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Smoky Mountain Doctor

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Life’s been… difficult for Piper Riordan in the last year. Her mom died, leaving her with no close family. Then, at what was supposed to be a merry occasion—her best friend’s wedding—she got shot and nearly died. Lonely and in a funk, she needs a change, so she packs up her life and heads south to be closer to her friend. From the start, things get interesting when she runs into the doctor who saved her life. Cullen Tate is kindness and smarts wrapped in the sexiest package she’s ever seen. He’s also as lonely as she is.

Romance wasn’t in the cards for Cullen. He’d accepted a long time ago that he was socially awkward thanks to his penchant for all things intellectual. But there was something different about Piper. Easy to talk to—about everything—she made him feel normal.

But as their relationship grows, Piper uncovers a secret that threatens their budding romance—and their lives.

320 pages, ebook

Published December 3, 2022

306 people are currently reading
63 people want to read

About the author

Ashley A. Quinn

44 books81 followers

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5 stars
278 (62%)
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139 (31%)
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25 (5%)
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1 (<1%)
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Reading by Deb.
1,214 reviews33 followers
December 12, 2022
Piper Riordan was finally back to work after being shot and almost dying three months ago while attending her best friend Shay's wedding. If she hadn't adjusted her position, Shay's psychotic ex-boyfriend would have accomplished what he set out to do. Kill everyone who mattered to Shay.

Only now she just couldn't find her past vivacious self and turns down another after work night of dancing. It didn't help that coming back had been brutal. Her boss didn't care that she had missed work because of a gunshot wound that nearly killed her. No she has had no time off and now her boss is expecting her to work a second shift despite her being bone tired.

She was so over her boss....it was time to make a change and with her mother gone there was nothing to keep her from going anywhere she wanted. Now that Shay was no longer in hiding it was time to move closer to her best friend.

Cullen Tate was just leaving the operating room when he was flagged down by a woman from public relations about a fundraiser she was following up on. He looked at her in shock when she told him it was a bachelor auction and decided he would kill his assistant for telling the bubbly woman his schedule was free. When she pointed out is was for the women's crisis center sheriff Davidson's wife and sister-in-law started he groaned and knew he couldn't back out.

Cullen was a trauma surgeon and the county coroner and rarely dated because the women were only interested in his money and status and bored him to death with inane conversation. Piper is a pharmacy tech determined to loosen up the gorgeous doctor, but things become dangerous when she starts seeing discrepancies in pharmacy records.

I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. I am in love with this series and living in the Smoky Mountains makes these books even more special. Although all of the books have their own story and HEA I would definitely suggest you read the series from book one. The characters in this small town are all recurring and their stories intersect.

This book is action-packed, full of suspense, intrigue and danger and smoking hot chemistry. Ashley A Quinn has written an amazing series full of drama and suspense. Criminal Minds with a sexy romance. Highly recommend! Can't wait for the next book in the series!

Profile Image for books.tea.happy.
580 reviews
November 21, 2022
🏔ARC Review🏔

Advance copy was provided by the author and I happily give my honest opinion.

Smoky Mountain Doctor by @ashleyaquinn.writer

After Piper is shot while visiting her best friend her life at home just Ian the same. She decides to move closer to her friend and start anew. Working in the Pharmacy at the local hospital she bumps in to the Doctor who looked after her when she was hurt and they become friends. They quickly realize how attracted to each other they are and decide to move slowly but they cannot fight the sparks for long. Piper notices some discrepancies at work and informs her boss. It looks like they issue with the medication might also have lead to issues which Cullen has noticed as the local ME. As the investigation progresses Piper’s life becomes fraught with danger and Cullen wants to do anything in his power to help her. There was certainly plenty of intrigue and danger and the story was nicely paced. I enjoyed how natural their relationship was and that there was no big issue between them. I liked how she brought him out of his shell and how he made he feel safe. The ending was a bit abrupt but I assume we will hear more about this couple in the next book in to series. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
279 reviews2 followers
November 30, 2022
When Piper and Cullen first run into each other after Piper decides to move to the area, what a cute interaction. As their talking Piper tells him he needs to get out and have fun. Their first day of “fun” she shows him doesn’t turn out at all as expected but all I can say is WOW for it does end up. As these two are spending what time they can together between Cullen’s busy schedule and getting to know each other better, Piper also discovers some discrepancies that bring her to the attention of some bad guys. While they are trying to start a new relationship and figure what’s going on this leads to action packed drama. From the very beginning this book draws you in and keeps you turning the pages to see what’s going to happen next. I love Piper’s outspokenness but she does find herself in a spot where to she needs to reign it in. And just when you think maybe everything is going to be ok they have another close encounter. Ashley Quinn has brought us another intriguing, exciting and phenomenal read. Piper is my new all-time favorite heroine and I love her with Cullen. You don’t want to miss this read.

Since I started with book 4, I'm definately headed to read the first three.

I received an ARC copy of this book.
1,396 reviews
February 14, 2023
Piper Riordan is a Pharmacy Technician. She relocates to Foggy Mountain because her best friend lives there. She was injured at her friend's wedding in Foggy Mountain in the last book. She is working at the hospital pharmacy. She sees the doctor who treated her when she was injured, Dr. Cullen Tate. Cullen is a wonderful, talented and compassionate physician. He is quite the intellectual and doesn't do great in social situations. They begin to date. Piper discovers something wrong at the hospital and her life is in danger. I really enjoyed the slower pace of this book. The characters were well developed and we got to catch up with characters from previous books in the series. I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy romantic suspense. You could read this book without reading other books in the series but I always recommend starting at the beginning.
Profile Image for Melissa May.
341 reviews4 followers
December 9, 2022
Smoky Mountain Doctor is another awesome addition to the series!
Although you can read it as a standalone I recommended to read the series from the start because of the reappearing characters.
Piper moves to Smoky Mountain for a new start after all she has been through and has a new job in the hospital where she meets Cullen again. He’s the doctor who treated her after she was shot. ( you have to read the previous book to find out that story)
When Piper discoverers something strange is going on in the Hospital’s pharmacy her life is in danger again.
I loved Cullen and Piper’s story and look forward to read the next book in the series!
I received this arc from the author and this review is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for peggylovesbooks.
178 reviews25 followers
December 3, 2022
Cullen and Piper are the best couple ever!

Piper is starting over after being shot, she is living her motto of life is too short, so after meeting Cullen again she strikes up a friendship that leads to romance and some smexy times.

Cullen who is really smart and has difficulty relating to people starts a friendship with Piper and comes out of his boring daily routine to enjoy life with Piper by his side.

When Piper notices a problem in the pharmacy and she becomes a target, Cullen will do anything to protect her.

The story line flowed well, and I was satisfied with the story and was sad that their story had to end.

If you are looking for an age gap, small town romance pick this book up, you will not regret it.
56 reviews
December 3, 2022
I enjoyed reading Piper and Cullen's story. Cullen who doesn't have the social skills to interact with people, to Piper who's friendly and vivacious, it was a geat ride. Throw in some bad guys and romance and it was a grand way to spend a rainy afternoon.

I would like to add however, it would be betterif you read the first 3 books in the series, as the characters are all connected. Piper and Cullen's story also begins in the 3rd book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nicole Potter.
1,574 reviews16 followers
December 3, 2022
Has this socially awkward intellectual found a way to cure his lonely heart?

If you love small town romance that some mystery & suspense then the author has you covered with Piper & Cullen's story. Piper's life has been one pile of crap so far as her mum died then when attending best friend's wedding she nearly dies from being shot. Will a move to be closer to her friend be just what she needs & what about when she runs into the doctor who saved her life?
An awesome 5 star read for me.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,938 reviews8 followers
December 3, 2022
When Piper returns to work after being shot, her boss makes her work every day and also overtime. She just wants a little down time and realizes that she needs a change. When she runs in to her surgeon at the new hospital she is working at, the last things she expects is to need his protection. When she discovers so shady things going on at her new job, her life is put into danger again.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
95 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2022
Piper needs a change so she moves to be closer to her best friend where she runs into Dr. Tate who treated her before. The are complete opposites but fit together perfectly. But Piper is having challenges at her new job, meds come up missing. You get to see characters from previous books to help solve this mystery.
There's suspense, love, loyalty, and friendship in another addition to this great series. Can't wait for more.
Profile Image for BecReadReview.
1,976 reviews35 followers
November 19, 2022
Cullen is smart and so very cute. Piper is sassy and so very fierce. Their getting to know each other & flirting leaves you laughing. Their attraction steamy and the danger that surrounds Piper has you on edge. Another wonderful book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jacqueline Johnston Cotton.
2,293 reviews38 followers
December 10, 2022
What a great setting for this series. Loved the storyline and the characters are easy to relate to. There is a perfect blend of suspense and romance. I enjoyed the twists and turns the characters faced to find their happy ever after. Looking forward to the next book in this series. Fantastic Series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
455 reviews10 followers
December 17, 2022
Meh...

## Just OK. Honestly, this was a little slow for me. The heroine was pushy, and the hero a little boring. Even the crime was a tad boring. In addition, this heroine throws herself at the hero several times and after a couple of dates she actually asks: "Where is this going?" What guy doesn't want to have THAT conversation? Anyway 2.5 stars was all I could manage.
Profile Image for Kathy Zuercher Diveley.
1,634 reviews11 followers
September 1, 2023
Piper and Cullen

Piper met Dr Tate, when she got shot at her best friends wedding. Now she moved to Foggy Mountain, to be near her best friend. Being a pharmacy tech at the hospital he practices at, she sees him often. She starts to draw him out. She confides in him when odd things start to happen in the pharmacy.
Profile Image for love2read.
101 reviews
June 11, 2025
This is my second time reading the Smokey Mountain Doctor. I re-read this after reading Ashley's new book Midnight Secrets which is Oscar Quartermaine's story. Anyway, I had forgotten how much Cullen Tate pulled at my heart strings and how much joy and fun that Piper brought to his life; it made my heart smile. 😆 Read this if you enjoy a heart-warming suspenseful story with a HEA and then be sure to read Midnight Secrets featuring a tiny mischief making Yorkie named Pebbles.
Profile Image for Judy.
2,080 reviews12 followers
December 7, 2022
Piper has been through a lot and she needs a different scenery and job. Cullen is a very good Dr. And the towns mortuary physician. This is just so intriguing, a lot of action, and a clean romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Elaine Davis.
6 reviews6 followers
February 12, 2023
A wonderful read that kept my interest! The characters were well developed and had romance with just enough suspense to make a interesting book all the way through.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
11 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2023
Good book

I have read four of this series of books and liked them. My only two complaints are that they end too abruptly, and they should have been
edited a little closer. Had to go back and figure out what should have been said. Will finish the series
509 reviews4 followers
April 18, 2024
Great story

This story has a lot of danger,suspence, and a little romance, keeping you turning the page to read happens next until the very end looking forward to reading more books from this author
1,083 reviews5 followers
February 18, 2026
Smoky Mountain Doctor



Oh my word…..what a story. Brilliant, loved Cullen and Pipers story. Who knew moving to Foggy Mountain would have such a change in her life. Hardly unpacked before her adventure begins. What a journey..
Profile Image for Rhea Morrigan.
Author 10 books23 followers
February 28, 2026
Smoky Mountain Doctor is a suspenseful and satisfying read. It combines small-town charm, medical drama, and romantic tension in a way that kept me turning pages late into the night.
Cullen Tate is the kind of hero you fall for instantly. He’s smart, kind, and quietly lonely beneath his steady doctor exterior. He brings warmth and heart to every scene he’s in. I loved watching him open up emotionally as he’s drawn into a relationship he never thought he’d have time or room for.

The heroine’s journey is just as compelling. Her mix of vulnerability, resilience, and reluctance to trust again makes her feel real, and the chemistry between her and Cullen jumps off the page without ever feeling forced. Their slow-building bond, set against danger in the Smoky Mountains and the close-knit Foggy Mountain community, gives the story both emotional depth and addictive tension.

The suspense thread weaves seamlessly through the romance, with just enough danger and mystery to keep you guessing while never overshadowing the emotional core of the story. The medical and small-town details add richness and authenticity, making Foggy Mountain feel like a place you could actually visit.
Profile Image for Linda MARIE Pankow.
Author 37 books46 followers
November 21, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

But here's why...

I have been with this series since book one and I just can't stop enjoying them. I look forward to the next one, and loved learning all about the smokey mountain Dr.
Profile Image for NotTheTea.
831 reviews41 followers
February 7, 2023
I don't like drug cartel angle of mysteries. So it's just me problem.
190 reviews
April 15, 2023
So happy to get back into this series. Piper is a pistol. Cullen is VERY likeable. Good plot twist.
Meet two of the characters for the next in the series.
Profile Image for Janice.
3,079 reviews
May 2, 2023
Piper Riordan moves to Foggy Mountain to be closer to her BFF. She's working in the same hospital that treated her after she was shot last year and the doctor who cared for her, Cullen Tate.
133 reviews
July 2, 2023
Wonderful book

Well written, a lot of action. This is a talented author, and you will enjoy this book, with its excellent storyline.
Profile Image for PepperP0t .
5,161 reviews88 followers
March 30, 2025
Returning to work after recovering from a gunshot, pharmacy tech Piper Riordan didn’t have the patience for her boss’ pettiness. Her only relative dead, her best friend in Smoky Mountain, Piper had no roots in NY anymore. Finding a hospital job and good apartment in Smoky Mountain easily put a smile on Piper’s face. Things got better when Piper saw her former surgeon, Dr. Cullen Tate. They saw each other again sooner than their vague promise of soon. Approaching an accident from different directions, they stop to help.

Dinner after led to more meals together, downtime, creating common ground, friendship and work conversations, including Piper relating possible issues with her pharmacy coworkers but she puls Cullen out of his lonely existence. As their thoughts turn toward romance, Piper gets a cryptically threatening note, Cullen has it investigated. They learn Piper’s boss was injured and the pair guess at a connection. When Pper’s car explodes, Piper and Cullen stop wondering if there’s a connection and begin to wonder who and why.
Rating: 4.5stars
Profile Image for Reading by Deb.
1,214 reviews33 followers
December 12, 2022
Piper Riordan was finally back to work after being shot and almost dying three months ago while attending her best friend Shay's wedding. If she hadn't adjusted her position, Shay's psychotic ex-boyfriend would have accomplished what he set out to do. Kill everyone who mattered to Shay.

Only now she just couldn't find her past vivacious self and turns down another after work night of dancing. It didn't help that coming back had been brutal. Her boss didn't care that she had missed work because of a gunshot wound that nearly killed her. No she has had no time off and now her boss is expecting her to work a second shift despite her being bone tired.

She was so over her boss....it was time to make a change and with her mother gone there was nothing to keep her from going anywhere she wanted. Now that Shay was no longer in hiding it was time to move closer to her best friend.

Cullen Tate was just leaving the operating room when he was flagged down by a woman from public relations about a fundraiser she was following up on. He looked at her in shock when she told him it was a bachelor auction and decided he would kill his assistant for telling the bubbly woman his schedule was free. When she pointed out is was for the women's crisis center sheriff Davidson's wife and sister-in-law started he groaned and knew he couldn't back out.

Cullen was a trauma surgeon and the county coroner and rarely dated because the women were only interested in his money and status and bored him to death with inane conversation. Piper is a pharmacy tech determined to loosen up the gorgeous doctor, but things become dangerous when she starts seeing discrepancies in pharmacy records.

I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. I am in love with this series and living in the Smoky Mountains makes these books even more special. Although all of the books have their own story and HEA I would definitely suggest you read the series from book one. The characters in this small town are all recurring and their stories intersect.

This book is action-packed, full of suspense, intrigue and danger and smoking hot chemistry. Ashley A Quinn has written an amazing series full of drama and suspense. Criminal Minds with a sexy romance. Highly recommend! Can't wait for the next book in the series!

Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews

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