Ash Kelly's Kissing the Wrong Mountain Man is a delightful foray into the world of contemporary romance, where mistaken identities and unexpected connections lead to a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and love. The novel, with its intriguing premise and engaging characters, is a testament to Kelly's ability to weave a story that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

The story begins with a classic romantic trope: a plan to make an ex jealous. Our protagonist, a bestselling romance author, finds herself in a precarious situation, not just because of her tumultuous love life but also due to the new life she is carrying. Her decision to focus on herself and her unborn child is a refreshing take on self-empowerment, a theme that resonates throughout the book. However, the plot takes an unexpected turn when she mistakenly kisses the wrong mountain man, Brock Palladino.

Brock is the quintessential mountain man—ruggedly handsome, with a demeanor that exudes strength and stability. His character is a refreshing departure from the typical alpha male archetype often found in romance novels. Instead, Brock is portrayed with a depth that makes him relatable and endearing. His genuine concern for the protagonist and his quiet strength provide a sense of peace that she has been missing in her life. This dynamic between the two characters is one of the novel's strongest points, as it explores the idea of finding solace and strength in unexpected places.

The development of the protagonist is another highlight of the book. As a romance author, she is acutely aware of the clichés and pitfalls of love stories, yet she finds herself living one. Her journey from a woman scorned to someone who learns to trust and open her heart again is portrayed with sensitivity and realism. Her internal struggles and growth are depicted with a nuance that adds depth to her character, making her journey both relatable and inspiring.

Kelly's writing style is engaging and fluid, with a knack for creating vivid imagery that brings the setting to life. The mountain backdrop serves as more than just a picturesque setting; it becomes a character in its own right, symbolizing the rugged beauty and unpredictability of life and love. The author's ability to intertwine the setting with the emotional landscape of the characters adds an additional layer of richness to the narrative.

The themes of the novel are universal and timeless—love, forgiveness, and the courage to embrace new beginnings. Kelly handles these themes with a deft touch, avoiding melodrama and instead opting for a more grounded and realistic portrayal of relationships. The novel also touches on the importance of self-love and the strength that comes from within, making it a story that resonates on multiple levels.

In comparison to other contemporary romance novels, Kissing the Wrong Mountain Man stands out for its character-driven narrative and emotional depth. While it shares similarities with works by authors like Christina Lauren and Sally Thorne, Kelly's novel carves its own niche with its unique blend of humor, heart, and introspection. The mistaken identity trope, while familiar, is executed with a fresh twist that keeps the reader engaged and invested in the characters' journey.

Overall, Kissing the Wrong Mountain Man is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance and those looking for a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Ash Kelly has crafted a novel that not only entertains but also offers insights into the complexities of love and the power of second chances. It's a book that will leave readers with a smile on their face and warmth in their hearts, making it a worthy addition to any romance lover's bookshelf.

For those interested in exploring more about this book, you can find it on Goodreads or Amazon.