Book Review: Here With Me by Brooke Montgomery

I have a book recommendation that’s going to set your heart racing and your emotions on a rollercoaster ride! If you love age-gap romance, forbidden love, and that delicious tension of pining for someone you can’t have, Here With Me by Brooke Montgomery is about to become your next obsession.

Let me set the scene: we’re talking about a small-town romance where sparks fly between Noah, a daring horse trainer, and Fisher, her ex-boyfriend’s dad. Yes, you read that right—her ex-boyfriend’s dad. I know, it’s a lot to unpack, but trust me, it’s worth it!

The Setup: A Rodeo Romance Gone Wrong (Or Right?)

Noah meets Fisher at a rodeo, and honestly, it’s love at first sight. They have an unforgettable night together—one of those nights that feels like it’s straight out of a romance movie. But when she wakes up the next morning and realizes who he really is, she does what any rational woman would do: she makes a run for it. I mean, it’s not like she’s ever going to see him again, right? WRONG.

Cue the drama. Fisher shows up at Noah’s family’s ranch as the new farrier. And let me tell you, the tension between them? Off the charts. They’re forced to work together, but they can’t be anything more than friends. He’s twice her age, her ex’s dad, and there are all these pesky rules about workplace relationships. Oh, and did I mention her ex is trying to win her back? Yeah, things are super super complicated.

The Forbidden Age-Gap Romance

Okay, let’s dive into the forbidden love trope because if you’re like me, you’re a sucker for it—and Brooke Montgomery absolutely delivers here. There’s something so magnetic about the idea of falling for someone you shouldn’t be with, and the age-gap dynamic makes it all the more irresistible. Utterly delicious. Fisher is older, wiser, and carries this kind of rugged, experienced energy that makes Noah’s heart race and her mind go into overdrive. They shouldn’t want each other—she’s the daughter of his ex’s best friend, and the age difference alone makes things messy—but every stolen glance and quiet moment between them makes it impossible to ignore the pull.

What I love about forbidden love is the way it makes every interaction feel like a secret, a risk. It’s that constant tension of wanting to give in but knowing that doing so could unravel everything. The idea that their love is off-limits just makes every touch, every word exchanged, feel like it’s laced with danger—and that makes the stakes feel so much higher. You’re rooting for them to break all the rules, even though you know it might not end well. It’s the kind of tension that keeps you turning pages long into the night.

And the age-gap aspect? It’s just the cherry on top. The fact that Fisher is twice Noah’s age adds this layer of complexity that makes their connection feel forbidden on multiple levels. There’s this unspoken understanding between them that they’re from two different worlds—he’s lived a whole life before her, with baggage and regrets, while she’s still figuring out who she is. But that contrast makes their bond even more electric. There’s a vulnerability in Fisher’s past that makes him doubt he deserves love, and Noah’s fierce independence and confidence make her want to fight for a future that feels just out of reach. It’s messy, it’s emotional, and it’s exactly what makes forbidden love so intoxicating.

Pining, Secrets, and Small-Town Drama

Now, let’s talk about the pining. Oh my goodness, the way they both try to hide their feelings while working together—chef’s kiss. The secret glances, the stolen moments, and the constant tug-of-war between wanting to be together and knowing they can’t—it’s the stuff romance dreams are made of. I found myself rooting for them to give in, even though I knew it would cause chaos in their lives.

And then there’s the small-town drama. You know how it is—secrets don’t stay secret for long. Throw in a jealous ex who’s determined to win Noah back and a rival out to get her, and you’ve got a recipe for one wild, emotional ride. Every time they think they’re getting a moment of peace, something else gets in the way, making it all the more delicious.

Here With Me is a perfect mix of flirty, emotional, and heart-pounding. It’s the kind of book that makes you feel all the things—excitement, frustration, joy, and even a little heartbreak. If you’re into forbidden age-gap romances, messy feelings, and small-town drama, you need to read this book. Trust me, you’ll be hooked from the first page.

So, grab a glass of wine, get cosy, and dive into this slow-burn romance. I’m still thinking about it!