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The Mountains Are Calling #3
Out of the Woods
A small-town backcountry hiking guide and a travel nurse become reluctant roommates and fight their growing connection before his contract—and their time together—comes to an end in this cozy, slow-burn, small town romance.
Stevie Lynch has never wanted to leave Fontana Ridge.
The Smoky Mountains are her home, her livelihood, and the one place she’s always felt steady. Guiding backcountry tours is the only thing she’s completely sure of, even if the rest of her life feels a little less certain. The last thing she needs is her routine disrupted, especially by a temporary roommate.
Jack Sullivan doesn’t stay anywhere long.
As a travel nurse, he moves from contract to contract, keeping his life simple and uncomplicated. It works for him. No roots. No expectations. No reason to get attached. But when a housing mix-up lands him renting a room in Stevie’s house, simple suddenly feels a lot more complicated.
Living together was never part of the plan.
Between early mornings, shared dinners, and long conversations after work, what begins as convenience slowly turns into friendship and something much harder to ignore. The more time they spend under the same roof, the more their carefully guarded boundaries begin to blur.
Jack has an end date.
Stevie has never wanted to leave.
But sometimes the best paths aren’t the ones you map out—they’re the ones you find when you least expect it.
Stevie Lynch has never wanted to leave Fontana Ridge.
The Smoky Mountains are her home, her livelihood, and the one place she’s always felt steady. Guiding backcountry tours is the only thing she’s completely sure of, even if the rest of her life feels a little less certain. The last thing she needs is her routine disrupted, especially by a temporary roommate.
Jack Sullivan doesn’t stay anywhere long.
As a travel nurse, he moves from contract to contract, keeping his life simple and uncomplicated. It works for him. No roots. No expectations. No reason to get attached. But when a housing mix-up lands him renting a room in Stevie’s house, simple suddenly feels a lot more complicated.
Living together was never part of the plan.
Between early mornings, shared dinners, and long conversations after work, what begins as convenience slowly turns into friendship and something much harder to ignore. The more time they spend under the same roof, the more their carefully guarded boundaries begin to blur.
Jack has an end date.
Stevie has never wanted to leave.
But sometimes the best paths aren’t the ones you map out—they’re the ones you find when you least expect it.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 15, 2026
About the author
Madison Wright
7 books828 followersMadison Wright is a hopeless romantic living her own happily ever after in Nashville. After falling in love with reading at a young age, she always dreamed of becoming an author. She writes romances that feel cozy and always feature a happily-ever-after.
She's a big fan of sunshine, pastries, and any book with a love story. When she's not reading or writing, she can be found exploring her city with her husband and dog.
To keep up to date, follow on socials @authormadisonwright, join her newsletter, or go to her website www.authormadisonwright.com.
She's a big fan of sunshine, pastries, and any book with a love story. When she's not reading or writing, she can be found exploring her city with her husband and dog.
To keep up to date, follow on socials @authormadisonwright, join her newsletter, or go to her website www.authormadisonwright.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
July 9, 2026
It was criminal to wait that long for a kiss.
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
May 9, 2026
This was an easy and quick read!
I liked how they slowly progressed in their relation, it was the opposite of insta-love or lust. From strangers to roommates to then friends and finally to love but quite far in the plot (just a heads up ;)). It was refreshing and very mature for both of them to “follow the order of things”. Even when they felt the pull, then didn’t go for the fling type of relationship but stayed friends, were there for each other, then dealt with their respective “obstacles” (let’s call it that) and only THEN went for relationship.
What is an equivalent of coming of age but when you’re 30? Finding yourself? Re-finding yourself?
Both Stevie and Jack had their own things to deal with. Jack needed to deal with grief and being able to stop running and coming back to his hometown, and Stevie needed to learn how to not be needed and not to help others (even loved ones) constantly while forgetting about her own needs.
While the story touches tough(er)
themes, it was still rather easy and light read for me. There are moments hitting you in the feels but it’s not overwhelming for the whole of reading time.
It’s nothing spicy! Closed door/maybe a bit of fade to black. Most of the books I read are spicy but I liked that this one had zero such content, it wasn’t needed here ;).
I only read this book, I didn’t know it’s part of the series, but I can confirm it 100% works as a standalone.
Overall it was a wholesome and cute romance with some pretty realistic life situations (mainly all the family stuff).
Bonus points for lack of forced nicknames.
Extra bonus points for the not-Jack bit. It made giggle each time Stevie called Jack some other J-name.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for eARC.
~~couple of my highlights~~
“You have a tendency to give more of yourself than is good for you”
“I’ve always fancied myself independent, in need of no one. And there have been plenty of times when that’s felt lonely, especially more frequently in the last few months and years. But I’ve never truly felt alone. Until now. It’s frightening.”
“I think I’d go for a hike.”
“Don’t you do that for work?”
“But I never get to do it for fun anymore. I used to hike all the time, but I don’t know the last time I went out for fun.”
“Then let’s go for a hike.”
ok I believe I have more but apparently my kindle app didn’t sync properly
I liked how they slowly progressed in their relation, it was the opposite of insta-love or lust. From strangers to roommates to then friends and finally to love but quite far in the plot (just a heads up ;)). It was refreshing and very mature for both of them to “follow the order of things”. Even when they felt the pull, then didn’t go for the fling type of relationship but stayed friends, were there for each other, then dealt with their respective “obstacles” (let’s call it that) and only THEN went for relationship.
What is an equivalent of coming of age but when you’re 30? Finding yourself? Re-finding yourself?
Both Stevie and Jack had their own things to deal with. Jack needed to deal with grief and being able to stop running and coming back to his hometown, and Stevie needed to learn how to not be needed and not to help others (even loved ones) constantly while forgetting about her own needs.
While the story touches tough(er)
themes, it was still rather easy and light read for me. There are moments hitting you in the feels but it’s not overwhelming for the whole of reading time.
It’s nothing spicy! Closed door/maybe a bit of fade to black. Most of the books I read are spicy but I liked that this one had zero such content, it wasn’t needed here ;).
I only read this book, I didn’t know it’s part of the series, but I can confirm it 100% works as a standalone.
Overall it was a wholesome and cute romance with some pretty realistic life situations (mainly all the family stuff).
Bonus points for lack of forced nicknames.
Extra bonus points for the not-Jack bit. It made giggle each time Stevie called Jack some other J-name.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for eARC.
~~couple of my highlights~~
“You have a tendency to give more of yourself than is good for you”
“I’ve always fancied myself independent, in need of no one. And there have been plenty of times when that’s felt lonely, especially more frequently in the last few months and years. But I’ve never truly felt alone. Until now. It’s frightening.”
“I think I’d go for a hike.”
“Don’t you do that for work?”
“But I never get to do it for fun anymore. I used to hike all the time, but I don’t know the last time I went out for fun.”
“Then let’s go for a hike.”
ok I believe I have more but apparently my kindle app didn’t sync properly
May 24, 2026
Everything was okay, but not enough happened. It felt really quick and you don't really get to know the characters any better by the end.
June 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Book 3 in series
- FTB Romcom
- Dual POV
- SLLLOOOOWWWW burn
- Finding healing together
- Unlikely meetcute
✨ a few of my favorite things:
- Stevie calling him different J names
- their easy banter and camaraderie
- Cooking together
- The friendship and comfort they build first
- His big grand gesture
- Her big grand gesture 🥹
- The whole ending 💕👏🏻
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book felt like all the bits of my favorite 2000s romcoms mashed together. It felt so nostalgic of my favorite movies and then add in the most satisfying ending ever, definitely one of my new favorite reads.
I loved their easy friendship from the get go. The unfortunate circumstances that brought them back together made me wonder how it would work out and asked me to suspend some reality. But I will say Madison sold me. I ending up loving their dynamic, how they supported each other, found comfort in each other, and how they both really tried to put the other first. They have such a wholesome friendship and then one of the slowest burns ever. It’s a great time. They had a gentle, cozy love that took time but was worth it.
I also think it’s worth mentioning that both MCs have considerable growth on their own. They are both struggling with big things throughout this book. They help each other and pick each other up along the way. But as people, the MCs grow and change with very satisfying character arcs.
Also I struggled with the side characters a bit in this one and how they treated/reacted to our MCs. However, they all have their redeeming moments and show up for the MCs.
This is a fade to black romcom with some cursing and one minimal detailed fade to black scene. The author does take the Lord’s name in vain.
**Thank you so much to Madison for letting me read this gifted ARC via NetGalley. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
- Book 3 in series
- FTB Romcom
- Dual POV
- SLLLOOOOWWWW burn
- Finding healing together
- Unlikely meetcute
✨ a few of my favorite things:
- Stevie calling him different J names
- their easy banter and camaraderie
- Cooking together
- The friendship and comfort they build first
- His big grand gesture
- Her big grand gesture 🥹
- The whole ending 💕👏🏻
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book felt like all the bits of my favorite 2000s romcoms mashed together. It felt so nostalgic of my favorite movies and then add in the most satisfying ending ever, definitely one of my new favorite reads.
I loved their easy friendship from the get go. The unfortunate circumstances that brought them back together made me wonder how it would work out and asked me to suspend some reality. But I will say Madison sold me. I ending up loving their dynamic, how they supported each other, found comfort in each other, and how they both really tried to put the other first. They have such a wholesome friendship and then one of the slowest burns ever. It’s a great time. They had a gentle, cozy love that took time but was worth it.
I also think it’s worth mentioning that both MCs have considerable growth on their own. They are both struggling with big things throughout this book. They help each other and pick each other up along the way. But as people, the MCs grow and change with very satisfying character arcs.
Also I struggled with the side characters a bit in this one and how they treated/reacted to our MCs. However, they all have their redeeming moments and show up for the MCs.
This is a fade to black romcom with some cursing and one minimal detailed fade to black scene. The author does take the Lord’s name in vain.
**Thank you so much to Madison for letting me read this gifted ARC via NetGalley. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
May 25, 2026
A super sweet and easy read! I loved that these two had such a quiet gentle way of just understanding each other. They both worked to overcome their fears and showed each other how to be brave in their own ways. This was a real slow burn and I loved how they genuinely started out as friends before realising their feelings went deeper. Thanks so much to NetGalley and Madison for the Arc!
May 23, 2026
Stevie and Jack’s story was so beautiful, real, and deeply emotional. It’s a story about two people who spend their entire lives running away from their true selves and from what they really want. They give everything to everyone around them while constantly putting themselves last.
The setting of the story, the small town atmosphere, the little gestures between them, and everything surrounding their relationship made the characters feel so real, alive, and easy to connect with. I truly felt like Jack and Stevie stayed with me throughout the entire book, and I enjoyed their story so much.
Madison really knows how to write characters that touch your heart and give them a unique, unforgettable personality
The setting of the story, the small town atmosphere, the little gestures between them, and everything surrounding their relationship made the characters feel so real, alive, and easy to connect with. I truly felt like Jack and Stevie stayed with me throughout the entire book, and I enjoyed their story so much.
Madison really knows how to write characters that touch your heart and give them a unique, unforgettable personality
May 24, 2026
Stevie and Jack's story was a sweet friends to lovers slow burn with a lot of angst, cozy nights watching movies and cooking together and great grief rep as they both figure out what they want in life while dealing with family issues. This one wasn't my fav of the Mountains are calling series but it was still really entertaining and I'm glad I picked it up. Many thanks to NetGalley and the author for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
Steam level: kissing only/closed door
Steam level: kissing only/closed door
May 15, 2026
An absolute gem. Out of the Woods is the coziest romance I've read in ages.
Jack and Stevie's story can only be described as a warm hug. They are truly two of the most tender hearted characters, both going through so much in an attempt to figure out who they are and who they want to become.
I loved every second of their story and can't recommend it enough.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the advanced reader's copy.
Jack and Stevie's story can only be described as a warm hug. They are truly two of the most tender hearted characters, both going through so much in an attempt to figure out who they are and who they want to become.
I loved every second of their story and can't recommend it enough.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the advanced reader's copy.
May 21, 2026
A sweet good wholesome story fast paced and cute.
Love these easy, quick, sweet romance books
Love these easy, quick, sweet romance books
May 21, 2026
This is my favorite Madison Wright book yet
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Stevie ama la tranquilidad de vivir sola en medio del bosque, hasta que una tormenta destruye su casa, la cual construyó con sus propias manos y se ve obligada a aceptar ayuda cuando menos quiere hacerlo. Con una conmoción, demasiadas responsabilidades familiares sobre los hombros y ningún lugar al que ir, termina compartiendo una cabaña con Jack, el enfermero que la atendió en el hospital y el mismo hombre que parece decidido a meterse bajo su piel.
Jack está acostumbrado a irse antes de encariñarse con cualquier lugar o persona, pero Fontana Ridge empieza a sentirse como un hogar desde que Stevie apareció empapada en su puerta una noche de tormenta. Ella es reservada, terca y experta en fingir que puede con todo ella sola.
Mientras el otoño cubre las montañas y la convivencia los obliga a acercarse más de lo esperado, Stevie comienza a darse cuenta de que algunas personas pueden convertirse en hogar cuando todo lo demás parece derrumbarse. Pero abrirle espacio a alguien también significa enfrentar heridas que llevan años
Entre lluvias, montañas, noches de películas, bailes a media noche y secretos que ninguno quiere admitir en voz alta, ambos descubren que hay conexiones imposibles de ignorar.
_________
Es un romance slow burn, así que sean pacientes. Tanto como Stevie como Jack no quieren enamorarse (cada uno por diferentes situaciones) por lo que intentan mantener su relación en amistad aunque les es imposible no enamorarse.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Jack está acostumbrado a irse antes de encariñarse con cualquier lugar o persona, pero Fontana Ridge empieza a sentirse como un hogar desde que Stevie apareció empapada en su puerta una noche de tormenta. Ella es reservada, terca y experta en fingir que puede con todo ella sola.
Mientras el otoño cubre las montañas y la convivencia los obliga a acercarse más de lo esperado, Stevie comienza a darse cuenta de que algunas personas pueden convertirse en hogar cuando todo lo demás parece derrumbarse. Pero abrirle espacio a alguien también significa enfrentar heridas que llevan años
Entre lluvias, montañas, noches de películas, bailes a media noche y secretos que ninguno quiere admitir en voz alta, ambos descubren que hay conexiones imposibles de ignorar.
_________
Es un romance slow burn, así que sean pacientes. Tanto como Stevie como Jack no quieren enamorarse (cada uno por diferentes situaciones) por lo que intentan mantener su relación en amistad aunque les es imposible no enamorarse.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
May 15, 2026
Out of the Woods was such a cozy and comforting small-town romance. The story has a really quiet, heartfelt feel to it, and I ended up getting completely invested in Stevie and Jack’s relationship.
I loved the Smoky Mountain setting and the slower pace of the romance. The forced proximity/roommates trope worked really well here because their connection developed naturally through shared routines, conversations, and everyday moments instead of instant attraction taking over the story. It made their relationship feel genuine and believable.
Stevie and Jack balanced each other nicely too. Stevie’s attachment to her hometown and stable life contrasted well with Jack’s temporary lifestyle as a travel nurse, and that underlying tension added emotional weight to the romance. I especially liked how both characters felt mature and grounded, with realistic fears and priorities.
The found family and small-town aspects added a lot of warmth to the story, and the closed-door romance still managed to feel emotional and satisfying without needing explicit scenes.
Overall, this was a sweet, slow-burn romance with strong emotional depth, lovable characters, and a beautiful mountain-town atmosphere. If you enjoy cozy romances with forced proximity, emotional slow burns, and characters finding home in unexpected places, this is definitely worth reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the Smoky Mountain setting and the slower pace of the romance. The forced proximity/roommates trope worked really well here because their connection developed naturally through shared routines, conversations, and everyday moments instead of instant attraction taking over the story. It made their relationship feel genuine and believable.
Stevie and Jack balanced each other nicely too. Stevie’s attachment to her hometown and stable life contrasted well with Jack’s temporary lifestyle as a travel nurse, and that underlying tension added emotional weight to the romance. I especially liked how both characters felt mature and grounded, with realistic fears and priorities.
The found family and small-town aspects added a lot of warmth to the story, and the closed-door romance still managed to feel emotional and satisfying without needing explicit scenes.
Overall, this was a sweet, slow-burn romance with strong emotional depth, lovable characters, and a beautiful mountain-town atmosphere. If you enjoy cozy romances with forced proximity, emotional slow burns, and characters finding home in unexpected places, this is definitely worth reading.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 20, 2026
My thoughts:
This was such an addicting book! I could not put it down! I thought about it the whole time I was at work this week, just waiting to get home and finish it hehe.
Jack and Stevie were so sweet! I loved how he was her nurse in the hospital and they were immediately drawn to each other.
I loved how they both tore down their walls for each other and he was gonna stay for and she was gonna leave for him (iykyk)
One swoony moment I can’t get out of my mind was when Jack went with her to her home and saw where she got hurt and was immediately relieved it wasn’t as bad as it could have been. The fact that they weren’t even together yet and he was worried for her was so sweet and swoony!
I loved seeing Wren and Holden as parents! It was so sweet. I wish we could’ve seen more of Grey and Finley!
This book was so emotional and talked about so many hard life situations. I was so emotional at multiple parts.
I would definitely recommend this series and I’m planning on reading Madison’s other books now (even though I think they go before this series)
Tropes:
🌲strangers to lovers
🌲roommates
🌲forced proximity
🌲slow burn
🌲small town
🌲travel nurse x backcountry tour guide
🌲tension + yearning
Content:
- 4.5☆
- spice: .5* (kissing only/closed door. Innuendo)
- language: 🗣️🗣️ (no f-words)
- TW/CW: death of parent. Family member with Alzheimer’s. Family member with chronic back pain.
This was such an addicting book! I could not put it down! I thought about it the whole time I was at work this week, just waiting to get home and finish it hehe.
Jack and Stevie were so sweet! I loved how he was her nurse in the hospital and they were immediately drawn to each other.
I loved how they both tore down their walls for each other and he was gonna stay for and she was gonna leave for him (iykyk)
One swoony moment I can’t get out of my mind was when Jack went with her to her home and saw where she got hurt and was immediately relieved it wasn’t as bad as it could have been. The fact that they weren’t even together yet and he was worried for her was so sweet and swoony!
I loved seeing Wren and Holden as parents! It was so sweet. I wish we could’ve seen more of Grey and Finley!
This book was so emotional and talked about so many hard life situations. I was so emotional at multiple parts.
I would definitely recommend this series and I’m planning on reading Madison’s other books now (even though I think they go before this series)
Tropes:
🌲strangers to lovers
🌲roommates
🌲forced proximity
🌲slow burn
🌲small town
🌲travel nurse x backcountry tour guide
🌲tension + yearning
Content:
- 4.5☆
- spice: .5* (kissing only/closed door. Innuendo)
- language: 🗣️🗣️ (no f-words)
- TW/CW: death of parent. Family member with Alzheimer’s. Family member with chronic back pain.
May 22, 2026
3.5 maybe I was torn on this one.
I really liked the main characters. I liked that in a lot of ways they were very similar so often we read the stereotypical opposites attract but this felt very authentic to them and the story.
I also like the friendship that was developing between them and turning into more.
But somewhere in the last half or 3/4s of the book their extreme resistance to be together made everyone look immature.
The fight with her mom and Wren, her moving out of the cabin, them cooking in that tiny airstream kitchen instead of the cabin.
It all was almost ridiculous.
Her job literally has an off season and at the end of the day she’s a hiking guide not a rocket scientist.
His job is travel which she’s dreamed of. Also most people I know that are involved with hiking at all much less a guide actually travel to other places to hike other mountains. No one wants to pay a guide that’s never hiked anywhere else.
Her uncle should have been the one pushing for her to travel and explore.
It was way too obvious and the book almost was hinting that Jack was going to ask her to go to Montana with him and when he didn’t it felt off.
It’s very rare I disagree with an ending but this felt like the ending went all over the place instead of straight through where it needed to and then once it did finally end it felt anticlimactic.
This was a weird one.
I really liked the main characters. I liked that in a lot of ways they were very similar so often we read the stereotypical opposites attract but this felt very authentic to them and the story.
I also like the friendship that was developing between them and turning into more.
But somewhere in the last half or 3/4s of the book their extreme resistance to be together made everyone look immature.
The fight with her mom and Wren, her moving out of the cabin, them cooking in that tiny airstream kitchen instead of the cabin.
It all was almost ridiculous.
Her job literally has an off season and at the end of the day she’s a hiking guide not a rocket scientist.
His job is travel which she’s dreamed of. Also most people I know that are involved with hiking at all much less a guide actually travel to other places to hike other mountains. No one wants to pay a guide that’s never hiked anywhere else.
Her uncle should have been the one pushing for her to travel and explore.
It was way too obvious and the book almost was hinting that Jack was going to ask her to go to Montana with him and when he didn’t it felt off.
It’s very rare I disagree with an ending but this felt like the ending went all over the place instead of straight through where it needed to and then once it did finally end it felt anticlimactic.
This was a weird one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2026
Stevie Lynch is a hiking guide in the town she has lived in her whole life. She once dreamed of a life of traveling and discovering new places but found herself staying home to help her family and never left. Jack is a traveling nurse who spends his life constantly moving to different places for work and never returning to the place he grew up. The two meet when a storm causes them to cross paths first at the hospital and again when they become unexpected roommates. They bond and form a friendship that could be more.
This was an adorable book and my first by Madison Wright. I've seen her books all over but never had a chance to read one. I loved the slow burn connection between Stevie and Jack. They both help each other in so many ways. This is a closed door romance, so perfect for fans of that! Definite must read and now I feel like I want to go back and read the earlier books in the series. The characters reoccur in this one (although it can be read completely as a stand alone!)
This was an adorable book and my first by Madison Wright. I've seen her books all over but never had a chance to read one. I loved the slow burn connection between Stevie and Jack. They both help each other in so many ways. This is a closed door romance, so perfect for fans of that! Definite must read and now I feel like I want to go back and read the earlier books in the series. The characters reoccur in this one (although it can be read completely as a stand alone!)
May 15, 2026
“Out of the Woods” by Madison Wright 💚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love everything Madison Wright writes!!!! and this Fontana Ridge series has been so neat and dear to me I’m so sad to see it end, but I am left so happy, warm, cozy, and in love with this cozy town and all its beautiful people 🥹
stevie and jack are so incredibly perfect for one another!!! I just love their chemistry and banter and their sweet, tender love for one another. it’s so special seeing them grow close to each other in ways no one else ever has and being able to see and love each other in the best way the other needs. and of course this story is hilarious!!! the deep, tender moments are perfectly matched by the wit and humor, it’s just the most perfect romcom!!!
I just love Fontana Ridge and I was so happy to see all my favorite characters again in this last one, seeing them all live their happily ever after warmed my heart like nothing else. I have loved this series so much and hope everyone reads them and falls in love with them too 🥹🫶
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love everything Madison Wright writes!!!! and this Fontana Ridge series has been so neat and dear to me I’m so sad to see it end, but I am left so happy, warm, cozy, and in love with this cozy town and all its beautiful people 🥹
stevie and jack are so incredibly perfect for one another!!! I just love their chemistry and banter and their sweet, tender love for one another. it’s so special seeing them grow close to each other in ways no one else ever has and being able to see and love each other in the best way the other needs. and of course this story is hilarious!!! the deep, tender moments are perfectly matched by the wit and humor, it’s just the most perfect romcom!!!
I just love Fontana Ridge and I was so happy to see all my favorite characters again in this last one, seeing them all live their happily ever after warmed my heart like nothing else. I have loved this series so much and hope everyone reads them and falls in love with them too 🥹🫶
June 11, 2026
3.25⭐️
Stevie puts everyone’s needs before her own (especially her parents). This has resulted in her dreams to be paused and her to settle on a life in Fontana ridge. I love that while she was falling for Jack, she was also starting to realize that maybe her dreams never really went away.
Jack left home in hopes that he could find some quiet from the pain he was experiencing after losing his mom. Little did he know, on one of his nursing contracts, he would find the girl who flipped his whole life upside down in the best way possible. Learning to embrace the fear of his mom’s absence at home, he finally chose family.
I loved watching them grow to become everything they thought they lost the chance to become. Bonus points that they got to do it together:
I would absolutely recommend this to anyone looking for a nice slow burn romance story, where strangers become friends first. (without all the extra spice making it perfect for YA readers)
I received an ARC copy of this book for free from NetGalley and am voluntarily writing this review.
Stevie puts everyone’s needs before her own (especially her parents). This has resulted in her dreams to be paused and her to settle on a life in Fontana ridge. I love that while she was falling for Jack, she was also starting to realize that maybe her dreams never really went away.
Jack left home in hopes that he could find some quiet from the pain he was experiencing after losing his mom. Little did he know, on one of his nursing contracts, he would find the girl who flipped his whole life upside down in the best way possible. Learning to embrace the fear of his mom’s absence at home, he finally chose family.
I loved watching them grow to become everything they thought they lost the chance to become. Bonus points that they got to do it together:
I would absolutely recommend this to anyone looking for a nice slow burn romance story, where strangers become friends first. (without all the extra spice making it perfect for YA readers)
I received an ARC copy of this book for free from NetGalley and am voluntarily writing this review.
June 29, 2026
Like all of Madison’s books this was so incredibly soft and sweet. I loved being back in Fontana Ridge, seeing Wren and Holden again and how much they’ve changed since we’ve seen them last!! I loved that we finally got to see Stevie’s happy ending. She’s been in this little universe since almost the beginning! And seeing everything Madison’s written wind together so effortlessly made my heart absolutely ACHE in the best way.
Jack and Stevie were absolutely perfect. They took their time, became friends, let their lives kind of just fold together. They were roommates by chance and lived on total opposite schedules, but seeing them make an effort to find time to spend time together was so sweet. They were also two people who were both a little lost, just in different ways. Jack has been running, and Stevie’s been so tethered. And seeing them miraculously combine those feelings and create something that is now something SO GOOD?? Was so perfect.
I’ve loved Madison’s books for a long time and I can’t wait to be back in the universe she’s created!!
Jack and Stevie were absolutely perfect. They took their time, became friends, let their lives kind of just fold together. They were roommates by chance and lived on total opposite schedules, but seeing them make an effort to find time to spend time together was so sweet. They were also two people who were both a little lost, just in different ways. Jack has been running, and Stevie’s been so tethered. And seeing them miraculously combine those feelings and create something that is now something SO GOOD?? Was so perfect.
I’ve loved Madison’s books for a long time and I can’t wait to be back in the universe she’s created!!
July 6, 2026
4.5⭐️
spice: closed door, implied intimacy
tropes: slowww burn, forced proximity, strangers to lovers
this was another hit from Madison Wright!🌲🧺
The slow burn was so excruciating in a good way! first kiss was not even until ~90% in the book)
I loved the family dynamics and Stevie's character development and her growth in finding what was best for her. My heart broke for her, because she just wanted to be needed, and I relate so much to her.
Jack was a breath of fresh air and a walking green flag. He had some family issues (who does'nt tbh), but he grew so much from start to finish. He absolutely loved Stevie and did not want her to give up her life for him, even if he was willing to do the same.
In all honesty, this was not my favorite in The Mountains are Calling Series, as Only in Your Dreams takes #1 for me. However, this was such a good book, and made me giddy and feel all the swoony romantic feelings.
Highly recommend if you love slow burn and forced proximity!
🌲🧺⭐️💌
spice: closed door, implied intimacy
tropes: slowww burn, forced proximity, strangers to lovers
this was another hit from Madison Wright!🌲🧺
The slow burn was so excruciating in a good way! first kiss was not even until ~90% in the book)
I loved the family dynamics and Stevie's character development and her growth in finding what was best for her. My heart broke for her, because she just wanted to be needed, and I relate so much to her.
Jack was a breath of fresh air and a walking green flag. He had some family issues (who does'nt tbh), but he grew so much from start to finish. He absolutely loved Stevie and did not want her to give up her life for him, even if he was willing to do the same.
In all honesty, this was not my favorite in The Mountains are Calling Series, as Only in Your Dreams takes #1 for me. However, this was such a good book, and made me giddy and feel all the swoony romantic feelings.
Highly recommend if you love slow burn and forced proximity!
🌲🧺⭐️💌
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2026
ARC review
This one was such a cozy, gentle slow burn. 🔥
Stevie and Jack felt like the kind of couple that sneaks up on you in the best way. I loved the small-town, mountain setting so much, and the forced proximity setup gave the romance exactly the right amount of tension without ever losing that warm, comforting feel. Their relationship grew in a really natural way, from reluctant roommates to friends to something softer and deeper.
Stevie was so grounded and easy to root for, especially in the way she loved her home and the life she’d built for herself. Jack brought this calm, steady energy that worked beautifully with her, and I really liked how the book let their connection breathe. The found family aspect also added a lot of heart and made the whole story feel even more inviting.
If you like closed-door romance, cozy mountain vibes, roommates-to-lovers, and a slow burn that feels sweet and sincere, this is a really lovely read.
This one was such a cozy, gentle slow burn. 🔥
Stevie and Jack felt like the kind of couple that sneaks up on you in the best way. I loved the small-town, mountain setting so much, and the forced proximity setup gave the romance exactly the right amount of tension without ever losing that warm, comforting feel. Their relationship grew in a really natural way, from reluctant roommates to friends to something softer and deeper.
Stevie was so grounded and easy to root for, especially in the way she loved her home and the life she’d built for herself. Jack brought this calm, steady energy that worked beautifully with her, and I really liked how the book let their connection breathe. The found family aspect also added a lot of heart and made the whole story feel even more inviting.
If you like closed-door romance, cozy mountain vibes, roommates-to-lovers, and a slow burn that feels sweet and sincere, this is a really lovely read.
June 4, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to read an e-ARC of this book.
I typically read semi-spicy contemporary romance, however, lately, some of the more slow-burn and closed door romances have really hit for me. I had DNF'd the first two books in this series for different series. I think the couple and dynamic has to resonate with me a little bit and this third couple really did it for me. Jack is sweet, ethical, patient, and kind. Stevie's family dynamic feels familiar based on my partner, so I could really feel for her and root for her to change that for herself. It did not drag, and it kept my attention even though I needed to put it down several times. I definitely recommend!
There were quite a few typos, mostly in the first quarter of the book, so hopefully editing catches them before physical or final publishing.
I typically read semi-spicy contemporary romance, however, lately, some of the more slow-burn and closed door romances have really hit for me. I had DNF'd the first two books in this series for different series. I think the couple and dynamic has to resonate with me a little bit and this third couple really did it for me. Jack is sweet, ethical, patient, and kind. Stevie's family dynamic feels familiar based on my partner, so I could really feel for her and root for her to change that for herself. It did not drag, and it kept my attention even though I needed to put it down several times. I definitely recommend!
There were quite a few typos, mostly in the first quarter of the book, so hopefully editing catches them before physical or final publishing.
May 15, 2026
- - 𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐨𝐝𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐖𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭
𝑇𝑟𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑠:
✰ 𝑠𝑚𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑡𝑜𝑤𝑛
✰ 𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑚𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑠
✰ 𝑐𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑒 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑥𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑡𝑦
✰ 𝑠𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑏𝑢𝑟𝑛
This book was such a breath of fresh air! We don’t get slowburn that often anymore but Madison Wright keeps delivering it to us.
This was a fun and sweet read. I loved the progression from strangers to friends and then lovers between the two main characters Stevie and Jack.
As of the characters, they are both so lovely and easy to fall for. You couldn’t help but want the best for them. Especially I saw parts of myself in Stevie’s journey and that’s always special.
Overall I highly recommend. It’s a delight among the small town romance genre!
*arc kindly provided in exchange of an honest review
𝑇𝑟𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑠:
✰ 𝑠𝑚𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑡𝑜𝑤𝑛
✰ 𝑟𝑜𝑜𝑚𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑠
✰ 𝑐𝑙𝑜𝑠𝑒 𝑝𝑟𝑜𝑥𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑡𝑦
✰ 𝑠𝑙𝑜𝑤𝑏𝑢𝑟𝑛
This book was such a breath of fresh air! We don’t get slowburn that often anymore but Madison Wright keeps delivering it to us.
This was a fun and sweet read. I loved the progression from strangers to friends and then lovers between the two main characters Stevie and Jack.
As of the characters, they are both so lovely and easy to fall for. You couldn’t help but want the best for them. Especially I saw parts of myself in Stevie’s journey and that’s always special.
Overall I highly recommend. It’s a delight among the small town romance genre!
*arc kindly provided in exchange of an honest review
May 27, 2026
3.25/5 ⭐️
This is a nice easy read / palette cleanser.
I do feel compelled to read some more of Madison Wrights books and continue this series.
The whole romance did feel quite rushed and every “new location” - e.g. the fair, the trip away - all felt glossed over. Like “oh they went on a trip”, new chapter back at home.
Both characters overcame some big challenges. The romance was minimal. No spice. It ended still feeling like friends more than lovers. But, it was quite refreshing. No huge ridiculous love ending - it wouldn’t have worked for these characters anyway. It’s not their style - they are more low key.
Overall, I enjoyed it!!
Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for a ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is a nice easy read / palette cleanser.
I do feel compelled to read some more of Madison Wrights books and continue this series.
The whole romance did feel quite rushed and every “new location” - e.g. the fair, the trip away - all felt glossed over. Like “oh they went on a trip”, new chapter back at home.
Both characters overcame some big challenges. The romance was minimal. No spice. It ended still feeling like friends more than lovers. But, it was quite refreshing. No huge ridiculous love ending - it wouldn’t have worked for these characters anyway. It’s not their style - they are more low key.
Overall, I enjoyed it!!
Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for a ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.
This was just as lovely as the others in this series. Stevie showed real growth throughout the story, and she and Jack were perfect for each other. I loved how she called him a different "J" name every time she saw him - that was really funny. It's a slow burn, friends to lovers story, with the "lovers' part completely off page. If you're looking for spice, this is not for you. If you're looking for a beautifully written story, you must read this (and the whole series!). Fontana Ridge, you've captured my heart.
This was just as lovely as the others in this series. Stevie showed real growth throughout the story, and she and Jack were perfect for each other. I loved how she called him a different "J" name every time she saw him - that was really funny. It's a slow burn, friends to lovers story, with the "lovers' part completely off page. If you're looking for spice, this is not for you. If you're looking for a beautifully written story, you must read this (and the whole series!). Fontana Ridge, you've captured my heart.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A deliciously cosy, slow burn romance set in a small mountain town. Stevie and Jack are two lost souls who end up as non-planned room mates and we follow their relationship as they help each other find themselves, and hopefully each other.
I enjoyed watching their friendship grow, how they settled into day to day life with each other. It was also lovely to have both POV's. I felt for both of them and their own struggles.
The book feels like a nice cup of tea and cosy place to read.
Thank you for the ARC. I will have to read the rest now as it's only upon completing this one did I realize it was part of a series!
I enjoyed watching their friendship grow, how they settled into day to day life with each other. It was also lovely to have both POV's. I felt for both of them and their own struggles.
The book feels like a nice cup of tea and cosy place to read.
Thank you for the ARC. I will have to read the rest now as it's only upon completing this one did I realize it was part of a series!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
♾️ stars. Instead of a soulmate, this is my soul book. I felt so deeply connected to Stevie (fmc) in a way that so rarely happens for me with book characters. There is so much beauty in this story; small town charm, the outdoors & nature, friendships, grief, family relationships, and finding the people who really truly see you. I’ll never get over this book and how it made me feel. It’s easily the most emotional I’ve ever gotten over a book and I can also easily see this being my top read of 2026.
May 10, 2026
Written in First Person
Dual POV
Small Town Romance
Friends to Lovers
Available on Kindle Unlimited
Book 3 of The Mountains Are Calling series but can be read as a stand alone.
I quickly fell in love with Stevie and Jack! Their story had me wishing I could put life on hold until I finished their story. Stevie is a back country hiking guide for her Uncle’s company in North Carolina. Jack is a traveling nurse. I loved the banter between them. Both Stevie and Jack are stuck in life and find themselves on a journey to move forward. This is a closed door HEA.
Dual POV
Small Town Romance
Friends to Lovers
Available on Kindle Unlimited
Book 3 of The Mountains Are Calling series but can be read as a stand alone.
I quickly fell in love with Stevie and Jack! Their story had me wishing I could put life on hold until I finished their story. Stevie is a back country hiking guide for her Uncle’s company in North Carolina. Jack is a traveling nurse. I loved the banter between them. Both Stevie and Jack are stuck in life and find themselves on a journey to move forward. This is a closed door HEA.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love love loved this!!!!! Forced proximity, roommates, friends to lovers, slow burn, literally everything I could want in a romance!!!!! The pacing of this book was so well done and I loved the family dynamics explored as well as the emotional depth in both characters. I didn’t want to put it down!!! I also loved that the mmc was a travel nurse! It reminded me of just for the summer and I just love a doctor/nurse in a book! A new fave by Madison for sure
Thank you to Netgalley and heartbreaker pr for the arc!!!
Thank you to Netgalley and heartbreaker pr for the arc!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Madison Wright just doesn't miss & this one is well worth the wait for Stevie's story! If you have ever dreamed of living in the woods (bonus points if you've dreamt of living in an airstream) this book is for you!! Acauaintances to roommates to more - it is so perfect how the transition happens & it was so lovely to fall in love with both of them :) highly recommended if you like slow burn closed door romance - this one was wonderful & had so much growth for our two main characters too! Adored it!
Huge thanks to Netgalley for the arc - all thoughts & opinions are my own.
Huge thanks to Netgalley for the arc - all thoughts & opinions are my own.
May 23, 2026
Oh how I LOVED this book! 🤍🌲
I have been waiting for Stevie’s story for literally years at this point, and somehow it was even better than I imagined. Madison Wright wrote Stevie with so much heart, tenderness, and depth, and I could not have pictured her story unfolding more perfectly.
This book completely wrecking me emotionally in the best way. The romance, the healing, the atmosphere, the character growth… every bit of it was so beautifully done.
Stevie deserved this story, and honestly? So did we. 🥹✨
I have been waiting for Stevie’s story for literally years at this point, and somehow it was even better than I imagined. Madison Wright wrote Stevie with so much heart, tenderness, and depth, and I could not have pictured her story unfolding more perfectly.
This book completely wrecking me emotionally in the best way. The romance, the healing, the atmosphere, the character growth… every bit of it was so beautifully done.
Stevie deserved this story, and honestly? So did we. 🥹✨
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