Amy Daws’ latest offering in the Mountain Men Matchmaker series serves up a deliciously complex tale that pushes boundaries while tugging heartstrings. “Nine Month Contract” introduces us to grumpy mountain man Wyatt and free-spirited animal rescuer Trista in an unconventional romance that explores surrogacy, family dynamics, and the messy business of falling in love when you least expect it.
Plot Foundation: More Than Just a Business Transaction
The premise hooks readers immediately with its audacious Craigslist ad seeking a surrogate – complete with warnings about goat droppings and grunting communication. When Trista responds to Wyatt’s unconventional baby-making proposal, what begins as a purely transactional arrangement slowly morphs into something neither party anticipated.
Wyatt, scarred by past betrayals and determined to become a single father, believes he has everything figured out. Trista, equally commitment-phobic and focused on her animal rescue dreams, sees this as the perfect opportunity to fund her future plans. The beauty lies in watching two emotionally guarded individuals slowly dismantle their carefully constructed walls while navigating the complexities of pregnancy, family expectations, and unexpected desire.
The storytelling unfolds through dual perspectives, allowing readers intimate access to both characters’ internal struggles. Daws expertly weaves together themes of trust, vulnerability, and the different ways people define family, creating depth beyond the surface-level romance.
Character Development: Flawed, Real, and Utterly Human
Wyatt: The Wounded Mountain Man
Wyatt emerges as a beautifully complex protagonist whose grumpiness masks deep-seated trust issues. His backstory with Robyn – a woman who simultaneously pursued him and his brothers – adds layers of psychological damage that feel authentic rather than contrived. The author skillfully reveals how this betrayal shaped his determination to avoid romantic entanglements while still craving fatherhood.
His relationship with his pet goat Strudel provides both comedic relief and insight into his capacity for unconditional love. The moments where Wyatt’s protective instincts surface – particularly when he notices Trista’s exhausting schedule or becomes possessive about her wellbeing – showcase his inherent caring nature beneath the gruff exterior.
Trista: The Independent Spirit with Hidden Depths
Trista’s character arc proves equally compelling. Her backstory of parental abandonment and her sister Vada’s departure creates a woman who simultaneously craves connection and fears it. Her work at the animal rescue center isn’t just a job – it’s her safe space where she can love without risk of abandonment.
The author handles Trista’s body image issues with remarkable sensitivity. Her confidence in her curvy figure coupled with internalized assumptions about romantic rejection creates a realistic portrayal of how society’s messaging affects self-worth. Her evolution from viewing herself as “just the incubator” to embracing her worth as a partner demonstrates genuine character growth.
Romance Elements: Chemistry That Sizzles and Burns
The romantic tension builds masterfully throughout the narrative. Daws creates palpable chemistry through seemingly mundane interactions – breakfast deliveries, animal care discussions, and shared moments of vulnerability. The sexual tension doesn’t rely solely on physical attraction but builds through emotional intimacy and mutual respect.
The author’s handling of their intimate scenes strikes an excellent balance between passion and emotional connection. The barn scene where years of restraint finally break down feels earned rather than gratuitous. Their physical relationship becomes another layer of communication for two people who struggle with verbal expression.
However, the romance occasionally suffers from miscommunication tropes that feel slightly forced. Trista’s repeated attempts to push Wyatt away when she clearly wants the opposite sometimes strain credibility, though it’s somewhat justified by her abandonment issues.
Supporting Cast: The Mountain Men Brotherhood
The secondary characters breathe life into the mountain setting. Calder and Luke, Wyatt’s brothers, provide both comic relief and emotional support. Their protective teasing and unwavering loyalty to each other creates a found family dynamic that enhances the story’s themes.
Everly, the matchmaking niece, deserves special mention for her spirited personality and determination to help her uncle find happiness. Her youth provides innocence to balance the adult complications, while her impending departure to Ireland adds urgency to the family dynamics.
Max, the eldest brother, appears primarily to establish the broader series connections, hinting at future stories while maintaining his role as the responsible patriarch.
Series Integration: Building the Mountain Men Matchmaker World
This first installment effectively establishes the series foundation while telling a complete story. References to upcoming books “Seven Year Itch” featuring Calder and Dakota, and “Honeymoon Phase,” create anticipation without overwhelming the current narrative.
“Nine Month Contract” successfully launches what promises to be an engaging series exploring different types of love and commitment among the mountain-dwelling brothers. Each character receives enough development to intrigue readers about their future romantic journeys.
Writing Style: Humor Meets Heart
Daws demonstrates her signature blend of humor and emotion throughout the narrative. Her dialogue feels natural and character-appropriate, from Wyatt’s grunts and one-word responses to Trista’s rapid-fire commentary. The author’s experience with contemporary romance shines through in her pacing and emotional beats.
The humor never undermines the serious emotional stakes. Moments of levity – like the goat’s antics or the brothers’ teasing – provide necessary breathing room between intense emotional revelations. The balance prevents the story from becoming too heavy while maintaining respect for the characters’ struggles.
Sensitive Topic Handling: Surrogacy with Respect
The author’s thoughtful approach to surrogacy in “Nine Month Contract” deserves recognition. Her research shows in the realistic portrayal of the emotional and legal complexities involved. The story acknowledges the potential for exploitation while presenting a scenario where both parties benefit and maintain agency.
The inclusion of sensitivity readers and consultation with actual surrogates demonstrates Daws’ commitment to respectful representation. The emotional journey of pregnancy when the baby isn’t intended to be yours feels authentic and nuanced.
Areas for Improvement: Minor Stumbles in Paradise
While the overall execution succeeds, certain elements could be stronger. The pacing occasionally rushes through important emotional developments, particularly Trista’s transformation from determined independence to openness about partnership. Some of her internal monologues become repetitive, especially regarding her fears of abandonment.
The resolution feels somewhat convenient, with Trista’s sudden willingness to embrace marriage and family life happening perhaps too quickly after months of resistance. A bit more gradual acceptance of her changing desires might have felt more organic.
Additionally, some secondary plot threads – like Trista’s financial struggles and rescue center dreams – could have been more fully developed to add dimension to her character arc.
Comparative Analysis: Standing Out in Contemporary Romance
“Nine Month Contract” distinguishes itself in the crowded contemporary romance market through its unique premise and authentic character development. Unlike many billionaire or small-town romances, this story grounds itself in real emotional stakes and practical concerns.
Fans of authors like Helena Hunting, Christina Lauren, or Lucy Score will appreciate Daws’ blend of humor and heart. The mountain setting and blue-collar heroes echo themes found in works by authors like Kristen Proby or Lori Foster, while the surrogacy plot brings fresh perspective to familiar romance territory.
Similar Book Recommendations
Readers who enjoy “Nine Month Contract” might appreciate:
- “The Baby Contract” by Barbara Dunlop – Another surrogate romance with emotional depth
- “Mountain Man’s Baby” by Cassie Alexandra – Mountain setting with similar protective heroes
- “The Charlie Effect” by Elle Kennedy – Fake relationship that becomes real with excellent character development
- “Beach Read” by Emily Henry – Opposites attract with deeper emotional themes
- “The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne – Workplace tension that evolves into genuine love
Final Verdict: A Solid Foundation for Future Adventures
“Nine Month Contract” succeeds as both a standalone romance and series launcher. Despite minor pacing issues and occasionally forced conflict, the book delivers emotional satisfaction and character growth that romance readers crave. The unique premise, well-developed protagonists, and promise of future Mountain Men adventures create a compelling package.
Amy Daws proves her versatility by tackling a sensitive topic with humor and heart while never losing sight of the fundamental romance elements that drive the story. The result is an engaging read that balances entertainment with emotional depth, setting high expectations for the subsequent books in the Mountain Men Matchmaker series.
For readers seeking contemporary romance with substance, authentic characters, and a fresh take on family dynamics, “Nine Month Contract” delivers a satisfying experience that will leave them eagerly anticipating the next mountain adventure.
