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Even If the Sky Is Falling
It’s the end of the world as they know it—or so they think… When an international warning siren accidentally goes off, convincing everyone that a meteor shower may just be the end of life as they know it, six couples—friends, exes, crushes and rivals—must take shelter. Inhibitions are abandoned, confessions are made and love blossoms, but what happens when the world doesn’t end? Filled with humor, heat and hope, this riveting collection of interconnected multicultural stories by acclaimed authors Lane Clarke, Farah Heron, Taj McCoy, Charish Reid, Sarah Smith and Denise Williams beautifully explores the secrets we carry with us—and the joy we discover when we let go and reach for the stars.
Audio CD
First published May 30, 2023
136 people are currently reading
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About the author
Taj McCoy
6 books733 followersOakland native and law grad, Taj McCoy, is committed to writing stories championing Black and biracial women of color, plus-sized protagonists, Black love, and characters with a strong sense of sisterhood and familial bonds. Taj started writing as a small child, enjoying the success of her first publications in elementary school. Since then, her dream has always been to become a professional writer. As a law student, she attempted her first novels and joined the Twitter writing community. Though Taj has spent more than ten years working in higher education administration, she continued to pursue her goal and ultimately finished her first novel in 2018, securing her agent in 2019.
When she’s not writing, Taj may be on Twitter boosting other marginalized writers, trying to zen out in yoga, sharing recipes on her website, binge-watching her favorite reality tv, or cooking private supper club meals for close friends. Catch her producing and co-hosting the Fat Like Me Podcast, which celebrates body diversity in publishing and entertainment, or watch her join forces with several writer friends on Sundays for the Better Than Brunch video podcast.
When she’s not writing, Taj may be on Twitter boosting other marginalized writers, trying to zen out in yoga, sharing recipes on her website, binge-watching her favorite reality tv, or cooking private supper club meals for close friends. Catch her producing and co-hosting the Fat Like Me Podcast, which celebrates body diversity in publishing and entertainment, or watch her join forces with several writer friends on Sundays for the Better Than Brunch video podcast.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 347 reviews
August 26, 2023
Listen…I don’t think those Y2K doomsday preppers would’ve been so scared if they’d have listened to this book like damn the end may be coming but so is everyone else !
The first short story sets the scene for the rest and even gets an epilogue at the end! Everyone say thank you Taj McCoy!!! I need more nichely themed and SEXY about it anthologies immediately.
My fav was Bunker Buddies (AHAHAH what a hoot) and I’ll immediately be reading everything from Charish Reid, but all of the stories were great and it’s hard to pick even a runner up bc they’re all up there. Each had at least one explicit sex scene!
10/10 recommend!! Many of these authors were at Steamy Lit Con and it was so fun experiencing their writing in this cheeky setting. Great audiobook as well. I will be rereading <3
The first short story sets the scene for the rest and even gets an epilogue at the end! Everyone say thank you Taj McCoy!!! I need more nichely themed and SEXY about it anthologies immediately.
My fav was Bunker Buddies (AHAHAH what a hoot) and I’ll immediately be reading everything from Charish Reid, but all of the stories were great and it’s hard to pick even a runner up bc they’re all up there. Each had at least one explicit sex scene!
10/10 recommend!! Many of these authors were at Steamy Lit Con and it was so fun experiencing their writing in this cheeky setting. Great audiobook as well. I will be rereading <3
June 12, 2023
2.5 stars
I will just go ahead and file this under the “why did I even bother” pile because six stories and I did not like anyone of them. Nope…not a single one 🤦🏾♀️
I will just go ahead and file this under the “why did I even bother” pile because six stories and I did not like anyone of them. Nope…not a single one 🤦🏾♀️
January 16, 2024
I'm typically not one for short story collections, but one of my resolutions is to be a better book club participant so I picked this up for that. As far as the premise goes, I did like it. When I picked it up I was in the middle of a Star Trek Discovery binge that has since given way to a Real Housewives binge, but the idea of space debris falling to Earth and a signal being what forced our potential couples together was cute. I'm all for forced proximity....
At least in theory. I do think that the first story really suffered from having to balance setting up the premise of the early alarm signal with this second chance moment. It didn't feel like there was time in the story to balance this woman being annoyed at the unprofessional actions of one of her crew members and her getting dicked down by a man that was too scared to commit to her just a few months before the story kicked off
The next story at the Atlanta flea market with the family rivalry and hints of being betrayed over a restaurant that was meant to be but didn't happen was fun. It had the perfect mix of characters with history that them being forced to spend time with one another made sense for them to fall in love. It was a really well done balance.
The third story I believe was that of sapphic law students locked in a basement study room. Again it was characters that had history we got to tease out over the course of the story. It helps that I had read Lane Clark's debut and loved it and so I wasn't surprised that I enjoyed their contribution to the collection.
After that though the collection definitely started to go a little downhill for me. It's really that those two were so nearly a five star that I'm willing to round up to a three and not leave it at a two.
There was a story about a historian I believe and the owner of the bookshop she worked at. All I really remember at this point was the basement they found themselves trapped in during the alarm and the uncomfortable Cold War era Soviet/CIA agent sexual roleplay they engaged it... Definitely didn't need that in my life.
The story of the jingle writer trapped her California basemene with the white man there to redo her cabinets was a new low. I hated everything about it. It read like really bad fanfiction and was almost all smut with no romance to be found and wasn't at all what I thought I would be getting out of a collection like this.
The last story of former academic rivals reuniting at an alumni event that is then sidetracked by the falling space debris alarm was fun. It also teetered into being too much of just smut for me, but ultimately did a better job of making me believe I was reading about real people and flushed out the characters a little more than exposing their desire to bone.
As a whole it was a fine time. I think that some of the ones I didn't like as much might have been more successful if they hadn't been short stories. I'm not sure how much experience any of the contributors have in that particular medium. I'm not even sure if they needed to be full novels, but even a novella length might have saved them. I do think there is a little something for everyone in this, unless you prefer your romance to be closed door in which case you'd be better off skipping altogether.
At least in theory. I do think that the first story really suffered from having to balance setting up the premise of the early alarm signal with this second chance moment. It didn't feel like there was time in the story to balance this woman being annoyed at the unprofessional actions of one of her crew members and her getting dicked down by a man that was too scared to commit to her just a few months before the story kicked off
The next story at the Atlanta flea market with the family rivalry and hints of being betrayed over a restaurant that was meant to be but didn't happen was fun. It had the perfect mix of characters with history that them being forced to spend time with one another made sense for them to fall in love. It was a really well done balance.
The third story I believe was that of sapphic law students locked in a basement study room. Again it was characters that had history we got to tease out over the course of the story. It helps that I had read Lane Clark's debut and loved it and so I wasn't surprised that I enjoyed their contribution to the collection.
After that though the collection definitely started to go a little downhill for me. It's really that those two were so nearly a five star that I'm willing to round up to a three and not leave it at a two.
There was a story about a historian I believe and the owner of the bookshop she worked at. All I really remember at this point was the basement they found themselves trapped in during the alarm and the uncomfortable Cold War era Soviet/CIA agent sexual roleplay they engaged it... Definitely didn't need that in my life.
The story of the jingle writer trapped her California basemene with the white man there to redo her cabinets was a new low. I hated everything about it. It read like really bad fanfiction and was almost all smut with no romance to be found and wasn't at all what I thought I would be getting out of a collection like this.
The last story of former academic rivals reuniting at an alumni event that is then sidetracked by the falling space debris alarm was fun. It also teetered into being too much of just smut for me, but ultimately did a better job of making me believe I was reading about real people and flushed out the characters a little more than exposing their desire to bone.
As a whole it was a fine time. I think that some of the ones I didn't like as much might have been more successful if they hadn't been short stories. I'm not sure how much experience any of the contributors have in that particular medium. I'm not even sure if they needed to be full novels, but even a novella length might have saved them. I do think there is a little something for everyone in this, unless you prefer your romance to be closed door in which case you'd be better off skipping altogether.
March 25, 2023
4.5⭐️Even if the Sky is Falling is a collection of six interconnected love stories by six talented authors. I LOVED this concept, which felt very much like the Valentines Day/ New Years Eve movies (if you’ve watched). There is a wide range of romance tropes, laugh out loud humor and a diverse cast of characters. I will say the spice level is HIGH, so if you are not into steamy books, this may not be for you. Below is a short snippet of what to expect in each of the 6 stories.
1. All The Stars by Taj McCoy
A second chance romance between two NASA employees.
2. Keep Calm and Carry On by Farah Heron
Former childhood friends reunite at a downtown marketplace when they realize they are selling the same Pakistani food and are competitors.
3. My Lucky Stars by Lane Clark
An opposites attract sapphic love story following two law school students who take shelter at the library.
4. Bunker Buddies by Cherish Reid
After a college professor has been pining over the owner of her local bookstore for months, the two end up taking cover in a bunker, and she soon realizes the attraction has mutual all along.
5. Interlude by Sarah Smith
Two strangers in forced proximity find themselves instantly attracted to the other.
6. Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better by Denise Williams
College rivals are brought back together for an awards ceremony and have the chance to live their fantasies.
Thank you HTP for the ARC! Pub date: 5/30/23
1. All The Stars by Taj McCoy
A second chance romance between two NASA employees.
2. Keep Calm and Carry On by Farah Heron
Former childhood friends reunite at a downtown marketplace when they realize they are selling the same Pakistani food and are competitors.
3. My Lucky Stars by Lane Clark
An opposites attract sapphic love story following two law school students who take shelter at the library.
4. Bunker Buddies by Cherish Reid
After a college professor has been pining over the owner of her local bookstore for months, the two end up taking cover in a bunker, and she soon realizes the attraction has mutual all along.
5. Interlude by Sarah Smith
Two strangers in forced proximity find themselves instantly attracted to the other.
6. Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better by Denise Williams
College rivals are brought back together for an awards ceremony and have the chance to live their fantasies.
Thank you HTP for the ARC! Pub date: 5/30/23
August 31, 2023
Book 39 of 2023 - ✅ ! I stumbled upon the orbit of Even If the Sky is Falling after looking for something to fulfill the Outer Space prompt for The Ripped Bodice Bingo (this is the last day to qualify for prizes)!
I tend to enjoy books of short stories by various authors because I like being exposed to so many different folks’ work I’d like to read, in a short amount of time. It also makes me even more excited to continue to read books by said authors.
Even If the Sky is Falling follows 6 stories that take place in one day. Farah Heron, Charish Reid, Taj McCoy, Denise Williams, Sarah Echavarre & Lane Clarke all write wonderfully fun and spicy stories that take place during the time an international warning siren accidentally goes off, which begs the question…what would YOU do if the sky was falling and it was the end of the world?
This book was reminiscent of the YA book Blackout, though EITSIF is absolutely NOT YA - this is a spicy book and gets a 4/5 🌶️ rating as EVERY SINGLE STORY in this book has steam, so if you prefer closed-door romance, this is not the book for you. 4/5 ⭐️ for the book overall - I can’t wait to dive into more books by these authors!
I tend to enjoy books of short stories by various authors because I like being exposed to so many different folks’ work I’d like to read, in a short amount of time. It also makes me even more excited to continue to read books by said authors.
Even If the Sky is Falling follows 6 stories that take place in one day. Farah Heron, Charish Reid, Taj McCoy, Denise Williams, Sarah Echavarre & Lane Clarke all write wonderfully fun and spicy stories that take place during the time an international warning siren accidentally goes off, which begs the question…what would YOU do if the sky was falling and it was the end of the world?
This book was reminiscent of the YA book Blackout, though EITSIF is absolutely NOT YA - this is a spicy book and gets a 4/5 🌶️ rating as EVERY SINGLE STORY in this book has steam, so if you prefer closed-door romance, this is not the book for you. 4/5 ⭐️ for the book overall - I can’t wait to dive into more books by these authors!
June 1, 2023
Some of these stories aren't necessarily my favorite, but I am definitely looking forward to checking out more works from the authors featured in this anthology!
January 3, 2024
I'm only two stories into this book of steamy romance short stories by different authors (each focusing on a different couple dealing with the same faulty nationwide alert that makes everyone think the world is about to end), but I have to say right now: OMG the Farah Heron story was so good and so much fun! I'm going to be reading all of her novels very soon. (And I really enjoyed the first story, by Taj McCoy, too, even though if I were the heroine I would have wanted and expected a TON more groveling from the hero before forgiving him!)
Now I'm diving back in for more. :)
***
And I'm back now that I've finished!
Honestly, it's always so hard to give a single star rating for any anthology of short stories. My absolute top favorite stories, which I LOVED, were the ones by Charish Reed and Farah Heron. (Nerdy sweethearts FTW! Both of those stories just filled me with delight.) But I really did enjoy reading every one of the stories along the way, and it was a really fun anthology, both in concept and in execution. Definitely recommended!
Now I'm diving back in for more. :)
***
And I'm back now that I've finished!
Honestly, it's always so hard to give a single star rating for any anthology of short stories. My absolute top favorite stories, which I LOVED, were the ones by Charish Reed and Farah Heron. (Nerdy sweethearts FTW! Both of those stories just filled me with delight.) But I really did enjoy reading every one of the stories along the way, and it was a really fun anthology, both in concept and in execution. Definitely recommended!
June 16, 2023
This multi-author story gives you the best of all our favourite authors in one book. All the romances steam from a significant event in which everyone believes the world will end via a meteor shower for some time.
Now I don't say the characters interlock - the event is the same for each person, but there is no relationship between each story. They are separate other than the event.
That is significant to me because although I enjoyed most of the stories, I was looking for a link between each other than the main event, which I did not find.
However, each story was different and beautiful in its own right. And let me not forget sexy - the sex scene was out of this world for each story I loved - you could also see each author in the stories and how they played out, which was fantastic.
All in all a great collection from our favs
Now I don't say the characters interlock - the event is the same for each person, but there is no relationship between each story. They are separate other than the event.
That is significant to me because although I enjoyed most of the stories, I was looking for a link between each other than the main event, which I did not find.
However, each story was different and beautiful in its own right. And let me not forget sexy - the sex scene was out of this world for each story I loved - you could also see each author in the stories and how they played out, which was fantastic.
All in all a great collection from our favs
November 28, 2023
This was fun and full of spice! With any short story collection, it's a little difficult to rate this overall because of course, I really enjoyed some of these and others fell a little short for me. My favorites were Keep Calm and Curry On and Bunker Buddies. As someone who reads a lot of slow burn, I could see some of the others (like the last rivals to lovers story) working even better for me if I had an entire book for it and more build up.
But overall, this was just a good time and I had a lot of fun with it. If you're the type of person who reads a lot of spicy novellas, I think you'll love these stories.
But overall, this was just a good time and I had a lot of fun with it. If you're the type of person who reads a lot of spicy novellas, I think you'll love these stories.
April 24, 2023
Idk why I thought this was YA bc boy is it steamy🤣
a bunch of “let’s hook up, it’s the end of the world” short stories by various romance authors.
My fave was “Keep Calm and Curry on” by Farah Heron. I liked the idea of a bunch of “disaster movie” romances, but it was hard to get invested with the stories being so quick. (And quick to get into the 🔥🤪)
I enjoyed getting introduced to some new authors!
Thanks for the gifted early copy!
a bunch of “let’s hook up, it’s the end of the world” short stories by various romance authors.
My fave was “Keep Calm and Curry on” by Farah Heron. I liked the idea of a bunch of “disaster movie” romances, but it was hard to get invested with the stories being so quick. (And quick to get into the 🔥🤪)
I enjoyed getting introduced to some new authors!
Thanks for the gifted early copy!
August 8, 2023
A history teacher a book store owner role played agents from the Spanish-American war during spicy time and I am throughly scarred…
You know there is something seriously wrong with a book when foreplay consists of the MMC saying "we’re helping the Russians develop a bomb and our intended target is Kansas City" and "We'd just destroy Cuba".
Just no.
You know there is something seriously wrong with a book when foreplay consists of the MMC saying "we’re helping the Russians develop a bomb and our intended target is Kansas City" and "We'd just destroy Cuba".
Just no.
June 19, 2023
I like all of these authors, but I only liked half of these stories. It feels weird to call out the ones I liked and didn't. It's a quick, no stress read.
I will say, my favourite was Williams' academic rivals second chance.
I will say, my favourite was Williams' academic rivals second chance.
January 4, 2025
Meh. There was nothing wrong with any of these romance short stories, but nothing particularly memorable about any of them, either.
August 20, 2023
Six quick stories about what happens between six different couples when the siren goes off unexpectedly, warning them that the "sky is falling" (possible space debris) making them all have to shelter in place.
Six forced proximity romances with a lot of spice. Most of the couples had some history so things finally heated up when they were forced to spend time together.
Except for the cabinet contractor and that story was my least favorite.
Overall just okay
Six forced proximity romances with a lot of spice. Most of the couples had some history so things finally heated up when they were forced to spend time together.
Except for the cabinet contractor and that story was my least favorite.
Overall just okay
April 10, 2024
Sadly I DNF. Loved the concept but something was missing, the stories just didn’t hold my interest. 😩Beautiful cover.💙
January 19, 2024
1 singular incident causes 5 couples to be trapped in a doomsday situation. This is a collection of short stories(6)that shows us what happens in the 12 hour window of time when they think the world as they know it is coming to an end.
I just didn’t think this was my cup of tea, I didn’t know this was a collection of short stories and was a little disappointed, but continued as I’ve never ventured this way in a book before. I listened to the audiobook and there are different narrators for each story, and I think one had 2. Some were great, some were not. Each story follows the same pattern because they are all in the same situation, and sexual tensions take over and consumes the story. Some of the characters had personalities that seemed out of character during those times to me. Maybe I needed more background to get to know them better? I don’t know if it would have made a difference, I just didn’t care what happened to any of them to be honest.
I just didn’t think this was my cup of tea, I didn’t know this was a collection of short stories and was a little disappointed, but continued as I’ve never ventured this way in a book before. I listened to the audiobook and there are different narrators for each story, and I think one had 2. Some were great, some were not. Each story follows the same pattern because they are all in the same situation, and sexual tensions take over and consumes the story. Some of the characters had personalities that seemed out of character during those times to me. Maybe I needed more background to get to know them better? I don’t know if it would have made a difference, I just didn’t care what happened to any of them to be honest.
June 11, 2024
Reviewed for AudioGals.
Narrated by Adenrele Ojo, Soneela Nankani, Karen Murray, Marissa Hampton, Donnabella Mortel, Joy Beharie & Teddy Hamilton
Even if the Sky is Falling is an anthology of stories by BIPOC authors which all have the same basic premise: an alarm blares alerting everyone that some space junk (or worse) is imminently going to crash into the earth and everyone should take shelter. Only the people in the first story know that it’s a false alarm and there’s no risk. Each story takes the forced proximity trope and the setup and takes it somewhere different. I love this idea; it’s illustrative of how romance itself is so diverse – just because the ending is the same doesn’t mean the stories are. Here the premise is the same but the stories are all very different.
Some of the stories are Black romance, others feature at least one character of colour, most are MF, one is FF. It’s difficult to talk about each story in detail here but I’ll at least mention each one briefly.
Taj McCoy’s All the Stars, narrated by Adenrele Ojo, kicks things off and sets up the world. NASA employees are putting the finishing touches on a nationwide emergency alert system for space debris, part of a wider worldwide effort. An accident happens and the alarm goes off. This story was the weakest of the anthology for me; the incompetence of the character who messes up (neither of the love interests fortunately) was astounding; I didn’t get how, in a team of four, the FMC and the MMC had so much downtime; especially as the FMC was the Team Leader. When the crap hit the fan why was she able to go for a nap rather than pitch in to help? This novella also featured a second chance trope and I found the reason for the break up unconvincing – I’m not sure the MMC deserved to be given that second chance. The narration was very good though.
Keep Calm and Curry On by Farah Heron, narrated by Soneela Nankani, was in my top two novellas from Even if the Sky is Falling. Set in a large undercover market, the protagonists, both of Pakistani heritage and the children of immigrants and former best friends each have a food truck. Their dads are no longer friends but can Tariq convince Maya that their generation doesn’t have to be at odds? Can Maya’s Masala Girls food truck coexist beside Tariq’s Curry Junction? Do they need to be in competition? There is also a hot guy in a Henley with the sleeves pushed up and a (the same) hot guy reading a romance novel! (I believe it’s a Tessa Dare book but it’s never named). There’s also a cat. I haven’t listened to Soneela Nankani before but her narration was excellent. She had great characterisation and bought into the somewhat meta nature of the story, adding a touch of humour to those beloved tropes so it never edged into too much.
My Lucky Stars by Lane Clark, narrated by Karen Murray is the only queer romance in the anthology. The only two Black girls in their law school class do not get along. Jones is prickly and aggressive, Diana is not. Enemies to lovers is something of a tricky trope for me at the best of times; I don’t like it when characters are mean to each other. Here, Jones was pretty mean to Diana and I didn’t really like her which made it difficult for me to root for them as a couple. I figure that people who don’t struggle with E2L will like this one a lot better than me. The narration was good though. Karen Murray is also a new-to-me narrator but I’d happily listen to her again.
Bunker Buddies by Charish Reid, narrated by Marissa Hampton was my other favourite of the anthology – my first story from this author. A bookshop owner with a bunker underneath (inherited from his prepper grandad) has been crushing on a customer for months. A university professor who keeps coming to the bookshop to order obscure books just to have an excuse to see said hot bookseller happens to be the only customer in the shop when the siren sounds. All alone together in the bunker while the world may or may not be ending. All that unresolved sexual tension has to go somewhere, right? The only thing that let this one down was the speed of the narration. Ms. Hampton’s pacing was too fast for me. Otherwise, her characterisation and voice differentiation were very good.
Interlude narrated by Sarah Smith, narrated by Donnabella Mortel – a composer and jingle writer spends the maybe-end of the world in her basement with her cat and the hot contractor who, when the alarm went off, was at her house to give her a quote on replacing her kitchen cabinets. I found this difficult to get into because precious word count was wasted on things which didn’t really matter. There was too much time spent on things which didn’t really impact the story and it made my eyes glaze over a bit. On the other hand, the narration was great. Ms. Mortel is another narrator I’ll be looking for again. The story didn’t work super well for me but she kept me entertained nonetheless.
Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better by Denise Williams, narrated by Joy Beharie & Teddy Hamilton was another that suffered (for me at least) as a result of the enemies to lovers start of the story. I’m not sure I really bought why she didn’t like him in school when he didn’t do anything beyond being related to the founder of the university. Trapped in an empty college together, the pair eventually work their way through the misunderstandings that plagued their school years (I’m also not a fan of the Big Mis) and find their way to a HFN – and likely HEA. The narration by both performers was very good, with solid tone, pacing and emotion. It’s difficult to say new things about Teddy Hamilton – AudioGals readers know he’s a favourite here!
Like many anthologies, Even if the Sky is Falling was a bit of a mixed bag but I loved the premise and I did find some new-to-me authors and narrators to follow which was an even bigger plus.
Narrated by Adenrele Ojo, Soneela Nankani, Karen Murray, Marissa Hampton, Donnabella Mortel, Joy Beharie & Teddy Hamilton
Even if the Sky is Falling is an anthology of stories by BIPOC authors which all have the same basic premise: an alarm blares alerting everyone that some space junk (or worse) is imminently going to crash into the earth and everyone should take shelter. Only the people in the first story know that it’s a false alarm and there’s no risk. Each story takes the forced proximity trope and the setup and takes it somewhere different. I love this idea; it’s illustrative of how romance itself is so diverse – just because the ending is the same doesn’t mean the stories are. Here the premise is the same but the stories are all very different.
Some of the stories are Black romance, others feature at least one character of colour, most are MF, one is FF. It’s difficult to talk about each story in detail here but I’ll at least mention each one briefly.
Taj McCoy’s All the Stars, narrated by Adenrele Ojo, kicks things off and sets up the world. NASA employees are putting the finishing touches on a nationwide emergency alert system for space debris, part of a wider worldwide effort. An accident happens and the alarm goes off. This story was the weakest of the anthology for me; the incompetence of the character who messes up (neither of the love interests fortunately) was astounding; I didn’t get how, in a team of four, the FMC and the MMC had so much downtime; especially as the FMC was the Team Leader. When the crap hit the fan why was she able to go for a nap rather than pitch in to help? This novella also featured a second chance trope and I found the reason for the break up unconvincing – I’m not sure the MMC deserved to be given that second chance. The narration was very good though.
Keep Calm and Curry On by Farah Heron, narrated by Soneela Nankani, was in my top two novellas from Even if the Sky is Falling. Set in a large undercover market, the protagonists, both of Pakistani heritage and the children of immigrants and former best friends each have a food truck. Their dads are no longer friends but can Tariq convince Maya that their generation doesn’t have to be at odds? Can Maya’s Masala Girls food truck coexist beside Tariq’s Curry Junction? Do they need to be in competition? There is also a hot guy in a Henley with the sleeves pushed up and a (the same) hot guy reading a romance novel! (I believe it’s a Tessa Dare book but it’s never named). There’s also a cat. I haven’t listened to Soneela Nankani before but her narration was excellent. She had great characterisation and bought into the somewhat meta nature of the story, adding a touch of humour to those beloved tropes so it never edged into too much.
My Lucky Stars by Lane Clark, narrated by Karen Murray is the only queer romance in the anthology. The only two Black girls in their law school class do not get along. Jones is prickly and aggressive, Diana is not. Enemies to lovers is something of a tricky trope for me at the best of times; I don’t like it when characters are mean to each other. Here, Jones was pretty mean to Diana and I didn’t really like her which made it difficult for me to root for them as a couple. I figure that people who don’t struggle with E2L will like this one a lot better than me. The narration was good though. Karen Murray is also a new-to-me narrator but I’d happily listen to her again.
Bunker Buddies by Charish Reid, narrated by Marissa Hampton was my other favourite of the anthology – my first story from this author. A bookshop owner with a bunker underneath (inherited from his prepper grandad) has been crushing on a customer for months. A university professor who keeps coming to the bookshop to order obscure books just to have an excuse to see said hot bookseller happens to be the only customer in the shop when the siren sounds. All alone together in the bunker while the world may or may not be ending. All that unresolved sexual tension has to go somewhere, right? The only thing that let this one down was the speed of the narration. Ms. Hampton’s pacing was too fast for me. Otherwise, her characterisation and voice differentiation were very good.
Interlude narrated by Sarah Smith, narrated by Donnabella Mortel – a composer and jingle writer spends the maybe-end of the world in her basement with her cat and the hot contractor who, when the alarm went off, was at her house to give her a quote on replacing her kitchen cabinets. I found this difficult to get into because precious word count was wasted on things which didn’t really matter. There was too much time spent on things which didn’t really impact the story and it made my eyes glaze over a bit. On the other hand, the narration was great. Ms. Mortel is another narrator I’ll be looking for again. The story didn’t work super well for me but she kept me entertained nonetheless.
Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better by Denise Williams, narrated by Joy Beharie & Teddy Hamilton was another that suffered (for me at least) as a result of the enemies to lovers start of the story. I’m not sure I really bought why she didn’t like him in school when he didn’t do anything beyond being related to the founder of the university. Trapped in an empty college together, the pair eventually work their way through the misunderstandings that plagued their school years (I’m also not a fan of the Big Mis) and find their way to a HFN – and likely HEA. The narration by both performers was very good, with solid tone, pacing and emotion. It’s difficult to say new things about Teddy Hamilton – AudioGals readers know he’s a favourite here!
Like many anthologies, Even if the Sky is Falling was a bit of a mixed bag but I loved the premise and I did find some new-to-me authors and narrators to follow which was an even bigger plus.
June 20, 2023
genius authors. fell in love with their writing with every little story. and when I thought 'oh they can't top this', the other story came along. I was already familiar and so in love with Lane Clarke, Taj McCoy, Sarah Smith, Farah Heron, and Denise Williams's books but it was my first time reading Charish Reid, and now I know it definitely won't be my last!!! MY AUTO-BUY AUTHORS ALWAYS ALL THE TIMEEEE!!!
June 4, 2023
I was approved for an ARC of this one.
The disaster inspired idea drew me into this anthology and I have to say I enjoyed most of the stories. I liked that it came full circle, ending off with the characters who Halley and Griff who kicked it off at the start.
It was intriguing to see how all the characters reacted differently in the crisis situation but the one constant was they couldn't resist falling into each other and the sexy times ;) and friends these stories got the steamy scenes!
There was one story that sort of kept taking me out of what was happening as there was just head hopping and no clear indication when POVs changed so I kept getting confused as to who was speaking. Not sure if this was changed in the final edition but yeah that made it difficult to focus on what was going on.
But overall this was a great concept and most authors executed it well i think!
The disaster inspired idea drew me into this anthology and I have to say I enjoyed most of the stories. I liked that it came full circle, ending off with the characters who Halley and Griff who kicked it off at the start.
It was intriguing to see how all the characters reacted differently in the crisis situation but the one constant was they couldn't resist falling into each other and the sexy times ;) and friends these stories got the steamy scenes!
There was one story that sort of kept taking me out of what was happening as there was just head hopping and no clear indication when POVs changed so I kept getting confused as to who was speaking. Not sure if this was changed in the final edition but yeah that made it difficult to focus on what was going on.
But overall this was a great concept and most authors executed it well i think!
May 21, 2025
Dnf 81% 🎧
I know I was far in but I stopped listening for a couple of days and lost hope. I didn’t enjoy a single one of the four I read and frankly didn’t care if I enjoyed one if the last two better.
I know I was far in but I stopped listening for a couple of days and lost hope. I didn’t enjoy a single one of the four I read and frankly didn’t care if I enjoyed one if the last two better.
January 17, 2024
This was both cute and spicy
Read
February 21, 2024dnf at 50% :( I love a short story but I think these were constrained by the theme of the book. it was repetitive and there was no time for their relationships to naturally progress and make me care. I was very bored and rather than rate it low I would rather not rate it at all. I hope someone finds this in my free little library and loves it!
March 11, 2024
A fun series of novelas about how different characters experienced the same emergency event all across the country. So much diversity is present in these characters, I loved it! If you’re a forced proximity lover, this book is for you. :)
February 20, 2025
The world is ending - let's have sex. 🔥🔥🔥
September 11, 2025
This was a pleasant surprise! I enjoyed each and every story!
July 21, 2023
I rated & reviewed every story individually, so I’ll include those now. But to sum up: this didn’t go well.
All The Stars - Taj McCoy
1/5 - I hated this. Honestly it’s making me not really want to continue reading the rest of the stories but since they are different characters and authors, I will keep reading. I didn’t understand why the characters were referenced by first name sometimes and last name others. Even in the same thought, one character was thought of using his last name and then seconds later by last name. Also, the characters said each others names way more often than people would in a normal conversation. I don’t like second chance romances in the first place, but I don’t mind them if the first breakup is for understandable reasons. This was in no way an understandable reason, and the FMC forgives him basically in seconds and then there was just multiple pages of them having sex. None of this worked for me, or made me want to read anything else by this author.
Keep Calm and Curry On - Farah Heron
2.5/5 - This was fine. After disliking the last story, it took me a couple days to want to keep reading but I saw multiple reviews saying that this was a lot of people’s favourite stories, so I was hopeful. It was cute. I didn’t really love either of the main characters, and the story was just okay. I wouldn’t rush to read more by this author, but also wouldn��t be opposed to it.
My Lucky Stars - Lane Clarke
1.5/5 - I appreciated the diabetes rep, although I’m not sure if I love how it was done at times. I also appreciate that this is the only LGBTQ+ story in this book. Unfortunately, the story and the characters kind of bored me and the analogies used during the sex scene made it seem awkward. I don’t think I’d seek out more books by this author.
Bunker Buddies - Charis Reid
1/5 - …what the sweet fuck was this? No thank you. While I gave this the same rating as the first story, I would say this was better than that one, it was just kinda bizarre. Another story where I have no desire to look into more by this author.
Interlude - Sarah Smith
3/5 - I went into this trying to be open minded, because I’ve previously DNF’ed a book by this author before, because I didn’t care for the writing. Unfortunately I still think her writing just isn’t for me. I liked the story and the characters, it was more so just the writing that still doesn’t work for me, which I know is totally a personal preference. Although I did think the sex scenes happened very suddenly. I liked the characters and could understand how and why things developed between them, it just seemed to go from 0 to 60 in a few seconds. So I didn’t love that, but the sex scenes really were hot. No rush to read more by this author tho.
Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better - Denise Willams
4/5 - This is the only author in this anthology that I’ve previously finished a book by (coincidentally, also an anthology of 3 novellas) so I was familiar with her writing. This was another story where sex seemed to basically come out of no where. I know these are short stories but it’s just not my preference, I guess. But the sex really was hot and the banter between the two characters made this my favourite story in this book. I really liked both of the main characters, and I’m glad the book ended with this story (not counting the epilogue). I would look into reading more by this author.
Epilogue - Taj McCoy
No rating - I didn’t enjoy the story this is part of, and I don’t think this could have changed my rating had it been included with that story. I wish this was part of it and not how the book actually ended. It just seems kinda random to be at the end, but I guess chronologically it would be.
All The Stars - Taj McCoy
1/5 - I hated this. Honestly it’s making me not really want to continue reading the rest of the stories but since they are different characters and authors, I will keep reading. I didn’t understand why the characters were referenced by first name sometimes and last name others. Even in the same thought, one character was thought of using his last name and then seconds later by last name. Also, the characters said each others names way more often than people would in a normal conversation. I don’t like second chance romances in the first place, but I don’t mind them if the first breakup is for understandable reasons. This was in no way an understandable reason, and the FMC forgives him basically in seconds and then there was just multiple pages of them having sex. None of this worked for me, or made me want to read anything else by this author.
Keep Calm and Curry On - Farah Heron
2.5/5 - This was fine. After disliking the last story, it took me a couple days to want to keep reading but I saw multiple reviews saying that this was a lot of people’s favourite stories, so I was hopeful. It was cute. I didn’t really love either of the main characters, and the story was just okay. I wouldn’t rush to read more by this author, but also wouldn��t be opposed to it.
My Lucky Stars - Lane Clarke
1.5/5 - I appreciated the diabetes rep, although I’m not sure if I love how it was done at times. I also appreciate that this is the only LGBTQ+ story in this book. Unfortunately, the story and the characters kind of bored me and the analogies used during the sex scene made it seem awkward. I don’t think I’d seek out more books by this author.
Bunker Buddies - Charis Reid
1/5 - …what the sweet fuck was this? No thank you. While I gave this the same rating as the first story, I would say this was better than that one, it was just kinda bizarre. Another story where I have no desire to look into more by this author.
Interlude - Sarah Smith
3/5 - I went into this trying to be open minded, because I’ve previously DNF’ed a book by this author before, because I didn’t care for the writing. Unfortunately I still think her writing just isn’t for me. I liked the story and the characters, it was more so just the writing that still doesn’t work for me, which I know is totally a personal preference. Although I did think the sex scenes happened very suddenly. I liked the characters and could understand how and why things developed between them, it just seemed to go from 0 to 60 in a few seconds. So I didn’t love that, but the sex scenes really were hot. No rush to read more by this author tho.
Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better - Denise Willams
4/5 - This is the only author in this anthology that I’ve previously finished a book by (coincidentally, also an anthology of 3 novellas) so I was familiar with her writing. This was another story where sex seemed to basically come out of no where. I know these are short stories but it’s just not my preference, I guess. But the sex really was hot and the banter between the two characters made this my favourite story in this book. I really liked both of the main characters, and I’m glad the book ended with this story (not counting the epilogue). I would look into reading more by this author.
Epilogue - Taj McCoy
No rating - I didn’t enjoy the story this is part of, and I don’t think this could have changed my rating had it been included with that story. I wish this was part of it and not how the book actually ended. It just seems kinda random to be at the end, but I guess chronologically it would be.
June 30, 2023
I will be reviewing this book story by story. There may be some spoilers here and there. So I just wanted to give you a heads up before you start reading what I have to say. I will aim to put a spoiler warning ahead of time incase you want to read this book.
All The Stars By Taj McCoy
(SPOILERS) I wasn't a huge fan of this story as much. It took me until the two lovers were reconnecting to get into the story. I wasn't really invested. Also a bit of a spoiler so don't read unless you don't care. The guy broke up with the chick and then never said why but he still loved her?!?!?!?! I'm sorry what. Then them being in this situation he tells her that he never stopped loving her. I don't know what that is. I don't know, it seemed dumb. I think they were broke up for a year. Made no sense to me.
Keep Calm and Curry On By Farah Heron
I'm enjoying this one more. I think because food is involved. Also love that the main character's crush also owns a food truck and they're trying to compete for sales. Ah so this is the first story in the book that I would love a full
book out of. These two characters have history with each other. I would love to read their before and current situation. Plus learn more about their fathers complicated pasts. I would enjoy that a lot. This ended up being my favorite story.
My Lucky Stars By Lane Clarke
An enemies to somewhat lovers story. I wasn't super invested in this one either. This one is with two girls. I like that it's different. I just wasn't a fan of their banter. I didn't really sense sparks. Maybe it's just me though.
Bunker Buddies By Charis Reid
Ehhh I honestly pushed through this one. I read most of the story up until the bunker. I kind of skimmed the rest. I didn't write much for this one. One of the characters owns a bookstore so that is cool at least.
Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better By Denise Willams
I ended up skipping this story. I tried reading it again and I just couldn't do it. I do feel bad because I read majority of the stories here. I did skim through another one as well because I wanted to be finished. I do plan to check out books by this author and the other authors as well. I was just at that moment where I wanted to be done. :(
Epilogue By Taj McCoy
I'm pretty sure this was in the book earlier?? I read this part and I'm pretty sure it was at the end of Taj's story. I could be wrong though. It was a nice ending to her story.
*Thank you to the publisher for giving me a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.*
Overall I didn't end up enjoying this book as much. I think a lot of these were just too short. Also, some of them just couldn't hold my interest. My favorite hands down is Keep Calm and Curry On By Farah Heron. If Farah Heron ends up turning it into a full book, I will be there. I do also have to say this book is very spicy. Each story had spice to it. I wasn't excepting that. I really thought this was a young adult book. It shocked me the first story I read. I do have to say I was starting to get bored because every story was repetitive. The author would build up the story and then they'd get a world is ending text. They either go hide or stay in there space cause it's safe. They hook up. After a bit they get the text it's okay to come out. I just wanted a little more variety. I think I need to try reading a full on book from these authors to see if I like their writing. I'm sad about this one.
All The Stars By Taj McCoy
(SPOILERS) I wasn't a huge fan of this story as much. It took me until the two lovers were reconnecting to get into the story. I wasn't really invested. Also a bit of a spoiler so don't read unless you don't care. The guy broke up with the chick and then never said why but he still loved her?!?!?!?! I'm sorry what. Then them being in this situation he tells her that he never stopped loving her. I don't know what that is. I don't know, it seemed dumb. I think they were broke up for a year. Made no sense to me.
Keep Calm and Curry On By Farah Heron
I'm enjoying this one more. I think because food is involved. Also love that the main character's crush also owns a food truck and they're trying to compete for sales. Ah so this is the first story in the book that I would love a full
book out of. These two characters have history with each other. I would love to read their before and current situation. Plus learn more about their fathers complicated pasts. I would enjoy that a lot. This ended up being my favorite story.
My Lucky Stars By Lane Clarke
An enemies to somewhat lovers story. I wasn't super invested in this one either. This one is with two girls. I like that it's different. I just wasn't a fan of their banter. I didn't really sense sparks. Maybe it's just me though.
Bunker Buddies By Charis Reid
Ehhh I honestly pushed through this one. I read most of the story up until the bunker. I kind of skimmed the rest. I didn't write much for this one. One of the characters owns a bookstore so that is cool at least.
Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better By Denise Willams
I ended up skipping this story. I tried reading it again and I just couldn't do it. I do feel bad because I read majority of the stories here. I did skim through another one as well because I wanted to be finished. I do plan to check out books by this author and the other authors as well. I was just at that moment where I wanted to be done. :(
Epilogue By Taj McCoy
I'm pretty sure this was in the book earlier?? I read this part and I'm pretty sure it was at the end of Taj's story. I could be wrong though. It was a nice ending to her story.
*Thank you to the publisher for giving me a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion.*
Overall I didn't end up enjoying this book as much. I think a lot of these were just too short. Also, some of them just couldn't hold my interest. My favorite hands down is Keep Calm and Curry On By Farah Heron. If Farah Heron ends up turning it into a full book, I will be there. I do also have to say this book is very spicy. Each story had spice to it. I wasn't excepting that. I really thought this was a young adult book. It shocked me the first story I read. I do have to say I was starting to get bored because every story was repetitive. The author would build up the story and then they'd get a world is ending text. They either go hide or stay in there space cause it's safe. They hook up. After a bit they get the text it's okay to come out. I just wanted a little more variety. I think I need to try reading a full on book from these authors to see if I like their writing. I'm sad about this one.
April 9, 2023
[arc review]
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Even If the Sky is Falling releases May 30, 2023
This was such an unexpected delight!
A collection of 6 interconnected short stories from 6 different authors, all with diverse characters and steamy scenes.
The overarching theme was solid, while still allowing each story to have their own unique and distinct voice.
This focuses on cities in the US, but globally, countries have implemented an alert system to warn civilians of any impending meteor strikes. In each story, we see a couple hunker down for 12 hours as the first alert and unbeknownst accidental test run is set off in the US.
My favourites were “All the Stars”, “My Lucky Stars”, and “Bunker Buddies”.
All the Stars by Taj McCoy
Halley and Griffin are NASA specialists, and exes assigned to the same mission. Their team is the one working on the installation of the ADGWS (aerial debris global warning system), however, another member accidentally spills his beer which short circuits the entire system and sets off the nationwide alert by accident. The system reboot takes 12 hours total, and of course, Halley and Griffin use that time to reconnect ;)
Keep Calm and Curry On by Farah Heron
Maya and Tarek are childhood friends. She has a small business that sells South Asian sauces and spices, and he has a food truck specializing in Pakistani food. They are rival competitors in the market where they are located.
The writing style and family drama wasn’t my favourite here, but them bonding over food was cool.
My Lucky Stars by Lane Clarke
Jones and Dianna are both law students, stuck in a bunker together in the library. Dianna ends up spilling her drink on herself and thus has to remove her skirt and tights.
This had enemies to lovers, black rep, diabetes rep, and wlw!
Bunker Buddies by Charish Reid
Shea is a professor, Nick is a bookstore owner. This is told in dual pov. The tension between them has been brewing for 6 months, and the shelter order gave them the perfect opportunity to take things to the next level. Readers into role-playing will love this!
Interlude by Sarah Smith
Jocelyn is a Filipino songwriter, Caleb is the kitchen cabinet contractor, and they end up meeting and getting to know each other all on this day as the alert goes off just as he arrives at her place.
This one was really rushed and felt a bit forced just because they were the only ones who didn’t previously know each other, but it was still enjoyable!
Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better by Denise Williams
Piper and Hale were academic rivals and are at their old college for an alumni awards ceremony. This one was the weakest of the short stories for me because they kept exploring the college instead of actually hunkering down like they were supposed to, and the chemistry just didn’t feel believable. I also don’t understand how the rest of the building was deserted even though there was an event happening??
ALSO Hale says: “The girl who drove me crazy in college, who filled my fantasies in med school, and who was always in the back of my mind during my marriage […]” yeah, that’s a red flag.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Even If the Sky is Falling releases May 30, 2023
This was such an unexpected delight!
A collection of 6 interconnected short stories from 6 different authors, all with diverse characters and steamy scenes.
The overarching theme was solid, while still allowing each story to have their own unique and distinct voice.
This focuses on cities in the US, but globally, countries have implemented an alert system to warn civilians of any impending meteor strikes. In each story, we see a couple hunker down for 12 hours as the first alert and unbeknownst accidental test run is set off in the US.
My favourites were “All the Stars”, “My Lucky Stars”, and “Bunker Buddies”.
All the Stars by Taj McCoy
Halley and Griffin are NASA specialists, and exes assigned to the same mission. Their team is the one working on the installation of the ADGWS (aerial debris global warning system), however, another member accidentally spills his beer which short circuits the entire system and sets off the nationwide alert by accident. The system reboot takes 12 hours total, and of course, Halley and Griffin use that time to reconnect ;)
Keep Calm and Curry On by Farah Heron
Maya and Tarek are childhood friends. She has a small business that sells South Asian sauces and spices, and he has a food truck specializing in Pakistani food. They are rival competitors in the market where they are located.
The writing style and family drama wasn’t my favourite here, but them bonding over food was cool.
My Lucky Stars by Lane Clarke
Jones and Dianna are both law students, stuck in a bunker together in the library. Dianna ends up spilling her drink on herself and thus has to remove her skirt and tights.
This had enemies to lovers, black rep, diabetes rep, and wlw!
Bunker Buddies by Charish Reid
Shea is a professor, Nick is a bookstore owner. This is told in dual pov. The tension between them has been brewing for 6 months, and the shelter order gave them the perfect opportunity to take things to the next level. Readers into role-playing will love this!
Interlude by Sarah Smith
Jocelyn is a Filipino songwriter, Caleb is the kitchen cabinet contractor, and they end up meeting and getting to know each other all on this day as the alert goes off just as he arrives at her place.
This one was really rushed and felt a bit forced just because they were the only ones who didn’t previously know each other, but it was still enjoyable!
Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better by Denise Williams
Piper and Hale were academic rivals and are at their old college for an alumni awards ceremony. This one was the weakest of the short stories for me because they kept exploring the college instead of actually hunkering down like they were supposed to, and the chemistry just didn’t feel believable. I also don’t understand how the rest of the building was deserted even though there was an event happening??
ALSO Hale says: “The girl who drove me crazy in college, who filled my fantasies in med school, and who was always in the back of my mind during my marriage […]” yeah, that’s a red flag.
July 16, 2023
So, I knew it was adult, and I knew it had steam.
But honestly, that's just scenarios for p*rn videos.
Only "Keep calm and Curry on" had a real plot and feelings. The others are basically really just horny people with the "oh the world's ending, quick, let's f*ck!!" *eyeroll* Especially the "Interlude" one, it wasn't even an nemesis or old crush or whatever, it was just the contractor hired to do the kitchen (yes, p*rn plot).
I wasted my time, honestly. If you just want short stories with people (I mean, mostly m/f couples, there's only one f/f story) jumping each others, you're good. If you want actual romance, go away...
But honestly, that's just scenarios for p*rn videos.
Only "Keep calm and Curry on" had a real plot and feelings. The others are basically really just horny people with the "oh the world's ending, quick, let's f*ck!!" *eyeroll* Especially the "Interlude" one, it wasn't even an nemesis or old crush or whatever, it was just the contractor hired to do the kitchen (yes, p*rn plot).
I wasted my time, honestly. If you just want short stories with people (I mean, mostly m/f couples, there's only one f/f story) jumping each others, you're good. If you want actual romance, go away...
September 10, 2023
This one is so much fun! I love that we get so many short stories from so many incredible BIPOC authors that I love and even one that I'd never read from! I wasn't sure what to expect going in but very quickly you realize that all of the stories are surrounding this possible life changing event. I love seeing all of the different representation, and truly loved every short story. Even though these stories were short they did not skimp on the steam, laughs or emotion.
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