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Colburn Brothers #2
Free Falling
Not yet published
Expected 3 Feb 26College rivals become workplace frenemies-turned-lovers in this warm, sexy contemporary romance from New York Times bestseller Jill Shalvis. First, they were rivals… Now they're stuck with each other…
Retired hockey player Caleb Colburn needs this construction project to prove himself in the family business, but he also needs to recover from the injury that ended his pro career. Too bad Emma Sumner, architect liaison and Caleb's college nemesis, is back in town and assigned to the project. They're going to have to see each other almost every day. Which means once again she'll make his life a living hell.
As for Emma, her job is on the line with this big project, made all the more challenging by the project manager. Caleb was the one who had snagged the scholarship she'd desperately needed to stay in college. She's been living hand to mouth ever since and has no intention of ever forgiving the man.
But the beautiful historic building they're renovating is exactly the kind of project that they both love best. Their surprising common ground and a burning mutual attraction start bringing them closer and closer to a potentially explosive mistake. And that's even before the secrets come out…
Retired hockey player Caleb Colburn needs this construction project to prove himself in the family business, but he also needs to recover from the injury that ended his pro career. Too bad Emma Sumner, architect liaison and Caleb's college nemesis, is back in town and assigned to the project. They're going to have to see each other almost every day. Which means once again she'll make his life a living hell.
As for Emma, her job is on the line with this big project, made all the more challenging by the project manager. Caleb was the one who had snagged the scholarship she'd desperately needed to stay in college. She's been living hand to mouth ever since and has no intention of ever forgiving the man.
But the beautiful historic building they're renovating is exactly the kind of project that they both love best. Their surprising common ground and a burning mutual attraction start bringing them closer and closer to a potentially explosive mistake. And that's even before the secrets come out…
384 pages, Paperback
Expected publication February 3, 2026
14 people are currently reading
1110 people want to read
About the author
Jill Shalvis
386 books13.8k followersJill Shalvis is a NYT, USA Today, and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of small-town romance and romcoms, known for big feels, found family, and plenty of shenanigans.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 8, 2025
Darn it, I need answers! I have a feeling we’ll al be semi-unsurprised by who is behind some nefarious things, but I still don’t know for sure!
But I do know that Caleb is awesome. He and Emma knew each other once. They had a not so pleasant time together, due in large part to deliberate facades by one who thought they needed to be larger than life and also due to misconceptions. And a lost chance at a life changing scholarship. All is explained, and these two do communicate well now. More because Caleb already knows several answers and simply waits for Emma to trust him, but still. Communication.
Emma is difficult to dislike, too. She’s smart and strong and so utterly alone that she can’t trust when anyone seems to actually care. She knows she’s got a lot to work through and with Caleb by her side, I’m pretty sure she’ll get there completely. In fact, I know she will.
I now need answers. I need to know what’s up with Tucker and Hazel. I need more. That’s all. I just finished this and already want to demand more. That’s a sure sign that this is an excellent series if ever there was one!
But I do know that Caleb is awesome. He and Emma knew each other once. They had a not so pleasant time together, due in large part to deliberate facades by one who thought they needed to be larger than life and also due to misconceptions. And a lost chance at a life changing scholarship. All is explained, and these two do communicate well now. More because Caleb already knows several answers and simply waits for Emma to trust him, but still. Communication.
Emma is difficult to dislike, too. She’s smart and strong and so utterly alone that she can’t trust when anyone seems to actually care. She knows she’s got a lot to work through and with Caleb by her side, I’m pretty sure she’ll get there completely. In fact, I know she will.
I now need answers. I need to know what’s up with Tucker and Hazel. I need more. That’s all. I just finished this and already want to demand more. That’s a sure sign that this is an excellent series if ever there was one!
December 14, 2025
Book review: Jill Shalvis Free Falling.
Published by Sourcebooks Casablanca — thank you to the author for my gifted ARC.
There’s something deeply comforting about opening a Jill Shalvis book and knowing, with absolute certainty, that you’re about to get warmth, wit, and a happily-ever-after that feels earned instead of slapped on. Free Falling does exactly that, while also sneaking in layered emotional baggage, workplace tension, and a slow-burn romance that made me alternately swoon and whisper “oh no, feelings” to myself at inconvenient hours.
Caleb Colburn is the middle brother with something to prove. A former hockey star whose career ended painfully early, he’s trying to rebuild his sense of worth inside the family construction business without being treated like the weak link. He’s thoughtful, patient, quietly observant, and—let’s be honest—dangerously attractive in that “I’ll wait until you’re ready” kind of way. Emma Sumner, meanwhile, is running on fumes and sheer determination. She’s smart, guarded, and deeply self-reliant, shaped by years of scraping by and believing that if she doesn’t hold herself together, no one else will.
Their shared history is the emotional backbone of this story. In college, Emma believed Caleb took opportunities she desperately needed, and that resentment has lived rent-free in her head ever since. Now they’re thrown together on a high-stakes renovation project, forced to confront not only their attraction but the misunderstandings that shaped their past. What I appreciated most is that this book allows space for real conversations. These two don’t magically fix everything overnight, but they do talk. They listen. Caleb, especially, gives Emma the time and safety she needs to trust him, and that patience is incredibly attractive.
The romance unfolds slowly and organically, grounded in mutual respect and shared passion for their work. Their chemistry simmers instead of combusts, which made every small moment—a look, a pause, a quiet show of care—feel meaningful. Emma’s vulnerability is handled with compassion, especially around housing insecurity and financial instability, and Caleb’s complicated family dynamics add depth without overwhelming the love story.
Speaking of family, the Colburns continue to be one of Shalvis’s greatest strengths. The sibling banter, the loyalty forged through a difficult childhood, and the way they show up for each other adds warmth and humor to every scene. The sense of community and found family makes Star Falls feel like a place you want to linger, even when the emotional beats hit hard. There’s also a quiet thread of mystery running through the series, and Free Falling adds just enough intrigue to keep me impatient for what comes next.
Favorite quote: “Sometimes falling isn’t about losing control. It’s about trusting there’s someone there to catch you.”
Yes, I highlighted it. No, I will not be taking questions.
This book balances humor and heart beautifully. It made me laugh, ache a little, and root fiercely for two people learning that they deserve love, stability, and a future that isn’t defined by their past mistakes. Free Falling is cozy romance with substance—gentle, emotionally intelligent, and deeply satisfying.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#FreeFalling #JillShalvis #ColburnBrothers #RomanceReads #ContemporaryRomance #EnemiesToLovers #WorkplaceRomance #SlowBurnRomance #BookReview #GiftedARC #SourcebooksCasablanca #RomanceReaders #CozyRomance #SecondChanceLove #BookstagramRomance
Published by Sourcebooks Casablanca — thank you to the author for my gifted ARC.
There’s something deeply comforting about opening a Jill Shalvis book and knowing, with absolute certainty, that you’re about to get warmth, wit, and a happily-ever-after that feels earned instead of slapped on. Free Falling does exactly that, while also sneaking in layered emotional baggage, workplace tension, and a slow-burn romance that made me alternately swoon and whisper “oh no, feelings” to myself at inconvenient hours.
Caleb Colburn is the middle brother with something to prove. A former hockey star whose career ended painfully early, he’s trying to rebuild his sense of worth inside the family construction business without being treated like the weak link. He’s thoughtful, patient, quietly observant, and—let’s be honest—dangerously attractive in that “I’ll wait until you’re ready” kind of way. Emma Sumner, meanwhile, is running on fumes and sheer determination. She’s smart, guarded, and deeply self-reliant, shaped by years of scraping by and believing that if she doesn’t hold herself together, no one else will.
Their shared history is the emotional backbone of this story. In college, Emma believed Caleb took opportunities she desperately needed, and that resentment has lived rent-free in her head ever since. Now they’re thrown together on a high-stakes renovation project, forced to confront not only their attraction but the misunderstandings that shaped their past. What I appreciated most is that this book allows space for real conversations. These two don’t magically fix everything overnight, but they do talk. They listen. Caleb, especially, gives Emma the time and safety she needs to trust him, and that patience is incredibly attractive.
The romance unfolds slowly and organically, grounded in mutual respect and shared passion for their work. Their chemistry simmers instead of combusts, which made every small moment—a look, a pause, a quiet show of care—feel meaningful. Emma’s vulnerability is handled with compassion, especially around housing insecurity and financial instability, and Caleb’s complicated family dynamics add depth without overwhelming the love story.
Speaking of family, the Colburns continue to be one of Shalvis’s greatest strengths. The sibling banter, the loyalty forged through a difficult childhood, and the way they show up for each other adds warmth and humor to every scene. The sense of community and found family makes Star Falls feel like a place you want to linger, even when the emotional beats hit hard. There’s also a quiet thread of mystery running through the series, and Free Falling adds just enough intrigue to keep me impatient for what comes next.
Favorite quote: “Sometimes falling isn’t about losing control. It’s about trusting there’s someone there to catch you.”
Yes, I highlighted it. No, I will not be taking questions.
This book balances humor and heart beautifully. It made me laugh, ache a little, and root fiercely for two people learning that they deserve love, stability, and a future that isn’t defined by their past mistakes. Free Falling is cozy romance with substance—gentle, emotionally intelligent, and deeply satisfying.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#FreeFalling #JillShalvis #ColburnBrothers #RomanceReads #ContemporaryRomance #EnemiesToLovers #WorkplaceRomance #SlowBurnRomance #BookReview #GiftedARC #SourcebooksCasablanca #RomanceReaders #CozyRomance #SecondChanceLove #BookstagramRomance
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Caleb Colburn was a rising hockey star which was cut short by an injury, and he was forced to pivot taking a position at Colburn Construction. He was excited about his new project which would allow him to show he could handle more responsibility until he learned that the new liaison was none other than his college nemesis Emma Sumner. But Emma had changed, and now, Caleb was working hard to prove himself worthy as part of the family business, and he was working even harder to prove to Emma that he was worthy of her heart.
A Shalvis book is ALWAYS a delight! It was wonderful to be back in the slightly chaotic but always bursting with love world of the Colburns. This time around, the focus was on middle brother Caleb. He was put on a pedestal for his sports prowess, but he was not just a buff body and a pretty face. Caleb was a gifted architect with so many layers, and he was willing to put in the work to make others recognized these qualities.
He was shocked to learn that Emma would now be working on the project with him. Though Emma perceived Caleb as her rival, he saw her as a someone who pushed him to be his best in college. He looked forward to their verbal sparring, being challenged by her, and he still found her irresistible. But Emma carried a lot of scars from her past and found it difficult to trust. That would be the biggest challenge for Caleb. Their shared history was something I really loved, and I was happy they were able to clear up a few thing from their past because these two had great chemistry and made a fantastic team.
Though each of these books can be read as a stand alone, I like that Shavis continued with the mystery element from the last book. Once again, the job sites were being vandalized, and the questions of who and why still loomed. I am also curious to get some answer about that as well as finally getting the full scoop on Hazel and Tucker. I can only assume their story is next, and maybe then, Kiera can get an HEA???? (Can you hear me, Jill?)
Overall, this was another hit for me, and I will never tire of the warm and humorous stories Shalvis writes! A great romance plus so much fabulous family time had me laughing and feeling the feels. I had a stupendous time cheering for Caleb and Emma, and I cannot wait to return to this world.
*ARC provided by publisher
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
A Shalvis book is ALWAYS a delight! It was wonderful to be back in the slightly chaotic but always bursting with love world of the Colburns. This time around, the focus was on middle brother Caleb. He was put on a pedestal for his sports prowess, but he was not just a buff body and a pretty face. Caleb was a gifted architect with so many layers, and he was willing to put in the work to make others recognized these qualities.
He was shocked to learn that Emma would now be working on the project with him. Though Emma perceived Caleb as her rival, he saw her as a someone who pushed him to be his best in college. He looked forward to their verbal sparring, being challenged by her, and he still found her irresistible. But Emma carried a lot of scars from her past and found it difficult to trust. That would be the biggest challenge for Caleb. Their shared history was something I really loved, and I was happy they were able to clear up a few thing from their past because these two had great chemistry and made a fantastic team.
Though each of these books can be read as a stand alone, I like that Shavis continued with the mystery element from the last book. Once again, the job sites were being vandalized, and the questions of who and why still loomed. I am also curious to get some answer about that as well as finally getting the full scoop on Hazel and Tucker. I can only assume their story is next, and maybe then, Kiera can get an HEA???? (Can you hear me, Jill?)
Overall, this was another hit for me, and I will never tire of the warm and humorous stories Shalvis writes! A great romance plus so much fabulous family time had me laughing and feeling the feels. I had a stupendous time cheering for Caleb and Emma, and I cannot wait to return to this world.
*ARC provided by publisher
BLOG | INSTAGRAM |TWITTER | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
Review of advance copy received from Author
I just L-O-V-E a “he falls first” romance, and Jill Shalvis writes some of the best around!
I really enjoyed Caleb and Emma's story. Caleb is fighting an internal battle. As his feelings for Emma grow, he wants to run, but like an elastic band, something keeps tugging him back into her orbit. Emma’s afraid to let anyone in; she not only comes with baggage but a secret, which means keeping Caleb at arm's length.
To the outside world, Caleb never fails, not in hockey, school, or business, but growing up, his life was challenging with an abusive father, which left internal scars he hides from everyone but his brothers and sister.
It was always Emma and her mother against the world, until her mother passed. She works hard to put herself through school, wanting not only financial security but to secure a job in the field she loves. However, alone and without a support system, life seems to threaten to defeat her at every turn, which includes Caleb winning the scholarship she thought she had in the bag. After that, he became enemy number one. Several years later, she doesn’t expect to run into him at a job site, let alone feel the air around them sizzle with pent-up attraction.
Slowly, they let down their guards and acknowledge the attraction brewing between them. Will they continue to deny the pull they feel towards one another? What will happen when Caleb finds out Emma's secret? Can they overcome their past and create a future together?
Favorite Lines & Quotes:
"You... calm me.
"You're strong, inside and out. You've got grit, you've got heart, and you've got a fire burning inside you that won't quit. It's unbelievably attractive to me.
"Tell her it only takes one. One person in your whole life to make you stay. And she's that person for you. All those others, none of them made it into your heart. Nothing compares to what you feel for her.
“You don’t think you’re worthy of me staying. But, Emma, I’ve never been with anyone more worthy of love. I fell for you in spite of myself, hopelessly and fully.”
Tropes & Themes:
• He falls first
• Workplace romance
• Dual POV
• Close proximity
• Slow burn
• Found family
• Opposites attract
• Small town romance
I really enjoyed Caleb and Emma's story. Caleb is fighting an internal battle. As his feelings for Emma grow, he wants to run, but like an elastic band, something keeps tugging him back into her orbit. Emma’s afraid to let anyone in; she not only comes with baggage but a secret, which means keeping Caleb at arm's length.
To the outside world, Caleb never fails, not in hockey, school, or business, but growing up, his life was challenging with an abusive father, which left internal scars he hides from everyone but his brothers and sister.
It was always Emma and her mother against the world, until her mother passed. She works hard to put herself through school, wanting not only financial security but to secure a job in the field she loves. However, alone and without a support system, life seems to threaten to defeat her at every turn, which includes Caleb winning the scholarship she thought she had in the bag. After that, he became enemy number one. Several years later, she doesn’t expect to run into him at a job site, let alone feel the air around them sizzle with pent-up attraction.
Slowly, they let down their guards and acknowledge the attraction brewing between them. Will they continue to deny the pull they feel towards one another? What will happen when Caleb finds out Emma's secret? Can they overcome their past and create a future together?
Favorite Lines & Quotes:
"You... calm me.
"You're strong, inside and out. You've got grit, you've got heart, and you've got a fire burning inside you that won't quit. It's unbelievably attractive to me.
"Tell her it only takes one. One person in your whole life to make you stay. And she's that person for you. All those others, none of them made it into your heart. Nothing compares to what you feel for her.
“You don’t think you’re worthy of me staying. But, Emma, I’ve never been with anyone more worthy of love. I fell for you in spite of myself, hopelessly and fully.”
Tropes & Themes:
• He falls first
• Workplace romance
• Dual POV
• Close proximity
• Slow burn
• Found family
• Opposites attract
• Small town romance
October 26, 2025
The Colburn Bros. Book 2 , FREE FALLING is as wonderful a read as book 1 was. Maybe...even better.
There's Caleb, the middle brother in the trio. Former college hockey star. Charming, Witty. Sexy as all you know what. And for me the best part...he wears glasses! Swoon. But he has to wear them to ward off the migraines that cripple him from a devastating career-ending fall during a hockey game. Caleb works with his brothers in their rehabbing/construction business and has been put in charge of a new project. The lead architect of that project? Emma Sumner, a girl he knew in college and who was immune to his wit, charm, and celebrity status.
Or so he thought...
Emma is at a crossroads in her difficult life. She has no real job - she is just subbing for an architect out on maternity leave right now - her apartment building recently burned down so she has nowhere to live but her car, and she has no touchstone family like Caleb does. In college, she was the smartest girl int he room, the one that did 99 percent of the work and took no credit while Caleb got 100% of the adoration. To say she's not his biggest fan is to downplay her feelings.
But...the more these two work together, the more they each realize they were wrong about the other.
Caleb comes to see her as someone so worthy of the love she's never gotten from anyone, and Emma learns that the man she thought was shallow and narcissist is anything but. He's adopted two boxers he found abandoned; his once abusive father now lives with him. He cares for his niece and nephew and his siblings as if his life depends on. Is it any wonder Emma falls for him, hard?
Is it any wonder I did, too? LOL
Thank you to Jill Shalvis for an advanced reader copy of what is sure to be one of my top 5 books of 2026! 5 stars- why can't I give it more??
There's Caleb, the middle brother in the trio. Former college hockey star. Charming, Witty. Sexy as all you know what. And for me the best part...he wears glasses! Swoon. But he has to wear them to ward off the migraines that cripple him from a devastating career-ending fall during a hockey game. Caleb works with his brothers in their rehabbing/construction business and has been put in charge of a new project. The lead architect of that project? Emma Sumner, a girl he knew in college and who was immune to his wit, charm, and celebrity status.
Or so he thought...
Emma is at a crossroads in her difficult life. She has no real job - she is just subbing for an architect out on maternity leave right now - her apartment building recently burned down so she has nowhere to live but her car, and she has no touchstone family like Caleb does. In college, she was the smartest girl int he room, the one that did 99 percent of the work and took no credit while Caleb got 100% of the adoration. To say she's not his biggest fan is to downplay her feelings.
But...the more these two work together, the more they each realize they were wrong about the other.
Caleb comes to see her as someone so worthy of the love she's never gotten from anyone, and Emma learns that the man she thought was shallow and narcissist is anything but. He's adopted two boxers he found abandoned; his once abusive father now lives with him. He cares for his niece and nephew and his siblings as if his life depends on. Is it any wonder Emma falls for him, hard?
Is it any wonder I did, too? LOL
Thank you to Jill Shalvis for an advanced reader copy of what is sure to be one of my top 5 books of 2026! 5 stars- why can't I give it more??
November 26, 2025
Caleb is the middle brother he was the star hockey player in college until he suffered a career ending injury. Thankfully, he had planned to work with his brother, he just started working at Colburn Construction a little earlier than he planned. Emma Sumner never had it easy, she has worked for everything she has and blames Caleb for some of those. He got the scholarship she badly needed plus the internship which would have led to a good career. Instead, she has a lot of debt and started a temp job she hopes will turn permanent. The only problem is she is assigned to a project that Caleb is in charge of.
Caleb is known to be a playboy, but he has felt different about Emma ever since college. She was brilliant, she challenged him and did not make anything easier because he was a hockey player. Emma doesn’t trust him, she thinks he is still the same guy from college, but the more time they spend together she really gets to know the real him and realizes she was wrong about him.
I loved every moment of this book, Emma is a strong female character, she has been through a lot and doesn’t let anything truly get to her. I enjoyed the way these two took the time to get to know each other, it felt organic, real, and felt like the heart of the story. These two characters realized they had more in common than they thought. Caleb’s dogs are one of a kind, I think this author writes the best furry (or feathered) characters in her books, they are always so much fun. Caleb and Emma’s book was a heartfelt story with characters you can’t help but love and root for them to get their HEA, including the rest of the imperfect Colburn clan. I am looking forward to the third Colburn brother.
Received ARC from author for honest review.
5 stars
Caleb is known to be a playboy, but he has felt different about Emma ever since college. She was brilliant, she challenged him and did not make anything easier because he was a hockey player. Emma doesn’t trust him, she thinks he is still the same guy from college, but the more time they spend together she really gets to know the real him and realizes she was wrong about him.
I loved every moment of this book, Emma is a strong female character, she has been through a lot and doesn’t let anything truly get to her. I enjoyed the way these two took the time to get to know each other, it felt organic, real, and felt like the heart of the story. These two characters realized they had more in common than they thought. Caleb’s dogs are one of a kind, I think this author writes the best furry (or feathered) characters in her books, they are always so much fun. Caleb and Emma’s book was a heartfelt story with characters you can’t help but love and root for them to get their HEA, including the rest of the imperfect Colburn clan. I am looking forward to the third Colburn brother.
Received ARC from author for honest review.
5 stars
November 6, 2025
Caleb Colburn was a local golden boy who was a star hockey player in college, until he suffered a career ending injury. He returned to join the family business, Colburn Construction. This is his chance to prove himself, and he is putting every effort into the work. Emma Sumner blamed Caleb for many of her problems in college, he got the scholarship she badly needed plus the internship which could have led to a good career. Instead, she is deeply in debt and has just started a temp job as an architect liaison and suddenly finds herself assigned to a project that Caleb is heading.
Caleb has always been charming, sexy and a man who never stays with a woman he has dated. But he has always felt different about Emma, she was brilliant and made him a better student in college; he appreciates the way she gave him a hard time. Emma doesn’t trust him; everyone has always left her and feels he would do the same. He decides to prove her wrong and try to get her to accept the way they are attracted to each other. Seeing him with his brothers and sister, plus the twin toddlers and his dogs shows Emma a different side of the man she thought she knew.
I really enjoyed the way these two slowly got to know each other and understand how they didn’t realize the problems the other faced in college. The dogs were hilarious, and his father seems to be more aware of what is going on compare to the first book.
Thank you to Jill Shalvis for an advanced reader copy of Free Falling, and the second Colburn brother. This is my honest opinion; this book was just so much fun to read.
Caleb has always been charming, sexy and a man who never stays with a woman he has dated. But he has always felt different about Emma, she was brilliant and made him a better student in college; he appreciates the way she gave him a hard time. Emma doesn’t trust him; everyone has always left her and feels he would do the same. He decides to prove her wrong and try to get her to accept the way they are attracted to each other. Seeing him with his brothers and sister, plus the twin toddlers and his dogs shows Emma a different side of the man she thought she knew.
I really enjoyed the way these two slowly got to know each other and understand how they didn’t realize the problems the other faced in college. The dogs were hilarious, and his father seems to be more aware of what is going on compare to the first book.
Thank you to Jill Shalvis for an advanced reader copy of Free Falling, and the second Colburn brother. This is my honest opinion; this book was just so much fun to read.
October 26, 2025
My favorite of the series so far!!
Caleb Colburn is trying to prove he has what it takes to partner his brother Ryder in the family’s restoration business. There have been some mishaps here and there but he has mostly proven to be the man for the job.
Emma Sumner has had nothing but bad luck but starting over in Star Falls is the start of getting her life back on track. She is a temp for an architect and design company and is the liaison for a big project that the Colburn Brothers Restoration have been hired to do.
Emma never expected to see Caleb again, her nemesis from college, let alone having to work with him. He has everything she has ever wanted and is working so hard for, while she is at rock bottom and trying to hide it.
School enemies turned work nemesis turned reluctant friends to maybe more… this book is a delightful mix of hilarious sibling interactions, realistic emotional turmoil and learning to find trust in others. I can’t wait for the rest of the Colburns to find their HEA.
Caleb Colburn is trying to prove he has what it takes to partner his brother Ryder in the family’s restoration business. There have been some mishaps here and there but he has mostly proven to be the man for the job.
Emma Sumner has had nothing but bad luck but starting over in Star Falls is the start of getting her life back on track. She is a temp for an architect and design company and is the liaison for a big project that the Colburn Brothers Restoration have been hired to do.
Emma never expected to see Caleb again, her nemesis from college, let alone having to work with him. He has everything she has ever wanted and is working so hard for, while she is at rock bottom and trying to hide it.
School enemies turned work nemesis turned reluctant friends to maybe more… this book is a delightful mix of hilarious sibling interactions, realistic emotional turmoil and learning to find trust in others. I can’t wait for the rest of the Colburns to find their HEA.
October 29, 2025
The second book in the Colburn Brothers series features Caleb, a reluctant college hockey star who is trying to prove himself as a responsible adult who can handle a partnership in the family business, and Emma, an architect who is trying to make her way in the world with very little support from anyone else. These two were rivals in college, but over the course of the book, they each see that they didn't have the full measure of the other, and watching them learn each other really formed the heart of this story. (Yes yes, they're both hot too, and they have great chemistry!)
The sense of family and community in this series is strong, and it's easy to love the entire imperfect Colburn family. I know the series is called Colburn Brothers, but I do hope that Kiera gets a book as well. If anyone deserves to find happiness again ...
This book works as a standalone but is definitely better read in series order because there's an underlying mystery threaded through the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
The sense of family and community in this series is strong, and it's easy to love the entire imperfect Colburn family. I know the series is called Colburn Brothers, but I do hope that Kiera gets a book as well. If anyone deserves to find happiness again ...
This book works as a standalone but is definitely better read in series order because there's an underlying mystery threaded through the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!
November 6, 2025
This book is the second book in the Colburn Brothers series and can be read as a standalone.
This book tells the story of Caleb and Emma. Caleb is the middle brother and a former college hockey player. Emma was in college with Caleb, now an architect whilst also going through a lot of hardship at the moment. From their college days, Emma has had a massive dislike for Caleb. Unfortunately for Caleb, this dislike didn't go away, so when they realise they have to work together on a project, Caleb puts on the charm to win over Emma.
Jill Shalvis does it again with this book. There are a few hard topics throughout this book, so please look up your trigger warnings; however, Jill handles these topics with sensitivity and empathy. This book is beautifully written, and the chemistry between the characters is on fire.
There were a few times where I thought I knew where the plot was going, however, I was pleasantly surprised.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I would recommend it.
A massive thank you to the author for a copy of this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
This book tells the story of Caleb and Emma. Caleb is the middle brother and a former college hockey player. Emma was in college with Caleb, now an architect whilst also going through a lot of hardship at the moment. From their college days, Emma has had a massive dislike for Caleb. Unfortunately for Caleb, this dislike didn't go away, so when they realise they have to work together on a project, Caleb puts on the charm to win over Emma.
Jill Shalvis does it again with this book. There are a few hard topics throughout this book, so please look up your trigger warnings; however, Jill handles these topics with sensitivity and empathy. This book is beautifully written, and the chemistry between the characters is on fire.
There were a few times where I thought I knew where the plot was going, however, I was pleasantly surprised.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I would recommend it.
A massive thank you to the author for a copy of this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2025
Wow! I absolutely ADORED this book! From the very first page I was all in and it gave me all the feels and I could not stop reading it! Full of attraction, insecurity, and family it was the perfect next book in the Colburn Brothers series. While it is part of the series it can definitely be read as a standalone but believe me you will want to read about all of the brothers. I love the Colburn family and the way they are with each other, they push each other’s buttons and bicker but at the end of the day they love each other and support each other. The interactions between Ryder, Caleb, and Tucker make me laugh and when Kiera and the twins are added my heart is so happy. Emma and Caleb, the main characters of this story, are each trying to prove themselves and do everything on their own. Watching them try to resist the connection and sparks between them while they learn to trust was as with life, equal parts frustrating and heart warming.
I highly recommend this book!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I highly recommend this book!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 4, 2025
I really enjoyed this story that surprised me with its depth of topic. It starts off with some serious themes; Caleb and his siblings are dealing with parental abuse due to alcoholism, and the fallout of siblings who have to make the choice to escape and leave the younger ones behind. Emma and Caleb's enemies-to-lovers romance is really fun and feels very realistic. Emma's bad luck that results in her living out of her car is relayed with a lot of compassion and also feels really authentic. One of the topics I thought was handled with so much deftness is Caleb's dad. His strokes leave him vulnerable, changed, and dependent on the very children he abused; their forgiveness and care of him is really moving. The end is satisfying without being cheesy.
4.5 stars.
*I received a review copy from the publisher/author via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once again Jill Shalvis did not disappoint! The Colburn family has quickly become one of my all time favorites-they make me laugh, they make my heart hurt for them and they make me cheer for them. Caleb is a bit on the struggle bus and trying hard to show his brother Ryder he can be trusted with more responsibility at their company. On one of their most important jobs, Caleb finds out he's going to be working with a blast from his past -Emma. Emma isn't happy to be working with Caleb because of their unfortunate college history but Caleb is definitely happy about the situation. Emma doesn't have a clue what's coming her way when she's brought into the Colburn orbit, this was both fun and heart wrenching to watch her accept this family. I don't know if we can blame it on the Legend but Caleb found his one in Emma and watching him fall was a great read. Enjoy!
November 5, 2025
I received this as an ARC and was super excited about reading this since I had loved the first book in this series. This one was good but just didn’t pull me in the way He Falls First did.
I feel like this one was more of a “template” rather than being filled with the quirky humor and characters that I’ve come to love from Jill Shalvis. Yes, I realize that most rom-com books with a happy ending follow a general template or format but Jill’s books usually help me to forget that fact because I laugh and smile so much. In this book, I just didn’t find anything endearing with Emma and frequently just wanted to tell her to get over herself.
I enjoyed the appearances of some of my favorite characters from the first book but appreciate that there isn’t so much of them that you’d feel lost if you started with this book instead. I also loved Caleb’s crazy dogs.
I feel like this one was more of a “template” rather than being filled with the quirky humor and characters that I’ve come to love from Jill Shalvis. Yes, I realize that most rom-com books with a happy ending follow a general template or format but Jill’s books usually help me to forget that fact because I laugh and smile so much. In this book, I just didn’t find anything endearing with Emma and frequently just wanted to tell her to get over herself.
I enjoyed the appearances of some of my favorite characters from the first book but appreciate that there isn’t so much of them that you’d feel lost if you started with this book instead. I also loved Caleb’s crazy dogs.
November 20, 2025
Emma Sumner is down on her luck She still has her sense of humor, although it’s getting harder and harder to access it. I love how we meet her and are introduced to a Clue (the board game) reference right away. It’s also when she meets, once again, Caleb Colburn. He’s actually an old nemesis of Emma’s, at least in her opinion. Ahhh, but he’s also gonna be SO much more!
Both Emma’s and Caleb’s backgrounds will break your heart but their story of how they get together for their HEA is wonderful. Their ups and downs, some amazing work collaborations, and much snark. And Caleb’s family are annoyingly wonderful – just ask him! Ms. Shalvis delivers on her signature heart and humor. And did I mention the snark? It always makes me smile. Highly recommend! @JillShalvis
Both Emma’s and Caleb’s backgrounds will break your heart but their story of how they get together for their HEA is wonderful. Their ups and downs, some amazing work collaborations, and much snark. And Caleb’s family are annoyingly wonderful – just ask him! Ms. Shalvis delivers on her signature heart and humor. And did I mention the snark? It always makes me smile. Highly recommend! @JillShalvis
October 27, 2025
This is book two in the Colburn Brothers series. This time, Caleb falls under the spell of the Falling Stars. The author does a great job weaving mystery and romance together.
Emma and Caleb knew each other back in college, but Emma has always harbored resentment toward him, and Caleb never knew why. When fate and a new project throw them together again, they’re forced to work through their past and their differences as Emma is named the architect for their latest build.
The story did get a little slow and repetitive in the middle, but overall it was enjoyable. The ending leaves readers hanging just enough to set up book three, and I’m curious to see where it goes next.
Emma and Caleb knew each other back in college, but Emma has always harbored resentment toward him, and Caleb never knew why. When fate and a new project throw them together again, they’re forced to work through their past and their differences as Emma is named the architect for their latest build.
The story did get a little slow and repetitive in the middle, but overall it was enjoyable. The ending leaves readers hanging just enough to set up book three, and I’m curious to see where it goes next.
December 5, 2025
I have been a fan of Jill Shalvis for years and she has written another hit with Free Falling. We meet Caleb and Emma and watch how their relationship reconnects after not seeing each other since their time in college. Caleb is working on earning his place with the family business and Emma is trying to make a name for herself while also finding out who she really is. Now being thrown together on a project, is the perfect time to also find each other. Both Emma and Caleb's characters were well developed as well as all the faces we meet throughout the story. This is part of a series but can also be a stand alone story. I highly recommend!!
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December 17, 2025It was so effortless to fall in love with Caleb and Emma. I loved following along with them as they work side by side on a historical landmark restoration project. They have a complicated history and there’s a lot of tension firing between them. Jill’s books always capture my heart and I forget I’m even reading. Such an entertaining and enjoyable story and I felt like I was walking right alongside the characters. They’re so real and lovable and full of spunk. And Caleb having two boxer dogs? Calvin and Klein were my favorite and I loved reading about their goofy antics since I also have a boxer!
Thank you so much Jill for the arc!
Thank you so much Jill for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I am a huge fan of Jill Shalvis. I will read ANYTHING she writes! So I was super excited to get a NetGalley advanced copy of book two Free Falling. The Colburn brothers are back and better than ever! Caleb, ex hockey player and now part of the family construction business meets Emma, their new stand in architect. Only they have met before and have quiet a rivalry past. But working together brings out the best in both and they start to fall in love. But Caleb's past with women is not the best and has lost the family some business, so he is told to stay far away from Emma. As IF!!!! This enemies to lovers trope is super fun and flirty and a quick read.
October 29, 2025
Free Falling the second book in Jill Shalvis' Colburn Brothers series is as delightful as the first book in the series. Emma and Caleb are amazing together and overcome all of the obstacles thrown at them. The author also tosses in a reality check of what a blessing a roof over your head is and how it can easily be taken away. No matter how educated and hard working you are don't take housing security for granted. Just a wake up call for us all, but we are still left with the warm and fuzzies of an HEA we love to read!
November 3, 2025
The second installment of the Colburn brothers is a hit in my book! I already loved Caleb Colburn from meeting him in He Falls First. So it wasn’t hard to pick right back up and enjoy watching him get his HEA. Emma is a great match for Caleb and she doesn’t make it easy for him. I loved watching both characters stretch and grow and learn to trust. If you enjoy reading about characters finding their person, then this book is for you. Also a little mystery going on, so you won’t want to wait for the next book, to find out what’s going on!
Here’s to HEA’s and Jill Shalvis who rocks! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 10, 2025
I’m not really sure what I want to say. I’m pretty sure that I have read everything that Ms Shalvis has written. This one is definitely in the too five! There was just something about Caleb and Emma that I found interesting and enjoyable. Even though they didn’t start out as friends back when they were younger, it was hard to deny their chemistry now. They both had issues in their life that they had to deal with and work through to get where they’re at today. I had a hard time putting their story on hold when I had to do my everyday stuff. But, I knew that I had something to look forward to!
December 3, 2025
We have another fabulous book from this author!! Caleb & Emma are the couple in the second book of this series and I just loved them!! They met in college & weren’t exactly friends so working together at first was awkward. It was funny, emotional, heartwarming, heartbreaking and filled with family love, loyalty. We also had the adorable pups Calvin & Klein in addition to his wonderful family. I’m eagerly awaiting the next book hopefully for Tucker & Hazel. I can’t say enough about this author & her books except that you are missing out if you aren’t reading them!!
December 16, 2025
In the words of Caleb, “Somewhere between completely and utterly,” is how much I love this book!!
This family has my whole heart and I can not wait to see what comes next. The way these siblings not only love each other but how they show up for one another and the way they forgive. It’s just so beautiful and everything a family should be.
Caleb and Emma were so cute and I love that they have a past. The added history added to their chemistry and the yummy angst. I loved experiencing their fall and will be doing a re-read asap!
This family has my whole heart and I can not wait to see what comes next. The way these siblings not only love each other but how they show up for one another and the way they forgive. It’s just so beautiful and everything a family should be.
Caleb and Emma were so cute and I love that they have a past. The added history added to their chemistry and the yummy angst. I loved experiencing their fall and will be doing a re-read asap!
October 27, 2025
I loved this book from the start. It’s a book I like fall into & just enjoy it. Emma is sassy, vulnerable & full of pride. Caleb is trying to prove to himself & his family he can pull his own weight in the company. I enjoyed the back & forth between them. I enjoy the family dynamics of the family in the first book & in this one. I love how the author always included animals & I love Calvin & Klein.
October 30, 2025
Jill Shalvis is a genius in creating all the tension and angst on the journey to a warm, steamy happily ever after. Her characters are formidable but vulnerable They grapple with their “scars” throughout the story and it is so satisfying how they deal with the issues. My favorite part is always the snarky banter because in my family that is what makes a story real. The kids and the pets are always a bonus.
November 9, 2025
Emma's life had crashed down on her a few months ago. She lost almost everything. Now she's rebuilding. Emma is temping a job in hopes of working there full time.
Caleb works with his brothers. They and their sister all come from a rough background.
Caleb met Emma years ago in college. They haven't seen each other in years. Will they be able to get along? I don't want to give away any spoilers, but this is one book that I definitely didn't want it end.
Caleb works with his brothers. They and their sister all come from a rough background.
Caleb met Emma years ago in college. They haven't seen each other in years. Will they be able to get along? I don't want to give away any spoilers, but this is one book that I definitely didn't want it end.
November 15, 2025
Only Jill Shalvis could craft a story talking a couple from college competitors with an intense dislike for each other to soul mates looking to spend the rest of their days with each other (believably). Ms. Shalvis’ writing is so compelling that I felt somewhat like I was intruding on Caleb and Emma’s private moments while reading this beautiful story.
I also absolutely adore all of the secondary characters, especially Calvin and Klein.
I also absolutely adore all of the secondary characters, especially Calvin and Klein.
November 19, 2025
Free Falling is a fun return to Star Falls and the Colburn family. Caleb is the next brother to see the three falling stars, which legend states that he’ll soon find his true love. Only problem? This supposed true love can’t stand him! Emotion, passion, and a pushy family all do their best to help Caleb and Emma accept what everyone else sees with the chemistry and sparks between this couple. This is a very entertaining read, making it hard to put down.
November 26, 2025
Emma has always had to take care of herself. After a devastating fire where she lost everything she is trying to hang in there. Also she is desperately hope to land a permanent job. Running into Caleb Colburn not in her agenda.
Caleb is happy to see Emma and hoping he can convince her to give him a chance. Seeing the stars not what he was expecting. Still he is slowly breaking Emma’s defenses down or so he hopes.
What a beautiful story of taking a chance and risking it all! Loved it!!
Caleb is happy to see Emma and hoping he can convince her to give him a chance. Seeing the stars not what he was expecting. Still he is slowly breaking Emma’s defenses down or so he hopes.
What a beautiful story of taking a chance and risking it all! Loved it!!
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