What do you think?
Rate this book
The Weight of Falling
Perfect for fans of Devney Perry and Catherine Cowles, The Weight of Falling is an emotional small-town romance filled with slow-burn tension, mystery, and suspense.
Kenzie Ellis, the shy greeting card illustrator with a smile for everyone, has always been known as the town’s sweetheart. She’s the last person anyone expects to kiss a stranger in a darkened storeroom, break into locked buildings, or end up in the middle of bar fights she definitely didn’t start.
The protective town knows exactly who to blame—Joel Adams, the handsome, enigmatic photographer who keeps to himself and hides a past he refuses to talk about.
Everyone says Joel is trouble. But Kenzie sees past his aloof exterior to the lonely man behind the camera lens.
Joel has spent years keeping people safe by pushing them away. But when Kenzie barrels into his life full of sunny, chaotic energy, he discovers that keeping his distance only makes the pull between them harder to ignore.
Their chemistry is undeniable. But so is the danger. Because the truth about Joel’s past isn’t just dark; it’s deadly.
And when his secrets come back to haunt the town and place Kenzie in danger, neither of them will escape unscathed.
Kenzie Ellis, the shy greeting card illustrator with a smile for everyone, has always been known as the town’s sweetheart. She’s the last person anyone expects to kiss a stranger in a darkened storeroom, break into locked buildings, or end up in the middle of bar fights she definitely didn’t start.
The protective town knows exactly who to blame—Joel Adams, the handsome, enigmatic photographer who keeps to himself and hides a past he refuses to talk about.
Everyone says Joel is trouble. But Kenzie sees past his aloof exterior to the lonely man behind the camera lens.
Joel has spent years keeping people safe by pushing them away. But when Kenzie barrels into his life full of sunny, chaotic energy, he discovers that keeping his distance only makes the pull between them harder to ignore.
Their chemistry is undeniable. But so is the danger. Because the truth about Joel’s past isn’t just dark; it’s deadly.
And when his secrets come back to haunt the town and place Kenzie in danger, neither of them will escape unscathed.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 23, 2025
About the author
Lara Martin
6 books74 followersLara Martin writes books about imperfect people living messy lives, falling in love, and fighting for their happily-ever-after. She’s lived in South Africa and Australia, and now calls a cozy village in England her home. She's a mom to two kids, an animal lover, and her champion of a husband is always the first reader of her novels.
She likes her book heroes with humor, muscles, stubble, and a wild side. When she’s not writing, she can be found haunting local coffee shops in search of the next story to make your heart race.
https://www.instagram.com/laramartina...
She likes her book heroes with humor, muscles, stubble, and a wild side. When she’s not writing, she can be found haunting local coffee shops in search of the next story to make your heart race.
https://www.instagram.com/laramartina...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 3, 2026
4.5⭐
Genre ~ contemporary fiction
Setting ~ Brown Oaks (not sure where that is)
Publication date ~ October 23, 2025
Est Page Count ~ 304 (52 chapters +e)
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ small town, secrets, grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract, fake relationship, slow burn, no steamage, found family
Content warning from the author:
This book includes mature themes, including violence and kidnapping.
Kenzie & Joel have an unexpected smooch in a closet at their friend's wedding. An obvious mistake that never should have happened, but before they know it they’re in a fake relationship.
Kenzie is a people pleaser, the epitome of sunshine, an all around lovely person and the town sweetheart, and the town sure does stand by her. Her parents were awesome, too.
Joel is a mystery man and a grump. He has an obvious secret, and a face scar, that’s so intriguing that you just can’t wait to find out what his past holds. And what a past it was. You just know something bad is coming, and whew boy I was on the edge of my seat waiting.
Full of small town shenanigans, especially when the rumors are flying.
The friendship group is really top notch. I think they are my most favorite group I’ve read with how they’re always there for each other no matter what. Their banter and the fun time they have together is just great.
“If he hurts you again, I will gut him like a trout and spill his insides on the ground.”
Overall, I loved it! The romance and mystery elements are well balanced, which makes it a steady paced, suspensefully gripping read. Gah with that epilogue! My favorite of Lara's thus far.
Series notes:
Not technically a series, but we have met all the characters that are heavily involved in Lara’s previous books, so I’d say read them, but I suppose you don’t have to, but you really should cuz they’re great.
Genre ~ contemporary fiction
Setting ~ Brown Oaks (not sure where that is)
Publication date ~ October 23, 2025
Est Page Count ~ 304 (52 chapters +e)
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ small town, secrets, grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract, fake relationship, slow burn, no steamage, found family
Content warning from the author:
This book includes mature themes, including violence and kidnapping.
Kenzie & Joel have an unexpected smooch in a closet at their friend's wedding. An obvious mistake that never should have happened, but before they know it they’re in a fake relationship.
Kenzie is a people pleaser, the epitome of sunshine, an all around lovely person and the town sweetheart, and the town sure does stand by her. Her parents were awesome, too.
Joel is a mystery man and a grump. He has an obvious secret, and a face scar, that’s so intriguing that you just can’t wait to find out what his past holds. And what a past it was. You just know something bad is coming, and whew boy I was on the edge of my seat waiting.
Full of small town shenanigans, especially when the rumors are flying.
The friendship group is really top notch. I think they are my most favorite group I’ve read with how they’re always there for each other no matter what. Their banter and the fun time they have together is just great.
“If he hurts you again, I will gut him like a trout and spill his insides on the ground.”
Overall, I loved it! The romance and mystery elements are well balanced, which makes it a steady paced, suspensefully gripping read. Gah with that epilogue! My favorite of Lara's thus far.
Series notes:
Not technically a series, but we have met all the characters that are heavily involved in Lara’s previous books, so I’d say read them, but I suppose you don’t have to, but you really should cuz they’re great.
November 6, 2025
The Weight of Falling was a grumpy sunshine, fake dating romance that was heartwarming and delightful! With romantic suspense sprinkled throughout the story and small town charm, this book was so easy to get lost in.
The way this story started was so entertaining! While at a wedding, Kenzie and Joel found themselves together in a closet…and kissing. Kenzie thought he was someone else. Joel was trying to escape a certain person. And the chemistry was electric! When they end up fake dating, to help each other out, I was so giddy! The banter and teasing was so much fun, and their moments together made me laugh! If only they would cross that line from fake, to something more.
Joel was a wounded soul who had a heart of gold. It was so easy to adore him. But he definitely came across as the town grump who had his walls infinitely high. And then there was Kate who was a ray of sunshine. I loved her personality and charming ways, and Joel couldn’t help but be pulled into her orbit. As they kept running into each other everywhere and fake dated, and gossip swirled around them, I adored their heartwarming moments. They fit together so perfectly! I want to say more but my lips are zipped. This story unfolded in ways I didn’t see coming!
With group chats that will have you laughing out loud, secrets simmering, tension that will warm your heart and lead to closed door moments, and an epilogue that will leave you smiling, this book was so much fun! < With charm, humor, and romance, The Weight of Falling was a beautiful story. Now I can’t wait to see what Lara Martin writes next!
PS Technically this is a standalone, but if you want to read the characters we meet in this story and their HEA’s, it’s Phishing for Love and then Broken Heart Playlist ♥.
PPS This quote is so me and had me cackling….
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Blog * Instagram * Facebook * Bloglovin * Feedly
The memory of our kiss hangs between us. I’ve never been kissed like that before. I’m afraid the wonder of it is written all over my face.
The way this story started was so entertaining! While at a wedding, Kenzie and Joel found themselves together in a closet…and kissing. Kenzie thought he was someone else. Joel was trying to escape a certain person. And the chemistry was electric! When they end up fake dating, to help each other out, I was so giddy! The banter and teasing was so much fun, and their moments together made me laugh! If only they would cross that line from fake, to something more.
I tell myself to stop overthinking it. It’s one public date. A fake date at that. He’s helping me. I’m helping him. That’s all.
Joel was a wounded soul who had a heart of gold. It was so easy to adore him. But he definitely came across as the town grump who had his walls infinitely high. And then there was Kate who was a ray of sunshine. I loved her personality and charming ways, and Joel couldn’t help but be pulled into her orbit. As they kept running into each other everywhere and fake dated, and gossip swirled around them, I adored their heartwarming moments. They fit together so perfectly! I want to say more but my lips are zipped. This story unfolded in ways I didn’t see coming!
“You looked... intense.”
“I do everything intensely,” he says in a low voice.
For a second, I forget how to breathe as my imagination runs riot.
With group chats that will have you laughing out loud, secrets simmering, tension that will warm your heart and lead to closed door moments, and an epilogue that will leave you smiling, this book was so much fun! < With charm, humor, and romance, The Weight of Falling was a beautiful story. Now I can’t wait to see what Lara Martin writes next!
His hand captures mine, and his thumb lightly traces the inside of my wrist. My skin is on fire.
“Have I told you how beautiful you look today?” he murmurs.
PS Technically this is a standalone, but if you want to read the characters we meet in this story and their HEA’s, it’s Phishing for Love and then Broken Heart Playlist ♥.
“You look at me like I’m worth saving,” he whispers.
“That’s because you are.”
PPS This quote is so me and had me cackling….
Kate, of course, has the store layout memorized and organizes her list by aisle.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Blog * Instagram * Facebook * Bloglovin * Feedly
November 1, 2025
What I Enjoyed:
Fake dating trope
Banter
Close door romance
Small town setting
The Weight of Falling had everything I love in a romcom! I was happy when I found out this story was based on two characters that appeared in author Lara Martin’s previous novels.
There are many characters in this book so taking notes will help you keep track. I have now read all five books by Lara and I think this one might be her best!!!
Fake dating trope
Banter
Close door romance
Small town setting
The Weight of Falling had everything I love in a romcom! I was happy when I found out this story was based on two characters that appeared in author Lara Martin’s previous novels.
There are many characters in this book so taking notes will help you keep track. I have now read all five books by Lara and I think this one might be her best!!!
October 23, 2025
4 Stars
✨ The vibes:
- Small town
- Suspenseful Romance
- Mysterious MMC
- Lots of text messages
- Fake relationship
- Closed door
✨ My thoughts:
When the small town sweetheart starts connecting with the mysterious man who refuses to discuss his past, fate throws them together at every turn. Kenzie and Joel may be complete opposites but their chemistry is off the charts. They may be unable to resist the pull towards each other, but when Joel’s mysterious past comes knocking on his door, will love be enough?
✨ This is marketed as a suspenseful romance and it 100% is that, but it is packaged in the sweetest contemporary romance setting. So much so that when the suspense hits, you will have forgotten it was even coming. The turn of events took me by surprise in a really fun way.
✨ I loved the friend group here. I enjoyed the backstory for Kenzie and her journey of growth. I liked the dynamics of Kenzie and Joel and their intensity together worked for me. YALL. Why did I just have an Edward/Bella vibe for so much of this book? 😂 The intensity of Joel definitely gave that vibe of Edward to me where there’s a mysterious element at play. We the readers don’t know why he is being so evasive. And then we have Kenzie who is so intrigued and drawn to Joel and desperately wants him to let her in. She doesn’t know much about him, but she knows that they have this connection, that she wants him, and that he is just fighting it so hard.
✨ The entire time I thought the secrets that were being hidden were being exaggerated for a future shock, but no. The plot we were delivered fully matched the intensity of the secrets that were being held throughout the book. I had some questions about the suspense elements and how likely they would be in this type of scenario, BUT I did have such a great time reading this one.
Note- closed door
Release date: October 23, 2025.
Thank you so much to Lara Martin for the gifted copy.
✨ The vibes:
- Small town
- Suspenseful Romance
- Mysterious MMC
- Lots of text messages
- Fake relationship
- Closed door
✨ My thoughts:
When the small town sweetheart starts connecting with the mysterious man who refuses to discuss his past, fate throws them together at every turn. Kenzie and Joel may be complete opposites but their chemistry is off the charts. They may be unable to resist the pull towards each other, but when Joel’s mysterious past comes knocking on his door, will love be enough?
✨ This is marketed as a suspenseful romance and it 100% is that, but it is packaged in the sweetest contemporary romance setting. So much so that when the suspense hits, you will have forgotten it was even coming. The turn of events took me by surprise in a really fun way.
✨ I loved the friend group here. I enjoyed the backstory for Kenzie and her journey of growth. I liked the dynamics of Kenzie and Joel and their intensity together worked for me. YALL. Why did I just have an Edward/Bella vibe for so much of this book? 😂 The intensity of Joel definitely gave that vibe of Edward to me where there’s a mysterious element at play. We the readers don’t know why he is being so evasive. And then we have Kenzie who is so intrigued and drawn to Joel and desperately wants him to let her in. She doesn’t know much about him, but she knows that they have this connection, that she wants him, and that he is just fighting it so hard.
✨ The entire time I thought the secrets that were being hidden were being exaggerated for a future shock, but no. The plot we were delivered fully matched the intensity of the secrets that were being held throughout the book. I had some questions about the suspense elements and how likely they would be in this type of scenario, BUT I did have such a great time reading this one.
Note- closed door
Release date: October 23, 2025.
Thank you so much to Lara Martin for the gifted copy.
October 27, 2025
You guys! This book is available now and you need to read it! Lara is one of the sweetest friends I've met
on booksta, and she's one of my favorite authors.
Kenzie is the town sweetheart that ends up kissing a stranger in a dark closet and somehow winds up in the middle of a bar fight! The whole town knows who to blame! Joel Adams! Everyone knows that Joel is trouble because he keeps to himself and never talks about his past. Kenzie sees past all the things Joel tries to hide and finds the good in him. She is the sunshine to his grumpy! Joel keeps trying to push Kenzie away to keep her safe, and turns out, there really are threats to worry about!
The Weight Of Falling has all the things: small town vibes, romance, mystery, and suspense! Congrats on your new book, Lara Martin. Absolutely love it!
on booksta, and she's one of my favorite authors.
Kenzie is the town sweetheart that ends up kissing a stranger in a dark closet and somehow winds up in the middle of a bar fight! The whole town knows who to blame! Joel Adams! Everyone knows that Joel is trouble because he keeps to himself and never talks about his past. Kenzie sees past all the things Joel tries to hide and finds the good in him. She is the sunshine to his grumpy! Joel keeps trying to push Kenzie away to keep her safe, and turns out, there really are threats to worry about!
The Weight Of Falling has all the things: small town vibes, romance, mystery, and suspense! Congrats on your new book, Lara Martin. Absolutely love it!
October 28, 2025
I’m always so excited when Lara publishes a new book, and this fabulous story was definitely worth the wait.
Once again, she’s penned a book with dynamic characters, a beautiful and intense romance, and a gripping storyline.
I loved the relationship between Joel and Kenzie! The tension and pining was so strong, and their first kiss was unforgettable. One of the things I love about Lara’s books is that her romances sizzle while still keeping the door closed, and this story has plenty of sizzle.
It’s full of swoony and humorous moments, but this is also a story with an edge and contains some heavy elements. Those elements give the story more depth and tension, and made for an unputdownable read. Highly recommended!
You can expect—
💙 Romantic suspense
🖤 Fake dating
💙 Grumpy/Sunshine
🖤 Found Family
💙 Small Town
🖤 Secrets
Once again, she’s penned a book with dynamic characters, a beautiful and intense romance, and a gripping storyline.
I loved the relationship between Joel and Kenzie! The tension and pining was so strong, and their first kiss was unforgettable. One of the things I love about Lara’s books is that her romances sizzle while still keeping the door closed, and this story has plenty of sizzle.
It’s full of swoony and humorous moments, but this is also a story with an edge and contains some heavy elements. Those elements give the story more depth and tension, and made for an unputdownable read. Highly recommended!
You can expect—
💙 Romantic suspense
🖤 Fake dating
💙 Grumpy/Sunshine
🖤 Found Family
💙 Small Town
🖤 Secrets
October 24, 2025
Thank you Lara for the advanced copy! Finished this in one day and totally loved it - the meet cute accidental kiss, the chemistry, the chat groups, the friend circle, the suspense drama - wholesome!
Full review to come soon!
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
A sweet romance that kind of gave me butterflies and made me silly giggle at all the fun and banter among not just the MCs but the whole friend gang! If you are looking for a closed door romance with an amazing set of friend group, a meddling smalltown, and kisses and chemistry that will make you swoon, I highly recommend this book along with the first two set in the same smalltown of Brown Oaks. It can be read as a standalone perfectly, but knowing all the other friends from their individual books makes it extra special and rounds it upto a 5⭐️ experience.
Kenzie is the town sweetheart and she is sometimes too kind for her own good. After a recent breakup, she ends up mistakenly kiss Joel in a dark storeroom at her friend's wedding. Joel is the broody, elusive, extremely hot photographer who is fairly new to to town and keeps his distance from everyone. The said accidental kiss happens within the first two chapters and it is so swoon and hot, got me totally hooked! Wow, well done Lara! Certain situations make Joel and Kenzie fake date each other thanks to meddling friends, and soon the feelings turn too real. Having read the first two books, knowing all the supporting characters I had such a fun time, the chats from their chat group, the monthly get togethers, sweet old grandma, everything was so good. Kenzie and Joel's banter and flirty moments and kisses were so good, they were just meant to be. I loved how Kenzie helped Joel feel at ease and eventually share his painful past.
Talking about his past, Joel's past comes knocking into their sweet time and an interesting suspense makes for a dramatic climax. Personally, I found both the Mrs were written so well, especially Joel's past and the suspense was appropriately placed without overpowering the romance. By the end of this, I felt a bit emotional like I knew all these friends and I just hope there's somehow something more that takes me back to Brown Oaks and these people!
Other books in the series : Phishing For Love and The Broken Heart Playlist
Thankyou Lara for sharing an advanced copy of this book, it was such a pleasure.
Full review to come soon!
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
A sweet romance that kind of gave me butterflies and made me silly giggle at all the fun and banter among not just the MCs but the whole friend gang! If you are looking for a closed door romance with an amazing set of friend group, a meddling smalltown, and kisses and chemistry that will make you swoon, I highly recommend this book along with the first two set in the same smalltown of Brown Oaks. It can be read as a standalone perfectly, but knowing all the other friends from their individual books makes it extra special and rounds it upto a 5⭐️ experience.
Kenzie is the town sweetheart and she is sometimes too kind for her own good. After a recent breakup, she ends up mistakenly kiss Joel in a dark storeroom at her friend's wedding. Joel is the broody, elusive, extremely hot photographer who is fairly new to to town and keeps his distance from everyone. The said accidental kiss happens within the first two chapters and it is so swoon and hot, got me totally hooked! Wow, well done Lara! Certain situations make Joel and Kenzie fake date each other thanks to meddling friends, and soon the feelings turn too real. Having read the first two books, knowing all the supporting characters I had such a fun time, the chats from their chat group, the monthly get togethers, sweet old grandma, everything was so good. Kenzie and Joel's banter and flirty moments and kisses were so good, they were just meant to be. I loved how Kenzie helped Joel feel at ease and eventually share his painful past.
Talking about his past, Joel's past comes knocking into their sweet time and an interesting suspense makes for a dramatic climax. Personally, I found both the Mrs were written so well, especially Joel's past and the suspense was appropriately placed without overpowering the romance. By the end of this, I felt a bit emotional like I knew all these friends and I just hope there's somehow something more that takes me back to Brown Oaks and these people!
Other books in the series : Phishing For Love and The Broken Heart Playlist
Thankyou Lara for sharing an advanced copy of this book, it was such a pleasure.
October 20, 2025
Joel has shied away from getting close to anyone. When Kenzie approaches him in a dark storeroom, he knows he's a goner. As the two get closer, Joel knows his secrets can't stay hidden forever.
Ooh this book gave me such Devney Perry vibes! The romance was intense and sizzling hot but the undertones of what else was going on was enough to keep me on edge as I flew through the pages. I was so keen to hear what Joel was hiding and when the reveal came, I was shocked! The ending and how it all came together with the side characters' assistance was perfect.
It's been so long since I had a five star romance but this one will be up there as one of my favourite books of the year. If you haven't read Lara Martin's books before, you're really missing out! Do yourself a favour and pick this one up.
Ooh this book gave me such Devney Perry vibes! The romance was intense and sizzling hot but the undertones of what else was going on was enough to keep me on edge as I flew through the pages. I was so keen to hear what Joel was hiding and when the reveal came, I was shocked! The ending and how it all came together with the side characters' assistance was perfect.
It's been so long since I had a five star romance but this one will be up there as one of my favourite books of the year. If you haven't read Lara Martin's books before, you're really missing out! Do yourself a favour and pick this one up.
October 30, 2025
Kenzie is Brown Oak’s sweetheart and is the last person anyone expects to kiss a stranger in a darkened storeroom. Joel is an enigmatic photographer who keeps to himself and hides his past. The town believes Joel is trouble, but Kenzie can see past his aloof persona. Joel is used to pushing people away, but Kenzie is hard to ignore with her chaotic and sunny energy. As sparks fly, danger is also afoot, bringing Kenzie and Joel closer together than they could have imagined.
I’ve read every book that Lara has published to date and have enjoyed each of them. When I first met Kenzie’s character in Phishing for Love, I knew that I wanted to get to know her better, so I was beyond excited when Lara announced that she was writing a book about Kenzie. Each of Lara’s books are standalones, but they each feature characters within the same world whose lives overlap, so while you can read each on its own, I’d highly recommend starting in order of publishing to get the fullest effect!
THE WEIGHT OF FALLING is set in the small town of Brown Oaks – it’s a cozy town where everyone knows everyone and they all look out for each other. Brown Oaks gives off the vibes of a place to call home. Kenzie is the sole narrator, which works well for this storytelling. I really enjoyed getting to know Kenzie better through her narration – she’s a shy woman who’s nothing but heart, and she really shines as the main character of her story. Joel is first encountered in Lara’s The Broken Heart Playlist and is a character I was also eager to see get a happily ever after. He’s a mysterious man who keeps his cards close to his chest and refrains from getting too close to others. I loved seeing how he let his guard down with Kenzie as their relationship grows.
Their romance starts off with a unique touch, and I loved the way that the universe kept bringing Kenzie and Joel together. There’s certainly a tangible chemistry between the two, and you can feel the passion in their kisses. The romance does remain closed door. I like the trust that builds between Kenzie and Joel as they both learn to show their heart.
As with her previous novels, I adored the crossover of past couples and getting to see where they’re at now versus where we left them at the ends of their stories. The friendship group is phenomenal, and I love just how supportive, and meddling, they can each be.
THE WEIGHT OF FALLING is a suspenseful romance, and I was eager to see what Lara had in store for us. The narrative has this constant undertone of unease that builds progressively over the course of the novel. I couldn’t help being unsettled and curious as to what would transpire. I loved how the suspenseful part was executed, though I would have enjoyed it to have been developed a little more than it was. That said, it still works well and I was satisfied by the conclusion and resulting epilogue that follows. As always, I am eager to see what Lara will write next and love seeing her grow as an author!
I would like to thank the author of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
I’ve read every book that Lara has published to date and have enjoyed each of them. When I first met Kenzie’s character in Phishing for Love, I knew that I wanted to get to know her better, so I was beyond excited when Lara announced that she was writing a book about Kenzie. Each of Lara’s books are standalones, but they each feature characters within the same world whose lives overlap, so while you can read each on its own, I’d highly recommend starting in order of publishing to get the fullest effect!
THE WEIGHT OF FALLING is set in the small town of Brown Oaks – it’s a cozy town where everyone knows everyone and they all look out for each other. Brown Oaks gives off the vibes of a place to call home. Kenzie is the sole narrator, which works well for this storytelling. I really enjoyed getting to know Kenzie better through her narration – she’s a shy woman who’s nothing but heart, and she really shines as the main character of her story. Joel is first encountered in Lara’s The Broken Heart Playlist and is a character I was also eager to see get a happily ever after. He’s a mysterious man who keeps his cards close to his chest and refrains from getting too close to others. I loved seeing how he let his guard down with Kenzie as their relationship grows.
Their romance starts off with a unique touch, and I loved the way that the universe kept bringing Kenzie and Joel together. There’s certainly a tangible chemistry between the two, and you can feel the passion in their kisses. The romance does remain closed door. I like the trust that builds between Kenzie and Joel as they both learn to show their heart.
As with her previous novels, I adored the crossover of past couples and getting to see where they’re at now versus where we left them at the ends of their stories. The friendship group is phenomenal, and I love just how supportive, and meddling, they can each be.
THE WEIGHT OF FALLING is a suspenseful romance, and I was eager to see what Lara had in store for us. The narrative has this constant undertone of unease that builds progressively over the course of the novel. I couldn’t help being unsettled and curious as to what would transpire. I loved how the suspenseful part was executed, though I would have enjoyed it to have been developed a little more than it was. That said, it still works well and I was satisfied by the conclusion and resulting epilogue that follows. As always, I am eager to see what Lara will write next and love seeing her grow as an author!
I would like to thank the author of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
November 3, 2025
Another incredible story from Lara Martin!!!
Kenzie is the small town sweetheart who everyone loves and will do anything for. She is always thinking of others first. Joel is the dark, intriguing, hot photographer who tends to keep to himself. When the two mistakenly kiss in a storeroom at a friend's wedding, fate starts to throw them together at every turn.
Wow! This book is pretty much unputdownable! The chemistry and tension was sizzling from the very start with that kiss in the storeroom. I was totally invested after that and read this book superfast! I love a dark and broody MMC, but the thing I loved most about Joel was how protective he was and how much he wanted Kenzie to feel comfortable with him. From the beginning we know that Joel has been hurt in the past and is hiding something. I was flying through the pages and couldn’t stop reading because I needed to know what happened to this man and I was so surprised when I found out! It was not anything I would have expected or seen coming. Once I got to the 80 percent mark, I was not letting my kindle out of my sight until I finished this amazing story! The suspense came into the book so naturally and never took away or overpowered the romance. One of my favorite things about this book was how Lara takes a broken, hurt character and gives him hope again. I also loved the fun and supportive best friend group and their text group chats and trivia night. Their interactions had me smiling. This book was the right mix of fun and emotional heaviness. It made me laugh and it kept me on the edge of my seat.
If you haven’t read a book by Lara Martin yet let me just say you need to! She is one of my very favorite authors. The other two books in this series Phishing for Love and The Broken Heart Playlist are just as amazing! I am going to miss these characters and Brown Oaks so much!
I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Kenzie is the small town sweetheart who everyone loves and will do anything for. She is always thinking of others first. Joel is the dark, intriguing, hot photographer who tends to keep to himself. When the two mistakenly kiss in a storeroom at a friend's wedding, fate starts to throw them together at every turn.
Wow! This book is pretty much unputdownable! The chemistry and tension was sizzling from the very start with that kiss in the storeroom. I was totally invested after that and read this book superfast! I love a dark and broody MMC, but the thing I loved most about Joel was how protective he was and how much he wanted Kenzie to feel comfortable with him. From the beginning we know that Joel has been hurt in the past and is hiding something. I was flying through the pages and couldn’t stop reading because I needed to know what happened to this man and I was so surprised when I found out! It was not anything I would have expected or seen coming. Once I got to the 80 percent mark, I was not letting my kindle out of my sight until I finished this amazing story! The suspense came into the book so naturally and never took away or overpowered the romance. One of my favorite things about this book was how Lara takes a broken, hurt character and gives him hope again. I also loved the fun and supportive best friend group and their text group chats and trivia night. Their interactions had me smiling. This book was the right mix of fun and emotional heaviness. It made me laugh and it kept me on the edge of my seat.
If you haven’t read a book by Lara Martin yet let me just say you need to! She is one of my very favorite authors. The other two books in this series Phishing for Love and The Broken Heart Playlist are just as amazing! I am going to miss these characters and Brown Oaks so much!
I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Kenzie is the town’s sweetheart. She’s a kind and loyal people pleaser until she gets involved with Joel who turns her into a bolder and more assertive version of herself. Joel’s a handsome and broody photographer who exudes mystery and is cagey about his past. As fate keeps bringing them together, they can’t help but open up their hearts to each other and finally give into the weight of falling in love. (We especially loved how Kate’s character described it in the book!)
We loved Kenzie and Joel’s relationship from the get go. The teasing, chemistry, pining for each other and the storeroom scene especially had us turning the pages. The romance between them had us rooting for their eventual happy ending. The mystery behind Joel’s past had us on the edge of our seat. When the suspense aspect to the story showed up, it was exciting and entertaining. It hit at the right point and was quickly solved in a super satisfying way.
We loved revisiting all the characters from Lara’s previous books (if you haven’t read them yet, do it now!). It was like hanging out with old friends you’ve missed. Our favourite part had to be the group text message exchanges between the friends and their partners. They added some fun and laughter to balance out the angst and mystery surrounding Joel. Although most of Lara’s books are interconnected, they can very easily be read as standalones.
Many thanks to @laramartinauthor for the e-book ARC in exchange for our honest review. The Weight of Falling is OUT NOW!
Read if you like:
▪️Romantic Suspense
▪️Small town
▪️Mysterious MMC
▪️Fake relationship
▪️Closed door
Kenzie is the town’s sweetheart. She’s a kind and loyal people pleaser until she gets involved with Joel who turns her into a bolder and more assertive version of herself. Joel’s a handsome and broody photographer who exudes mystery and is cagey about his past. As fate keeps bringing them together, they can’t help but open up their hearts to each other and finally give into the weight of falling in love. (We especially loved how Kate’s character described it in the book!)
We loved Kenzie and Joel’s relationship from the get go. The teasing, chemistry, pining for each other and the storeroom scene especially had us turning the pages. The romance between them had us rooting for their eventual happy ending. The mystery behind Joel’s past had us on the edge of our seat. When the suspense aspect to the story showed up, it was exciting and entertaining. It hit at the right point and was quickly solved in a super satisfying way.
We loved revisiting all the characters from Lara’s previous books (if you haven’t read them yet, do it now!). It was like hanging out with old friends you’ve missed. Our favourite part had to be the group text message exchanges between the friends and their partners. They added some fun and laughter to balance out the angst and mystery surrounding Joel. Although most of Lara’s books are interconnected, they can very easily be read as standalones.
Many thanks to @laramartinauthor for the e-book ARC in exchange for our honest review. The Weight of Falling is OUT NOW!
Read if you like:
▪️Romantic Suspense
▪️Small town
▪️Mysterious MMC
▪️Fake relationship
▪️Closed door
October 27, 2025
LOVED IT!
4.5 ⭐️
■What to expect:
▪︎Her pov
▪︎Romantic suspense
▪︎Fake dating
▪︎Grumpy/Sunshine
▪︎Found Family
▪︎Small Town
▪︎Who hurt you
▪︎Emotional
▪︎Secrets
■What I liked:
▪︎Writing
I’ve always liked this author’s writing style—it's simple, easy to read, and often makes you laugh with its many humorous scenes. What I loved most about this story is that everything written has a purpose, which keeps the plot moving and makes you want to keep reading to find out what happens next.
▪︎Plot
It had both romance and suspense, which is a combination I really enjoy. The main character was mysterious and full of secrets, and throughout the book you’re eager to uncover them, hoping he won’t break the main character’s heart. There were several chat exchanges between her and her friends, especially. I don’t usually enjoy reading those, but in this case they worked perfectly—and were super funny. By the end, when the secrets are revealed, you can hardly believe it.
▪︎Romance
The action starts from the very first chapter. You can tell she feels attracted to him, and then an unexpected encounter in a storeroom brings them together in a way she never imagined. There are lots of funny, sweet, and surprising scenes. What I loved most is how he helps her trust herself more.
☆In short, it was a great story, my favorite from this author so far. I highly recommend it!
4.5 ⭐️
■What to expect:
▪︎Her pov
▪︎Romantic suspense
▪︎Fake dating
▪︎Grumpy/Sunshine
▪︎Found Family
▪︎Small Town
▪︎Who hurt you
▪︎Emotional
▪︎Secrets
■What I liked:
▪︎Writing
I’ve always liked this author’s writing style—it's simple, easy to read, and often makes you laugh with its many humorous scenes. What I loved most about this story is that everything written has a purpose, which keeps the plot moving and makes you want to keep reading to find out what happens next.
▪︎Plot
It had both romance and suspense, which is a combination I really enjoy. The main character was mysterious and full of secrets, and throughout the book you’re eager to uncover them, hoping he won’t break the main character’s heart. There were several chat exchanges between her and her friends, especially. I don’t usually enjoy reading those, but in this case they worked perfectly—and were super funny. By the end, when the secrets are revealed, you can hardly believe it.
▪︎Romance
The action starts from the very first chapter. You can tell she feels attracted to him, and then an unexpected encounter in a storeroom brings them together in a way she never imagined. There are lots of funny, sweet, and surprising scenes. What I loved most is how he helps her trust herself more.
☆In short, it was a great story, my favorite from this author so far. I highly recommend it!
November 19, 2025
This is the perfect small town contemporary romance with a little romantic suspense sprinkled in. It was so easy to get lost in the world of Kenzie and Joel in the small town of Brown Oaks. The tension, banter, and angst between the two were *chef’s kiss.* I have read all of Lara’s books, and this one is my new favorite. If you love a good closed door romance with a little suspense, this is the book for you. I also did not predict the little twist at the end. Through out the whole book I was trying to figure out what past Joel was hiding, and I didn’t see it coming once it was revealed. Joel was a total grump, but oh so swoon-worthy. I was giggling and kicking my feet through the whole book. It is part of an inter-connected world; but can be read as a stand-alone. Also, Lara is the absolute sweetest and deserves all the hype and praise.
-fake dating
-small town
-grumpy/sunshine
-closed door
-Romantic suspense
-fake dating
-small town
-grumpy/sunshine
-closed door
-Romantic suspense
October 28, 2025
4.5 / 5
In The Weight of Falling, Kenzie is a shy greeting card illustrator and the sweetheart of her small town of Brown Oaks. She has an unexpected and steamy meetup with Joel Adams, a mysterious local photographer, at a friend’s wedding. Lots of events lead to them fake dating, mostly to get the town off of Joel’s back, but their chemistry is very real. The big question is : Will Joel’s troubled and dangerous past catch up to them?
I loved the mix of suspense and romance in this one! It was such a unique combination of the sweet, small town romance that I expected and some honestly gasp-inducing twists and turns. The ending left me on the edge of my seat for sure! I was not expecting the secrets that Joel was keeping AT ALL. I loved Kenzie and Joel and thought that their chemistry was off the charts from that first scene at the wedding. And the friendships were a big highlight for me, too. I adored the cameos from Martin’s previous novels! Kenzie and her friends’ banter and the way they care for each other just felt so warm and supportive. We all need friendships like she has!
If you enjoy a small-town, swoony (but closed door) romance with a healthy dose of suspense, give The Weight of Falling a read!
In The Weight of Falling, Kenzie is a shy greeting card illustrator and the sweetheart of her small town of Brown Oaks. She has an unexpected and steamy meetup with Joel Adams, a mysterious local photographer, at a friend’s wedding. Lots of events lead to them fake dating, mostly to get the town off of Joel’s back, but their chemistry is very real. The big question is : Will Joel’s troubled and dangerous past catch up to them?
I loved the mix of suspense and romance in this one! It was such a unique combination of the sweet, small town romance that I expected and some honestly gasp-inducing twists and turns. The ending left me on the edge of my seat for sure! I was not expecting the secrets that Joel was keeping AT ALL. I loved Kenzie and Joel and thought that their chemistry was off the charts from that first scene at the wedding. And the friendships were a big highlight for me, too. I adored the cameos from Martin’s previous novels! Kenzie and her friends’ banter and the way they care for each other just felt so warm and supportive. We all need friendships like she has!
If you enjoy a small-town, swoony (but closed door) romance with a healthy dose of suspense, give The Weight of Falling a read!
October 31, 2025
I really loved this book! You have a small town romance with some mystery mixed in. Joel the main male character has secrets he is keeping that have kept him from being in any relationship. I was anxiously waiting to find them out, then when I found out I was shocked! It was so well put together. I also loved how Joel encouraged Kenzie to be the bold version of herself. Then there are group chats with the friends. I really think group chats are my favorite. They make me laugh and they should be in every book.
So if you enjoy a small-town romance with some suspense, secrets and found family, I say give The Weight of Falling a read!
So if you enjoy a small-town romance with some suspense, secrets and found family, I say give The Weight of Falling a read!
October 30, 2025
another masterpiece by Lara!!
full review coming...
full review coming...
October 22, 2025
Lara Martin’s romance books usually contain some difficult circumstances to overcome. This book was a nice balance for me with just enough danger and intrigue mixed with romance.
Kenzie is usually shy, but lately finds herself being bold around Joel. A kind aloof man that is shrouded in mystery. No one knows his past and he wants to keep it that way. As Kenzie and Joel find themselves in each other’s company more, things escalate quickly. While the chemistry is there, Joel keeps pulling back from it.
I loved watching Joel realize that he could trust his secrets with Kenzie and their mutual friends. I loved the support he received. This book kept me hooked with a mystery to solve, a person to understand, and interactions between the two main characters that kept me rooting for them.
Kenzie is usually shy, but lately finds herself being bold around Joel. A kind aloof man that is shrouded in mystery. No one knows his past and he wants to keep it that way. As Kenzie and Joel find themselves in each other’s company more, things escalate quickly. While the chemistry is there, Joel keeps pulling back from it.
I loved watching Joel realize that he could trust his secrets with Kenzie and their mutual friends. I loved the support he received. This book kept me hooked with a mystery to solve, a person to understand, and interactions between the two main characters that kept me rooting for them.
November 18, 2025
I LOVED this book! It made me laugh out loud, a LOT. The characters were genuine, and it felt like I was hanging out with my friends.
This is part of a series (maybe not officially), but you do not have to read those to enjoy this book. It might help to read the others first, just to have the background on several characters and their relationships.
Kenzie is the nice friend. She cares about everyone and doesn't want to see anyone in her town harmed. She can be a bit of a people pleaser. That is, until she locks lips with Joel - by mistake, sort of! Their relationship starts slowly, and I appreciate that neither rushed into anything. Kenzie and Joel take their time getting to know one another, but that is not by choice. He has a past that he is trying to keep under wraps, and when the truth is revealed, you will understand why. However, Kenzie is not going to let that stop her. These two are destined to be together.
While this is a romance, it also features mystery, tension, and a few heart-stopping moments. I had a hard time putting this book down. I felt right at home with the characters since I had read the previous books and understood their relationship. I also love that these three women run a greeting card business! The cards they design are witty and touching.
This book is also about friendship. This group of friends will not let anyone or anything come between them, and when one person needs help, they all jump in and do what needs to be done.
This was the perfect read for me, and we give it 5 paws up.
This is part of a series (maybe not officially), but you do not have to read those to enjoy this book. It might help to read the others first, just to have the background on several characters and their relationships.
Kenzie is the nice friend. She cares about everyone and doesn't want to see anyone in her town harmed. She can be a bit of a people pleaser. That is, until she locks lips with Joel - by mistake, sort of! Their relationship starts slowly, and I appreciate that neither rushed into anything. Kenzie and Joel take their time getting to know one another, but that is not by choice. He has a past that he is trying to keep under wraps, and when the truth is revealed, you will understand why. However, Kenzie is not going to let that stop her. These two are destined to be together.
While this is a romance, it also features mystery, tension, and a few heart-stopping moments. I had a hard time putting this book down. I felt right at home with the characters since I had read the previous books and understood their relationship. I also love that these three women run a greeting card business! The cards they design are witty and touching.
This book is also about friendship. This group of friends will not let anyone or anything come between them, and when one person needs help, they all jump in and do what needs to be done.
This was the perfect read for me, and we give it 5 paws up.
November 21, 2025
Y’all know I LOVEEEE me my Lara Martin books 📚 and her newest release has got to be my favorite of hers so far 🤭 packed with romance, danger, and hilarious banter, this book was everything 💗
Kenzie. I’ve loved Kenzie since we met her and it was SO FUN to have her book 📖 she is such a ray of sunshine ☀️ and I loved how she grew as a character 🥹
Joel. The SECRETS this man keeps 😮 insane!! This man is fighting demons 💔 I love how we watched his heart soften and learn to trust and love again 🥹
In true Lara Martin fashion, I could not put this book down 📚 I loved the suspense elements and WOW DID IT GET SUSPENSEFUL 😮 and the ROMANCE 🪭 I could FEEL it in my bones. Seriously go read this book!
⚠️ CW: innuendo, swearing (minor, except one b* during an intense scene), harassment and name calling), foster system, violence ⚠️
There is one more thing but it is a big spoiler so dm me for more info!
Kenzie. I’ve loved Kenzie since we met her and it was SO FUN to have her book 📖 she is such a ray of sunshine ☀️ and I loved how she grew as a character 🥹
Joel. The SECRETS this man keeps 😮 insane!! This man is fighting demons 💔 I love how we watched his heart soften and learn to trust and love again 🥹
In true Lara Martin fashion, I could not put this book down 📚 I loved the suspense elements and WOW DID IT GET SUSPENSEFUL 😮 and the ROMANCE 🪭 I could FEEL it in my bones. Seriously go read this book!
⚠️ CW: innuendo, swearing (minor, except one b* during an intense scene), harassment and name calling), foster system, violence ⚠️
There is one more thing but it is a big spoiler so dm me for more info!
December 11, 2025
I loved being back in Brown Oaks with the lovable characters from Lara Martin’s previous stories and seeing how their lives are entangled. This is a small-town contemporary romance with slow-burn tension, mystery, and lots of charm. The heartfelt romantic moments paired with the unfolding mystery held my attention from start to finish and kept me completely engaged. I loved the meddling neighbors and cozy community feeling. Overall a great read to continue the series or read as a stand alone!
January 1, 2026
Loved everything about this book. I'm so glad I found it and that this is the first book i read in 2026. The way he always cared for her...aaah...love their story
March 6, 2026
The Weight of Falling
Lara Martin has out done herself again. What I love most about her books is it only takes a couple chapters and I’m hooked! This book was so fun because you get a glimpse of many different characters from her previous stories. It really made me want to go back and reread some, which I still might!
This book follows Kenzie, the small town sweetheart, she finds herself in a unique position with Joel the handsome photographer. Everyone says Joel is trouble by the way he presents himself and never talks about his past.
However, Kenzie might be the one to be able to push past his steel exterior but not without risk. There’s a reason Joel has kept his past a secret, everyone stays safer that way especially Kenzie. Soon the secret comes out and it’s dark and deadly.
•small town romance
•grumpy sunshine
•opposites attract
•fake dating
•slow burn
•mystery/suspense
Lara Martin has out done herself again. What I love most about her books is it only takes a couple chapters and I’m hooked! This book was so fun because you get a glimpse of many different characters from her previous stories. It really made me want to go back and reread some, which I still might!
This book follows Kenzie, the small town sweetheart, she finds herself in a unique position with Joel the handsome photographer. Everyone says Joel is trouble by the way he presents himself and never talks about his past.
However, Kenzie might be the one to be able to push past his steel exterior but not without risk. There’s a reason Joel has kept his past a secret, everyone stays safer that way especially Kenzie. Soon the secret comes out and it’s dark and deadly.
•small town romance
•grumpy sunshine
•opposites attract
•fake dating
•slow burn
•mystery/suspense
October 31, 2025
Small-town sweetheart meets broody, complicated male. Oh my heart!
Continuing to build her growing standing in the small town romance genre, Ms Martin does not disappoint with her latest offering. Lara employs her gorgeous command of language to craft tender moments which reveal more of her core cast of characters, as she builds the romantic suspense between Kenzie and Joel.
While this stands alone as its own story, readers will enjoy the interconnected world of characters that Lara has created through her earlier novels.
Continuing to build her growing standing in the small town romance genre, Ms Martin does not disappoint with her latest offering. Lara employs her gorgeous command of language to craft tender moments which reveal more of her core cast of characters, as she builds the romantic suspense between Kenzie and Joel.
While this stands alone as its own story, readers will enjoy the interconnected world of characters that Lara has created through her earlier novels.
November 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this one. I went in blind and didn’t even know that it had a suspense plot line until part way in, but that part really kicked this up a notch!
The banter was fun and I loved the text conversations and found family. I also loved seeing characters from Lara’s previous books. (This can definitely be read without reading those first though!)
Content: kissing
The banter was fun and I loved the text conversations and found family. I also loved seeing characters from Lara’s previous books. (This can definitely be read without reading those first though!)
Content: kissing
November 10, 2025
Kenzie is the friend of sisters Tess from Phishing for Love and Kate from The Broken Heart Playlist. While characters from both previous books appear in The Weight of Falling, I do not feel it’s necessary to read in order but it definitely would help with understanding dynamics between the group.
I read this book in just two days- I couldn’t put it down! I was so intrigued by Joel and his back story and when all his secrets were finally revealed, I was not disappointed. I did feel like everything happened so quickly after the secrets were revealed though and I would’ve loved for the story to be a bit longer for more detail to have been provided around what played out. I loved getting to see what the couples from Lara’s earlier books, Tess and Aaron and Kate and Gideon, were up to and thoroughly enjoyed all the group texts included throughout.
Read if you enjoy:
💙 Emotional romance
🩵 Romantic suspense
🤍 Small town romance
💙 Fake dating
🩵 Grumpy sunshine
🤍 Banter, banter, banter
I read this book in just two days- I couldn’t put it down! I was so intrigued by Joel and his back story and when all his secrets were finally revealed, I was not disappointed. I did feel like everything happened so quickly after the secrets were revealed though and I would’ve loved for the story to be a bit longer for more detail to have been provided around what played out. I loved getting to see what the couples from Lara’s earlier books, Tess and Aaron and Kate and Gideon, were up to and thoroughly enjoyed all the group texts included throughout.
Read if you enjoy:
💙 Emotional romance
🩵 Romantic suspense
🤍 Small town romance
💙 Fake dating
🩵 Grumpy sunshine
🤍 Banter, banter, banter
October 25, 2025
*4.5 stars*
October 23, 2025
🌟 REVIEW 🌟
TITLE: The Weight of Falling
AUTHOR: Lara Martin
4 / 5 ⭐️
🩷 DISCLAIMER:
Received as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
💭 THOUGHTS:
Fake dating is my favourite trope for a romance and this certainty didn’t disappoint! I was giggling at every awkward moment or coincidence and all the witty banter between Kenzie and Joel was *chef’s kiss*.
Kenzie is such a fun FMC. She’s awkward and clumsy sometimes but has such a gentle soul. Her love for her family, friends and community is what makes her special. Her character development was executed really well as she began the story a naive people pleaser, but became someone with the perfect mix of vulnerability and power to go after what she wants and protect that peace.
Joel is the perfect amount of broody and mysterious with glimpses of the softness that lies within. In true Lara Martin style, our MMC has his secrets but I was not prepared for this one. It was a completely unexpected and interesting twist that created an intense, edge of your seat final act while still managing to wrap up the whole story in a neat bow by the end.
I continue to love the world Martin creates with these characters. Getting to see the previous couples and where they are now in their relationships is so fun and feels like a special treat. I truly hope expansion continues for the Brown Oaks community and this circle of friends turned family.
It was also exciting to see my name pop up! When Lara asked to use my name for a cameo character I was beyond flattered and so excited! I’m so grateful for the continued opportunity to work with someone whose talent I truly believe in. 💙
✏️ If you’ve read this book, let me know what your thoughts were in the comments.
TITLE: The Weight of Falling
AUTHOR: Lara Martin
4 / 5 ⭐️
🩷 DISCLAIMER:
Received as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
💭 THOUGHTS:
Fake dating is my favourite trope for a romance and this certainty didn’t disappoint! I was giggling at every awkward moment or coincidence and all the witty banter between Kenzie and Joel was *chef’s kiss*.
Kenzie is such a fun FMC. She’s awkward and clumsy sometimes but has such a gentle soul. Her love for her family, friends and community is what makes her special. Her character development was executed really well as she began the story a naive people pleaser, but became someone with the perfect mix of vulnerability and power to go after what she wants and protect that peace.
Joel is the perfect amount of broody and mysterious with glimpses of the softness that lies within. In true Lara Martin style, our MMC has his secrets but I was not prepared for this one. It was a completely unexpected and interesting twist that created an intense, edge of your seat final act while still managing to wrap up the whole story in a neat bow by the end.
I continue to love the world Martin creates with these characters. Getting to see the previous couples and where they are now in their relationships is so fun and feels like a special treat. I truly hope expansion continues for the Brown Oaks community and this circle of friends turned family.
It was also exciting to see my name pop up! When Lara asked to use my name for a cameo character I was beyond flattered and so excited! I’m so grateful for the continued opportunity to work with someone whose talent I truly believe in. 💙
✏️ If you’ve read this book, let me know what your thoughts were in the comments.
January 12, 2026
4 Stars / 0 spice
The Weight of Falling by Lara Martin had me giggling, gasping, and completely invested. I fell hard for both Joel and Mackenzie as the universe kept throwing them together in ways I couldn’t have predicted.
I thoroughly enjoyed both Mackenzie and Joel's story. It was exciting to see couples from the previous two books come together in this novel, but it still works perfectly as a standalone. Some scenarios felt a bit far-fetched or didn’t always align with the characters’ personalities, but the twist in this novel genuinely surprised me and kept me on the edge of my seat—which I was NOT expecting from a romance read. I loved how the pacing balanced the tension with sweet, heartfelt moments, and the author’s humour really landed in the most unexpected places. The dynamic between Joel and Mackenzie felt natural and layered, and I couldn’t help but root for them through every obstacle.
Mackenzie is the town sweetheart. She is relatable with so much internal dialogue that feels raw and authentic. Her vulnerability and determination made her easy to cheer for, and she added so much charm to the story.
Joel is mysterious and guarded. He is loyal, protective, and yet keeps his cards close to his chest. Watching him unravel and reveal layers of himself was fascinating, and the chemistry between him and Mackenzie made every interaction electric.
Overall, The Weight of Falling is a heartwarming, witty, and surprisingly suspenseful romance that perfectly balances humour, emotion, and chemistry—leaving me smiling long after the last page.
The Tropes:
Fake engagement
Small town
Grumpy / Sunshine
Opposites attract
Slow burn
The Weight of Falling by Lara Martin had me giggling, gasping, and completely invested. I fell hard for both Joel and Mackenzie as the universe kept throwing them together in ways I couldn’t have predicted.
I thoroughly enjoyed both Mackenzie and Joel's story. It was exciting to see couples from the previous two books come together in this novel, but it still works perfectly as a standalone. Some scenarios felt a bit far-fetched or didn’t always align with the characters’ personalities, but the twist in this novel genuinely surprised me and kept me on the edge of my seat—which I was NOT expecting from a romance read. I loved how the pacing balanced the tension with sweet, heartfelt moments, and the author’s humour really landed in the most unexpected places. The dynamic between Joel and Mackenzie felt natural and layered, and I couldn’t help but root for them through every obstacle.
Mackenzie is the town sweetheart. She is relatable with so much internal dialogue that feels raw and authentic. Her vulnerability and determination made her easy to cheer for, and she added so much charm to the story.
Joel is mysterious and guarded. He is loyal, protective, and yet keeps his cards close to his chest. Watching him unravel and reveal layers of himself was fascinating, and the chemistry between him and Mackenzie made every interaction electric.
Overall, The Weight of Falling is a heartwarming, witty, and surprisingly suspenseful romance that perfectly balances humour, emotion, and chemistry—leaving me smiling long after the last page.
The Tropes:
Fake engagement
Small town
Grumpy / Sunshine
Opposites attract
Slow burn
January 19, 2026
Finished this in a day because it had me completely hooked. Joel was the sweetest and I love how protective he was of Kenzie (the gym scene goddamn), who’s the “town sweetheart” (…that seems to be something I like reading about). Pretty standard for a small town romance - gossip, rumours… you get the idea. There were times when I knew exactly what was going to happen, as well. The ending I feel could’ve been drawn out a lot more - there wasn’t a chance for any sort of suspense to build until the last quarter of the book and it all went by too quickly, in my opinion. Not much to say, otherwise - I enjoyed it, was hoping it could pull me out of my slump but I don’t think this’ll do it. Oh well.
Quotes I loved:
“Today, I was trying to forget what it feels like to want something I can’t have.” (just kiss her already dumbass)
“There are a hundred reasons to walk away from you, but every time I’m in the same room with you, every time you look at me with those blue eyes I can drown in, I forget every single one of them.”
Quotes I loved:
“Today, I was trying to forget what it feels like to want something I can’t have.” (just kiss her already dumbass)
“There are a hundred reasons to walk away from you, but every time I’m in the same room with you, every time you look at me with those blue eyes I can drown in, I forget every single one of them.”
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews