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Wild at Heart #2
Falling Stars
Falling for the guy who broke my heart years ago wasn’t on my to-do list when I snuck into his condo.
Maverick Walker was my best friend, my safe place—the boy I trusted with my whole heart—until one reckless kiss in high school ruined everything. Now, he’s an NFL football player, and I’m a struggling small-town hairstylist, newly single and expecting a baby. With my ex gone and someone vandalizing my business, my life feels like it’s crumbling beneath me.
When my best friend Paige suggests hiding out in Maverick’s swanky condo to regroup while he’s recovering from an injury in New York, it seems like a lifeline.
Except he comes home. Unexpectedly. When I’m half-dressed.
Now I’m stuck in his orbit again, unprepared for the way he still makes my heart race. Maverick is charming, ridiculously hot, and as off-limits as ever. But I have bigger problems than his smoldering smile—like figuring out who’s targeting me and why they won’t stop.
As the threats escalate, so do Maverick’s protective instincts. But with his life in New York and mine in Texas, our worlds couldn’t be further apart. And yet, with danger closing in, his arms are the only safe haven I have left.
But how do I let him protect me without risking my heart again—when loving him feels as out of reach as a falling star?
Falling Stars is a single mom, forced proximity, friends to lovers romance with second chance vibes. If you enjoy charming cowboys, sassy heroines, or secretive small towns, this book is for you!
Maverick Walker was my best friend, my safe place—the boy I trusted with my whole heart—until one reckless kiss in high school ruined everything. Now, he’s an NFL football player, and I’m a struggling small-town hairstylist, newly single and expecting a baby. With my ex gone and someone vandalizing my business, my life feels like it’s crumbling beneath me.
When my best friend Paige suggests hiding out in Maverick’s swanky condo to regroup while he’s recovering from an injury in New York, it seems like a lifeline.
Except he comes home. Unexpectedly. When I’m half-dressed.
Now I’m stuck in his orbit again, unprepared for the way he still makes my heart race. Maverick is charming, ridiculously hot, and as off-limits as ever. But I have bigger problems than his smoldering smile—like figuring out who’s targeting me and why they won’t stop.
As the threats escalate, so do Maverick’s protective instincts. But with his life in New York and mine in Texas, our worlds couldn’t be further apart. And yet, with danger closing in, his arms are the only safe haven I have left.
But how do I let him protect me without risking my heart again—when loving him feels as out of reach as a falling star?
Falling Stars is a single mom, forced proximity, friends to lovers romance with second chance vibes. If you enjoy charming cowboys, sassy heroines, or secretive small towns, this book is for you!
408 pages, Paperback
Published July 23, 2025
1585 people are currently reading
3164 people want to read
About the author
Lex Martin
37 books5,669 followersLex Martin is the USA Today bestselling author of Varsity Dads, Texas Nights, and the Dearest series. She writes contemporary romance novels, the steamy kind she hopes her readers love but her parents avoid. A former high school English teacher and freelance journalist, she resides in Texas with her husband and twin daughters. Drop her a line. She loves hearing from readers.
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NEW RELEASE: FALLING STARS is now available! Get your copy here:
EBOOK: https://geni.us/FallingStarsEbook
PAPERBACK: https://geni.us/FallingStarsRegPPBK
DISCREET PAPERBACK: https://geni.us/FallingStarsDiscPPbk
GET A FREE SHORT STORY:
http://bit.ly/2mQLZpX
SUBSCRIBE:
http://bit.ly/2DrPcUi
FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK:
http://on.fb.me/1xbYIVv
JOIN LEX’S FACEBOOK GROUP:
http://bit.ly/2dRXBGE
FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM:
http://bit.ly/2rJMwfN
VISIT HER WEBSITE:
https://www.lexmartinwrites.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 556 reviews
July 25, 2025
I can’t find the words to describe how amazing this book is. 5 stars isn’t nearly enough because Maverick and Baylee are EVERYTHING.
I have said it before but I’m going to say it again, I love that Lex represents so many people is her books because it is what makes her standout and a must read author for me. She writes stories that are easily relatable and as a Hispanic female I love that Baylee is also Latin/hispanic and isn’t afraid to be who she is. She’s so strong and fiercely independent and for me that had me falling in love with her character.
I admired that Baylee wanted to make her own way and didn’t want to take advantage of people. As someone who was also a single mom once, I saw so much of my struggle in her and I love that Lex didn’t make her someone who was ok to just take others money. She is complex but one heck of a woman that’s for sure.
Though Maverick likes to stick his foot in his mouth lol I loved how much he grew. He easily jumped in to help Baylee and didn’t hesitate to step in with her baby. He became her rock and together they were each others safe spaces. I don’t want to drop spoilers but it’s going to be hard to beat Maverick as top Book Boyfriend that’s for sure!
I have said it before but I’m going to say it again, I love that Lex represents so many people is her books because it is what makes her standout and a must read author for me. She writes stories that are easily relatable and as a Hispanic female I love that Baylee is also Latin/hispanic and isn’t afraid to be who she is. She’s so strong and fiercely independent and for me that had me falling in love with her character.
I admired that Baylee wanted to make her own way and didn’t want to take advantage of people. As someone who was also a single mom once, I saw so much of my struggle in her and I love that Lex didn’t make her someone who was ok to just take others money. She is complex but one heck of a woman that’s for sure.
Though Maverick likes to stick his foot in his mouth lol I loved how much he grew. He easily jumped in to help Baylee and didn’t hesitate to step in with her baby. He became her rock and together they were each others safe spaces. I don’t want to drop spoilers but it’s going to be hard to beat Maverick as top Book Boyfriend that’s for sure!
July 25, 2025
Oh my gosh. It's one of my favorite things to read. I guess its a micro trope. One of the MCs has a crush and makes a move and the other one doesn't feel the same way? It leads to so much drama, so much angst.
Childhood friends Maverick and Baylee aren't as close as they used to be. After being rejected years ago, Baylee has kept Maverick at a distance. Which is easier now, since he's playing in the NFL and Baylee is still in their hometown. She has some roots here that have kept her here. She's a stand up girl. Even tho she should have been treated better.
When Baylee finds herself newly single, and expecting her good friend suggests Mavericks condo. He's not using it. Or well, now he is. Somethings brought him home for awhile.
These two may have been friends but theres some regrets and mistakes. And man I loved that Baylee held it to him. I hate instant forgives.
There's also some mystery with Baylee too. Someone is truly trying to ruin her life. That let's Maverick really show her he's ready to stand up for her.
Loved it!
Childhood friends Maverick and Baylee aren't as close as they used to be. After being rejected years ago, Baylee has kept Maverick at a distance. Which is easier now, since he's playing in the NFL and Baylee is still in their hometown. She has some roots here that have kept her here. She's a stand up girl. Even tho she should have been treated better.
When Baylee finds herself newly single, and expecting her good friend suggests Mavericks condo. He's not using it. Or well, now he is. Somethings brought him home for awhile.
These two may have been friends but theres some regrets and mistakes. And man I loved that Baylee held it to him. I hate instant forgives.
There's also some mystery with Baylee too. Someone is truly trying to ruin her life. That let's Maverick really show her he's ready to stand up for her.
Loved it!
July 20, 2025
I’ve sat here and contemplated how I was going to write this review. Lex Martin knows how to captivate you from the first chapter! I couldn’t stop reading Maverick and Baylee’s story.
I haven’t read many friends to lovers and I’m wondering why I haven’t. This book was beautifully written and really sucks you in.
While Baylee and Maverick have had their rocky roads they overcome so much and it made me smile ear to ear.
Without going into any spoilers you have best friends who hit a rough patch and find their way back to one another. Only to realize what they’ve known all along.
Want to know more? Pick it up and let us know what you think.
I haven’t read many friends to lovers and I’m wondering why I haven’t. This book was beautifully written and really sucks you in.
While Baylee and Maverick have had their rocky roads they overcome so much and it made me smile ear to ear.
Without going into any spoilers you have best friends who hit a rough patch and find their way back to one another. Only to realize what they’ve known all along.
Want to know more? Pick it up and let us know what you think.
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July 31, 2025“I’ve tried everything—porn, cam girls, videos women have sent me over the years—and nothing gets my cock to perk up and take notice. The only thing I haven’t tried is a real woman, but things with Kira make me not wanna go there. I suppose if I can’t get off with my hand, then I’m shit out of luck.”
“As I think about the women Maverick’s hung around with over the years, I realize they all have something in common. They’re usually tall, slender, and blonde.”
“Basically, the opposite of me.”
“I do. You turn me the fuck on, Baylee. You always have with your peachy little scent, beautiful face, and that sweet but snarky personality. And if I’m being really honest, the only reason I dated blondes is because they were the opposite of you. Since I couldn’t have the real thing, I didn’t want an imitation. Dating someone who looked nothing like you was just a reminder that it couldn’t be serious. Do you want to know why?”
“Why?”
“Because she wasn’t you.”
“It takes me a solid minute to get a hold of my emotions. “Look, I know it’s not fair to blame you for the past when we weren’t together, but I was honest with you about how this shit affects me. I told you it makes me unhinged, and trust me, I don’t like this version of myself. If you want a chill little girlfriend who falls at your feet and doesn’t care that other women fawn all over you, you should date Nicole. Because that will never be me.”
“If anyone should feel bad, it’s me. Look, I can’t erase my past, but I can make better boundaries with women. I’ve never had a serious relationship before, so I’m navigating new waters here. But I always want you to feel secure ’cause you’re my number one girl.”
“She closes her eyes. “Do you have any idea what it’s like to live in a town where there are constant reminders that you never picked me until it was convenient?”
“What does that mean?”
“Her eyes go glassy again. “I’m your safe space, Maverick. I’m who you come to when you’re in trouble or hurting. It’s no surprise that we finally get together when you’re not sure if you’re going to return to the NFL. You don’t pick me when you’re the big tight end in high school. You don’t pick me when you’re the star football player at Lone Star State. You don’t pick me until you’re hiding out in your condo, wondering if your career is over.”
“Maverick’s ex, Kira, hates me.” But does she hate me enough to snatch my son? Then I think about that fake apology Nicole gave me at the rodeo. “Mav’s other ex, Nicole Ashbury, definitely wants him back.” And given how much of the harassment centered around the salon, it makes me wonder about my competition. “And the Darling Divas probably aren’t my biggest fans.”
“Baylee, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to—”
“The heartache seizing my body instantly turns to anger. “Don’t fucking apologize. That’s worse. Just… erase tonight from your memory.” A treacherous tear tracks down my cheek. “Forget we ever kissed. It never happened. You’re free to fuck Nicole or Penelope or all the goddamn cheerleaders you want.”
“Before he can say anything, I race out of the bedroom.
Some tortured part of me hopes he’ll run after me, but he doesn’t.
And a few weeks later, he goes to homecoming with Nicole.”
“I’m serious, Baylee. You’ve twisted me up like no woman ever has.”
“I’m not sure that’s a compliment.”
“Let me put it this way—no woman has ever compared to you. Trust me, I’ve looked.”
“Oh, I heard all about how you looked long and hard in college.” I turn my back to him and pull up the covers. My eyes sting, and I quietly sniff.
“Don’t do that,” he calls out behind me. “Don’t shut me out.”
“I really don’t want to hear about all the girls you fucked in college, Maverick, so spare me.”
He groans. “I wasn’t the manwhore you think I was. Yeah, I dated, but I didn’t sleep around like Jace.”
A harsh laugh bubbles from my chest. “You were a huge flirt in high school, but you were ten times worse in college. You forget that I came to some of your Lone Star State games. I saw you flirt with every girl in a ten-mile radius, Maverick. Every girl.” I punch my pillow with a huff. “You might not have known what you were doing in high school, but you sure as hell did in college.”
“Baylee, look at me.”
“Go to bed, Maverick.”
“Baylee.”
Turning, I glare at him. “Are you going to pretend you haven’t slept with anyone since we were in high school?” That shuts him up. “Thought so.” I turn away from him and scoot as close to the edge of the bed as possible.
Tomorrow, I’m finding another place to live.
I pull Leo up over my shoulder and burp him on a cloth diaper. “It took me years to date someone, while he ran off and fucked his way through Lone Star State.”
Tilting her head, she pauses. “While I did see him talk to a lot of girls, I never saw him hooking up with anyone. And you know how crazy those football parties got. So I mean, I’m not totally sure the manwhore description is accurate. Aside from Kira, I don’t know who else he ran around with.”
Even his exs mother steals fmcs son bro what is this book i couldnt find any good info about her past while his is CONSTANTLY talked about brooooooo this fmc is a big dumbass
ps they also talk about this jace person and how big of a player he is so beware
“As I think about the women Maverick’s hung around with over the years, I realize they all have something in common. They’re usually tall, slender, and blonde.”
“Basically, the opposite of me.”
“I do. You turn me the fuck on, Baylee. You always have with your peachy little scent, beautiful face, and that sweet but snarky personality. And if I’m being really honest, the only reason I dated blondes is because they were the opposite of you. Since I couldn’t have the real thing, I didn’t want an imitation. Dating someone who looked nothing like you was just a reminder that it couldn’t be serious. Do you want to know why?”
“Why?”
“Because she wasn’t you.”
“It takes me a solid minute to get a hold of my emotions. “Look, I know it’s not fair to blame you for the past when we weren’t together, but I was honest with you about how this shit affects me. I told you it makes me unhinged, and trust me, I don’t like this version of myself. If you want a chill little girlfriend who falls at your feet and doesn’t care that other women fawn all over you, you should date Nicole. Because that will never be me.”
“If anyone should feel bad, it’s me. Look, I can’t erase my past, but I can make better boundaries with women. I’ve never had a serious relationship before, so I’m navigating new waters here. But I always want you to feel secure ’cause you’re my number one girl.”
“She closes her eyes. “Do you have any idea what it’s like to live in a town where there are constant reminders that you never picked me until it was convenient?”
“What does that mean?”
“Her eyes go glassy again. “I’m your safe space, Maverick. I’m who you come to when you’re in trouble or hurting. It’s no surprise that we finally get together when you’re not sure if you’re going to return to the NFL. You don’t pick me when you’re the big tight end in high school. You don’t pick me when you’re the star football player at Lone Star State. You don’t pick me until you’re hiding out in your condo, wondering if your career is over.”
“Maverick’s ex, Kira, hates me.” But does she hate me enough to snatch my son? Then I think about that fake apology Nicole gave me at the rodeo. “Mav’s other ex, Nicole Ashbury, definitely wants him back.” And given how much of the harassment centered around the salon, it makes me wonder about my competition. “And the Darling Divas probably aren’t my biggest fans.”
“Baylee, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to—”
“The heartache seizing my body instantly turns to anger. “Don’t fucking apologize. That’s worse. Just… erase tonight from your memory.” A treacherous tear tracks down my cheek. “Forget we ever kissed. It never happened. You’re free to fuck Nicole or Penelope or all the goddamn cheerleaders you want.”
“Before he can say anything, I race out of the bedroom.
Some tortured part of me hopes he’ll run after me, but he doesn’t.
And a few weeks later, he goes to homecoming with Nicole.”
“I’m serious, Baylee. You’ve twisted me up like no woman ever has.”
“I’m not sure that’s a compliment.”
“Let me put it this way—no woman has ever compared to you. Trust me, I’ve looked.”
“Oh, I heard all about how you looked long and hard in college.” I turn my back to him and pull up the covers. My eyes sting, and I quietly sniff.
“Don’t do that,” he calls out behind me. “Don’t shut me out.”
“I really don’t want to hear about all the girls you fucked in college, Maverick, so spare me.”
He groans. “I wasn’t the manwhore you think I was. Yeah, I dated, but I didn’t sleep around like Jace.”
A harsh laugh bubbles from my chest. “You were a huge flirt in high school, but you were ten times worse in college. You forget that I came to some of your Lone Star State games. I saw you flirt with every girl in a ten-mile radius, Maverick. Every girl.” I punch my pillow with a huff. “You might not have known what you were doing in high school, but you sure as hell did in college.”
“Baylee, look at me.”
“Go to bed, Maverick.”
“Baylee.”
Turning, I glare at him. “Are you going to pretend you haven’t slept with anyone since we were in high school?” That shuts him up. “Thought so.” I turn away from him and scoot as close to the edge of the bed as possible.
Tomorrow, I’m finding another place to live.
I pull Leo up over my shoulder and burp him on a cloth diaper. “It took me years to date someone, while he ran off and fucked his way through Lone Star State.”
Tilting her head, she pauses. “While I did see him talk to a lot of girls, I never saw him hooking up with anyone. And you know how crazy those football parties got. So I mean, I’m not totally sure the manwhore description is accurate. Aside from Kira, I don’t know who else he ran around with.”
Even his exs mother steals fmcs son bro what is this book i couldnt find any good info about her past while his is CONSTANTLY talked about brooooooo this fmc is a big dumbass
ps they also talk about this jace person and how big of a player he is so beware
July 28, 2025
Lex Martin has done it again. Falling Stars completely stole my heart, and I’m honestly still swooning. I’ve been a fan of her storytelling for years (I’ve devoured everything since Shameless), and somehow, she just keeps getting better. This second installment in the Wild at Heart series hit every one of my sweet spots: lovable, complex characters, tons of heartfelt emotion, the perfect blend of tension and tenderness, and that compelling writing style that pulls you in from page one. I was glued to my Kindle the second I picked this one up.
Baylee and Maverick felt so real. This is the kind of romance that makes you believe in second chances. But it’s more than that. Their story has everything I love in a small-town, friends-to-lovers romance: slow-burn chemistry (hello, 3.5🌶️), layered character growth, and emotional stakes that really make your heart squeeze. The history between them adds so much depth to every glance and conversation, and watching them reconnect was raw, hopeful, and honestly kind of magical.
Lex nails that balance of sweetness and spice, and the added layer of suspense gave this story an unexpected edge I really loved. Baylee is strong and grounded, Maverick is swoony in the best way, and together they’re #couplegoals. I truly adored every part of their journey.
If you haven’t started this series yet, grab Stealing Hearts first, then clear your weekend for Falling Stars. And fair warning… you’ll be just as impatient as I am for Burning Stars. Even though these are technically standalones, once you get a taste of Lex Martin’s storytelling, you’re going to want the whole series—trust me. I’ve felt that way since I read Shameless all those years ago, and nothing’s changed.
Story: 5⭐
Spice: 3.5🌶️
Genre:
♥small town romance
Tropes:
♥reformed playboy
♥she falls first but he falls harder
♥childhood friends to lovers
♥single mom & NFL tight end
♥second chance vibes
♥just one bed
♥touch her and die
♥forced proximity
♥cowboy brothers
♥romantic suspense
♥small town
Baylee and Maverick felt so real. This is the kind of romance that makes you believe in second chances. But it’s more than that. Their story has everything I love in a small-town, friends-to-lovers romance: slow-burn chemistry (hello, 3.5🌶️), layered character growth, and emotional stakes that really make your heart squeeze. The history between them adds so much depth to every glance and conversation, and watching them reconnect was raw, hopeful, and honestly kind of magical.
Lex nails that balance of sweetness and spice, and the added layer of suspense gave this story an unexpected edge I really loved. Baylee is strong and grounded, Maverick is swoony in the best way, and together they’re #couplegoals. I truly adored every part of their journey.
If you haven’t started this series yet, grab Stealing Hearts first, then clear your weekend for Falling Stars. And fair warning… you’ll be just as impatient as I am for Burning Stars. Even though these are technically standalones, once you get a taste of Lex Martin’s storytelling, you’re going to want the whole series—trust me. I’ve felt that way since I read Shameless all those years ago, and nothing’s changed.
Story: 5⭐
Spice: 3.5🌶️
Genre:
♥small town romance
Tropes:
♥reformed playboy
♥she falls first but he falls harder
♥childhood friends to lovers
♥single mom & NFL tight end
♥second chance vibes
♥just one bed
♥touch her and die
♥forced proximity
♥cowboy brothers
♥romantic suspense
♥small town
July 20, 2025
Wowza did I binge this book! I’m so hard to get invested in friends to lover books. Most the time I feel like the tension isn’t there or the chemistry is forced, HOWEVER. This book? Not a problem in the slightest. Chemistry, in spades. Tension, just the right amount and god it had me hooked. Meeting Bailey in SH I knew I’d love her as a FMC. She was a don’t give a shit bad ass and couldn’t give a fuck(on the outside) and I loved her. Mav was my man, nothing is sexier than a man falling in love with a baby that isn’t his but treating it like it is. The mystery aspect in this series is so subtle and fun to try and figure out, while the main focus is the couples and they hold their own. Chefs kiss Lex, chefs kiss.
The hints to the next couples are killing me. Just give me a lex, like it’s gotta be Jace right?
The hints to the next couples are killing me. Just give me a lex, like it’s gotta be Jace right?
August 2, 2025
You know how some people have a type?
FMC’s type is garbage. Both her baby daddy and MMC are the worse and she plainly is a forgiving doormat that makes a fuss to convince us she ain’t a doormat.
So, basically we have Bay that she is in love with Mav. She kisses him when in high school and he freaks out and tells her that he doesn’t have any feelings for her.
THAT’S GOOD. THAT’S HOW A NICE GOOD SECOND CHANCE STARTE RIGHT?
Wrong.
He then proceeds to:
- take a cheerleader at prom and f her :) She was his first. This, two weeks after FMC kisses him.
-being flirtatious with anyone
-date a woman that basically hates FMC
AFTER they become a thing, his exes are all over the place. The author tried quite a lot to create an MMC that wasn’t a fckboy or a manwh*re and instead she created an asshole lol at the same time while everyone was saying how he wasn’t messing around that much at the 80% of the book that his flatmates in NY is throwing a party we get this from his pov:
“Maybe Bay’s right. Maybe we’d never survive if we did long distance. Not that I’d entertain a stripper if she and I were dating. We’re not together anymore, and the thought of touching another woman still turns my stomach.”
So, he was messing around lol
The irony of having him back and saying to Bay how he regrets what happened in high school etc etc and then we learn about Nicole and stuff. Or how he says that he is not sure if he wants kids while he started dating the FMC. A SINGLE MOTHER (?)
FMC supposed to have a temper and stuff but she was basically a doormat that was trying to play happy family.
Was that romance ? I mean, depends what’s your expectations when it comes to romance. The couple gets together plainly cause he loses his career, otherwise he’d be messing around with another supermodel (of course, he’d do that cause this supermodel would look nothing like FMC)
The most true part of the book was the one bellow that after she said it, she felt so bad etc etc but it’s how the whole book felt. He didn’t choose her at all until the end of the book.
“I’m your safe space, Maverick. I’m who you come to when you’re in trouble or hurting. It’s no surprise that we finally get together when you’re not sure if you’re going to “return to the NFL. You don’t pick me when you’re the big tight end in high school. You don’t pick me when you’re the star football player at Lone Star State. You don’t pick me until you’re hiding out in your condo, wondering if your career is over.”
FMC’s type is garbage. Both her baby daddy and MMC are the worse and she plainly is a forgiving doormat that makes a fuss to convince us she ain’t a doormat.
So, basically we have Bay that she is in love with Mav. She kisses him when in high school and he freaks out and tells her that he doesn’t have any feelings for her.
THAT’S GOOD. THAT’S HOW A NICE GOOD SECOND CHANCE STARTE RIGHT?
Wrong.
He then proceeds to:
- take a cheerleader at prom and f her :) She was his first. This, two weeks after FMC kisses him.
-being flirtatious with anyone
-date a woman that basically hates FMC
AFTER they become a thing, his exes are all over the place. The author tried quite a lot to create an MMC that wasn’t a fckboy or a manwh*re and instead she created an asshole lol at the same time while everyone was saying how he wasn’t messing around that much at the 80% of the book that his flatmates in NY is throwing a party we get this from his pov:
“Maybe Bay’s right. Maybe we’d never survive if we did long distance. Not that I’d entertain a stripper if she and I were dating. We’re not together anymore, and the thought of touching another woman still turns my stomach.”
So, he was messing around lol
The irony of having him back and saying to Bay how he regrets what happened in high school etc etc and then we learn about Nicole and stuff. Or how he says that he is not sure if he wants kids while he started dating the FMC. A SINGLE MOTHER (?)
FMC supposed to have a temper and stuff but she was basically a doormat that was trying to play happy family.
Was that romance ? I mean, depends what’s your expectations when it comes to romance. The couple gets together plainly cause he loses his career, otherwise he’d be messing around with another supermodel (of course, he’d do that cause this supermodel would look nothing like FMC)
The most true part of the book was the one bellow that after she said it, she felt so bad etc etc but it’s how the whole book felt. He didn’t choose her at all until the end of the book.
“I’m your safe space, Maverick. I’m who you come to when you’re in trouble or hurting. It’s no surprise that we finally get together when you’re not sure if you’re going to “return to the NFL. You don’t pick me when you’re the big tight end in high school. You don’t pick me when you’re the star football player at Lone Star State. You don’t pick me until you’re hiding out in your condo, wondering if your career is over.”
July 24, 2025
4⭐️ | 3.5🌶
It was a great childhood friends to lovers read. I liked that Baylee got her book. She's an admirable character and I loved her determination. I hated what Mav went through but he was able to heal through football and with Baylee & Leo. I'm so curious about Honey and Beau though.... thank you to grey's promotions for the arc.
It was a great childhood friends to lovers read. I liked that Baylee got her book. She's an admirable character and I loved her determination. I hated what Mav went through but he was able to heal through football and with Baylee & Leo. I'm so curious about Honey and Beau though.... thank you to grey's promotions for the arc.
December 11, 2025
Lex Martin is a staple for me in the Not His Baby trope, so I was really eager to give Falling Stars a try. I love the angst of a pregnant or single mother where a friend or different guy steps up to help take care of the baby.
Baylee & Maverick are childhood friends that might have been more and maybe should have. But they end up going separate ways. Maverick ends up in the NFL and Baylee ends up a single mom in their hometown. But when he returns due to an injury and they end up as roommates for a bit, they get a second chance at love, if they can get out of their own way.
There was a lot I wanted to love about this one but I personally had issues with the level of insecurities of the heroine. She got on my nerves with her tough girl act every two seconds. I also didn't like the suspense plot and the other shenanigans that kept happening. Because they began BEFORE Maverick came back to town.... so... they doesn't fully fit the story to me. I don't know, it was off.
Overall, there was cute moments and I loved how Maverick was all in and how supportive his family was of Baylee. I also never mind a dash of lactation kink. So that was hot.
This was narrated in the dual style by Michael Gallagher & Ruby Corazon. They did a great job with their roles and kept the story moving along quite well.
3.5 Stars (rounded up)
3 on the spice scale
CW: Stalking, Child in danger, child kidnapping, sever sports injury
*Thank you to Home Cooked Books Promo and the author for an ALC of this title.*
Baylee & Maverick are childhood friends that might have been more and maybe should have. But they end up going separate ways. Maverick ends up in the NFL and Baylee ends up a single mom in their hometown. But when he returns due to an injury and they end up as roommates for a bit, they get a second chance at love, if they can get out of their own way.
There was a lot I wanted to love about this one but I personally had issues with the level of insecurities of the heroine. She got on my nerves with her tough girl act every two seconds. I also didn't like the suspense plot and the other shenanigans that kept happening. Because they began BEFORE Maverick came back to town.... so... they doesn't fully fit the story to me. I don't know, it was off.
Overall, there was cute moments and I loved how Maverick was all in and how supportive his family was of Baylee. I also never mind a dash of lactation kink. So that was hot.
This was narrated in the dual style by Michael Gallagher & Ruby Corazon. They did a great job with their roles and kept the story moving along quite well.
3.5 Stars (rounded up)
3 on the spice scale
CW: Stalking, Child in danger, child kidnapping, sever sports injury
*Thank you to Home Cooked Books Promo and the author for an ALC of this title.*
August 16, 2025
I enjoyed this but had so many issues, mostly with fmc. She finds out shes pregnant and before she has a chance to tell her boyfriend he breaks up with her for his ex. Her reaction, and immediate jump to not wanting him to be involved really bothered me.
And I understand why her confidence was low, but she made it Mavericks issue.
Also, his coach essentially telling him to break up with her was ridiculous. Male athletes in every position have significant others and telling him not to is just stupid.
And Baylee not wanting to leave for New York...why? None of her immediate family was around, she ran a failing beauty salon, with the exception of her bestie and mmcs family the town treated her like poop.
And I understand why her confidence was low, but she made it Mavericks issue.
Also, his coach essentially telling him to break up with her was ridiculous. Male athletes in every position have significant others and telling him not to is just stupid.
And Baylee not wanting to leave for New York...why? None of her immediate family was around, she ran a failing beauty salon, with the exception of her bestie and mmcs family the town treated her like poop.
July 24, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Another Walker brother down.
Maverick aka the NFL hottest rookie tight end
Baylee
Hairdresser and salon owner. Single mom.
She falls first, he falls harder.
Oh and they were childhood friends and….
Second chance vibes.
Coming home.
There’s a one bed situation. Forced proximity.
There’s a lot of angst and pining.
Romantic suspense in a small town.
Lex Martin does this well.
Drama.
Spice
A fun kink
Arc review ✨
Another Walker brother down.
Maverick aka the NFL hottest rookie tight end
Baylee
Hairdresser and salon owner. Single mom.
She falls first, he falls harder.
Oh and they were childhood friends and….
Second chance vibes.
Coming home.
There’s a one bed situation. Forced proximity.
There’s a lot of angst and pining.
Romantic suspense in a small town.
Lex Martin does this well.
Drama.
Spice
A fun kink
Arc review ✨
August 15, 2025
The constant time jumps and whiplash from both the MMC and FMC made me want to scream. The FMC is literally an idiot and Maverick is a child stuck in an adults body. I’m honestly flabbergasted at all the raging 5 star reviews
July 21, 2025
I legit couldn’t stop reading Falling Stars. I knocked it out in two days. It’s got romance, spice, a little mystery, and some funny moments too. Baylee and Maverick are seriously made for each other. So good!
August 5, 2025
literally so many wasted years. also an wasted hour on this book.
Read
August 18, 2025DNF@ 67% - this book isn’t bad. It just isn’t holding my attention. Had everything I could ever want trope wise, but I legitimately forgot I was reading it and hadn’t read it in over a week, until I opened my goodreads to log another book and saw it sitting there.
July 20, 2025
Loved this ARC so much!
The main characters were childhood best friends until an embarrassing challenge ruins them. Years later, they’re still trying to find their stride again and find the easy rapport they once had.
Baylee would give anything to turn back time and rewrite their past, but she has to focus on the present: Her newborn son. Meanwhile, Maverick’s life is turned upside down by an injury that leaves him sidelined and in desperate need of an escape.
I loved the way their two very different stressors ended up bringing them together. Right away, it’s so clear that they’re perfect for each other. It was so much fun watching them figure that out for themselves under one roof. This felt less like a second chance at love, and more like they were the right people at the wrong time. All they needed was a little bit of time.
This book was filled with so much cuteness and a great mystery/suspense undertone. It was so entertaining to try to piece together who was targeting Baylee. As always, I was incredibly wrong. I highly recommend picking this series up. They’re incredibly fast reads and so much fun.
The main characters were childhood best friends until an embarrassing challenge ruins them. Years later, they’re still trying to find their stride again and find the easy rapport they once had.
Baylee would give anything to turn back time and rewrite their past, but she has to focus on the present: Her newborn son. Meanwhile, Maverick’s life is turned upside down by an injury that leaves him sidelined and in desperate need of an escape.
I loved the way their two very different stressors ended up bringing them together. Right away, it’s so clear that they’re perfect for each other. It was so much fun watching them figure that out for themselves under one roof. This felt less like a second chance at love, and more like they were the right people at the wrong time. All they needed was a little bit of time.
This book was filled with so much cuteness and a great mystery/suspense undertone. It was so entertaining to try to piece together who was targeting Baylee. As always, I was incredibly wrong. I highly recommend picking this series up. They’re incredibly fast reads and so much fun.
July 21, 2025
This was such a beautiful friends to lovers romance. Maverick and Baylee have been best friends since they were young, but Baylee was always harbouring secret feelings until a kiss disrupts their friendship and not in a good way.
Fast forward several years, and Baylee and Maverick aren't as close.
Baylee broke my heart a lot in this book. She felt second best, and she struggled to make ends meet. Combined with a shitty ex and a surprise pregnancy, life wasn't doing her any favours.
Maverick is a successful NFL player who is back in town rehabbing from an injury, and Baylee is the only person he wants to be around.
These two had some serious chemistry, and I really enjoyed the second chance vibes these two gave off. Not only did we get lots of pining, but we also had a mystery plot alongside the romance. A mystery stalker who's out to hurt Baylee.
I really enjoyed this book. As soon as I started, I struggled to put it down as I was engrossed. I really enjoyed the suspense in this book and all the cute baby moments.
I'm really looking forward to Beau's book next.
Fast forward several years, and Baylee and Maverick aren't as close.
Baylee broke my heart a lot in this book. She felt second best, and she struggled to make ends meet. Combined with a shitty ex and a surprise pregnancy, life wasn't doing her any favours.
Maverick is a successful NFL player who is back in town rehabbing from an injury, and Baylee is the only person he wants to be around.
These two had some serious chemistry, and I really enjoyed the second chance vibes these two gave off. Not only did we get lots of pining, but we also had a mystery plot alongside the romance. A mystery stalker who's out to hurt Baylee.
I really enjoyed this book. As soon as I started, I struggled to put it down as I was engrossed. I really enjoyed the suspense in this book and all the cute baby moments.
I'm really looking forward to Beau's book next.
August 28, 2025
“I’m your safe space, Maverick. I’m who you come to when you’re in trouble or hurting. It’s no surprise that we finally get together when you’re not sure if you’re going to return to the NFL. You don’t pick me when you’re the big tight end in high school. You don’t pick me when you’re the star football player at Lone Star State. You don’t pick me until you’re hiding out in your condo, wondering if your career is over.”
This sums up the entire book.
I was so excited for this book, but I was scared too. I feared that the MMC is a big fuck up and the FMC is spineless and sensitive and guess what happened.... exactly that.
The MMC dated people who don't look like FMC, He even dated someone who bullied her?? IMMEDIATELY after they kissed in HS back when they were kids?? And that girl was his first everything? He can't understand why FMC slowly withdrew from him over the years? Where is his emotional intelligence? The only reason he begins to like her is because it's her body that gets his limp dick working. I'm not exaggerating.
"I’ve tried everything—porn, cam girls, videos women have sent me over the years—and nothing gets my cock to perk up and take notice. The only thing I haven’t tried is a real woman, but things with Kira make me not wanna go there. I suppose if I can’t get off with my hand, then I’m shit out of luck."
I'm so confused why he would be an MMC at this point. FMC deserved better, the whole book actually made me sad. She was going through enough, genuinely. And then this guy comes and breaks her heart and doesn't grovel enough. He's enjoyed his whole life while all she did was suffer. He was just playing with her heart, fucking around and then he just left? He came back to her just because he felt a little guilty? My goodness what an asshole. Such characters can't be redeemed in my opinion. Such men do not deserve good women.
Also, the breastmilk kink was so?? Ew?? Because he was reading books about how to be a good step dad, and drinking straight from the source has direct negative affects on the baby. This felt contradictory.
The FMC is an absolute doormat, she's a little funny here and there since her coping mechanism is sarcasm, but that's it. She lets Caden do whatever he wants. There is no character development on his end.
I was so excited to read my favourite tropes - Second Chance, Single Mom - but yeah, no. I just felt like shit by the end of the book. I loved the first book of this series and joined the author's ARC team, that's how excited I was but I guess we can't have everything we want. 💔😭🥀
This sums up the entire book.
I was so excited for this book, but I was scared too. I feared that the MMC is a big fuck up and the FMC is spineless and sensitive and guess what happened.... exactly that.
The MMC dated people who don't look like FMC, He even dated someone who bullied her?? IMMEDIATELY after they kissed in HS back when they were kids?? And that girl was his first everything? He can't understand why FMC slowly withdrew from him over the years? Where is his emotional intelligence? The only reason he begins to like her is because it's her body that gets his limp dick working. I'm not exaggerating.
"I’ve tried everything—porn, cam girls, videos women have sent me over the years—and nothing gets my cock to perk up and take notice. The only thing I haven’t tried is a real woman, but things with Kira make me not wanna go there. I suppose if I can’t get off with my hand, then I’m shit out of luck."
I'm so confused why he would be an MMC at this point. FMC deserved better, the whole book actually made me sad. She was going through enough, genuinely. And then this guy comes and breaks her heart and doesn't grovel enough. He's enjoyed his whole life while all she did was suffer. He was just playing with her heart, fucking around and then he just left? He came back to her just because he felt a little guilty? My goodness what an asshole. Such characters can't be redeemed in my opinion. Such men do not deserve good women.
Also, the breastmilk kink was so?? Ew?? Because he was reading books about how to be a good step dad, and drinking straight from the source has direct negative affects on the baby. This felt contradictory.
The FMC is an absolute doormat, she's a little funny here and there since her coping mechanism is sarcasm, but that's it. She lets Caden do whatever he wants. There is no character development on his end.
I was so excited to read my favourite tropes - Second Chance, Single Mom - but yeah, no. I just felt like shit by the end of the book. I loved the first book of this series and joined the author's ARC team, that's how excited I was but I guess we can't have everything we want. 💔😭🥀
July 21, 2025
Rating: 3.5 Stars
The angst in this book about killed me! I normally don't read super angsty reads like this because my anxiety can't handle the chaos of yo-yoing emotional distress I inevitably get when I become emotionally attached to the characters. But after reading Stealing Hearts and meeting Baylee and the rest of the Walker brothers, I'm hooked.
That being said, I was definitely emotionally attached to Baylee. She was such an awesome friend, parent and person. She was strong, brave, resourceful and independent. But even the strongest need help every once in a while and her time comes when she finds herself newly single and pregnant by her no good ex.
With no where to go and feeling desperate she lets herself get talked into crashing (secretly) at Maverick's condo. Maverick, her former best friend, turned stranger and now a famous NFL player, who she's been estranged with for the last 6 years. Yup, that guy. Their reunion is bound to be awkward but she's counting on him being busy and hopefully not even notice her temporary stay. Except fate is always down for a good laugh because Maverick heads home early and their reunion is everything tension filled and as angsty as you'd expect it to be, times ♾️
Maverick and Baylee were a long thing coming and I loved their chemistry. You can feel how right these two are for each other but it broken my heart over and over again how Maverick's decision to run from his feelings effected Baylee. It took him six years to get his head out of the sand and see what was right in front of him the whole time. It was beyond frustrating! I hated how much she reverted to this insecure girl when faced with Maverick's lifestyle now. The second guessing and cloud of self bashing she goes through was not my cup of tea. His rejection of her all those years ago left a mark on her and I needed a little more effort from Mav to fix that. Sooner rather than later.
I was 100% team Baylee and was rooting of her HEA but I was also battling some serious agitation when it came to our Hero. Much like Baylee, one minute I wanted him far away and then he would do something so sweet and I'd be falling for him all over again! The whiplash I got when he would take one step forward and two steps back was insane!!! Luckily Maverick isn't that same cocky kid from before. When he finally admits his feelings for Baylee, I'm just going to say that Lex Martin knows how to write gripping characters because I couldn't walk away from this book! The ending was worth it, you just have to get through all the emotional land mines the author sets out for you first.
But that's kind of Lex Martin's specialty. Putting your heart through the ringer with captivating characters, OTT chemistry, emotional turmoil and all the angst. If you're like me and already investing in this series, you'll want to read this one to visit with the rest of the Walker brothers and Paige too! Can't wait to see which Walker brother is next! Beau or Jace? I loved them both.
“Some people feel like home no matter how many years you’ve been gone.”
The angst in this book about killed me! I normally don't read super angsty reads like this because my anxiety can't handle the chaos of yo-yoing emotional distress I inevitably get when I become emotionally attached to the characters. But after reading Stealing Hearts and meeting Baylee and the rest of the Walker brothers, I'm hooked.
That being said, I was definitely emotionally attached to Baylee. She was such an awesome friend, parent and person. She was strong, brave, resourceful and independent. But even the strongest need help every once in a while and her time comes when she finds herself newly single and pregnant by her no good ex.
With no where to go and feeling desperate she lets herself get talked into crashing (secretly) at Maverick's condo. Maverick, her former best friend, turned stranger and now a famous NFL player, who she's been estranged with for the last 6 years. Yup, that guy. Their reunion is bound to be awkward but she's counting on him being busy and hopefully not even notice her temporary stay. Except fate is always down for a good laugh because Maverick heads home early and their reunion is everything tension filled and as angsty as you'd expect it to be, times ♾️
Maverick and Baylee were a long thing coming and I loved their chemistry. You can feel how right these two are for each other but it broken my heart over and over again how Maverick's decision to run from his feelings effected Baylee. It took him six years to get his head out of the sand and see what was right in front of him the whole time. It was beyond frustrating! I hated how much she reverted to this insecure girl when faced with Maverick's lifestyle now. The second guessing and cloud of self bashing she goes through was not my cup of tea. His rejection of her all those years ago left a mark on her and I needed a little more effort from Mav to fix that. Sooner rather than later.
I was 100% team Baylee and was rooting of her HEA but I was also battling some serious agitation when it came to our Hero. Much like Baylee, one minute I wanted him far away and then he would do something so sweet and I'd be falling for him all over again! The whiplash I got when he would take one step forward and two steps back was insane!!! Luckily Maverick isn't that same cocky kid from before. When he finally admits his feelings for Baylee, I'm just going to say that Lex Martin knows how to write gripping characters because I couldn't walk away from this book! The ending was worth it, you just have to get through all the emotional land mines the author sets out for you first.
“Baby, there’s nobody but you. I’ve just been too dumb to realize it.”
But that's kind of Lex Martin's specialty. Putting your heart through the ringer with captivating characters, OTT chemistry, emotional turmoil and all the angst. If you're like me and already investing in this series, you'll want to read this one to visit with the rest of the Walker brothers and Paige too! Can't wait to see which Walker brother is next! Beau or Jace? I loved them both.
October 23, 2025
Childhood best friends, second chance romance. Single mom.
Baylee has been in love with her best friend Maverick since way before he was an NFL football player. But everything changed in high school when she decided to confess her love to him - and he rejected her. Their friendship was strained, but remained. Maverick went off to college, got a reputation for being a ladies man, focused on football and going pro. Baylee stayed in their hometown, worked for her mom’s salon until she took it over. Finally trying to get over Maverick, she dates someone new - and accidentally falls pregnant. On top of that, the new guy dumps her. So now she is going to be a single mom. But when months go by, and one fateful night, Maverick gets injured on the field. Everything in his life falls apart. Coming back home to hide out in his condo, the last thing he expects is for Baylee and her baby to be living there. But getting a taste of being in their lives and being a family is more than Mav ever expected. And with someone vandalizing and threatening Baylee and her salon, Mav wants to keep her closer than ever. But will they last? Or are they a passing situationship. And what do you do when the past is constantly interfering with the present?
Baylee has been in love with her best friend Maverick since way before he was an NFL football player. But everything changed in high school when she decided to confess her love to him - and he rejected her. Their friendship was strained, but remained. Maverick went off to college, got a reputation for being a ladies man, focused on football and going pro. Baylee stayed in their hometown, worked for her mom’s salon until she took it over. Finally trying to get over Maverick, she dates someone new - and accidentally falls pregnant. On top of that, the new guy dumps her. So now she is going to be a single mom. But when months go by, and one fateful night, Maverick gets injured on the field. Everything in his life falls apart. Coming back home to hide out in his condo, the last thing he expects is for Baylee and her baby to be living there. But getting a taste of being in their lives and being a family is more than Mav ever expected. And with someone vandalizing and threatening Baylee and her salon, Mav wants to keep her closer than ever. But will they last? Or are they a passing situationship. And what do you do when the past is constantly interfering with the present?
July 27, 2025
Cute story
“Love isn’t fair, Bay. It doesn’t keep a tally, and you don’t owe me."
This was a sweet childhood friends to lovers story. I love how he was instantly in love with her baby. I understood Bailey's thoughts, but boy did it annoy me when she wouldn't let the wealthy NFL player help her pay for things.
I liked how the baby daddy wasn't turned into the bad guy, but instead, we got to see a blended family. I loved seeing the other brothers and the couple from book 1. I am excited about the next book.
“Love isn’t fair, Bay. It doesn’t keep a tally, and you don’t owe me."
This was a sweet childhood friends to lovers story. I love how he was instantly in love with her baby. I understood Bailey's thoughts, but boy did it annoy me when she wouldn't let the wealthy NFL player help her pay for things.
I liked how the baby daddy wasn't turned into the bad guy, but instead, we got to see a blended family. I loved seeing the other brothers and the couple from book 1. I am excited about the next book.
July 31, 2025
I absolutely loved Mav and Baylee! The relationship that Mav and Bay have is really great. Becoming best friends when they were little to staying best friends as they grew up. Their story is funny, emotional, raw, super sexy. The chemistry between these two is off the charts. I was really nervous about Mav getting injured, you need to read this to find out. The bonus chapter DANG!!!!
I promise well be worth the wait.
I promise well be worth the wait.
July 27, 2025
Another 3 star read! It was enjoyable but again there were just certain elements that were cringey making it a bit harder for me to fully immerse myself into the story. I feel like some of the issues between the couple were drawn out and could have been communicated, especially for people that claim they are childhood best friends. I would definitely read the next book in the series as a cleanser between some of my more heavier reads.
July 24, 2025
I Loved Bailey & Mavericks story. Friends to Lovers is actually my least favorite trope but I have to admit I have been rooting for Mav to come to his senses for forever and Im so glad he finally did! I thought this was going to be a sweet and calm love story but I was stressing out quite a bit there for a sec! I was so hooked i flew through this book so fast! Lex did amazing once again 🙌💜
July 24, 2025
Lex Martin is one of my OG authors. I can still remember where I was the first time I read one of her books. Like it is a vivid memory in my mind because that is how much I was utterly consumed by her words from that very first page in that very first book. Over 10 years later, I am still a huge fan of this author. She is still one of my all-time favorite authors. And she continues to show me why I love love stories, but especially why I love love stories written by her.
What Lex Martin infuses into her romances is captivating, it’s vibrant, it’s unforgettable. It’s truly in a league of its own. I honestly don’t even have the right amount of words to capture what it’s like to read a book by this author, or to even scratch the surface of what I loved about this book by this author, but boy am I about to try in this book review. Because this book, these incredible characters, their love story, and this author Deserve it. They deserve everything.
Falling Stars by Lex Martin is a book that had some of my all-time favorite tropes in it. It was second chance, small town goodness, childhood friends to lovers, who are unexpectedly forced to live together in a way that leads to the best kind of fireworks. It also has a strong as hell single mom doing all that she can for her child, and her childhood best friend who is ready to show her that she doesn’t have to do it on her own anymore. Those two are pure connection and heart. I can’t say it enough. Your heart is in it with them from that very first page, and you are with them through every moment through past and present and future as they feel all that they can for one another.
From the moment I started this book, Baylee and Maverick stole my heart from page 1. I loved those two with my whole heart. This author throws you right into the thick of their friendship, she lets you understand and get every piece of their history and their connection, and she shows you how there is such depth and realness to what they feel and share together. This book gives them a chance at seeing what could be. It pushes them outside their comfort zones to take a chance on what they’ve always felt and shared, but we’re hesitant to risk. It forces them to face the authenticity and the depth of their feelings for one another, and what that means for the two of them as they move forward into the future together.
I think one of my favorite aspects of this book was how much history these two had together. I mean, they were childhood friends. Their families knew each other, they grew up to each other, they knew everything about each other. But there was also a world of feeling there between them. And when Baylee decides to push the boundaries, it doesn’t go well. But it’s not because Maverick doesn’t reciprocate what she feels, it’s because he’s scared of breaking them and their friendship. Flash forward six years later, and these two are brought back together under some very life-changing circumstances. Those circumstances turn their world upside down, but it also brings them back together to not only repair their friendship, but it also brings that flood of connection and fierce pull to one another right back to the surface. And try as they might fight it, it is there, it is tangible, and the two of them can’t help but feel it all.
And what they feel will change everything. What they feel will mean everything. What they experience and share together as they finally take that chance on one another is truly everything.
The way that Baylee and Maverick explore their feelings and connection this book, the way there is that tension and angst and buildup to them tipping those scales and giving into all that they feel, and the way that they wade their way through all of that emotion and feeling they have towards one another is one of the best aspects of this book. It is what gave me life reading their story. The vibrancy and the heart that they bring to every moment they’re together, the way that they struggle with their feelings and what it means and what it means for their future is authentic and raw. The way that they deal with their own flaws and their past traumas and everything is real and messy and complicated. These are two real characters, trying to figure out how they can navigate all of the feeling and love that they share for one another, with the circumstances they find themselves in. And I for one I loved and lived for being in the thick of that tension with them, because not only was it glorious, and not only did it build up to the most epic love story between these two characters, but it just added to every bit of what I experienced and felt with these characters.
Lex Martin completely consumed and enamored me with this couple and their journey to get to where they do in this book, and I was here for every single bit of it.
Baylee is a gem of a character. I love that role with my whole heart. Not only is she a strong single mom determined to give her child the best life and do what she can for those around her, but she has a heart of gold. I mean, she is just a genuinely good person. She is also a bad ass mom who will do anything for her child. The love that she has for her child shines on every page of this book and it will have you just melting. And loving all that this woman is ready and willing to do to make a life for herself and her child. She also loves her best friend and has been in love with him for years. And I really felt for her of the course of this book as she struggled to make sense of her feelings, as she worried if she could risk things once again, and as she tried to reconcile her very very real and strong feelings for Maverick, with being a mom, taking care of her child and her business, as well as her family and those around her. She has so much on her shoulders and she has such strength. I had so much respect for her character, so much love for her, and honestly, I just wanted to be friends with her. Lex Martin makes her so realistic and easy to love. It’s impossible not to want every good thing for her and root for her with all you can.
Now Maverick also stole my heart from the very first moment I met him. You meet him at a very tough time in his life when he is struggling with an injury that’s put him out of the NFL, he’s thrown back into the small town he grew up in, and he is brought face-to-face with his childhood best friend who he truly loves, and feels everything for, but is so scared to rock the boat with. I could not have loved his character more. I loved the way he continued to show up for Baylee. I mean the way that man was a protector, the way he loved her and her son, the way that he showed up for her, the way that he just wanted to fix and make everything right was the best. It’s not to say he didn’t have his hard moments and his own struggles, because he does and you get to process all that with him as both he and Baylee take this chance, but I just loved his character. I loved how strong and determined he was himself. I loved that this book was just as much about him figuring out his own future plan as it was for him fighting like hell for the future he wanted with Baylee and Leo. I also just loved that while he had those realistic moments of wavering and thinking about what he wanted and what he was willing to fight for, he also never lost sight of what really mattered and who he wanted to spend his life with. And that shined on every single page.
Getting to be in the thick of this love story with Baylee and Maverick truly made my heart happy. When I tell you, it’s books like this that make me love reading romance, I mean that with my whole heart. It’s books like this that made me fall in love with this genre. Books that just show a real authenticity, a depth and level of connection, and that just combine the perfect amount of heart, and feels and swoon and spice to create an unforgettable love story. And honestly, that’s just scratching the service about what I loved with Baylee and Maverick’s story. Those two are just meant to be. You feel in your bones through every second they’re together, and I loved it. I loved that through every moment of struggle they faced, every hard conversation they had to have, and every moment where they try to figure out what came next, that love was there, it was real and deep, and it was just so completely them.
Now I also have to say that I loved the small town of this book and I truly cannot wait to get more from all of these characters. I am wholeheartedly invested in all of these brothers, all of these towns people, and just the magic that Lex Martin creates with all of them. She definitely brings the vibrant and life through her words to every second with all of these characters, and it just makes you want more. It makes you need every chance you can get with these characters and this town and all of their antics and moments together. And I just love it. It’s incredible, it’s fun to read and experience, and it just makes this even more of a memorable reading experience to have.
I truly could have spent the rest of time with these characters reading and experiencing their love story. Throw in the fact that there was a little bit of a mystery going on that put Baylee and Leo in danger, and that definitely pushed Maverick into protector mode, had me in every bit of this book. I literally sat here and read this book in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t get enough with these characters, I couldn’t get enough of their connection, I couldn’t get enough of the love that they were building together and the beauty of what they shared, and I just couldn’t get enough of them. That is how much this author just puts you in the heart of this book that you feel that and live that and breathe that through every word. And that is just everything.
Falling Stars is a story of two souls finally finding their way back to one another in the way they were always meant to be together. It’s a story of a second chance at what could be. It’s about two very right people finally finding the right time to be together. It’s a story of authenticity and raw emotion and hard conversations, but more than that it’s a story of love. Love that grew from childhood, to young adulthood, to something so much more. It’s a love and respect that blooms over the course of this book that will just consume you, move you, and that will have you believing in everything that these two share. The beauty and depth of their love will truly touch every part of your heart, and you will love every single second you get with them.
I promise you that.
This book proved to me over and over again why Lex Martin continues to be one of my all-time favorite authors. I felt the same magic in this book that I felt in that very first book I read of hers, and that I felt in every other book I’ve had the pleasure of reading from her. This book was romantic, it was emotional and swoony, it had the fire and spice, and it had that small town magic that I loved every second of. This book truly showed me a love story I know I won’t forget. Baylee, Maverick, and little Leo, seared themselves my heart, and I never want them to let go because I just love those three and what they create and share in this book.
Lex Martin has once again completely outdone herself with Falling Stars and I have no doubt you will love this book. It will make you smile, it will definitely make you spoon and blush, but more than that it will just have you beyond consumed and in love with this couple and everything they share together. Their happily ever after is worth everything, and you will love getting to be in the thick of it with them in the heart of the story as the stars finally align for them to find their way back to one another.
This book, this couple, and their love story, are just perfection and you will truly LOVE every moment you get with them as they feel that love, as they fight for it, and as they finally get the chance to bask in it.
What Lex Martin infuses into her romances is captivating, it’s vibrant, it’s unforgettable. It’s truly in a league of its own. I honestly don’t even have the right amount of words to capture what it’s like to read a book by this author, or to even scratch the surface of what I loved about this book by this author, but boy am I about to try in this book review. Because this book, these incredible characters, their love story, and this author Deserve it. They deserve everything.
Falling Stars by Lex Martin is a book that had some of my all-time favorite tropes in it. It was second chance, small town goodness, childhood friends to lovers, who are unexpectedly forced to live together in a way that leads to the best kind of fireworks. It also has a strong as hell single mom doing all that she can for her child, and her childhood best friend who is ready to show her that she doesn’t have to do it on her own anymore. Those two are pure connection and heart. I can’t say it enough. Your heart is in it with them from that very first page, and you are with them through every moment through past and present and future as they feel all that they can for one another.
From the moment I started this book, Baylee and Maverick stole my heart from page 1. I loved those two with my whole heart. This author throws you right into the thick of their friendship, she lets you understand and get every piece of their history and their connection, and she shows you how there is such depth and realness to what they feel and share together. This book gives them a chance at seeing what could be. It pushes them outside their comfort zones to take a chance on what they’ve always felt and shared, but we’re hesitant to risk. It forces them to face the authenticity and the depth of their feelings for one another, and what that means for the two of them as they move forward into the future together.
I think one of my favorite aspects of this book was how much history these two had together. I mean, they were childhood friends. Their families knew each other, they grew up to each other, they knew everything about each other. But there was also a world of feeling there between them. And when Baylee decides to push the boundaries, it doesn’t go well. But it’s not because Maverick doesn’t reciprocate what she feels, it’s because he’s scared of breaking them and their friendship. Flash forward six years later, and these two are brought back together under some very life-changing circumstances. Those circumstances turn their world upside down, but it also brings them back together to not only repair their friendship, but it also brings that flood of connection and fierce pull to one another right back to the surface. And try as they might fight it, it is there, it is tangible, and the two of them can’t help but feel it all.
And what they feel will change everything. What they feel will mean everything. What they experience and share together as they finally take that chance on one another is truly everything.
The way that Baylee and Maverick explore their feelings and connection this book, the way there is that tension and angst and buildup to them tipping those scales and giving into all that they feel, and the way that they wade their way through all of that emotion and feeling they have towards one another is one of the best aspects of this book. It is what gave me life reading their story. The vibrancy and the heart that they bring to every moment they’re together, the way that they struggle with their feelings and what it means and what it means for their future is authentic and raw. The way that they deal with their own flaws and their past traumas and everything is real and messy and complicated. These are two real characters, trying to figure out how they can navigate all of the feeling and love that they share for one another, with the circumstances they find themselves in. And I for one I loved and lived for being in the thick of that tension with them, because not only was it glorious, and not only did it build up to the most epic love story between these two characters, but it just added to every bit of what I experienced and felt with these characters.
Lex Martin completely consumed and enamored me with this couple and their journey to get to where they do in this book, and I was here for every single bit of it.
Baylee is a gem of a character. I love that role with my whole heart. Not only is she a strong single mom determined to give her child the best life and do what she can for those around her, but she has a heart of gold. I mean, she is just a genuinely good person. She is also a bad ass mom who will do anything for her child. The love that she has for her child shines on every page of this book and it will have you just melting. And loving all that this woman is ready and willing to do to make a life for herself and her child. She also loves her best friend and has been in love with him for years. And I really felt for her of the course of this book as she struggled to make sense of her feelings, as she worried if she could risk things once again, and as she tried to reconcile her very very real and strong feelings for Maverick, with being a mom, taking care of her child and her business, as well as her family and those around her. She has so much on her shoulders and she has such strength. I had so much respect for her character, so much love for her, and honestly, I just wanted to be friends with her. Lex Martin makes her so realistic and easy to love. It’s impossible not to want every good thing for her and root for her with all you can.
Now Maverick also stole my heart from the very first moment I met him. You meet him at a very tough time in his life when he is struggling with an injury that’s put him out of the NFL, he’s thrown back into the small town he grew up in, and he is brought face-to-face with his childhood best friend who he truly loves, and feels everything for, but is so scared to rock the boat with. I could not have loved his character more. I loved the way he continued to show up for Baylee. I mean the way that man was a protector, the way he loved her and her son, the way that he showed up for her, the way that he just wanted to fix and make everything right was the best. It’s not to say he didn’t have his hard moments and his own struggles, because he does and you get to process all that with him as both he and Baylee take this chance, but I just loved his character. I loved how strong and determined he was himself. I loved that this book was just as much about him figuring out his own future plan as it was for him fighting like hell for the future he wanted with Baylee and Leo. I also just loved that while he had those realistic moments of wavering and thinking about what he wanted and what he was willing to fight for, he also never lost sight of what really mattered and who he wanted to spend his life with. And that shined on every single page.
Getting to be in the thick of this love story with Baylee and Maverick truly made my heart happy. When I tell you, it’s books like this that make me love reading romance, I mean that with my whole heart. It’s books like this that made me fall in love with this genre. Books that just show a real authenticity, a depth and level of connection, and that just combine the perfect amount of heart, and feels and swoon and spice to create an unforgettable love story. And honestly, that’s just scratching the service about what I loved with Baylee and Maverick’s story. Those two are just meant to be. You feel in your bones through every second they’re together, and I loved it. I loved that through every moment of struggle they faced, every hard conversation they had to have, and every moment where they try to figure out what came next, that love was there, it was real and deep, and it was just so completely them.
Now I also have to say that I loved the small town of this book and I truly cannot wait to get more from all of these characters. I am wholeheartedly invested in all of these brothers, all of these towns people, and just the magic that Lex Martin creates with all of them. She definitely brings the vibrant and life through her words to every second with all of these characters, and it just makes you want more. It makes you need every chance you can get with these characters and this town and all of their antics and moments together. And I just love it. It’s incredible, it’s fun to read and experience, and it just makes this even more of a memorable reading experience to have.
I truly could have spent the rest of time with these characters reading and experiencing their love story. Throw in the fact that there was a little bit of a mystery going on that put Baylee and Leo in danger, and that definitely pushed Maverick into protector mode, had me in every bit of this book. I literally sat here and read this book in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t get enough with these characters, I couldn’t get enough of their connection, I couldn’t get enough of the love that they were building together and the beauty of what they shared, and I just couldn’t get enough of them. That is how much this author just puts you in the heart of this book that you feel that and live that and breathe that through every word. And that is just everything.
Falling Stars is a story of two souls finally finding their way back to one another in the way they were always meant to be together. It’s a story of a second chance at what could be. It’s about two very right people finally finding the right time to be together. It’s a story of authenticity and raw emotion and hard conversations, but more than that it’s a story of love. Love that grew from childhood, to young adulthood, to something so much more. It’s a love and respect that blooms over the course of this book that will just consume you, move you, and that will have you believing in everything that these two share. The beauty and depth of their love will truly touch every part of your heart, and you will love every single second you get with them.
I promise you that.
This book proved to me over and over again why Lex Martin continues to be one of my all-time favorite authors. I felt the same magic in this book that I felt in that very first book I read of hers, and that I felt in every other book I’ve had the pleasure of reading from her. This book was romantic, it was emotional and swoony, it had the fire and spice, and it had that small town magic that I loved every second of. This book truly showed me a love story I know I won’t forget. Baylee, Maverick, and little Leo, seared themselves my heart, and I never want them to let go because I just love those three and what they create and share in this book.
Lex Martin has once again completely outdone herself with Falling Stars and I have no doubt you will love this book. It will make you smile, it will definitely make you spoon and blush, but more than that it will just have you beyond consumed and in love with this couple and everything they share together. Their happily ever after is worth everything, and you will love getting to be in the thick of it with them in the heart of the story as the stars finally align for them to find their way back to one another.
This book, this couple, and their love story, are just perfection and you will truly LOVE every moment you get with them as they feel that love, as they fight for it, and as they finally get the chance to bask in it.
July 24, 2025
Oh my, oh my, this series just gets better and better!!
Falling Stars centers around Baylee and Maverick. They were childhood friends. They were each other’s people. That is until a social media challenge goes kinda wrong. Things just weren't quite the same anymore. Now she's a single, very independent *stubborn* single mom, and he's a rehabbing pro football player who may never be able to play again.
I highly recommend getting lost in this story packed with angst, witty banter, steamy sexy times, suspense, and a perfect HEA!
Falling Stars centers around Baylee and Maverick. They were childhood friends. They were each other’s people. That is until a social media challenge goes kinda wrong. Things just weren't quite the same anymore. Now she's a single, very independent *stubborn* single mom, and he's a rehabbing pro football player who may never be able to play again.
I highly recommend getting lost in this story packed with angst, witty banter, steamy sexy times, suspense, and a perfect HEA!
July 22, 2025
JUST BEAUTIFUL
I loved Maverick so dang much!
Baylee and Maverick were best friends until the ‘kiss your best friend’ challenge changed everything.
Years have passed and Maverick is back after being injured in the NFL and Bailey needs somewhere to stay, so they are sharing his condo.
I went through an emotional rollercoaster with these two, I cried a time or two. Sweetheart, beautiful, spicy, funny and full of angst.
I definitely recommend 👌
I loved Maverick so dang much!
Baylee and Maverick were best friends until the ‘kiss your best friend’ challenge changed everything.
Years have passed and Maverick is back after being injured in the NFL and Bailey needs somewhere to stay, so they are sharing his condo.
I went through an emotional rollercoaster with these two, I cried a time or two. Sweetheart, beautiful, spicy, funny and full of angst.
I definitely recommend 👌
December 21, 2025
🎧AUDIO REVIEW🎧
🎧GAH! It was really good experiencing this story in my ears! 🎤Ruby Corazon and Michael Gallagher🎤 made an excellent team! They are both pretty new to my ears, but I liked them instantly! I love it when that happens and it makes me want to run out and download everything they have ever recorded! Their performance was so easy on my ears that I honestly forgot I was twitchy about the “harasser” mystery when I’d read it back in July of this year! Now that is a sign of some seriously great performing! 👏👏WELL DONE!👏👏 Soooooooooooooooo, I'm bumping my rating from 4 stars to 5 stars because of it! #winning
📚STORY REVIEW📚
Lex Martin has us back in the town of Wild Heart and all its small-town shenanigan quirkiness with Baylee Reyes and Maverick Walker getting a second chance to get things right and reach the ❤️sweet spot❤️!
There’s only one circumstance in this journey that gave me pause and made me more than a little twitchy because it just felt … lazy *shrug* The mystery behind the “harasser” was just … *blink* LOL I mean, really? That’s what we’re going with? This is the point where I’d normally give more detail because when something makes my eye twitch I tend to rant, but I’m not, because it was just dumb. I said what I said. Let’s move on.
Baylee & Maverick are characters that you just will not be able to not love. Everything about “them” was real and genuine and made for a truly heartwarming story. Their development from the “before” to the “now” was really well done. It unfolded nicely without overly dramatizing things (except that one thing lol). I can’t wait to find out about this story on audio because I know that it will be heart stopping!
I like the town of Wild Heart that Lex has created, and I like the ties to some of her previous stories because it makes me want to buckle down and really binge her back stories!
🎧GAH! It was really good experiencing this story in my ears! 🎤Ruby Corazon and Michael Gallagher🎤 made an excellent team! They are both pretty new to my ears, but I liked them instantly! I love it when that happens and it makes me want to run out and download everything they have ever recorded! Their performance was so easy on my ears that I honestly forgot I was twitchy about the “harasser” mystery when I’d read it back in July of this year! Now that is a sign of some seriously great performing! 👏👏WELL DONE!👏👏 Soooooooooooooooo, I'm bumping my rating from 4 stars to 5 stars because of it! #winning
📚STORY REVIEW📚
Lex Martin has us back in the town of Wild Heart and all its small-town shenanigan quirkiness with Baylee Reyes and Maverick Walker getting a second chance to get things right and reach the ❤️sweet spot❤️!
There’s only one circumstance in this journey that gave me pause and made me more than a little twitchy because it just felt … lazy *shrug* The mystery behind the “harasser” was just … *blink* LOL I mean, really? That’s what we’re going with? This is the point where I’d normally give more detail because when something makes my eye twitch I tend to rant, but I’m not, because it was just dumb. I said what I said. Let’s move on.
Baylee & Maverick are characters that you just will not be able to not love. Everything about “them” was real and genuine and made for a truly heartwarming story. Their development from the “before” to the “now” was really well done. It unfolded nicely without overly dramatizing things (except that one thing lol). I can’t wait to find out about this story on audio because I know that it will be heart stopping!
I like the town of Wild Heart that Lex has created, and I like the ties to some of her previous stories because it makes me want to buckle down and really binge her back stories!
July 28, 2025
manchild maverick
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