Teacher's Crush

by River Ford

Jennifer Carlson returns to Eureka Springs in spite of her promise to never move back. Newly graduated, her only goal is to help her dad and get out of town. However, the good-looking biker has her second guessing what she really wants.

High school principal, Robert Allen has never been so conflicted. He was attracted to Jen before she walked into his office for an interview. Her sass, attitude, and the pain she tries to hide behind those big blue eyes make her unforgettable.

Jen needs a job, but she also longs for someone to see the real her and want her anyway. Rob could be that guy if only he can convince her she doesn't have to run away from her future.

200 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 16, 2019

About the author

I met the man I would marry when I was twelve years old. We went on our first date to my junior prom when we were sixteen. My hair was teased in true 90's style, stuffed with baby's breath, and my blue dress had the puffiest of sleeves. I felt like Cinderella on her way to the ball.

Our romance was a classic slow burn. Seriously, it took him two years to finally kiss me! But it was worth the wait. We were married at the age of twenty-two and have been chasing our happily ever after since then.

It wasn't all hearts and roses. We supported each other through college, four kids, multiple jobs and moves, and various emotional and health struggles. We've remained best friends through it all, which is why I believe in true love and happily ever afters.

The challenges and successes of finding and fighting to keep love are what I strive to bring to my stories. When I was growing up, everyone acted like finding your love was the end. After that, everything would be wonderful, but life isn't like that. Every day is a choice, and I strive to bring that reality to my romance stories.

Reviews

[Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the awesome ability to read an ARC of this book! I absolutely loved this story. There was so many emotions that I felt throughout reading this. I can relate to Jen’s need to run away from hurt and despair, as I used to do the same when I was younger. It was a very clean love story that I’d let my teenage daughter read.

[poppy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much more than I thought I would don't get me wrong the blurb sounded really good but I was not expecting to not want to put it down, this was such a good well written read and I really enjoyed Jen and Rob's story. This was a super read and I hope the rest of the series is just as good.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jennifer Carlson vowed, when she left Eureka Springs, that she was never coming back. Her mother had run out on her without a single word when she was still a little girl, and her dad was a cruel and difficult man who never had a kind word to say to her. In fact, he did his best to cut her down and let her know that she was worthless. But now she's back, after getting a call that her father wasn't doing well, and Eureka Springs looks like nothing has changed, except for the bicyclist she almost ran into, and his kind, blue eyes. She lost her teaching job to come home to take care of her father, but there's an opening at her old alma mater. Robert (Rob) Allen is the principal at the school, as well as an exercise fanatic and expert in all things trivia. The house next door to his is a wreck, with boxes and bags everywhere, but the worst part is the smell that emanates from just inside the door. There's a new car in the driveway and, when he looks closer, he can see that it's the beautiful redhead he almost clipped on his bike. It's cute how Rob tries to get Jenn to pay attention to him and to get her to go out on a date, but she keeps her distance. At first, she comes up with excuses while, on the inside, she really wants to be with him. Her personal issues and challenges with her father have kept her from opening up to anyone, but it's time to take a chance. This story is so cute, but deals with some serious issues. Body image, rheumatoid arthritis, mental illness and mental decline are just a few, but they are handled with a light touch. The narration is very well done by Edward F Norris. Each character is given a distinct and well-modulated voice and personality.

[Rose Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Teacher’s Crush by River Ford is one of those stories that pulls you in with its small-town charm and keeps you hooked with emotional tension and undeniable chemistry.

Jennifer is easy to root for right away. She comes back to Eureka Springs with her guard up and a clear plan to leave as soon as possible, but you can feel there’s more going on beneath the surface. I really liked how her character balances strength with vulnerability, she’s not just running away, she’s protecting herself.

Rob, on the other hand, is such an interesting match for her. As a principal, he’s dealing with his own internal conflict, especially when it comes to his growing feelings for Jen. Their dynamic has that push-and-pull energy that makes you want to keep turning pages. There’s definitely chemistry, but also emotional depth, which made their connection feel more real.

I actually listened to the audiobook version, and the narration by Edward F. Norris III was good. He brought the characters to life in a way that made the story even more engaging and easy to get lost in.

The small-town setting adds a cozy backdrop, and the story leans into themes of healing, trust, and figuring out where you truly belong. It’s not just about romance, it’s about letting go of the past and being open to something better.

If I had one small critique, it would be that at times I wanted just a bit more development in certain moments to fully explore their relationship. But overall, it didn’t take away from the enjoyment.

This is a sweet, slightly angsty romance with strong characters and a satisfying emotional journey, perfect if you enjoy small-town love stories with a bit of tension and heart.

[Catrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this charming installment in the Eureka in Love series. Jen and Rob’s story felt grounded and genuine, with characters who navigate their challenges in ways that make them easy to relate to. Their emotional journey has a nice blend of heart, vulnerability, and small‑town warmth that fits well with the tone of the series.

River Ford continues to write characters that feel like real people, and I appreciated seeing Jen and Rob work through their uncertainties while still offering each other support. Their interactions felt sincere, and I liked how naturally their connection developed.

Edward F. Norris III does a solid job bringing the story to life. His narration is steady and engaging, complementing the characters without overshadowing them. This was an enjoyable listen overall and a nice addition to the series.

I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.

[Amanda Parry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jen loves to run. It became an escape for her when she was in high school in a small town living with a dad who was cruel to her. Her mom walked out and she didn't know why. Jen goes away to college and work with no intention of going home to live until her hoarder dad needs her. Hopefully her return will only be temporary... Enter Rob. She catches his eye right away, and although he's nervous around her at first, the friendship gets easier. She doesn't want to lay down any roots, but Rob is kind... And attractive.
I enjoyed this read. The characters were likeable and interesting, including secondary characters. The romance was clean, and although God is mentioned, the story never gets preachy.

[Paula Dyches · Rating 4 out of 5]

"It felt like one of those Hallmark movies."

Parents-PG
Language- none
Violence- none
Sexual Content- kissing, very clean nothing to warn of

Narrator did ok 3⭐ but he didn't totally fit characters... One of the guys has a bit of an announcer voice which is a bit distracting. The speed was a little slow but better around 1.25-1.35x speed.

Very Hallmark romance in writing style which isn't necessarily a bad thing... I believe that's what the author was going for since it's referenced several times in the book as the romance between the two characters being fast or too perfect like a Hallmark movie. Overall, it's a sweet fluffy romance and great for when the mood for such hits.

—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to review an audiobook copy of this book and really enjoyed it. The narrator also did a nice job with emotions and differentiating each character. It was a heartwarming story and Jen and Rob were really great well-developed characters that I immediately fell in love with. Jen is fighting demons from her past and despite the attraction and connection she feels with Rob, she doesn't allow anything to progress between them. Rob is determined to break down her barriers and convince her to stop running from her past and learn to trust and hope again. So many emotions are displayed through this beautiful and heartwarming story. Such a lovely addition the series! Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy from StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this romance story with all of the characters. The two main characters were Jennifer Carlson and Robert Allen.

Jennifer Carlson has returned to the town of Eureka Spring to help her father. Her father health is not  doing good. Jennifer needs a job because she can't stay with her father for long. It is because how he been living in piles of things and also litter. While looking for a job she meet a man.

Robert Allen is the high school principal in the town of Eureka Spring. While riding his bike he meets somebody new to town.

This was a enjoyable story to read. It has action, adventure, and drama. It had a few laughs and giggles throughout.

I received a complimentary copy via StoryOrigin. This is my honest unbiased opinions.

[Berta Greenleaf Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful story by River Ford. I had a hard time putting this book down, I wanted to see how it ended and then didn't want it to end. Jen had a hard childhood and it left emotional scars she tried to deal with on a daily basis. She meets the new principal of the high school when she suddenly returns to Eureka Springs. He likes her but she fights him and her own emotions. She finds she has a total crush on him too. Even though her life is not going according to her plans she finds in the end happiness wins out. Rob is exactly what she needs for her future. I think everyone wishes they had family and friends like the ones in Eureka Springs.

I received this book as an Arc and am leaving a review voluntarily.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jennifer did not have the best upbringing. Her mom ran out on them when she was a child. Her father went from a nice guy to spiteful, and frequently cutting her down. She was notified her father is not doing well, so she returns to help care for him. Oh my, his place is in awful shape. She applies for a teaching job to support herself while in Eureka. Rob is the school principal, and falls for Jennifer. Can he still hire her, or is that a conflict of interest? As the story unfolds you learn so much about Jennifer and her life. The secrets are heartbreaking. I really enjoyed this story. Good job with narration.

I received a free copy of this audiobook, and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a great story!
This story is about strength, courage & love. I mean love as in familial love not romantic love and, on the surface, the familial love is one sided.
Jen's father has been nothing but mean & hurtful to her since her mother left when she was a teenager. Yet when he is unable to look after himself and has driven away all help, she moves home to care for him. He is still mean & hurtful and this is where the strength & courage come in. She needs both to ignore his hurtful ways and not let them hurt her.
The story is written so well, that I felt every emotion that Jen felt.
I received a review copy courtesy of StoryOrigin and this is my honest, voluntary review.

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprises and finally love

Jen and Rob finally figure things out. River Ford does a great job of defining her characters. I grew to love Jen even with her insecurities, or maybe because of them. I felt bad for her that she thought she was unlovable and ran from anybody who wanted to get close to her. Rob was the perfect companion for Jen. I liked the many twists in Teacher’s Crush that kept surprising me while helping me understand and love Rob and Jen even more. This book is well written and kept me wanting to read a little bit more.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jen has returned to her home town to help her verbally abusive, hoarder father. She is a teacher and needs a job. She meets Rob, the principal. There is instant attraction. But they could be working together. Plus Jen has insecurity issues. She tends to run from relationships. This is their story.
I found the narration in this book to be a little distracting. He had different voices for each character, which I like. But some were harsh. Some were corny sounding.
4 stars for the story. 4 stars for the narration.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Story Origin.

[Amanda Marlowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jen comes home to Eureka Springs to look after her father, who has collected so much stuff that the social services won't go and take care of him. She meets Rob, not knowing that he's the head of the local school that she's applied to, once she finds out she won't follow through with the attraction between them.
She's always kept to herself and won't accept help from anyone, not even her friends.

A good emotional read.

[A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Teachers’s Crush is the next book in the Eureka in Love series by River Ford. This was a good contemporary romance. Jenn came home to Frank with her dad. She needs a teaching job, but life might stand in the way. Her friend Carrie is there to help her asking the way. Rob is fascinated by Jenn. There is something that Jenn doesn’t know about him. Can they make this relationship work? He really steps up when she needs help. I enjoyed listening to this story.

[Michaela | Reading in the Heartland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this teacher principal romance! The hoarder family situation and the emotional and professional walls... I gobbled it up! Literally, read it in one sitting and put sleep on the back burner. I love these Eureka Spings romances!

I received a complimentary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Nati · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jennifer is back in Eureka Spring to take care of her father. She is been running away from home and all the sadness in it. Can Principal Robert show her how to open up again and find love Andrew happiness even if Jen needs the job as a teacher in Eureka High School? Good audiobook and good narrator

[Jocelyne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Eureka in Love series, a small town romance. This is a series of interconnected stories, and it was great to see again the characters from the first books in the series. Jennifer (Jen) and Robert (Rob)'s story is sweet and emotional. I liked Rob's determination. The narrator did a good job with the narration. Looking forward for more in the series.

[Cricket1327_Zmob King · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really enjoyable read! Great characters with a smooth flowing story. It has just the right amount of drama, friendships and romance! I can't wait to read more about the other characters and the town!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This next installment of the Eureka in Love series, This romantic and steamy story has evolved within this town. We get to see more into the characters that have been previously introduced. Jennifer is fighting her attraction to the High School principle.

[Carrie McCauley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love Eureka Springs! Each story brings you back to the people of this small town that you love to hear about.
I like this one because it explores the family dynamic of a parent with mental health issues and how that affects the child. now grown. I also love that the town Jennifer grew up in never let her deal with it alone. Then, add Robert who is new to her but trusted by the town. A romance in the making, with just a bit more effort and understanding.
The narration as always was amazing!!

[Miss C · Rating 4 out of 5]

A moving novel that touches on the sad reality of low self esteem, loss, and the beauty of resilience and loyalty.
This clean, sweet romance is suitable for young adult readers and up.

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was really enjoyable read. I was sad when it ended, I could have easily read another 200 pages of this love story!

[Kirsty Barrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loving this series. The intricate weaving of the story with characters appearing in other books in the series is great. Easy relaxed pace, and great characters.

[Jean Durbin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful cozy romance about looking past 1st impressions to what someone is really like, and doing what is needed to make it work.

[Tami Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Part of an interconnected series that is best read in order but not required. Some of the characters overlap
Opposites attract
Forbidden romance
toxic family
Matchmaking townsfolk

[Hanny Carmel · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is not the first book of this series that I read, but I think it's the one I liked the least.
A little boring, nothing new.
The narration did nothing to make it any better.
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Urszula · Rating 3 out of 5]

WA story full of characters full of issues. Their relationships are also not easy. Nice reality and background. Interesting plot. Nice, relaxing read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you’ve been running from problems all your life, it becomes second nature to run from new things too.
Jen is a deeply troubled woman trying to hide from everyone and everything. Problem is you cannot hide from yourself as you are always there. She has developed some good and not so good coping skills that help out to some degree until she is faced with all the hurt and pain she suffered in her home town. Rob is a good guy who is genuinely interested in her but he also has to learn some new life lessons if he wishes to have any chance of having any type of relationship with Jen. What transpires is a lot of family and friends drama, which everyone trying to juggle it all so nothing comes crashing down on anybody. Unique look at the life of a hoarder from the family’s perspective.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.