Lyssa J. Cole's Fascinated with the Mountain Man is a delightful addition to the world of short, steamy romance novelettes, offering readers a quick escape into the picturesque setting of a New England town. This story is part of the The Mountain Men of Apple Falls series, and it promises to deliver a whirlwind of emotions in just one hour of reading. For those who enjoy the thrill of forbidden love, the allure of small-town charm, and the intensity of instalove, this book is a must-read.

The narrative centers around a rugged mountain man who has found solace and purpose in his dairy farm, a sanctuary built with the help of his two closest friends. The protagonist's journey from a man with nowhere to go to a successful farm owner is a testament to themes of resilience and the power of friendship. The farm, with its array of animals, serves as a metaphor for the family he never had, highlighting the importance of creating one's own community and sense of belonging.

At the heart of the story is a forbidden romance that adds a layer of tension and excitement. The protagonist harbors deep feelings for a curvy girl who sees beauty in the world, a character who brings light and warmth into his life. However, the complication arises from the fact that she is the sister of his best friend, who has explicitly declared her off-limits. This dynamic introduces the classic trope of a brother's best friend romance, a theme that has been explored in various forms in the romance genre.

What sets Fascinated with the Mountain Man apart is its ability to weave this familiar trope into a fresh and engaging narrative. The protagonist's internal struggle between his desires and his loyalty to his best friend adds depth to his character. He is portrayed as a "broken man," yet his vulnerability and yearning for love make him relatable and endearing. The curvy girl, on the other hand, is depicted as a beacon of hope and passion, someone who sees beyond the protagonist's rough exterior to the heart of the man beneath.

The setting of a small New England town adds a charming backdrop to the story. The author paints a vivid picture of this idyllic locale, enhancing the sense of escapism that readers seek in romance novels. The town itself becomes a character, with its quaint charm and close-knit community, providing the perfect stage for the unfolding drama.

In terms of character development, Lyssa J. Cole does an admirable job within the constraints of a short novelette. The protagonist's growth is evident as he grapples with his feelings and the potential consequences of pursuing the woman he loves. The curvy girl, while not as deeply explored, serves as a catalyst for his transformation, challenging him to confront his fears and insecurities.

The book's brevity is both a strength and a limitation. On one hand, it allows for a fast-paced, intense reading experience that can be enjoyed in a single sitting. On the other hand, some readers may find themselves wishing for more depth and exploration of the characters' backgrounds and motivations. However, for those who appreciate the immediacy and intensity of instalove, this format is ideal.

Comparatively, Fascinated with the Mountain Man shares thematic similarities with works by authors like Alexa Riley and Jessa Kane, who are known for their short, steamy romances featuring strong, protective heroes and the women who captivate them. Like these authors, Lyssa J. Cole excels at creating chemistry and tension between her characters, drawing readers into their world with ease.

Overall, Fascinated with the Mountain Man is a captivating read that delivers on its promise of a quick, steamy romance set against the backdrop of a charming small town. It explores themes of love, loyalty, and self-discovery, all while maintaining a sense of fun and escapism. For fans of the brother's best friend trope and those who enjoy a good instalove story, this book is a delightful addition to their reading list.

While it may not offer the depth of a full-length novel, its concise storytelling and engaging characters make it a satisfying read for anyone looking to indulge in a bit of romance. Lyssa J. Cole has crafted a tale that is both heartwarming and tantalizing, leaving readers eager to explore more of the The Mountain Men of Apple Falls series.