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Ashfall: A Small Town, Enemies-To-Lovers Romance
Ashes don’t lie. They remember every spark, every touch, every mistake.
It was only supposed to be one night.
One impulsive, reckless night on the beach with the only man I’ve ever truly opened up to. He took my pain away, and in return I left him sleeping in the sand without a word.
Now, because I can’t seem to catch a break, he’s my new boss.
I took this job out of necessity, not to relive the most vulnerable moment of my life every time I walk into his office. But Ashton Tyler hasn’t forgotten, and he’s making damn sure I don’t either.
He’s colder than I remember. Sharper. Still stupidly hot. And hell-bent on making me pay for that night, one petty task at a time. I don’t know if he’s trying to punish me or break down the walls I’ve rebuilt.
And the worst part? I’m not sure which one I want more.
Ashfall is the second book in the Emberfield Falls Series. While it is part of an interconnected series, it can be read as a complete standalone. Please check content warnings as this book deals with heavy subject matter that may be sensitive to some readers.
It was only supposed to be one night.
One impulsive, reckless night on the beach with the only man I’ve ever truly opened up to. He took my pain away, and in return I left him sleeping in the sand without a word.
Now, because I can’t seem to catch a break, he’s my new boss.
I took this job out of necessity, not to relive the most vulnerable moment of my life every time I walk into his office. But Ashton Tyler hasn’t forgotten, and he’s making damn sure I don’t either.
He’s colder than I remember. Sharper. Still stupidly hot. And hell-bent on making me pay for that night, one petty task at a time. I don’t know if he’s trying to punish me or break down the walls I’ve rebuilt.
And the worst part? I’m not sure which one I want more.
Ashfall is the second book in the Emberfield Falls Series. While it is part of an interconnected series, it can be read as a complete standalone. Please check content warnings as this book deals with heavy subject matter that may be sensitive to some readers.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2025
10 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
Mala Scott
4 books14 followersMala Scott is a contemporary romance author who writes steamy, emotional love stories featuring resilient heroines and the men who fall hard for them. When she’s not writing about the messy, gritty side of love, Mala can be found lost in a book or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. She lives in California with her husband and kids, where she finds inspiration in everyday moments and the beauty of imperfection.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 11, 2025
Beta - RTC
September 1, 2025
4.5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (rounded up because it deserves nothing less)
I inhaled this book in less than 24 hours—I simply couldn’t put it down! Allie and Ashton’s story was everything I wanted and more. Allie was a feisty FMC who could more than hold her own, and Ashton… wow. I love a persistent, grumpy MMC, and he did not disappoint.
Second-chance romances aren’t always my favourite, but Mala Scott delivered this one beautifully. I read it as a standalone, but now I have no doubt I’ll be going back to read book one.
Huge thank you to Mala Scott for the ARC.
I inhaled this book in less than 24 hours—I simply couldn’t put it down! Allie and Ashton’s story was everything I wanted and more. Allie was a feisty FMC who could more than hold her own, and Ashton… wow. I love a persistent, grumpy MMC, and he did not disappoint.
Second-chance romances aren’t always my favourite, but Mala Scott delivered this one beautifully. I read it as a standalone, but now I have no doubt I’ll be going back to read book one.
Huge thank you to Mala Scott for the ARC.
August 25, 2025
Nik’s Arc Review
💋 Ashfall by Mala Scott
💗 Genre: Romance
🗓️ Publish Date: 9/5/2025
Read if you like:
Enemies to lovers
Second chance romance
Forced proximity
📕 Story Premise: 3.5/5
Who Allie doesn’t expect to see on the first day of her new job is Ashton, the man she had a one night fling with on the beach months prior. It doesn’t help that he is still holding a grudge after she ghosted him right after their night together. Will Allie be able to take the heat from her new boss or will she pack up her desk and head back to the unemployment line?
🌶️ Spice Scale: 5/5
This book was HOT HOT HOT! This is not a book to read in public places. Save this one for the privacy of your own room potential readers. If you liked Fifty Shades of Grey, then I think you’ll enjoy this read. 😉
⏰ Flow Factor: 4/5
This book shifts between the point of view of our two leads Ashton and Allie. I enjoyed reading from the pov of both characters, especially during those intimate scenes. It did seem to drag at times, but I was able to breeze through this read easily.
⭐️ Final Verdict: 3/5
Some parts of this book I just wasn’t into, but I was still able to enjoy it. Though there was plenty spicy spice scenes between our leading pair, this wasn’t a couple I was really rooting for or swooning over. I loved Ashton and his sweet and golden retriever boyfriend ways. However, at times I felt there was something more between Allie and Nate as opposed to her and Ashton.
Thank you Mala Scott for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Please follow on Instagram at @momsonplay for more reviews and bookish content!
💋 Ashfall by Mala Scott
💗 Genre: Romance
🗓️ Publish Date: 9/5/2025
Read if you like:
Enemies to lovers
Second chance romance
Forced proximity
📕 Story Premise: 3.5/5
Who Allie doesn’t expect to see on the first day of her new job is Ashton, the man she had a one night fling with on the beach months prior. It doesn’t help that he is still holding a grudge after she ghosted him right after their night together. Will Allie be able to take the heat from her new boss or will she pack up her desk and head back to the unemployment line?
🌶️ Spice Scale: 5/5
This book was HOT HOT HOT! This is not a book to read in public places. Save this one for the privacy of your own room potential readers. If you liked Fifty Shades of Grey, then I think you’ll enjoy this read. 😉
⏰ Flow Factor: 4/5
This book shifts between the point of view of our two leads Ashton and Allie. I enjoyed reading from the pov of both characters, especially during those intimate scenes. It did seem to drag at times, but I was able to breeze through this read easily.
⭐️ Final Verdict: 3/5
Some parts of this book I just wasn’t into, but I was still able to enjoy it. Though there was plenty spicy spice scenes between our leading pair, this wasn’t a couple I was really rooting for or swooning over. I loved Ashton and his sweet and golden retriever boyfriend ways. However, at times I felt there was something more between Allie and Nate as opposed to her and Ashton.
Thank you Mala Scott for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Please follow on Instagram at @momsonplay for more reviews and bookish content!
August 27, 2025
**ARC copy**
The way I was texting my best friend almost constantly, losing my shit over this book, while still trying not to spoil anything for her. I will be forcing her to read it. It took all of 3 days for me to get through and I was loving every second of it. The yearning, the banter, the bickering, all was top tier. Highly recommend preparing snacks before reading. The way the author describes food did make me very hungry.
Reading this book felt like a yap session with your favorite coworker who always has the wildest stories about their love life. The one who always makes work more entertaining because they overshare and talk about people you've never met but now somehow know more about them than you would if you ever actually talk to them.
I did not read the book that came before this one but I did read the extra chapter to this one and do plan on going back and reading the first book because I want more Allie and Ashton and I’m so damn curious on what I missed when it comes to Emory and Luke. I plan on reading the next two books when they come out as well. I have a strong feeling the next one will be about Skylar and Declan and that's a story that I ABSOLUTELY refuse to miss out on.
Alright now to go back to staring at the wall, contemplating life.
The way I was texting my best friend almost constantly, losing my shit over this book, while still trying not to spoil anything for her. I will be forcing her to read it. It took all of 3 days for me to get through and I was loving every second of it. The yearning, the banter, the bickering, all was top tier. Highly recommend preparing snacks before reading. The way the author describes food did make me very hungry.
Reading this book felt like a yap session with your favorite coworker who always has the wildest stories about their love life. The one who always makes work more entertaining because they overshare and talk about people you've never met but now somehow know more about them than you would if you ever actually talk to them.
I did not read the book that came before this one but I did read the extra chapter to this one and do plan on going back and reading the first book because I want more Allie and Ashton and I’m so damn curious on what I missed when it comes to Emory and Luke. I plan on reading the next two books when they come out as well. I have a strong feeling the next one will be about Skylar and Declan and that's a story that I ABSOLUTELY refuse to miss out on.
Alright now to go back to staring at the wall, contemplating life.
September 5, 2025
Ashton and Allie's banter starts in Trustfall and I knew it was going to get even better when they got their own book. The tension between these two as they navigate their enemies to lovers, sharing their best friend, and then are unexpectedly forced together in the workplace really heats up the story right from the start.
Allie is sassy, brave, independent, but so scared of relationships and love after seeing her mother struggle with bad men all her life. Ashton though swoops in like the perfect white knight, cinnamon roll to help show her that kind and gentle men that don't want to control her at least not all the time do exist and that she is capable and worthy of a great love. Once these two steam up the office with their tension, all bets are off and their back and forth is as explosive as it is frustrating. Ashton wants to be all in, but Allie isn't there yet.
Ashfall bring out a riot of emotions and will have you bouncing between swoon, steam, tension, and overwhelming frustration, but every second of this emotional ride is worth it for the absolutely perfect way that these two imperfect characters fall together.
TROPES:
Small Town
Enemies to Lovers
One Night Stand
Hurt x Comfort
Forced Proximity
Thank you to Mala Scott for the ARC.
Allie is sassy, brave, independent, but so scared of relationships and love after seeing her mother struggle with bad men all her life. Ashton though swoops in like the perfect white knight, cinnamon roll to help show her that kind and gentle men that don't want to control her at least not all the time do exist and that she is capable and worthy of a great love. Once these two steam up the office with their tension, all bets are off and their back and forth is as explosive as it is frustrating. Ashton wants to be all in, but Allie isn't there yet.
Ashfall bring out a riot of emotions and will have you bouncing between swoon, steam, tension, and overwhelming frustration, but every second of this emotional ride is worth it for the absolutely perfect way that these two imperfect characters fall together.
TROPES:
Small Town
Enemies to Lovers
One Night Stand
Hurt x Comfort
Forced Proximity
Thank you to Mala Scott for the ARC.
September 6, 2025
Happy release day to Ashfall, a spicy second-chance romance that was so enjoyable to read!
I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy of Ashfall by Mala Scott, and this romance has so much: a wild and confident FMC who ghosts the grumpy MMC, only for him to end up her new boss. Banter and bickering between our two leads (did I mention it’s a dual POV!!!!!) that I just ate up with every interaction. And spice that will have you blushing on the subway as you try to shield your screen from fellow passengers.
The second-chance romance is such a special trope. It shows that nothing is ever really over if you don’t want it to be. It shows how, when two people mature and grow, wonderful things can happen. It shows that when you learn to trust, you might end up somewhere you never thought you would. At first glance, you might think our two leads are complete opposites who will never work together, but when you peel back the layers, you find two people who put up such a tough exterior to simply protect themselves from further hurt.
Ashfall is book two in the series (very readable as a standalone), and I will definitely be taking the time to read book one and any others that are to come in the series.
A solid 4 stars!
ARC Review
I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy of Ashfall by Mala Scott, and this romance has so much: a wild and confident FMC who ghosts the grumpy MMC, only for him to end up her new boss. Banter and bickering between our two leads (did I mention it’s a dual POV!!!!!) that I just ate up with every interaction. And spice that will have you blushing on the subway as you try to shield your screen from fellow passengers.
The second-chance romance is such a special trope. It shows that nothing is ever really over if you don’t want it to be. It shows how, when two people mature and grow, wonderful things can happen. It shows that when you learn to trust, you might end up somewhere you never thought you would. At first glance, you might think our two leads are complete opposites who will never work together, but when you peel back the layers, you find two people who put up such a tough exterior to simply protect themselves from further hurt.
Ashfall is book two in the series (very readable as a standalone), and I will definitely be taking the time to read book one and any others that are to come in the series.
A solid 4 stars!
ARC Review
August 31, 2025
⭐ Rating: 4/5 : THIS IS AN ARC READ REVIEW!
Ashfall was such an emotional ride with a mix of tension, vulnerability, and second chances. Allie’s character really hit me in the feels—she grew up watching her mom struggle and swore she’d never let a man have that kind of power over her. Her walls were high, and honestly, I understood why. Ashton, on the other hand, had the picture-perfect life on paper but was drowning in expectations. Seeing these two broken pieces collide? Whew. 🥵
The push and pull between them had me hooked! The sexual tension was strong, but what I loved most was the emotional depth underneath it all. Allie’s strength and Ashton’s persistence made their chemistry so believable. Their history—the one night that changed everything and the bitterness after—added a layer of angst I ate up.
It’s not just spice (though the spice is good!); it’s about learning to trust when you’ve been burned before, and I loved that message. The only thing I wished for was maybe a little more from Ashton’s POV in the aftermath of the fallout- but overall, this was a solid, heartfelt read that kept me turning the pages.
Thank you to the author for the ARC read!
Ashfall was such an emotional ride with a mix of tension, vulnerability, and second chances. Allie’s character really hit me in the feels—she grew up watching her mom struggle and swore she’d never let a man have that kind of power over her. Her walls were high, and honestly, I understood why. Ashton, on the other hand, had the picture-perfect life on paper but was drowning in expectations. Seeing these two broken pieces collide? Whew. 🥵
The push and pull between them had me hooked! The sexual tension was strong, but what I loved most was the emotional depth underneath it all. Allie’s strength and Ashton’s persistence made their chemistry so believable. Their history—the one night that changed everything and the bitterness after—added a layer of angst I ate up.
It’s not just spice (though the spice is good!); it’s about learning to trust when you’ve been burned before, and I loved that message. The only thing I wished for was maybe a little more from Ashton’s POV in the aftermath of the fallout- but overall, this was a solid, heartfelt read that kept me turning the pages.
Thank you to the author for the ARC read!
September 15, 2025
I recieved an advanced copy of Ashfall and am very grateful. I devoured it and throughly enjoyed.
Allie is the most stubborn & guarded FMC i've probably every read but for good reason (didnt mean i didn't want to slap her sometimes 😅😅), underneath she feels it all and is just trying to survive anyway she can while never showing weakness.
Ash seems like the golden rich boy with nothing to worry about, but no one really sees the pressure he's under or the hidden anxiety and need for love and to feel something real.
This book is saturated (in the best way) with black cat FMC x golden retriever MMC vibes. There was something so hypnotic and special about seeing the most closed off FMC crack and show vulnerability for the sweet man and how he loved her unconditionally, scars and all. Allie doesn't believe in love for herself, but she falls anyway, and Ash is there to catch her.
He can't let her go, she doesn't want to let him in - They are explosive together but also the calm, safe haven they both need. While he brings out her very buried soft side, she awakens the possessive dominant side he didn't even know he had. The spice starts out HOT af ( i would gladly get on my knees for either of them 😅) but turns into something so much more - intimate and healing.
The second half of the book had me so in my feels for both our main characters, fraught with past trauma, emotional declarations, mistakes, forgiveness, and one man who refuses to give up.
Allie is the most stubborn & guarded FMC i've probably every read but for good reason (didnt mean i didn't want to slap her sometimes 😅😅), underneath she feels it all and is just trying to survive anyway she can while never showing weakness.
Ash seems like the golden rich boy with nothing to worry about, but no one really sees the pressure he's under or the hidden anxiety and need for love and to feel something real.
This book is saturated (in the best way) with black cat FMC x golden retriever MMC vibes. There was something so hypnotic and special about seeing the most closed off FMC crack and show vulnerability for the sweet man and how he loved her unconditionally, scars and all. Allie doesn't believe in love for herself, but she falls anyway, and Ash is there to catch her.
He can't let her go, she doesn't want to let him in - They are explosive together but also the calm, safe haven they both need. While he brings out her very buried soft side, she awakens the possessive dominant side he didn't even know he had. The spice starts out HOT af ( i would gladly get on my knees for either of them 😅) but turns into something so much more - intimate and healing.
The second half of the book had me so in my feels for both our main characters, fraught with past trauma, emotional declarations, mistakes, forgiveness, and one man who refuses to give up.
August 20, 2025
ARC REVIEW: Releases September 5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
You know I love an FMC I can personally relate to. That always makes the story that much better! Allie is very guarded, takes-no-crap, and fearless…and she makes sure everyone knows it. She needed someone to challenge her and who better than our MMC, Ashton. The author wrote both of these characters to be polar opposites on the surface, but underneath the tough act, they’re both just the same; looking for love and respect from the ones you should never have to earn it from. In reality, that’s a very hard thing to bounce back from, and I loved how the author depicted each internal struggle and turmoil for both of our characters. And trust me…there’s A LOT of struggle. If you like angst and banter, this is the book for you because it never stops. Especially when they finally give in {hint hint}. 😉😉
There is so much character growth in this book I can’t believe the author fit it all into one story! To summarize, if he wanted to, he would. Just saying.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
You know I love an FMC I can personally relate to. That always makes the story that much better! Allie is very guarded, takes-no-crap, and fearless…and she makes sure everyone knows it. She needed someone to challenge her and who better than our MMC, Ashton. The author wrote both of these characters to be polar opposites on the surface, but underneath the tough act, they’re both just the same; looking for love and respect from the ones you should never have to earn it from. In reality, that’s a very hard thing to bounce back from, and I loved how the author depicted each internal struggle and turmoil for both of our characters. And trust me…there’s A LOT of struggle. If you like angst and banter, this is the book for you because it never stops. Especially when they finally give in {hint hint}. 😉😉
There is so much character growth in this book I can’t believe the author fit it all into one story! To summarize, if he wanted to, he would. Just saying.
September 7, 2025
Ashfall by Mala Scott hooked me right from the start with one of my favorite setups, a one night stand that turns out to be with the boss. What was supposed to be fleeting suddenly becomes complicated, messy, and oh so addictive.
The chemistry between the leads is explosive, filled with tension, heat, and the constant push pull of what they shouldn’t want but can’t resist. I loved how their dynamic was both steamy and emotionally charged, with just the right amount of angst woven in. The workplace element only heightened the stakes, and the author did a great job blending the professional with the personal in ways that kept me flipping pages late into the night.
If you love romance that’s spicy, complicated, and full of passion, this one’s a must read.
Tropes you’ll find: one night stand, boss/employee, forbidden romance, tension filled banter, protective hero, undeniable chemistry
📚 Huge thanks to Mala Scott for this steamy, addictive story!
#Ashfall #MalaScott #BossRomance #OneNightStand #ForbiddenRomance #BookReview #arc
The chemistry between the leads is explosive, filled with tension, heat, and the constant push pull of what they shouldn’t want but can’t resist. I loved how their dynamic was both steamy and emotionally charged, with just the right amount of angst woven in. The workplace element only heightened the stakes, and the author did a great job blending the professional with the personal in ways that kept me flipping pages late into the night.
If you love romance that’s spicy, complicated, and full of passion, this one’s a must read.
Tropes you’ll find: one night stand, boss/employee, forbidden romance, tension filled banter, protective hero, undeniable chemistry
📚 Huge thanks to Mala Scott for this steamy, addictive story!
#Ashfall #MalaScott #BossRomance #OneNightStand #ForbiddenRomance #BookReview #arc
September 9, 2025
Check Content/Trigger Warnings
5/5 Stars ⭐️ 5/5 Spice 🌶
My first book by Mala & whew I am not dissapointed this book was FIRE. Even though this is book two in the Emberfield Falls duet I didn't feel like I really missed anything from not reading book one as it gives me an idea of what happens so obviously you don't have to read in order but I will most definitely read book one as I want to know more on the full story there but these two characters in book two Ashton and Allie have some issues they must work out together after a one night stand that left them both changed and then after months of not seeing they both end up working together with Ashton being Allies boss and making her life a hassle after she abandoned him that night without any answers and now they must figure out if they can put the past behind them or if it has ruined them forever. To see what happens and what Ashton puts Allie through and to get her to open up then pick up this awesome read today. Ends with a HEA.
5/5 Stars ⭐️ 5/5 Spice 🌶
My first book by Mala & whew I am not dissapointed this book was FIRE. Even though this is book two in the Emberfield Falls duet I didn't feel like I really missed anything from not reading book one as it gives me an idea of what happens so obviously you don't have to read in order but I will most definitely read book one as I want to know more on the full story there but these two characters in book two Ashton and Allie have some issues they must work out together after a one night stand that left them both changed and then after months of not seeing they both end up working together with Ashton being Allies boss and making her life a hassle after she abandoned him that night without any answers and now they must figure out if they can put the past behind them or if it has ruined them forever. To see what happens and what Ashton puts Allie through and to get her to open up then pick up this awesome read today. Ends with a HEA.
September 2, 2025
On StoryGraph, I gave this a 4.5 since Goodreads does not have partial stars available.
Allie and Ashton's characters were so believable, and the fast-paced plot kept me hooked from start to finish. I thought the kinks were handled with great taste—they never felt cheesy and made complete sense with the characters' personalities.
The best part, for me, was the way the conflicts were handled. They all felt resolved and the touch of mystery woven throughout the story made it even more interesting.
Overall, I would definitely read more books in this complementary series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Allie and Ashton's characters were so believable, and the fast-paced plot kept me hooked from start to finish. I thought the kinks were handled with great taste—they never felt cheesy and made complete sense with the characters' personalities.
The best part, for me, was the way the conflicts were handled. They all felt resolved and the touch of mystery woven throughout the story made it even more interesting.
Overall, I would definitely read more books in this complementary series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 10, 2025
This one will live forever in my heart! Ashton and Allie’s pre story in Trustfall already let me know thai was going to be an epic book, and it truly was! Allie is AMAZING, she is brave, fierce, just a little bit crazy and Ashton is the perfect balance of smart arse, boss and the right amount of caring. The amount of things that can and do go wrong for them throughout this book feel so real and reading Allie made me feel like I was Emory listening to my bestie. And as for the spice? Well it's a perfect part of the story and it's hot....
The writing is spot on, with dual POV and sensational characters- I am SO excited for the next one. Thank you for the honour of beta and arc reading this!
The writing is spot on, with dual POV and sensational characters- I am SO excited for the next one. Thank you for the honour of beta and arc reading this!
August 20, 2025
I could not put this book down !! First of all Allie is such a baddie 👏🏼. She holds her own and I see alittle bit of myself in her. Ashton 😮💨that man 👏🏼!! At first I wasnt very sure about it however he ended up winning my heart. The banter between Allie and Ashton had me giggling like I’ve never have before. That one come back about her “faking it” was epic !! That’s the moment I knew this book was a 5 star read for me. This book had the perfect combination of spice , story line , heart felt moments and laughter. I can not wait for the next book. I will be recommending this to everyone I know !!
August 30, 2025
✨Arc review✨
If you guys love your FMC -- Sassy, bold, fearless and not afraid to throw a punch, then buckle up because this book DELIVERS!!!!!
Allie is bold, messy and owns every room she walks Into ✨✨
Watching her navigate love, family and her flaws ?? Heals and break my hearts at the same time 💞💞
Ashton, the guy who thought he could keep his cool, until she sets his life on fire 🔥 🔥 and he falls HARD 🙈🙈
Their love story is raw, messy, ANGSTY
Involved in complicated emotions and heartbreaks
Allie struggled with the idea of falling in love 🥺 but asthin wasn't afraid to fight for the both of them 💝💝
1w
If you guys love your FMC -- Sassy, bold, fearless and not afraid to throw a punch, then buckle up because this book DELIVERS!!!!!
Allie is bold, messy and owns every room she walks Into ✨✨
Watching her navigate love, family and her flaws ?? Heals and break my hearts at the same time 💞💞
Ashton, the guy who thought he could keep his cool, until she sets his life on fire 🔥 🔥 and he falls HARD 🙈🙈
Their love story is raw, messy, ANGSTY
Involved in complicated emotions and heartbreaks
Allie struggled with the idea of falling in love 🥺 but asthin wasn't afraid to fight for the both of them 💝💝
1w
September 4, 2025
**ARC Reader Review**
I definitely was at a disadvantage not reading the first book, which is now on my TBR, but Allie and Ashton, and the banter leading to second chance and then... maybe third chance romance had me obsessed. I truly enjoyed Mala’s writing style and the world she made at The Lantern, and Allie’s despise of Space Buns, iykyk.
As a girly who has a hard time trusting people I saw Allie’s POV on a lot of situations she experienced and know that a lot is perception but having a hard shell that Ashton had to break through time and time again had me swooning!
Definitely not your normal inn with one bed situation though if ya know what I mean.
I definitely was at a disadvantage not reading the first book, which is now on my TBR, but Allie and Ashton, and the banter leading to second chance and then... maybe third chance romance had me obsessed. I truly enjoyed Mala’s writing style and the world she made at The Lantern, and Allie’s despise of Space Buns, iykyk.
As a girly who has a hard time trusting people I saw Allie’s POV on a lot of situations she experienced and know that a lot is perception but having a hard shell that Ashton had to break through time and time again had me swooning!
Definitely not your normal inn with one bed situation though if ya know what I mean.
September 6, 2025
I have been eagerly awaiting this book coming out since reading an ARC of Trustfall, the first book in this interconnected series. Allie was my absolute spirit animal as the BFF in Trustfall, and she lived up to everything I hoped she'd be in Ashfall as the FMC!! She is such a baddie and doesn't take BS from anyone, so it's no surprise that there is a power struggle and spicy-time switch between her and Ash. I love a man who falls hard and fast and just desperately wants her to fall with him. The number of times I was kicking my feet and giggling from the banter was astonishing! You'll love this story if you love a strong, snarky woman and an obsessed man, small towns, and workplace romance.
ARC Review
ARC Review
August 23, 2025
📖- Arc reader
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I was able to set and read this book in one day I couldn’t bring it down I loved the FMC Allie and Ash were great I loved how Allie was able to stand on her and Ash let her and even though it was hard for him. Loved how they were so different from each other but were able to be what each other needed. I loved the fact that we got their back stories and were able to see what made them who they were. This is my first book from this author but it won’t be my last. This book comes out September 5th.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I was able to set and read this book in one day I couldn’t bring it down I loved the FMC Allie and Ash were great I loved how Allie was able to stand on her and Ash let her and even though it was hard for him. Loved how they were so different from each other but were able to be what each other needed. I loved the fact that we got their back stories and were able to see what made them who they were. This is my first book from this author but it won’t be my last. This book comes out September 5th.
August 24, 2025
ARC Review! 4⭐️
Such a captivating story that definitely had my attention from the very beginning! The FMC and MMC were written as complete polar opposites who fit perfectly together into the reverse grumpy x sunshine trope that can sometimes be hard to perfect. I loved that there was so much character growth from both Allie and Ashton throughout the entirety of the book which made it so easy to cheer for them as a couple. I definitely believe that the book captured the ideal amount of banter, spice, and emotion between our two main characters.
Thank you Mala for the ARC!
Such a captivating story that definitely had my attention from the very beginning! The FMC and MMC were written as complete polar opposites who fit perfectly together into the reverse grumpy x sunshine trope that can sometimes be hard to perfect. I loved that there was so much character growth from both Allie and Ashton throughout the entirety of the book which made it so easy to cheer for them as a couple. I definitely believe that the book captured the ideal amount of banter, spice, and emotion between our two main characters.
Thank you Mala for the ARC!
August 31, 2025
Just finished Ashfall by Mala Scott and WOW 😮🔥 This one had me hooked from the very first chapter. It’s raw, emotional and packed with tension, but also full of those little moments of hope that keep you clinging on.
The characters felt so real and the writing is so vivid I could picture every single scene like a movie!
It’s one of those “just one more chapter” reads… until suddenly it’s 1am 🤪📖
If you love stories that are gritty, atmospheric and totally unputdownable, this is 100% one to add to your TBR! 💫
Thank you to the author for sharing this pre-release copy as an arc! 🥰
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
The characters felt so real and the writing is so vivid I could picture every single scene like a movie!
It’s one of those “just one more chapter” reads… until suddenly it’s 1am 🤪📖
If you love stories that are gritty, atmospheric and totally unputdownable, this is 100% one to add to your TBR! 💫
Thank you to the author for sharing this pre-release copy as an arc! 🥰
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
September 3, 2025
*I received a copy of this book as an ARC. This review and thoughts are mine alone.*
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Allie is a grumpy FMC, who isn’t interested in a relationship after watching her mom go through multiple abusive relationships.
Ashton is her new boss, and he has had his eye on her for years while he was the one to make her forget and feel things.
I didn’t LOVE the FMC for a majority of the book. She was a tough cookie, and I started to feel like she was being overly hard on Ash for no reason.
I did end up loving the end, and hope to read more in the future!
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Allie is a grumpy FMC, who isn’t interested in a relationship after watching her mom go through multiple abusive relationships.
Ashton is her new boss, and he has had his eye on her for years while he was the one to make her forget and feel things.
I didn’t LOVE the FMC for a majority of the book. She was a tough cookie, and I started to feel like she was being overly hard on Ash for no reason.
I did end up loving the end, and hope to read more in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2025
The book was great. Had a wonderful strong mfc. She built her walls and protected herself all while nurturing relationships with her found family.
The mmc was such a sweetheart. So much depth and so willing to do anything for the woman who left him alone on the beach. The feisty competitive energy they give in their day to day translated so well to the spicy scenes and helped the story progression flow. The Chaos thing made my heart melt, the light bdsm play was a great addition to their complex love story.
The mmc was such a sweetheart. So much depth and so willing to do anything for the woman who left him alone on the beach. The feisty competitive energy they give in their day to day translated so well to the spicy scenes and helped the story progression flow. The Chaos thing made my heart melt, the light bdsm play was a great addition to their complex love story.
September 8, 2025
Overall I enjoyed this book. It was a bit of a slow start for me. but once it got going I finished it pretty quickly. Allie and Ashton really balance each other out. I love a reverse grumpy x sunshine book cause I love sunshine MMC so much. There was a lot of growth for both characters and I really appreciated that. The spice was yummy and I have no notes on that!😏 I will have to go back and read the first book but I didn't feel like I needed to in order to enjoy this one. Overall great read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 18, 2026
Mala is an auto read author for me now. If she writes it- I will be reading it. I literally could not put this book down!
Ashton and Allie were everything 🤭 The banter was bantering and the spice was spicing 👏🏼👏🏼 They are both switches if that tells you anything 😏
This one quote had me SCREAMING at 1 am.
“Do toys talk?” 😮💨 I’m dead.
I am so looking forward to the rest of this series! Declan and Skyler have me SO curious and I just know Nate is going to be a F-R-E-A-K 🙃
Ashton and Allie were everything 🤭 The banter was bantering and the spice was spicing 👏🏼👏🏼 They are both switches if that tells you anything 😏
This one quote had me SCREAMING at 1 am.
“Do toys talk?” 😮💨 I’m dead.
I am so looking forward to the rest of this series! Declan and Skyler have me SO curious and I just know Nate is going to be a F-R-E-A-K 🙃
August 22, 2025
This was a very good follow up to Emory and Luke’s story. At first, I wasn’t sure about Allie and Ashton’s relationship but as I got farther into the book, it all made sense. Reverse grumpy x sunshine isn’t my favorite so it took me some time to warm up to it. But I love their love so it was all worth it!!
August 26, 2025
I received this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked this book. Once I got going, I flew through it. I loved how these two main characters balanced each other out and both changed for the better throughout the story. I am likely to go back and read book 1 and the books that come later in the series when they are released.
Thank you to the author for giving me this ARC!
I really liked this book. Once I got going, I flew through it. I loved how these two main characters balanced each other out and both changed for the better throughout the story. I am likely to go back and read book 1 and the books that come later in the series when they are released.
Thank you to the author for giving me this ARC!
September 2, 2025
I’m literally sobbing because I loved this book so much I did not want it to be over!😭 Mala Scott had done it again! Everything about this book was incredible. The character’s stories were so complex and I felt all the emotions they had!
🌸Small Town
🌹Enemies To Lovers
🌸Workplace
🌹He Falls First
🌸One Night Stand
🌹Angsty
🌸Small Town
🌹Enemies To Lovers
🌸Workplace
🌹He Falls First
🌸One Night Stand
🌹Angsty
September 2, 2025
4.75 Stars! This boy ok was so good! Ash and Allie are so good together! He is a total golden retriever and she is a strong bad a** independent woman! The banter between these two is chefs kiss! This is enemies to lovers, forced proximity, one night stand, boss x employee romance! Give it a try! It’s book two in the Emberfield Falls series.
September 26, 2025
3.5⭐️ 2🌶️
“Because somewhere between convincing myself to hate her and realizing that it was a lost cause, Allie became my safe place.”
Allie is strong, dominant and feisty. Ashton is her perfect match. The spice is spicy, the relationship is healing and the friendships are perfection. So excited to see what went down between Skylar and Declan.
“Because somewhere between convincing myself to hate her and realizing that it was a lost cause, Allie became my safe place.”
Allie is strong, dominant and feisty. Ashton is her perfect match. The spice is spicy, the relationship is healing and the friendships are perfection. So excited to see what went down between Skylar and Declan.
August 25, 2025
Great read! I love when an author writes an FMC. Who’s a total bad ass! She takes care of herself. She doesn’t need anyone in her life and she does all the things! Great banter between characters definitely strong enemies to lovers. Loved it gonna go back and read the first book
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