What do you think?
Rate this book
Falling into Place
Finding a date for a reclusive bachelor is her job. It’s also a risk when she becomes the perfect match in an emotional and hopeful romance by the author of
If Tomorrow Never Comes
.
Accountant and freelance personal stylist Carly Porter, daughter of a compulsive gambler, knows the personal cost of a bad bet. But when she partners with her best friend, Sasha—publisher of a floundering fashion magazine—Carly can’t resist. The highly publicized makeover of an Oklahoma City bachelor could boost sales and be Carly’s ticket to her dream profession. The bachelor in question is none other than Sasha’s older brother, Brooks.
Hardly the party boy Carly remembers from high school, Brooks is now an antisocial, work-obsessed physician still struggling with a devastating loss. But if it means helping his sister, he’s in. It’s Carly’s job to get him out of those lived-in scrubs, style him to the nines, and bring Brooks back to life. But so far, the only real connection is between Brooks and Carly—and falling for a client could cost Carly the career she’s worked so hard for.
To move forward, they’ll both have to overcome their painful pasts. And whatever the risk, maybe even take a chance on love.
Accountant and freelance personal stylist Carly Porter, daughter of a compulsive gambler, knows the personal cost of a bad bet. But when she partners with her best friend, Sasha—publisher of a floundering fashion magazine—Carly can’t resist. The highly publicized makeover of an Oklahoma City bachelor could boost sales and be Carly’s ticket to her dream profession. The bachelor in question is none other than Sasha’s older brother, Brooks.
Hardly the party boy Carly remembers from high school, Brooks is now an antisocial, work-obsessed physician still struggling with a devastating loss. But if it means helping his sister, he’s in. It’s Carly’s job to get him out of those lived-in scrubs, style him to the nines, and bring Brooks back to life. But so far, the only real connection is between Brooks and Carly—and falling for a client could cost Carly the career she’s worked so hard for.
To move forward, they’ll both have to overcome their painful pasts. And whatever the risk, maybe even take a chance on love.
319 pages, Paperback
Published August 19, 2025
860 people are currently reading
11019 people want to read
About the author
Allison Ashley
8 books1,740 followersAllison Ashley is a music-loving, coffee-drinking mom of two who loves love stories. She's an oncology pharmacist and spends her days focused on helping patients through the hardest thing life can throw at them. Her escape has always been books—specifically reading books about happiness, love, and laughter—and it was inevitable that she'd eventually write her own. She promises to always write stories with deep romance, intense connection, and humor…but most of all, that coveted happy ever after.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 322 reviews
October 30, 2025
4.25⭐
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Setting ~ Oklahoma
Publication date ~ August 19, 2025
Publisher ~ Montlake & Brilliance Audio
Est Page Count ~ 312 (33 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 18 minutes
Narrator ~ Ann Marie Gideon
POV ~ dual 3rd
Featuring ~ best friends brother, sisters best friend, forced proximity, slow burn, no steamage
Carly & Brooks
Carly is a full time accountant, but her passion is personal styling, which she does on the side. In order to make that a full time gig she needs to come up with an awesome proposal that will wow her boss. It just so happens that her bff, Sasha's, fashion magazine needs a boost, too, so they team up to get more exposure for both of them.
Brooks is not too keen on being the new face of his sister's magazine by way of going out of date after date after date that will be broadcasted for all readers, but he'd do anything for his sister's so he's reluctantly in. He was so sweet and I especially loved his relationship with his old HS coach.
I don't love when there are other women/men drama in my romance, but it's the whole point of the plot, so I guess it's okay.
Overall, this was caauuutttteeee, then not so much for a hot minute, then caauuutttteeee again. Both characters were relatable, they had good banter and chemistry. And how adorable was that epilogue??
Narration notes:
One female narrator 😐, sounded fine, though.
Thanks Brilliance Audio for my vacation listen 🙌
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Setting ~ Oklahoma
Publication date ~ August 19, 2025
Publisher ~ Montlake & Brilliance Audio
Est Page Count ~ 312 (33 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 18 minutes
Narrator ~ Ann Marie Gideon
POV ~ dual 3rd
Featuring ~ best friends brother, sisters best friend, forced proximity, slow burn, no steamage
Carly & Brooks
Carly is a full time accountant, but her passion is personal styling, which she does on the side. In order to make that a full time gig she needs to come up with an awesome proposal that will wow her boss. It just so happens that her bff, Sasha's, fashion magazine needs a boost, too, so they team up to get more exposure for both of them.
Brooks is not too keen on being the new face of his sister's magazine by way of going out of date after date after date that will be broadcasted for all readers, but he'd do anything for his sister's so he's reluctantly in. He was so sweet and I especially loved his relationship with his old HS coach.
I don't love when there are other women/men drama in my romance, but it's the whole point of the plot, so I guess it's okay.
Overall, this was caauuutttteeee, then not so much for a hot minute, then caauuutttteeee again. Both characters were relatable, they had good banter and chemistry. And how adorable was that epilogue??
Narration notes:
One female narrator 😐, sounded fine, though.
Thanks Brilliance Audio for my vacation listen 🙌
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
Want to read
November 16, 2025At first, I didn’t realize 'Falling into Place' was going to be about one of the side characters from the author’s previous book,'If Tomorrow Never Comes'. If you’ve read that one, then you’ve already met Carly—and she honestly deserves nothing but the best.
I can’t wait to dive into her story!
I can’t wait to dive into her story!
November 7, 2025
Available Kindle Unlimited with Audio
A weak 3 stars...
This was cute. It is the best description I can give it. I did not read this authors first book "Tomorrow Never Comes"-apparently the MFC, Carly, is the a crossover to Falling Into Place and she gets her story now.
I have noticed these 'cute' books are not really my cup of tea so please take this review for what it is worth. I like a palate cleanser like the next person but this one wasn't fun or loveable enough that I would recommend.
Of course I always like my HEA. Also always love anytime there is a character in medicine and the lingo is done correctly. MMC Brooks is an Intensivist-ICU physician (longggg time ICU nurse here!) and the medical writing was correct- most people could care less about that in their romance-it is a win for me.
The book has a lot of emotional depth but it is also a rom-com and romance- felt-to me- like a few too many genre that I couldn't pick the right hat to wear to really get into the book. The writing, humor and emotion are well done, it just didn't fit together as seamlessly as I would have enjoyed to bring my rating higher. The MFC and MMC both had so much traumatic baggage they were unloading then it would switch to humor then romance it was an odd flow. I also didn't care for the side characters and lately I've read some books with such amazing sides it's like Thanksgiving.
The MMC won me with his career in medicine and then lost me with his wet noodle personality. Mind you I was raised with 4 brothers, all with strong personalities. I don't mind a sweet, sympathetic, cinnamon roll MMC, but Brooks personality would not have made it in a real life ICU.
Though like all wet noodle characters, he has his moment of clarity, wakes up and becomes the man he always wanted to be, but for me... it was too little too late.
Triggers? Death of parents (by history), death of friend (current), 3rd act break up. While I never mention swearing as a trigger as I don't think about it, but there are a lot of F-bombs for those sensitive to language. The reason I noticed here is the amount and odd placement. I like the word more than I should🤣 but it really never had a place in this book.
Narration was good, always enjoy having these options on KU.
A weak 3 stars...
This was cute. It is the best description I can give it. I did not read this authors first book "Tomorrow Never Comes"-apparently the MFC, Carly, is the a crossover to Falling Into Place and she gets her story now.
I have noticed these 'cute' books are not really my cup of tea so please take this review for what it is worth. I like a palate cleanser like the next person but this one wasn't fun or loveable enough that I would recommend.
Of course I always like my HEA. Also always love anytime there is a character in medicine and the lingo is done correctly. MMC Brooks is an Intensivist-ICU physician (longggg time ICU nurse here!) and the medical writing was correct- most people could care less about that in their romance-it is a win for me.
The book has a lot of emotional depth but it is also a rom-com and romance- felt-to me- like a few too many genre that I couldn't pick the right hat to wear to really get into the book. The writing, humor and emotion are well done, it just didn't fit together as seamlessly as I would have enjoyed to bring my rating higher. The MFC and MMC both had so much traumatic baggage they were unloading then it would switch to humor then romance it was an odd flow. I also didn't care for the side characters and lately I've read some books with such amazing sides it's like Thanksgiving.
The MMC won me with his career in medicine and then lost me with his wet noodle personality. Mind you I was raised with 4 brothers, all with strong personalities. I don't mind a sweet, sympathetic, cinnamon roll MMC, but Brooks personality would not have made it in a real life ICU.
Though like all wet noodle characters, he has his moment of clarity, wakes up and becomes the man he always wanted to be, but for me... it was too little too late.
Triggers? Death of parents (by history), death of friend (current), 3rd act break up. While I never mention swearing as a trigger as I don't think about it, but there are a lot of F-bombs for those sensitive to language. The reason I noticed here is the amount and odd placement. I like the word more than I should🤣 but it really never had a place in this book.
Narration was good, always enjoy having these options on KU.
October 26, 2025
Allison Ashley has easily become an auto-buy author and for a few very good reasons. Her books will always have that wonderfully cozy, rom-com vibe that brings forth both laughter and an emotional moment or two. Her characters are incredibly nuanced and relatable, and usually quirky but only in the best ways. And her writing is always quality— the pacing solid and easy to breeze through. So when a new one of hers shows up, I know it’s going to end up a winner.
Falling Into Place, her newest release, is right in line. It felt very easy to connect with right from the start. I am a big fan of all of the tropes included and I think Ashley does an impeccable job of bringing them to the page in a way that still feels realistic (well as realistic as any rom-com can feel). I absolutely loved Brooks and his dynamic with Carly, especially as we get a peek into their past interchanges alongside their present ones. What I loved most though, is that Allison doesn’t shy away from the heavier issues like grief, isolation, and fear of the future, but handles it with care.
If you are looking for a cozy, feel-good, rom-com with more emotional depth than the norm, this may be the perfect one to try. Also good on audio.
Read if you like:
▪️doctor x personal stylist
▪️best friend’s brother
▪️unrequited feelings
▪️cinnamon roll hero
▪️forced proximity
▪️emotional depth
Check out my Bookstagram post here ♥
Thank you Amazon Publishing and Booksparks for the gifed copies.
Falling Into Place, her newest release, is right in line. It felt very easy to connect with right from the start. I am a big fan of all of the tropes included and I think Ashley does an impeccable job of bringing them to the page in a way that still feels realistic (well as realistic as any rom-com can feel). I absolutely loved Brooks and his dynamic with Carly, especially as we get a peek into their past interchanges alongside their present ones. What I loved most though, is that Allison doesn’t shy away from the heavier issues like grief, isolation, and fear of the future, but handles it with care.
If you are looking for a cozy, feel-good, rom-com with more emotional depth than the norm, this may be the perfect one to try. Also good on audio.
Read if you like:
▪️doctor x personal stylist
▪️best friend’s brother
▪️unrequited feelings
▪️cinnamon roll hero
▪️forced proximity
▪️emotional depth
Check out my Bookstagram post here ♥
Thank you Amazon Publishing and Booksparks for the gifed copies.
August 9, 2025
Did you ever "crush" on the sibling of one of your friends? Fantasies about your best friend's brother usually don't turn out well, but what if they did? Falling Into Place by Allison Ashley is a witty rom-com that explores just that, making it the perfect read for a cozy summer day. Take an up-and-coming fashion stylist in Oklahoma and mix it with a broody, reclusive doctor, and you have the perfect mix.
What I Liked About Falling Into Place:
This is a feel-good book, but it was more than that for me. I enjoyed the relationship between the two main characters, Carly and Brooks. Ashley created two characters that were relatable in today's world. Carly, an accoutant who does personal styling on the side, fantasized about her best friend's brother, Brooks, while in high school. Brooks was popular in high school, however, he has changed his ways while becoming a doctor. Now, he would rather tend to his garden and play with his cat in his spare time. When Carly starts styling Brooks in order to get a date, things change for both of them. The idea of getting Brooks ready for his dates on a "Bachelor" adventure around Oklahoma was fun to read.
The most compelling part, though, was the relationship between Brooks and his coach from high school. After Brooks' mom passed away while he was in school, Coach kept pushing him to toughen up and purse his dreams. I think it's sweet how Coach was always there for him. I also resonated with the relationship that Brooks has with his two older sisters. It was these relationships that made me want to keep reading.
"But with love, it's not as much about what you win if you hedge your bets just right. It's about what you stand to lose if you don't."
While the ending may be predictable, the journey to get there, filled with heartwarming subplots and authentic character relationships, is what makes Falling Into Place a truly rewarding read. This is why I gave it four stars.
Where To Buy The Book and More:
Purchase Falling Into Place here: https://amzn.to/3HpDcbG
Read more of my book reviews: https://judiholst.com/book-reviews/
Missed my Top Books of 2024? Find them here: https://judiholst.com/top-20-books-th...
Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake, and Allison Ashley for my free copy of this book. This is my honest review.
Now, I’d love to hear from you: Did you ever have a crush on the sibling of of one of your friends?
What I Liked About Falling Into Place:
This is a feel-good book, but it was more than that for me. I enjoyed the relationship between the two main characters, Carly and Brooks. Ashley created two characters that were relatable in today's world. Carly, an accoutant who does personal styling on the side, fantasized about her best friend's brother, Brooks, while in high school. Brooks was popular in high school, however, he has changed his ways while becoming a doctor. Now, he would rather tend to his garden and play with his cat in his spare time. When Carly starts styling Brooks in order to get a date, things change for both of them. The idea of getting Brooks ready for his dates on a "Bachelor" adventure around Oklahoma was fun to read.
The most compelling part, though, was the relationship between Brooks and his coach from high school. After Brooks' mom passed away while he was in school, Coach kept pushing him to toughen up and purse his dreams. I think it's sweet how Coach was always there for him. I also resonated with the relationship that Brooks has with his two older sisters. It was these relationships that made me want to keep reading.
"But with love, it's not as much about what you win if you hedge your bets just right. It's about what you stand to lose if you don't."
While the ending may be predictable, the journey to get there, filled with heartwarming subplots and authentic character relationships, is what makes Falling Into Place a truly rewarding read. This is why I gave it four stars.
Where To Buy The Book and More:
Purchase Falling Into Place here: https://amzn.to/3HpDcbG
Read more of my book reviews: https://judiholst.com/book-reviews/
Missed my Top Books of 2024? Find them here: https://judiholst.com/top-20-books-th...
Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake, and Allison Ashley for my free copy of this book. This is my honest review.
Now, I’d love to hear from you: Did you ever have a crush on the sibling of of one of your friends?
August 19, 2025
After reading If Tomorrow Never Comes, I was so eager to get Carly’s happily ever after story. This did not disappoint me in the slightest.
Carly’s calling is fashion. She specializes in second hand / bargain clothing finds. Brooks is a doctor who has avoided social life for the last several years due to a heavily work load and schooling. The two get roped together to help a local magazine: Brooks serves as an eligible bachelor. He goes on dates and hypes up local businesses as date night spots. Carly serves as the fashion expert for Brooks. They knew each other a little bit while growing up, since Brooks’ younger sister is Carly’s best friend.
Allison Ashley has become such an auto-buy author for me. Her writing style is comforting and real. I’ve cared deeply for her main characters.
Check it out if your looking for:
💙 best friend’s older brother
💜 doctor x fashion
💙 grumpy x sunshine
💜 cinnamon roll MMC
Pub day is in August! Reading If Tomorrow Never Comes first is not necessary, but I recommend both books 💓
Carly’s calling is fashion. She specializes in second hand / bargain clothing finds. Brooks is a doctor who has avoided social life for the last several years due to a heavily work load and schooling. The two get roped together to help a local magazine: Brooks serves as an eligible bachelor. He goes on dates and hypes up local businesses as date night spots. Carly serves as the fashion expert for Brooks. They knew each other a little bit while growing up, since Brooks’ younger sister is Carly’s best friend.
Allison Ashley has become such an auto-buy author for me. Her writing style is comforting and real. I’ve cared deeply for her main characters.
Check it out if your looking for:
💙 best friend’s older brother
💜 doctor x fashion
💙 grumpy x sunshine
💜 cinnamon roll MMC
Pub day is in August! Reading If Tomorrow Never Comes first is not necessary, but I recommend both books 💓
August 26, 2025
Falling into Place was a slow burn, best friend’s older brother, grumpy sunshine romance that I devoured! This was such a beautiful and emotional story and by that second chapter I was already smiling and laughing out loud. If you love romance that makes you happy and can also make you cry, then definitely add this one on your tbr!
Brooks was a doctor who was all work and no play. Carly was a personal stylist who did accounting on the side. When Brooks was approached to help save his family’s magazine, how could he say no? With styling assistance by his little sister’s best friend, and going on dates at local businesses, Brooks found himself in a whole new world. And as Brooks and Carly worked together, life took them in a way neither of them expected.
Right from the beginning, I loved that they both weren’t what the other expected. So much had changed since they last saw each other. Carly was absolutely adorable and so easy to connect to. And Brooks and his grumpy self made me laugh. But within that first meet up, you could feel the attraction between them. The tension and electricity was so palpable. Yet they both had a job to do. Carly was hoping to get a full-time gig because of this, and Brooks was wanting to save his family’s business.
I absolutely loved Carly and Brooks' interaction! Since they knew each other from the past, their ease with one another felt so real. And as texts, banter, and the most adorable moments were added to the equation, this book was happy inducing! Watching Carly get Brooks to smile made my heart soar! Carly was someone I would love to be besties with! And Brooks was a man who easily captured my heart. The reason he started his garden? Oh, I just wanted to hug him. I just wanted to squish the two of them together so they could see what I saw. These two together were everything!
With practice dating, longing that will have you turning that page to see what happens next, stolen jeans that had me laughing throughout this story, steamy kisses that perfectly led to fade to black moments, and a love story that warmed my heart, I loved this book! Falling into Place is easily one of my favorite contemporary books this year! The story was beyond adorable, but it was emotional too. I cried and then also found myself sobbing my eyes out. But don’t worry, the ending was absolutely beautiful, and I even cried happy tears! I loved Carly and Brooks with all my heart! And this is definitely my favorite book by Allison Ashley! I can’t wait to see what she writes next!
PS Pepper and Oreo were the cutest!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Blog * Instagram * Facebook * Bloglovin * Feedly
“What’s your favorite part of your body?”
“I didn’t think my answer would be helpful for this.”
Her skin flushed and her mouth dropped open, and he realized how that sounded.
“My brain! Not my . . . Fuck. You know.” He wanted to slide under the table. Maybe they should have gone for beers instead. “Sorry that I, um. Said that. Fuck, I mean.”
Hell. He was in hell.
Brooks was a doctor who was all work and no play. Carly was a personal stylist who did accounting on the side. When Brooks was approached to help save his family’s magazine, how could he say no? With styling assistance by his little sister’s best friend, and going on dates at local businesses, Brooks found himself in a whole new world. And as Brooks and Carly worked together, life took them in a way neither of them expected.
He didn’t say anything for a moment, watching her, and she had the urge to fidget under his perusal. Bite her lip or step away or move closer . . . something. It was her job to help clients find their confidence, but something about this felt different. Heavier.
Right from the beginning, I loved that they both weren’t what the other expected. So much had changed since they last saw each other. Carly was absolutely adorable and so easy to connect to. And Brooks and his grumpy self made me laugh. But within that first meet up, you could feel the attraction between them. The tension and electricity was so palpable. Yet they both had a job to do. Carly was hoping to get a full-time gig because of this, and Brooks was wanting to save his family’s business.
“It’s been more fun than I thought it would be.”
She hummed in victory. “Fashion is fun.”
“I don’t think it’s the clothes I enjoy,” he said quietly.
Her heart hiccupped, and she just stared at him.
I absolutely loved Carly and Brooks' interaction! Since they knew each other from the past, their ease with one another felt so real. And as texts, banter, and the most adorable moments were added to the equation, this book was happy inducing! Watching Carly get Brooks to smile made my heart soar! Carly was someone I would love to be besties with! And Brooks was a man who easily captured my heart. The reason he started his garden? Oh, I just wanted to hug him. I just wanted to squish the two of them together so they could see what I saw. These two together were everything!
“It’s just a touch uneven . . . There.” She let her hands rest on his hard chest after she straightened it. The fresh, spicy scent of his soap surrounding her was just delicious, and his body so warm. She leaned in, just a little.
His breath hitched, and he didn’t move for a few seconds. She should move back, now. Walk away. Abort mission.
Heart in her throat, she couldn’t seem to make herself go.
With practice dating, longing that will have you turning that page to see what happens next, stolen jeans that had me laughing throughout this story, steamy kisses that perfectly led to fade to black moments, and a love story that warmed my heart, I loved this book! Falling into Place is easily one of my favorite contemporary books this year! The story was beyond adorable, but it was emotional too. I cried and then also found myself sobbing my eyes out. But don’t worry, the ending was absolutely beautiful, and I even cried happy tears! I loved Carly and Brooks with all my heart! And this is definitely my favorite book by Allison Ashley! I can’t wait to see what she writes next!
PS Pepper and Oreo were the cutest!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Blog * Instagram * Facebook * Bloglovin * Feedly
August 13, 2025
4 stars!
This is such a gorgeous read! A fun, charming, sweet and emotional brother’s-best-friend love story that made me laugh and swoon, I really enjoyed this book.
Carly is an accountant who freelances as a personal stylist. She’s determined to make it a permanent career change and she gets the opportunity of a lifetime with her best friend, Sasha, asks her to work on an upcoming Bachelor-style series for her fashion magazine. She jumps at the chance, and then learns that the bachelor she’ll be styling is Sasha’s brother, Brooks.
Brooks is an introverted and antisocial doctor wrestling with demons from his past. He is dragged into helping his sister and has no idea what he’s in for, but it all starts with an online dating profile and being forced out of his scrubs and comfy jeans by Carly.
Carly remembers Brooks as the high school party boy who all the girls were a little bit in love with, but he never really gave her the time of day. He couldn’t be more different now, and when it becomes clear that he is clueless on how to interact with women, she offers to help him regain his confidence in talking to women. So as Brooks commences his series of dates, styled by Carly, they talk, text and start hanging out. As they become friends, Carly drags Brooks out of his self-imposed isolation, and the banter, teasing and flirting is just fantastic!
You can feel that there is more brewing between them, and it’s a slow burn as they slowly come to realise what they’re feeling for each other. The reveal is awesome, and their coming together is so much fun, but they’re in a really difficult spot with Brooks under agreement to finish his dates for the magazine, and Carly under contract not to get involved with a client. But they just can’t keep away.
In addition to the forbidden-ish element, there is drama and emotion for these two. They’ve both had hard times in the past and they’re struggling with the reality of a relationship and love. They’ve got a lot to figure out, and it’s such a gorgeous journey for them as we watch them work through it all to get their HEA.
I really enjoyed this book. It’s sweet, fun, romantic, and so very heartfelt, I loved Brooks and Carly, and their interactions were so entertaining. It was so gorgeous watching them come together, and I loved their love story.
Such a great read - 4 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is such a gorgeous read! A fun, charming, sweet and emotional brother’s-best-friend love story that made me laugh and swoon, I really enjoyed this book.
Carly is an accountant who freelances as a personal stylist. She’s determined to make it a permanent career change and she gets the opportunity of a lifetime with her best friend, Sasha, asks her to work on an upcoming Bachelor-style series for her fashion magazine. She jumps at the chance, and then learns that the bachelor she’ll be styling is Sasha’s brother, Brooks.
Brooks is an introverted and antisocial doctor wrestling with demons from his past. He is dragged into helping his sister and has no idea what he’s in for, but it all starts with an online dating profile and being forced out of his scrubs and comfy jeans by Carly.
Carly remembers Brooks as the high school party boy who all the girls were a little bit in love with, but he never really gave her the time of day. He couldn’t be more different now, and when it becomes clear that he is clueless on how to interact with women, she offers to help him regain his confidence in talking to women. So as Brooks commences his series of dates, styled by Carly, they talk, text and start hanging out. As they become friends, Carly drags Brooks out of his self-imposed isolation, and the banter, teasing and flirting is just fantastic!
You can feel that there is more brewing between them, and it’s a slow burn as they slowly come to realise what they’re feeling for each other. The reveal is awesome, and their coming together is so much fun, but they’re in a really difficult spot with Brooks under agreement to finish his dates for the magazine, and Carly under contract not to get involved with a client. But they just can’t keep away.
“How was the date?” she asked, standing.
“She wasn’t you.”
In addition to the forbidden-ish element, there is drama and emotion for these two. They’ve both had hard times in the past and they’re struggling with the reality of a relationship and love. They’ve got a lot to figure out, and it’s such a gorgeous journey for them as we watch them work through it all to get their HEA.
I really enjoyed this book. It’s sweet, fun, romantic, and so very heartfelt, I loved Brooks and Carly, and their interactions were so entertaining. It was so gorgeous watching them come together, and I loved their love story.
Such a great read - 4 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2025
3.5⭐️
I thought the friendship here between Brooks and Carly felt very authentic. Their banter and ease with each other just felt very natural. Do I think it was weird that they hadn't seen each other since high-school? A little. Carly is Sasha's (Brooks' sister) best friend but hasn't seen her brother, who lives in the same city and who Sasha sees frequently, in15 years? Surely their paths would have crossed. I also think both of them were far too shocked on how much the other had changed since high school. Someone growing up and being different from 18 to 33 is not shocking at all? I don't know why they kept bringing this up. People mature!
I also didn't like how regarding Carly's job was handled. The sexual harassment complaints, the ending conflict or the resolution. This is what made me drop this from a 4 star, it just really bothered me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
"I've never had so much fun and felt so much in the same moment. You made me happy again, Carly."This was cute! Set in Oklahoma City, we have Carly and Brooks. Carly is an accountant-by-day, personal shopper/stylist by night at Mod. Brooks is a doctor and older brother of Carly's best friend. When the magazine run by Brooks' sisters desperately needs something to draw new readers and Carly needs a fresh idea to pitch to her boss at Mod, they team up. The plan? To have a bachelor type dating series set in OKC and sponsored by Mod. The bachelor they have in mind? Brooks.
I thought the friendship here between Brooks and Carly felt very authentic. Their banter and ease with each other just felt very natural. Do I think it was weird that they hadn't seen each other since high-school? A little. Carly is Sasha's (Brooks' sister) best friend but hasn't seen her brother, who lives in the same city and who Sasha sees frequently, in15 years? Surely their paths would have crossed. I also think both of them were far too shocked on how much the other had changed since high school. Someone growing up and being different from 18 to 33 is not shocking at all? I don't know why they kept bringing this up. People mature!
I also didn't like how regarding Carly's job was handled. The sexual harassment complaints, the ending conflict or the resolution. This is what made me drop this from a 4 star, it just really bothered me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2025
So sweet and heartwarming and just what I needed right now.
August 19, 2025
Thank you BookSparks for the gifted ARC.
ADORED.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Oh yes, this was everything!! I loved how sweet this story was. Gosh it was adorable. The low angst books are really hitting right now and I can’t get enough of them. I loved the set-up for this book. It was realistic and charming and there’s something about two people finding their passion and pursuits for the future that soothe the soul.
Carly and Brooks feel like soul mates. They have this beautiful chemistry that constantly brought them near each other and an undeniable need to be together. I think the heaviness of this book was balanced well between the flirting and dates and all of the sister moments. I didn’t feel weighed down by reading Falling Into Place, rather it brought hope that love (from family or a partner) can help us be better and accept that love in our lives. I sincerely loved Carly and Brooks as separate characters and together.
The audiobook narrator was good but it did bug me that this book didn’t have two because it was dual POV. I would occasionally have to remind myself who’s POV chapter I was listening to because it wasn’t obvious.
Anyways, another Allison Ashley book I just loved!!!!
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: mild
- Romance: 2-3ish vague/brief open door
- Violence: low
- Content Warnings: loss of loved ones (multiple mentioned, on page and recounted), grief depiction
ADORED.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Oh yes, this was everything!! I loved how sweet this story was. Gosh it was adorable. The low angst books are really hitting right now and I can’t get enough of them. I loved the set-up for this book. It was realistic and charming and there’s something about two people finding their passion and pursuits for the future that soothe the soul.
Carly and Brooks feel like soul mates. They have this beautiful chemistry that constantly brought them near each other and an undeniable need to be together. I think the heaviness of this book was balanced well between the flirting and dates and all of the sister moments. I didn’t feel weighed down by reading Falling Into Place, rather it brought hope that love (from family or a partner) can help us be better and accept that love in our lives. I sincerely loved Carly and Brooks as separate characters and together.
The audiobook narrator was good but it did bug me that this book didn’t have two because it was dual POV. I would occasionally have to remind myself who’s POV chapter I was listening to because it wasn’t obvious.
Anyways, another Allison Ashley book I just loved!!!!
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: mild
- Romance: 2-3ish vague/brief open door
- Violence: low
- Content Warnings: loss of loved ones (multiple mentioned, on page and recounted), grief depiction
April 14, 2025
4-4.5 Set in the author's hometown of Oklahoma City, we get a Bachelor-type story that is friends to lovers. Along the way is endless banter (Allison's strong suit), character growth, and some beloved side characters. Allison is an auto-buy author, and there were elements of this one that felt a little different than her other books. Still, Brooks (MMC) working in the medical field fits given Allison's career in oncology, and the banter between Brooks and Carly is top notch.
August 25, 2025
Carly Porter, an accountant and a personal stylist on the side, teams up with her best friend Sasha to give Sasha's brother, Brooks (a reclusive doctor trying to get back into the dating field) a makeover to save Sasha’s struggling magazine. As Carly helps transform Brooks, unexpected sparks fly between them, threatening Carly’s professional goals. To find happiness, both must confront their painful histories and take a risk on love.
I loved this story! It started out light and breezy, which immediately pulled me in, but then it took a deeper turn and explored some heavier topics. The author handled those moments with a lot of care and respect, but I would still recommend checking the trigger warnings beforehand.
The characters were all so lovable, I was rooting for both of them from the very beginning. I loved their banter, and the way they were so oblivious at first was adorable. Watching both of them grow individually throughout the story made their connection even more rewarding.
Overall, this was such a touching and well-balanced read.
This book is also available on KU.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC!
I loved this story! It started out light and breezy, which immediately pulled me in, but then it took a deeper turn and explored some heavier topics. The author handled those moments with a lot of care and respect, but I would still recommend checking the trigger warnings beforehand.
The characters were all so lovable, I was rooting for both of them from the very beginning. I loved their banter, and the way they were so oblivious at first was adorable. Watching both of them grow individually throughout the story made their connection even more rewarding.
Overall, this was such a touching and well-balanced read.
This book is also available on KU.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC!
Read
September 7, 2025I enjoyed this well written and entertaining book. I have loved Allison Ashley’s other books and was definitely looking forward to reading this one. Carly is an accountant by day but an aspiring fashion stylist in her free time. When her best friend Sasha needs help promoting her magazine she enlists Carly to style an eligible bachelor as he goes on dates around town. The bachelor is non other than Carly’s brother Brooks who is roped into her scheme because he would do anything to help his sister and the magazine is a family venture. Carly and Brooks vaguely knew each other as kids so they were quickly comfortable with each other as they worked on this project. As they spent more time together it became apparent that Brooks wouldn’t be an eligible bachelor for long as their chemistry was undeniable. The problem is they have to continue with the promotion so Carly has a shot at being a full time stylist and they are committed to helping the magazine. I loved these characters and the way their relationship developed. Both Brooks and Carly brought some baggage to the relationship and both characters had personal growth throughout the book. Overall another great book from this author and I’m looking forward to more from her.
August 21, 2025
This wasn't bad, but also not great? I was rather bored and it felt like the dialogue was rather wordy, but I'm also still thinking about a book I finished a few days ago (The Auction), so maybe that's had an effect? Book hangovers are rough.
Things I liked: Carly's mom, a recovering addict, who gives good advice on gardening and relationships. It's nice seeing a person turn their life around, you know?
Things I wish would have happened: there's this evil woman who accuses Carly of flirting with her husband, when really he was harassing Carly, and I REALLY wanted some kind of justice to take place (it didn't).
Things I didn't like: the third act breakup and reconciliation. Sometimes, I want them to stay broken up for a long while.
This book was definitely readable, but needed a little something I can't quite figure out. But, I'm not a professional reviewer, so what do I know?!?! 🤷♀️
Things I liked: Carly's mom, a recovering addict, who gives good advice on gardening and relationships. It's nice seeing a person turn their life around, you know?
Things I wish would have happened: there's this evil woman who accuses Carly of flirting with her husband, when really he was harassing Carly, and I REALLY wanted some kind of justice to take place (it didn't).
Things I didn't like: the third act breakup and reconciliation. Sometimes, I want them to stay broken up for a long while.
This book was definitely readable, but needed a little something I can't quite figure out. But, I'm not a professional reviewer, so what do I know?!?! 🤷♀️
August 26, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ Rounded up. I picked this up on KU and ended up reading it faster than I expected.
November 11, 2025
This was SOOOO good I wish it was longer!!! I hope we get more books about Carly and Brooks I could read about them forever
May 10, 2025
⭐️4
🌶️1.5
Carly is trying to land a full time position in fashion consulting so she can quit her day job in accounting. Brooks is a stoic doctor who spends his days off at home gardening alone. In an effort to save their family’s magazine, Brooks’ sister and Carly’s best friend, Sasha, convinces Brooks to be a part of a Bachelor-esque dating article. Sasha brings in Carly to be the stylist for all the dates and photo shoots. Brooks is supposed to be out on dates finding love, but he might find it in the most unlikely place.
This was a fun and simultaneously heartbreaking read. The banter was great, especially loved the epistolary style writing of their text exchanges. Being from the OKC metro it was fun to read about familiar places and events. Brooks was a sweet MMC or “brunch daddy” as Allison Ashley would call him 😆. Overall, I enjoyed this story. A few aspects in the story felt a tiny bit disjointed, is the only thing making it a 4 star read for me.
✨fashion industry
✨interconnected standalone
✨best friends brother
✨forced proximity
✨friends to lovers
✨grumpy/sunshine
✨cinnamon roll MMC
✨dual pov
🛑TW: parent death, car accident, heart attack
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book!
🌶️1.5
Carly is trying to land a full time position in fashion consulting so she can quit her day job in accounting. Brooks is a stoic doctor who spends his days off at home gardening alone. In an effort to save their family’s magazine, Brooks’ sister and Carly’s best friend, Sasha, convinces Brooks to be a part of a Bachelor-esque dating article. Sasha brings in Carly to be the stylist for all the dates and photo shoots. Brooks is supposed to be out on dates finding love, but he might find it in the most unlikely place.
This was a fun and simultaneously heartbreaking read. The banter was great, especially loved the epistolary style writing of their text exchanges. Being from the OKC metro it was fun to read about familiar places and events. Brooks was a sweet MMC or “brunch daddy” as Allison Ashley would call him 😆. Overall, I enjoyed this story. A few aspects in the story felt a tiny bit disjointed, is the only thing making it a 4 star read for me.
✨fashion industry
✨interconnected standalone
✨best friends brother
✨forced proximity
✨friends to lovers
✨grumpy/sunshine
✨cinnamon roll MMC
✨dual pov
🛑TW: parent death, car accident, heart attack
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for the advanced copy of this book!
October 7, 2025
Romantic, emotional, and rewarding!
Falling Into Place is a charming, passionate tale that takes you into the lives of Carly, a hardworking, caring personal stylist determined to use her skills to help reinvent her best friend’s brother for the sake of her career, and Brooks, a delectable workaholic who reluctantly agrees to a makeover, only to find himself spending more time with a woman who’s clearly no longer the shy girl he once knew.
The writing is smooth and sultry. The characters are wary, supportive, and sweet. And the story, told from alternating perspectives, sweeps you away into an irresistible tale filled with witty banter, red-hot chemistry, heartfelt emotion, family ties, friendship, light drama, and steamy romance.
Overall, Falling Into Place is a playful, lighthearted, thoroughly enjoyable read that emphasized once again why Allison Ashley is one of my favourite authors.
Falling Into Place is a charming, passionate tale that takes you into the lives of Carly, a hardworking, caring personal stylist determined to use her skills to help reinvent her best friend’s brother for the sake of her career, and Brooks, a delectable workaholic who reluctantly agrees to a makeover, only to find himself spending more time with a woman who’s clearly no longer the shy girl he once knew.
The writing is smooth and sultry. The characters are wary, supportive, and sweet. And the story, told from alternating perspectives, sweeps you away into an irresistible tale filled with witty banter, red-hot chemistry, heartfelt emotion, family ties, friendship, light drama, and steamy romance.
Overall, Falling Into Place is a playful, lighthearted, thoroughly enjoyable read that emphasized once again why Allison Ashley is one of my favourite authors.
September 1, 2025
I loved this first book in this series and had to slow myself down to not read this immediately. I almost wished I HAD because maybe the high I was riding on book one maybe would have put me into the mood for this one. I sadly didn't really love this one- I felt the MMC was too flat and too perfect that it didn't seem realistic at all.
Such a bummer.
Such a bummer.
June 26, 2025
I have adored all of Allison Ashley's previous books and was so excited for another incredible romance. This one might even take my top spot in her author rankings!
Carly is a personal stylist, and she never expects to find love when she partners with her best friend on the makeover of a local bachelor that her friend expects to help boost sales of her magazine. Oh, and the bachelor? Carly's BFF Sasha's older brother Brooks.
The book has plenty of lighthearted moments and fun banter, and the conversations between Carly and Brooks as they went about the business of the makeover had me laughing multiple times. Their connection is clear to everyone but them early on, but there are definitely obstacles to overcome.
Ashley doesn't shy away from deeper topics, from the death of a parent to the fear of feeling strong emotions and opening up to someone new. She handles these topics beautifully, and the conflicts in the book absolutely make sense and feel authentic.
I remain a huge fan of Ashley's work and can't wait to see what she dreams up next!
Carly is a personal stylist, and she never expects to find love when she partners with her best friend on the makeover of a local bachelor that her friend expects to help boost sales of her magazine. Oh, and the bachelor? Carly's BFF Sasha's older brother Brooks.
The book has plenty of lighthearted moments and fun banter, and the conversations between Carly and Brooks as they went about the business of the makeover had me laughing multiple times. Their connection is clear to everyone but them early on, but there are definitely obstacles to overcome.
Ashley doesn't shy away from deeper topics, from the death of a parent to the fear of feeling strong emotions and opening up to someone new. She handles these topics beautifully, and the conflicts in the book absolutely make sense and feel authentic.
I remain a huge fan of Ashley's work and can't wait to see what she dreams up next!
June 25, 2025
Thanks to Montlake and Allison Ashley for the gifted copy!
Allison just serves EVERY TIME. Remember Carly from IF TOMORROW NEVER COMES? This is her book, and I was so happy to dive in! FALLING INTO PLACE is still medical-adjacent, with an internist MMC, but we also have an accountant-turned-stylist FMC. They are PERFECT for each other. I love that all of Allison's books pull at the heartstrings in addition to making me laugh - I always know that I'm going to experience the whole spectrum of emotions. This time, I found myself unexpectedly crying at 8am from a plot twist I didn't see coming. If you love tender romance, couples that heal together, and storylines with the off-limits trope, you have to read this!
Allison just serves EVERY TIME. Remember Carly from IF TOMORROW NEVER COMES? This is her book, and I was so happy to dive in! FALLING INTO PLACE is still medical-adjacent, with an internist MMC, but we also have an accountant-turned-stylist FMC. They are PERFECT for each other. I love that all of Allison's books pull at the heartstrings in addition to making me laugh - I always know that I'm going to experience the whole spectrum of emotions. This time, I found myself unexpectedly crying at 8am from a plot twist I didn't see coming. If you love tender romance, couples that heal together, and storylines with the off-limits trope, you have to read this!
November 25, 2025
I listened to this audiobook and loved the narration, characters, and story. I always like Allison Ashley's romances and this was no different. Another great love story by Allison Ashley.
August 21, 2025
✅♥️Falling into Place was a fun read!
I loved the main characters, Carly and Brooks!
Their chemistry is truly off the chart and just sooooooo cute!
And, the banter? Hysterical!
The romance was sweet and lovely….
Overall, a fun, heartfelt and touching story I enjoyed reading.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
I loved the main characters, Carly and Brooks!
Their chemistry is truly off the chart and just sooooooo cute!
And, the banter? Hysterical!
The romance was sweet and lovely….
Overall, a fun, heartfelt and touching story I enjoyed reading.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
August 14, 2025
Thank you to Allison Ashley and netgalley for this INCREDIBLE ARC.
Bestfriends brother is one of my all time fave tropes and this one was next level! The whole story had me hooked, and that epilogue 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Carly and Brooks go through the wringer of a story and I couldn’t love it more
Bestfriends brother is one of my all time fave tropes and this one was next level! The whole story had me hooked, and that epilogue 🥰🥰🥰🥰
Carly and Brooks go through the wringer of a story and I couldn’t love it more
April 11, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Montlake via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
“Falling Into Place”, by Allison Ashley, is a lovely, moving story, about the workings of desire, attraction and love in characters marked by loss but still with a notable zest for life.
How a story where the male lead deals with life and death in a constant basis and has been himself affected by personal tragey can be so uplifiting, positive and enjoyable despite his subliminal somber moods is admirable.
I adored the hero, Brooks. What a study in male nerdiness: he’s an intensivist (wonderful depiction of such a demanding medical area) living basically for his job and his patients.
A loner who only socializes in the hospital and who has “been inside his own head for so long”, but a true gem of a person who admits he needs to “get back out into the world” and “have fun again”.
His obliviousness about things as fashion, dating, flirting or his own sex-appeal is downright funny and endearing.
Carly is a great heroine: kind, empathetic, and very talented at her job.
I loved the sincerity between the characters, the lively dialogue, the teasing.
How Brooks and Carly go from being smitten and attracted to something deeper while discovering new dimensions about themselves is an amazing journey.
The secondary characters, the siblings and family relationships and the felines are great, too.
“Falling Into Place”, by Allison Ashley, is a lovely, moving story, about the workings of desire, attraction and love in characters marked by loss but still with a notable zest for life.
How a story where the male lead deals with life and death in a constant basis and has been himself affected by personal tragey can be so uplifiting, positive and enjoyable despite his subliminal somber moods is admirable.
I adored the hero, Brooks. What a study in male nerdiness: he’s an intensivist (wonderful depiction of such a demanding medical area) living basically for his job and his patients.
A loner who only socializes in the hospital and who has “been inside his own head for so long”, but a true gem of a person who admits he needs to “get back out into the world” and “have fun again”.
His obliviousness about things as fashion, dating, flirting or his own sex-appeal is downright funny and endearing.
Carly is a great heroine: kind, empathetic, and very talented at her job.
I loved the sincerity between the characters, the lively dialogue, the teasing.
How Brooks and Carly go from being smitten and attracted to something deeper while discovering new dimensions about themselves is an amazing journey.
The secondary characters, the siblings and family relationships and the felines are great, too.
August 27, 2025
[image error]
When Carly, an accountant with a passion for fashion, gets a chance to boost her career, she never expects her next project to be Brooks—her best friend's brother and a reclusive doctor still grieving a painful loss.
As she works to revamp his wardrobe and his outlook, unexpected sparks fly. But is a chance at love worth risking the dream job she’s worked so hard for?
This book was an emotional, chemistry-filled romance about second chances, healing, and finding love when you least expect it.
Firstly, this book can definitely be read as a standalone, but I’d recommend starting with "If Tomorrow Never Comes" (which I adored!!! Review coming soon, I promise!).
What really stood out to me was the chemistry between Carly and Brooks. Their relationship unfolded so naturally and beautifully, filled with romantic tension that kept me hooked.
The characters felt layered and complex, which made their journey even more compelling. And the author’s writing struck the perfect balance—heartfelt and emotional, yet sprinkled with humor in just the right places. If you're a fan of Christina Lauren and Abby Jimenez's writing style, Alison Ashley’s writing delivers the same charm, heart, and humor you’ll absolutely fall in love with.
My only drawback was the third-person narration. It didn’t bother me in the previous book, but here it made it harder for me to connect with the story and the characters’ inner worlds, and in my opinion, it didn’t quite fit here.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for a contemporary romance with depth, authentic character growth, believable slow-burn chemistry, and a lovely mix of humor and heart, this one’s for you.
And the best part? It’s available on Kindle Unlimited, with audio included!
⭐ I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. ⭐
Tropes:
Forced Proximity
Best Friend’s Older Brother
Doctor Hero
Grumpy × Sunshine
Cinnamon Roll Hero
When Carly, an accountant with a passion for fashion, gets a chance to boost her career, she never expects her next project to be Brooks—her best friend's brother and a reclusive doctor still grieving a painful loss.
As she works to revamp his wardrobe and his outlook, unexpected sparks fly. But is a chance at love worth risking the dream job she’s worked so hard for?
This book was an emotional, chemistry-filled romance about second chances, healing, and finding love when you least expect it.
Firstly, this book can definitely be read as a standalone, but I’d recommend starting with "If Tomorrow Never Comes" (which I adored!!! Review coming soon, I promise!).
What really stood out to me was the chemistry between Carly and Brooks. Their relationship unfolded so naturally and beautifully, filled with romantic tension that kept me hooked.
The characters felt layered and complex, which made their journey even more compelling. And the author’s writing struck the perfect balance—heartfelt and emotional, yet sprinkled with humor in just the right places. If you're a fan of Christina Lauren and Abby Jimenez's writing style, Alison Ashley’s writing delivers the same charm, heart, and humor you’ll absolutely fall in love with.
My only drawback was the third-person narration. It didn’t bother me in the previous book, but here it made it harder for me to connect with the story and the characters’ inner worlds, and in my opinion, it didn’t quite fit here.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for a contemporary romance with depth, authentic character growth, believable slow-burn chemistry, and a lovely mix of humor and heart, this one’s for you.
And the best part? It’s available on Kindle Unlimited, with audio included!
⭐ I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. ⭐
Tropes:
Forced Proximity
Best Friend’s Older Brother
Doctor Hero
Grumpy × Sunshine
Cinnamon Roll Hero
April 10, 2025
Read if you like: best friend’s older brother, forced proximity, strangers to friends to lovers, closed door
This book just did not hook me at all and I was struggling to get through it. I’ve been looking for another hit from this author and unfortunately I don’t think anything will be as good as Would You Rather 🥲
Carly is a stylist, she’s been hired to help Brooks (her best friend’s older brother) with his fashion. Brooks used to get around a lot but now he’s done a whole 180 and is super awkward and shy and needs a lot of dating help. I honesty didn’t believe this at all, you’re telling me you used to be a player and now you’ve gone so in the opposite direction you stumble when talking to girls? I don’t think so
Unfortunately I wasn’t able to connect to any of the characters, I felt like they didn’t have much personality to them.
Could be a cute story but it fell short.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for this ARC
This book just did not hook me at all and I was struggling to get through it. I’ve been looking for another hit from this author and unfortunately I don’t think anything will be as good as Would You Rather 🥲
Carly is a stylist, she’s been hired to help Brooks (her best friend’s older brother) with his fashion. Brooks used to get around a lot but now he’s done a whole 180 and is super awkward and shy and needs a lot of dating help. I honesty didn’t believe this at all, you’re telling me you used to be a player and now you’ve gone so in the opposite direction you stumble when talking to girls? I don’t think so
Unfortunately I wasn’t able to connect to any of the characters, I felt like they didn’t have much personality to them.
Could be a cute story but it fell short.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for this ARC
April 20, 2025
Falling into Place is the fourth Allison Ashley book I've read, and continues fall within her genre of contemporary romance with medical twist.
Plot Summary: Carly is an accountant by day, but moon-lighting as a fashion stylist. Her best friend's older brother, Dr. Brooks Martin, is her newest client/project. Brooks is going to be featured as a eligible bachelor in a local Oklahoma City magazine, and needs a fresh look. Carly has known Brooks since adolescence, and has always harbored a little crush on him. They were never close in high school, and haven't spent much time together in the 15 years since graduation. Due to their forced proximity to complete the fashion overhaul of Brook's appearance, Carly and Brooks get to know one another as adults, and sparks begin to fly. With her inability to date a client, and his inability to open his heart, is their relationship doomed or will it fall into place?
My Impressions: One of the main reasons I read Allison Ashley's books are the medical/heavy themes always included. Although this particular book had no medical issue between the main characters, Brooks is a doctor so the medical workplace is included a little bit. I appreciated the author's medical knowledge accurately describing the hospital and environment Brooks worked in.
This novel focused more on the emotional development / character growth of both of the main characters. It took me a little longer to get into this book, but it was well done overall. I think both characters showed healthy growth in the way they approached their relationship. (I also enjoyed the cats being included in the story!)
If you liked Abby Jimenez's Say You'll Remember Me, you'll probably like this too!
Content considerations: Heavy use of strong profanity (f---), romantic scenes between unmarried couple with descriptive making-out that fades to black, innuendoes, heavy issues.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for the the complementary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. My review is my own opinion and is in no way influenced by the author or publisher.
Plot Summary: Carly is an accountant by day, but moon-lighting as a fashion stylist. Her best friend's older brother, Dr. Brooks Martin, is her newest client/project. Brooks is going to be featured as a eligible bachelor in a local Oklahoma City magazine, and needs a fresh look. Carly has known Brooks since adolescence, and has always harbored a little crush on him. They were never close in high school, and haven't spent much time together in the 15 years since graduation. Due to their forced proximity to complete the fashion overhaul of Brook's appearance, Carly and Brooks get to know one another as adults, and sparks begin to fly. With her inability to date a client, and his inability to open his heart, is their relationship doomed or will it fall into place?
My Impressions: One of the main reasons I read Allison Ashley's books are the medical/heavy themes always included. Although this particular book had no medical issue between the main characters, Brooks is a doctor so the medical workplace is included a little bit. I appreciated the author's medical knowledge accurately describing the hospital and environment Brooks worked in.
This novel focused more on the emotional development / character growth of both of the main characters. It took me a little longer to get into this book, but it was well done overall. I think both characters showed healthy growth in the way they approached their relationship. (I also enjoyed the cats being included in the story!)
If you liked Abby Jimenez's Say You'll Remember Me, you'll probably like this too!
Content considerations: Heavy use of strong profanity (f---), romantic scenes between unmarried couple with descriptive making-out that fades to black, innuendoes, heavy issues.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for the the complementary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. My review is my own opinion and is in no way influenced by the author or publisher.
September 7, 2025
This book was full of very good lines from the author- and not even just the romantic lines- like there were some really good life-lesson type ones as well
I think part of the reason I enjoyed this story so much was because of how realistic both characters were, especially their relationship together. I really do love a dual POV, both Brooks and Carly were likable to me. Sure, this was full of the typical romance tropes, but it was written more than well enough. I probably highlighted and annotated this book more than any other I have before.
"I worry more about something happening to him rather than how I'd react if it ever actually did"
With each look and word spoken, just being in his presence and the reminder of how comfortable it was... made it all seem easier. Being with him felt natural.
An absurd warmth bloomed in his chest at her confidence in him. - he'd found himself wanting to make Carly proud.
He was in love with her. When he closed his eyes, he saw her, and when he went to sleep, he dreamed of her. No part of him wanted to be apart from her, even the dark ones. And that was the whole problem.
If you think you weren't a good partner yessterday, start being one today - You're not broken beyond repair, you're just a little rusty in a few places.
She'd thought she was happy before Brooks, but the word took on a whole new meaning after him.
love is a completely different type of risk - with love, it's not as much about what you win if you hedge your bets just right- it's about what you stand to lose if you don't Instead of thinkign about what you could live with in order to simply get by and stick with the status quo, make sure youre not trading that by letting go of sometjing you can't live without.
I'd rather make memories than never experience them in the first place.And I want to make them with you.
"Everybody fails. Nobody wants to, but at least it means you tried. I'd rather give something my all and miss than mark than never try at all, wouldn't you?"
Seriously, out of all the MLs I've read so far, I think Brooks may be my favorite... most of the lines I highlighted were from his POV
Like, really, this book captured what it feels like to truly love someone, I think.
I think part of the reason I enjoyed this story so much was because of how realistic both characters were, especially their relationship together. I really do love a dual POV, both Brooks and Carly were likable to me. Sure, this was full of the typical romance tropes, but it was written more than well enough. I probably highlighted and annotated this book more than any other I have before.
"I worry more about something happening to him rather than how I'd react if it ever actually did"
With each look and word spoken, just being in his presence and the reminder of how comfortable it was... made it all seem easier. Being with him felt natural.
An absurd warmth bloomed in his chest at her confidence in him. - he'd found himself wanting to make Carly proud.
He was in love with her. When he closed his eyes, he saw her, and when he went to sleep, he dreamed of her. No part of him wanted to be apart from her, even the dark ones. And that was the whole problem.
If you think you weren't a good partner yessterday, start being one today - You're not broken beyond repair, you're just a little rusty in a few places.
She'd thought she was happy before Brooks, but the word took on a whole new meaning after him.
love is a completely different type of risk - with love, it's not as much about what you win if you hedge your bets just right- it's about what you stand to lose if you don't Instead of thinkign about what you could live with in order to simply get by and stick with the status quo, make sure youre not trading that by letting go of sometjing you can't live without.
I'd rather make memories than never experience them in the first place.And I want to make them with you.
"Everybody fails. Nobody wants to, but at least it means you tried. I'd rather give something my all and miss than mark than never try at all, wouldn't you?"
Seriously, out of all the MLs I've read so far, I think Brooks may be my favorite... most of the lines I highlighted were from his POV
Like, really, this book captured what it feels like to truly love someone, I think.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 322 reviews