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Crescent Pass #2
A Mountain Divides Us
- Kristen -
Eli Andrews wasn’t supposed to be anything other than a temporary roommate.
On paper, it all makes sense. I rent out a room to him to earn some much-needed cash when my work hours get cut. I’ll stay on my side of the house and he’ll stay on his. Away from me and my kids.
But he wasn’t supposed to be tall and gorgeous and make butterflies flutter in my stomach. He wasn’t supposed to be helpful and charming and supportive in a way I didn’t know I needed. He wasn’t supposed to waken that part of me that’s laid dormant for so long, an attraction building between us the longer he stays. I wasn’t supposed to fall under his spell.
Or into his bed.
For years, I’ve made sensible choices. Ones that are best for me and my kids. Ones that don’t involve sexy blue-eyed strangers who are only in town for a month.
Eli Andrews isn’t staying in Crescent Pass. But tell that to my heart.
- Eli -
Kristen Taylor wasn’t supposed to be the woman of my dreams.
On paper, it doesn’t make sense. She’s a widow with two kids, while I’m the guy who avoids relationships. Only, when plans fall through and I’m stuck on a job with nowhere to stay, she’s the one who comes through for me.
But she wasn’t supposed to be so easy to get along with. She wasn’t supposed to show me what a family could really be like. She wasn’t supposed to make my heart pound.
Or tempt me beyond belief.
For years, I’ve kept to myself. It’s safer that way. No one to disappoint or hurt you in return. Besides, I’m not staying in Crescent Pass.
So why can’t I get her out of my head… or my heart?
Eli Andrews wasn’t supposed to be anything other than a temporary roommate.
On paper, it all makes sense. I rent out a room to him to earn some much-needed cash when my work hours get cut. I’ll stay on my side of the house and he’ll stay on his. Away from me and my kids.
But he wasn’t supposed to be tall and gorgeous and make butterflies flutter in my stomach. He wasn’t supposed to be helpful and charming and supportive in a way I didn’t know I needed. He wasn’t supposed to waken that part of me that’s laid dormant for so long, an attraction building between us the longer he stays. I wasn’t supposed to fall under his spell.
Or into his bed.
For years, I’ve made sensible choices. Ones that are best for me and my kids. Ones that don’t involve sexy blue-eyed strangers who are only in town for a month.
Eli Andrews isn’t staying in Crescent Pass. But tell that to my heart.
- Eli -
Kristen Taylor wasn’t supposed to be the woman of my dreams.
On paper, it doesn’t make sense. She’s a widow with two kids, while I’m the guy who avoids relationships. Only, when plans fall through and I’m stuck on a job with nowhere to stay, she’s the one who comes through for me.
But she wasn’t supposed to be so easy to get along with. She wasn’t supposed to show me what a family could really be like. She wasn’t supposed to make my heart pound.
Or tempt me beyond belief.
For years, I’ve kept to myself. It’s safer that way. No one to disappoint or hurt you in return. Besides, I’m not staying in Crescent Pass.
So why can’t I get her out of my head… or my heart?
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2023
26 people are currently reading
665 people want to read
About the author
Allie Winters
19 books187 followersAllie lives in sunny Florida with her husband, daughter, and two cats. A librarian by day, she spends her nights writing happily ever afters. She enjoys reading, playing video games, and all things Disney.
Find out more at alliewinters.com
Find out more at alliewinters.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
March 18, 2023
This book was a sweet, slow burn and so much more than a romance - there was a lot of self discovery for both characters, but especially Kristen. They both needed to find the right person to guide them out of what they expected from their lives.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Kristen is a single (widowed) mom of 6-year old twins (who are totally hilarious and awesome). To make ends meet, she takes in a temporary roommate.
Eli needs a place to stay while he’s on a job in Crescent Pass, and happens to end up at Kristen’s.
Kristen is holding on to baggage from her past, as is Eli. They both avoid relationships. They are instantly drawn to each other, and become friends - and maybe more? Both are hesitant for so many reasons.
They both have secrets and insecurities that impact how they view relationships, and their willingness to take a chance on each other.
Read if you enjoy:
⭐️ Single Mom
⭐️ Roommates
⭐️ Insta-connection/attraction
⭐️ Hilarious 6 year old twins
⭐️ Forced Proximity
⭐️ Small town
⭐️ Dual POV/first person
This follows A Forest Between Us, but can be read as a standalone.
I’m really excited for Abby & Grayson’s story next!
Thank you to Allie Winters for an advanced copy! All opinions are my own.
*check triggers if you have any!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Kristen is a single (widowed) mom of 6-year old twins (who are totally hilarious and awesome). To make ends meet, she takes in a temporary roommate.
Eli needs a place to stay while he’s on a job in Crescent Pass, and happens to end up at Kristen’s.
Kristen is holding on to baggage from her past, as is Eli. They both avoid relationships. They are instantly drawn to each other, and become friends - and maybe more? Both are hesitant for so many reasons.
They both have secrets and insecurities that impact how they view relationships, and their willingness to take a chance on each other.
Read if you enjoy:
⭐️ Single Mom
⭐️ Roommates
⭐️ Insta-connection/attraction
⭐️ Hilarious 6 year old twins
⭐️ Forced Proximity
⭐️ Small town
⭐️ Dual POV/first person
This follows A Forest Between Us, but can be read as a standalone.
I’m really excited for Abby & Grayson’s story next!
Thank you to Allie Winters for an advanced copy! All opinions are my own.
*check triggers if you have any!
April 26, 2023
3.5 stars
This review might end up being all over the place, so let me start by saying I liked Allie Winters' writing style and I loved the characters she created for this romance. Some of the aspects of this book that weren't my favorite are a me thing and I think other GR friends may enjoy this one more than I did so please don't let my rating dissuade you!
A Mountain Divides Us is an adorable, single mom romance that is also roommates to lovers because Kristen (h) and Eli (H) are brought into each other's orbit by Eli's temporary need to be in town for work and Kristen's need for a tenant to bring in extra money. Kristen and Eli were likable, sweet, and I wanted to befriend them (also hug them). Kristen's six year old twins were also stars of this book throughout, esp how they brought Eli into their activities and bonded with him. The formation of their connection as a possible family was just as sweet as the romance. Both Kristen and Eli do have personal hang-ups that cause insecurities and also prevent them from being completely vulnerable with others. Kristen's a widow whose husband wasn't the best and she's struggling financially while also down on her dating prospects. Eli's a nerd who had a glow-up post-college but he was in an accident when he was young that left scars and his last serious relationship left some emotional scars (adding a spoiler related to this below). While this starts out as strangers to friends, this does have insta-attraction with plenty of sexual tension, but it is a slow burn, character-focused story. Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and neither are virgins (h has been celibate since getting pregnant years ago and H only had ONS after a serious relationship ended).
Relationship-wise, I loved Kristen and Eli's slow build to realizing the other also felt the attraction and wanted more. Most of the book though, is them not officially together and I wanted more on page time of them as a couple. Lots of scenes of them being domestic together, cute family moments, and later, steamy times when the kids were gone. It’s worth mentioning that the steam was really excellent. But I personally needed some of these scenes once they're committed to each other and everyone also knows they're together. I also wished that the self-doubt each had was discussed earlier. They both had understandable issues that I felt so much empathy for, but some of their thoughts became repetitive because they were running over the same ground but not communicating those feelings.
The side characters that make up the town and Kristen's family were wonderful. Again, the twins were great characters who had a huge impact on the story and stole scenes. From legos to Mario Kart to bad dream comforting. Her mom is an overbearing force of nature, but her friends are supportive and fun, and her brothers seem loving. The town has gossips and some small town charm. I loved that a couple mean characters were confronted and told off. Eli's former college roommate and his girlfriend were there too, but peripherally. I would have loved to see Eli connect with someone else in the town.
The story ends in what some people would call a HEA but felt more HFN for me. Their whole romance takes place over a few weeks and I would have felt more settled in their HEA with more time spent as a couple and more details of how their plans came to fruition. Still, they're in love, they're a family, and it was very cute. There's also a bonus epilogue for signing up for the author's newsletter, which I'm not sure what that includes and may have these things I wanted more of.
Trigger warnings: infertility, discussion of loss of a spouse
This review might end up being all over the place, so let me start by saying I liked Allie Winters' writing style and I loved the characters she created for this romance. Some of the aspects of this book that weren't my favorite are a me thing and I think other GR friends may enjoy this one more than I did so please don't let my rating dissuade you!
A Mountain Divides Us is an adorable, single mom romance that is also roommates to lovers because Kristen (h) and Eli (H) are brought into each other's orbit by Eli's temporary need to be in town for work and Kristen's need for a tenant to bring in extra money. Kristen and Eli were likable, sweet, and I wanted to befriend them (also hug them). Kristen's six year old twins were also stars of this book throughout, esp how they brought Eli into their activities and bonded with him. The formation of their connection as a possible family was just as sweet as the romance. Both Kristen and Eli do have personal hang-ups that cause insecurities and also prevent them from being completely vulnerable with others. Kristen's a widow whose husband wasn't the best and she's struggling financially while also down on her dating prospects. Eli's a nerd who had a glow-up post-college but he was in an accident when he was young that left scars and his last serious relationship left some emotional scars (adding a spoiler related to this below). While this starts out as strangers to friends, this does have insta-attraction with plenty of sexual tension, but it is a slow burn, character-focused story. Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and neither are virgins (h has been celibate since getting pregnant years ago and H only had ONS after a serious relationship ended).
Relationship-wise, I loved Kristen and Eli's slow build to realizing the other also felt the attraction and wanted more. Most of the book though, is them not officially together and I wanted more on page time of them as a couple. Lots of scenes of them being domestic together, cute family moments, and later, steamy times when the kids were gone. It’s worth mentioning that the steam was really excellent. But I personally needed some of these scenes once they're committed to each other and everyone also knows they're together. I also wished that the self-doubt each had was discussed earlier. They both had understandable issues that I felt so much empathy for, but some of their thoughts became repetitive because they were running over the same ground but not communicating those feelings.
The side characters that make up the town and Kristen's family were wonderful. Again, the twins were great characters who had a huge impact on the story and stole scenes. From legos to Mario Kart to bad dream comforting. Her mom is an overbearing force of nature, but her friends are supportive and fun, and her brothers seem loving. The town has gossips and some small town charm. I loved that a couple mean characters were confronted and told off. Eli's former college roommate and his girlfriend were there too, but peripherally. I would have loved to see Eli connect with someone else in the town.
The story ends in what some people would call a HEA but felt more HFN for me. Their whole romance takes place over a few weeks and I would have felt more settled in their HEA with more time spent as a couple and more details of how their plans came to fruition. Still, they're in love, they're a family, and it was very cute. There's also a bonus epilogue for signing up for the author's newsletter, which I'm not sure what that includes and may have these things I wanted more of.
Trigger warnings: infertility, discussion of loss of a spouse
March 13, 2023
Single Parent romance, yes please!!! Kristen is a single mom to twin 6 year old kids and is super mom with how she does everything on her own. When she has Eli moving in because she needs the money so she rents out a room in her house he was not what she was expecting. Eli is patient, understanding and gets along so well with her kids. They love him and love to have him playing with them whether it's Mario kart, Legos or dinosaurs. Slowly Eli and Kristin grow closer to each other and sparks start flying. They both have pretty crummy pasts but in the end they don't let that affect them or their future together. All around a cute story, the kids were adorable and Eli and Kristen belong together.
March 23, 2023
I enjoyed the first book in this series, A Forest Between Us, and was excited to read this second book where we would get Owen’s sister Kristen’s story. It was definitely fun spending time with her kids and family, the kids stole the show in so many scenes. I loved the connection between Kristen and Eli. Although I feel that as with the last story, I was missing a little bit about Eli’s past to fill in some of his reluctance.
But it wasn’t bad enough that it affected the story at all. Because it wasn’t just Kristen’s connection with Eli, but he was perfect with her kids. I loved how they fell for him right away, even just as a roommate. One thing Jamie said about Eli really cracked me up because it was very similar to something my dad used to say when I was a kid. Jamie says Eli would punch a T-Rex in the throat, and my dad used to always say he’d punch it in the nose, lol.
As with the last one, friends and family made such a great background, extra part of the story. It also means I can’t wait for the next sibling’s story, which I believe is later this year. Another aspect I had an issue with was how long they kept holding out, but it wasn’t too bad. I liked the way that Eli figured out the solution to the seemingly unavoidable end date for their relationship. Anyway, another great read for me, and I hope you’ll give it a try!
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
But it wasn’t bad enough that it affected the story at all. Because it wasn’t just Kristen’s connection with Eli, but he was perfect with her kids. I loved how they fell for him right away, even just as a roommate. One thing Jamie said about Eli really cracked me up because it was very similar to something my dad used to say when I was a kid. Jamie says Eli would punch a T-Rex in the throat, and my dad used to always say he’d punch it in the nose, lol.
As with the last one, friends and family made such a great background, extra part of the story. It also means I can’t wait for the next sibling’s story, which I believe is later this year. Another aspect I had an issue with was how long they kept holding out, but it wasn’t too bad. I liked the way that Eli figured out the solution to the seemingly unavoidable end date for their relationship. Anyway, another great read for me, and I hope you’ll give it a try!
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
March 11, 2023
We met Kristen in Owen and Harper's book and she's a completely exhausted single mom of a set of six year old twins. She's forced to take on a renter because her hours have been cut at work and she still has a household to run. Her irresponsible new tenant falls through five minutes before she was expected to come by and sign her rental forms. The tenant sent someone in her place and that's where we meet our hero, Eli.
Eli is in town for a month to work and ends up becoming more than landlord/tenant with Kristen and her kids. Kristen has been too tired and busy to even think about dating and Eli's relationship self esteem was absolutely nuked by a prior partner a few years ago. He falls in love with all three of them despite his best efforts.
I don't feel like this is a plot spoiler but I never see romances where the man is infertile. It was a nice change. He was in an accident when he was young and that's something that's just not in the cards for him. I thought this was very nicely done. Kudos, Allie.
Speaking of Allie, I messaged her when I was reading and told her I'm pumped about book three because I just love that quiet little librarian, Abby.
Thank you to Allie Winters for a copy in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
Eli is in town for a month to work and ends up becoming more than landlord/tenant with Kristen and her kids. Kristen has been too tired and busy to even think about dating and Eli's relationship self esteem was absolutely nuked by a prior partner a few years ago. He falls in love with all three of them despite his best efforts.
I don't feel like this is a plot spoiler but I never see romances where the man is infertile. It was a nice change. He was in an accident when he was young and that's something that's just not in the cards for him. I thought this was very nicely done. Kudos, Allie.
Speaking of Allie, I messaged her when I was reading and told her I'm pumped about book three because I just love that quiet little librarian, Abby.
Thank you to Allie Winters for a copy in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
March 23, 2023
Once again, huge smile on my face from beginning to end while I read this story. I say “once again” because it’s exactly how I felt when I read the first in this series last year! Thank you, Allie Winters for graciously proving me with an ARC of your story for review!
There is a whole bunch of heart within these pages and it made me so darn happy that Allie wrote this story so organically and true to life. There wasn’t anything overly dramatic for drama’s sake in the story and every character enhanced the storyline and the growth journey between Kristen & Eli. The relationship that grew between Eli and the children was an absolute #swoonfest for me and I appreciated that they were an integral part of the storyline and not just an add-on.
If you’re looking for a sweet and sexy read with relatable circumstances and likeable characters, go do the thing ⇒ Available in Kindle Unlimited: https://amzn.to/3j7pZZ7
There is a whole bunch of heart within these pages and it made me so darn happy that Allie wrote this story so organically and true to life. There wasn’t anything overly dramatic for drama’s sake in the story and every character enhanced the storyline and the growth journey between Kristen & Eli. The relationship that grew between Eli and the children was an absolute #swoonfest for me and I appreciated that they were an integral part of the storyline and not just an add-on.
If you’re looking for a sweet and sexy read with relatable circumstances and likeable characters, go do the thing ⇒ Available in Kindle Unlimited: https://amzn.to/3j7pZZ7
October 8, 2023
4.5⭐️ *Arc Review*
I absolutely love kids in a book when they are done right. Jenny and Jamie were absolutely beautiful written and I fell in love with them immediately. Throw in a single parent and you have me. Kristen is the definition of a great realistic mom that struggles with mom guilt and is just so relatable. Eli is an amazing nerdy turned hot mmc that prefers to be alone after some tragic past events. I loved that he had his own struggles and that he got to work through them by throwing himself into this found family. Another trope I absolutely love. This book had definitely more emotions than the first one but it was just as good.
Thank you Allie Winter for the eArc of this book.
I absolutely love kids in a book when they are done right. Jenny and Jamie were absolutely beautiful written and I fell in love with them immediately. Throw in a single parent and you have me. Kristen is the definition of a great realistic mom that struggles with mom guilt and is just so relatable. Eli is an amazing nerdy turned hot mmc that prefers to be alone after some tragic past events. I loved that he had his own struggles and that he got to work through them by throwing himself into this found family. Another trope I absolutely love. This book had definitely more emotions than the first one but it was just as good.
Thank you Allie Winter for the eArc of this book.
March 21, 2023
A mountain divides us was a complete joy to read. Allie Winters is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. We met Kristen and her twins in Harper & Owen’s story. She’s a single super mom doing it all on her own always putting her kids first, when she decides to rent out one of their rooms for extra money. Eli moves in and their relationship starts to bloom, eventually neither are able to deny their attraction for each other. I loved how patient, kind and selfless Eli was, including loving her kids. Kristen and Eli were made for each other.
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 30, 2023
the tension in this was just… chef’s kiss. felt the tingling from my fingertips to the tips of my toes!!! kristen and eli were so cute and their love was just too wholesome and organic.
January 18, 2025
2023 review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A steamy slowburn contemporary romance, and the second book in the Crescent Pass series, A Mountain Divides Us follows (widowed) single mom, Kristen, and perpetual bachelor, Eli.
And just like A Forest Between Us, I was completely and utterly immersed in the story!
The mutual pining comes in hot with these two, but unfortunately, both have a bit of baggage and insecurities they need to work through. But with the forced proximity of the roommate situation, it didn't take long for them to start craving each other as well as present their emotional scars.
Kristen is such a strong and independent character, finding herself in a financial situation as well as raising twins on her own, but she just keeps going and doing what she can do.
Eli is pure true gold! He just radiates this calming presence, along with his patience for the 6-year-old twins and his subtle understanding of Kristen's needs. He didn't once hesitate to drop everything for her or "his family."
I absolutely love how we can see both a solid friendship as well as a romantic relationship between these two.
I enjoyed the build-up, I appreciated the spice, and I adored the couple. There's also no drama..."third act breakup" free babyy!
Now I just simply can't wait for Abby and Greyson's story :)
*𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘪𝘯-𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸*
A steamy slowburn contemporary romance, and the second book in the Crescent Pass series, A Mountain Divides Us follows (widowed) single mom, Kristen, and perpetual bachelor, Eli.
And just like A Forest Between Us, I was completely and utterly immersed in the story!
The mutual pining comes in hot with these two, but unfortunately, both have a bit of baggage and insecurities they need to work through. But with the forced proximity of the roommate situation, it didn't take long for them to start craving each other as well as present their emotional scars.
Kristen is such a strong and independent character, finding herself in a financial situation as well as raising twins on her own, but she just keeps going and doing what she can do.
Eli is pure true gold! He just radiates this calming presence, along with his patience for the 6-year-old twins and his subtle understanding of Kristen's needs. He didn't once hesitate to drop everything for her or "his family."
I absolutely love how we can see both a solid friendship as well as a romantic relationship between these two.
I enjoyed the build-up, I appreciated the spice, and I adored the couple. There's also no drama..."third act breakup" free babyy!
Now I just simply can't wait for Abby and Greyson's story :)
*𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘪𝘯-𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸*
March 24, 2023
Oh so delicious
5 stars
I have loved near everything that Allie Winters has written but this book carved a special place in my heart - I just adored it. It tells the story of single mum, Kristen, and her temporary lodger, Eli. While it’s the second book in the Crescent Pass series - and Owen and Harper from the first book (A Forest Between Us) do appear, it completely stands alone and has its own HEA.
Kristen is a harried single parent of two rambunctious 6 year olds who needs to make some extra money by renting out a room in her house. But instead of the woman she was expecting to become her roommate, she instead gets sexy, sweet and tempting Eli.
While I may not have much in common with Kristen, I liked her from the first. She always felt like she was on the back foot but man did she hustle for her kids. She had a fair amount of insecurities, frustrations and hang-ups but she never came across as anything other than the sweet, determined, kind and spirited woman she was. I imagine that other mums will totally connect with her about the mum guilt - but even non-parents will love her like I did.
Eli was, well, I don’t really know how to describe him other than to say that if it wasn’t for Kristen, I’d want him for my very own. Growing up, Eli was a certified geek but as an adult, he’s a geek with the body of a god! But there was just something so sweet about him that I just adored. He was kind, caring and also a little bit broken. Seeing his heart swell as he becomes part of this little family was everything. He, like Kristen, had his hang-ups making him vulnerable, too, which was nice to see and made him feel real to me. But the cherry on the top was the kind of take charge, dirty talker he was in the bedroom. Be still my hot but geeky, dirty talking hero heart!
While I loved Kristen and Eli separately, together is where they shine. Allie Winters writing made the attraction between our pair both subtle and stark right from the get go. Watching them dance around each other as their friendship, feelings and attraction grew was just so wonderful - my feels were tingling the whole time. And while it takes time to build up to the sex, there’s plenty of shenanigans before the big event and it is hot enough on its own to keep me more than happy. I’m not sure if Allie Winters has always written sex this well or if I just loved Eli and Kristen so much that it resonated with me. Either way - yum!
On paper, I admit that this is a book that has a few tropes I usually steer clear of: single parent, children, widow. But in the end, absolutely none of those things bothered me. In fact, I loved Kirsten, I loved those kids and the widow thing played out exactly the way that I would want it to. What I’m trying to say is that if you, too, have reservations about those things, ignore them and read this book!
I also loved that there was no unnecessary drama. There was a nice layer of angst as we wonder how and if our couple are going to make it work - which played into both of their fears wonderfully. Not that I want my characters to be emotionally tortured but in this case, it really brought forth the feelings between our pair and so in me, too! There was some talk about the short time of the relationship between Eli and Kristen before they fell in love - but in all honesty, if the author hadn’t mentioned the time frame, I wouldn’t have noticed it and I certainly didn’t feel it was a short time frame while I was reading.
I have to say, I think this is my favourite book from Allie Winters and the best book she’s written to date. I can’t wait to read the next book in the Crescent Pass series, not only to read about the next couple from this adorable small town, but also to catch back up with Kristen and Elie, Jamie and Jenny. If you’re looking for a fun, emotional and heart-warming romance then I will happily recommend this book to you - go grab it now!
April 3, 2023
Overall Grade: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Tropes: single parent (mom); slow burn; forced proximity; small-town romance; insta-attraction; wounded hero; found family
Allie Winters’s A Mountain Divides Us, book 2 of her A Crescent Pass series, is exponentially stronger than book 1 of the series. From the outset, Winters has crafted a clear chemistry between Kristen, a single mom of twins, and Eli, an unexpected visitor turned roommate. Through her careful characterization, Winters has created Kristen as a woman who feels as though she can only count on herself to provide for and raise her children. While she has a strong family, Kristen believes people will disappoint and leave her, this having been taught to her through the deaths of her father and husband. As such, Winters has infused her with a stubbornness in the face of Eli.
From the moment they meet, it’s clear that Eli and Kristen are drawn to each other, and Winters takes the span of much of A Mountain Divides Us to bring the together. Overall, her romance is sweet with small helping of spice…eventually.
I enjoyed this book more than book 1 which I thought had some issues with development, and A Mountain Divides Us has more story development on the front end, as she builds her slo- burn romance. However, once Eli and Kristen figure their “ish” out, it drops off quickly, and the story comes to a quick end. Yes, there is the promise of an HEA, but I thought it could have had more story development after they realize they can be together. It’s a bit too neat.
I found Allie Winters’s A Mountain Divides Us to be a sweet romance. Kristen’s struggles did have a tendency to become frustrating, but Winters’s character development of Eli balances that struggle. In fact, Eli is a huge reason to read this book. If you’re a fan of small-town romance, you will like this book.
Tropes: single parent (mom); slow burn; forced proximity; small-town romance; insta-attraction; wounded hero; found family
Allie Winters’s A Mountain Divides Us, book 2 of her A Crescent Pass series, is exponentially stronger than book 1 of the series. From the outset, Winters has crafted a clear chemistry between Kristen, a single mom of twins, and Eli, an unexpected visitor turned roommate. Through her careful characterization, Winters has created Kristen as a woman who feels as though she can only count on herself to provide for and raise her children. While she has a strong family, Kristen believes people will disappoint and leave her, this having been taught to her through the deaths of her father and husband. As such, Winters has infused her with a stubbornness in the face of Eli.
From the moment they meet, it’s clear that Eli and Kristen are drawn to each other, and Winters takes the span of much of A Mountain Divides Us to bring the together. Overall, her romance is sweet with small helping of spice…eventually.
I enjoyed this book more than book 1 which I thought had some issues with development, and A Mountain Divides Us has more story development on the front end, as she builds her slo- burn romance. However, once Eli and Kristen figure their “ish” out, it drops off quickly, and the story comes to a quick end. Yes, there is the promise of an HEA, but I thought it could have had more story development after they realize they can be together. It’s a bit too neat.
I found Allie Winters’s A Mountain Divides Us to be a sweet romance. Kristen’s struggles did have a tendency to become frustrating, but Winters’s character development of Eli balances that struggle. In fact, Eli is a huge reason to read this book. If you’re a fan of small-town romance, you will like this book.
March 21, 2023
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this book.
A Mountain Divides Us is a charming, heartfelt story about single mom Kristen and her journey of self-discovery. Things start off difficult for the devoted mother when she finds herself in financial ruin and renting out part of her home to newly arrived Eli, unexpectedly. From there sparks begin to fly as this unlikely couple learn more about each other and soon discover that fate has thrown them together for a reason.
The characters are engaging and relatable, likeable enough but with plenty of flaws that make their growth throughout the novel believablesticking points both amusingly poignant. The slowburning romance between Kristen and Eli develops naturally through witty dialogue peppered with tender moments while they navigate past hurts attheir growing feelings cautiously yet eagerly all at once! The most important thing I loved about this book is those cute, sweet and troublemaker heathens (as Kristen calls them haha) and how Eli was so patient and loving around them despite not having any of that in his own life.
Throughout every page, this book weaves an uplifting message - it’s never too late to find your true potential and perhaps even love along the way when least expected, making twixt sweetheart saga one you won't want to miss!
A Mountain Divides Us is a charming, heartfelt story about single mom Kristen and her journey of self-discovery. Things start off difficult for the devoted mother when she finds herself in financial ruin and renting out part of her home to newly arrived Eli, unexpectedly. From there sparks begin to fly as this unlikely couple learn more about each other and soon discover that fate has thrown them together for a reason.
The characters are engaging and relatable, likeable enough but with plenty of flaws that make their growth throughout the novel believablesticking points both amusingly poignant. The slowburning romance between Kristen and Eli develops naturally through witty dialogue peppered with tender moments while they navigate past hurts attheir growing feelings cautiously yet eagerly all at once! The most important thing I loved about this book is those cute, sweet and troublemaker heathens (as Kristen calls them haha) and how Eli was so patient and loving around them despite not having any of that in his own life.
Throughout every page, this book weaves an uplifting message - it’s never too late to find your true potential and perhaps even love along the way when least expected, making twixt sweetheart saga one you won't want to miss!
March 26, 2023
Allie Winters is the queeeeen of writing sweet heroes in romance novels! After reading 'A Forest Between Us' last year, I didn't think I'd ever find a hero sweeter than Owen, but Eli really gave Owen a run for his money... the things that this man does for Kristen and for her kids!? STOP I'M OBSESSED. The standard has been raised once again.
'A Mountain Divides Us' is the second book in the Crescent Pass series by Allie Winters, and it was such a joy to return to this small town with the most wholesome characters. I really enjoyed the writing in this book, the characters (especially the kids), and the romance was SO sweet and SO swoony. I loved that both Kristen and Eli were so thoughtful and compassionate towards one another - that made the romance 10 times better. I also loved Kristen's relationship with her friends - seeing women supporting women and being there for one another is always so heartwarming. It was also so lovely to see the characters from the previous book again.
Allie Winters is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors, and I can't wait for the next book in this series!
Thank you so much to Allie Winters for an ARC of this book.
'A Mountain Divides Us' is the second book in the Crescent Pass series by Allie Winters, and it was such a joy to return to this small town with the most wholesome characters. I really enjoyed the writing in this book, the characters (especially the kids), and the romance was SO sweet and SO swoony. I loved that both Kristen and Eli were so thoughtful and compassionate towards one another - that made the romance 10 times better. I also loved Kristen's relationship with her friends - seeing women supporting women and being there for one another is always so heartwarming. It was also so lovely to see the characters from the previous book again.
Allie Winters is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors, and I can't wait for the next book in this series!
Thank you so much to Allie Winters for an ARC of this book.
March 23, 2023
I absolutely adored this book and that added heat, ooowee 🔥.
I couldn't put it down!! The slow build, the personal struggles, the family dynamic, and all the love were well written and very relatable. A Mountain Divides Us was such a down to earth real love story. I highly recommend, you will not be disappointed!! Allie Winters dug deep and left this fairytale right in my heart.
I love how well Eli and Kristen complimented each other in every way. Kristen was easily relatable, I'm not a single parent, however, I know how hard it is to always what to protect and do what's right for your kids. I loved this about her. Eli, oh man, he was a dream from the moment we met him. It was simply delightful how he went from questioning his presence in the house to jumping into a supportive role for both Kristen and the twins. Let's not forget about Kristens family, her mother and Harper were to funny and the protective brothers fit so well on Grayson and Owen.
All around wonderful book!! Read it!! Then go read more by Allie! This is my second book of hers and I plan to continue reading more.
- @over.booked.mom
I couldn't put it down!! The slow build, the personal struggles, the family dynamic, and all the love were well written and very relatable. A Mountain Divides Us was such a down to earth real love story. I highly recommend, you will not be disappointed!! Allie Winters dug deep and left this fairytale right in my heart.
I love how well Eli and Kristen complimented each other in every way. Kristen was easily relatable, I'm not a single parent, however, I know how hard it is to always what to protect and do what's right for your kids. I loved this about her. Eli, oh man, he was a dream from the moment we met him. It was simply delightful how he went from questioning his presence in the house to jumping into a supportive role for both Kristen and the twins. Let's not forget about Kristens family, her mother and Harper were to funny and the protective brothers fit so well on Grayson and Owen.
All around wonderful book!! Read it!! Then go read more by Allie! This is my second book of hers and I plan to continue reading more.
- @over.booked.mom
March 16, 2023
This was a sweet and spicy small town romance. I’m not the biggest fan of instant love but the slow steamy burn offset my aversion. Kristen and Eli are adorable and have a lot of chemistry but my favorite characters were the twins! Allie did an amazing job capturing that childhood spirit without making them annoying. There was reference to Kristen and Eli getting to know each other during their nightly conversations on the couch after he kids had gone to sleep but the reader is not privy to those conversations. I think if we would have had scenes of them talking and getting to know each other it would have given their romance more depth. Otherwise I enjoyed this book it was a quick and easy read with a happy ending. Oh and its a slow burn with no action before the 50% mark and she strings you along for a grand finally. It gives me Hallmark movie vibes but with spice!
Book Tropes: Small town romance, single mom, perpetual bachelor, roommates to lovers, forced proximity, emotional damage, slow burn, mutual pining, found family
Review: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ /🌶🌶🌶
Book Tropes: Small town romance, single mom, perpetual bachelor, roommates to lovers, forced proximity, emotional damage, slow burn, mutual pining, found family
Review: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ /🌶🌶🌶
March 26, 2023
*Firstly thank you Allie Winters for the Arc.*
After reading the first book in this series, A Forest Between Us and enjoying it, I was really looking forward to this one. I love reading a stand-alone series, especially when it’s involves a small town. Unfortunately I didn’t love this one but I liked elements of it.
In the beginning I liked Kristen and Eli, they both seemed kind of lonely. You could instantly feel an attraction between the two of them and I was really hoping for a slow burn. That didn’t happen. I feel like things were moving really fast.
Spoilers ahead!!
Within the first two week the two of them were already doing the dance with no pants. I really thought it would take longer than that, especially with Kristen being a single mom. Besides their relationship being on hyper speed, there were very cute moments with Eli and Kristen’s kids. It was pretty cute watching them grow into a family. We also get to see some favorites from the first book.
Overall, this one wasn’t my favorite but it was still an easy stand-alone read with spice, forced proximity, single parent, and my personal favorite small town.
After reading the first book in this series, A Forest Between Us and enjoying it, I was really looking forward to this one. I love reading a stand-alone series, especially when it’s involves a small town. Unfortunately I didn’t love this one but I liked elements of it.
In the beginning I liked Kristen and Eli, they both seemed kind of lonely. You could instantly feel an attraction between the two of them and I was really hoping for a slow burn. That didn’t happen. I feel like things were moving really fast.
Spoilers ahead!!
Within the first two week the two of them were already doing the dance with no pants. I really thought it would take longer than that, especially with Kristen being a single mom. Besides their relationship being on hyper speed, there were very cute moments with Eli and Kristen’s kids. It was pretty cute watching them grow into a family. We also get to see some favorites from the first book.
Overall, this one wasn’t my favorite but it was still an easy stand-alone read with spice, forced proximity, single parent, and my personal favorite small town.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2023
3.0 stars. Another cute, small town romance. This one I felt leaned more towards fairytale. A widowed mom of 2 rambunctious 6 yr old twins is looking for a renter for some much needed extra cash.
After a switcharoo, hot, nerdy, too good to be true geologist/Eli ends up renting the room. After just a few weeks, he's ready to commit to this ready made family. And its all in for a happily ever after.
After a switcharoo, hot, nerdy, too good to be true geologist/Eli ends up renting the room. After just a few weeks, he's ready to commit to this ready made family. And its all in for a happily ever after.
May 23, 2023
It honestly was GREAT at the beginning but the end just was meh for me. I was so excited for the ending but I just didn't love it. It was def a light read but I needed that today so 3 stars for me :)
March 25, 2023
When life throws you lemons, you'll find any way you can to make lemonade for as long as you can. Throw in a muscular HOT nerd and a family he never knew he wanted or needed. Sparks fly hot in this one. Not only with the couple but the kids who need a good male figure in their life. Great story.
March 23, 2023
A Mountain Divides Us (ARC review)
This book blew my mind. Kristen and Eli were perfect for eachother. I couldn't love them more than I already do. Eli is so helpful, caring and supportive. Tries hard to keep his interest for Kristen hidden just cause he believes she won't feel the same. Kristen is a wonderful woman and an even more wonderful mother. Always put her kids above everything and everyone. She has left all her needs and wants behind just so her kids can have anything they want and deserve. When Eli comes suddenly she finds herself wanting him something that haven't happened in a long time. Both of them are fighting their feelings and mutual attraction just so they won't ruin their friendship and confuse little Jenny and Jamie. Those two have formed such a beautiful relationship and I loved how they slowly explored their feelings for eachother. Their moments were so pure and special and what they felt for eachother only got stronger. The bond Eli created with Jenny and Jamie was my favorite, I loved how that man would do anything for them and always spent his time with the kids. I loved how the kids made him want the family he never thought he'd have. Kristen and Eli were made for eachother and I'm so happy that they had their perfect ending and that they loved eachother as much as they did.
Book by: Allie Winters
Tropes:
• Small town romance
• Single parent
• Forced proximity
• Roommates to lovers
• Friends to lovers
• Slowburn
• Mutual pining
My rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 1,5/5 🔥
This book blew my mind. Kristen and Eli were perfect for eachother. I couldn't love them more than I already do. Eli is so helpful, caring and supportive. Tries hard to keep his interest for Kristen hidden just cause he believes she won't feel the same. Kristen is a wonderful woman and an even more wonderful mother. Always put her kids above everything and everyone. She has left all her needs and wants behind just so her kids can have anything they want and deserve. When Eli comes suddenly she finds herself wanting him something that haven't happened in a long time. Both of them are fighting their feelings and mutual attraction just so they won't ruin their friendship and confuse little Jenny and Jamie. Those two have formed such a beautiful relationship and I loved how they slowly explored their feelings for eachother. Their moments were so pure and special and what they felt for eachother only got stronger. The bond Eli created with Jenny and Jamie was my favorite, I loved how that man would do anything for them and always spent his time with the kids. I loved how the kids made him want the family he never thought he'd have. Kristen and Eli were made for eachother and I'm so happy that they had their perfect ending and that they loved eachother as much as they did.
Book by: Allie Winters
Tropes:
• Small town romance
• Single parent
• Forced proximity
• Roommates to lovers
• Friends to lovers
• Slowburn
• Mutual pining
My rating: 5/5 ⭐️
Spice level: 1,5/5 🔥
March 23, 2023
4 ⭐️
Allie Winters is back with the latest book in her Crescent Pass series and it did not disappoint. I had been looking forward to this book since the moment I finished the last one. I'm not even joking when I say I was basically st@lking Allie's socials to see when we were going to get Kristen's story AND you're telling me she gave me single parent/forced proximity in this little small-town?! SOLD. INSTANTLY. It was everything I could have wanted. Just a wonderful sweet & spicy slow-burn romance. This is definitely a series worth checking out if you're in your small-town romance era like me. I can't wait for the next one!
Allie Winters is back with the latest book in her Crescent Pass series and it did not disappoint. I had been looking forward to this book since the moment I finished the last one. I'm not even joking when I say I was basically st@lking Allie's socials to see when we were going to get Kristen's story AND you're telling me she gave me single parent/forced proximity in this little small-town?! SOLD. INSTANTLY. It was everything I could have wanted. Just a wonderful sweet & spicy slow-burn romance. This is definitely a series worth checking out if you're in your small-town romance era like me. I can't wait for the next one!
June 6, 2023
"I still don’t understand what he sees in me, why he’d want to continue this"
Basically the plot of the majority of the book. It was fine. It was a cute quick read. I feel like there is some depth that is lacking but maybe that's on purpose. Maybe it was just meant to be a lighter read. Idk. I didn't love it but it wasn't bad.
Basically the plot of the majority of the book. It was fine. It was a cute quick read. I feel like there is some depth that is lacking but maybe that's on purpose. Maybe it was just meant to be a lighter read. Idk. I didn't love it but it wasn't bad.
March 23, 2023
A sweeet romance.
Kristen Taylor's job has changed her hours to part-time and she is forced to take in a renter to make some money. It is either that or move in with her mother, which is absolutely her last resort. Kristen even agreed to take in the local busy body for the next few months -- desperate times and all -- but at the last minute Sheila made up with her boyfriend and sent an old college roommate over instead.
Taking in an unknown male was not what Kristen was agreeing to, especially with six-year-old twins in house, but Eli arrives so tired from his last few days of work and travel, they agree to at least let him spend the night. When Eli awakes after his much needed sleep and looks into the tiny faces trying really hard not to wake him but too curious not too, he never realizes that his life is about to be turned upside down.
Kristen and Eli agree to he can stay for the few weeks he needs to complete his work. Eli is a geological engineer and needs to verify that a new hotel can build where they are planning. He plans to stay out of Kristen's hair and Kristen intends to keep her rambunctious twins out of Eli's personal space. First it is fresh coffee in the mornings and warm homemade dinners from Kristen, and car repairs by Eli that begins their blossoming friendship, but it is time with Kristen and her kids that Eli begins to truly look forward to each evening.
Eli will never have kids of his own, a serious car accident years ago made sure of that, so he gave up on dreams of ever having a family of his own. He just never gave any thought that maybe there was a family already out there just waiting for him to show up.
THOUGTHTS:
This is such a sweet romance, not just with Kristen and Eli but the strong family bonds that grow between Eli and the children as well. As a confirmed bachelor, Eli was never annoyed by being awoken by the kids or dragged into their playtime or boo-boos. The closest thing to yelling is when Eli steps on some legos left on the floor, and we all know how painful that is. Eli seamlessly blends into this little family. He is their missing puzzle piece.
I sometimes grumble with stupid plot points and wonder why we can't just have a nice romance. Here we had the lovely build of this new family bond and our biggest problems are that Kristen doesn't believe she is worth dating because she has children. Eli doesn't believe, due to his accident and scarring, that he will ever be loved or have a family of his own. So we have two people who are falling in love but don't believe they are worthy of love. Not only do we have a self-esteem problem, but A Mountain Divides Us is literal. The tiny town of Crescent Pass is in the middle of nowhere and Eli lives hours away in Eugene. Eli has nothing but a lonely apartment to go back home to but the problem is that Eli's degree is very specialized. There aren't any jobs in Crescent Pass for a geological engineer. One thing that pisses me off in any story, is when a character such as Kristen says "I can't uproot us and move to Eugene." Yes, this is a Crescent Pass series story but really, you meet a wonderful man who loves you and your kids, and your kids love him too and you won't even discuss uprooting six year olds and move them to a bigger city. They will make new friends and besides everyone in Crescent Pass it way too nosy for anyone's good. I just feel it's an unreasonable impediment to a HEA. There was no real reason to unjustly turn down the move except fear. It's not like he asked her to leave the country.
Kristen, Eli, Jenny and Jamie becoming a family unit was just so lovely to watch. It was an easy read and I would highly recommend it.
Received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Kristen Taylor's job has changed her hours to part-time and she is forced to take in a renter to make some money. It is either that or move in with her mother, which is absolutely her last resort. Kristen even agreed to take in the local busy body for the next few months -- desperate times and all -- but at the last minute Sheila made up with her boyfriend and sent an old college roommate over instead.
Taking in an unknown male was not what Kristen was agreeing to, especially with six-year-old twins in house, but Eli arrives so tired from his last few days of work and travel, they agree to at least let him spend the night. When Eli awakes after his much needed sleep and looks into the tiny faces trying really hard not to wake him but too curious not too, he never realizes that his life is about to be turned upside down.
Kristen and Eli agree to he can stay for the few weeks he needs to complete his work. Eli is a geological engineer and needs to verify that a new hotel can build where they are planning. He plans to stay out of Kristen's hair and Kristen intends to keep her rambunctious twins out of Eli's personal space. First it is fresh coffee in the mornings and warm homemade dinners from Kristen, and car repairs by Eli that begins their blossoming friendship, but it is time with Kristen and her kids that Eli begins to truly look forward to each evening.
Eli will never have kids of his own, a serious car accident years ago made sure of that, so he gave up on dreams of ever having a family of his own. He just never gave any thought that maybe there was a family already out there just waiting for him to show up.
THOUGTHTS:
This is such a sweet romance, not just with Kristen and Eli but the strong family bonds that grow between Eli and the children as well. As a confirmed bachelor, Eli was never annoyed by being awoken by the kids or dragged into their playtime or boo-boos. The closest thing to yelling is when Eli steps on some legos left on the floor, and we all know how painful that is. Eli seamlessly blends into this little family. He is their missing puzzle piece.
I sometimes grumble with stupid plot points and wonder why we can't just have a nice romance. Here we had the lovely build of this new family bond and our biggest problems are that Kristen doesn't believe she is worth dating because she has children. Eli doesn't believe, due to his accident and scarring, that he will ever be loved or have a family of his own. So we have two people who are falling in love but don't believe they are worthy of love. Not only do we have a self-esteem problem, but A Mountain Divides Us is literal. The tiny town of Crescent Pass is in the middle of nowhere and Eli lives hours away in Eugene. Eli has nothing but a lonely apartment to go back home to but the problem is that Eli's degree is very specialized. There aren't any jobs in Crescent Pass for a geological engineer. One thing that pisses me off in any story, is when a character such as Kristen says "I can't uproot us and move to Eugene." Yes, this is a Crescent Pass series story but really, you meet a wonderful man who loves you and your kids, and your kids love him too and you won't even discuss uprooting six year olds and move them to a bigger city. They will make new friends and besides everyone in Crescent Pass it way too nosy for anyone's good. I just feel it's an unreasonable impediment to a HEA. There was no real reason to unjustly turn down the move except fear. It's not like he asked her to leave the country.
Kristen, Eli, Jenny and Jamie becoming a family unit was just so lovely to watch. It was an easy read and I would highly recommend it.
Received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2023
***4.5 Stars***
Ok. So, this book was a lot of fun. I have a thing for single parents, small towns and relatives and friends who can’t seem to mind their own business, and this one is chock full of all that goodness, but boy, was the whiplash real as Eli and Kristen navigated their way to their HEA.
I honestly adored both Eli and Kristen. Kristen is all about her kids and making sure they are happy and healthy. And while she is all about being an independent woman, she knows that she can’t do it all and maintain her sanity and will ask for help when she needs it. Eli is a sweetheart. Easy going, kind and way more than he appears to be in every way. I loved how he went with the flow, but had no issue speaking his mind when it mattered.
As for their journey. Yes they gave me all kinds of whiplash with their conversations in their heads with themselves, but they both came by it honestly. They both have their own issues that have given them major tunnel vision about who they are supposed to be and how their lives will play out. But when they stopped thinking and just rolled with it, they were awesome together. I loved their bantering and how they saw each other for exactly who they were and liked what they saw. Thankfully, they worked things out and I loved how things turned out for them.
This was a fun read, frustrating at times but fun. The pacing did slow a bit for me with inner monologuing that Eli and Kristen did, but since they couldn’t really help it, it is what it is. The angst ~ regardless of the push/pull going on ~ was low, but there was just enough drama to keep things interesting. I loved Jamie and while Jenny was a handful, I loved her sass and it was fun to catch up with Owen, Harper and Cheryl was definitely in top form. But now we have Abby and Grayson left and we’ll just have to wait and see where things go with them.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
Ok. So, this book was a lot of fun. I have a thing for single parents, small towns and relatives and friends who can’t seem to mind their own business, and this one is chock full of all that goodness, but boy, was the whiplash real as Eli and Kristen navigated their way to their HEA.
I honestly adored both Eli and Kristen. Kristen is all about her kids and making sure they are happy and healthy. And while she is all about being an independent woman, she knows that she can’t do it all and maintain her sanity and will ask for help when she needs it. Eli is a sweetheart. Easy going, kind and way more than he appears to be in every way. I loved how he went with the flow, but had no issue speaking his mind when it mattered.
As for their journey. Yes they gave me all kinds of whiplash with their conversations in their heads with themselves, but they both came by it honestly. They both have their own issues that have given them major tunnel vision about who they are supposed to be and how their lives will play out. But when they stopped thinking and just rolled with it, they were awesome together. I loved their bantering and how they saw each other for exactly who they were and liked what they saw. Thankfully, they worked things out and I loved how things turned out for them.
This was a fun read, frustrating at times but fun. The pacing did slow a bit for me with inner monologuing that Eli and Kristen did, but since they couldn’t really help it, it is what it is. The angst ~ regardless of the push/pull going on ~ was low, but there was just enough drama to keep things interesting. I loved Jamie and while Jenny was a handful, I loved her sass and it was fun to catch up with Owen, Harper and Cheryl was definitely in top form. But now we have Abby and Grayson left and we’ll just have to wait and see where things go with them.
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
April 16, 2023
Title: A Mountain Divides Us (Crescent Pass Book 2)
Author: Allie Winters
Hero/Heroine: Eli & Kristen
Tropes: Small Town, Roommates to Lovers, Single Parent,
tw/cw: mention of drink driving, death of a spouse (off page), death of a parent (off page), infertility
✨ the good ✨
I loved revisiting Crescent Pass in this single parent, roommates to lovers romance. The portrayal of dealing with single parenthood and navigating a new relationship added a realistic layer to this wonderful story.
Kristen is down on her luck and finances so has had to resort to taking in a lodger in order to keep a roof over hers and her children’s heads. When Eli arrives at her door, she gets the most unexpected (and hot) surprise. A geotechnical engineer (yeah I have no idea what this is either) on assignment in Crescent Pass, he’s prepared to arrive, do the job he’s been given and then leave. You know what they say, the best laid plans never work out.
I forget how much I love single parent romances. It adds a bit of realism to a story, and it especially did in this feel good romance. Eli and Kristen were so honest and unguarded, both dealing with the effects of events from their past. Watching them grow closer and confide in each other was amazing to see. Also, Eli proved just how hot nerdy guys are, I mean, hot diggity damn, this man brought on all manner of hot flushes, not gonna lie.
Realistic, feel good and sweet, A Mountain Divides Us was a great addition to the Crescent Pass series. Bring on Grayson and Abby’s story is all I’m sayin’.
✨ the bad ✨
That I don’t have a spare room to rent to a stupidly hot geotechnical engineer. But whatever.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨ overall thoughts: wonderfully sweet and addictive single parent romance
✨ steam level: 🔥🔥🔥
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Allie Winters
Hero/Heroine: Eli & Kristen
Tropes: Small Town, Roommates to Lovers, Single Parent,
tw/cw: mention of drink driving, death of a spouse (off page), death of a parent (off page), infertility
✨ the good ✨
I loved revisiting Crescent Pass in this single parent, roommates to lovers romance. The portrayal of dealing with single parenthood and navigating a new relationship added a realistic layer to this wonderful story.
Kristen is down on her luck and finances so has had to resort to taking in a lodger in order to keep a roof over hers and her children’s heads. When Eli arrives at her door, she gets the most unexpected (and hot) surprise. A geotechnical engineer (yeah I have no idea what this is either) on assignment in Crescent Pass, he’s prepared to arrive, do the job he’s been given and then leave. You know what they say, the best laid plans never work out.
I forget how much I love single parent romances. It adds a bit of realism to a story, and it especially did in this feel good romance. Eli and Kristen were so honest and unguarded, both dealing with the effects of events from their past. Watching them grow closer and confide in each other was amazing to see. Also, Eli proved just how hot nerdy guys are, I mean, hot diggity damn, this man brought on all manner of hot flushes, not gonna lie.
Realistic, feel good and sweet, A Mountain Divides Us was a great addition to the Crescent Pass series. Bring on Grayson and Abby’s story is all I’m sayin’.
✨ the bad ✨
That I don’t have a spare room to rent to a stupidly hot geotechnical engineer. But whatever.
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨ overall thoughts: wonderfully sweet and addictive single parent romance
✨ steam level: 🔥🔥🔥
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 22, 2025
I think A Mountain Divides Us is my favorite book in this series so far! Honestly I devoured it and I don’t usually enjoy single mother/father tropes (or pregnancy related tropes too not that this book has that exactly), but this time I really did. Kristen and her kids were adorable and I love them as much as Eli does. Also, Harper was much less frustrating in this book. Probably because she’s not trying to make choices based on how mature and adult they would be perceived as by others. She’s just happy and living her life now with Owen while rooting for her new sister in law, Kristen.
Also it was pretty cute seeing how Owen interacts with his sister and other family members more in this installment. Anyway, I don’t want to spoil too much. I think this book was adorable and a nice little escape from reality into the quiet world of Crescent Pass. It’s definitely centered on Kristen and Eli, but I was so glad to see my fave minor characters making plenty of appearances.
ETA: I did misunderstand the no testicles situation. Eli does still have his prostate. So I removed that part of my review because that’s on me not the author.
I was picking this book up every spare second I had. The overall situation Kristen and Eli find themselves in isn’t affected by that minor no balls issue. I absolutely enjoyed this book. I loved how this sort of portrayed how your person sometimes just appears in your life unexpectedly and you can’t help sometimes how things happen you just have to surrender to it and stop keeping yourself closed off. That sometimes you have to take a chance for everyone involved.
Anyway, definitely a solid installment of this series. I can’t wait to read Abby and Grayson’s story yet. One thing is for sure, the Taylor matriarch won’t stop until she’s played matchmaker for all of her children and married them off. 😂
Also it was pretty cute seeing how Owen interacts with his sister and other family members more in this installment. Anyway, I don’t want to spoil too much. I think this book was adorable and a nice little escape from reality into the quiet world of Crescent Pass. It’s definitely centered on Kristen and Eli, but I was so glad to see my fave minor characters making plenty of appearances.
ETA: I did misunderstand the no testicles situation. Eli does still have his prostate. So I removed that part of my review because that’s on me not the author.
I was picking this book up every spare second I had. The overall situation Kristen and Eli find themselves in isn’t affected by that minor no balls issue. I absolutely enjoyed this book. I loved how this sort of portrayed how your person sometimes just appears in your life unexpectedly and you can’t help sometimes how things happen you just have to surrender to it and stop keeping yourself closed off. That sometimes you have to take a chance for everyone involved.
Anyway, definitely a solid installment of this series. I can’t wait to read Abby and Grayson’s story yet. One thing is for sure, the Taylor matriarch won’t stop until she’s played matchmaker for all of her children and married them off. 😂
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2023
SIGHHHH. As a single mom, I adore a single mom romance that is done WELL. A super mom who’s just trying to get it all done, giving rarely any time for herself and has basically written off romance for herself is so relatable and accurate.
Kristen was such a relatable character the entire time. Stressed about money and just day to day stressors that come up. I adored the way she handled herself and was easily drawn into liking her character.
Eli. OH ELI. He runs straight to the top of my book boyfriend list. I honestly feel like Eli fell in love with Kristen’s kids and the way she loved and parented her kids first and that to me is just everything. I was cracking up whenever he word vomitted at her when he just needed a nap. How funny.
Kristen & Eli’s love story is now one of my favorites. I feel like a lot of the time in romance the spice and the relationship as a whole move extremely fast, which isn’t always the case in “real life” i liked that they took things slow. Whenever Eli told his boss he needed to stay in Crescent Pass to be with HIS FAMILY cuz they needed him. SWOOOOON.
I also want to mention that i felt the spice was extremely well done. It wasn’t too much to the point it took away from the story, but it was also so intertwined with what our MCs were struggling with that i really felt it was well done and necessary.
It’s giving: single parent romance, forced proximity, small town romance, landlord/tenant, roommates to lovers, slow burn & LOTS of mutual pining.
The character development 🔥
the plot 🔥
the romance 🔥
the spice 🔥
i honestly am just blown away. SO well done.
Kristen was such a relatable character the entire time. Stressed about money and just day to day stressors that come up. I adored the way she handled herself and was easily drawn into liking her character.
Eli. OH ELI. He runs straight to the top of my book boyfriend list. I honestly feel like Eli fell in love with Kristen’s kids and the way she loved and parented her kids first and that to me is just everything. I was cracking up whenever he word vomitted at her when he just needed a nap. How funny.
Kristen & Eli’s love story is now one of my favorites. I feel like a lot of the time in romance the spice and the relationship as a whole move extremely fast, which isn’t always the case in “real life” i liked that they took things slow. Whenever Eli told his boss he needed to stay in Crescent Pass to be with HIS FAMILY cuz they needed him. SWOOOOON.
I also want to mention that i felt the spice was extremely well done. It wasn’t too much to the point it took away from the story, but it was also so intertwined with what our MCs were struggling with that i really felt it was well done and necessary.
It’s giving: single parent romance, forced proximity, small town romance, landlord/tenant, roommates to lovers, slow burn & LOTS of mutual pining.
The character development 🔥
the plot 🔥
the romance 🔥
the spice 🔥
i honestly am just blown away. SO well done.
March 22, 2023
𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯. 𝘕𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘺. 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵, 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘧 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘢 𝘱𝘩𝘺𝘴𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘥𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘢 𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘭. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯… 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯, 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘪𝘵?
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚 🎭: contemporary romance
𝙋𝙖𝙘𝙚 🏃🏼♀️: fast
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 🖤: mountain men + romance
𝙏𝙒/𝘾𝙒 ⚠️: infertility discussions/male scarring
🏔️single mom
🏔️hunky man in town for one month
🏔️roommates to lovers
This is the second book in the Crescent Pass series but can be read as a stand-alone romance. I LOVED A Forest Between Us so I highly recommend checking that one out first.
I don’t think I’ve read a book with this trope before ✨strangers to roommates to roommates with benefits with an expiration date✨ but I am 👏🏼here 👏🏼 for 👏🏼it👏🏼
I love how Allie writes the quiet, strong, sensitive male characters in her books. Kristen is sooo hesitant and Eli is very sweet with her. He does such a good job making her feel comfortable and sexy and cared for despite her insecurity and inexperience.
The slow burn to the spice was so worth it- even if it was frustrating watching the two of them dance around their attraction for so long! Kristen and Eli both have emotional and physical scars - and their internal conflict over whether they can pursue their feelings is intense.
Loved this story. There’s a hint at the end that makes me reaaally look forward to the third book 👀.
👏🏼👏🏼 𝙃𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙙 to readers who enjoy Coho/Elle Kennedy/KA Tucker style romance books with happy endings.
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙚 🎭: contemporary romance
𝙋𝙖𝙘𝙚 🏃🏼♀️: fast
𝙎𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 🖤: mountain men + romance
𝙏𝙒/𝘾𝙒 ⚠️: infertility discussions/male scarring
🏔️single mom
🏔️hunky man in town for one month
🏔️roommates to lovers
This is the second book in the Crescent Pass series but can be read as a stand-alone romance. I LOVED A Forest Between Us so I highly recommend checking that one out first.
I don’t think I’ve read a book with this trope before ✨strangers to roommates to roommates with benefits with an expiration date✨ but I am 👏🏼here 👏🏼 for 👏🏼it👏🏼
I love how Allie writes the quiet, strong, sensitive male characters in her books. Kristen is sooo hesitant and Eli is very sweet with her. He does such a good job making her feel comfortable and sexy and cared for despite her insecurity and inexperience.
The slow burn to the spice was so worth it- even if it was frustrating watching the two of them dance around their attraction for so long! Kristen and Eli both have emotional and physical scars - and their internal conflict over whether they can pursue their feelings is intense.
Loved this story. There’s a hint at the end that makes me reaaally look forward to the third book 👀.
👏🏼👏🏼 𝙃𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙙 to readers who enjoy Coho/Elle Kennedy/KA Tucker style romance books with happy endings.
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
March 24, 2023
Do you enjoy:
🏔️small-town romance that will make you smile
🏔️a slow-burn read with all the steam in the second half 🏔️single-mom with two funny kids
🏔️ all the heartfelt moments?
Kristen and Eli’s book is for you!
I am so happy being back in Crescent Pass. Having met Owen and his family in book 1 of the series, A Forest Between Us, I just knew this series was one I would fall in love with and A Mountain Divides Us has totally lived up to that expectation!
Kristen is a single-mom who lives week by week with her life focussed on her 6 year old twins Jenny and Jamie and the town of Crescent Pass. When her hours are cut at work, Kristen needs to find a renter to share her home to help out financially. What she didn’t expect was to meet Eli.
Eli is a geotechnical engineer staying in Crescent Pass while working on a job nearby. When his accommodation falls through, the opportunity to rent a room at Kristen’s place comes up and despite her hesitations, Kristen allows Eli to stay at her house with her family.
I love how their relationship evolves, the family dynamic that is being built, the letting down of the walls and revealing the inner demons both Kristen and Eli hold inside their hearts. Their days are messy and real and fun and Jenny and Jamie play a big part in this story, as does Kristen’s meddling but means well mum! The romance is slow burning, but don’t worry, the steamy scenes make their way into the story!
I enjoyed getting glimpses of Owen and Harper and their life together and I’m excited for what is to come in Book 3!
Loved this book a lot, thank you to the author for sending me an early copy to read 😍
🏔️small-town romance that will make you smile
🏔️a slow-burn read with all the steam in the second half 🏔️single-mom with two funny kids
🏔️ all the heartfelt moments?
Kristen and Eli’s book is for you!
I am so happy being back in Crescent Pass. Having met Owen and his family in book 1 of the series, A Forest Between Us, I just knew this series was one I would fall in love with and A Mountain Divides Us has totally lived up to that expectation!
Kristen is a single-mom who lives week by week with her life focussed on her 6 year old twins Jenny and Jamie and the town of Crescent Pass. When her hours are cut at work, Kristen needs to find a renter to share her home to help out financially. What she didn’t expect was to meet Eli.
Eli is a geotechnical engineer staying in Crescent Pass while working on a job nearby. When his accommodation falls through, the opportunity to rent a room at Kristen’s place comes up and despite her hesitations, Kristen allows Eli to stay at her house with her family.
I love how their relationship evolves, the family dynamic that is being built, the letting down of the walls and revealing the inner demons both Kristen and Eli hold inside their hearts. Their days are messy and real and fun and Jenny and Jamie play a big part in this story, as does Kristen’s meddling but means well mum! The romance is slow burning, but don’t worry, the steamy scenes make their way into the story!
I enjoyed getting glimpses of Owen and Harper and their life together and I’m excited for what is to come in Book 3!
Loved this book a lot, thank you to the author for sending me an early copy to read 😍
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