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And They Had a Great Fall: A Novel
For fans of Robinne Lee's The Idea of You, a debut contemporary romance about a celebrity and a single mother who push and pull against each other as they teeter between a carrying on a secret affair and living an authentic life.
If Jake Laurent is the "human equivalent of Friday," Kat Green is "Monday." Nevertheless, the two shared a secret (if casual) affair during the pandemic, and now, almost exactly one year later, they've reunited in Copenhagen, the "city of fairy tales." Only neither one of them is living a fairy tale.
Jake is a young actor who's cracking under the public pressure that comes with rising celebrity. Kat is a single mother at the top of her career who believes she's holding it all together but is barely living. Each one is a simple escape for the other—until the security Kat has worked so hard to build for her tiny family comes under threat, and Jake has to decide if he can keep Kat a secret even if it's at the expense of his own fame.
And They Had a Great Fall is the story of two people who are going through the motions in life—until they finally look inside themselves to figure out what it takes to find a happily ever after.
If Jake Laurent is the "human equivalent of Friday," Kat Green is "Monday." Nevertheless, the two shared a secret (if casual) affair during the pandemic, and now, almost exactly one year later, they've reunited in Copenhagen, the "city of fairy tales." Only neither one of them is living a fairy tale.
Jake is a young actor who's cracking under the public pressure that comes with rising celebrity. Kat is a single mother at the top of her career who believes she's holding it all together but is barely living. Each one is a simple escape for the other—until the security Kat has worked so hard to build for her tiny family comes under threat, and Jake has to decide if he can keep Kat a secret even if it's at the expense of his own fame.
And They Had a Great Fall is the story of two people who are going through the motions in life—until they finally look inside themselves to figure out what it takes to find a happily ever after.
- GenresRomance
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 11, 2025
16 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
March 2, 2025
ARC review • pub date 03.11.25
I had such a great time reading and taking my time with this book 🤍 two people at different stages of life : one a widowed mother with a big job to focus on, the other an actor struggling to perfect his current role. She ends up working remotely from Denmark where he is filming, and they’re able to spend a few days together.
The character development was 👌🏻and I loved watching their story unfold with all its ups and downs. Such a heartwarming story that will leave your eyes tearing up. This is one I will remember for quite awhile.
4.5⭐️
Thanks so much to @booksparks for choosing me to be a part of this #winterpopup ❄️ •I loved it!•
I had such a great time reading and taking my time with this book 🤍 two people at different stages of life : one a widowed mother with a big job to focus on, the other an actor struggling to perfect his current role. She ends up working remotely from Denmark where he is filming, and they’re able to spend a few days together.
The character development was 👌🏻and I loved watching their story unfold with all its ups and downs. Such a heartwarming story that will leave your eyes tearing up. This is one I will remember for quite awhile.
4.5⭐️
Thanks so much to @booksparks for choosing me to be a part of this #winterpopup ❄️ •I loved it!•
November 17, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and She Writes Press for the opportunity to read And They Had a Great Fall by Shelby Saville!
The story begins with Kat, a single mother living in New York on the fast track to becoming COO of a large tech company. One day an old friend from the days of the pandemic, Jake, randomly calls her while working on set as an actor in Copenhagen. He's going through a mental crisis and even though they haven't spoken in a year, he turns her life upside down by asking her to fly out to him. Both of them are faced with rekindled feelings mixed with new challenges of Jake's rising stardom.
This is Shelby Saville's debut novel and I think she knocked it out of the park with this story! I genuinely had a heart time putting this book down because I loved the style of writing, the characters, their banter, and so much more. I connected to Kat on so many levels but especially as a mother and the feelings of wanting to provide as a mother but also not miss out on their childhood. The references and extra tidbits of Copenhagen were fun to read about too!
There is an age gap between Kat and Jake but I feel like Shelby did a great job of showing a realistic representation of characters at different stages of life and having completely different lifestyles, without making it cheesy. I think the development of both characters was done very well. I think Jake's character could easily have turned into a spoiled, selfish celebrity. But with Shelby's writing, he became more than that and was multi-dimensional.
If you love a sweet romance that will leave you invested in the characters' journeys, then you'll definitely need to read this story!
The story begins with Kat, a single mother living in New York on the fast track to becoming COO of a large tech company. One day an old friend from the days of the pandemic, Jake, randomly calls her while working on set as an actor in Copenhagen. He's going through a mental crisis and even though they haven't spoken in a year, he turns her life upside down by asking her to fly out to him. Both of them are faced with rekindled feelings mixed with new challenges of Jake's rising stardom.
This is Shelby Saville's debut novel and I think she knocked it out of the park with this story! I genuinely had a heart time putting this book down because I loved the style of writing, the characters, their banter, and so much more. I connected to Kat on so many levels but especially as a mother and the feelings of wanting to provide as a mother but also not miss out on their childhood. The references and extra tidbits of Copenhagen were fun to read about too!
There is an age gap between Kat and Jake but I feel like Shelby did a great job of showing a realistic representation of characters at different stages of life and having completely different lifestyles, without making it cheesy. I think the development of both characters was done very well. I think Jake's character could easily have turned into a spoiled, selfish celebrity. But with Shelby's writing, he became more than that and was multi-dimensional.
If you love a sweet romance that will leave you invested in the characters' journeys, then you'll definitely need to read this story!
March 11, 2025
This is such a beautiful book! Kate is a widow and single mom. She doesn’t have the best work-life balance. Jake is the son of her neighbors, and a very famous actor. The two connected while Jake was visiting his parents during the pandemic. They lost touch when he started filming again.
After not speaking for so long, Jake calls Kate out of the blue, feeling completely lost with life, and asks her to fly to Copenhagen to be with him while shooting for a movie. Kate is on deck for a promotion if things are work play out correctly, but despite this, she rearranges her life to fly to Jake, where they reconnect and together decide what to prioritize in life.
✨ “Kate, please don’t run away because this is no longer easy.”
This book has some of my all time favorite tropes:
💫 celebrity romance
💫 second chance
💫 single parent
💫 widow
After not speaking for so long, Jake calls Kate out of the blue, feeling completely lost with life, and asks her to fly to Copenhagen to be with him while shooting for a movie. Kate is on deck for a promotion if things are work play out correctly, but despite this, she rearranges her life to fly to Jake, where they reconnect and together decide what to prioritize in life.
✨ “Kate, please don’t run away because this is no longer easy.”
This book has some of my all time favorite tropes:
💫 celebrity romance
💫 second chance
💫 single parent
💫 widow
April 26, 2025
The comparison to the Idea of You is way off base for this wonderful read from new author: Shelby Saville. Kat’s character in particular so accurately reflects the struggles that young women face in the professional workforce. Shelby also threw in her knowledge of marketing and media to make the job aspect of the plot very real. We also got the sense that Jake’s professional story was spot on. Yes this was a love story but it was more a story of personal growth for both characters. Frankly I didn’t even notice the age difference nor did it feel like age was their main issue. Both characters were well developed and very likable.
February 21, 2025
Thank you @booksparks for a copy of this book!
This was such a great love story. Jake and Kat really lived two different lives but once their lives came together, it was perfect. Kat was so busy with her corporate job as well as being a single mom. She worked so hard to give her daughter everything she would need. Kat was also grieving her husband, he was always on her mind. Jake was a famous actor currently filming a movie. He was having a tough time getting into character and called Kat to fly out to be with him even though they haven’t spoken in a very long time. Kat was in the height of her career getting ready for a huge launch of a new product while trying to get promoted. She was willing to fly out to see Jake anyway. I loved seeing their relationship blossom. I respected Kat for trying to keep her life private from the public eye to protect her daughter. Even though there was heartbreak for both of them, Kat really opened her eyes to the bigger picture of it all. The ending of this story had me tearing up. What a great story!
“Grief does weird things to people. One minute you’re pulling people closer, the next minute you’re pushing them away. Anything said in a haze of grief needs to have a short shelf life.”
This was such a great love story. Jake and Kat really lived two different lives but once their lives came together, it was perfect. Kat was so busy with her corporate job as well as being a single mom. She worked so hard to give her daughter everything she would need. Kat was also grieving her husband, he was always on her mind. Jake was a famous actor currently filming a movie. He was having a tough time getting into character and called Kat to fly out to be with him even though they haven’t spoken in a very long time. Kat was in the height of her career getting ready for a huge launch of a new product while trying to get promoted. She was willing to fly out to see Jake anyway. I loved seeing their relationship blossom. I respected Kat for trying to keep her life private from the public eye to protect her daughter. Even though there was heartbreak for both of them, Kat really opened her eyes to the bigger picture of it all. The ending of this story had me tearing up. What a great story!
“Grief does weird things to people. One minute you’re pulling people closer, the next minute you’re pushing them away. Anything said in a haze of grief needs to have a short shelf life.”
February 6, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and She Writes Press for sending me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~ Widow
~ Mental health support
~ second chance
~Age Gap
~Celebrity romance
~Pandemic romance
~Single Mom
“And to my favorite girl out there . . .” He dug into his pocket and held up a small object. The camera zoomed in on an orange Tootsie Pop. “Thanks for sending me with a good luck charm . . . It worked! I love you, sweetheart.”
“Kat’s tears were simply physical drops of joy.”
I loved this book! This is the first book I’ve read where the romance began during the pandemic, I love how relatable the book is to that time of life.
I enjoyed the growth of the characters from the beginning to the end. They both started out not knowing what or who they needed but in the end found each other again.
This book mad me laugh at times, and cry other times. The relationship with Kat and Linda after the fall out was my absolute favorite!
If you are looking for something more than your normal rom-com give this book a try.
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~ Widow
~ Mental health support
~ second chance
~Age Gap
~Celebrity romance
~Pandemic romance
~Single Mom
“And to my favorite girl out there . . .” He dug into his pocket and held up a small object. The camera zoomed in on an orange Tootsie Pop. “Thanks for sending me with a good luck charm . . . It worked! I love you, sweetheart.”
“Kat’s tears were simply physical drops of joy.”
I loved this book! This is the first book I’ve read where the romance began during the pandemic, I love how relatable the book is to that time of life.
I enjoyed the growth of the characters from the beginning to the end. They both started out not knowing what or who they needed but in the end found each other again.
This book mad me laugh at times, and cry other times. The relationship with Kat and Linda after the fall out was my absolute favorite!
If you are looking for something more than your normal rom-com give this book a try.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2025
Kat, a widow with a small child and a high powered corporate job bonds with her neighbors son during Covid. They go their separate ways afterwards but neither can shake the other. Jake, a-list actor, is having trouble connecting with his role and calls the first person he thinks of to help, Kat. She doesn’t hesitate to fly to Copenhagen to work on a major project at her company’s home base and help Jake. From there the love grows stronger but Kat is hesitant due to the high profile life Jake leads. This is a story about two people meant to be together that just have to learn how to make it work. I enjoyed the whole book and couldn’t put it down!
February 28, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, She Writes Press and Shelby Saville for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5⭐️ I liked this book but didn’t feel extremely invested in the characters and their relationship. I’m not sure if it was the writing itself, characters or lack of on page spice but I just wasn’t avoiding everyday life to finish this book like I often am.
The characters had some banter and reference their chemistry but also seemed to know so little about each others lives and had several instances of lack of communication and stubbornness that resulted in gaps in their relationship.
Both characters had flaws, trauma and insecurities and I wish it would have dove into how they repaired things. It seemed like such a huge jump from where they were at. To the convo in England. To 4 years later.
I’m a romance reader so I love a HEA but I was almost expecting them to find love with other people. Maybe it was the vague similarities to The Idea of You.
Tropes:
Love after loss
Reverse age gap
Celebrity
Single mom
Second chance or is it third chance?
3.5⭐️ I liked this book but didn’t feel extremely invested in the characters and their relationship. I’m not sure if it was the writing itself, characters or lack of on page spice but I just wasn’t avoiding everyday life to finish this book like I often am.
The characters had some banter and reference their chemistry but also seemed to know so little about each others lives and had several instances of lack of communication and stubbornness that resulted in gaps in their relationship.
Both characters had flaws, trauma and insecurities and I wish it would have dove into how they repaired things. It seemed like such a huge jump from where they were at. To the convo in England. To 4 years later.
I’m a romance reader so I love a HEA but I was almost expecting them to find love with other people. Maybe it was the vague similarities to The Idea of You.
Tropes:
Love after loss
Reverse age gap
Celebrity
Single mom
Second chance or is it third chance?
March 8, 2025
Flawed characters have much to learn about themselves and each other, but there is so much room for love.
Kat and Jake were characters I enjoyed reading about. They each have baggage, but something draws them to each other, especially in times of need. Kat is a widow trying to make her way in life without her husband and the father of her daughter. She is fortunate to have a village surrounding her, assisting her whenever the situation arises. Jake is an up-and-coming actor who tends to get in his own way. This is evident when he calls Kat in panic mode. However, this call sets off a renewed relationship and the chance to discover their capabilities.
This was a semi-spicy romance. There is one spicy scene; the rest were more subdued, which I appreciated. I enjoyed learning more about Kat and Jake and what makes them tick. Their interpersonal skills were sometimes rough around the edges, but being around each other allowed them to discover more about themselves and what they wanted from life.
As you can imagine, you aren't allowed privacy with someone famous. This was a huge sticking point for Kat, and she kept their friendship and blossoming romance under wraps until it wasn't. I was surprised at the actions of Jake's publicist. She would have been fired a long time ago!
Primarily set in Copenhagen, this love story defies age what others think. It is also about two people finding themselves through each other. An enjoyable read from a debut author.
We give it 4 paws up.
Kat and Jake were characters I enjoyed reading about. They each have baggage, but something draws them to each other, especially in times of need. Kat is a widow trying to make her way in life without her husband and the father of her daughter. She is fortunate to have a village surrounding her, assisting her whenever the situation arises. Jake is an up-and-coming actor who tends to get in his own way. This is evident when he calls Kat in panic mode. However, this call sets off a renewed relationship and the chance to discover their capabilities.
This was a semi-spicy romance. There is one spicy scene; the rest were more subdued, which I appreciated. I enjoyed learning more about Kat and Jake and what makes them tick. Their interpersonal skills were sometimes rough around the edges, but being around each other allowed them to discover more about themselves and what they wanted from life.
As you can imagine, you aren't allowed privacy with someone famous. This was a huge sticking point for Kat, and she kept their friendship and blossoming romance under wraps until it wasn't. I was surprised at the actions of Jake's publicist. She would have been fired a long time ago!
Primarily set in Copenhagen, this love story defies age what others think. It is also about two people finding themselves through each other. An enjoyable read from a debut author.
We give it 4 paws up.
February 17, 2025
Okay, look. I primarily read horror and thrillers. I like a weird puzzle to solve. Sometimes, however, I need a straightforward love story. "And They Had a Great Fall" from Shelby Saville is the latest to fill that need.
Kat is a single mother and widow. She's on the C-Suite track at her tech company job, often working 14, 15 hour days. Three years prior, her husband, Ben, died from cancer, and Kat wants to make sure that their daughter has the best life possible.
Jake is a movie star on the rise. He's young, he's handsome, he's famous. Jake is also the son of Kat's next-door neighbors. Despite the 8-year age difference, Kat and Jake connected during the pandemic and found they had the beginnings of a relationship.
Now, a year later, Jake calls Kat from Copenhagen in full meltdown mode. He doesn't know who he is or why he's having so much trouble with his current role. Kat is on the verge of the largest product launch of her career, which is leading to her much-desired promotion.
These are two people who are at turning points in life. Kat is working harder than ever, neglecting a work-life balance. Jake's rise to stardom is getting faster, and keeping his relationship with Kat a secret is starting to impinge on his fame. These two people are drawn to each other and are pulled apart by their self-interests.
---
Let's address the elephant in the room. Is this similar to "The Idea of You"? Sure, if you want to give into the older woman, younger man thing. But here's the thing: the age difference in this story is much less aggressive (8 years vs. 19 years). This is also, somehow, more realistic. A young widow focused on her career and family is easier to connect with than a wealthy gallery owner.
Shelby Saville develops flawed characters who grow realistically throughout this novel. The setting of Copenhagen and New York adds to the plot, as both cities add their character to the story. Each person is layered; it isn't just a young party boy and a career-focused woman. It's a man struggling with fame, isolated from his family and friends. It's a woman who is still grieving and wants to provide the best life for her daughter, no matter what it takes.
Now....who is going to play Jake in the movie....
Thanks to NetGalley, Shelby Saville, and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Kat is a single mother and widow. She's on the C-Suite track at her tech company job, often working 14, 15 hour days. Three years prior, her husband, Ben, died from cancer, and Kat wants to make sure that their daughter has the best life possible.
Jake is a movie star on the rise. He's young, he's handsome, he's famous. Jake is also the son of Kat's next-door neighbors. Despite the 8-year age difference, Kat and Jake connected during the pandemic and found they had the beginnings of a relationship.
Now, a year later, Jake calls Kat from Copenhagen in full meltdown mode. He doesn't know who he is or why he's having so much trouble with his current role. Kat is on the verge of the largest product launch of her career, which is leading to her much-desired promotion.
These are two people who are at turning points in life. Kat is working harder than ever, neglecting a work-life balance. Jake's rise to stardom is getting faster, and keeping his relationship with Kat a secret is starting to impinge on his fame. These two people are drawn to each other and are pulled apart by their self-interests.
---
Let's address the elephant in the room. Is this similar to "The Idea of You"? Sure, if you want to give into the older woman, younger man thing. But here's the thing: the age difference in this story is much less aggressive (8 years vs. 19 years). This is also, somehow, more realistic. A young widow focused on her career and family is easier to connect with than a wealthy gallery owner.
Shelby Saville develops flawed characters who grow realistically throughout this novel. The setting of Copenhagen and New York adds to the plot, as both cities add their character to the story. Each person is layered; it isn't just a young party boy and a career-focused woman. It's a man struggling with fame, isolated from his family and friends. It's a woman who is still grieving and wants to provide the best life for her daughter, no matter what it takes.
Now....who is going to play Jake in the movie....
Thanks to NetGalley, Shelby Saville, and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 26, 2025
This was a tender romance between a young widow and an actor. They had previously started a relationship that stalled. When they end up together in Copenhagen they reignite their connection. At times this story felt slow and I wanted a little more from the characters. The dialogue was well written, but maybe a touch dry. There was beauty in the two characters overcoming traumatic pasts and forming a future together.
April 1, 2025
Happy friday junior!
Thank you so much @BookSparks and @shelby_saville_author for allowing me to be a part of the #SpringPopUp book review tour of And They Had a Great Fall by Shelby Seville
Synopsis
If Jake Laurent is the “human equivalent of Friday,” Kat Green is “Monday.” Nevertheless, the two shared a secret (if casual) affair during the pandemic, and now, almost exactly one year later, they’ve reunited in Copenhagen, the “city of fairy tales.” Only neither one of them is living a fairy tale.
Jake is a young actor who’s cracking under the public pressure that comes with rising celebrity. Kat is a single mother at the top of her career who believes she’s holding it all together but is barely living. Each one is a simple escape for the other—until the security Kat has worked so hard to build for her tiny family comes under threat, and Jake has to decide if he can keep Kat a secret even if it’s at the expense of his own fame.
And They Had a Great Fall is the story of two people who are going through the motions in life—until they finally look inside themselves to figure out what it takes to find a happily ever after.
My Review
When I saw that this story was being compared to Robinne Lee’s The Idea of You, I knew I needed to get my hands on it immediately. I honestly, can’t believe this is a debut! Brava Shelby Saville, I read this one in one sitting!
There is strong character development that beautifully captures what happens when two people are in different places in their lives. Both characters are flawed and at turning points in their lives and I was so invested in what happened to them. I really, really loved Kat’s character and how she navigates life after loss with a small child.
If you are a fan of celebrity romance, I think you’ll enjoy this one!
Thank you so much @BookSparks and @shelby_saville_author for allowing me to be a part of the #SpringPopUp book review tour of And They Had a Great Fall by Shelby Seville
Synopsis
If Jake Laurent is the “human equivalent of Friday,” Kat Green is “Monday.” Nevertheless, the two shared a secret (if casual) affair during the pandemic, and now, almost exactly one year later, they’ve reunited in Copenhagen, the “city of fairy tales.” Only neither one of them is living a fairy tale.
Jake is a young actor who’s cracking under the public pressure that comes with rising celebrity. Kat is a single mother at the top of her career who believes she’s holding it all together but is barely living. Each one is a simple escape for the other—until the security Kat has worked so hard to build for her tiny family comes under threat, and Jake has to decide if he can keep Kat a secret even if it’s at the expense of his own fame.
And They Had a Great Fall is the story of two people who are going through the motions in life—until they finally look inside themselves to figure out what it takes to find a happily ever after.
My Review
When I saw that this story was being compared to Robinne Lee’s The Idea of You, I knew I needed to get my hands on it immediately. I honestly, can’t believe this is a debut! Brava Shelby Saville, I read this one in one sitting!
There is strong character development that beautifully captures what happens when two people are in different places in their lives. Both characters are flawed and at turning points in their lives and I was so invested in what happened to them. I really, really loved Kat’s character and how she navigates life after loss with a small child.
If you are a fan of celebrity romance, I think you’ll enjoy this one!
April 13, 2025
I love reading! However, I had gotten away from reading because you know…life. But I picked up this book and read it in nearly one sitting. It’s an easy read and the author does a great job building the characters. My investment in them was real and the storyline kept me interested. I’m pretty sad I’m done with the book. It was a great read and I’m looking forward to Shelby Saville’s next piece of work!
April 17, 2025
Loved this booked. The characters are beautifully flawed, and Shelby Saville tells their story in a way that breaks and warms your heart all at once.
April 16, 2025
A fun, light-hearted read; a little spicy, and the kind of chemistry you cheer for. Great for a summer read—and I kept imagining who would play Kat and Jake in a movie… just sayin’…
April 13, 2025
A romantic reunion of Kat, a high powered widow and mother of a young daughter and Jake, a younger man and a celebrity. I loved experiencing the emotional side of second chances taken in haste and the consequences of being with a celebrity. This was an exciting and enjoyable read. Well done, Shelby Saville!
February 23, 2025
This is a fun, entertaining read. Jake and Kat are interesting, intriguing, complex, flawed, complicated, strong, wounded, entertaining characters. I enjoyed their romance and the path it took. The secondary characters added to the fabric of the story and my enjoyment. The story is easy to read and get into.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 9, 2025
This was all the right things: warm, fuzzy, heartbreaking AND heartwarming, intimate, inspiring. I had such a blast reading this.
Special shoutout to the author and my VP for the recommendation and to supporting women in the advertising industry!!
Special shoutout to the author and my VP for the recommendation and to supporting women in the advertising industry!!
April 7, 2025
I devoured this book - started it on a Saturday night before bed and finished it by Sunday afternoon! This is not my typical genre so I wasn't sure how I'd feel about it and at first was a little doubting about an actor main character - seemed trite. But before I knew it, I was lost in the story and the emotions - had to wipe away tears a few times! Great fast read that goes deep without being depressing.
February 15, 2025
Thank you to BookSparks for the #gifted finished copy! And They Had a Great Fall is the perfect blend of angst, chemistry, and heartfelt emotion—a reverse age-gap romance where he falls first, and oh, does he fall hard. If The Idea of You walked, And They Had a Great Fall ran with the celebrity-normal person trope, delivering a love story that is equal parts steamy and deeply emotional.
Told in dual POV, we get both Jake’s swoony, determined pursuit and the internal tug-of-war that makes this relationship feel so authentic. If you’re picturing Timothée Chalamet as Jake? Same. The open-door spice is deliciously balanced with real vulnerability, making their connection feel electric yet grounded.
With its mix of glamour, self-discovery, and off-the-charts tension, this is a must-read for fans of unconventional love stories. Out March 11!
Told in dual POV, we get both Jake’s swoony, determined pursuit and the internal tug-of-war that makes this relationship feel so authentic. If you’re picturing Timothée Chalamet as Jake? Same. The open-door spice is deliciously balanced with real vulnerability, making their connection feel electric yet grounded.
With its mix of glamour, self-discovery, and off-the-charts tension, this is a must-read for fans of unconventional love stories. Out March 11!
April 1, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks to @netgalley, @shewritespress and @shelby_saville_author for the opportunity to read the ARC of And They Had a Great Fall.
The book is a sweet story of normie Kat and famous actor Jake. They became friends and buddies during the pandemic. Now, both in Copenhagen for work and whim, to discover if these feelings are for real.
Thanks to @netgalley, @shewritespress and @shelby_saville_author for the opportunity to read the ARC of And They Had a Great Fall.
The book is a sweet story of normie Kat and famous actor Jake. They became friends and buddies during the pandemic. Now, both in Copenhagen for work and whim, to discover if these feelings are for real.
February 20, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!
This was such a sweet reverse age gap story. The quick origin story was just enough in the beginning and having more details thrown in as they were relevant to their current story was a great way to keep going back to the second chance trope, Kat and Jake were POLAR opposites and I enjoyed seeing them connect. I loved that Jake made a point to remember small things about Kat and even about Kat's daughter, like the orange tootsie pop.
The only problem I had with the story was the excess details of Kat's job that weren't necessary to the story, those parts ended up being skimmed.
This was such a sweet reverse age gap story. The quick origin story was just enough in the beginning and having more details thrown in as they were relevant to their current story was a great way to keep going back to the second chance trope, Kat and Jake were POLAR opposites and I enjoyed seeing them connect. I loved that Jake made a point to remember small things about Kat and even about Kat's daughter, like the orange tootsie pop.
The only problem I had with the story was the excess details of Kat's job that weren't necessary to the story, those parts ended up being skimmed.
March 29, 2025
A wonderful story that quickly had me hooked. Jake and Kat are lovable, engaging yet flawed characters and I quickly became invested in their story. It’s a beautiful depiction of how complicated love and life can be, but if we are willing to be vulnerable there’s also a lot of beauty!
January 12, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Book tropes:
- Age Gap (he's the youngest)
- Celebrity romance
- Pandemic fling
- Opposites attract
First I would like to say I really liked the writing. It had depth, and there were moments where the emotions really hit. That said, I found some of the dialogue and descriptions a bit unoriginal. So while the writing was good, it didn’t feel entirely fresh.
Now, about the story—it dragged in places. A lot of time was spent talking about their work, like Jake’s life on set and Kat’s career. I get that we need to know the characters, but it felt excessive. Those parts made the book feel longer than it needed to be, almost like filler.
What I did enjoy, though, was the emotional depth of the characters. Jake’s struggles with fame, mental health, and addiction added a lot of complexity, and Kat’s grief over losing her husband and her guilt about moving on were handled beautifully. These heavier themes—grief, mental health, guilt—were definitely the highlights for me. Despite their differences in age, personality, and lifestyle, Jake and Kat’s connection felt real and believable. I liked how their personalities complemented each other, and their chemistry really came through in their dialogue.
The setting in Copenhagen was another strong point. It added a unique atmosphere to the story that I really enjoyed.
However, I wasn’t happy with the ending. After a big fight where Jake messed up by publishing their story without Kat’s consent, which at the same time was a already very predictable plot twist, they broke up, and she avoided him for six months. Then, out of nowhere, she texted him, and they had a short conversation that felt too rushed and too easy. I wanted to see them work through their issues together, not just skip ahead to four years later where everything is magically perfect. Jake hurt her, and while it’s clear he worked on himself, I feel like he needed to grovel more. That part of the resolution felt too convenient and unsatisfying.
Overall, the book had its moments. I liked the emotional depth and the characters’ individual struggles, but the pacing, excessive details about their jobs, and the rushed ending held it back for me. I’m glad they got their happy ending, but I wish it had been more earned.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Book tropes:
- Age Gap (he's the youngest)
- Celebrity romance
- Pandemic fling
- Opposites attract
First I would like to say I really liked the writing. It had depth, and there were moments where the emotions really hit. That said, I found some of the dialogue and descriptions a bit unoriginal. So while the writing was good, it didn’t feel entirely fresh.
Now, about the story—it dragged in places. A lot of time was spent talking about their work, like Jake’s life on set and Kat’s career. I get that we need to know the characters, but it felt excessive. Those parts made the book feel longer than it needed to be, almost like filler.
What I did enjoy, though, was the emotional depth of the characters. Jake’s struggles with fame, mental health, and addiction added a lot of complexity, and Kat’s grief over losing her husband and her guilt about moving on were handled beautifully. These heavier themes—grief, mental health, guilt—were definitely the highlights for me. Despite their differences in age, personality, and lifestyle, Jake and Kat’s connection felt real and believable. I liked how their personalities complemented each other, and their chemistry really came through in their dialogue.
The setting in Copenhagen was another strong point. It added a unique atmosphere to the story that I really enjoyed.
However, I wasn’t happy with the ending. After a big fight where Jake messed up by publishing their story without Kat’s consent, which at the same time was a already very predictable plot twist, they broke up, and she avoided him for six months. Then, out of nowhere, she texted him, and they had a short conversation that felt too rushed and too easy. I wanted to see them work through their issues together, not just skip ahead to four years later where everything is magically perfect. Jake hurt her, and while it’s clear he worked on himself, I feel like he needed to grovel more. That part of the resolution felt too convenient and unsatisfying.
Overall, the book had its moments. I liked the emotional depth and the characters’ individual struggles, but the pacing, excessive details about their jobs, and the rushed ending held it back for me. I’m glad they got their happy ending, but I wish it had been more earned.
March 7, 2025
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)
And They Had a Great Fall really resonated with me. I felt inspired by Kat and her zest to do her best, delicately balancing motherhood and career. Her backstory really fits her characterization; she’s lost loved ones who made her feel secure and safe, and in an effort to protect herself and her daughter’s well-being, she aims for perfection in all areas, no matter the cost.
Jake’s view is entirely different. He’s spent the majority of his life the center of attention, succeeding with breaking into the actor’s realm with little to no trouble. Showcasing his personality and stepping into character has never been an issue for him, until Copenhagen. There, finding the voice and motivation for the character he’s trying hard to portray feels like it’s an unachievable task, leading into the constant pressure and demand his job entails.
Kat doesn’t think that Jake can ever understand her viewpoint, and Jake just wants Kat to let him in a little. For so long, they’ve seen each other as a means to an end in the moment, but Jake wants more, and Kat doesn’t want to admit that she wants that too. It was a constant juxtaposition that made sense and didn’t delineate from the truth behind this struggling couple: they both want the freedom to let go, but don’t know how they can get there.
I liked how despite their fears, they are a much-needed support for one another. Despite their differences, I could see the potential there. It was hard not to relate with Kat, considering I’m a mother myself and want to do as much as I can for my children, but she’s learning through her evolving relationship with Jake that it’s okay to trust again and make herself a priority, too. Both steps can take time. I loved getting to see the changes both characters experience as they grow together and separately as individuals, trying to navigate a really torrential environment that isn’t always kind to the people within it. And They Had a Great Fall was a sweet, eye-opening and at times, an inspiring experience, worthy of the five-stars I’ve given it!
And They Had a Great Fall really resonated with me. I felt inspired by Kat and her zest to do her best, delicately balancing motherhood and career. Her backstory really fits her characterization; she’s lost loved ones who made her feel secure and safe, and in an effort to protect herself and her daughter’s well-being, she aims for perfection in all areas, no matter the cost.
Jake’s view is entirely different. He’s spent the majority of his life the center of attention, succeeding with breaking into the actor’s realm with little to no trouble. Showcasing his personality and stepping into character has never been an issue for him, until Copenhagen. There, finding the voice and motivation for the character he’s trying hard to portray feels like it’s an unachievable task, leading into the constant pressure and demand his job entails.
Kat doesn’t think that Jake can ever understand her viewpoint, and Jake just wants Kat to let him in a little. For so long, they’ve seen each other as a means to an end in the moment, but Jake wants more, and Kat doesn’t want to admit that she wants that too. It was a constant juxtaposition that made sense and didn’t delineate from the truth behind this struggling couple: they both want the freedom to let go, but don’t know how they can get there.
I liked how despite their fears, they are a much-needed support for one another. Despite their differences, I could see the potential there. It was hard not to relate with Kat, considering I’m a mother myself and want to do as much as I can for my children, but she’s learning through her evolving relationship with Jake that it’s okay to trust again and make herself a priority, too. Both steps can take time. I loved getting to see the changes both characters experience as they grow together and separately as individuals, trying to navigate a really torrential environment that isn’t always kind to the people within it. And They Had a Great Fall was a sweet, eye-opening and at times, an inspiring experience, worthy of the five-stars I’ve given it!
March 11, 2025
This was adorable and made me cry real tears. Full review is up on http://instagram.com/chelseahudsonreads
November 17, 2024
Kat Green, a single mother from NYC, has big dreams and her biggest dream is providing an amazing life for her Daughter, Becca. After losing her Husband to Cancer three years ago, she feels the immense pressure of providing the best of everything for Becca. But when Kat receives a phone call from her old friend Jake, her life is suddenly turned upside-down. Jake is eight years younger, a celebrity, and she pushed him away almost a year ago. Suddenly, Kat finds herself traveling to Denmark to solidify a huge career promotion and face the relationship she wanted, but left behind. Does Jake still have feelings for her? Does she feel the same? What about her career?
And They Had a Great Fall is a solid debut by Shelby Saville. Being a big fan of The Idea of You, I jumped to request this book after a comparison was made in the synopsis. I do think this one was a bit better being the age gap was quite a bit less. I love TIOY, but that age gap is a little much for me ☺️
Both Kat & Jake have amazing character development and I enjoyed experiencing the ups and downs of their relationship. I really felt myself getting attached to both of them and rooting for them to work out! I also loved the Denmark & NYC backdrops. Shelby is a fantastic writer and I hope to read more from her in the future!
Thank you She Writes Press and NetGalley for gifting me an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
And They Had a Great Fall is a solid debut by Shelby Saville. Being a big fan of The Idea of You, I jumped to request this book after a comparison was made in the synopsis. I do think this one was a bit better being the age gap was quite a bit less. I love TIOY, but that age gap is a little much for me ☺️
Both Kat & Jake have amazing character development and I enjoyed experiencing the ups and downs of their relationship. I really felt myself getting attached to both of them and rooting for them to work out! I also loved the Denmark & NYC backdrops. Shelby is a fantastic writer and I hope to read more from her in the future!
Thank you She Writes Press and NetGalley for gifting me an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
November 16, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC! Definitely similar to The Idea of You - I think this one feels marginally better because the age difference is less pronounced.
I liked Kat as a character, along with Emily. I think Jake had growing up to do but it was appropriate as he was young and naive and in his own bubble. I kind of wanted more Ben but I get it.
I think the story was fine, the plot was cute and their moments of learning to be together were cute, but I couldn’t truly get immersed in the whole thing. I would’ve loved a prologue or flashbacks where we’re introduced to Jake and Kat when they were getting close, so we could see the budding and blossoming chemistry. I think being dropped into an existing “situationship” didn’t give me the same depth of connection.
I thought I would give the trope another chance, but I think I just need to stay away because I don’t think it’s my cup of tea. 4/5 stars objectively, personally closer to a 3/5.
I liked Kat as a character, along with Emily. I think Jake had growing up to do but it was appropriate as he was young and naive and in his own bubble. I kind of wanted more Ben but I get it.
I think the story was fine, the plot was cute and their moments of learning to be together were cute, but I couldn’t truly get immersed in the whole thing. I would’ve loved a prologue or flashbacks where we’re introduced to Jake and Kat when they were getting close, so we could see the budding and blossoming chemistry. I think being dropped into an existing “situationship” didn’t give me the same depth of connection.
I thought I would give the trope another chance, but I think I just need to stay away because I don’t think it’s my cup of tea. 4/5 stars objectively, personally closer to a 3/5.
February 14, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and She Writes Press for providing this ARC.
The storyline was good, a love story between a twenty five year old famous actor and a thirty three year old single mom. I found that the second half of the book was better, with the emotion building from how the main characters struggled to make their relationship work. However, the ending was a bit rushed. When they parted ways, we didn’t get to know how Jake overcame the heartbreak and hadn’t fallen back to his dark period of partying and drug.
My rating : 3,5 stars.
The storyline was good, a love story between a twenty five year old famous actor and a thirty three year old single mom. I found that the second half of the book was better, with the emotion building from how the main characters struggled to make their relationship work. However, the ending was a bit rushed. When they parted ways, we didn’t get to know how Jake overcame the heartbreak and hadn’t fallen back to his dark period of partying and drug.
My rating : 3,5 stars.
December 8, 2024
And They Had a Great Fall is a sweet romance by Shelby Saville. In this story, single mom, Kat and famous actor, Jake take us with them on their journey of the love they have for each other and the obstacles they encounter. Kat and Jake are both characters you’ll find yourself invested in. If you liked The Idea of You by Robinne Lee, you’ll enjoy this one, as well. Thank you to NetGalley and to She Writes Press for this ARC. I’m grateful for the opportunity.
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