This is a good book. The two main characters are Josephine and Angelo. Josephine is a teacher and Angelo runs his family’s pub. They are both having a ski day at a resort. Angelo has a booked room, Josephine was going to leave but a snowstorm happened. Angelo offers to let her stay in his room. She takes him up on it. There is an attraction. They decide to start dating. They have dinner with her parents and they forbid her to date him due to a family grudge. They figure a way to fixit. They fall in love.

In "Mountain Lodge," R.J. Groves crafts a heartfelt narrative that explores the complexities of love, family, and the challenge of following one's heart in the face of societal expectations. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Ash Gully, this novel introduces us to Josephine Romano, a schoolteacher whose romantic history has been marred by her parents’ disapproval. As she returns to her hometown, Josephine finds herself at a crossroads—ready to settle down but reluctant to embrace the suitors her parents envision for her future. The protagonist's internal conflict is relatable and deeply engaging. Josephine's journey is emblematic of many individuals caught between familial obligations and personal desires. Groves does an excellent job of portraying her longing for independence while highlighting the weight of parental expectations that often accompany decisions about love. Readers can empathize with Josephine’s plight as she grapples with her aspirations versus the inherited values of her upbringing. Enter Angelo Rossi, the charismatic owner of Ash Gully’s only pub. His longstanding affection for Josephine adds another layer of complexity to the story. Groves skillfully develops their friendship, allowing readers to witness the slow burn of attraction that simmers just beneath the surface. The dynamic between Josephine and Angelo is well-crafted, showcasing the tension that arises when friendship blurs the line into something deeper. Their chemistry is palpable, enriched by the poignant backdrop of a snowstorm that forces them into a cozy, intimate setting—an element that serves as both a plot device and a metaphor for their burgeoning relationship. However, the plot thickens when the revelation of an old family feud complicates their budding romance. This conflict adds depth to the narrative, reflecting the realities of how historical animosities can shape present circumstances. Groves adeptly navigates this theme, illustrating the struggle to reconcile personal happiness with familial loyalty. The tension between Josephine’s desire for love and her parents’ expectations creates a compelling dilemma that drives the plot forward. "Mountain Lodge" is not merely a romance; it is a story about healing and redemption. As Josephine and Angelo confront their families' prejudices, readers are invited to ponder whether love can truly conquer all. Groves does a commendable job of exploring these themes, offering insights into the importance of communication, understanding, and the courage to challenge long-standing beliefs. The pacing of the story flows beautifully, transitioning seamlessly between moments of tension and tenderness. Groves’ vivid descriptions make Ash Gully come alive, transporting readers to a charming town where the warmth of community contrasts with the chill of unresolved conflict. The dialogue is authentic and engaging, further enhancing the reader's connection to the characters. In conclusion, R.J. Groves’ "Mountain Lodge" is a delightful read that resonates with anyone who has ever struggled to balance personal desires with familial expectations. With well-drawn characters, a captivating plot, and themes that strike a chord, this book is a testament to the transformative power of love and the importance of forging one’s path. Whether you’re a fan of romance or simply enjoy a well-crafted story, "Mountain Lodge" is sure to leave you with a sense of hope and the belief that love, when nurtured, can heal even the deepest of rifts.

This is the second book in the series. I loved the setting in this one. Cabin in the snow in the high country of Victoria. Small town atmosphere is always a winner for me . The added bonus is set in Australia. Love finding new authors.

I do love small town romances and this one is so good, it is winter, snowing and a snowstorm traps a couple who have been friends for a long time, but underneath has there always been the want for more than friendship, will this time together finally see them discover what they could have, or will an old family feud tear them apart? Come along and meet Josephine and Angelo.

Josephine Romano is loving her job as school teacher in Ash Gully, after losing her twin brother in an accident years ago she decides that it is time to get her life back and a weekend in the snow is the best way to start, coming from a very Italian family her parents want her to marry an Italian and settle down, but she has not found the best man yet.

Angelo Rossi has grown up in Ash Gully and loves running his family pub and he loves skiing he also has eyes for the school teacher Josephine but she doesn’t seem to notice him at all, that is until a snowstorm locks them in for a couple of days and they both realise that it is time to allow that love to open up.

Josephine is thrilled and sure her parents will be as well after all Angelo is Italian but what happens is a disaster for them both as an old family feud erupts. Will Josephine and Angelo be able to convince her parents that it is time to let the past go so as they can look to a future?

This is a beautiful story, filled with emotion wonderful characters and a fabulous setting, I did very much enjoy my return trip to Ash Gully and I am hoping there will be another visit. I do recommend this one to any romance reader who loves a small town romance.

My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my copy to read and review.

This is a nice romance with hints of Shakespearean’s family feud in Romeo and Juliet. I am glad I got to read it thru NetGalley. It’s a fun story of 2 young adults who have to figure out how to be together despite the past estrangement between their ancestors. A fun read for sure

Mountain Lodge is a sensual read that begins at Mount Hotham in the Victorian high country. Heroine Josephine Romano has just discovered that she’s missed the bus home after a day skiing and that there are no rooms to rent. Luckily for her, hunky Angelo Rossi, who owns a pub in her home town, Ash Gully, is staying at Mountain Lodge for the weekend and spots her drinking in the bar, her ski gear beside her. He’s had a thing for her for years but has never had the courage to do anything about it but seizes the opportunity to join her for a drink. The offer for her to share his room for the night means these two finally get to know each ther though there’s plenty of awkwardness that night. I really loved Josephine and angelo. They’re great characters and have a good supporting cast of equally well developed characters as friend and family. This is a really good story that flows well. The dialogue is excellent and really natural. The only thing that really annoyed me was the grammar, which pulled me out of the story time and time again.

3.5 ⭐

This book was a fun and quick read. I have not read the first book in the Ash Gulley series, but this book stood on its own and provided reference where appropriate. It would be a great holiday read or perfect reading while on a flight.

There was a lot packed into a tiny package here, and the storyline overall was great and the main characters were really likeable, but it lacked the depth I was craving that would come from a longer novel. I wanted Josephine to stand up to her family more. I wanted Angelo to fight harder for her and the "feud" had the potential to be explosive but was a bit of a let down.

Unfortunately, there were more things I disliked about this book than I enjoyed. I really struggled with multiple characters especially Josie. All characters came across as immature and with an inability to simply communicate. If people were able to have a simple conversation they wouldn't have had nearly as many issues. This all felt unnecessary and continued to drag on. This one just was not for me.