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No Plans to Fall
Marissa will do a lot for a free cookie, even go on a blind date.
Her date Scott smelled like cinnamon rolls and made her laugh. But even cookies have limited power. When Scott asked about a second date, Marissa knew it's time to bolt.
Marissa’s only relief is she lives hours away and can pretend this evening never happened—until she goes to work Monday to find her job is under new management ... suit wearing, cinnamon smelling, Scott management.
Scott's future was carefully planned, and dating wasn't included. At least not until Marissa came into his life. Her sunny smile made him question everything he knew he wanted … but if she finds out he used her, even a cookie couldn’t solve that problem.
Can these two lost souls find love or will their plans get in the way?
Her date Scott smelled like cinnamon rolls and made her laugh. But even cookies have limited power. When Scott asked about a second date, Marissa knew it's time to bolt.
Marissa’s only relief is she lives hours away and can pretend this evening never happened—until she goes to work Monday to find her job is under new management ... suit wearing, cinnamon smelling, Scott management.
Scott's future was carefully planned, and dating wasn't included. At least not until Marissa came into his life. Her sunny smile made him question everything he knew he wanted … but if she finds out he used her, even a cookie couldn’t solve that problem.
Can these two lost souls find love or will their plans get in the way?
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2024
70 people are currently reading
442 people want to read
About the author
Kiri Patterson
4 books48 followersI grew up in small town Idaho and communicate through movie quotes and song lyrics.
I taught myself to read before Kindergarten and have loved reading ever since. Especially books with lots of kisses, sweet love stories, strong characters, and lots of witty banter—ingredients I want in all my stories.
I try to survive on chai tea, Dr. Pepper, and dark chocolate. Other guilty pleasures include marathons of the Great British Baking Show, BBC period dramas, Harry Potter anything, and French Fries. I get my steps in with Target aisles, getting lost in bookstores, and walking in the sunshine.
I live in Star, Idaho, with my hot husband, four rapidly growing children, a strong belief in happily ever afters, and pink laptop—a nod to my belief that everything is just a little better in pink.
I taught myself to read before Kindergarten and have loved reading ever since. Especially books with lots of kisses, sweet love stories, strong characters, and lots of witty banter—ingredients I want in all my stories.
I try to survive on chai tea, Dr. Pepper, and dark chocolate. Other guilty pleasures include marathons of the Great British Baking Show, BBC period dramas, Harry Potter anything, and French Fries. I get my steps in with Target aisles, getting lost in bookstores, and walking in the sunshine.
I live in Star, Idaho, with my hot husband, four rapidly growing children, a strong belief in happily ever afters, and pink laptop—a nod to my belief that everything is just a little better in pink.
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January 13, 2026
No Plans to Fall by Kiri Patterson Review
No Plans to Fall by Kiri Patterson (often misremembered as No Plans to Fail) is a tender, sweet small-town contemporary romance with cozy fall vibes and heartfelt character growth. The story centers on Marissa, a woman who has learned to live moment-to-moment after surviving a traumatic car accident that killed her parents and left her with lingering scars and emotional wounds, including infertility, which has made her hesitant to open her heart again. At a fall festival, Marissa ends up on a blind date with Scott, whose carefully mapped-out future leaves no room for romance, only to discover that he becomes her new boss when his family’s law firm merges with hers in the quiet town of Hillsdale. As the two work together, they grapple with their differences, her free-spirited spontaneity and his meticulous planning and begin to see in each other the promise of something neither of them had on their lists.
Early in the book, I was charmed by how warmly the author portrays small-town life, the crisp autumn setting, and the festival moments that feel like cinnamon and apple cider in book form, and I genuinely rooted for Marissa and Scott as they learned to trust not just each other but themselves. Marissa’s journey toward self-worth and healing is layered with sincere vulnerability and sprinkled with humor from her vibrant friends and hilarious grandmother, making her someone I couldn’t help but care about deeply. Scott’s evolution from rigid planner to someone willing to embrace uncertainty was equally moving, giving their slow-burn connection an emotional richness that felt honest rather than rushed.
The dual point-of-view narration allowed me to feel both of their inner fears and hopes, which made the moments of softness between them even sweeter. While some familiar rom-com beats weave through the narrative, the heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and renewal made me laugh, ache, and smile in equal measure. In the end, this book made me feel like I was sipping hot apple cider on a crisp autumn afternoon, wrapped in the warmth of characters who teach you that the best plans are sometimes the ones you never made.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Because the emotional depth, lovable characters, and cozy small-town charm made this a delightfully uplifting romance.
No Plans to Fall by Kiri Patterson (often misremembered as No Plans to Fail) is a tender, sweet small-town contemporary romance with cozy fall vibes and heartfelt character growth. The story centers on Marissa, a woman who has learned to live moment-to-moment after surviving a traumatic car accident that killed her parents and left her with lingering scars and emotional wounds, including infertility, which has made her hesitant to open her heart again. At a fall festival, Marissa ends up on a blind date with Scott, whose carefully mapped-out future leaves no room for romance, only to discover that he becomes her new boss when his family’s law firm merges with hers in the quiet town of Hillsdale. As the two work together, they grapple with their differences, her free-spirited spontaneity and his meticulous planning and begin to see in each other the promise of something neither of them had on their lists.
Early in the book, I was charmed by how warmly the author portrays small-town life, the crisp autumn setting, and the festival moments that feel like cinnamon and apple cider in book form, and I genuinely rooted for Marissa and Scott as they learned to trust not just each other but themselves. Marissa’s journey toward self-worth and healing is layered with sincere vulnerability and sprinkled with humor from her vibrant friends and hilarious grandmother, making her someone I couldn’t help but care about deeply. Scott’s evolution from rigid planner to someone willing to embrace uncertainty was equally moving, giving their slow-burn connection an emotional richness that felt honest rather than rushed.
The dual point-of-view narration allowed me to feel both of their inner fears and hopes, which made the moments of softness between them even sweeter. While some familiar rom-com beats weave through the narrative, the heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and renewal made me laugh, ache, and smile in equal measure. In the end, this book made me feel like I was sipping hot apple cider on a crisp autumn afternoon, wrapped in the warmth of characters who teach you that the best plans are sometimes the ones you never made.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Because the emotional depth, lovable characters, and cozy small-town charm made this a delightfully uplifting romance.
September 15, 2025
No Plans To Fall
((Seasons of Hillsdale Book 1)
by: Kiri Patterson
@authorkiripatterson
-I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
““Life has a funny way sometimes of making better plans for us than we make for ourselves.“
~Marissa will do a lot for a free cookie, even go on a blind date...
“I have no intention of getting between you and your happiness.”
-No Plans To Fall, is a light hearted rom with an extra layer of depth that is beautifully inspiring, and meaningful. The beautiful message of healing within emphasizes the importance of finding yourself, loving yourself, and realizing your worth. I thoroughly enjoyed
the way the hard and the good are balanced well with relatable characters, who I simply couldn’t help root for. I loved watching dear character’s resilience, willingness, and encouragement to give the other space to heal and bloom. This adorable story is worth the read!🙌🏻📚🩷🍁
“There is nothing about us that is easy…but it’s worth every hard thing to be near you.”
•Content: talk of an off-page car accident/death; grief, loss of loved ones, infertility, kisses only.
“No, autumn magic is real. You can feel the power of change even in the air. The crisp air, the leaves changing colors, all of nature feels like magic.”
#noplanstofall
“Love doesn’t leave. It grows, and it changes.”
#seasonsofhilldale
“Living life in a shell of existence is no way to live.”
#authorkiripatterson
“Life is a gift.”
#worththecuteread
“There is nothing about us that is easy.
I liked that he’d said us. But it’s worth every hard thing to be near you.”
#allaboutthebestreads
“I choose you, over and over again. I choose you and whatever life that comes with
it. Adoption, travel, pets, chaos, flying pumpkins... anything. You are my happiness.”
((Seasons of Hillsdale Book 1)
by: Kiri Patterson
@authorkiripatterson
-I give 4.5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
““Life has a funny way sometimes of making better plans for us than we make for ourselves.“
~Marissa will do a lot for a free cookie, even go on a blind date...
“I have no intention of getting between you and your happiness.”
-No Plans To Fall, is a light hearted rom with an extra layer of depth that is beautifully inspiring, and meaningful. The beautiful message of healing within emphasizes the importance of finding yourself, loving yourself, and realizing your worth. I thoroughly enjoyed
the way the hard and the good are balanced well with relatable characters, who I simply couldn’t help root for. I loved watching dear character’s resilience, willingness, and encouragement to give the other space to heal and bloom. This adorable story is worth the read!🙌🏻📚🩷🍁
“There is nothing about us that is easy…but it’s worth every hard thing to be near you.”
•Content: talk of an off-page car accident/death; grief, loss of loved ones, infertility, kisses only.
“No, autumn magic is real. You can feel the power of change even in the air. The crisp air, the leaves changing colors, all of nature feels like magic.”
#noplanstofall
“Love doesn’t leave. It grows, and it changes.”
#seasonsofhilldale
“Living life in a shell of existence is no way to live.”
#authorkiripatterson
“Life is a gift.”
#worththecuteread
“There is nothing about us that is easy.
I liked that he’d said us. But it’s worth every hard thing to be near you.”
#allaboutthebestreads
“I choose you, over and over again. I choose you and whatever life that comes with
it. Adoption, travel, pets, chaos, flying pumpkins... anything. You are my happiness.”
August 28, 2024
“You’re not with me because it’s easy and you know I’m leaving?”
“There is nothing about us that is easy…but it’s worth every hard thing to be near you.”
This debut book by Kiri Patterson is utterly adorable! Scott and Marissa have the cutest autumn first meet that really sets the tone for their tempestuous relationship. The ebb and flow of this book is reflective of the personalities of this duo–Marissa is stuck in routine without a plan in sight, while Scott is almost rigid in his plans and expectations, but this small Idaho town and it’s quirky residents have a way of softening a person and replacing blurry wishes with solid desires.
I really enjoy the way this author incorporates the hard and the good with such a great cast of characters who are easy to develop feelings for. I was honestly surprised this is a debut novel.
With a vague dream of escaping to London, Marissa has no plan to fall in love, much less date, but with Scott and his secrets around, things may change. I loved the vibe of this gentle, apple-cinnamon scented book and would recommend this one for any sweet fall-loving romance lover’s list.
Content: ⚠️talk of an off-page accident/death; infertility; kisses only
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
“There is nothing about us that is easy…but it’s worth every hard thing to be near you.”
This debut book by Kiri Patterson is utterly adorable! Scott and Marissa have the cutest autumn first meet that really sets the tone for their tempestuous relationship. The ebb and flow of this book is reflective of the personalities of this duo–Marissa is stuck in routine without a plan in sight, while Scott is almost rigid in his plans and expectations, but this small Idaho town and it’s quirky residents have a way of softening a person and replacing blurry wishes with solid desires.
I really enjoy the way this author incorporates the hard and the good with such a great cast of characters who are easy to develop feelings for. I was honestly surprised this is a debut novel.
With a vague dream of escaping to London, Marissa has no plan to fall in love, much less date, but with Scott and his secrets around, things may change. I loved the vibe of this gentle, apple-cinnamon scented book and would recommend this one for any sweet fall-loving romance lover’s list.
Content: ⚠️talk of an off-page accident/death; infertility; kisses only
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
August 24, 2024
“Trust me, my dear, you get far more from love than what it takes when it’s gone.”
I love finding new indie authors, and was thrilled to have the chance to read Kiri’s debut novel!
It was sweet and charming, with so many fun and romantic moments. It’s a lighthearted story, but it’s also got a lot of depth to it with some complex characters and situations.
What I loved:
🍁 Opposites attract
🍂 Dual POV
🍁 Protective mmc
🍂 Guarded fmc
🍁 Character growth
🍂 Fun meet-cute
🍁 small-town
🍂 Fall vibes
🍁 Nan
🍂 Trunk or treating
🍁 The first kiss
🍂 Grand gestures
🍁 Clean read
What it’s about-
At the town fair, Marissa gets challenged by her besties to join an auction for a date. She wins a date with Scott, and things start out good, but then they fall apart.
She thinks that’s the end of seeing Scott, but gets a big surprise when she goes to work and discovers that Scott is her new boss.
Scott wants to work for a large law firm, but in the meantime is working at Marissa’s firm to help his dad out. He’s also got another reason for working there, something that he’s keeping secret from Marissa.
As they work together, they find they have more in common than they originally thought, and a sweet romance starts to develop.
But when secrets come out, it might ruin everything.
🍂 I thoroughly enjoyed this adorable story, and look forward to the next book by this talented author!
I received a copy from the author, but a positive review was not required.
I love finding new indie authors, and was thrilled to have the chance to read Kiri’s debut novel!
It was sweet and charming, with so many fun and romantic moments. It’s a lighthearted story, but it’s also got a lot of depth to it with some complex characters and situations.
What I loved:
🍁 Opposites attract
🍂 Dual POV
🍁 Protective mmc
🍂 Guarded fmc
🍁 Character growth
🍂 Fun meet-cute
🍁 small-town
🍂 Fall vibes
🍁 Nan
🍂 Trunk or treating
🍁 The first kiss
🍂 Grand gestures
🍁 Clean read
What it’s about-
At the town fair, Marissa gets challenged by her besties to join an auction for a date. She wins a date with Scott, and things start out good, but then they fall apart.
She thinks that’s the end of seeing Scott, but gets a big surprise when she goes to work and discovers that Scott is her new boss.
Scott wants to work for a large law firm, but in the meantime is working at Marissa’s firm to help his dad out. He’s also got another reason for working there, something that he’s keeping secret from Marissa.
As they work together, they find they have more in common than they originally thought, and a sweet romance starts to develop.
But when secrets come out, it might ruin everything.
🍂 I thoroughly enjoyed this adorable story, and look forward to the next book by this talented author!
I received a copy from the author, but a positive review was not required.
Read
October 27, 2025DNF @ 38%. I’m finding I just don’t really care what’s going on in the story, and the lack of editing of really disrupting the flow of the read.
June 28, 2024
Let me tell you, this debut book... has me so excited for what's to come by Kiri 🙌🏻
Marissa struggles with making plans and is letting her past hold her back. Scott only has one thing in mind- work. When they meet on a blind date you can feel the connection instantly! Watching these characters grow throughout the book as independent people and then together is so inspiring. Plus Marissa's besties? LOVED!
This book was given as an ARC but positive reviews were not mandatory. I seriously think if you love romcoms and some good character development- you need to read this!!
Marissa struggles with making plans and is letting her past hold her back. Scott only has one thing in mind- work. When they meet on a blind date you can feel the connection instantly! Watching these characters grow throughout the book as independent people and then together is so inspiring. Plus Marissa's besties? LOVED!
This book was given as an ARC but positive reviews were not mandatory. I seriously think if you love romcoms and some good character development- you need to read this!!
November 16, 2024
OVERALL STAR RATING: 4/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
I was so excited to have the opportunity to read and review this debut novel from Kiri Patterson – a perfect book for the cozy season! Marissa and Scott will win your heart. Fun and sweet moments coupled with plenty of depth as Marissa grapples with the mental and physical scars left behind from the tragic death of her parents when she was a teenager.
Marissa never prioritizes dating. In fact, she tries to avoid it. The physical scars she bears, which have left her unable to ever have children, have made her days of dreaming of a family drift off to the wayside. Falling in love and having to tell her partner that she can’t have kids is more than her heart can bear, so she avoids the situation all together. That is, until Scott walks into her life. And you’ll love the way he walks in – nothing like being forced into being put on auction for a date! lol
Scott is an extreme planner and he too had very little interest in dating. He simply can’t resist Marissa’s charm. Both are holding onto secrets though and are really going to need to commit themselves to breaking down each other’s walls and focusing on healing to move forward into a future together.
When Marissa lost her parents at a young age, her grandmother took her in to raise her. She was the cutest and funniest character – on a dating journey of her own even! Her advice and her love for her granddaughter was everything. She’s a hoot and you’re just going to love their family dynamic.
This book was very well written in dual POV. I was so impressed that this was Kiri’s first book. Can’t wait to see where this writing journey takes her next! 😊
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
I was so excited to have the opportunity to read and review this debut novel from Kiri Patterson – a perfect book for the cozy season! Marissa and Scott will win your heart. Fun and sweet moments coupled with plenty of depth as Marissa grapples with the mental and physical scars left behind from the tragic death of her parents when she was a teenager.
Marissa never prioritizes dating. In fact, she tries to avoid it. The physical scars she bears, which have left her unable to ever have children, have made her days of dreaming of a family drift off to the wayside. Falling in love and having to tell her partner that she can’t have kids is more than her heart can bear, so she avoids the situation all together. That is, until Scott walks into her life. And you’ll love the way he walks in – nothing like being forced into being put on auction for a date! lol
Scott is an extreme planner and he too had very little interest in dating. He simply can’t resist Marissa’s charm. Both are holding onto secrets though and are really going to need to commit themselves to breaking down each other’s walls and focusing on healing to move forward into a future together.
When Marissa lost her parents at a young age, her grandmother took her in to raise her. She was the cutest and funniest character – on a dating journey of her own even! Her advice and her love for her granddaughter was everything. She’s a hoot and you’re just going to love their family dynamic.
This book was very well written in dual POV. I was so impressed that this was Kiri’s first book. Can’t wait to see where this writing journey takes her next! 😊
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
July 29, 2024
Marissa has scars on her stomach from the car accident with her parents and also suffers with infertility as a result of the car accident. She has sworn off dating. She likes to live in the moment with no planning.
Scott likes to plan. He is a lawyer looking to move up in his field but keeps helping his family. When Scott becomes Marissa’s boss there is attraction between them but with both of them hiding secrets and Marissa’s fear of being in a relationship it makes things complicated.
This was such a sweet fall story! I really loved both Scott and Marissa so much! I loved their relationship and how they cared for the community and each other. I also loved Marissa’s Grandma, she is hilarious. The grand gestures at the end were so sweet and I really loved how the author did them! Autumn events are all throughout this story making it a perfect Fall read! I also loved the authors message about self worth. Overall, I thought this a great story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Content: just kisses, one kiss is more of a make out, fmc is infertile, some shirtless scenes where fmc ogles him a little, another scene where she quickly checks out his backside
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Scott likes to plan. He is a lawyer looking to move up in his field but keeps helping his family. When Scott becomes Marissa’s boss there is attraction between them but with both of them hiding secrets and Marissa’s fear of being in a relationship it makes things complicated.
This was such a sweet fall story! I really loved both Scott and Marissa so much! I loved their relationship and how they cared for the community and each other. I also loved Marissa’s Grandma, she is hilarious. The grand gestures at the end were so sweet and I really loved how the author did them! Autumn events are all throughout this story making it a perfect Fall read! I also loved the authors message about self worth. Overall, I thought this a great story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Content: just kisses, one kiss is more of a make out, fmc is infertile, some shirtless scenes where fmc ogles him a little, another scene where she quickly checks out his backside
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 31, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫(3.5)
Marissa will do a lot for a free cookie—even agree to a blind date. But when cinnamon-scented Scott turns out to be her new boss, pretending the date never happened becomes impossible. His carefully planned life didn’t include her, and hers didn’t include him. Yet love has a way of rewriting even the best-laid plans.
This small-town romance had all the ingredients for a sweet, Hallmark-esque love story. I really loved the setup of this one—I mean, who wouldn’t go on a blind date with a handsome lawyer in a suit, especially when cookies are involved? You don’t have to tell Marissa twice. But what you might need to remind her of throughout her time getting to know her new boss—ahem, the blind-date lawyer—is that not all plans are bad, and your tragic past doesn’t mean you lose your right to be part of someone else’s plan.
As is always needed, the side characters are spunky and thoughtful, the trope antics humorous—I mean, who doesn’t love being forced to run a trunk-or-treat—and the kisses are sweet.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy! I can’t wait to begin the Christmas story set in small-town Idaho.
Perfect for you if you like:
Hallmark
Small town care and celebrations
“I don’t date”
Forced proximity
Similar to:
Accidentally Amy by Lynn Painter (open door)
Beachy Keen by Kasey Stockton
The Heartbreak Hotel by Ellen O’Clover (open door)
🌶️closed door romance (kisses only)
⚠️previous death of parents, previous car accident, infertility
Marissa will do a lot for a free cookie—even agree to a blind date. But when cinnamon-scented Scott turns out to be her new boss, pretending the date never happened becomes impossible. His carefully planned life didn’t include her, and hers didn’t include him. Yet love has a way of rewriting even the best-laid plans.
This small-town romance had all the ingredients for a sweet, Hallmark-esque love story. I really loved the setup of this one—I mean, who wouldn’t go on a blind date with a handsome lawyer in a suit, especially when cookies are involved? You don’t have to tell Marissa twice. But what you might need to remind her of throughout her time getting to know her new boss—ahem, the blind-date lawyer—is that not all plans are bad, and your tragic past doesn’t mean you lose your right to be part of someone else’s plan.
As is always needed, the side characters are spunky and thoughtful, the trope antics humorous—I mean, who doesn’t love being forced to run a trunk-or-treat—and the kisses are sweet.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy! I can’t wait to begin the Christmas story set in small-town Idaho.
Perfect for you if you like:
Hallmark
Small town care and celebrations
“I don’t date”
Forced proximity
Similar to:
Accidentally Amy by Lynn Painter (open door)
Beachy Keen by Kasey Stockton
The Heartbreak Hotel by Ellen O’Clover (open door)
🌶️closed door romance (kisses only)
⚠️previous death of parents, previous car accident, infertility
June 30, 2024
“Trust me, my dear, you get far more from love than what it takes when it’s gone.”
Kiri Patterson’s debut novel is the perfect autumn read, complete with sweet romance, relatable characters, and flying pumpkins.
Marissa hates plans. She wants to live in the moment, taking on adventures and trying new things. However, on a girl’s night at the Fall Festival, a blind date with intentional lawyer Scott may be more than she has bargained for.
This cozy small-town romance was a joy to read. Both Marissa and Scott are compelling characters with complex motivations and endearing personalities. Hillsdale was immersive, full of fall festivities such as a trunk-or-treat, pie contest, and more. It is a wholesome romance that includes themes of hope, growth, and overcoming adversity.
I look forward to reading any future works from Patterson!
Kiri Patterson’s debut novel is the perfect autumn read, complete with sweet romance, relatable characters, and flying pumpkins.
Marissa hates plans. She wants to live in the moment, taking on adventures and trying new things. However, on a girl’s night at the Fall Festival, a blind date with intentional lawyer Scott may be more than she has bargained for.
This cozy small-town romance was a joy to read. Both Marissa and Scott are compelling characters with complex motivations and endearing personalities. Hillsdale was immersive, full of fall festivities such as a trunk-or-treat, pie contest, and more. It is a wholesome romance that includes themes of hope, growth, and overcoming adversity.
I look forward to reading any future works from Patterson!
July 2, 2024
This is a cozy read. It really brings out the fall and fall activities. I loved how it captured the small town experience. The characters are likable and easy to get behind.
October 27, 2025
Super cute & clean. Audio was good!
November 10, 2025
2.5 stars, but I'll round up.
I found both main characters completely obnoxious throughout most of this book. The only character I really liked was the grandma.
Very predictable, nothing new.
I found both main characters completely obnoxious throughout most of this book. The only character I really liked was the grandma.
Very predictable, nothing new.
September 9, 2024
This debut novel by Kiri was the perfect book to get me all ready for fall!! It was literally the cutest book ever! The characters, the Gilmore Girls vibes, the romance, the love and laughter…it all blends perfectly!
Marissa and Scott’s story started off with a hilarious meet cute! They were just destined to be after that! Even though they didn’t think so at the time…
Scott lived his life by planning everything. Marissa lived in the moment and didn’t make plans. I loved how they were total opposites who learned so much from each other. The character growth was one of my favorite things about this book. And the little twists thrown in the mix made this read one I couldn’t hardly put down!
I found myself rooting so much for their happily ever after. And if anyone deserved it, it was Marissa and Scott. I laughed, shed a few tears and dreaded leaving the little town of Hillsdale and all its charm!
If you love Fall and romance, then grab yourself a cozy blanket, a warm drink and bundle up for the sweetest fall romcom you ever did read!!
Things I Loved:
🍁Pumpkin chucking zone
🍁Blind Date Raffle
🍁Workplace romance
🍁Forced proximity
🍁Handyman Scott
🍁The bloody nose
🍁Trunk or Treat
🍁That first kiss!!
🍁The grand gesture
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Marissa and Scott’s story started off with a hilarious meet cute! They were just destined to be after that! Even though they didn’t think so at the time…
Scott lived his life by planning everything. Marissa lived in the moment and didn’t make plans. I loved how they were total opposites who learned so much from each other. The character growth was one of my favorite things about this book. And the little twists thrown in the mix made this read one I couldn’t hardly put down!
I found myself rooting so much for their happily ever after. And if anyone deserved it, it was Marissa and Scott. I laughed, shed a few tears and dreaded leaving the little town of Hillsdale and all its charm!
If you love Fall and romance, then grab yourself a cozy blanket, a warm drink and bundle up for the sweetest fall romcom you ever did read!!
Things I Loved:
🍁Pumpkin chucking zone
🍁Blind Date Raffle
🍁Workplace romance
🍁Forced proximity
🍁Handyman Scott
🍁The bloody nose
🍁Trunk or Treat
🍁That first kiss!!
🍁The grand gesture
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 4, 2025
I picked this up on a whim because a friend recommended it. And holy moly am I ever so glad I did! I went in blind and was blown away! The meet cute was hilarious and I continued to laugh through out the book. The characters were well thought out and the more background you get the more your heart aches for them.
This book has the trifecta, which for me is 1) laughable moments. 2) Moments that’ll make you cry. 3) Swoon worthy romance.
I highly recommend this one!
Read if you like:
-Contemporary romance
-Fall vibes
-Small town romance
-Opposites attract
-Hilarious meet cute
-Guarded FMC
-Secret motives
-Multiple POV
Plot: 5 stars
Character Development: 5 stars
Romance: 5 stars
Writing Style: 5 stars
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Spoiler alerts:
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Trigger warnings: Death of parents, orphaned. Infertility. Just kissing, closed door.
This book has the trifecta, which for me is 1) laughable moments. 2) Moments that’ll make you cry. 3) Swoon worthy romance.
I highly recommend this one!
Read if you like:
-Contemporary romance
-Fall vibes
-Small town romance
-Opposites attract
-Hilarious meet cute
-Guarded FMC
-Secret motives
-Multiple POV
Plot: 5 stars
Character Development: 5 stars
Romance: 5 stars
Writing Style: 5 stars
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Spoiler alerts:
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.
.
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Trigger warnings: Death of parents, orphaned. Infertility. Just kissing, closed door.
August 23, 2024
I want to thank Kiri Patterson and Bookfunnel for an early ARC in exchange for a honest review.
This was such a cute debut! Patterson really knows what she was doing when she wrote this.
The cuteness you'll feel when reading this, the loving families of both protagonists will steal you away (Just give me her Nan's and we'll be even Mrs. Kiri Patterson) and the way I felt myself healing while reading about Melissa's story - the strength she found in herself and in the people close to her that never gave up (again her Nan being absolutely the iconic queen she is).
The dynamic between Scott and Melissa where absolutely the cutest thing I read in a while, how the both learned from each other - even if Scott still has some explaining to do. But what I loved the most was how authentic each character felt, how their flaws were present and actually felt real. (The number of times I wanted to smack Scott as he kept doings things is never-ending).
What to expect:
-Small Town romance
-Opposite attracts
-Loving Families andddd some amazing wholesome moments.
-Flawed and realistic characters.
-They work together
4.25⭐️ 0🌶️
This was such a cute debut! Patterson really knows what she was doing when she wrote this.
The cuteness you'll feel when reading this, the loving families of both protagonists will steal you away (Just give me her Nan's and we'll be even Mrs. Kiri Patterson) and the way I felt myself healing while reading about Melissa's story - the strength she found in herself and in the people close to her that never gave up (again her Nan being absolutely the iconic queen she is).
The dynamic between Scott and Melissa where absolutely the cutest thing I read in a while, how the both learned from each other - even if Scott still has some explaining to do. But what I loved the most was how authentic each character felt, how their flaws were present and actually felt real. (The number of times I wanted to smack Scott as he kept doings things is never-ending).
What to expect:
-Small Town romance
-Opposite attracts
-Loving Families andddd some amazing wholesome moments.
-Flawed and realistic characters.
-They work together
4.25⭐️ 0🌶️
September 14, 2024
No Plans to Fall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content Warnings: woman dealing with infertility, ruthless lawyers, death of parents, car accident that resulted in death and life changing injuries
Marissa is the fun one in her group of friends, but this latest idea of hers might not have been the best. When a girls night out turns into Marissa dragging her friends to do one thing they never do, she isn’t quite ready for their payback. A blind date auction, luckily for her it was only bidding, but when her friend Rose lucks out with a winning ticket, Mar is stuck. But the date doesn’t end up being terrible, at least until she freaks out, runs away and gets him smacked in the head with a pumpkin. After that epic fail, she hopes to never see him again, just her luck that he ends up being her new boss. But Mar and Scott might be just what the other one needs in their life, not to change them, but to bring them to their best.
I admit I struggled with this one at first, I almost DNF’d it, because I was hating the characters of both Marissa and Scott. Both of them were the worst, Marissa was too manic pixie, and Scott too much of a robot. But, thankfully I was able to get past the rough bit until Marissa and Scott started changing for the better. Scott calmed Marissa down a little bit by giving her a soft place to land and showing her that making some plans was okay. While Marissa gave Scott another new dream to look forward to that wasn’t as career and luxury focused as his previous dream. I really saw the growth in character and the drive behind the plot not just a race to the end zone, meaning dating and/or getting married.
Content Warnings: woman dealing with infertility, ruthless lawyers, death of parents, car accident that resulted in death and life changing injuries
Marissa is the fun one in her group of friends, but this latest idea of hers might not have been the best. When a girls night out turns into Marissa dragging her friends to do one thing they never do, she isn’t quite ready for their payback. A blind date auction, luckily for her it was only bidding, but when her friend Rose lucks out with a winning ticket, Mar is stuck. But the date doesn’t end up being terrible, at least until she freaks out, runs away and gets him smacked in the head with a pumpkin. After that epic fail, she hopes to never see him again, just her luck that he ends up being her new boss. But Mar and Scott might be just what the other one needs in their life, not to change them, but to bring them to their best.
I admit I struggled with this one at first, I almost DNF’d it, because I was hating the characters of both Marissa and Scott. Both of them were the worst, Marissa was too manic pixie, and Scott too much of a robot. But, thankfully I was able to get past the rough bit until Marissa and Scott started changing for the better. Scott calmed Marissa down a little bit by giving her a soft place to land and showing her that making some plans was okay. While Marissa gave Scott another new dream to look forward to that wasn’t as career and luxury focused as his previous dream. I really saw the growth in character and the drive behind the plot not just a race to the end zone, meaning dating and/or getting married.
August 17, 2024
This book. THIS BOOK!! No plans to fall is Kiri Paterson’s debut novel and I am so grateful to be a part of her ARC team!
This book is about Marissa, who is struggling to come to terms with her past and has lots of troubles she runs away from, and Scott, a lawyer who makes work the top priority and center of his life. From a chance meeting at a fair in small town Idaho, these two skyrocket their relationship. This was so cute and I loved it!
What I LOVED:
Cute kisses 💋
Closed door 🚪
Small town
Family aspect
MMC’s caring side
Marissa’s friends
Trunk or treat 🎃
The auction 😍
LONDON?!! 🙈
4.5 stars! Please read this!
*This book was given as an e-arc for a review… positivity was not mandatory*
This book is about Marissa, who is struggling to come to terms with her past and has lots of troubles she runs away from, and Scott, a lawyer who makes work the top priority and center of his life. From a chance meeting at a fair in small town Idaho, these two skyrocket their relationship. This was so cute and I loved it!
What I LOVED:
Cute kisses 💋
Closed door 🚪
Small town
Family aspect
MMC’s caring side
Marissa’s friends
Trunk or treat 🎃
The auction 😍
LONDON?!! 🙈
4.5 stars! Please read this!
*This book was given as an e-arc for a review… positivity was not mandatory*
August 24, 2024
Reader’s Notes:
– this is told from Marissa & Scott’s points of view
– the story opens up in a haunted house & the attractions inside are described a little bit – blood smears, creepy actors, etc. (this goes on for a few paragraphs before the characters exit)
– it is mentioned that a character had been in a car accident 7 years prior; due to the accident, their parents passed, the character has scars, & the character deals with infertility
Review:
I really enjoyed this debut romance! I loved getting to know the quirky townsfolk of Hillsdale and seeing the tight community they had. I loved getting to know Marissa and Scott as they were not only trying to figure out what was going on between them, but also what they actually wanted to do with their lives (compared to what they first thought they wanted). I loved that both of them had their own flaws and that they work on them throughout the story with their friends and family cheering them on as they grew. I loved the dynamic between Marissa and Scott with their odd first meeting to discovering they’d be boss and employee. I loved that Scott had a lot to learn about Hillsdale and gave us a bit of a crash course ourselves on what kind of people there were as well as how things worked in the small town. I loved the bits of humor thrown in because of how unexpected somethings were and the little issues that arose by not knowing what was going on.
I can’t wait to find out more about Faith’s story and to see who else will be getting a book of their own!
Summary:
Marissa is all about fun, as long as there is no plan or ties to new people involved. She can have fun on a blind date, but she isn’t about to make plans for a second one. Not when she hopes to go wherever her whims bring her and the guy lives hours away from her hometown. Marissa will just go back to her small-town life and continue earning money at the local lawyer’s office until she’s ready to finally take the plunge of a trip to Europe. Too bad she wasn’t aware that her firm merged with the same one her blind date worked at… or that he’d be the one coming in to fix things up…
Scott has dreams to be a big-shot lawyer with all the accolades that come with finally making it in the industry. But when his father merges his firm with another that isn’t making any money, Scott feels the need to put his plans on hold once more in order to save the family business. And when a different, more successful firm reaches out with an offer to get Scott what he wants in life as well as save his father from his poor choice, Scott thinks that he has everything in the bag. Too bad he didn’t know what being a lawyer in the small town of Hillsdale was actually like or that the one date that had the possibility to become more would be his new employee…
– this is told from Marissa & Scott’s points of view
– the story opens up in a haunted house & the attractions inside are described a little bit – blood smears, creepy actors, etc. (this goes on for a few paragraphs before the characters exit)
– it is mentioned that a character had been in a car accident 7 years prior; due to the accident, their parents passed, the character has scars, & the character deals with infertility
Review:
I really enjoyed this debut romance! I loved getting to know the quirky townsfolk of Hillsdale and seeing the tight community they had. I loved getting to know Marissa and Scott as they were not only trying to figure out what was going on between them, but also what they actually wanted to do with their lives (compared to what they first thought they wanted). I loved that both of them had their own flaws and that they work on them throughout the story with their friends and family cheering them on as they grew. I loved the dynamic between Marissa and Scott with their odd first meeting to discovering they’d be boss and employee. I loved that Scott had a lot to learn about Hillsdale and gave us a bit of a crash course ourselves on what kind of people there were as well as how things worked in the small town. I loved the bits of humor thrown in because of how unexpected somethings were and the little issues that arose by not knowing what was going on.
I can’t wait to find out more about Faith’s story and to see who else will be getting a book of their own!
Summary:
Marissa is all about fun, as long as there is no plan or ties to new people involved. She can have fun on a blind date, but she isn’t about to make plans for a second one. Not when she hopes to go wherever her whims bring her and the guy lives hours away from her hometown. Marissa will just go back to her small-town life and continue earning money at the local lawyer’s office until she’s ready to finally take the plunge of a trip to Europe. Too bad she wasn’t aware that her firm merged with the same one her blind date worked at… or that he’d be the one coming in to fix things up…
Scott has dreams to be a big-shot lawyer with all the accolades that come with finally making it in the industry. But when his father merges his firm with another that isn’t making any money, Scott feels the need to put his plans on hold once more in order to save the family business. And when a different, more successful firm reaches out with an offer to get Scott what he wants in life as well as save his father from his poor choice, Scott thinks that he has everything in the bag. Too bad he didn’t know what being a lawyer in the small town of Hillsdale was actually like or that the one date that had the possibility to become more would be his new employee…
August 20, 2024
Alright, I see you, Kiri! This adorable debut completely won me over!
Marissa doesn't make plans, including ones that involve romance. When a blind date gone wrong ends up being her handsome new boss, she wants to make plans to leave town but decides to stay. At least for now.
Once Scott completes his business in town, he can go back to his plan for a successful career at a prestigious firm. Small-town life - or a small town romance - was not part of his plan.
As Scott and Marissa work closely together, they discover that they have more in common than they first thought, including an attraction to each other that grows stronger no matter how much they fight it. But when secrets come to light, they must each decide if they want to make a future together part of their plan.
What you'll love:
workplace romance
dual pov
sworn off dating
small-town
fall vibes
hilarious meet-cute
the trunk or treat
Nan
that first kiss!!
Marissa's besties
the pie contest
grand gestures
What a perfect way to start out my fall romance reading for the year! I was completely hooked from the beginning - that meet-cute was hilarious and adorable and swoony all at once, lol! I was shipping Scott and Marissa hard from that point on (Scarissa? Marott? I might have to work on that....)
Too many fun and romantic scenes to count and I love that though the attraction was there from tOhe beginning, the push and pull romance was paced so perfectly. And oh, when Scott gets protective and flirty? Where are all the melty emojis at?!?
This is definitely a romcom with lot of lighthearted, fun scenes (one word: Nan) but it was also so much more than that. Both Scott and Marissa had a lot of depth to their characters and it brought an extra layer to the story that helped me connect with it even more. I loved watching them grow and learn together, and that last grand gesture was the perfect ending!
Loved everything about this debut and you can be sure I will be reading whatever this author writes next. So grab a sweater, a cozy blanket and a mug of hot chocolate and pick this one up - you don't want to miss this adorable fall romance!
TW:
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Marissa doesn't make plans, including ones that involve romance. When a blind date gone wrong ends up being her handsome new boss, she wants to make plans to leave town but decides to stay. At least for now.
Once Scott completes his business in town, he can go back to his plan for a successful career at a prestigious firm. Small-town life - or a small town romance - was not part of his plan.
As Scott and Marissa work closely together, they discover that they have more in common than they first thought, including an attraction to each other that grows stronger no matter how much they fight it. But when secrets come to light, they must each decide if they want to make a future together part of their plan.
What you'll love:
workplace romance
dual pov
sworn off dating
small-town
fall vibes
hilarious meet-cute
the trunk or treat
Nan
that first kiss!!
Marissa's besties
the pie contest
grand gestures
What a perfect way to start out my fall romance reading for the year! I was completely hooked from the beginning - that meet-cute was hilarious and adorable and swoony all at once, lol! I was shipping Scott and Marissa hard from that point on (Scarissa? Marott? I might have to work on that....)
Too many fun and romantic scenes to count and I love that though the attraction was there from tOhe beginning, the push and pull romance was paced so perfectly. And oh, when Scott gets protective and flirty? Where are all the melty emojis at?!?
This is definitely a romcom with lot of lighthearted, fun scenes (one word: Nan) but it was also so much more than that. Both Scott and Marissa had a lot of depth to their characters and it brought an extra layer to the story that helped me connect with it even more. I loved watching them grow and learn together, and that last grand gesture was the perfect ending!
Loved everything about this debut and you can be sure I will be reading whatever this author writes next. So grab a sweater, a cozy blanket and a mug of hot chocolate and pick this one up - you don't want to miss this adorable fall romance!
TW:
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
September 5, 2025
This is Kiri Patterson’s debut book and it’s really good! Sometimes I think as a bookstagrammer I get leery towards debut books because I worry that I will be crushing dreams if I didn’t like it… that isn’t the case here, don’t worry! She gave her protagonists some big personal hurdles and they were able to walk through them, even if they got a few scratches along the way!
Marissa is a woman, who has sworn off dating because of her ex and his mom, trust me her reasons are valid! So, when she drags her besties to a fall festival an hour away, they flip the tables on her when one of them buys a whole slew of tickets for the bachelor raffle! Lucky girl, she won the only guy in a suit and looks almost as uncomfortable as her! Through some unexpected twists, turns, and flying pumpkins, these strangers become bonded or maybe it’s all for the love of a good cookie! Either way, when the suited man turns up at her work on Monday, things get a whole lot more interesting! Marissa never knew that a stuffy lawyer could flip her world upside down and challenge her to think beyond her simple life and small town and the awkwardness that was always in the background, she slowly agreed.
Scott is a man with vision, tunnel vision. Scott was sent to Hillsdale as a favor to his dad and this is not the career move he was planning on. Now he was begrudgingly trying to “fix” the local law office, while vying for his dream position at Raymond & Johnson Law! What awaited him was Marissa, the girl who won the chance to be paired up with him to win cookie coupons! Moreover, he needed her help and desperately if the town and its residents were to ever accept him!
This small town hosts the usual suspects of gossips, stubborns, flirts, narrow minded people and the besties! Honestly Hillsdale wouldn’t be the same without any of them! I loved getting to know the townsfolk as I did the romance! Both protags wanted to be done with the town or so it seemed and yet together, they were able to breathe new life into their lungs and purposes for their lives! Job well done and can’t wait to see what one of the besties’ stories is all about this fall!
TW: grief
Marissa is a woman, who has sworn off dating because of her ex and his mom, trust me her reasons are valid! So, when she drags her besties to a fall festival an hour away, they flip the tables on her when one of them buys a whole slew of tickets for the bachelor raffle! Lucky girl, she won the only guy in a suit and looks almost as uncomfortable as her! Through some unexpected twists, turns, and flying pumpkins, these strangers become bonded or maybe it’s all for the love of a good cookie! Either way, when the suited man turns up at her work on Monday, things get a whole lot more interesting! Marissa never knew that a stuffy lawyer could flip her world upside down and challenge her to think beyond her simple life and small town and the awkwardness that was always in the background, she slowly agreed.
Scott is a man with vision, tunnel vision. Scott was sent to Hillsdale as a favor to his dad and this is not the career move he was planning on. Now he was begrudgingly trying to “fix” the local law office, while vying for his dream position at Raymond & Johnson Law! What awaited him was Marissa, the girl who won the chance to be paired up with him to win cookie coupons! Moreover, he needed her help and desperately if the town and its residents were to ever accept him!
This small town hosts the usual suspects of gossips, stubborns, flirts, narrow minded people and the besties! Honestly Hillsdale wouldn’t be the same without any of them! I loved getting to know the townsfolk as I did the romance! Both protags wanted to be done with the town or so it seemed and yet together, they were able to breathe new life into their lungs and purposes for their lives! Job well done and can’t wait to see what one of the besties’ stories is all about this fall!
TW: grief
August 22, 2024
A perfectly delightful sweet-town romance!
Genre: Sweet Romance, Contemporary Romance, Cozy Romance
Spice Level: Kisses
Language: No profanity
The set-up of a romance must be right for the ending to be satisfying. I am thrilled that NO PLAN TO FALL does an amazing job! The author establishes everything important for the reader to know at the outset, and those elements are used to perfection to give the emotional "aww" at the end.
The characters:
Marissa is working through heavy issues with the loss of her parents and the lingering effects of the car wreck. Her focus and abilities enhance everything she touches, though she doesn't realize that.
Scott is a slick city guy with big dreams to make up for the small-town attitude of his parents. And he makes a royal mess of things in this small-town as their new lawyer.
Other side characters: Marissa's grandmother and friends are a great support system. I expect to see more romance stories for the friends. Scott's parents set a great tone for themes that I noticed—such as people are more important than things.
The setting is a warm hug with all the small-town vibes. Setting this in October is fun—it made me think of snuggly blankets, crisp air, beautiful fall colors, and of course, cinnamon.
Who are your favorite authors on your sweet romance list?
Now, add "Kiri Patterson" and keep watch for her next book. You won't want to miss it!
I highly recommend this book.
Happy (falling in love) reading!
Genre: Sweet Romance, Contemporary Romance, Cozy Romance
Spice Level: Kisses
Language: No profanity
The set-up of a romance must be right for the ending to be satisfying. I am thrilled that NO PLAN TO FALL does an amazing job! The author establishes everything important for the reader to know at the outset, and those elements are used to perfection to give the emotional "aww" at the end.
The characters:
Marissa is working through heavy issues with the loss of her parents and the lingering effects of the car wreck. Her focus and abilities enhance everything she touches, though she doesn't realize that.
Scott is a slick city guy with big dreams to make up for the small-town attitude of his parents. And he makes a royal mess of things in this small-town as their new lawyer.
Other side characters: Marissa's grandmother and friends are a great support system. I expect to see more romance stories for the friends. Scott's parents set a great tone for themes that I noticed—such as people are more important than things.
The setting is a warm hug with all the small-town vibes. Setting this in October is fun—it made me think of snuggly blankets, crisp air, beautiful fall colors, and of course, cinnamon.
Who are your favorite authors on your sweet romance list?
Now, add "Kiri Patterson" and keep watch for her next book. You won't want to miss it!
I highly recommend this book.
Happy (falling in love) reading!
February 15, 2025
he longer I’ve sat with this book since I finished it the more I remember it fondly. The beginning was a bit slow for me with some quirks I didn’t love, but the second half really picked up and it put the sweet in sweet romance! I devoured the second half.
Marissa’s character has this aloofness about her that really worked and Scott’s character development was so good. He was utterly adorable once he loosened up! I still can’t get over how cute they are together haha. The progressions of strangers to more was done very well. The small town felt cozy. The main characters and core side characters all just felt like real people and I pictured the writing with ease. I enjoyed the humor the side characters brought. I also appreciated that autumn seasonal stuff is more of a back drop to the story and not in your face. Overall this was a rom-com with great depth!
The 3rd act breakup had my heart aching! I loved it haha. I was asked to read and review. I was gifted my physical copy. My thoughts are my own.
in this book: small town, opposites attract, he's her new boss, forced proximity, strangers to friends to more, unexpected love, dual-pov
content guide: clean for romance, language, and violence
content warning: non-descriptive past tragedy/trauma
Marissa’s character has this aloofness about her that really worked and Scott’s character development was so good. He was utterly adorable once he loosened up! I still can’t get over how cute they are together haha. The progressions of strangers to more was done very well. The small town felt cozy. The main characters and core side characters all just felt like real people and I pictured the writing with ease. I enjoyed the humor the side characters brought. I also appreciated that autumn seasonal stuff is more of a back drop to the story and not in your face. Overall this was a rom-com with great depth!
The 3rd act breakup had my heart aching! I loved it haha. I was asked to read and review. I was gifted my physical copy. My thoughts are my own.
in this book: small town, opposites attract, he's her new boss, forced proximity, strangers to friends to more, unexpected love, dual-pov
content guide: clean for romance, language, and violence
content warning: non-descriptive past tragedy/trauma
August 22, 2024
"Like Red Green says, if the women don't find you handsome, they better find you handy."
This debut is packed full of hidden delights! I kid you not, I squealed so loud when I came across this Red Green quote. You got a mean girl that speaks with a southern drawl (even though she was born and raised in that small Idaho town), a grandma that is a hoot and a half each time she drools over the MMC, gnomes that may or may not be coming to life at night to wreak havoc, and all the small town chaos and friendships you could want.
No Plans to Fall by Kiri Patterson is a MUST READ!! Her writing style, banter, character development, grand gestures, emotional reading journey... EVERYTHING is a masterpiece!
Some favorite lines that will stay with me forever....
"Trust me, my dear, you get far more from love than what it takes when it's gone."
"Those are all wonderful things, but Mar, those are things you do. What if you did nothing? What about on the days where you just exist? You need to love that girl too. The girl that isn't based on a to-do list."
What are you waiting for? Grab that PSL, pick up this book, and fall in love with your next five-star read.
This debut is packed full of hidden delights! I kid you not, I squealed so loud when I came across this Red Green quote. You got a mean girl that speaks with a southern drawl (even though she was born and raised in that small Idaho town), a grandma that is a hoot and a half each time she drools over the MMC, gnomes that may or may not be coming to life at night to wreak havoc, and all the small town chaos and friendships you could want.
No Plans to Fall by Kiri Patterson is a MUST READ!! Her writing style, banter, character development, grand gestures, emotional reading journey... EVERYTHING is a masterpiece!
Some favorite lines that will stay with me forever....
"Trust me, my dear, you get far more from love than what it takes when it's gone."
"Those are all wonderful things, but Mar, those are things you do. What if you did nothing? What about on the days where you just exist? You need to love that girl too. The girl that isn't based on a to-do list."
What are you waiting for? Grab that PSL, pick up this book, and fall in love with your next five-star read.
August 31, 2024
I had the opportunity to read Kiri Patterson’s debut novel, No Plans to Fall, and I’m so glad I did. You never know what you’re going to get from an author you’ve never read before, but oh my goodness, Patterson did not disappoint. I was laughing, tearing up, swooning and smiling as I read. Scott and Marissa’s meet-cute had me cracking up right from the start, and from there, I knew I was going to enjoy this book. No Plans To Fall has a little bit of Gilmore Girl/Stars Hollow vibes, with some of the quirky townspeople and their ways of doing things. And there was a depth to the story that I really enjoyed as well. These characters feel like real people, with very relatable life experiences, fears and dreams. Their struggles do not feel contrived. The way Patterson was able to craft a story where the characters deal with heavier topics in a realistic way without making the book too heavy was wonderful! I’m excited for whatever Kiri Patterson has up next - Is James going to get his own story?! Or what about Michael?!
Intimacy: Kisses only
Content Considerations: Infertility, Loss of loved ones (past), Grief
Intimacy: Kisses only
Content Considerations: Infertility, Loss of loved ones (past), Grief
June 27, 2024
Marissa gets convinced to join an auction for a date. She happens to win the date with Scott. First impressions show they are opposites. Scott likes having a plan and Marissa wants to go with the flow. They get along really well throughout the date. At the end, Scott asks Marissa on a date, which she turns down. She thinks that’s the end of seeing Scott as they’re from different towns.
Scott is determined to work for a large law firm and move up in the world. His lawyer dad takes over a law firm in Hillsdale that needs help and asks Scott to turn it around, which leads him right to Marissa. This is the law firm she works at.
Marissa is determined to keep Scott at an arm’s length. Scott is determined to keep to his goals. Scott quickly discovers he can help Marissa make plans for her lifelong dream and she can help him gain favor in town.
Sometimes dreams and plans have to change as a person grows.
This book was wonderful!!! I laughed and I cried. I loved watching the characters learn about themselves.
Kiri Patterson did a phenomenal job on this book!
Scott is determined to work for a large law firm and move up in the world. His lawyer dad takes over a law firm in Hillsdale that needs help and asks Scott to turn it around, which leads him right to Marissa. This is the law firm she works at.
Marissa is determined to keep Scott at an arm’s length. Scott is determined to keep to his goals. Scott quickly discovers he can help Marissa make plans for her lifelong dream and she can help him gain favor in town.
Sometimes dreams and plans have to change as a person grows.
This book was wonderful!!! I laughed and I cried. I loved watching the characters learn about themselves.
Kiri Patterson did a phenomenal job on this book!
November 10, 2024
The story in itself was very cute, i rated 3/5 stars because it wasn't an all-consuming, think about it all the time, couldnt put it down kind of book for me. I felt that Scott (MMC) and Marissa (FMC) were very relatable, it was very easy to understand their thoughts/feeling sand connect with them and put myself in their shoes. I loved being able to read about how where they both started their journey separately, living their own lives with their own set expectations and goals but being able to see how the dynamic between the two changed their expectations and goals, but allowed them to fave their fears but ultimately redeem themselves in the end. I do love that it is a happy ever after at the end but what I love even more about the ending was that it didnt quite end the way I would have predicted it to which was a pleasant surprise!!
Overall, this was a very cute, easy read with a romantic love story and amazing redemption arcs, but the story and romance itself didnt quite fully reel me in enough to become obsessed with it and need to finish the book within the same day.
Overall, this was a very cute, easy read with a romantic love story and amazing redemption arcs, but the story and romance itself didnt quite fully reel me in enough to become obsessed with it and need to finish the book within the same day.
July 5, 2024
From the moment I opened this book, I was absolutely hooked! Small town romances have always been a favorite of mine, and this one did not disappoint. What really stood out to me was how the storyline wasn't just propelled by events but by the rich, dynamic characters. Marissa and Scott were crafted with such depth—faults and all—and it was their personalities that truly shaped the narrative.
The side characters were equally engaging, each bringing their own unique flavor to the story. The pacing was spot on; nothing felt rushed, yet the story flowed effortlessly. Every chapter was a delightful journey, making it impossible for me to put the book down.
Overall, this was an exceptional read. I'll be recommending it to all my friends and it’s definitely going on my re-read list. To the author, bravo! I am eagerly looking forward to your future works. For a debut novel, this was a masterpiece.
The side characters were equally engaging, each bringing their own unique flavor to the story. The pacing was spot on; nothing felt rushed, yet the story flowed effortlessly. Every chapter was a delightful journey, making it impossible for me to put the book down.
Overall, this was an exceptional read. I'll be recommending it to all my friends and it’s definitely going on my re-read list. To the author, bravo! I am eagerly looking forward to your future works. For a debut novel, this was a masterpiece.
November 1, 2025
Content: death of parent, car crash (both in past), no language or violence, kissing only (descriptive)
Genre/Tropes: Contemporary RomCom, forced proximity, small town, office romance
My thoughts: I picked this up originally because the main character’s name is Marissa, and it was just too perfect to pass up 😍 This was such a cute fall read! From pumpkin patch adventures to a community trunk-or-treat/fall festival and Thanksgiving and changing leaves—this has the perfect fall vibes. The end of the book moves into later months, but the vast majority of it takes place in Autumn.
I did not expect the emotional moments to hit me as hard as they did. I teared up at least 3 different times, which is unusual for me (especially in a romcom).
Some favorite moments/aspects:
🍁 Blind date in the corn maze
🍁 Meeting Nan and all of her comments 😂
🍁 Marissa meeting Scott’s family
🍁 Strong female friendships
🍁 First kiss under the stars
🍁 The purple lilac
🍁 Planning for London
🍁 All the texts and emails
🍁 Marissa’s return from London 😍
Genre/Tropes: Contemporary RomCom, forced proximity, small town, office romance
My thoughts: I picked this up originally because the main character’s name is Marissa, and it was just too perfect to pass up 😍 This was such a cute fall read! From pumpkin patch adventures to a community trunk-or-treat/fall festival and Thanksgiving and changing leaves—this has the perfect fall vibes. The end of the book moves into later months, but the vast majority of it takes place in Autumn.
I did not expect the emotional moments to hit me as hard as they did. I teared up at least 3 different times, which is unusual for me (especially in a romcom).
Some favorite moments/aspects:
🍁 Blind date in the corn maze
🍁 Meeting Nan and all of her comments 😂
🍁 Marissa meeting Scott’s family
🍁 Strong female friendships
🍁 First kiss under the stars
🍁 The purple lilac
🍁 Planning for London
🍁 All the texts and emails
🍁 Marissa’s return from London 😍
October 5, 2024
I’m between 2 and 3 stars. I loved the meet cute and the growth made by the characters. What I really didn’t love was the 3rd act breakup. I’m not a fan of those in general but they especially infuriate me when one character (this time Marissa) is so stubborn they don’t even listen. He clearly told her he wasn’t going to help the sale of the B&B and she kept blaming him in her head for the sale of the B&B. And then miraculously when she found out he paid for her trip, it all went away. I don’t know… it’s too much for me. I almost DNF’d it when she was being so infuriating but I finished it just to see and it was blah. Which is such a shame because it was setting up to be a great book and I loved the first 80%.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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