Step into the rugged, romantic world of Kristen Ashley’s Colorado Mountain series, where the majestic Rockies cradle steamy love stories and heartfelt second chances. This contemporary romance saga, set in the fictional Colorado towns of Gnaw Bone, Carnal, and Chantelle, follows eight interconnected couples navigating passion, drama, and self-discovery. With its blend of alpha heroes, fierce heroines, and small-town charm, it’s a binge-worthy escape that’ll leave you swooning.
From the moment you crack open the first book, you’re whisked into a world where love conquers all, set against a backdrop of towering pines and cozy mountain cabins. Whether you’re a romance veteran or new to the genre, Colorado Mountain’s emotional depth and addictive storytelling make it impossible to put down.
How Colorado Mountain Began
Kristen Ashley, a New York Times bestselling author, crafted the Colorado Mountain series from her love of rugged landscapes and complex characters. Drawing inspiration from her time in Denver, Ashley envisioned a series that paired the wild beauty of Colorado with tales of redemption and romance. Launched in 2011 with The Gamble, the series grew into a fan-favorite, blending her signature gritty romance with small-town community vibes.
Ashley’s knack for writing flawed, relatable characters shines through, reflecting her belief in the power of love to heal. Her hands-on approach—publishing both independently and traditionally—allowed her to shape the series into a raw, emotional journey that resonates with readers worldwide.
The Heart of Colorado Mountain
The series kicks off with The Gamble, where Nina Sheridan escapes a lackluster engagement to find herself snowed in with Holden 'Max' Maxwell, a gruff mountain man with a heart of gold. Their fiery chemistry sets the tone for the series. Sweet Dreams follows Lauren Grahame, a waitress reinventing herself in Carnal, who tangles with Tatum Jackson, a brooding biker with a tender side. In Breathe, shy librarian Faye Goodknight wins over Chace Keaton, a cop haunted by his past, in a story that weaves mystery and heart. Bounty closes the saga with Deke Hight and Justice Lonesome, whose love story celebrates resilience.
At its core, Colorado Mountain explores second chances, self-discovery, and the strength of community. Ashley’s alpha males—think bearded, Harley-riding protectors—pair with strong, relatable heroines, creating electric romances. The vivid mountain setting amplifies the stakes, with snowstorms and small-town gossip adding drama. Fans rave about the rich secondary characters and epilogues that tie each story together, making every book feel like a visit to a beloved hometown.
The series’ style is unapologetically emotional, with steamy encounters balanced by raw vulnerability. Ashley’s conversational prose, packed with humor and heart, pulls you into the characters’ lives, making their triumphs and struggles feel personal.
Why Colorado Mountain Resonates
Colorado Mountain has carved a niche in contemporary romance for its authentic portrayal of mature characters—often in their 30s and 40s—facing real-world challenges. Fans adore Ashley’s ability to blend heat with heart, creating stories that feel like a warm hug and a wild ride. The series’ emphasis on sisterhood and friendship, a hallmark of Ashley’s work, has inspired her Rock Chick Nation, a community-focused initiative that celebrates female empowerment.
With millions of books sold and translations in over a dozen languages, Colorado Mountain’s universal themes of love and redemption keep readers coming back. Its interconnected standalone format makes it easy to dive in, while the emotional payoff keeps fans rereading. For romance lovers, it’s a timeless escape into a world where love always wins.
- Publication Years: 2011–2016
- Number of Books: 7
- Key Themes: Second chances, self-discovery, community
- Setting: Fictional Colorado towns of Gnaw Bone, Carnal, and Chantelle
Ready to fall in love with Colorado Mountain? Grab The Gamble and dive into a world of rugged romance and mountain magic!