to get Matt to understand her (and educate the reader at the same time). One thing that made no sense to me was how she made so many friends in this new town she moved to. When you’re a virtual recluse, it’s very difficult to even keep the friends that you already have, let alone make new ones. Barring that, I thought the book was interesting and well done.
Thank you to NetGalley & Harlequin Special Edition for this advanced reader copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Jillian Coleman has built a life for herself in the small quiet town of Gallant Lake in an effort to escape her abusive past. Her anxiety and agoraphobia render her a virtual prisoner in her own home. But it’s a relatively peaceful existence, until Matt Danzer buys the run down old ski resort next door to her property. Can she deal with her new neighbor intruding into her private life? Can Matt convince her to let him in?
I share several of Jillian’s mental health disorders, so I was really curious to see how they would be presented in this book. For the most part I wasn’t disappointed. Her struggles are described quite thoroughly & accurately in an effort to get Matt to understand her (and educate the reader at the same time). One thing that made no sense to me was how she made so many friends in this new town she moved to. When you’re a virtual recluse, it’s very difficult to even keep the friends that you already have, let alone make new ones. Barring that, I thought the book was interesting and well done.
Thank you to NetGalley & Harlequin Special Edition for this advanced reader copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 16, 2021
“You never had closure.” He kissed her hair. No wonder it’s still messing with your head.
“In my books, women and girls are the heroes”
“I want girls to see themselves as having power”
A fictional story about a well known author,Jillie, who has some series emotional personal issues going on in her life. She has agoraphobia stemming from her childhood spent in foster care.
She has a therepy dog, Sophie, who will make you smile as she protects Jillie.
The story contains inserts of a new book she’s in the process of getting ready to send to her publisher.
Makes for a very different, intriguing read.
Certainly a very emotional read.
How Jillie has learned to cope is truly amazing. She leads a solitary life with just a few good friends. Then she meets Matt and her life suddenly heads in another direction but is Jillie ready for this?
I did not realize this was book 5 in a series. I am happy to say, I had no problem reading this as a standalone. This is also my first time reading a book written by Jo McNally. Her writing style is wonderful and I hope to read more by her.
“In my books, women and girls are the heroes”
“I want girls to see themselves as having power”
A fictional story about a well known author,Jillie, who has some series emotional personal issues going on in her life. She has agoraphobia stemming from her childhood spent in foster care.
She has a therepy dog, Sophie, who will make you smile as she protects Jillie.
The story contains inserts of a new book she’s in the process of getting ready to send to her publisher.
Makes for a very different, intriguing read.
Certainly a very emotional read.
How Jillie has learned to cope is truly amazing. She leads a solitary life with just a few good friends. Then she meets Matt and her life suddenly heads in another direction but is Jillie ready for this?
I did not realize this was book 5 in a series. I am happy to say, I had no problem reading this as a standalone. This is also my first time reading a book written by Jo McNally. Her writing style is wonderful and I hope to read more by her.
March 30, 2021
Jillian managed to managed to make a safe area for herself in the mountains but when the new neighbor Matt comes around asking for access that'll help his construction crew do work, her carefully constructed world feels like its about to crumble.
This was such an interesting book. I loved the close knit friends that Jillian has made they were so supportive and when things were getting iffy they quickly jumped in and helped her thought her anxiety attacks and such. They were also supportive trying to make sure that the new neighbor would keep his distance knowing how she was. Then once he finds out he tries to be kind about it but doesn't really understand that in Jillian's head she doesn't feel she has a choice and its only a matter of time before he leaves and clearly she's not going to leave even if they got something going on. This was just such an interesting and enjoyable read.
This was such an interesting book. I loved the close knit friends that Jillian has made they were so supportive and when things were getting iffy they quickly jumped in and helped her thought her anxiety attacks and such. They were also supportive trying to make sure that the new neighbor would keep his distance knowing how she was. Then once he finds out he tries to be kind about it but doesn't really understand that in Jillian's head she doesn't feel she has a choice and its only a matter of time before he leaves and clearly she's not going to leave even if they got something going on. This was just such an interesting and enjoyable read.
January 30, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
While this is a part of a series and some of the prior characters make multiple appearances, you really don’t have to read the prior stories to thoroughly enjoy this one.
This was such a touching story. Jillie suffers from a condition called agoraphobia. She suffered a slight case of the phobia when she was younger as she was a foster child and was moved around. But due to a situation much later, it became heightened to a point that she had to move to Gallant Lake. She highly guards her privacy and anonymity. She is a horror story author and only a very few people know of her works. I felt for the character and how she had overcome some of the phobia with help of her friends.
Matt at the age of 20 became his younger brother, Bryce’s, guardian when their parents died. Matt manages Bryce’s career who is a downhill skier. Bryce won a Gold Medal and at one point suffers an injury. To make ends make at the various locations that Bryce has to train and compete, Matt is a flipper of businesses and the occasional house. Matt purchased the ski resort that went into foreclosure when Bryce needs to recover from the injury. Unfortunately the resort is right next door to Jillie!
How these two meet and get to know each other is a wonderful story. I so felt for Matt at times. He really tried to understand and get to know Jillie but at times, he would put his foot in his mouth. There were some really cute moments that really made me feel like I was right there with the characters.
This story is told in a dual POV format. This was wonderful for me as I don’t know anyone who suffers from agoraphobia. I was able to fully understand both characters so much better.
This is a sexy story. The author did a great job in minimizing the scenes so it should not offend anyone. That being said though, I would only highly recommend this to someone over the age of 18.
While this is a part of a series and some of the prior characters make multiple appearances, you really don’t have to read the prior stories to thoroughly enjoy this one.
This was such a touching story. Jillie suffers from a condition called agoraphobia. She suffered a slight case of the phobia when she was younger as she was a foster child and was moved around. But due to a situation much later, it became heightened to a point that she had to move to Gallant Lake. She highly guards her privacy and anonymity. She is a horror story author and only a very few people know of her works. I felt for the character and how she had overcome some of the phobia with help of her friends.
Matt at the age of 20 became his younger brother, Bryce’s, guardian when their parents died. Matt manages Bryce’s career who is a downhill skier. Bryce won a Gold Medal and at one point suffers an injury. To make ends make at the various locations that Bryce has to train and compete, Matt is a flipper of businesses and the occasional house. Matt purchased the ski resort that went into foreclosure when Bryce needs to recover from the injury. Unfortunately the resort is right next door to Jillie!
How these two meet and get to know each other is a wonderful story. I so felt for Matt at times. He really tried to understand and get to know Jillie but at times, he would put his foot in his mouth. There were some really cute moments that really made me feel like I was right there with the characters.
This story is told in a dual POV format. This was wonderful for me as I don’t know anyone who suffers from agoraphobia. I was able to fully understand both characters so much better.
This is a sexy story. The author did a great job in minimizing the scenes so it should not offend anyone. That being said though, I would only highly recommend this to someone over the age of 18.
February 3, 2021
Her Mountainside Haven is the fifth book in the Gallant Lakes series. This was a new-to-me author, so I read the book as a stand-alone and I do not feel like I missed anything. Although it was fine as a stand-alone, I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading the previous books. The series is set in the small quaint town of Gallant Lake, New York, which is a tourist town. The characters are charming and so easy to connect with.
Matt Danzer purchased the closed-ski resort after seeing pictures online. He needed a place for his brother to heal after his ski accident away from the media. He plans to remodel the resort and then sell it. He thought it would be easy, but the pictures did not show all the work needed to be done. The biggest surprise was his neighbor who did not want anyone on her property.
Jillian “Jillie” Coleman was a famous horror book author and suffered from agoraphobia. She has discovered over the years ways to live her life as full as possible and still avoid panic attacks. She lives in the small town of Gallant Lakes in isolation with only a small closed-up ski resort as a neighbor. Out on a walk one day, Jillie encounters a stranger and learns that he has purchased the ski resort and plans on re-opening it to the public. Jillie does not want the resort opening but knows the town and businesses need the money the tourists would bring.
This was a charming book to read and it was so easy to fall in love with the small town and residents. Jillie and Matt had opposite lifestyles and in order to have a future together, they had to compromise.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Matt Danzer purchased the closed-ski resort after seeing pictures online. He needed a place for his brother to heal after his ski accident away from the media. He plans to remodel the resort and then sell it. He thought it would be easy, but the pictures did not show all the work needed to be done. The biggest surprise was his neighbor who did not want anyone on her property.
Jillian “Jillie” Coleman was a famous horror book author and suffered from agoraphobia. She has discovered over the years ways to live her life as full as possible and still avoid panic attacks. She lives in the small town of Gallant Lakes in isolation with only a small closed-up ski resort as a neighbor. Out on a walk one day, Jillie encounters a stranger and learns that he has purchased the ski resort and plans on re-opening it to the public. Jillie does not want the resort opening but knows the town and businesses need the money the tourists would bring.
This was a charming book to read and it was so easy to fall in love with the small town and residents. Jillie and Matt had opposite lifestyles and in order to have a future together, they had to compromise.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 3, 2021
Her Mountainside Haven is the fifth book in the Gallant Lakes series. This was a new-to-me author, so I read the book as a stand-alone and I do not feel like I missed anything. Although it was fine as a stand-alone, I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading the previous books. The series is set in the small quaint town of Gallant Lake, New York, which is a tourist town. The characters are charming and so easy to connect with.
Matt Danzer purchased the closed-ski resort after seeing pictures online. He needed a place for his brother to heal after his ski accident away from the media. He plans to remodel the resort and then sell it. He thought it would be easy, but the pictures did not show all the work needed to be done. The biggest surprise was his neighbor who did not want anyone on her property.
Jillian “Jillie” Coleman was a famous horror book author and suffered from agoraphobia. She has discovered over the years ways to live her life as full as possible and still avoid panic attacks. She lives in the small town of Gallant Lakes in isolation with only a small closed-up ski resort as a neighbor. Out on a walk one day, Jillie encounters a stranger and learns that he has purchased the ski resort and plans on re-opening it to the public. Jillie does not want the resort opening but knows the town and businesses need the money the tourists would bring.
This was a charming book to read and it was so easy to fall in love with the small town and residents. Jillie and Matt had opposite lifestyles and in order to have a future together, they had to compromise.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Matt Danzer purchased the closed-ski resort after seeing pictures online. He needed a place for his brother to heal after his ski accident away from the media. He plans to remodel the resort and then sell it. He thought it would be easy, but the pictures did not show all the work needed to be done. The biggest surprise was his neighbor who did not want anyone on her property.
Jillian “Jillie” Coleman was a famous horror book author and suffered from agoraphobia. She has discovered over the years ways to live her life as full as possible and still avoid panic attacks. She lives in the small town of Gallant Lakes in isolation with only a small closed-up ski resort as a neighbor. Out on a walk one day, Jillie encounters a stranger and learns that he has purchased the ski resort and plans on re-opening it to the public. Jillie does not want the resort opening but knows the town and businesses need the money the tourists would bring.
This was a charming book to read and it was so easy to fall in love with the small town and residents. Jillie and Matt had opposite lifestyles and in order to have a future together, they had to compromise.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 2, 2021
This book takes us back to Gallant Lake for a very special story about Jillie Coleman who lives on a mountain all by herself. She lives in an A frame house beside a deserted sky lodge and is so happy to have her peace and quiet. She has a smart house with all the bells and whistles. Her security system is top notch. No one can go on her land without her knowing about it. When someone comes up her driveway she gets a notification. How is it that while out walking Sophie, her Rottweiler, she finds herself in the presence of a stranger in an overcoat halfway up a tree with Sophie growling at him?
Matt Danzer bought the old ski lodge thinking it would just need a little bit of fixing up but when he gets to Gallant Lake he finds the old ski lodge in total disrepair. While walking around the grounds of his latest purchase he finds himself running away from a savage beast of a dog that obviously wants to eat him alive! When he looks up and sees Jillie he doesn’t feel any safer than he did before she came around the trees screaming like a banshee!
If you think that’s an interesting start just wait until you read all the crazy and wonderful things that happen between these two! Neither one of them want to give an inch but between them they might just learn how to give a little to gain a lot!
This is a beautiful story that will be sticking with me for a while. It’s one of those stories that make you think and also make you appreciate what you have! This book was beautifully written and was a joy to read! I would recommend this book to anyone! If you are looking for a great read with real emotion laced through the pages this book will hit the spot! Excellent!
Matt Danzer bought the old ski lodge thinking it would just need a little bit of fixing up but when he gets to Gallant Lake he finds the old ski lodge in total disrepair. While walking around the grounds of his latest purchase he finds himself running away from a savage beast of a dog that obviously wants to eat him alive! When he looks up and sees Jillie he doesn’t feel any safer than he did before she came around the trees screaming like a banshee!
If you think that’s an interesting start just wait until you read all the crazy and wonderful things that happen between these two! Neither one of them want to give an inch but between them they might just learn how to give a little to gain a lot!
This is a beautiful story that will be sticking with me for a while. It’s one of those stories that make you think and also make you appreciate what you have! This book was beautifully written and was a joy to read! I would recommend this book to anyone! If you are looking for a great read with real emotion laced through the pages this book will hit the spot! Excellent!
January 16, 2021
This book warmed my heart in so many ways. I was grateful for a romance with intriguing characters complicated enough and with enough sizzle and humor to snare my undivided attention. I have loved Jo McNally’ s books and characters for awhile now and this one just added to my delight with her. Besides the fun of these two discovering each other (“You are not...it’s in foreclosure...”), the deep caring friendships of the Gallant Lake community and the many instances where Jo’s turn of phrase and observations as an author and descriptions of Matt and Jillie’s feelings- especially back and forth making the scene alive and riveting- made me feel grateful to her for her talents as I read it. Especially after the traumatic beginning of 2021, this is a fun, romantic, and comforting read for us all with some great, surprising tips for handling going out safely amongst people when it is the last thing one wants to do! Thanks for the privilege of having an advanced reading copy of this, Jo, and I will be reading and looking forward to the entire series! It is a keeper.
January 20, 2021
So I was lucky enough to be sent this gorgeous book early to read and review by @jo.mcnally and I have to say it exceeded all my expectations. I knew it was going to be amazing but it blew me away. I absolutely loved the way main characters Jillie and Matt were thrown into a situation where they were faced with many obstacles in their love story, the most poignant and beautifully executed was Jillie’s battle with agoraphobia and the internal searching both she and Matt had to go through to see that they can work together to build a life while also dealing with the realities of mental health issues. That’s one of the most wonderful things about this book, and romance books in general, we get to see heroes and heroines who are real with the physical and mental health issues they battle through. Nowadays in romance reading we see parts of ourselves in these characters and real are to then on a whole new level. I give this book a ten out of ten, one of the most intriguing, captivating reads and I can’t wait for more! #millsandboon #harlequinspecialedition #romancereading #love
January 20, 2021
If you like a winter romance with an interesting medical condition thrown into the mix , this ones for you! This heroine thrives in the privacy of her home with a therapy dog while she pens books under a different name. PRIVACY is her middle name and when Matt purchased an old ski resort next to her to renovate.... Jillie is forced into unfamiliar conditions affecting her anxiety. I can promise you that this book is filed with some fascinating info on ski resort renovations & is also filled with tense & tender moments between our Hero & Heroine. It’s a sweet story with some heavy issues at bay for these two that take some fun twists & turns . The author manages to fill the story with Gallant Lake familiar characters who we all love to read about. I’m sure you’ll find this book to be a sweet, smart & a thought provoking story . I highly recommend it if you love skiing & want a peek into an authors way of life . I was happy to read this gorgeous book in exchange for my honest review !
December 14, 2022
This was a short sweet and a little bit spicy 🌶️ love story. This book is about a woman named Jillian Coleman. She is an agoraphobic with an emotional support dog that helps her with her panic attacks/fears. She is also a horror writer.
You also meet a guy named Matt Danzer. Matt is a developer. He shows up in the town where Jillian lives. The people in the town are very protective of her and know that she is agoraphobic. Matt and Jillian don’t hit it off at first because he accidentally shows up on her property. Matt shows up asking for access to a road that runs through her land. He is fixing up a ski ⛷️ resort near where she lives. Jillian begins to feel her solitary resolve crumbling as she spends some time with Matt. Matt has a brother who is an athlete and Matt travels with his brother.
Matt and Jillian were a cute couple. This book was sweet and funny and yes it’s a little spicy. I enjoyed reading this book.
You also meet a guy named Matt Danzer. Matt is a developer. He shows up in the town where Jillian lives. The people in the town are very protective of her and know that she is agoraphobic. Matt and Jillian don’t hit it off at first because he accidentally shows up on her property. Matt shows up asking for access to a road that runs through her land. He is fixing up a ski ⛷️ resort near where she lives. Jillian begins to feel her solitary resolve crumbling as she spends some time with Matt. Matt has a brother who is an athlete and Matt travels with his brother.
Matt and Jillian were a cute couple. This book was sweet and funny and yes it’s a little spicy. I enjoyed reading this book.
January 26, 2021
I really enjoyed this interesting story set in the picturesque town of Gallant Lake in the Catskill mountain of New York. Jillie was an interesting character, a writer, who suffered from agoraphobia. It was interesting to learn of her past and how it influenced her present.
I enjoyed Matt Danzer, who bought the dilapidated ski lodge next to Jillie's property. I really liked their first encounter which made me laugh.
I enjoyed the banter between Jillie and Matt and their chemistry. I thought the scenes with Jillie's dog and Matt were quite funny too. It was an interesting relationship that showed how they both had grown and changed for the better.
This book made me want to curl up by a fire in a warm, cozy ski lodge and read a book by Jo McNally. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
I enjoyed Matt Danzer, who bought the dilapidated ski lodge next to Jillie's property. I really liked their first encounter which made me laugh.
I enjoyed the banter between Jillie and Matt and their chemistry. I thought the scenes with Jillie's dog and Matt were quite funny too. It was an interesting relationship that showed how they both had grown and changed for the better.
This book made me want to curl up by a fire in a warm, cozy ski lodge and read a book by Jo McNally. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
January 29, 2021
This is a wonderful book! This is definite read! The heroine has her own challenges and the hero is incredibly supportive in a very real way. As someone who struggles in a similar way, I found the storyline very true to instances in my own life. The story moves right along without any dragging. I started and completed it the story in one day. This is unusual for me because I try to keep very busy during this pandemic. It held my interest throughout the whole book. It was nice to catch up with previous characters ... I’m looking at you Shane.
The setting is a place I would love to visit! And I am hoping for more about the heroes’ brother and gallant lake!
I did read this book as an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, but I’m going to buy it too!
The setting is a place I would love to visit! And I am hoping for more about the heroes’ brother and gallant lake!
I did read this book as an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, but I’m going to buy it too!
February 11, 2021
Welcome back to Gallant Lake where you reconnect with old friends and make a couple of new ones. Jillie Coleman is an agoraphobic who needs to be in control of her surroundings that doesn’t cause her anxiety which may lead into panic attacks. Matt Danzer enters her life by purchasing and renovating an old ski resort which borders her property. Not only does the construction mess with her orderly life but Matt stirs something inside her. Jillie stirs something in Matt but can her fears stifle their growing feelings or is it enough for Matt to stay and work with her limitations. Jo McNally teaches us about a serious anxiety disorder along with love and grace. You will not be disappointed when reading this.
January 19, 2021
“Her Mountainside Haven” is book 5 in Jo McNally’s Gallant Lake Stories miniseries.
Jillie Coleman is a recluse and trying to overcome a past trauma. She is happy and content on her mountain with no neighbors.
Matt Danzer buys the abandoned ski resort next door and encroaches on Jillie’s sanctuary.
This story felt more like Jillie’s journey than Jillie and Matt’s journey to a happily-ever-after and did not appeal to me. While Jillie’s character had depth, Matt’s seemed less so. It was as if his purpose in the story was to help Jillie heal.
There were also a couple mentions of the pandemic in the beginning pages that were also a turn-off for this reader.
Jillie Coleman is a recluse and trying to overcome a past trauma. She is happy and content on her mountain with no neighbors.
Matt Danzer buys the abandoned ski resort next door and encroaches on Jillie’s sanctuary.
This story felt more like Jillie’s journey than Jillie and Matt’s journey to a happily-ever-after and did not appeal to me. While Jillie’s character had depth, Matt’s seemed less so. It was as if his purpose in the story was to help Jillie heal.
There were also a couple mentions of the pandemic in the beginning pages that were also a turn-off for this reader.
May 25, 2021
This is book 5 in the Gallant Lakes series and can be read as a stand alone. I did not read any of the previous books. This is a nice love story that deals with the topic of agoraphobia. Jillian suffers panic attacks when she is out in public or around a crowd of people. She has a service dog, Sophia that helps calm her and keep her company in their mountain cabin. When a developer buys the land next to her wilderness for a ski resort they get off on the wrong foot when Sophie chases him up a tree. There is humor and compassion in the writing about this illness. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
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