She’s always been in love with him. He never saw her that way—until he almost lost her forever. Sarah Miller has spent years watching Connor Callahan walk into her bakery once a week, order the same coffee and scone, and leave without a second glance. She’s long accepted that he sees her as nothing more than a friend, a habit, a background piece in his adventurous, mountain-filled life. But when a storm rolls in and strands her on a remote hiking trail, it’s Connor who comes to her rescue. For the first time, he looks at her differently. Feels something he shouldn’t. And suddenly, the woman he’s walked past a hundred times is the only thing he can’t stop thinking about. But Sarah knows better than to believe in fairytales. She’s spent too long waiting for a man who never noticed her to trust that he truly wants her now. And when Connor pulls away just as fast as he came rushing in, she refuses to be his rescue project. Now Connor has to prove that it’s not the storm that changed things between them—it’s her. And he’s not walking away this time. A swoony, slow-burn friends-to-lovers romance full of longing, heartwarming moments, and the kind of love worth fighting for. Welcome to Mountain Laurel Lodge Nestled deep in the heart of the North Carolina mountains, Mountain Laurel Lodge is more than just a retreat. It’s home to the Callahan family, a group of gruff yet good-hearted brothers and cousins who never expected love to show up at their doorstep. Each book in the Mountain Laurel Lodge series is a standalone sweet romance, but the interwoven family stories make them best enjoyed in Spark Between Us – A fake dating romance featuring Ivy Callahan & her brother’s best friend. (Series prequel)Sunshine and the Grumpy Groundskeeper – A grumpy/sunshine romance between a reclusive groundskeeper and a lost, hopelessly optimistic children’s author.The Sweet Chef and the Corporate Queen – A single mom, opposites attract romance when a laid-back chef falls for a high-powered CEO—and her adorable daughter.Rescued in the Storm – A friends-to-lovers, second chance romance when a wilderness guide finally sees his best friend in a new light after saving her from danger.Practically Perfect Together – A fake fiancé romance when a fun-loving activities coordinator helps a workaholic impress her business partners.The Heiress and the Handyman – A hidden identity romance when a runaway heiress in disguise turns a mountain man handyman’s life upside down.Full of heartfelt romance, family bonds, and swoon-worthy mountain men, the Mountain Laurel Lodge series is perfect for readers who love small-town settings, slow-burn chemistry, and rugged heroes with soft hearts. Come visit Elk Ridge and fall in love with the Callahan family today!