A review by rebmay
Mountain Refuge by Elise Gedicke

challenging emotional hopeful mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

This book is the first in a new series. After reading this gripping book, I can’t wait to read the whole series. The characters are fascinating, true-to-life and drag me willingly into their story. Adam’s efforts to protect his kids from the truly evil machinations of someone who should love and protect them are at the centre of this story. A connection to a childhood friend proves to be life saving for Adam and the young children he desperately wants to keep safe. One phone call puts their well-being into the hands of a skilled group of people who are experienced in helping those who have found themselves in desperate straits and are in need of guidance, a safe haven and protection. After days of stealthy travel, a snow storm nearly brings a fatal ending to Adam and the children’s journey. Thankfully, Brooke is able to rescue the little family and bring them to her remote mountain cabin. That rescue is the beginning of a new chapter in the family’s lives and in Brooke’s. 

Brooke and her fellow residents on the mountain have their reasons for isolating themselves, living off grid and maintaining a self-sustaining life style. The storm means Adam and the children will be Brooke’s houseguests for at least a few days, though none of them expect to develop deep feelings or to begin to dream of a future together. Their story is fraught with danger, self-reflection and growth, as well as confronting the demons that haunt them. It also features a wonderful slow-burn romance between two people who have more than enough reasons to guard their hearts and turn their backs to any new relationships. The network of men and women who work together to aid and protect the innocent in horrible situations is also a focus of this book and introduces readers to characters who will featured in other books in this series. 

It was easy to fall for Brooke, Adam (Elijah) and the young kids. Their love story is poignant, rather bumpy and a tad spicy. They both transform over the months since his and the kids arrival on the mountain. It is young Belle who truly melts my heart as she transforms from a terrified and withdrawn young girl into a fierce, independent and feisty young lady who can protect herself and those she loves if necessary. I could not put this book down and stayed up into the wee hours of the morning in order to discover what happens with Brooke, Adam (Elijah) and the children. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this compelling book. It has my highest of recommendations.