Lyssa J. Cole's Smoldering Mountain Man is a delightful addition to the romance genre, offering readers a quick escape into a world where opposites attract, and love blooms in the most unexpected places. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque New England town, this short novelette is part of the Hot Mountain Nights Series and is designed to be devoured in one sitting. If you're a fan of steamy, instalove romances with a touch of adventure, this book might just be your next guilty pleasure.

The story begins with our protagonist, a curvy and relatable heroine, who finds herself lost in the woods while simply trying to pick wildflowers. Her predicament is one that many readers might find amusingly relatable—getting lost while attempting a seemingly simple task. This sets the stage for her encounter with the titular mountain man, a character who embodies the rugged, outdoorsy archetype that is often romanticized in contemporary romance literature.

What stands out in Smoldering Mountain Man is the dynamic between the two main characters. The heroine, who prefers the comfort of her home, a good book, and a glass of wine, is starkly contrasted with the mountain man, who is at home in the wild and embodies a more primal, earthy masculinity. This opposites attract theme is a classic trope in romance, but Cole manages to infuse it with fresh energy through her engaging writing style and the chemistry she builds between the characters.

The age gap between the characters adds another layer to their relationship. The mountain man, being older and wiser, brings a sense of stability and experience, which complements the heroine's more modern and perhaps naive outlook on life. This dynamic creates a balance that is both intriguing and heartwarming, as the characters learn from each other and grow together.

One of the strengths of this novelette is its ability to create a vivid sense of place. The New England setting is described with such detail that it becomes almost a character in its own right. The lush woods, the quaint small-town atmosphere, and the cozy interiors all contribute to the overall mood of the story, making it easy for readers to immerse themselves in this charming world.

In terms of character development, while the story is brief, Cole does an admirable job of giving her characters depth. The heroine's initial reluctance to embrace the outdoors is gradually transformed through her interactions with the mountain man, highlighting her growth and adaptability. Similarly, the mountain man's initial stoicism gives way to vulnerability as he opens up to the possibility of love and companionship.

However, given the brevity of the novelette, some readers might find the development of the romance to be somewhat rushed. The instalove aspect, while a staple of the genre, might not appeal to those who prefer a slow-burn romance. Yet, for those who enjoy quick, passionate love stories, this book delivers exactly what it promises.

Comparatively, Smoldering Mountain Man shares similarities with other works in the genre, such as the Bear Mountain series by Ruby Shae or the Mountain Men of Linesworth series by Frankie Love. These stories also feature rugged, outdoorsy heroes and the women who fall for them, often set in idyllic, remote locations. What sets Cole's work apart is her ability to blend humor with romance, creating a light-hearted yet steamy narrative that is both entertaining and satisfying.

Overall, Smoldering Mountain Man is a delightful read for anyone looking to escape into a world of romance and adventure. Its engaging characters, picturesque setting, and steamy romance make it a perfect choice for a cozy afternoon read. While it may not offer the depth of a full-length novel, its charm lies in its simplicity and the joy of watching two seemingly incompatible people find love in each other.

For readers who enjoy short, steamy romances with a touch of humor and adventure, Lyssa J. Cole's Smoldering Mountain Man is a must-read. It's a testament to the idea that love can be found in the most unexpected places and that sometimes, getting lost can lead to the most wonderful discoveries.