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Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort #3
Falling Close
One accidental kiss wasn’t supposed to change so much.
Dean Myers never meant to blow up his entire world in one night. But when he crashes Raven’s art show and pretends to be her husband, all to avoid the advances of a new employee at his family’s mountain resort, he’s halfway there.
Then he accidentally kisses her—his good friend Raven.
And now he can’t think about anything else.
Raven Lake has always been Dean’s partner in crime at work, and she likes it that way. But what if she liked that kiss even more? After their marriage lie spreads, pretending to be his wife out in public is hard enough. Moving into his cabin—being that close to him all the time—might ruin her completely.
But a phone call changes everything. When Raven gets the opportunity of a lifetime, she might have to choose between her childhood dream and the guy she suddenly can’t live without.
Falling Close is a closed-door sweet romantic comedy with plenty of chemistry but no explicit content. This friends to lovers story can be read as a standalone, or as part of the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort series.
Dean Myers never meant to blow up his entire world in one night. But when he crashes Raven’s art show and pretends to be her husband, all to avoid the advances of a new employee at his family’s mountain resort, he’s halfway there.
Then he accidentally kisses her—his good friend Raven.
And now he can’t think about anything else.
Raven Lake has always been Dean’s partner in crime at work, and she likes it that way. But what if she liked that kiss even more? After their marriage lie spreads, pretending to be his wife out in public is hard enough. Moving into his cabin—being that close to him all the time—might ruin her completely.
But a phone call changes everything. When Raven gets the opportunity of a lifetime, she might have to choose between her childhood dream and the guy she suddenly can’t live without.
Falling Close is a closed-door sweet romantic comedy with plenty of chemistry but no explicit content. This friends to lovers story can be read as a standalone, or as part of the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort series.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 13, 2023
55 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
About the author
Sydney Muse
7 books43 followersSydney Muse writes sweet stories full of lovable characters and swoon-worthy kisses. She grew up in a big city surrounded by the ocean, but now she lives in a small town surrounded by mountains. When she's not writing, you can find her (accidentally) killing plants in her garden, wrangling her kids, watching cooking shows with her husband, and trying to entertain two rambunctious cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 16, 2023
Raven and Dean. Dean and Raven. The perfect, hilarious co-working couple.
This is my first Sydney Muse book and boy, oh, boy--it definitely won't be my last! I loved this friends-to-more RomCom. Muse has a way of framing imagery that captivates my mind, heart, and soul. The words punched straight to my funny bone and the quirky characters were divine.
Raven is all dark roses, spikes, and spookiness, yet she's got a soft center and loves bats. "'Yeah, but she's the good kind of prickly--like a hedgehog.' It was the perfect way to describe her. Cute and sweet and mildly dangerous all rolled into one--his ideal girl. That was Raven Lake."
Dean is a handsome, rugged, bear whispering, outdoorsy prankster with a sharp mind, quick wit, and a heart of gold. And his charm? Off the charts. "Secret nerds with a closet full of jigsaw puzzles shouldn't be allowed to kiss like this. It was inhumane. Especially when it ended."
I loved the pranks, the lie that landed them in an off-the-road cabin, a one sleeping bag situation, and the shadowy attraction that kept them going in their ruse. I loved how they weren't perfect, yet supported each other so well. I loved the glorious swoon, hilarious banter and flirtations, glass blowing, and grandma's ring. Grizz the cat is the perfect companion for this unlikely duo.
I'll be back soon, Ponderosa Falls!
Content: mild romance (kissing, swoon); mild moment of peril
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
This is my first Sydney Muse book and boy, oh, boy--it definitely won't be my last! I loved this friends-to-more RomCom. Muse has a way of framing imagery that captivates my mind, heart, and soul. The words punched straight to my funny bone and the quirky characters were divine.
Raven is all dark roses, spikes, and spookiness, yet she's got a soft center and loves bats. "'Yeah, but she's the good kind of prickly--like a hedgehog.' It was the perfect way to describe her. Cute and sweet and mildly dangerous all rolled into one--his ideal girl. That was Raven Lake."
Dean is a handsome, rugged, bear whispering, outdoorsy prankster with a sharp mind, quick wit, and a heart of gold. And his charm? Off the charts. "Secret nerds with a closet full of jigsaw puzzles shouldn't be allowed to kiss like this. It was inhumane. Especially when it ended."
I loved the pranks, the lie that landed them in an off-the-road cabin, a one sleeping bag situation, and the shadowy attraction that kept them going in their ruse. I loved how they weren't perfect, yet supported each other so well. I loved the glorious swoon, hilarious banter and flirtations, glass blowing, and grandma's ring. Grizz the cat is the perfect companion for this unlikely duo.
I'll be back soon, Ponderosa Falls!
Content: mild romance (kissing, swoon); mild moment of peril
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
October 16, 2023
4.5 stars for this super sweet read. Falling Close is the third book and the series (plus a novella), and even though I haven’t read those, was a delight as a stand-alone. But I will be going back and reading more about the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort!
This book started off right away with Dean declaring he was fake dating Raven only to have that quickly escalate as Raven was wearing her grandmother’s wedding rings for good luck and to ward off creepers. I had no idea where it would go from there but it ended up being cuteness overload with a cast of characters to love.
I loved watching these work friends become fake married, and then, getting to know each other beyond a work relationship and realizing they’re totally in love. I also really liked that both MC’s had a chance to explore a dream only to figure out where they really belong.
So many little details I loved in this book:
Nicknames
Myers Family prank wars
“Divide and Conquer”
Grizz
Jigsaw puzzles
Glassworks society
Snow Day exhibit
Joyce and her game to get proof
Old B Movies
Hot nerd
Confession time - text edition
Halloween jammies
Kissing in the woods
The vase and fridge photo
“…….do you thinking you’re coming down with something?”
Oh, she was coming down with something alright. Feelings.
This book started off right away with Dean declaring he was fake dating Raven only to have that quickly escalate as Raven was wearing her grandmother’s wedding rings for good luck and to ward off creepers. I had no idea where it would go from there but it ended up being cuteness overload with a cast of characters to love.
I loved watching these work friends become fake married, and then, getting to know each other beyond a work relationship and realizing they’re totally in love. I also really liked that both MC’s had a chance to explore a dream only to figure out where they really belong.
So many little details I loved in this book:
Nicknames
Myers Family prank wars
“Divide and Conquer”
Grizz
Jigsaw puzzles
Glassworks society
Snow Day exhibit
Joyce and her game to get proof
Old B Movies
Hot nerd
Confession time - text edition
Halloween jammies
Kissing in the woods
The vase and fridge photo
“…….do you thinking you’re coming down with something?”
Oh, she was coming down with something alright. Feelings.
October 12, 2023
Falling Close is the third book in the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort series. I had not personally read the previous books in the series and found that it read just fine as a standalone as well.
Dean and Raven hooked me with their easy friendship right from the beginning... Their shared 'bear talk' had me grinning ear to ear and really set the tone for the relationship right away. But things get much more complicated when they end up in an accidental fake marriage... and share an accidental kiss! I loved seeing their banter and how their relationship progressed throughout the story. They were so fun together and kept me smiling throughout the story. As much as I enjoyed the friendship, I enjoyed their falling even more. Dean's confessional texts? Absolutely LOVED them! So sweet.
As much as I adored these two, I have to say Dean's crazy family definitely made this story! I loved his mom's meddling and the prank wars with his cousin... there was just so much fun surrounding this family! It has me looking forward to going back and reading the previous books in the series all that much more!
Falling Close is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Dean and Raven hooked me with their easy friendship right from the beginning... Their shared 'bear talk' had me grinning ear to ear and really set the tone for the relationship right away. But things get much more complicated when they end up in an accidental fake marriage... and share an accidental kiss! I loved seeing their banter and how their relationship progressed throughout the story. They were so fun together and kept me smiling throughout the story. As much as I enjoyed the friendship, I enjoyed their falling even more. Dean's confessional texts? Absolutely LOVED them! So sweet.
As much as I adored these two, I have to say Dean's crazy family definitely made this story! I loved his mom's meddling and the prank wars with his cousin... there was just so much fun surrounding this family! It has me looking forward to going back and reading the previous books in the series all that much more!
Falling Close is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**I received an ARC for consideration. All opinions are my own.
October 12, 2023
I LOVED Sydney Muse’s “Falling Close”!!!
I couldn’t put it down, and stayed up half the night to finish it! The quick, witty banter drew me in and kept me entertained throughout, leaving a smile on my face for most of the book!! How often does that happen?! So add the sweet romance, and you have my most favorite romantic comedy I’ve read in a long time!! I think it’s Sydney Muse’s best book yet!! I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a story that makes you smile and warms your heart!!
I received this book for free as an ARC for my honest opinion. You may can tell I thought it was great and thoroughly enjoyed it!! I’m looking forward to reading more by this talented author!
I couldn’t put it down, and stayed up half the night to finish it! The quick, witty banter drew me in and kept me entertained throughout, leaving a smile on my face for most of the book!! How often does that happen?! So add the sweet romance, and you have my most favorite romantic comedy I’ve read in a long time!! I think it’s Sydney Muse’s best book yet!! I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a story that makes you smile and warms your heart!!
I received this book for free as an ARC for my honest opinion. You may can tell I thought it was great and thoroughly enjoyed it!! I’m looking forward to reading more by this talented author!
October 28, 2024
Good book!
I enjoyed reading this sweet story and spending time with the characters. It was a good book, and I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
I enjoyed reading this sweet story and spending time with the characters. It was a good book, and I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
October 18, 2023
Absolutely adored this book! I’ve been waiting in anticipation for it and it did not disappoint. Raven and Dean had wonderful chemistry and banter previously in the series and it just got better in this book. While taking in Raven’s art show, uninvited, Dean pretended he and Raven were in a relationship to deter a former resort guest who was clearly interested in him. “‘I have made the turducken of errors, but I swear I’ll make it up to you.’” When it turned out that she was staying around longer than expected, the fake relationship snowballed and they doubled down. “‘And this is what he gets for telling lies. If my son wants to be married, let him be married. Actions have consequences.’” Their friendship both strained and strengthened as it faced what could be…and maybe what they had both been feeling but failing to recognize for a long time. There was so much fun in this book. The banter was so good. I already loved Raven and Dean from before, but it was great getting to know them even more. Dean was such a sweet, cinnamon roll, fun male main character, and Raven, well…“‘Yeah, but she’s the good kind of prickly - like a hedgehog.’ It was the perfect way to describe her. Cute and sweet and mildly dangerous all rolled into one…” I enjoyed seeing learning more about Raven’s art and both of their pasts, and their interests. There were some beautiful swoony moments, lots of protective, affectionate, and sweet feelings. It was also fun to see more of the characters from earlier in the series. I can’t say enough about how much I love this series and author. She is one of my absolute favourites now. This story introduced the first main character for a new series and I’m here for it. I highly recommend this book and series. While this book three (or four if you count the novella) in this series, it can be read as a standalone. However I would definitely suggest reading the whole series just for the enjoyment of it. This is a closed door story with some innuendo and no harsh language.
October 15, 2023
Falling Close is an absolute gem of a friends-to-lovers rom-com that had me hooked from the very first page🌲🐻 Don’t sweat it if you haven’t read the previous books in the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort series—this one stands strong as a standalone, and trust me, you won’t miss a beat.
Right from the beginning, Dean unexpectedly crashes Raven’s art show and then busts out some top-tier improv, playing the role of her fake hubby to rescue himself from an overly enthusiastic admirer. What makes it even more hilarious is that Raven is armed with her grandma’s wedding rings as a lucky charm and creeper repellent, leading them to spin an even more elaborate web of lies about their fake marriage.
Dean and Raven start as work pals, but as their story unfolds, their chemistry gets cranked up to eleven, and you can’t help but grin from ear to ear as their friendship deepens, revealing there’s something more than just office camaraderie. The accidental fake marriage and unexpected kiss makes this book sweet, endearing, and often hilarious. The chemistry between main characters is electric. Oh, and let’s not forget the laugh-out-loud moments brought to you by Dean’s mom’s meddling and the epic prank wars with his cousin.
Sydney serves up a closed-door romance with kisses that leave plenty to your imagination, making it a fantastic pick for readers seeking a heartfelt, feel-good love story💚 Can’t wait for more reads from this talented author🥰 Thanks a million, Sydney, for this joyride of a read!📖😍
Right from the beginning, Dean unexpectedly crashes Raven’s art show and then busts out some top-tier improv, playing the role of her fake hubby to rescue himself from an overly enthusiastic admirer. What makes it even more hilarious is that Raven is armed with her grandma’s wedding rings as a lucky charm and creeper repellent, leading them to spin an even more elaborate web of lies about their fake marriage.
Dean and Raven start as work pals, but as their story unfolds, their chemistry gets cranked up to eleven, and you can’t help but grin from ear to ear as their friendship deepens, revealing there’s something more than just office camaraderie. The accidental fake marriage and unexpected kiss makes this book sweet, endearing, and often hilarious. The chemistry between main characters is electric. Oh, and let’s not forget the laugh-out-loud moments brought to you by Dean’s mom’s meddling and the epic prank wars with his cousin.
Sydney serves up a closed-door romance with kisses that leave plenty to your imagination, making it a fantastic pick for readers seeking a heartfelt, feel-good love story💚 Can’t wait for more reads from this talented author🥰 Thanks a million, Sydney, for this joyride of a read!📖😍
October 19, 2023
Raven Lake is one of the most mysterious people working at the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort. She loves Halloween, bats, and all things spooky, but there's a lot about her that most people don't know, and she plans on keeping it that way. That is until her co-worker and friend Dean Myers, whose family runs the resort, unexpectedly shows up at one of her art shows. Dean couldn't help but let his curiosity get the best of him when he arrives at Raven's art show, but when he unexpectedly runs into a former resort guest who is incredibly into him, all he can think to do is tell her that he's with Raven. The small problem? Unbeknownst to Dean, Raven wears her late grandmother's wedding ring to events to ward off men. Before they both realize it, they're fake married for the night. But that night turns into a month when the woman gets hired to cover a job at the resort. Dean and Raven are friends. They are just friends who have certainly not thought about each other romantically. Plus, it's only pretending for one month, so what's the worst that can happen? They'll fall in love?
* I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Falling Close has been a book that I have been waiting for since I picked up the series. Dean's charisma and Raven's sarcasm are a match made in heaven. From their little "flirty" challenges to elbowing each other in attempts not to laugh, I felt like I was on the journey to happily ever after along with them. This was a great book; I can't wait to read what comes next.
* I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Falling Close has been a book that I have been waiting for since I picked up the series. Dean's charisma and Raven's sarcasm are a match made in heaven. From their little "flirty" challenges to elbowing each other in attempts not to laugh, I felt like I was on the journey to happily ever after along with them. This was a great book; I can't wait to read what comes next.
October 23, 2023
Sometimes the opposite is the perfect match.
—
Dean and Raven could not be more different. But that seems to be just the thing that attracts them to each other.
—
Dean is the grumpy oldest son of a third generation owned resort in the Rocky Mountains, after leaving his family business behind he has found his way back to become a “private contractor park ranger”, warn guests about black bear sightings, and subtly spend as much time with a certain staff member whose own life is nothing like his own.
Raven came to the resort looking for her former professor who has expanded and been her mentor in the glassworks arts. She didn’t expect to stay in Colorado, but after meeting Dean, how could she leave? With the freedom to create, Raven has flourished into the a stunning glass artist.
Learning about Raven’s art, Dean goes to surprise her at her art show, but when a perky young woman latches on to him as a potential suitor; Dean spies Raven and tells a lie that spirals them both into a whirlwind of a fake relationship that just may expose both of their hidden secrets. Ready or not.
—
This story was delicious. The witty banter popped off the page, the chemistry of the couples radiating instantly. I’m am such a fan of forced proximity and fake relationship tropes, and this one was handled deftly, spanning the space between slow burn and intense energy.
I giggled, sighed, cried even…and found myself wishing there was more when it was over.
A fabulous read, perfect for any time of year…but the added nicknames and elements made it so easy to be a fall/Halloween read perfect for October.
—
Dean and Raven could not be more different. But that seems to be just the thing that attracts them to each other.
—
Dean is the grumpy oldest son of a third generation owned resort in the Rocky Mountains, after leaving his family business behind he has found his way back to become a “private contractor park ranger”, warn guests about black bear sightings, and subtly spend as much time with a certain staff member whose own life is nothing like his own.
Raven came to the resort looking for her former professor who has expanded and been her mentor in the glassworks arts. She didn’t expect to stay in Colorado, but after meeting Dean, how could she leave? With the freedom to create, Raven has flourished into the a stunning glass artist.
Learning about Raven’s art, Dean goes to surprise her at her art show, but when a perky young woman latches on to him as a potential suitor; Dean spies Raven and tells a lie that spirals them both into a whirlwind of a fake relationship that just may expose both of their hidden secrets. Ready or not.
—
This story was delicious. The witty banter popped off the page, the chemistry of the couples radiating instantly. I’m am such a fan of forced proximity and fake relationship tropes, and this one was handled deftly, spanning the space between slow burn and intense energy.
I giggled, sighed, cried even…and found myself wishing there was more when it was over.
A fabulous read, perfect for any time of year…but the added nicknames and elements made it so easy to be a fall/Halloween read perfect for October.
October 23, 2023
Falling Close 🐈⬛🖤
➖rating: 5/5 ⭐️’s
➖spice level: closed door 🚪
“divide and conquer?” 🤜🤛 “divide and conquer”
Raven is my spooky kindred spirit and I’ve been looking forward to her and Dean’s book since they first popped up in this series (spoiler: it did /not/ disappoint!!)
a few things you’ll find in “Falling Close”:
➖spooky artist girlie 🕸🦇 x wilderness guy who’s v passionate about his bear talks 🐻
➖friends ➞ lovers 💌
➖fake relationship + practice kissing + casual affection 😙
➖cute text confessions📱
➖meddling friends & family 🤭
Given Raven + Dean’s shenanigans in the prev books, I can’t say that I was the least bit surprised (or disappointed 🤪) that these two found themselves in an accidental fake relationship. But when that simple night of faking turns into a much bigger ruse than either of them had anticipated, both their lies and their feelings start to get tangled up together 🤞
“Falling Close” is full of soft joy and witty banter and I’m pretty sure only Dean + Raven could have me grinning ear to ear about a bear encounter 🫶🏻 (also will be thinking about Dean putting his beanie on Raven’s head and then stopping to adjust it a few minutes later for the foreseeable future🫡 )
Thank you to Sydney for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest (albeit quite late 🥴) review! I had the best time in Ponderosa Falls <3
➖rating: 5/5 ⭐️’s
➖spice level: closed door 🚪
“divide and conquer?” 🤜🤛 “divide and conquer”
Raven is my spooky kindred spirit and I’ve been looking forward to her and Dean’s book since they first popped up in this series (spoiler: it did /not/ disappoint!!)
a few things you’ll find in “Falling Close”:
➖spooky artist girlie 🕸🦇 x wilderness guy who’s v passionate about his bear talks 🐻
➖friends ➞ lovers 💌
➖fake relationship + practice kissing + casual affection 😙
➖cute text confessions📱
➖meddling friends & family 🤭
Given Raven + Dean’s shenanigans in the prev books, I can’t say that I was the least bit surprised (or disappointed 🤪) that these two found themselves in an accidental fake relationship. But when that simple night of faking turns into a much bigger ruse than either of them had anticipated, both their lies and their feelings start to get tangled up together 🤞
“Falling Close” is full of soft joy and witty banter and I’m pretty sure only Dean + Raven could have me grinning ear to ear about a bear encounter 🫶🏻 (also will be thinking about Dean putting his beanie on Raven’s head and then stopping to adjust it a few minutes later for the foreseeable future🫡 )
Thank you to Sydney for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest (albeit quite late 🥴) review! I had the best time in Ponderosa Falls <3
October 21, 2023
Falling Close is the third and final book in the Ponderosa Wilderness Resort romcom series. It can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the entire series, in order.
I loved Raven & Deans dynamic and witty banter. They had so much fun together - and I think that’s a new favorite sun trope, couples that have fun together!
Raven & Dean have been staples in this series, we’ve all known they would end up together and reading their story was super satisfying.
Oh and just wait until you get to Dean’s late night text confessions…you will swoon hard! 😍😍
The best part of this friends to lovers story? Minimal pining. The story begins with two friends who are simply just friends, but after a series of strange - and hilarious - events, the end up pretending to be married and temporarily living together.
As the book progresses they begin to realize deeper feelings, and in my opinion this is friends to lovers done right!
Each book in this series gets better and better. Laugh out loud funny, great characters, witty banter. I highly, highly recommend this entire series!
📖 Thank you to the author for the advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I loved Raven & Deans dynamic and witty banter. They had so much fun together - and I think that’s a new favorite sun trope, couples that have fun together!
Raven & Dean have been staples in this series, we’ve all known they would end up together and reading their story was super satisfying.
Oh and just wait until you get to Dean’s late night text confessions…you will swoon hard! 😍😍
The best part of this friends to lovers story? Minimal pining. The story begins with two friends who are simply just friends, but after a series of strange - and hilarious - events, the end up pretending to be married and temporarily living together.
As the book progresses they begin to realize deeper feelings, and in my opinion this is friends to lovers done right!
Each book in this series gets better and better. Laugh out loud funny, great characters, witty banter. I highly, highly recommend this entire series!
📖 Thank you to the author for the advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
November 17, 2023
“Secret nerds with a closet full of jigsaw puzzles shouldn't be allowed to kiss like this. It was inhumane. Especially when it ended.”
I can’t give this book enough heart eyes!!!! I’ve been patiently waiting for Dean and Raven’s story and Sydney didn’t hold back! I love a good friends to lovers, especially when they’re done just right! This story had the perfect ratio of teasing, flirty banter and romance!
Dean was the sweetest cinnamon roll, and Raven was the icing! They were opposites but also perfect for each other in every way. Dean was smart, caring and so dreamy! Raven was her own person, which I loved about her. Their friendship was so unique and special. While they both had secret crushes on the other, they were also hesitant to make any moves on their feelings, afraid it would hurt their friendship.
Enter the accidental fake marriage, courtesy of Dean! 😂When they are forced to stay together in Dean’s cabin to prove their little ruse, the sparks have no choice but to fly! And boy, do they ignite! I enjoyed every scene and was never short on laughter! I love reading a good, clean story with all the heat, but no spice! And Sydney does that so well!
I enjoyed seeing all the other characters from the series! Especially Astrid and Jeremy! If you’re looking for a good “fall vibes” story to read before winter sets in, then definitely give this book a try! It’s the third book in the series but can also be read as a stand alone.
Bear talk
Mr. Cowboy Energy
All the nicknames
Snow Day
The accidental kiss
All the Dean versions
Fake marriage
Grizz the cat
“I get hot under the covers”
One tent + Sleeping Bag
Jigsaw puzzles
Private practice kisses
Grandma Grace
The dance
The cat toy
“We’ll save the best for last.”
Dean’s gift
The texts
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I can’t give this book enough heart eyes!!!! I’ve been patiently waiting for Dean and Raven’s story and Sydney didn’t hold back! I love a good friends to lovers, especially when they’re done just right! This story had the perfect ratio of teasing, flirty banter and romance!
Dean was the sweetest cinnamon roll, and Raven was the icing! They were opposites but also perfect for each other in every way. Dean was smart, caring and so dreamy! Raven was her own person, which I loved about her. Their friendship was so unique and special. While they both had secret crushes on the other, they were also hesitant to make any moves on their feelings, afraid it would hurt their friendship.
Enter the accidental fake marriage, courtesy of Dean! 😂When they are forced to stay together in Dean’s cabin to prove their little ruse, the sparks have no choice but to fly! And boy, do they ignite! I enjoyed every scene and was never short on laughter! I love reading a good, clean story with all the heat, but no spice! And Sydney does that so well!
I enjoyed seeing all the other characters from the series! Especially Astrid and Jeremy! If you’re looking for a good “fall vibes” story to read before winter sets in, then definitely give this book a try! It’s the third book in the series but can also be read as a stand alone.
Bear talk
Mr. Cowboy Energy
All the nicknames
Snow Day
The accidental kiss
All the Dean versions
Fake marriage
Grizz the cat
“I get hot under the covers”
One tent + Sleeping Bag
Jigsaw puzzles
Private practice kisses
Grandma Grace
The dance
The cat toy
“We’ll save the best for last.”
Dean’s gift
The texts
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 21, 2023
This book had me laughing out loud in the first chapter! Always a great way to start a book.
Raven is an employee at a wilderness resort. She is also a talented artist.
Dean’s family owns the wilderness resort. He is also an employee there and spends many shifts with Raven, but he has no idea about her secret glassblowing hobby.
One thing after another leads to the two moving in together and becoming a fake married couple.
The chemistry between the two was fantastic! There were a lot of parts to their story and I would have been ok if the book had been condensed some, but their story is a great one. I especially loved the parts where they showcased their hidden feelings.
While this can be a stand alone book I do wish I had read the previous in the series first. Sometimes you have a better connection to the characters if you recognize them from previous books. I still connected with Dean and Raven and still rooted for them in all aspects, but if you have the chance I would say read the other two first.
Raven is an employee at a wilderness resort. She is also a talented artist.
Dean’s family owns the wilderness resort. He is also an employee there and spends many shifts with Raven, but he has no idea about her secret glassblowing hobby.
One thing after another leads to the two moving in together and becoming a fake married couple.
The chemistry between the two was fantastic! There were a lot of parts to their story and I would have been ok if the book had been condensed some, but their story is a great one. I especially loved the parts where they showcased their hidden feelings.
While this can be a stand alone book I do wish I had read the previous in the series first. Sometimes you have a better connection to the characters if you recognize them from previous books. I still connected with Dean and Raven and still rooted for them in all aspects, but if you have the chance I would say read the other two first.
October 10, 2024
From the beginning to the end, this one was a fun ride! I loved the set of events that lead to Raven and Dean being fake married. The author had such a unique take on a fake marriage and fake relationship. I really enjoyed that!
Raven and Dean got into some really funny and awkward situations that I feel tend to happen with fake relationships and I got a kick out of all of it! They had such a supportive relationship with each other even though they were still getting to know each other. I loved how the relationship progressed from friends to more because of the trust and support they had with each other. I loved Raven determined and feisty personality but she was also loyal and kind. Dean was such a sweetheart and so devoted to Raven even when they were just friends.
Also that epilogue 😍😍 Gotta love the fun side characters like Dean's mom and grandma and Raven's glassworks group! This is also where we meet Charlie who is the MMC in Muse's next book.
Raven and Dean got into some really funny and awkward situations that I feel tend to happen with fake relationships and I got a kick out of all of it! They had such a supportive relationship with each other even though they were still getting to know each other. I loved how the relationship progressed from friends to more because of the trust and support they had with each other. I loved Raven determined and feisty personality but she was also loyal and kind. Dean was such a sweetheart and so devoted to Raven even when they were just friends.
Also that epilogue 😍😍 Gotta love the fun side characters like Dean's mom and grandma and Raven's glassworks group! This is also where we meet Charlie who is the MMC in Muse's next book.
October 29, 2023
Dean. Raven. And Grizz of course.
The Bear-Whisperer (Cat-Whisperer) and his glass-blowing co-worker pull off the prime fake-relationship of the year - or do they?
The comical yet charming relationship between Dean and Raven is written to perfection. Their chemistry is immaculate and their banter kept me giggling until the very end. While this is written as a closed-door, I appreciated the tender, yet alluring moments throughout.
I had sworn off the entire rom-com genre after multiple attempts at reading from several different authors.
But apparently I was simply not reading Sydney Muse and her distinct, witty and brilliant writing style. While it is a part of her three book series, I read this as a stand-alone effortlessly.
If you love warm and witty characters, friends to lovers tropes and a closed door experience, you will thoroughly enjoy Falling Close.
The Bear-Whisperer (Cat-Whisperer) and his glass-blowing co-worker pull off the prime fake-relationship of the year - or do they?
The comical yet charming relationship between Dean and Raven is written to perfection. Their chemistry is immaculate and their banter kept me giggling until the very end. While this is written as a closed-door, I appreciated the tender, yet alluring moments throughout.
I had sworn off the entire rom-com genre after multiple attempts at reading from several different authors.
But apparently I was simply not reading Sydney Muse and her distinct, witty and brilliant writing style. While it is a part of her three book series, I read this as a stand-alone effortlessly.
If you love warm and witty characters, friends to lovers tropes and a closed door experience, you will thoroughly enjoy Falling Close.
October 27, 2023
This is the first book I have read by Sydney Muse and I couldn't be happier about it. This book is part of a series but you do not have to read the other books in order to enjoy this one. Raven and Dean are so much fun. They were friends from work but didn't really hang out outside of work. Until one day Dean decided to go to Ravens art show. That's when the fun really begins. There are so many pranks in this book that are just so funny. I enjoyed reading this book a lot. You get all the sizzling kisses without anything else. There are plenty of laughs a little bit of everything is in this book.
November 19, 2023
Another visit to Pondarosa Falls this time we meet Raven and Dean. Playing a fake couple always comes with issues some good some bad, the issue here is how quickly it escalates into Dean pretending to be her husband. They work well together and bounce off each other, but when fake turns into something real how to you say to the other you want this permanently. I loved the characters in this book not just the two main characters but Dean's family especially his mother who loves to meddle. If your looking for an easy to read hea with quite a few laughs inbetween then this is it. I received this as an ARC copy and this is my own opinion and review of the book
October 14, 2023
Lighthearted and sweet
This sweet friends to lovers book is such a fun read! This is the perfect light read with sweet romance, limited drama and beautiful grand gestures!
This is the type of story that’s easy to get engrossed in, the characters are easy to love and the relationships are sweet and pure. This is one of those books that makes you realize that just because the path you’re on isn’t the one you intended, doesn’t mean the outcome will be sent less fulfilling.
This book contains sweet gestures, found family, quirky characters and a wonderful HEA.
This sweet friends to lovers book is such a fun read! This is the perfect light read with sweet romance, limited drama and beautiful grand gestures!
This is the type of story that’s easy to get engrossed in, the characters are easy to love and the relationships are sweet and pure. This is one of those books that makes you realize that just because the path you’re on isn’t the one you intended, doesn’t mean the outcome will be sent less fulfilling.
This book contains sweet gestures, found family, quirky characters and a wonderful HEA.
October 14, 2023
Talk about a beautiful story! This clean romance is a realistic story that will have you wanting more. Raven is a closed off person after she had been burned in the past but when Dean accidentally falls into a fake marriage with her, her walls begin to crumble. I feel like this is set apart from a lot of romances because in my opinion this would be something that would easily happen in real life and a story I wish would keep going on.
A little bit of a spoiler but…..
Dean and his airport fiascos cracked me up. As someone who travels a ton it was so relatable.
A little bit of a spoiler but…..
Dean and his airport fiascos cracked me up. As someone who travels a ton it was so relatable.
October 20, 2023
Y’all.
You don’t even know.
This book was SO ADORABLE. I basically devoured it. Raven and Dean are so cute and perfect and relatable. If you need a cute romcom, you have to get this NOW.
This book reads like a normal human brain thinks. The cadence and syntax are so fun; the author shows you who the characters are without outright stating it.
Just get it.
TROPES:
- one bed
- fake dating
- reverse grumpy/sunshine
- cat daddy
- friends to lovers
- “it’s always been you”
- protective brothers
You don’t even know.
This book was SO ADORABLE. I basically devoured it. Raven and Dean are so cute and perfect and relatable. If you need a cute romcom, you have to get this NOW.
This book reads like a normal human brain thinks. The cadence and syntax are so fun; the author shows you who the characters are without outright stating it.
Just get it.
TROPES:
- one bed
- fake dating
- reverse grumpy/sunshine
- cat daddy
- friends to lovers
- “it’s always been you”
- protective brothers
December 25, 2023
Wow, just when I thought this series couldn't get any better, it did!
This book was funny and had so many swoony moments.
I loved how kind & thoughtful Dean was and how he had no idea how much he was in love with Raven until that first fateful kiss. And Raven? She was just as clueless until, like Dean, that kiss! And it wasn't even a purposeful, passionate kiss but a slight, accidental one.
All the side characters were delightful and the story flowed well and was realistic.
I received a free copy of this book courtesy Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was funny and had so many swoony moments.
I loved how kind & thoughtful Dean was and how he had no idea how much he was in love with Raven until that first fateful kiss. And Raven? She was just as clueless until, like Dean, that kiss! And it wasn't even a purposeful, passionate kiss but a slight, accidental one.
All the side characters were delightful and the story flowed well and was realistic.
I received a free copy of this book courtesy Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2024
My first book by Sydney Muse and I already knew before I finished that it won’t be my last by her!! She’s become my favourites!!
Raven and Dean’s friends to more story was full of chemistry and it was a sweet one. I loved both of the characters and the scenery Sydney introduces to us. I personally love mountains, so it was a special one. All the characters—I will go and read their stories too. I liked Charlie enough to be waiting his for his story!!
Anyway, absolutely enjoyed this story, and I will recommend it to anyone who’ll ask.
Raven and Dean’s friends to more story was full of chemistry and it was a sweet one. I loved both of the characters and the scenery Sydney introduces to us. I personally love mountains, so it was a special one. All the characters—I will go and read their stories too. I liked Charlie enough to be waiting his for his story!!
Anyway, absolutely enjoyed this story, and I will recommend it to anyone who’ll ask.
January 17, 2025
Plot: when an old resort guest tries to pursue Dean, he claims that he and Raven are married, but only for the last week or so. The only problem is that his brother’s actual wedding is coming up and doesn’t want to upstage him. On top of that, Raven’s art is finally gaining traction and she gets into the school of her dreams. What will happen between Raven and Dean, and where does that leave their feelings for each other?
What I liked: I liked that these two had a friendship before anything progressed. They knew things about one another that normally wouldn’t make sense if they weren’t friends first. I also like that there wasn’t a third act breakup of sorts. This book felt like a natural flow and actually had healthy relationships in all aspects.
What I didn’t like: I didn’t like how nervous they were to explore any feelings or at least talk about things they felt.
Swearing: no swearing
Physical intimacy level: closed door
Star rating: 4 stars
Trope: friends to lovers, small town romance, fake marriage
What I liked: I liked that these two had a friendship before anything progressed. They knew things about one another that normally wouldn’t make sense if they weren’t friends first. I also like that there wasn’t a third act breakup of sorts. This book felt like a natural flow and actually had healthy relationships in all aspects.
What I didn’t like: I didn’t like how nervous they were to explore any feelings or at least talk about things they felt.
Swearing: no swearing
Physical intimacy level: closed door
Star rating: 4 stars
Trope: friends to lovers, small town romance, fake marriage
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2023
I’ve loved all of Sydney’s books and was excited for Dean and Raven’s story! Dean is a loving, mountain man nerd and Raven is a somewhat prickly, bat loving glass artist - so the two don’t seem to fit together on paper. But their friendship is so fun, and as they fall in love, their friendship still shines through. Plenty of swoony kissing and emotional tugs at your heart too, with interesting banter and side characters. Definitely worth a read!
October 23, 2023
This was an adorable friends to lovers romance by Sydney Muse! Raven’s relationship with Dean was one of support, friendship, and fun pranks. Their ability to banter and also read each other’s minds/play along with each other, the gingerbread house detail, and Dean’s wilderness man aesthetic mixed with Raven’s “Halloween town” artsy personality all blended to make the perfect friends to lovers/fake dating/fake marriage romance. Thank you to the author for my ARC; all opinions are mine.
October 28, 2023
Oh my goodness, this book was such a sweet, friends to more, romantic comedy and was loaded with fun! So many sweet, adorable moments and the character interaction was EVERYTHING! Along with all the sweetness, it was also very interesting. I really didn't want it to end. I absolutely loved every page of this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2024
2.5 stars. This one took me longer than usual to get through because Dean and Raven didn’t have the best chemistry. The story just jumped right into their fake marriage trope and it needed a little more build up first, so I wasn’t very interested in their relationship. Plus I thought Dean told the lie for a weird reason in the first place. I enjoyed the wilderness resort setting. But overall, this one just didn’t work all that well for me.
October 13, 2023
I absolutely loved this and it’s my favorite of the series! From clueless friends, to fake marriage, to realizing feelings-this book was a joy to read 💛 (totally stayed up late to finish). I love how Dean accepted and loved Raven for who she was-and that her spookiness was his favorite part 🐈⬛ They were adorable together🥰 and her secret artistry was SO cool!
October 26, 2023
Sydney Muse has done it again! Dean and Raven are absolutely adorable. I love their banter. It is also great to have female character with a hobby that very unique. I have gone to a glass blowing class and I am happy to see this art form get it day in the sun!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2023
One accidental kiss wasn’t supposed to change so much.
A friends to lovers, fake relationship small-town romance. Dean and Raven were adorable together and such fun characters to get to know. There's no pinning rather a series of events that show each other in a new light.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A friends to lovers, fake relationship small-town romance. Dean and Raven were adorable together and such fun characters to get to know. There's no pinning rather a series of events that show each other in a new light.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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