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Blackstone Falls #4
Quietly Falling
Home is where your heart is.
Too bad I locked mine away a long time ago.
A grown man should be able to cope with the trauma of his past - but some scars run too deep to forget.
Too deep to move on from.
And sometimes you’re forced to face that trauma head on with a blonde haired beauty in the middle of Tennessee.
It should have been a simple trip.
A favor.
But when icy roads send us swerving across the highway, I’m thrust back to one of the most horrific moments of my life.
And I can’t escape the memories.
It’s not until Ella Crane lands in my lap with her lips pressed to mine that I’m able to breathe again.
But now I have a new problem.
Because I don’t want to let her go.
It looks like fate is on my side when an unexpected detour lands us in a cabin in the woods, and more than just sparks start to fly.
It’s everything I’ve ever wanted - she’s everything I’ve ever wanted.
But one phone call - one memory - is all it takes to send my life into a tailspin.
Because a man like me can’t outrun his past for long.
Not even when he’s quietly falling for the one.
Too bad I locked mine away a long time ago.
A grown man should be able to cope with the trauma of his past - but some scars run too deep to forget.
Too deep to move on from.
And sometimes you’re forced to face that trauma head on with a blonde haired beauty in the middle of Tennessee.
It should have been a simple trip.
A favor.
But when icy roads send us swerving across the highway, I’m thrust back to one of the most horrific moments of my life.
And I can’t escape the memories.
It’s not until Ella Crane lands in my lap with her lips pressed to mine that I’m able to breathe again.
But now I have a new problem.
Because I don’t want to let her go.
It looks like fate is on my side when an unexpected detour lands us in a cabin in the woods, and more than just sparks start to fly.
It’s everything I’ve ever wanted - she’s everything I’ve ever wanted.
But one phone call - one memory - is all it takes to send my life into a tailspin.
Because a man like me can’t outrun his past for long.
Not even when he’s quietly falling for the one.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2025
22 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Alexandra Hale
32 books499 followersAlexandra Hale is a small town girl living with her family in Upstate New York. She routinely runs on caffeine, dry shampoo and thrives on procrastination.
A romance lover and reading enthusiast, Alexandra finally began putting pen to paper shortly after graduating college. An unobtainable dream has slowly become a reality with the love and support of her friends and family and the romance community.
She currently writes steamy, small town romance with a dash of lighthearted fun and happily ever afters that will make you swoon.
A romance lover and reading enthusiast, Alexandra finally began putting pen to paper shortly after graduating college. An unobtainable dream has slowly become a reality with the love and support of her friends and family and the romance community.
She currently writes steamy, small town romance with a dash of lighthearted fun and happily ever afters that will make you swoon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
May 24, 2025
A beautiful love story of a journey to heal a soul.
This is the first book I’ve read by Alexandra Hale and it was wonderful, perfect pacing wonderful caricature building. Would recommend picking this one up for sure!
This is the first book I’ve read by Alexandra Hale and it was wonderful, perfect pacing wonderful caricature building. Would recommend picking this one up for sure!
May 21, 2025
ARC REVIEW
4⭐️
2🌶
Oh my goodness, I'm obsessed with Bodhi & Ella. This book made me feel ALL the feels! The connection between them was all consuming and I loved seeing Bodhi open himself up to love and get his happily ever after.
Ella was the perfect fmc for him. She was all sunshine and happiness and loves him with everything she has. They are the definition of soulmates.
The found family aspect of this was fantastic. They all really rallied about Bodhi and supported him when he needed it most.
Tropes:
🩷 Small Town
🩷 Forced Proximity
🩷 Virgin Hero
🩷 Grumpy/Sunshine
🩷 Found Family
🩷 Road Trip
4⭐️
2🌶
Oh my goodness, I'm obsessed with Bodhi & Ella. This book made me feel ALL the feels! The connection between them was all consuming and I loved seeing Bodhi open himself up to love and get his happily ever after.
Ella was the perfect fmc for him. She was all sunshine and happiness and loves him with everything she has. They are the definition of soulmates.
The found family aspect of this was fantastic. They all really rallied about Bodhi and supported him when he needed it most.
Tropes:
🩷 Small Town
🩷 Forced Proximity
🩷 Virgin Hero
🩷 Grumpy/Sunshine
🩷 Found Family
🩷 Road Trip
May 29, 2025
Tropes:
🚗 Road Trip
😠/😃 Grumpy x Sunshine
🫶🏻Found Family
💝 Virgin Hero
😅Forced Proximity
🏠 Small Town
🌶️ Spicy and Swoony
I just love a sweet romance once in a while! The butterflies in the stomach, the meet cutes, the awkward first moments, and the steamy first kisses. Quietly Falling is a standalone novel that is part of an interconnected series, that includes the grumpy vs sunshine trope. I have not read the previous books, but I was able to keep up with the story. This is also a first for me, as I have never read a romance involving a road trip, unless you count the journeys made in fantasy novels.
The author wrote an emotional and deep MMC that is clearly working through his own issues since he has his guard up. The title for this book is perfect for this part of the story, as the MMC is not the more chatty of the two and keeps a lot inside, but slowly begins to let the FMC in. I feel that the sunshine FMC that the author wrote was the perfect person for the MMC because it allowed him to eventually open up and realize it was okay to be vulnerable. The spice was nicely placed, and the characters definitely had the chemistry for it. I also love and appreciate a good found family story, and this definitely provided that for me. This book ends on a sweet happily ever after that left me feeling complete and void of a hangover!
🚗 Road Trip
😠/😃 Grumpy x Sunshine
🫶🏻Found Family
💝 Virgin Hero
😅Forced Proximity
🏠 Small Town
🌶️ Spicy and Swoony
I just love a sweet romance once in a while! The butterflies in the stomach, the meet cutes, the awkward first moments, and the steamy first kisses. Quietly Falling is a standalone novel that is part of an interconnected series, that includes the grumpy vs sunshine trope. I have not read the previous books, but I was able to keep up with the story. This is also a first for me, as I have never read a romance involving a road trip, unless you count the journeys made in fantasy novels.
The author wrote an emotional and deep MMC that is clearly working through his own issues since he has his guard up. The title for this book is perfect for this part of the story, as the MMC is not the more chatty of the two and keeps a lot inside, but slowly begins to let the FMC in. I feel that the sunshine FMC that the author wrote was the perfect person for the MMC because it allowed him to eventually open up and realize it was okay to be vulnerable. The spice was nicely placed, and the characters definitely had the chemistry for it. I also love and appreciate a good found family story, and this definitely provided that for me. This book ends on a sweet happily ever after that left me feeling complete and void of a hangover!
May 22, 2025
This book was my least favorite in the series, but it was okay. This book was so tragic that for me, as good as it was, it took away from my enjoyment of the found happiness. Before reading, I think I was prepared for the abuse and death of a foster child, which was bad enough, but her going missing was an aspect that was a bit much for me. I’m not a fan of anything missing persons -especially children, so I struggled to move past it. Oddly enough, I think I shed more tears reading Mason’s book than I did this; both were very emotional books, but for different reasons. I’m happy Bodhi got his much deserved HEA and I really enjoyed the overlap with the Clementine Creek characters. Ella was a wonderful character and she and Bodhi were perfect for each other. All of the characters were great and fit so well into this book, but yeah, it’s a tragic story. This book did made me excited to read about Arden and her baby daddy, and made me wonder if there will be a spinoff with Ella’s family in NC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
- Small Town
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Road Trip
- Virgin Hero
- Force Proximity
- Found Family
Review:
I knew Bohdi's story would destroy me, and Quietly Falling, the fourth book in the Blackstone Falls Series, did just that. This book has left an unforgettable impression on my heart, and I can confidently say it's not only my favorite book in the series but also my favorite Alexandra Hale book to date.
Bohdi's traumatic past is expertly woven throughout the narrative, and my heart broke for him repeatedly. This book is a raw, emotional exploration of healing, redemption, and the power of found family. Bohdi's connection with Ella is pure, emotional, and raw, and I admired Ella's patience, determination, and kindness as she helped Bohdi navigate his emotions.
One of the standout aspects of this book is the strong found family trope. The way the characters come together to support Bohdi, offering him a sense of safety and security, is truly beautiful. Bohdi's growth throughout the book is remarkable, and I loved watching him heal and find hope.
While Quietly Falling is an emotionally charged read, Alexandra Hale expertly balances the heavy moments with lightheartedness, making this book an unforgettable reading experience. I highly recommend it to fans of small-town romances, especially those who love a strong found family theme. Be prepared to have your heart strings pulled, but trust that the journey will be worth it.
𝗖𝗪: 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘂𝗺𝗮 (𝗽𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗲, 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗻𝗲𝗴𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁), 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 (𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱), 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘶𝘯𝘢 𝘓𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘈𝘭𝘦𝘹𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘢 𝘏𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
- Small Town
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- Road Trip
- Virgin Hero
- Force Proximity
- Found Family
Review:
I knew Bohdi's story would destroy me, and Quietly Falling, the fourth book in the Blackstone Falls Series, did just that. This book has left an unforgettable impression on my heart, and I can confidently say it's not only my favorite book in the series but also my favorite Alexandra Hale book to date.
Bohdi's traumatic past is expertly woven throughout the narrative, and my heart broke for him repeatedly. This book is a raw, emotional exploration of healing, redemption, and the power of found family. Bohdi's connection with Ella is pure, emotional, and raw, and I admired Ella's patience, determination, and kindness as she helped Bohdi navigate his emotions.
One of the standout aspects of this book is the strong found family trope. The way the characters come together to support Bohdi, offering him a sense of safety and security, is truly beautiful. Bohdi's growth throughout the book is remarkable, and I loved watching him heal and find hope.
While Quietly Falling is an emotionally charged read, Alexandra Hale expertly balances the heavy moments with lightheartedness, making this book an unforgettable reading experience. I highly recommend it to fans of small-town romances, especially those who love a strong found family theme. Be prepared to have your heart strings pulled, but trust that the journey will be worth it.
𝗖𝗪: 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘂𝗺𝗮 (𝗽𝗵𝘆𝘀𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗲, 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗻𝗲𝗴𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁), 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘀𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 (𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱), 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘶𝘯𝘢 𝘓𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘈𝘭𝘦𝘹𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘢 𝘏𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
May 21, 2025
Damn, Alexandra had me all up in my feels with this one.
As much as I've loved the other couples in the Blackstone Falls series, I think Bodhi and Ella have to be my favourite. The connection and raw emotion these two had were something beautiful to read, and I couldn't get enough of it. Bodhi and Ella were real, and I'm so glad that Bodhi finally found his peace.
I really liked meeting Ella's extended family, too! They seemed like a lot of fun, and she had such a great relationship with all of her cousins. Those moments were a welcome lightness to the book and helped show a bit of a different side to Bodhi. What a fun little detour (but did they pick up the counters???)
Blackstone Falls has so many amazing characters and storylines, I don't think I'll ever get enough of seeing everyone together and the holdouts meeting their one and only.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to go cry because this book has my heart in tiny pieces!
As much as I've loved the other couples in the Blackstone Falls series, I think Bodhi and Ella have to be my favourite. The connection and raw emotion these two had were something beautiful to read, and I couldn't get enough of it. Bodhi and Ella were real, and I'm so glad that Bodhi finally found his peace.
I really liked meeting Ella's extended family, too! They seemed like a lot of fun, and she had such a great relationship with all of her cousins. Those moments were a welcome lightness to the book and helped show a bit of a different side to Bodhi. What a fun little detour (but did they pick up the counters???)
Blackstone Falls has so many amazing characters and storylines, I don't think I'll ever get enough of seeing everyone together and the holdouts meeting their one and only.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to go cry because this book has my heart in tiny pieces!
May 22, 2025
Such A Beautiful Story
This man had quite the past that messed with his head and his heart. It took landing in Blackstone Falls to start the healing process but it took the BF & Clementine Creek crews to fully let him in to make the path to healing solidify for him.
Then came Ella. Opening his heart to her allowed the walk on the healing path so much easier. In the end he got his family by blood and his family by love and support. Both equally important to him.
Ella is an epic sweetheart who had an amazing childhood, a brother cousin whom she epically adores, and a supportive family to this day.
She walked into his heart and took up permanent residence.
What a wonderful pair they make 🥰
This man had quite the past that messed with his head and his heart. It took landing in Blackstone Falls to start the healing process but it took the BF & Clementine Creek crews to fully let him in to make the path to healing solidify for him.
Then came Ella. Opening his heart to her allowed the walk on the healing path so much easier. In the end he got his family by blood and his family by love and support. Both equally important to him.
Ella is an epic sweetheart who had an amazing childhood, a brother cousin whom she epically adores, and a supportive family to this day.
She walked into his heart and took up permanent residence.
What a wonderful pair they make 🥰
May 26, 2025
ARC Review
This was my first book that I have read by Alexandra Hale I wasn’t quite sure what to expect at first but I loved this book.
Ella & Bodhi story was good and I enjoyed reading it. Bodhi was a grumpy sunshine also a virgin and he had a crush on Ella but wasn’t quite sure how to ask her out or anything like that.
They have to travel to a place to pick up an item for someone and along the way of there travels Ella gets a call from her cousin that he was home on leave from the military and he would only be there for a short time so Bodhi and Ella take a pit stop to go see him and that is where there love for each other really kicked in. They had just enough chemistry and spice between them.
Writing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was my first book that I have read by Alexandra Hale I wasn’t quite sure what to expect at first but I loved this book.
Ella & Bodhi story was good and I enjoyed reading it. Bodhi was a grumpy sunshine also a virgin and he had a crush on Ella but wasn’t quite sure how to ask her out or anything like that.
They have to travel to a place to pick up an item for someone and along the way of there travels Ella gets a call from her cousin that he was home on leave from the military and he would only be there for a short time so Bodhi and Ella take a pit stop to go see him and that is where there love for each other really kicked in. They had just enough chemistry and spice between them.
Writing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 14, 2025
4.5 stars. Quick, sweet, lighthearted but emotional. Our MMC struggles with his past and doesn’t want to get too attached to anyone and our FMC is determined, kind, patient, the perfect match. This was such a cute read. I haven’t read this author before but I liked their writing style, flow of the story and although it was insta-lovey it was ridiculous like some others I haven’t read. This story was very lighthearted but it did have challenging and emotional moments that lead to growth and overcoming internal struggles. I definitely recommend reading this and would read more from this author.
May 26, 2025
“Nothing in my life has ever felt this good…this indulgent.” - Mason
“You make me want to burn down the whole damn world for having stolen so much of the joy from your life.” - Ella
We have all read where the MMC would burn down the world for the FMC but for Ella and Bodhi it is the complete opposite and I could not have loved her fierce protectiveness of him more!
Bodhi has been a side character for so many books spanning two series. The anticipation was high and oh my if this man’s story doesn’t just hit hard and make you feel all the feels. It takes the whirlwind that is Ella to pull him out of his shell and finally let love in!
Ella is the bubbly to Bodhi’s broody, a big ball of happy energy to his quiet and reserved! She could not be any more perfect for him if she tried. He finally gets out of his head with her around. She is so easy for him to talk to and open up with.
It takes a hot minute but Bodhi finally sees his worth and it is all thanks to Ella and a little meddling from Rhea and Sorren! Ella helps him see that he has finally put down roots in Tennessee and made a home! With her by his side he is able to shit the door on his past and build a future!
Alexandra Hale gives her readers another story full of love. She has created this huge interconnected found family over two series. Quietly Falling is a tad heavier on the subject matter but she makes it all worth it with Bodhi and Ella’s HEA!
“You make me want to burn down the whole damn world for having stolen so much of the joy from your life.” - Ella
We have all read where the MMC would burn down the world for the FMC but for Ella and Bodhi it is the complete opposite and I could not have loved her fierce protectiveness of him more!
Bodhi has been a side character for so many books spanning two series. The anticipation was high and oh my if this man’s story doesn’t just hit hard and make you feel all the feels. It takes the whirlwind that is Ella to pull him out of his shell and finally let love in!
Ella is the bubbly to Bodhi’s broody, a big ball of happy energy to his quiet and reserved! She could not be any more perfect for him if she tried. He finally gets out of his head with her around. She is so easy for him to talk to and open up with.
It takes a hot minute but Bodhi finally sees his worth and it is all thanks to Ella and a little meddling from Rhea and Sorren! Ella helps him see that he has finally put down roots in Tennessee and made a home! With her by his side he is able to shit the door on his past and build a future!
Alexandra Hale gives her readers another story full of love. She has created this huge interconnected found family over two series. Quietly Falling is a tad heavier on the subject matter but she makes it all worth it with Bodhi and Ella’s HEA!
June 17, 2025
Ella and Bodhi’s story is wonderful, heartbreaking, emotional, beautifully written by Alexandra.
With a quiet hero, who has trouble dealing with emotions because of his troubled past; and a hands on heroine who will talk all of his fears and feelings until they make sense.
You are in for ride, and that’s a rollercoaster ride; because yes this book had me sobbing. Such a story with so many emotions does that to you, and don’t get me started with the instant connection the two MC’s have. It’s electric, hot and it’s just so intimate and intense.
Their story fits in perfectly with all the other characters in Blackstone Falls, so be sure to read it!
With a quiet hero, who has trouble dealing with emotions because of his troubled past; and a hands on heroine who will talk all of his fears and feelings until they make sense.
You are in for ride, and that’s a rollercoaster ride; because yes this book had me sobbing. Such a story with so many emotions does that to you, and don’t get me started with the instant connection the two MC’s have. It’s electric, hot and it’s just so intimate and intense.
Their story fits in perfectly with all the other characters in Blackstone Falls, so be sure to read it!
May 22, 2025
This is book 4 in the Blackstone Falls Series
•small town
•found family
•forced proximity
•virgin MMC
•roadtrip
Bohdi sweet Bohdi 😍🫠 I absolutely loved this book! Bohdi has a rough past that leaves him guarded. When Bohdi and Ella are set up to take a trip, the unexpected happens and Ella is able to dig into Bohdi and he begins to trust her. This story is beautiful and I loved every second! Who knew a virgin hero could have such a filthy mouth 🥵🫠
June 5, 2025
This was…an experience. This book was absolutely ALL over the place. It was definitely cute, but there was no depth behind anything. I feel like we never really got to know the characters and only got bits and pieces of who they were. This book also jumped around out of no where and it annoyed me. Like at one point they were in bed and then the next sentence they were out in the woods or something. Like what?? Or they would be on the couch and then all of a sudden at the bar. Idk it was just so weird. This book would have been really good if we just got more.
June 2, 2025
Loved this, as expected with anything Alexandra Hale writes. I was so curious about Bodhi’s story from the first book and I’m so glad he finally got his moment to shine
Bodhi and Ella were adorable and very sweet. I also loved the found family aspect. This group of friends is one of my ultimate favourite fiction family and I love the banter Alexandra has some of the best group text threads Ive ever read.
If you’re after a low angst, small town romance read, then I would highly recommend this series.
Bodhi and Ella were adorable and very sweet. I also loved the found family aspect. This group of friends is one of my ultimate favourite fiction family and I love the banter Alexandra has some of the best group text threads Ive ever read.
If you’re after a low angst, small town romance read, then I would highly recommend this series.
May 23, 2025
Alexandra Hale has once again stolen my heart and soul with Quietly Falling. Bodhi has always been an enigma from the time he arrived in Clementine Creek with Mason. We always knew that the trauma, scars, nightmares and burden Bodhi had been shouldering was very dark, overwhelming and all consuming. We finally got a peek into what he and Mason had endured, fought against and survived. When Bodhi slowly opens up giving us peeks into what they have gone through, I felt him in my heart and soul with tears. Truly. I can totally understand what it's like to be stranded to fend and fight back for your survival where you only have yourself to reply on without anyone having your back except Mason. I love their bond and relationship so when Bodhi decided that he should leave on his own to seek justice for his sister, my heart just broke. But boy am I am so happy that the Hank & Sorren with Isla was able to make him see sense - that he need not fight the world all alone when he has all of them from Clementine Creek & Blackstone Falls and that they have his back no matter what.
Ella the ray of sunshine was exactly who Bodhi needed - a soulmate who could see through him, his pain, hurts and scars and cleanse them away with her unconditional love. I absolutely adored the way she loved him so fiercely that she wanted to destroy the world to protect him. I loved Ella's character, the way she understands Bodhi just with her heart, not letting him go down the dark path of his past by filling his life with so much of love and sunshine. She is so perfect for Bodhi and I am truly glad that Rhea and Sorren deliberately pushed them to go on the road trip. Their HEA is truly a blessed and blissful one that I love so much.
I have always loved chosen family trope in small town romances. So, I always swoon over how the Clementine Creek & Blackstone Falls families always had each other's backs, loved each other unconditionally, protected and rallied around each other in times of need. In Quietly Falling, I fell in love with all of them all over again. Bodhi never had a family and friends who loved and cared about him after his parents passed on. The foster care was a nightmare. He never dared hope for a family, marriage, kids though it was a there in the deepest corner of his heart. The way the Clementine Creek & Blackstone Falls families went all out for Bodhi was so beautiful that it made me tear up.
Bodhi and Ella's HEA is a beautiful, intensely emotional and heartwarming story wonderfully crafted by Alexandra. A must read for all small-town romance lovers.
Ella the ray of sunshine was exactly who Bodhi needed - a soulmate who could see through him, his pain, hurts and scars and cleanse them away with her unconditional love. I absolutely adored the way she loved him so fiercely that she wanted to destroy the world to protect him. I loved Ella's character, the way she understands Bodhi just with her heart, not letting him go down the dark path of his past by filling his life with so much of love and sunshine. She is so perfect for Bodhi and I am truly glad that Rhea and Sorren deliberately pushed them to go on the road trip. Their HEA is truly a blessed and blissful one that I love so much.
I have always loved chosen family trope in small town romances. So, I always swoon over how the Clementine Creek & Blackstone Falls families always had each other's backs, loved each other unconditionally, protected and rallied around each other in times of need. In Quietly Falling, I fell in love with all of them all over again. Bodhi never had a family and friends who loved and cared about him after his parents passed on. The foster care was a nightmare. He never dared hope for a family, marriage, kids though it was a there in the deepest corner of his heart. The way the Clementine Creek & Blackstone Falls families went all out for Bodhi was so beautiful that it made me tear up.
Bodhi and Ella's HEA is a beautiful, intensely emotional and heartwarming story wonderfully crafted by Alexandra. A must read for all small-town romance lovers.
May 21, 2025
Bodhi! He’s the fella and ooh when he meets Ella! A simple favour but it turns out to derail them both . Not off the road but thanks to the icy road it’s not of their own accord as they’re forced to seek shelter. There’s an helter skelter of emotions ,a fast transition ,imagine the cork mat of quick decisions. Phew there is heat and it’s desire not fire although there’s that too burning inside . He’s Quietly Falling , it’s too late to hide.He has deep scars inside and out . His trauma rules his life ,that’s not in doubt .His friends care and are devout , there when he needs but as his memories play out like a movie reel, it’s all too real. This guy he doesn’t feel no more ,every movement is a chore ….Until this blonde beauty falls into his lap. It’s not a time to relapse .With Ella Crane he’s found his person ,his found family has grown in fact when this love of two souls do attract. More than a mere lover is he. He’s part of a family , he’s always been ,but now he’s seen. And that to him means much more , it’s ecstasy .Because his home ,it’s right here.His demons still haunt and taunt him even but he has his people around him to help him see the light and now for the first time he’s found HIS light. This storyline is a delight. Poignant too ,so many emotions ,I’m telling you! I adore this book ,it made me cry ,it made me smile My emotions were on a turnstile in fact ! I’m spent but in my element with this bliss of a read and a great big kiss for Bodhi from his other half Ella.Who’d know it would end this way? This so clever transition to a different ,new and bright position so gay and bright and that’s a start in healing his heart right. As he’d say you’re having a laugh and he’d mump like the grump he is and that’s just daft. He sees it now in any case . He’s found his place.The sunshine to his darkness has enveloped him with her charm and he feels safe from harm in her arms where he’s found warmth. Beautifully portrayed and superb storytelling from the great Alexandra Hale ,who does not fail to pull us in , a grimace a grin such is the premise ,it’s compelling . A promise. A storyline that’s pure and simply divine .Heaven sent, I’m spent ! Encore !? With characters who run the show ,who rule the world we immerse ourselves in. Splendid timing !!! Excellent read , I read with greed. Alexandra Hale you always give us what we need.
May 21, 2025
✨ 𝒩𝑒𝓌 𝐵𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌 ✨
Book: Quietly Falling
Author: Alexandra Haley
To Be Published: May 20, 2025
Rating: 4.0 ⭐️
———
“I’ll always be with you, silly. I just might be a butterfly.”
“It’s okay to grieve the parts of your life that no longer serve you. It’s okay to grieve the people and relationships that no longer fill you with joy. And it’s okay to grieve the hopes and dreams of your past so you can make room for your future.”
———
✨𝚃𝚛𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚜✨
Small Town
Forced Proximity
Found family
Road trip
Grumpy/sunshine
And plenty more!!
———
Quietly Falling is the kind of book that gets in close and won't let you leave. I came in not having read any of the other books in the Blackstone Falls series—and never felt lost. Alexandra Hale created such a deep, emotionally rich tale that I was hooked from the very beginning. I'm going to have to go back and read the rest of the series, as I am hooked.
This book is much more than a romance novel; it’s a thoughtful exploration of healing, trust, and learning how to let yourself be loved. Bodhi’s journey absolutely gutted me in the best way. He’s been carrying a weight from his past—blame, guilt, and the belief that he doesn’t deserve happiness. Watching him begin to open up, to accept kindness and connection again, moved me. It’s rare to see this level of emotional depth and growth in a MMC, which made it all the more powerful and refreshing to read. His growth is realistic, gradual, and never rushed, and that made it hit more intensely at the end.
Ella is the ideal kind of character Bodhi required—bright, snarky, patient, and warm-hearted. She sees past his silence and closed-off outside right away and just keeps showing up for him, however much he tries to drive her away. I loved their dynamic—the way she speaks to him and warmth set against his silence and introspection that created such a payoff in the emotional stakes. And once Bodhi finally starts to lower his guard? Their chemistry is off the charts; hot, sweet, and full of emotional depth.
The road trip element offered the ideal balance of forward motion and intimacy, both emotionally and physically. Despite the fact that this was my first encounter with the group, I could tell right away how close-knit, how much they loved one another, and how they all wanted to see each other become their best selves.
All things considered, this book is a brief, subtly beautiful love tale that I hope everyone will find enjoyable.
Book: Quietly Falling
Author: Alexandra Haley
To Be Published: May 20, 2025
Rating: 4.0 ⭐️
———
“I’ll always be with you, silly. I just might be a butterfly.”
“It’s okay to grieve the parts of your life that no longer serve you. It’s okay to grieve the people and relationships that no longer fill you with joy. And it’s okay to grieve the hopes and dreams of your past so you can make room for your future.”
———
✨𝚃𝚛𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚜✨
Small Town
Forced Proximity
Found family
Road trip
Grumpy/sunshine
And plenty more!!
———
Quietly Falling is the kind of book that gets in close and won't let you leave. I came in not having read any of the other books in the Blackstone Falls series—and never felt lost. Alexandra Hale created such a deep, emotionally rich tale that I was hooked from the very beginning. I'm going to have to go back and read the rest of the series, as I am hooked.
This book is much more than a romance novel; it’s a thoughtful exploration of healing, trust, and learning how to let yourself be loved. Bodhi’s journey absolutely gutted me in the best way. He’s been carrying a weight from his past—blame, guilt, and the belief that he doesn’t deserve happiness. Watching him begin to open up, to accept kindness and connection again, moved me. It’s rare to see this level of emotional depth and growth in a MMC, which made it all the more powerful and refreshing to read. His growth is realistic, gradual, and never rushed, and that made it hit more intensely at the end.
Ella is the ideal kind of character Bodhi required—bright, snarky, patient, and warm-hearted. She sees past his silence and closed-off outside right away and just keeps showing up for him, however much he tries to drive her away. I loved their dynamic—the way she speaks to him and warmth set against his silence and introspection that created such a payoff in the emotional stakes. And once Bodhi finally starts to lower his guard? Their chemistry is off the charts; hot, sweet, and full of emotional depth.
The road trip element offered the ideal balance of forward motion and intimacy, both emotionally and physically. Despite the fact that this was my first encounter with the group, I could tell right away how close-knit, how much they loved one another, and how they all wanted to see each other become their best selves.
All things considered, this book is a brief, subtly beautiful love tale that I hope everyone will find enjoyable.
May 30, 2025
I knew from reading the previous books in this series that when Bodhi Maxwell finally told his story that I would probably become an emotional wreck…and I did. Bodhi along with his foster brother Mason and foster sisters Audrey and Lauren, especially Audrey, were victims of a horrible foster family with Bodhi carrying an unbelievable burden. And even though Bodhi and Mason have found a support “family” in Blackstone Falls, Bodhi is ready to leave all them behind after he gets some devastating news and shoulder all his burdens alone but his “family” refuses to let him do that intervening by making him work at the Vetted Paws veteran-run animal shelter alongside of Sorren Mackay. It is there that after a pet adoptathon as he returns bakery trays to The Poppy Seed Bakery that he literally crashes into a ray of sunshine, Ella Crane, but unfortunately it will take the husband and wife team of Sorren and Rhea Mackay to get them together. A road trip, existing of close proximity for hundreds of miles, anxiety attack release, only one room and an emergency meet the chaotic family detour will either make them or break them…or it might do both in different ways.
One thing that grabbed my attention in this book was the stereotypical role reversal because here she makes the first move, she claims him as “mine” first, she takes his firsts, and she makes him says he’s hers first. He might have called her “little bird” but she flys like an eagle when it comes to staking a claim to and fighting for the one she wants. Some of the best parts of this book is the “family” support and teasing including Ella’s family. Although the book deals with horrible events it also has its much lighter moments that counter balance each other and the love story (chemistry off the charts) between Bodhi and Ella make this another great addition to the Blackstone Falls series.
I received an Advance Review Copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
One thing that grabbed my attention in this book was the stereotypical role reversal because here she makes the first move, she claims him as “mine” first, she takes his firsts, and she makes him says he’s hers first. He might have called her “little bird” but she flys like an eagle when it comes to staking a claim to and fighting for the one she wants. Some of the best parts of this book is the “family” support and teasing including Ella’s family. Although the book deals with horrible events it also has its much lighter moments that counter balance each other and the love story (chemistry off the charts) between Bodhi and Ella make this another great addition to the Blackstone Falls series.
I received an Advance Review Copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Tropes:
🚗 Road Trip
☁️ Grumpy x Sunshine
❤️ Found Family
🧍Virgin Hero
🛌 Forced Proximity
🏘 Small Town
🫠 Spicy + Swoony
Review:
In Quietly falling, we follow Ella and Bodhi who end up in close proximity on an impromptu road trip.
Our MMC Bodhi has his own trauma to deal with from the past, and is confronted by them throughout the story. Our FMC Ella is someone he can't help but fall for and we watch him coming to terms with how he feels for her while battling his own demons.
I loved seeing Ella and Bodhi connect throughout the story as well as how Bodhi really challenged his thoughts and the mentality he came to adopt throughout his life with her. It was really easy to see how much he cared for her and honestly you can't help but root for the two of them since he definitely deserved a happy ending and to be loved the way he was.
I love that Ella came to be someone who could help him grow and love him the way he deserved. She wasn't afraid to love him for all he was, despite his own troubles and the fact that it was so pure. She saw him for who he was beyond the surface level and it was so gratifying seeing her support and be there for him, not just physically but also emotionally.
The side characters also provided that comforting sense of found family, and it was really gratifying seeing the community they built together and how deep that love and attention they had for each other grew, beyond their respective families.
It truly was like the embodiment of family being definitive by that close knit sense of belonging, not just in blood but evident in character. No matter the troubles Bodhi faced, the rest of them would be there to support and guide him.
It was a really quick and enjoyable read and I would reccomend it to anyone looking for a road trip romance with a sweet and pure kind of love. Thank you to Luna Literary and Alexandra for the ARC 🤍
Tropes:
🚗 Road Trip
☁️ Grumpy x Sunshine
❤️ Found Family
🧍Virgin Hero
🛌 Forced Proximity
🏘 Small Town
🫠 Spicy + Swoony
Review:
In Quietly falling, we follow Ella and Bodhi who end up in close proximity on an impromptu road trip.
Our MMC Bodhi has his own trauma to deal with from the past, and is confronted by them throughout the story. Our FMC Ella is someone he can't help but fall for and we watch him coming to terms with how he feels for her while battling his own demons.
I loved seeing Ella and Bodhi connect throughout the story as well as how Bodhi really challenged his thoughts and the mentality he came to adopt throughout his life with her. It was really easy to see how much he cared for her and honestly you can't help but root for the two of them since he definitely deserved a happy ending and to be loved the way he was.
I love that Ella came to be someone who could help him grow and love him the way he deserved. She wasn't afraid to love him for all he was, despite his own troubles and the fact that it was so pure. She saw him for who he was beyond the surface level and it was so gratifying seeing her support and be there for him, not just physically but also emotionally.
The side characters also provided that comforting sense of found family, and it was really gratifying seeing the community they built together and how deep that love and attention they had for each other grew, beyond their respective families.
It truly was like the embodiment of family being definitive by that close knit sense of belonging, not just in blood but evident in character. No matter the troubles Bodhi faced, the rest of them would be there to support and guide him.
It was a really quick and enjoyable read and I would reccomend it to anyone looking for a road trip romance with a sweet and pure kind of love. Thank you to Luna Literary and Alexandra for the ARC 🤍
May 18, 2025
𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 is the 4th book in the Blackstone Falls series by Alexandra Hale, featuring Body and Ella’s highly emotional grumpy/sunshine road trip romance that brings all the feels! Bodhi’s been at the mercy of his traumatic past his entire life, as it has impacted his ability to truly trust relationships, despite being surrounded by friends who love him. A simple favor changes everything, when a road trip gone awry leads to a magic kiss from Ella with the ability to pull him from the clutches of darkness. Can Bodhi hold on to the happiness their building, or will his past derail him again?
This is the story I’ve been waiting on from this world, and it was 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨!! I’ll never understand how this author writes such multidimensional, well-developed stories in such a fast-paced format, but she continues to impress! This is my favorite book of hers that I’ve read so far! I cried more than once, I was so connected emotionally to the story! At the same time though, there were multiple laugh out loud moments, whether it was witty dialogue or the hilarious text threads! And yes, the romance aspect was amazing, with both chemistry and a deeper connection! I love that it was intricately woven into Bodhi’s emotional backstory, as we learn why he waited to pursue a relationship. Ella was an amazing heroine with so much strength and empathy, just perfect for Bodhi. The found family vibe throughout this series has been top notch, but it was extraordinary in this one, as all the friends rallied for Bodhi. The butterfly has a significance in this story that truly touched my heart. I’ll just say that for my family it’s the cardinal, but I so appreciated that storyline!🥰🥹 I cannot wait for the next story! Don’t miss the downloadable bonus!
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
This is the story I’ve been waiting on from this world, and it was 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨!! I’ll never understand how this author writes such multidimensional, well-developed stories in such a fast-paced format, but she continues to impress! This is my favorite book of hers that I’ve read so far! I cried more than once, I was so connected emotionally to the story! At the same time though, there were multiple laugh out loud moments, whether it was witty dialogue or the hilarious text threads! And yes, the romance aspect was amazing, with both chemistry and a deeper connection! I love that it was intricately woven into Bodhi’s emotional backstory, as we learn why he waited to pursue a relationship. Ella was an amazing heroine with so much strength and empathy, just perfect for Bodhi. The found family vibe throughout this series has been top notch, but it was extraordinary in this one, as all the friends rallied for Bodhi. The butterfly has a significance in this story that truly touched my heart. I’ll just say that for my family it’s the cardinal, but I so appreciated that storyline!🥰🥹 I cannot wait for the next story! Don’t miss the downloadable bonus!
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶.5
May 21, 2025
"No, this particular read was courtesy of Sorren Mackay when he tossed it to me and said congratulations, you're in book club now."
How can I not love this book when a male character tosses a book to the MMC and announces he's in book club now? This book is book 4 in the Blackstone Falls series - I have not read the first three and this read like a standalone, although knowing there are 3 other books made me yearn to know the stories of the other couples. So I will be reading those.
"Nothing in this world is easy; that's why we don't walk the road alone."
Ella and Bohdi were written in the stars - at least that's how I think of them. They were coerced together by friends and it turns out that is a good thing - they had been circling each other for a bit. Bohdi is hurt and takes care of everyone else. Coming from a background of abuse (check your triggers in the Author's Note), he wants so much to be a part of a family but has a hard time giving in and trusting. Ella is not what I expected at all and may be the one who can help him heal. She is shy and quiet while also being assertive and courageous.
I enjoyed this book, the dual POV was perfection. I'm a sucker for a guy group chat and this book served that well. The characters are a perfect mix of gruff & grumpy and "we are family" & "we take care of our own."
"Get in the car Ella" I cannot EVER resist a "get in the car" command after "Get in the car, Elizabeth" from Hot Moms.
My introvert self screamed when I read this because someone gets me:
"It'd be easier if I could at least tolerate a higher level of socialization."
"You, sir, are amazing and you make people earn your trust and time. There's nothing wrong with that. You're not broken, and you don't have to force yourself to be someone else's version of acceptable."
I'll read everything Alexandra Hale wants to write. Read this in one day. Couldn't put it down.
Tropes:
*Forced Proximity
*Small Town Romance
*Road Trip
*Found Family
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
How can I not love this book when a male character tosses a book to the MMC and announces he's in book club now? This book is book 4 in the Blackstone Falls series - I have not read the first three and this read like a standalone, although knowing there are 3 other books made me yearn to know the stories of the other couples. So I will be reading those.
"Nothing in this world is easy; that's why we don't walk the road alone."
Ella and Bohdi were written in the stars - at least that's how I think of them. They were coerced together by friends and it turns out that is a good thing - they had been circling each other for a bit. Bohdi is hurt and takes care of everyone else. Coming from a background of abuse (check your triggers in the Author's Note), he wants so much to be a part of a family but has a hard time giving in and trusting. Ella is not what I expected at all and may be the one who can help him heal. She is shy and quiet while also being assertive and courageous.
I enjoyed this book, the dual POV was perfection. I'm a sucker for a guy group chat and this book served that well. The characters are a perfect mix of gruff & grumpy and "we are family" & "we take care of our own."
"Get in the car Ella" I cannot EVER resist a "get in the car" command after "Get in the car, Elizabeth" from Hot Moms.
My introvert self screamed when I read this because someone gets me:
"It'd be easier if I could at least tolerate a higher level of socialization."
"You, sir, are amazing and you make people earn your trust and time. There's nothing wrong with that. You're not broken, and you don't have to force yourself to be someone else's version of acceptable."
I'll read everything Alexandra Hale wants to write. Read this in one day. Couldn't put it down.
Tropes:
*Forced Proximity
*Small Town Romance
*Road Trip
*Found Family
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 21, 2025
Thanks to @authoralexandrahale for the #gifted copy of this book.
Summary: With an extremely tragic background, Bodhi has carried his trauma with him into adulthood being sure to never get too close to anyone other than his foster brother, Mason. However, after quite literally running into Ella all his walls begin to crumble, though he tries his hardest to ignore the pull of his heart. When the two are forced into a road trip, Bodhi struggles to keep his feelings for Ella at bay. Will he let his heart love another or will his past haunt him and push him to run away yet again?
My Thoughts: Be still my heart.... I loved Bodhi and Ella so so much! I've been waiting for Bodhi's story since book 1 and it exceeded all of my expectations and became a favorite of mine. The found family in this series is strong and it's so important for Bodhi with his tragic past. He has built a family around him in the best ways being a strong and steady presence for his friends and their families. I love how vulnerable Bodhi was with Ella, especially since he is not usually so open with the others around him. Ella was so patient with Bodhi but also pushed him to let her in and take a risk in loving her despite an unknown future. This book had me in all the feels from page 1 and tears flowing throughout most of it (which is very unusual for me). This book was pure perfection with the best spice, unbelievable swoony moments, and the best moments with friends.
This book is out today and you can read it on Kindle Unlimited. Though it is part of a series, you can read it as a standalone. I highly suggest reading the whole series to get the full effect of this tight knit group. I loved the hints given throughout this book for the last couple of the series. Alexandra honestly outdid herself with this book and I'm excited to see what's next!
Read if you love:
🚗Road Trip
🌤️Grumpy/Sunshine
💖Found Family
💜Virgin Hero
🔥Forced Proximity
🤩Small Town
❤️🔥Spicy + Swoony
Summary: With an extremely tragic background, Bodhi has carried his trauma with him into adulthood being sure to never get too close to anyone other than his foster brother, Mason. However, after quite literally running into Ella all his walls begin to crumble, though he tries his hardest to ignore the pull of his heart. When the two are forced into a road trip, Bodhi struggles to keep his feelings for Ella at bay. Will he let his heart love another or will his past haunt him and push him to run away yet again?
My Thoughts: Be still my heart.... I loved Bodhi and Ella so so much! I've been waiting for Bodhi's story since book 1 and it exceeded all of my expectations and became a favorite of mine. The found family in this series is strong and it's so important for Bodhi with his tragic past. He has built a family around him in the best ways being a strong and steady presence for his friends and their families. I love how vulnerable Bodhi was with Ella, especially since he is not usually so open with the others around him. Ella was so patient with Bodhi but also pushed him to let her in and take a risk in loving her despite an unknown future. This book had me in all the feels from page 1 and tears flowing throughout most of it (which is very unusual for me). This book was pure perfection with the best spice, unbelievable swoony moments, and the best moments with friends.
This book is out today and you can read it on Kindle Unlimited. Though it is part of a series, you can read it as a standalone. I highly suggest reading the whole series to get the full effect of this tight knit group. I loved the hints given throughout this book for the last couple of the series. Alexandra honestly outdid herself with this book and I'm excited to see what's next!
Read if you love:
🚗Road Trip
🌤️Grumpy/Sunshine
💖Found Family
💜Virgin Hero
🔥Forced Proximity
🤩Small Town
❤️🔥Spicy + Swoony
May 20, 2025
The fourth installment in Alexandra Hale's Blackstone Falls series, Quietly Falling, revolves around Body and Ella's deeply passionate road trip romance that is filled with both grumpy and cheerful moments. Ella embodies joyful sunlight, while Bodhi has been quietly confronting his past, where he failed to safeguard a foster sister. She chatters incessantly for hours during the car ride, while he remains quiet yet still captivated by her. Nonetheless, get ready as the suspense gradually begins to rise throughout the trip! You wouldn't anticipate Bodhi engaging in a secret, dirty conversation. Bodhi triumphs and discovers his chosen family with Ella's support. Once the worries calmed down, these two formed a perfect match. It was quite enjoyable to witness how their love evolved and the risks Bodhi took for Ella.
I cherish my newly discovered family. They truly care for each other and are ready to assist one another, even if it's merely to motivate one another. For Bodhi and Ella, this team accomplishes exactly that. I loved how perfectly they matched each other, their trip together, their shared bed, and their diversion. Upon learning about Bodhi's history, I felt sorrow for him; however, Ella stands by him and assists him in moving forward. As soon as I began reading it, I was unable to stop; it's my favorite book by Alexandra Hale so far.
I had been anticipating Bodhi to understand how much everyone cares for and values him during the whole series. The pages continued to turn due to the charming and friendly connection with Ella. Prepare wisely, as I was absorbed in this world and completed it all at once.
I cherish my newly discovered family. They truly care for each other and are ready to assist one another, even if it's merely to motivate one another. For Bodhi and Ella, this team accomplishes exactly that. I loved how perfectly they matched each other, their trip together, their shared bed, and their diversion. Upon learning about Bodhi's history, I felt sorrow for him; however, Ella stands by him and assists him in moving forward. As soon as I began reading it, I was unable to stop; it's my favorite book by Alexandra Hale so far.
I had been anticipating Bodhi to understand how much everyone cares for and values him during the whole series. The pages continued to turn due to the charming and friendly connection with Ella. Prepare wisely, as I was absorbed in this world and completed it all at once.
May 24, 2025
Beauty. That's it, one word that describes this whole read and every feeling it evokes. It's the beauty of a read that sneaks up on you and hits you with far more than you were expecting, the beauty of finishing it and feeling whole even though you didn't know you had any broken pieces, and the beauty of knowing that what you've just read is something incredibly special that gave you a story worth holding onto long after you've put it down, and Ella and Bodhi, their story and the way Alexandra Hale has written it, is all of that and so very much more.
The thing about this read is, it’s a romance filled with humor, heartache, and hot steamy nights that were never about sex but about opening your heart. About believing your worthy and finally letting all the beauty, of love, friendship, knowing you did everything you could, fighting for someone who can’t fight for themselves anymore, and family, inside you with open arms and seeing the beauty of what an impact you made on a few that helped them get everything. And it’s moving, touching, restores a little of your faith in humanity and reminds you to open your own eyes and heart and see all those beautiful things around you the way that Bodhi, a broken man who doesn’t believe he’s done enough to be loved and struggles with letting the good in, is reminded of the same by a bubbly, tenacious blonde who sees all his mangled parts and all his beautiful pieces and knows without a doubt that he’s everything that’s good and kind and wonderful about a man, about humans and more than deserves all of her love. A read I would happily shout about from rooftops it’s so good and just everything.
The thing about this read is, it’s a romance filled with humor, heartache, and hot steamy nights that were never about sex but about opening your heart. About believing your worthy and finally letting all the beauty, of love, friendship, knowing you did everything you could, fighting for someone who can’t fight for themselves anymore, and family, inside you with open arms and seeing the beauty of what an impact you made on a few that helped them get everything. And it’s moving, touching, restores a little of your faith in humanity and reminds you to open your own eyes and heart and see all those beautiful things around you the way that Bodhi, a broken man who doesn’t believe he’s done enough to be loved and struggles with letting the good in, is reminded of the same by a bubbly, tenacious blonde who sees all his mangled parts and all his beautiful pieces and knows without a doubt that he’s everything that’s good and kind and wonderful about a man, about humans and more than deserves all of her love. A read I would happily shout about from rooftops it’s so good and just everything.
May 27, 2025
From the very first page, Quietly Falling had my whole heart.. Oh my stars, this story!! ✨
I was completely swept away by Bodhi and Ella's journey. Bodhi isn’t just a character, he’s a whole experience...a walking contradiction of tough edges and soft shadows. I fell in love with him line by line...is quiet strength, his vulnerability, the way he guards his heart but can’t help letting Ella in...chef’s kiss perfection! 💘
His every interaction had me blushing, sighing, and lowkey wishing I could step inside the pages and love him myself (he’s good with kids too 👀 which is just unfairly attractive). He’s the kind of man who doesn’t say much, but when he does? It wrecks you in the best way.
And Ella? She’s the light he didn’t know he needed,
the warmth that cracks through every wall he’s ever built. ☀️ The tension between them is deliciously drawn out, the road trip setting adds the perfect touch of “fate had a plan,” and don’t even get me started on the forced proximity cabin scenes...hello replay button 🔥 It’s swoony. It’s spicy. It’s soul-deep.
The found family element wrapped around my heart
like a cozy blanket 🫶 and reminded me how love often
finds us in the most unexpected places. This isn’t just a romance...it’s a healing arc, a soft unraveling of past pain, and a story about being seen and loved exactly as you are and the beauty of someone saying, “I see you. I want you. As you are.”
It’s tender, it's intimate, it’s heartbreakingly hopeful...
and I quietly (but also loudly) fell in love with every single word. Bodhi, if you're out there, call me 🫣
I was completely swept away by Bodhi and Ella's journey. Bodhi isn’t just a character, he’s a whole experience...a walking contradiction of tough edges and soft shadows. I fell in love with him line by line...is quiet strength, his vulnerability, the way he guards his heart but can’t help letting Ella in...chef’s kiss perfection! 💘
His every interaction had me blushing, sighing, and lowkey wishing I could step inside the pages and love him myself (he’s good with kids too 👀 which is just unfairly attractive). He’s the kind of man who doesn’t say much, but when he does? It wrecks you in the best way.
And Ella? She’s the light he didn’t know he needed,
the warmth that cracks through every wall he’s ever built. ☀️ The tension between them is deliciously drawn out, the road trip setting adds the perfect touch of “fate had a plan,” and don’t even get me started on the forced proximity cabin scenes...hello replay button 🔥 It’s swoony. It’s spicy. It’s soul-deep.
The found family element wrapped around my heart
like a cozy blanket 🫶 and reminded me how love often
finds us in the most unexpected places. This isn’t just a romance...it’s a healing arc, a soft unraveling of past pain, and a story about being seen and loved exactly as you are and the beauty of someone saying, “I see you. I want you. As you are.”
It’s tender, it's intimate, it’s heartbreakingly hopeful...
and I quietly (but also loudly) fell in love with every single word. Bodhi, if you're out there, call me 🫣
May 17, 2025
Bodhi’s story is emotional and poignant.
I’ve been waiting for Bodhi’s story since we met him in the Clementine Creek series, and I have to say I am thrilled with his story. Bodhi completely captured my heart as I wiped the tears from my eyes at this emotional and poignant story. You know who Bodhi Maxwell is if you’ve been around Blackstone Falls and Clementine Creek. He’s quiet, reserved, and often solitary since his brother Mason found his soulmate. He has scars that run deep – physically and emotionally. When his past bleeds into he present, he’s lost and floundering. Ella Crane comes from a big family (who I hope we see more of), but she is the only one who still lives in Tennessee while the rest have moved to North Carolina. She misses her family but has found a home in Blackstone Falls and with Rhea and The Poppy Seed bakery.
I love this found family of friends. They care so much for each other and are willing to help each other, even if it’s to give them a push toward someone. That’s what this group does for Bodhi and Ella. I loved their road trip, their one-bed, their detour, and how they felt so right for each other. My heart broke for Bodhi as we learned about his past, but Ella is there for him and helps him move forward. This is absolutely my favorite Alexandra Hale book to date and I couldn’t put it down once I started reading it. She held me captive with these wonderful people, the quirky town, and this emotional and thrilling story. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I’ve been waiting for Bodhi’s story since we met him in the Clementine Creek series, and I have to say I am thrilled with his story. Bodhi completely captured my heart as I wiped the tears from my eyes at this emotional and poignant story. You know who Bodhi Maxwell is if you’ve been around Blackstone Falls and Clementine Creek. He’s quiet, reserved, and often solitary since his brother Mason found his soulmate. He has scars that run deep – physically and emotionally. When his past bleeds into he present, he’s lost and floundering. Ella Crane comes from a big family (who I hope we see more of), but she is the only one who still lives in Tennessee while the rest have moved to North Carolina. She misses her family but has found a home in Blackstone Falls and with Rhea and The Poppy Seed bakery.
I love this found family of friends. They care so much for each other and are willing to help each other, even if it’s to give them a push toward someone. That’s what this group does for Bodhi and Ella. I loved their road trip, their one-bed, their detour, and how they felt so right for each other. My heart broke for Bodhi as we learned about his past, but Ella is there for him and helps him move forward. This is absolutely my favorite Alexandra Hale book to date and I couldn’t put it down once I started reading it. She held me captive with these wonderful people, the quirky town, and this emotional and thrilling story. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
May 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 4 Stars
🌶 - Spice Level
Ella and Bodhi have been both crushing on each other for a while now. Neither seems to bite the bullet and ask the other out. He barely says words in her presence in the bakery, and she doesn't think he liked her like that. I felt like this was very much a Check Yes or No moment, with them needing a little encouragement via a "Do You Like Me" note. Their friends throw them to on a countertop run for the bakery, which is a 7 hour road trip to force the sparks to SPARK🔥 🧨!
Bodhi has been trying to deal quietly with his past, where he was unable to protect a foster sister, and Ella is this happy sunshine. For hours on the road trip, she just spews chatter while he is quiet, but falling even more for her. But when the tension finally is tensioning during the trip, buckle up! Bodhi has some hidden dirty talk you wouldn't expect. Ella is the one who helps Bodhi overcome and realize his found family. These two were a perfect match once the jitters cleared. I absolutely enjoyed seeing their relationship unfold and the risks Bodhi took for Ella.
As this is standalone you don't need to read the other books in the series, but I'm betting it would be fruitful to start at book 1 as many of the previous characters in this small town make appearances. You might even get a better sense for this couple as well with the little tidbits setting up this book.
⚠️ Please read all content and trigger warnings ⚠️!
Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: May 21, 2025
🌶 - Spice Level
Ella and Bodhi have been both crushing on each other for a while now. Neither seems to bite the bullet and ask the other out. He barely says words in her presence in the bakery, and she doesn't think he liked her like that. I felt like this was very much a Check Yes or No moment, with them needing a little encouragement via a "Do You Like Me" note. Their friends throw them to on a countertop run for the bakery, which is a 7 hour road trip to force the sparks to SPARK🔥 🧨!
Bodhi has been trying to deal quietly with his past, where he was unable to protect a foster sister, and Ella is this happy sunshine. For hours on the road trip, she just spews chatter while he is quiet, but falling even more for her. But when the tension finally is tensioning during the trip, buckle up! Bodhi has some hidden dirty talk you wouldn't expect. Ella is the one who helps Bodhi overcome and realize his found family. These two were a perfect match once the jitters cleared. I absolutely enjoyed seeing their relationship unfold and the risks Bodhi took for Ella.
As this is standalone you don't need to read the other books in the series, but I'm betting it would be fruitful to start at book 1 as many of the previous characters in this small town make appearances. You might even get a better sense for this couple as well with the little tidbits setting up this book.
⚠️ Please read all content and trigger warnings ⚠️!
Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: May 21, 2025
May 21, 2025
Quietly Falling (ARC REVIEW)
Alexandra Hale
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶.5
Thank you for the ARC Alexandra Hale
Alexandra Hale has written another beautiful and emotion filled book. I have been looking forward to Bodhi's story since he and his brother Mason were first introduced. I knew this book was going to take me on an emotional roller-coaster ride, and it did, but the journey and ending was well worth the moments of heartbreak I felt for Bohdi. Especially since he finally got the beautiful and HEA life he so much deserved ❤️.
Bodhi and Ella's story was beyond beautiful. I loved how these two had such an amazing connection. Bodhi has been through so much pain and loss in his life and that made him very guarded against letting people into his heart but Ella was determined to break down his walls and the support and love she showed him was exactly what he needed to be able to live again. These two had a soulmate chemistry, and I found myself going through all kinds of emotions. Laughing, crying, and swooning.
Thia book was filled with all our favorite couples from past books and to see them all support Bodhi and show him that he has the biggest found family and they love his was just fantastic.
I say it every time I read and Alexandra Hale book that I am a fan of hers for life!
#smalltownromance #smalltownromancebooks #smalltownromancerecs #grumpysunshinetrope #bookishreels #bookish #readmoreromance #romancebookrecs
Alexandra Hale
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶.5
Thank you for the ARC Alexandra Hale
Alexandra Hale has written another beautiful and emotion filled book. I have been looking forward to Bodhi's story since he and his brother Mason were first introduced. I knew this book was going to take me on an emotional roller-coaster ride, and it did, but the journey and ending was well worth the moments of heartbreak I felt for Bohdi. Especially since he finally got the beautiful and HEA life he so much deserved ❤️.
Bodhi and Ella's story was beyond beautiful. I loved how these two had such an amazing connection. Bodhi has been through so much pain and loss in his life and that made him very guarded against letting people into his heart but Ella was determined to break down his walls and the support and love she showed him was exactly what he needed to be able to live again. These two had a soulmate chemistry, and I found myself going through all kinds of emotions. Laughing, crying, and swooning.
Thia book was filled with all our favorite couples from past books and to see them all support Bodhi and show him that he has the biggest found family and they love his was just fantastic.
I say it every time I read and Alexandra Hale book that I am a fan of hers for life!
#smalltownromance #smalltownromancebooks #smalltownromancerecs #grumpysunshinetrope #bookishreels #bookish #readmoreromance #romancebookrecs
May 22, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I devoured this book. I literally started it and finished it in one sitting and now I’m a little sad that it’s over. I’ll be rereading this for sure.
First of all, I love both of our main characters for completely different reasons. Starting with Ella, I love her because she is just this beautiful ray of sunshine. She is supportive, she is loving, she is hard-working, and she will do anything for those people that she cares for. I loved watching as she basically talked her way into Bodhi’s heart.
I instantly fell in love with Bodhi because I am a sucker for a quiet, almost brooding man. Shove him into that “broken boy” trope and I’m obsessed. I love how this character ends up being portrayed as super sensitive even through he may be a little scary at face value. I also love his love for kids, which makes sense given the circumstances.
The pacing of this story was also perfect in my mind. I think we get some good introductions before jumping in, but when they jump in they do so head first. It’s almost like we get just enough information but then we get to the spicy to keep the audiences attention while we learn about more nitty gritty. I’m not a huge slow burn fan, so this speed was perfect for me.
Without spoiling anything, the epilogue killed me. I was tearing up throughout the entire book but when we got to the epilogue I lost it. Omg I just love them all so so much.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I devoured this book. I literally started it and finished it in one sitting and now I’m a little sad that it’s over. I’ll be rereading this for sure.
First of all, I love both of our main characters for completely different reasons. Starting with Ella, I love her because she is just this beautiful ray of sunshine. She is supportive, she is loving, she is hard-working, and she will do anything for those people that she cares for. I loved watching as she basically talked her way into Bodhi’s heart.
I instantly fell in love with Bodhi because I am a sucker for a quiet, almost brooding man. Shove him into that “broken boy” trope and I’m obsessed. I love how this character ends up being portrayed as super sensitive even through he may be a little scary at face value. I also love his love for kids, which makes sense given the circumstances.
The pacing of this story was also perfect in my mind. I think we get some good introductions before jumping in, but when they jump in they do so head first. It’s almost like we get just enough information but then we get to the spicy to keep the audiences attention while we learn about more nitty gritty. I’m not a huge slow burn fan, so this speed was perfect for me.
Without spoiling anything, the epilogue killed me. I was tearing up throughout the entire book but when we got to the epilogue I lost it. Omg I just love them all so so much.
May 27, 2025
Quietly Falling is book 4 in the Blackstone Falls series and is the book I was most looking forward to. This book follows Bodhi and Ella. Bodhi is the character that has been in the background throughout this series. He’s quiet, and shy, and holds the weight of his past on his shoulders. But he is the one they all seem to turn to when they need some advice and he’s always there. And don’t get me started on him with the kids 🫠
So, I was dying to get my hands on his story and it did not disappoint. He is all of those things but he also has the biggest heart and a bit of a filthy mouth which was a pleasant surprise!
Ella is the pure sunshine to Bohdi’s stoic personality. She comes crashing into Bohdi’s life quite literally and turns his world upside down. She gives him the love and support to come to terms with his past. And to recognize the love and support that surrounds him.
What else you’ll find in this book:
🦋 Road trip
🦋 Grief/healing journey
🦋 Virgin hero
🦋 Found Family
🦋 Small town
The found family is my favorite part of this series, there is a bonfire scene that had me in tears. The way these friends love and support each other is amazing. And I love that 2 of my favorites from the Clementine Creek series were matchmakers for Ella and Bohdi.
This book made me swoon, laugh, blush, and shed some tears! Another great book from Alexandra.
Quietly Falling is out now and is available in KU. This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
So, I was dying to get my hands on his story and it did not disappoint. He is all of those things but he also has the biggest heart and a bit of a filthy mouth which was a pleasant surprise!
Ella is the pure sunshine to Bohdi’s stoic personality. She comes crashing into Bohdi’s life quite literally and turns his world upside down. She gives him the love and support to come to terms with his past. And to recognize the love and support that surrounds him.
What else you’ll find in this book:
🦋 Road trip
🦋 Grief/healing journey
🦋 Virgin hero
🦋 Found Family
🦋 Small town
The found family is my favorite part of this series, there is a bonfire scene that had me in tears. The way these friends love and support each other is amazing. And I love that 2 of my favorites from the Clementine Creek series were matchmakers for Ella and Bohdi.
This book made me swoon, laugh, blush, and shed some tears! Another great book from Alexandra.
Quietly Falling is out now and is available in KU. This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
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