The Great Outdoors

Sadie Whitlock, the vivacious heroine of this flirty contemporary from Olson (The Lodge), sets out to prove her ex wrong by signing up for a rigorous backpacking adventure that he deemed her too “high-maintenance” to handle. Upon arrival in the Sierra Nevada, however, Sadie realizes she has all the wrong equipment and is deeply unprepared to rough it on the trail. Fortunately, gruff but handsome wilderness guide August Thorn is there to lend a hand. August has been wary of romance since his girlfriend took off with his best friend two years ago and knows getting involved with a client is forbidden, but he can’t help admiring Sadie’s determination and unexpected grit. Sadie and August’s early banter and easy friendship give way to some sizzling moments along the trail. Olson keeps the pages turning with entertaining drama involving the other backpackers and vivid descriptions of the mountains from both August’s and Sadie’s perspectives. She doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of their trek, creating both humor and danger along the way. The emotional journeys of the leads are similarly well rendered as they both gain confidence, learn to let each other in, and build a lasting connection. Armchair travelers will be especially delighted. (June)