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Love in Fairwick Falls #5
Falling at the Barre
Luca Bishop has one no dating until his first-grader graduates high school. Period.
Between running a growing auto body shop and solo-parenting, romance isn’t just off the table—it’s somewhere in the garage under a tarp. And with his schedule, it's time to hire a nanny.
Enter his daughter's gorgeous new dance teacher, who's also their next-door-neighbor. The one who smells like cinnamon.
Who makes his kid beam and who laughs like sunshine.
And who already feels like his—if only she weren’t leaving.
Ballet didn’t dump Olivia Maroo—it just stopped calling.
At 33, Olivia knows pliés won't pay the bills forever, but she’s not ready to hang up her pointe shoes just yet.
She just needs a few months to train for auditions, regroup, and totally not fall apart. So she returns to her hometown for the fall—where the maple syrup flows, the apple pie pancake breakfasts are elite, and the existential dread is pumpkin spice–flavored.
In exchange for ballet studio space, she agrees to teach at the local dance studio. It’s temporary. Chill. Fine.
...Until she accidentally volunteers to nanny for her most adorably chaotic student—who just so happens to live next door with her extremely hot, extremely off-limits single dad.
It has to be temporary.
But with cozy movie nights, cider-fueled slow dances, and a life she’s already half in love with, she’s not prepared for the kind of fall that changes everything.
Single dad x nannyHe falls firstHurt/ComfortMutual piningNeighors-to-loversNo third act breakupSpicy scenes!Falling at the Barre is a cozy, spicy, small-town romance that can be read as a standalone. HEA guaranteed, no cheating, no third act breakup, and no cheating!
Between running a growing auto body shop and solo-parenting, romance isn’t just off the table—it’s somewhere in the garage under a tarp. And with his schedule, it's time to hire a nanny.
Enter his daughter's gorgeous new dance teacher, who's also their next-door-neighbor. The one who smells like cinnamon.
Who makes his kid beam and who laughs like sunshine.
And who already feels like his—if only she weren’t leaving.
Ballet didn’t dump Olivia Maroo—it just stopped calling.
At 33, Olivia knows pliés won't pay the bills forever, but she’s not ready to hang up her pointe shoes just yet.
She just needs a few months to train for auditions, regroup, and totally not fall apart. So she returns to her hometown for the fall—where the maple syrup flows, the apple pie pancake breakfasts are elite, and the existential dread is pumpkin spice–flavored.
In exchange for ballet studio space, she agrees to teach at the local dance studio. It’s temporary. Chill. Fine.
...Until she accidentally volunteers to nanny for her most adorably chaotic student—who just so happens to live next door with her extremely hot, extremely off-limits single dad.
It has to be temporary.
But with cozy movie nights, cider-fueled slow dances, and a life she’s already half in love with, she’s not prepared for the kind of fall that changes everything.
Single dad x nannyHe falls firstHurt/ComfortMutual piningNeighors-to-loversNo third act breakupSpicy scenes!Falling at the Barre is a cozy, spicy, small-town romance that can be read as a standalone. HEA guaranteed, no cheating, no third act breakup, and no cheating!
- GenresRomanceContemporary
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 11, 2025
14 people are currently reading
117 people want to read
About the author
Elise Kennedy
18 books261 followersI write cozy, steamy, contemporary romances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
January 2, 2026
Thank you to the publisher Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I absolutely loved this book, this was a very cosy small town romance and I have no regrets about staying up late to finish it. I loved Olivia, Luca and A.B was absolutely adorable, the three of them together was too cute. This was a relatively low drama with no third act breakup romance, it was so easy to read and lose myself in. I felt for Olivia as it’s not easy to make it in the ballet world and ballet dancers retire very early, I enjoyed watching her find a new place for herself. I liked Luca, he needed to put himself first as there were so many things he was missing out on and so many of A.B’s milestones, he and Olivia were perfect together. I enjoyed everything about this book, the pacing, the plot, the characters and the setting, this was such a feel good book and I loved it. Would not hesitate to recommend it.
I absolutely loved this book, this was a very cosy small town romance and I have no regrets about staying up late to finish it. I loved Olivia, Luca and A.B was absolutely adorable, the three of them together was too cute. This was a relatively low drama with no third act breakup romance, it was so easy to read and lose myself in. I felt for Olivia as it’s not easy to make it in the ballet world and ballet dancers retire very early, I enjoyed watching her find a new place for herself. I liked Luca, he needed to put himself first as there were so many things he was missing out on and so many of A.B’s milestones, he and Olivia were perfect together. I enjoyed everything about this book, the pacing, the plot, the characters and the setting, this was such a feel good book and I loved it. Would not hesitate to recommend it.
December 12, 2025
Falling at the Barre by @smalltown.romance
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
OUT NOW!
I’ll try and keep this short and sweet because I’m an emotional wreck after finishing this lovely lovely book.
It was lovely to be back in Fairwick falls, I love the world the author has created, the community puts stars hollow to shame with its enthusiasm for town events and the people are so inherently warm and interesting. I have a soft spot for Pearl and Reed so seeing more of them was like bumping into an old friend! Loved it.
Olivia and Luca are both emotionally intelligent, kind and honest people and I absolutely loved reading their story. AB is the cutest kid known to mankind and I cried my eyes out during a particularly emotional scene for her towards the end of the book (so much so my dog came over concerned 😢🤣).
The slow burn has all the yearning and tension you could ever want, the romance is chock full of sweetness and sincerity and the spice burns off the page. You have to read this book!
I particularly loved Luca’s internal battle to accepting that his sh*tty childhood had impacted how he let others care for him and the interactions with his mum broke my heart a little. I don’t think I’ve ever related to a sentiment in a book more than “in my house there’s no yelling” 🥺, thank you to the author for how you handled this part. It was beautiful.
Such a good read! I cannot wait for the next one, love Allison already!
Thank you so much for the ARC @smalltown.romance 💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
OUT NOW!
I’ll try and keep this short and sweet because I’m an emotional wreck after finishing this lovely lovely book.
It was lovely to be back in Fairwick falls, I love the world the author has created, the community puts stars hollow to shame with its enthusiasm for town events and the people are so inherently warm and interesting. I have a soft spot for Pearl and Reed so seeing more of them was like bumping into an old friend! Loved it.
Olivia and Luca are both emotionally intelligent, kind and honest people and I absolutely loved reading their story. AB is the cutest kid known to mankind and I cried my eyes out during a particularly emotional scene for her towards the end of the book (so much so my dog came over concerned 😢🤣).
The slow burn has all the yearning and tension you could ever want, the romance is chock full of sweetness and sincerity and the spice burns off the page. You have to read this book!
I particularly loved Luca’s internal battle to accepting that his sh*tty childhood had impacted how he let others care for him and the interactions with his mum broke my heart a little. I don’t think I’ve ever related to a sentiment in a book more than “in my house there’s no yelling” 🥺, thank you to the author for how you handled this part. It was beautiful.
Such a good read! I cannot wait for the next one, love Allison already!
Thank you so much for the ARC @smalltown.romance 💕
December 7, 2025
✨Single dad
✨Nanny
✨Found family
✨Forced proximity
✨Insta-love
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved this book! It was so incredibly sweet and wholesome (with plenty of spice 😉)! Olivia & Luca had such a great relationship with electric chemistry. AB was such a cute little girl & I loved how much she loved Olivia. The small town fund family vibes were beautiful & I want to know more about all the couples so I'm definitely going to check out more from this author! :)
Huge thanks to NetGalley & Elise Kennedy for an ARC 🫶🏼
✨Nanny
✨Found family
✨Forced proximity
✨Insta-love
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved this book! It was so incredibly sweet and wholesome (with plenty of spice 😉)! Olivia & Luca had such a great relationship with electric chemistry. AB was such a cute little girl & I loved how much she loved Olivia. The small town fund family vibes were beautiful & I want to know more about all the couples so I'm definitely going to check out more from this author! :)
Huge thanks to NetGalley & Elise Kennedy for an ARC 🫶🏼
December 7, 2025
Falling at the Barre is everything I hoped for and more!
Elise is kind to both her readers and characters in a way that makes for an incredibly comforting read while still maintaining a plot and pace that keeps the pages turning! The slow burn in this book was to die for and the characters unbelievably lovable.
Additionally, as a former ballerina, the research that went into the ballet portion of the book was obvious and really kept me in the story rather than being distracted at all.
This is a beautiful book in every facet. Thank you to Elise Kennedy for the ARC to review! I cannot wait to read what comes next in Fairwick Falls!
Elise is kind to both her readers and characters in a way that makes for an incredibly comforting read while still maintaining a plot and pace that keeps the pages turning! The slow burn in this book was to die for and the characters unbelievably lovable.
Additionally, as a former ballerina, the research that went into the ballet portion of the book was obvious and really kept me in the story rather than being distracted at all.
This is a beautiful book in every facet. Thank you to Elise Kennedy for the ARC to review! I cannot wait to read what comes next in Fairwick Falls!
November 28, 2025
Awesome small town romance! Pining and possibilities.. Love, love, loved it! Seriously mushy love at first sight vibes. Heartfelt and steamy-sweet..
December 14, 2025
I adored this book - Elise Kennedy is one of my favourite authors when it comes to small town romances and this was no exception - the spice was also fantastic! One of my favourite tropes - a must read!
Currently reading
December 14, 2025I got it as an ARC!! I know it came out already so I need to read it asap but plss be good😭
December 1, 2025
Quick Summary: A nanny +single dad, finding home romance
My Review: Falling at the Barre by Elise Kennedy is book #5 in the Love in Fairwick Falls series. It is scheduled for release on 12/11/25.
About the Book: "Luca Bishop has one rule: no dating until his first-grader graduates high school.
Enter his daughter's gorgeous new dance teacher, who's also their next-door-neighbor."
In My Own Words: A tatted dad with a heart of gold falls in love at first sight with a ballet dancer who is on a temporary hiatus. When she becomes his daughter's nanny, his interest changes, even as he tries to keep things strictly professional.
What I Liked/Loved:
🍁 I love a great single daddy story. When a girl dad situation comes into play, I love it even more. This story was all about that.
🍁 AB was the cutest! Her sweet unicorn energy was a total vibe. I didn't sleep on her feminist-in-the-making voice or her"chaotic" playfulness. She sure kept things interesting.
🍁 I loved that the author addressed food allergies and learning differences.
🍁 I loved the found family theme. All of the introduced characters played a supportive role, in some way, in AB, AP, and Luca's lives. That stood out to me.
🍁 I loved that Liv was in a transitional phase of her life. Her do I/don't I dilemma was easy to relate to, making it all the more real. I liked seeing how she wrestled with her choices. I liked that she could still see the possibilities of what could be, even if it differed from her original dream.
🍁 I liked the diverse relationships that were featured. Sibling dynamics, parent/child connections, dysfunctional familial relationships, etc. were highlighted.
🍁 I really liked the romantic elements in the story. This had nothing to do with spice. It had more to do with the heart and emotion. There were a few special snapshot moments that stood out.
🍁 I loved that the leads were so easy to like. They were good people with good hearts. They both cared about Goob. I appreciated that they thoughtfully considered her feelings and mental/emotional health over what might have been easiest for them.
🍁 The slow burn/fiery chemistry angle was sparks and fireworks, to be sure.
🍁 The supportive cast was very colorful and quite memorable, for that matter. Liv's mom, Georgia, Wells & Allison, and Reed & Pearl stood out.
🍁 The HGGC was hilarious. I loved it!
🍁 I loved the cuteness overload via the dancing leaves.
My Favorite Scenes (coded, so as to avoid spoilers):
✨ Speechless
✨ Memories in Purple
✨ The HG Experience
✨ Mama Bear
✨ Talks & Tears
✨ The Gathering
Honorable Mention - > Accidents Happen!
My Final Say: I genuinely liked this story. It was simple and sweet. Conflict and drama were low. Love and laughter were high. It was cozy, with small town domesticity as a featured angle. I believe that is what made it so charming.
*** I cannot wait to read about Wells and Allison. That final scene between them was insane. All I have to say is...yes and please. ***
Other: Readers who enjoy small town settings, close proximity working scenarios, found family connections, and insta-love relationships should like this novel.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Character Chemistry: 💥
Heat Factor/Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tension/Angst: 🫶
HEA: 💕
Series: Yes
Appreciation is extended to the author/publisher and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to a digital ARC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. It was a pleasure to review. I look forward to becoming better acquainted with this series of books.
My Review: Falling at the Barre by Elise Kennedy is book #5 in the Love in Fairwick Falls series. It is scheduled for release on 12/11/25.
About the Book: "Luca Bishop has one rule: no dating until his first-grader graduates high school.
Enter his daughter's gorgeous new dance teacher, who's also their next-door-neighbor."
In My Own Words: A tatted dad with a heart of gold falls in love at first sight with a ballet dancer who is on a temporary hiatus. When she becomes his daughter's nanny, his interest changes, even as he tries to keep things strictly professional.
What I Liked/Loved:
🍁 I love a great single daddy story. When a girl dad situation comes into play, I love it even more. This story was all about that.
🍁 AB was the cutest! Her sweet unicorn energy was a total vibe. I didn't sleep on her feminist-in-the-making voice or her"chaotic" playfulness. She sure kept things interesting.
🍁 I loved that the author addressed food allergies and learning differences.
🍁 I loved the found family theme. All of the introduced characters played a supportive role, in some way, in AB, AP, and Luca's lives. That stood out to me.
🍁 I loved that Liv was in a transitional phase of her life. Her do I/don't I dilemma was easy to relate to, making it all the more real. I liked seeing how she wrestled with her choices. I liked that she could still see the possibilities of what could be, even if it differed from her original dream.
🍁 I liked the diverse relationships that were featured. Sibling dynamics, parent/child connections, dysfunctional familial relationships, etc. were highlighted.
🍁 I really liked the romantic elements in the story. This had nothing to do with spice. It had more to do with the heart and emotion. There were a few special snapshot moments that stood out.
🍁 I loved that the leads were so easy to like. They were good people with good hearts. They both cared about Goob. I appreciated that they thoughtfully considered her feelings and mental/emotional health over what might have been easiest for them.
🍁 The slow burn/fiery chemistry angle was sparks and fireworks, to be sure.
🍁 The supportive cast was very colorful and quite memorable, for that matter. Liv's mom, Georgia, Wells & Allison, and Reed & Pearl stood out.
🍁 The HGGC was hilarious. I loved it!
🍁 I loved the cuteness overload via the dancing leaves.
My Favorite Scenes (coded, so as to avoid spoilers):
✨ Speechless
✨ Memories in Purple
✨ The HG Experience
✨ Mama Bear
✨ Talks & Tears
✨ The Gathering
Honorable Mention - > Accidents Happen!
My Final Say: I genuinely liked this story. It was simple and sweet. Conflict and drama were low. Love and laughter were high. It was cozy, with small town domesticity as a featured angle. I believe that is what made it so charming.
*** I cannot wait to read about Wells and Allison. That final scene between them was insane. All I have to say is...yes and please. ***
Other: Readers who enjoy small town settings, close proximity working scenarios, found family connections, and insta-love relationships should like this novel.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Character Chemistry: 💥
Heat Factor/Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tension/Angst: 🫶
HEA: 💕
Series: Yes
Appreciation is extended to the author/publisher and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to a digital ARC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. It was a pleasure to review. I look forward to becoming better acquainted with this series of books.
December 15, 2025
Falling in Love, One Plié at a Time
Dedication: For those who made a home where no one yells
Olivia (FMC): Professional Ballerina • New Ballet Instructor • AB’s Nanny • Kinda Lost and Looking for Direction • Sunshine •
Luca (MMC): Autobody Repair Shop Owner & Mechanic • Single Dad • Tattooed Green Flag • German Shepherd Energy • Grumpy Giver •
Tropes:
🧰 Single Dad MMC x Nanny FMC
🩰 Cozy Fall Small Town
🧰 Love at First Sight
🩰 Adorable Agent of Chaos Sidekick (👧🏻)
🧰 Hurt/Comfort
🩰 Fall Festival
🧰 Crazy Townspeople Shenanigans
🩰 Forced Proximity
🧰 Neighbors
🩰 Whimpering & So.Much.Yearning
🧰 Slow Burn
🩰 Found Family
🧰 BFF Girl Group Chat
🩰 Nicknames
🧰 Text Conversations
🩰 No 3rd Act Breakup
Rating: 🥞🥞🥞🥞.🍧(4.5⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ (praise, dirty talk, 👅, public play, begging, br33ding, 💧play)
T/W: child neglect (referenced), parental abandonment (referenced), car accident (referenced), death of a loved one (referenced), body shaming (on page), alcohol consumption (on page)
Falling at the Barre glides onto the page like a perfectly controlled pirouette—soft, graceful, and unassuming—until the yearning hits and suddenly you’re flat on your back, heart racing, wondering when exactly you fell so hard. It’s cozy small town magic with a ballet-core heartbeat: maple syrup air, apple pie pancake mornings, and a dance studio that feels warm, lived in, and deeply personal rather than performative. Elise Kennedy writes with such gentleness and care that even the heavier emotional moments land like a steady hand at the barre—supportive, grounding, and quietly healing.
What truly elevates this story is how alive the characters feel. Luca Bishop is single dad perfection—quietly strong, acts-of-service coded, and so devoted to his daughter that every choice he makes carries real emotional weight. His internal struggle between responsibility, grief, and the terrifying hope of wanting more is handled with remarkable tenderness, and his growth feels earned and deeply human. Olivia is just as beautifully realized: a ballerina at a crossroads, grieving the slow fade of a dream while still moving through the world with grace, warmth, and hope. Watching her rediscover herself—both at the barre and in a life she never planned—feels intimate, like being trusted with something soft and sacred.
And somehow, without you noticing, Elise makes you fall too. The slow burn never drags; it hums with yearning, stolen glances, cozy routines, and the kind of emotional safety that makes love feel inevitable rather than rushed. You feel the crush build—the hesitation, the quiet moments that mean everything—that giddy, slightly unhinged, can’t-stop-smiling “oh no, I have a crush” feeling? It’s threaded through every page. Add in the low angst comfort, a genuinely lovable found family cast, and AB—the most delightful scene stealer imaginable—and this book becomes more than just a read. The story unfolds with the kind of intimacy that makes you feel less like a reader and more like someone living next door in Fairwick Falls, watching everything bloom in real time.
Fairwick Falls itself feels like Stars Hollow and Bluebell joined forces and decided to outdo everyone with town events, meddling warmth, and pure charm. By the final page, it honestly felt like saying goodbye to people I’d fallen in love with and I was genuinely sad to leave. Also… the Wells and Allison setup? I need their story immediately.
Swoony Line:
“You can’t ask for anything better than someone shining love in all the places you need it.”
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
Dedication: For those who made a home where no one yells
Olivia (FMC): Professional Ballerina • New Ballet Instructor • AB’s Nanny • Kinda Lost and Looking for Direction • Sunshine •
Luca (MMC): Autobody Repair Shop Owner & Mechanic • Single Dad • Tattooed Green Flag • German Shepherd Energy • Grumpy Giver •
Tropes:
🧰 Single Dad MMC x Nanny FMC
🩰 Cozy Fall Small Town
🧰 Love at First Sight
🩰 Adorable Agent of Chaos Sidekick (👧🏻)
🧰 Hurt/Comfort
🩰 Fall Festival
🧰 Crazy Townspeople Shenanigans
🩰 Forced Proximity
🧰 Neighbors
🩰 Whimpering & So.Much.Yearning
🧰 Slow Burn
🩰 Found Family
🧰 BFF Girl Group Chat
🩰 Nicknames
🧰 Text Conversations
🩰 No 3rd Act Breakup
Rating: 🥞🥞🥞🥞.🍧(4.5⭐️)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ (praise, dirty talk, 👅, public play, begging, br33ding, 💧play)
T/W: child neglect (referenced), parental abandonment (referenced), car accident (referenced), death of a loved one (referenced), body shaming (on page), alcohol consumption (on page)
Falling at the Barre glides onto the page like a perfectly controlled pirouette—soft, graceful, and unassuming—until the yearning hits and suddenly you’re flat on your back, heart racing, wondering when exactly you fell so hard. It’s cozy small town magic with a ballet-core heartbeat: maple syrup air, apple pie pancake mornings, and a dance studio that feels warm, lived in, and deeply personal rather than performative. Elise Kennedy writes with such gentleness and care that even the heavier emotional moments land like a steady hand at the barre—supportive, grounding, and quietly healing.
What truly elevates this story is how alive the characters feel. Luca Bishop is single dad perfection—quietly strong, acts-of-service coded, and so devoted to his daughter that every choice he makes carries real emotional weight. His internal struggle between responsibility, grief, and the terrifying hope of wanting more is handled with remarkable tenderness, and his growth feels earned and deeply human. Olivia is just as beautifully realized: a ballerina at a crossroads, grieving the slow fade of a dream while still moving through the world with grace, warmth, and hope. Watching her rediscover herself—both at the barre and in a life she never planned—feels intimate, like being trusted with something soft and sacred.
And somehow, without you noticing, Elise makes you fall too. The slow burn never drags; it hums with yearning, stolen glances, cozy routines, and the kind of emotional safety that makes love feel inevitable rather than rushed. You feel the crush build—the hesitation, the quiet moments that mean everything—that giddy, slightly unhinged, can’t-stop-smiling “oh no, I have a crush” feeling? It’s threaded through every page. Add in the low angst comfort, a genuinely lovable found family cast, and AB—the most delightful scene stealer imaginable—and this book becomes more than just a read. The story unfolds with the kind of intimacy that makes you feel less like a reader and more like someone living next door in Fairwick Falls, watching everything bloom in real time.
Fairwick Falls itself feels like Stars Hollow and Bluebell joined forces and decided to outdo everyone with town events, meddling warmth, and pure charm. By the final page, it honestly felt like saying goodbye to people I’d fallen in love with and I was genuinely sad to leave. Also… the Wells and Allison setup? I need their story immediately.
Swoony Line:
“You can’t ask for anything better than someone shining love in all the places you need it.”
I received an ARC copy and wanted to leave an honest review.
December 11, 2025
📜Quick Summary: Olivia worked her whole life to become a ballerina. And after a long career doing just so, she finds herself jobless and back home in Fairwick Falls. She knows she’s “aging” out of her career, but that doesn’t take away the sting. While she’s home, she makes a deal with her old dance instructor to teach a class of first graders ballet, in exchange to house sit. But the problem…is that Luca Bishop is next door and although handsome, he seems to scrunch his face every time he sees her. What she doesn’t know is that Luca is a single dad, whose wife passed away five years ago and he’s raising their daughter by himself. On top of that, he’s trying to run a business and swear off dating, so he’s not the friendliest man in town. When she accidentally volunteers to be his nanny…she wonders how much could go wrong?
❣️Initial Feels: Oh my goshhhhh, this yearning is not helping me get to my other duties. I am so excited to be back in Fairwick Falls, and am just eating up Olivia and Luca right now!
👀Trigger Warnings: loss of spouse
🌶️Spice Level: a slow burn that turns into a 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️hot one!!!
📖Read if you want: slow burn, single dad love story, small town feels, finding yourself
🙋🏼♀️Moving Character: This story will touch people in different ways, and make you question how to truly find your happiness. For Luca, I loved that he fell fast and hard, and also respected the boundaries for his daughter. He knew what came first, and whose heart he had to protect. The strength and the compassion he has for others, while trying to juggle it all, also stood out. But when he started to ask for help, that’s when his character started to grow. And Olivia, she lost the career of her dreams. And it took stepping away to truly find what makes her happy. Not everyone in life gets that chance, and to see her embrace it and fully give in, was heart warming.
🗨️Touching Words: “Wherever you lose time, that’s what you’re meant to do.”
💡Final Sentiments: I loved returning home to these characters in Fairwick Falls!! I could have binge read their story in a day, but I really didn’t want to say goodbye to these characters again! If you haven’t stepped in Fairwick Falls yet, this is your sign to cozy up this winter with a great series filled with fall vibes, small town feels, a great cast of characters that feel like your friends, and slow burn romances! And the romances get SPICY once they get moving!! You can feel the yearning in the pages. As an arc reader and fellow Fairwick Falls fan, I love seeing the progression and growth in Elise as a writer, and truly can’t wait to hear about Wells’s story next! A great read for the winter ahead!
🌟Overall Rating: 5 stars
🔉Special thanks to Elise Kennedy for this arc of Falling at the Barre!
📘Grab yourself a copy on December 11, 2025!
❣️Initial Feels: Oh my goshhhhh, this yearning is not helping me get to my other duties. I am so excited to be back in Fairwick Falls, and am just eating up Olivia and Luca right now!
👀Trigger Warnings: loss of spouse
🌶️Spice Level: a slow burn that turns into a 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️hot one!!!
📖Read if you want: slow burn, single dad love story, small town feels, finding yourself
🙋🏼♀️Moving Character: This story will touch people in different ways, and make you question how to truly find your happiness. For Luca, I loved that he fell fast and hard, and also respected the boundaries for his daughter. He knew what came first, and whose heart he had to protect. The strength and the compassion he has for others, while trying to juggle it all, also stood out. But when he started to ask for help, that’s when his character started to grow. And Olivia, she lost the career of her dreams. And it took stepping away to truly find what makes her happy. Not everyone in life gets that chance, and to see her embrace it and fully give in, was heart warming.
🗨️Touching Words: “Wherever you lose time, that’s what you’re meant to do.”
💡Final Sentiments: I loved returning home to these characters in Fairwick Falls!! I could have binge read their story in a day, but I really didn’t want to say goodbye to these characters again! If you haven’t stepped in Fairwick Falls yet, this is your sign to cozy up this winter with a great series filled with fall vibes, small town feels, a great cast of characters that feel like your friends, and slow burn romances! And the romances get SPICY once they get moving!! You can feel the yearning in the pages. As an arc reader and fellow Fairwick Falls fan, I love seeing the progression and growth in Elise as a writer, and truly can’t wait to hear about Wells’s story next! A great read for the winter ahead!
🌟Overall Rating: 5 stars
🔉Special thanks to Elise Kennedy for this arc of Falling at the Barre!
📘Grab yourself a copy on December 11, 2025!
December 12, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Falling at the Barre by Elise Kennedy absolutely owns my heart.
This book was sexy, tender, emotional, and so ridiculously swoony that I genuinely don’t think I’ll ever look at a dance studio—or a ballet barre—the same way again. 🥵😩💕
If you love:
👨👧 Single dad romances
💗 He-falls-first (and HARD)
🩰 Nanny x guardian tension
🌶️ Slow-burn → scorching heat
🌲 Small-town coziness
…then you NEED Luca and Olivia in your life.
From the moment Olivia returns home—career in limbo, heart bruised, pride dented—her world collides with Luca Bishop, the grumpy, tattooed, broad-shouldered, blue-collar single dad next door who looks at her like she hung the moon. He’s trying to raise his sweet daughter alone while running a business, grieving a past love, and convincing himself he has no room for romance. Except… every time he sees Olivia? His entire façade cracks.
And that’s my kryptonite:
men who are absolutely infatuated with the FMC and treat her like she’s it.
Luca worships Olivia—emotionally, physically, quietly, intensely. The man is acts-of-service coded with a sinful mouth and zero fear of getting his hands dirty… in every way. 🫣🔥
Olivia’s arc was just as beautiful. She’s graceful, warm, and stumbling her way through a life transition with so much vulnerability. Watching her rediscover joy, find community, bond with Annabelle, and piece together a new version of herself was genuinely heartwarming.
And the BEST part?
No breakup. No third-act drama. Just two people finding their way to each other with honesty, longing, and respect.
The emotional beats hit just as hard as the spice, and the spice?
Let’s just say… I will never look at a ballet barre the same again. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Elise Kennedy continues to prove she’s a romance powerhouse. Her writing is warm, intimate, funny, and full of heart. Fairwick Falls feels like home, and every character feels like someone you’d actually know.
I laughed, I swooned, I kicked my feet, and yes—I devoured it in one sitting because I physically could NOT put it down.
Luca, Olivia, and little AB were pure magic.
And the Wells + Allison setup at the end? I am feral. I need their book yesterday.
A perfect cozy-spicy winter read. A full-body swoon. An instant favorite.
Huge thanks to Elise Kennedy for the ARC — I adored every second. 💖📚
This book was sexy, tender, emotional, and so ridiculously swoony that I genuinely don’t think I’ll ever look at a dance studio—or a ballet barre—the same way again. 🥵😩💕
If you love:
👨👧 Single dad romances
💗 He-falls-first (and HARD)
🩰 Nanny x guardian tension
🌶️ Slow-burn → scorching heat
🌲 Small-town coziness
…then you NEED Luca and Olivia in your life.
From the moment Olivia returns home—career in limbo, heart bruised, pride dented—her world collides with Luca Bishop, the grumpy, tattooed, broad-shouldered, blue-collar single dad next door who looks at her like she hung the moon. He’s trying to raise his sweet daughter alone while running a business, grieving a past love, and convincing himself he has no room for romance. Except… every time he sees Olivia? His entire façade cracks.
And that’s my kryptonite:
men who are absolutely infatuated with the FMC and treat her like she’s it.
Luca worships Olivia—emotionally, physically, quietly, intensely. The man is acts-of-service coded with a sinful mouth and zero fear of getting his hands dirty… in every way. 🫣🔥
Olivia’s arc was just as beautiful. She’s graceful, warm, and stumbling her way through a life transition with so much vulnerability. Watching her rediscover joy, find community, bond with Annabelle, and piece together a new version of herself was genuinely heartwarming.
And the BEST part?
No breakup. No third-act drama. Just two people finding their way to each other with honesty, longing, and respect.
The emotional beats hit just as hard as the spice, and the spice?
Let’s just say… I will never look at a ballet barre the same again. 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Elise Kennedy continues to prove she’s a romance powerhouse. Her writing is warm, intimate, funny, and full of heart. Fairwick Falls feels like home, and every character feels like someone you’d actually know.
I laughed, I swooned, I kicked my feet, and yes—I devoured it in one sitting because I physically could NOT put it down.
Luca, Olivia, and little AB were pure magic.
And the Wells + Allison setup at the end? I am feral. I need their book yesterday.
A perfect cozy-spicy winter read. A full-body swoon. An instant favorite.
Huge thanks to Elise Kennedy for the ARC — I adored every second. 💖📚
December 2, 2025
❤️ Blurb -
Luca Bishop has one no dating until his first-grader graduates high school. Period.
Between running a growing auto body shop and solo-parenting, romance isn’t just off the table—it’s somewhere in the garage under a tarp. And with his schedule, it's time to hire a nanny.
Enter his daughter's gorgeous new dance teacher, who's also their next-door-neighbor. The one who smells like cinnamon.
Who makes his kid beam and who laughs like sunshine.
And who already feels like his—if only she weren’t leaving.
Ballet didn’t dump Olivia Maroo—it just stopped calling.
At 33, Olivia knows pliés won't pay the bills forever, but she’s not ready to hang up her pointe shoes just yet.
She just needs a few months to train for auditions, regroup, and totally not fall apart. So she returns to her hometown for the fall—where the maple syrup flows, the apple pie pancake breakfasts are elite, and the existential dread is pumpkin spice–flavored.
In exchange for ballet studio space, she agrees to teach at the local dance studio. It’s temporary. Chill. Fine.
...Until she accidentally volunteers to nanny for her most adorably chaotic student—who just so happens to live next door with her extremely hot, extremely off-limits single dad.
It has to be temporary.
But with cozy movie nights, cider-fueled slow dances, and a life she’s already half in love with, she’s not prepared for the kind of fall that changes everything.
💜 Review -
I have enjoyed the other books in the series and Falling At The Barre certainly didn't disappoint. This was such a cute and cosy, easy to follow read. I was hooked from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I loved Luca and Olivia's steamy chemistry and I wanted them to have their happy ending. Plus the small town place setting in the story sounded cute. Overall a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💖 Release date - 11th December.
💝 Thank you to the author Elise Kennedy for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Luca Bishop has one no dating until his first-grader graduates high school. Period.
Between running a growing auto body shop and solo-parenting, romance isn’t just off the table—it’s somewhere in the garage under a tarp. And with his schedule, it's time to hire a nanny.
Enter his daughter's gorgeous new dance teacher, who's also their next-door-neighbor. The one who smells like cinnamon.
Who makes his kid beam and who laughs like sunshine.
And who already feels like his—if only she weren’t leaving.
Ballet didn’t dump Olivia Maroo—it just stopped calling.
At 33, Olivia knows pliés won't pay the bills forever, but she’s not ready to hang up her pointe shoes just yet.
She just needs a few months to train for auditions, regroup, and totally not fall apart. So she returns to her hometown for the fall—where the maple syrup flows, the apple pie pancake breakfasts are elite, and the existential dread is pumpkin spice–flavored.
In exchange for ballet studio space, she agrees to teach at the local dance studio. It’s temporary. Chill. Fine.
...Until she accidentally volunteers to nanny for her most adorably chaotic student—who just so happens to live next door with her extremely hot, extremely off-limits single dad.
It has to be temporary.
But with cozy movie nights, cider-fueled slow dances, and a life she’s already half in love with, she’s not prepared for the kind of fall that changes everything.
💜 Review -
I have enjoyed the other books in the series and Falling At The Barre certainly didn't disappoint. This was such a cute and cosy, easy to follow read. I was hooked from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I loved Luca and Olivia's steamy chemistry and I wanted them to have their happy ending. Plus the small town place setting in the story sounded cute. Overall a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💖 Release date - 11th December.
💝 Thank you to the author Elise Kennedy for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2025
There’s no place like home…
********************
Tropes: Neighbors to Lovers, Grump vs. Sunshine, Love at First Sight, Cozy Small Town Vibes
********************
Content Warnings: Off Page: Child neglect, parent abandonment, fatal car accident
On Page: Body shaming (brief), alcohol use, cursing, grinding, oral and penetrative sex, rough sex, begging, pregnancy/ wanting kids mentioned (no pregnancy on page)
********************
Quote: “That some places and people just stick with you? That some things just feel right, even though they make no sense?”
********************
Synopsis: Luca is a business owner, widowed single Dad, with one big rule: no dating. Taking care of his daughter Annabelle and running his own auto body shop is overwhelming him. Olivia is a ballerina without a dance company, so she returns to her hometown of Fairwick Falls to take a break and wait for the new ballet season to come so she can audition and get back to being the perfect background dancer. Olivia and Luca fall hopelessly for each other at first sight in Bookish, and circumstances (and possibly some meddling townsfolk) keep throwing them together. Until they can no longer stay away from each other. Together, they dance a perfect pas de deux and their HEA.
********************
Review: I want to move to Fairwick Falls. All the great parts of small town life, with none of the dark aspects that come with the reality of small town life. That’s why it’s fictional.
The story of Luca and Olivia is the best of the series so far. Told via a dual first person POV, the two dance around each other following their adorable meet cute. We’re treated to appearances from other town favorites as we witness our happy couple pine for each other and try to figure out their lives. It’s a good mix of characters and plot. The spice is perfection.
Unless you demand your love stories be dark, I strongly recommend this title.
********************
Ratings: Movie Rating R, Overall 5/5, Romance 4/5, Violence 0/5, Spice 3/5, Cover Image 5/5
********************
Publish Date December 11, 2025
********************
Tropes: Neighbors to Lovers, Grump vs. Sunshine, Love at First Sight, Cozy Small Town Vibes
********************
Content Warnings: Off Page: Child neglect, parent abandonment, fatal car accident
On Page: Body shaming (brief), alcohol use, cursing, grinding, oral and penetrative sex, rough sex, begging, pregnancy/ wanting kids mentioned (no pregnancy on page)
********************
Quote: “That some places and people just stick with you? That some things just feel right, even though they make no sense?”
********************
Synopsis: Luca is a business owner, widowed single Dad, with one big rule: no dating. Taking care of his daughter Annabelle and running his own auto body shop is overwhelming him. Olivia is a ballerina without a dance company, so she returns to her hometown of Fairwick Falls to take a break and wait for the new ballet season to come so she can audition and get back to being the perfect background dancer. Olivia and Luca fall hopelessly for each other at first sight in Bookish, and circumstances (and possibly some meddling townsfolk) keep throwing them together. Until they can no longer stay away from each other. Together, they dance a perfect pas de deux and their HEA.
********************
Review: I want to move to Fairwick Falls. All the great parts of small town life, with none of the dark aspects that come with the reality of small town life. That’s why it’s fictional.
The story of Luca and Olivia is the best of the series so far. Told via a dual first person POV, the two dance around each other following their adorable meet cute. We’re treated to appearances from other town favorites as we witness our happy couple pine for each other and try to figure out their lives. It’s a good mix of characters and plot. The spice is perfection.
Unless you demand your love stories be dark, I strongly recommend this title.
********************
Ratings: Movie Rating R, Overall 5/5, Romance 4/5, Violence 0/5, Spice 3/5, Cover Image 5/5
********************
Publish Date December 11, 2025
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling at the Barre swept me off my feet in the best way. Elise Kennedy always delivers a romance that’s equal parts tender, passionate, and heart‑warming.
Luca is a devoted single dad to his six year old daughter Annabelle, or AB for short, who completely stole my heart. His quiet strength, his vulnerability, and the way he takes care of everyone else before himself made him such a compelling MMC. Plus, he’s tall and tatted and lives for acts of service (with a filthy mouth too, swoon). Watching him navigate the push‑and‑pull of responsibility of running a business and taking care of AB, while fighting his attraction to Liv felt so real. The temptation of Olivia being his nanny and becoming an important part of not only AB’s but his life too was so emotional to read. From the moment he laid eyes on Olivia he knew she was the one, but he was terrified of what that meant.
Olivia brings light and challenge into Luca’s world. She’s graceful yet grounded, and her journey at the barre mirrors her emotional growth. She’s only in town for a short time, but feels so drawn to Luca and AB. Her dreams may be changing the more time she spends with them. While she feels like both her and her life are a mess, Luca is extremely supportive and caring. The chemistry between her and Luca is undeniable, but what really resonated with me was the way their relationship blossomed around trust, second chances, and the courage to fall and rise again.
What I loved most was how Kennedy balances the physicality of ballet with the emotional heartbeat of the story. It’s not just about dance; it’s about resilience, friendship, and finding your rhythm when life throws you off balance.
This book is a gentle reminder that sometimes the most meaningful leaps happen after we stumble. If you’ve ever chased a dream, doubted yourself, or needed a little push to keep going, Falling at the Barre makes you feel like anything is possible with those you love by your side.
A huge, HUGE thank you to Elise Kennedy for the early copy! I love my time spent in Fairwick Falls!
Luca is a devoted single dad to his six year old daughter Annabelle, or AB for short, who completely stole my heart. His quiet strength, his vulnerability, and the way he takes care of everyone else before himself made him such a compelling MMC. Plus, he’s tall and tatted and lives for acts of service (with a filthy mouth too, swoon). Watching him navigate the push‑and‑pull of responsibility of running a business and taking care of AB, while fighting his attraction to Liv felt so real. The temptation of Olivia being his nanny and becoming an important part of not only AB’s but his life too was so emotional to read. From the moment he laid eyes on Olivia he knew she was the one, but he was terrified of what that meant.
Olivia brings light and challenge into Luca’s world. She’s graceful yet grounded, and her journey at the barre mirrors her emotional growth. She’s only in town for a short time, but feels so drawn to Luca and AB. Her dreams may be changing the more time she spends with them. While she feels like both her and her life are a mess, Luca is extremely supportive and caring. The chemistry between her and Luca is undeniable, but what really resonated with me was the way their relationship blossomed around trust, second chances, and the courage to fall and rise again.
What I loved most was how Kennedy balances the physicality of ballet with the emotional heartbeat of the story. It’s not just about dance; it’s about resilience, friendship, and finding your rhythm when life throws you off balance.
This book is a gentle reminder that sometimes the most meaningful leaps happen after we stumble. If you’ve ever chased a dream, doubted yourself, or needed a little push to keep going, Falling at the Barre makes you feel like anything is possible with those you love by your side.
A huge, HUGE thank you to Elise Kennedy for the early copy! I love my time spent in Fairwick Falls!
December 17, 2025
𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁:
Elise’s books always hit, they are that small town cozy romance with a hint of spice that I crave. This was so full of my favorite tropes and their romance was cute and I loved the romance included his daughter. I loved the supportive community of Fairwick Falls and getting to see other characters I love from previous books is always fun. If you love a swoony single dad this one’s for you he’s tough on the outside and cinnamon roll gooey on the inside.
𝐒𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐬:
Olivia is 33 and her contract with her Ballet company did not get renewed, so now she’s heading home to Fairwick Falls to prep for auditions in the new year. She should have expected her mom and fellow townsfolk would meddle. Thats how she finds herself roped into teaching ballet classes, choreographing the fall recital and “house sitting”.
Luca is a single dad and it’s kicking his butt. As his daughter has a severe wheat allergy he made the decision to move her to a school that would take that seriously. The only problem is his auto-shop is now an hour away and the commute is killing him. Then a gorgeous ballerina moves next door and into his heart.
Olivia instantly accepts the job of watching Luca’s little girl now the problem is she has the hots for her boss. Her time in town is short and she couldn’t ever start something with a single dad as too many hearts are stake. But the more time she spends next door the harder it is to resist this dynamic father daughter duo.
𝙁𝙖𝙫 𝙌𝙪𝙤𝙩𝙚:
“As soon as I saw you, I knew you were mine. Like I know these veins are mine. I have no idea how they came to be or why I deserve them, but I know I’d die without them. Without you.”
𝑳𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒓𝒚 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒍𝒍 𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒅:
* Single Dad & Auto-shop Owner
* Ballet Dancer
* Unicorn Loving First Grader
* She’s His New Neighbor & Nanny
* He Falls First & Hard
* So Much Pinning
* Family, Friends & Community
* Fairwick Falls, PA
* Dual POV w/ Spice
💕⭐️🔧🛻🩰🦄💕⭐️🔧🛻🩰🦄💕
https://www.instagram.com/p/DSVug7eEt...
Elise’s books always hit, they are that small town cozy romance with a hint of spice that I crave. This was so full of my favorite tropes and their romance was cute and I loved the romance included his daughter. I loved the supportive community of Fairwick Falls and getting to see other characters I love from previous books is always fun. If you love a swoony single dad this one’s for you he’s tough on the outside and cinnamon roll gooey on the inside.
𝐒𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐬:
Olivia is 33 and her contract with her Ballet company did not get renewed, so now she’s heading home to Fairwick Falls to prep for auditions in the new year. She should have expected her mom and fellow townsfolk would meddle. Thats how she finds herself roped into teaching ballet classes, choreographing the fall recital and “house sitting”.
Luca is a single dad and it’s kicking his butt. As his daughter has a severe wheat allergy he made the decision to move her to a school that would take that seriously. The only problem is his auto-shop is now an hour away and the commute is killing him. Then a gorgeous ballerina moves next door and into his heart.
Olivia instantly accepts the job of watching Luca’s little girl now the problem is she has the hots for her boss. Her time in town is short and she couldn’t ever start something with a single dad as too many hearts are stake. But the more time she spends next door the harder it is to resist this dynamic father daughter duo.
𝙁𝙖𝙫 𝙌𝙪𝙤𝙩𝙚:
“As soon as I saw you, I knew you were mine. Like I know these veins are mine. I have no idea how they came to be or why I deserve them, but I know I’d die without them. Without you.”
𝑳𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒓𝒚 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒍𝒍 𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒅:
* Single Dad & Auto-shop Owner
* Ballet Dancer
* Unicorn Loving First Grader
* She’s His New Neighbor & Nanny
* He Falls First & Hard
* So Much Pinning
* Family, Friends & Community
* Fairwick Falls, PA
* Dual POV w/ Spice
💕⭐️🔧🛻🩰🦄💕⭐️🔧🛻🩰🦄💕
https://www.instagram.com/p/DSVug7eEt...
January 25, 2026
This was my first time reading something by this author and it won't be my last! This book felt like a cozy fall evening wrapped in flannel, with just plenty of spice to keep things interesting. The single dad romance is what pulled me in and I stayed for all the feelings.
Luca Bishop is tired, devoted, and doing his absolute best, which instantly makes him impossible not to love. His whole “no dating until my kid graduates” rule is both funny and painfully on brand, and watching him fall first—hard—was incredibly satisfying. He’s soft where it counts, especially with his daughter, and those moments added so much heart to the story.
I really loved Olivia's character. Her struggle with ballet, identity, and feeling left behind hit in a quiet, realistic way. She’s not dramatic about it, but you can feel how much she’s holding together. Her connection with Luca’s daughter, and her recognizing Annabelle's dyslexia because of her own experiences, was genuinely sweet, and it made the slow build between her and Luca feel natural instead of rushed.
The small-town fall setting was perfect. Cider, cozy movie nights, slow dances, and that almost-painful mutual pining made the romance feel warm and lived-in. I also really appreciated the lack of a third act breakup. The story let the characters grow and choose each other without unnecessary drama, which made the ending feel earned and comforting.
The spice is definitely there and well-balanced with the emotional buildup. It never feels out of place, just like a natural extension of the tension that’s been simmering the whole time.
I finished this book smiling, a little emotional, and fully convinced that fall romances are undefeated. If you want something cozy, heartfelt, and swoony with a guaranteed happy ending, this one absolutely delivers.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Luca Bishop is tired, devoted, and doing his absolute best, which instantly makes him impossible not to love. His whole “no dating until my kid graduates” rule is both funny and painfully on brand, and watching him fall first—hard—was incredibly satisfying. He’s soft where it counts, especially with his daughter, and those moments added so much heart to the story.
I really loved Olivia's character. Her struggle with ballet, identity, and feeling left behind hit in a quiet, realistic way. She’s not dramatic about it, but you can feel how much she’s holding together. Her connection with Luca’s daughter, and her recognizing Annabelle's dyslexia because of her own experiences, was genuinely sweet, and it made the slow build between her and Luca feel natural instead of rushed.
The small-town fall setting was perfect. Cider, cozy movie nights, slow dances, and that almost-painful mutual pining made the romance feel warm and lived-in. I also really appreciated the lack of a third act breakup. The story let the characters grow and choose each other without unnecessary drama, which made the ending feel earned and comforting.
The spice is definitely there and well-balanced with the emotional buildup. It never feels out of place, just like a natural extension of the tension that’s been simmering the whole time.
I finished this book smiling, a little emotional, and fully convinced that fall romances are undefeated. If you want something cozy, heartfelt, and swoony with a guaranteed happy ending, this one absolutely delivers.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
December 10, 2025
Summary
Olivia can feel her dreams as a ballet star quickly vanishing, so she comes back to her hometown of Fairwick Falls for a bit of a reset during the off-season. She agrees to help out at the local ballet studio, teaching a class of 6-year-old, which includes the spunky and adorable Annabelle. Annabelle's dad, Luca, is stretched thin between being a single dad and managing his auto shop, so when he learns that Olivia will be around and has time to help, he enlists her as Annabelle's nanny. Though he promises himself he will not date until Annabelle is older, he can't help fighting the pull he feels towards Olivia, which is problematic, since she's only planning on sticking around for a few months.
Why did I pick up this book?
I have read and loved all of Elise Kennedy's stories, so I was elated when asked to read another one of her books in advance of its release!
What did I enjoy about it?
Right off the bat, I have to mention that this was the best single dad/nanny story I have ever read. Often with this trope, they cross the line of their attraction way too quickly, but I felt the pacing of this budding relationship was perfect and felt organic. As a former dance student, I loved the ballet elements, and also felt AB was appropriately aged. I also liked she had a little bossy streak, which I can relate to as well. Last, I enjoyed how much Olivia and Luca took care of each other, since this was something they both lacked and needed.
What did I not enjoy about it?
Sadly, I am not a huge fan of the insta-love trope that we also saw in this book - I felt they each developed very strong feelings individually (and secretly) very quickly, so there wasn't much build up in that area. For my taste, it was a bit too gushy/emphatic.
Olivia can feel her dreams as a ballet star quickly vanishing, so she comes back to her hometown of Fairwick Falls for a bit of a reset during the off-season. She agrees to help out at the local ballet studio, teaching a class of 6-year-old, which includes the spunky and adorable Annabelle. Annabelle's dad, Luca, is stretched thin between being a single dad and managing his auto shop, so when he learns that Olivia will be around and has time to help, he enlists her as Annabelle's nanny. Though he promises himself he will not date until Annabelle is older, he can't help fighting the pull he feels towards Olivia, which is problematic, since she's only planning on sticking around for a few months.
Why did I pick up this book?
I have read and loved all of Elise Kennedy's stories, so I was elated when asked to read another one of her books in advance of its release!
What did I enjoy about it?
Right off the bat, I have to mention that this was the best single dad/nanny story I have ever read. Often with this trope, they cross the line of their attraction way too quickly, but I felt the pacing of this budding relationship was perfect and felt organic. As a former dance student, I loved the ballet elements, and also felt AB was appropriately aged. I also liked she had a little bossy streak, which I can relate to as well. Last, I enjoyed how much Olivia and Luca took care of each other, since this was something they both lacked and needed.
What did I not enjoy about it?
Sadly, I am not a huge fan of the insta-love trope that we also saw in this book - I felt they each developed very strong feelings individually (and secretly) very quickly, so there wasn't much build up in that area. For my taste, it was a bit too gushy/emphatic.
December 2, 2025
*ARC gifted in exchange for review*
First and foremost, this is a series of interconnected stand-alones which I love because it meant that I could jump into this book, having not read the others, and I wasn’t lost or confused in anyway. Secondly, 15 stars no notes because what do you mean he saw her at the Christmas party and wanted to know her immediately, saw her at the bookstore months later dancing and immediately thought “yup, I’m going to marry her”. MY DREAM! I love a single dad romance and Luca might be the sweetest slightly grumpy Daddy of them all. He might very well be one of my favorite men of this quarter with his teddy bear heart, big muscles, tattoos and beard, and the way he melts for his girls?? Santa…if you can hear me, I’ll take one just like that who’s obsessed with me please and thanks. Despite how cold and cruel the world of professional dancing can be, Olivia somehow managed to still be so kind to everyone around her. I wanted so badly for her to extend some of that kindness to herself. The way she and AB took to each other immediately? Yup the three of them were meant to be and I can’t be convinced otherwise. I was rooting for these guys from the time they saw each other in the bookstore and I’m not too proud of admit the number of time this book made me cry and swoon. The spice was top tier, with a 3.5 chili pepper rating. The community Olivia found after spending so much time feeling so alone? 15/10. There were so many aspects I loved about this story and I encourage you all to give it a chance because you can’t help but fall in love with Luca, Olivia and AB, as they find their way to each other, and back to themselves in the process.
First and foremost, this is a series of interconnected stand-alones which I love because it meant that I could jump into this book, having not read the others, and I wasn’t lost or confused in anyway. Secondly, 15 stars no notes because what do you mean he saw her at the Christmas party and wanted to know her immediately, saw her at the bookstore months later dancing and immediately thought “yup, I’m going to marry her”. MY DREAM! I love a single dad romance and Luca might be the sweetest slightly grumpy Daddy of them all. He might very well be one of my favorite men of this quarter with his teddy bear heart, big muscles, tattoos and beard, and the way he melts for his girls?? Santa…if you can hear me, I’ll take one just like that who’s obsessed with me please and thanks. Despite how cold and cruel the world of professional dancing can be, Olivia somehow managed to still be so kind to everyone around her. I wanted so badly for her to extend some of that kindness to herself. The way she and AB took to each other immediately? Yup the three of them were meant to be and I can’t be convinced otherwise. I was rooting for these guys from the time they saw each other in the bookstore and I’m not too proud of admit the number of time this book made me cry and swoon. The spice was top tier, with a 3.5 chili pepper rating. The community Olivia found after spending so much time feeling so alone? 15/10. There were so many aspects I loved about this story and I encourage you all to give it a chance because you can’t help but fall in love with Luca, Olivia and AB, as they find their way to each other, and back to themselves in the process.
December 10, 2025
Ahhh I loved it. Elise Kennedy is an instant buy author for me and I had already preordered the book when I was chosen to review an ARC (thank you!!). Opinions are my own!
This is a cozy, low angst, feel good romance in the Fairwick Falls series. And it’s spiccyyyyy so be warned 🥵 he falls first and hardddd and it’s *chef’s kiss*
I cannot express how much I love Elise’s books, they’re just lovely. The characters all have depth and are interesting enough that I actually remember who each one is! I’ve read some of her books 3 or 4 times, I adore them that much.
The love scenes are hot and they don’t feel rushed or forced or like the book was written to just be smut. I love a smutty book, but this is so much more than that.
Complex characters, a plot and world that makes sense and feels realistic, and I am just rooting for everyone from the get-go. Actual romance. No morally grey assholes here. Straight up hot af teddy bear dad of the year meets cute as a button heart of gold ballerina and they absolutely deserve each other and their happy ending.
I normally don’t like the single parent trope bc of the tendency for authors to lean into the drama of the absent or dead partner/spouse/parent to be the angst or character development. But there was no jealousy or disrespect there at all, and it felt healthy when they discussed it.
I stayed up way too late wanting to devour the whole thing in one sitting, but sadly had to sleep and finish the next day. I’m just so happy they both found their person, ya know?
And god, the build up for Wells and Allison?! Gimme a break, I need the next book now!!
This is a cozy, low angst, feel good romance in the Fairwick Falls series. And it’s spiccyyyyy so be warned 🥵 he falls first and hardddd and it’s *chef’s kiss*
I cannot express how much I love Elise’s books, they’re just lovely. The characters all have depth and are interesting enough that I actually remember who each one is! I’ve read some of her books 3 or 4 times, I adore them that much.
The love scenes are hot and they don’t feel rushed or forced or like the book was written to just be smut. I love a smutty book, but this is so much more than that.
Complex characters, a plot and world that makes sense and feels realistic, and I am just rooting for everyone from the get-go. Actual romance. No morally grey assholes here. Straight up hot af teddy bear dad of the year meets cute as a button heart of gold ballerina and they absolutely deserve each other and their happy ending.
I normally don’t like the single parent trope bc of the tendency for authors to lean into the drama of the absent or dead partner/spouse/parent to be the angst or character development. But there was no jealousy or disrespect there at all, and it felt healthy when they discussed it.
I stayed up way too late wanting to devour the whole thing in one sitting, but sadly had to sleep and finish the next day. I’m just so happy they both found their person, ya know?
And god, the build up for Wells and Allison?! Gimme a break, I need the next book now!!
January 14, 2026
A soothing, heartfelt blend of angst, longing, and small‑town warmth.
Olivia returns home to Fairwick Falls after being dismissed from a ballet corps, unsure of her future and in need of the kind of love only family and community can offer. Kennedy captures that emotional disorientation beautifully — the ache of a dream interrupted, the comfort of familiar places, and the quiet courage it takes to rebuild.
Luca, a single dad still carrying the weight of grief, is one of Kennedy’s most grounded heroes. His tattoos feel like a living archive of memory and devotion, and his relationship with his daughter, AB, is tender, joyful, and deeply human. AB herself is a delight — all openness and wonder — even as she navigates the realities of a wheat allergy that shapes their daily life.
What I love most about this series is how real it feels. Fairwick Falls isn’t a sunshine‑and‑rainbows fantasy; it’s a community with depth, humor, and emotional stakes. Kennedy balances laugh‑out‑loud moments with scenes that make you glance toward the tissue box, and she does it without ever losing sight of hope. Every chapter carries a zest for life, a commitment to joy, and a belief in the healing power of connection.
With the world feeling heavy lately, this story was a welcome breath — a reminder that found family, second chances, and small‑town magic still matter. I’ve loved every book in this series for different reasons, and this installment is no exception. If you’re new to Fairwick Falls, you’ll want to go back for the others. If you’re already a fan, you’re in for a treat.
Olivia returns home to Fairwick Falls after being dismissed from a ballet corps, unsure of her future and in need of the kind of love only family and community can offer. Kennedy captures that emotional disorientation beautifully — the ache of a dream interrupted, the comfort of familiar places, and the quiet courage it takes to rebuild.
Luca, a single dad still carrying the weight of grief, is one of Kennedy’s most grounded heroes. His tattoos feel like a living archive of memory and devotion, and his relationship with his daughter, AB, is tender, joyful, and deeply human. AB herself is a delight — all openness and wonder — even as she navigates the realities of a wheat allergy that shapes their daily life.
What I love most about this series is how real it feels. Fairwick Falls isn’t a sunshine‑and‑rainbows fantasy; it’s a community with depth, humor, and emotional stakes. Kennedy balances laugh‑out‑loud moments with scenes that make you glance toward the tissue box, and she does it without ever losing sight of hope. Every chapter carries a zest for life, a commitment to joy, and a belief in the healing power of connection.
With the world feeling heavy lately, this story was a welcome breath — a reminder that found family, second chances, and small‑town magic still matter. I’ve loved every book in this series for different reasons, and this installment is no exception. If you’re new to Fairwick Falls, you’ll want to go back for the others. If you’re already a fan, you’re in for a treat.
December 11, 2025
Thank you so much Elise Kennedy for the eARC of Falling at the Barre. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If you’re looking for a spicy small town romance stop what you’re doing right now and grab yourself a copy of Falling at the Barre! I seriously could not put this book down. Between the hot single dad, the super sweet professional ballerina, and the small town with the biggest heart, I just couldn’t get enough!
The tension between former-bad-boy-turned-girl-dad, Luca, and the down on her luck professional ballerina, Olivia, is just so perfect. Although there is an instant attraction between the two, their relationship takes more time to develop, which I appreciated. The slow burn really made the story so much more satisfying.
Finally, A note for those of you who are worried about jumping in at book 5 of the Love in Fairwick Falls series: Don’t be! Although former MCs make an appearance, you don’t need their backstories in order to get what’s happening in Luca and Olivia’s book. I’m willing to bet, though, that after finishing Falling at the Barre, you’re going to want to read the rest of the series ASAP!
In the pages, you will find:
🖤A tough, but soft-hearted, single dad MMC
🩰A struggling professional ballerina FMC
🏘️An quaint small town with lovable characters
🔥A slow burn romance filled with yearning
🎆Sizzling tension
🌶️Spice
❤️”If it’s not you, it’s not anyone” vibes
📙A book you won’t be able to put down!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
If you’re looking for a spicy small town romance stop what you’re doing right now and grab yourself a copy of Falling at the Barre! I seriously could not put this book down. Between the hot single dad, the super sweet professional ballerina, and the small town with the biggest heart, I just couldn’t get enough!
The tension between former-bad-boy-turned-girl-dad, Luca, and the down on her luck professional ballerina, Olivia, is just so perfect. Although there is an instant attraction between the two, their relationship takes more time to develop, which I appreciated. The slow burn really made the story so much more satisfying.
Finally, A note for those of you who are worried about jumping in at book 5 of the Love in Fairwick Falls series: Don’t be! Although former MCs make an appearance, you don’t need their backstories in order to get what’s happening in Luca and Olivia’s book. I’m willing to bet, though, that after finishing Falling at the Barre, you’re going to want to read the rest of the series ASAP!
In the pages, you will find:
🖤A tough, but soft-hearted, single dad MMC
🩰A struggling professional ballerina FMC
🏘️An quaint small town with lovable characters
🔥A slow burn romance filled with yearning
🎆Sizzling tension
🌶️Spice
❤️”If it’s not you, it’s not anyone” vibes
📙A book you won’t be able to put down!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
December 24, 2025
3/5
Thanks to Netgalley and Elise Kennedy for the ARC!
I think this romance novel started off strong. A last chance ballerina and a grumpy mechanic single dad in a small town, it was the perfect opposites attract pairing. The dynamics between the different relationships were done really well and I loved how Annabelle was portrayed. The romance was sweet, steamy, and there were scenes where the tension was palpable between the main characters. I also really enjoyed the portrayal of deeper themes like grief, healing, acceptance, and finding identity through failure.
The reason this didn’t completely hit for me was that it was too easy. Everything happened too easily and perfectly without any real conflict or obstacles preventing Luca and Olivia from being together in the end. Even potential conflict that occurred outside of the romance was solved so fast, like Luca trying to move his shop and tension with his team, Olivia getting the exact opportunity she was looking for, even any potential family drama was over in a page or two. It didn’t feel like real life and ultimately I lost interest the last half of the story. Any issues that did arise were quickly resolved and there were no stakes towards the end.
If you’re looking for a feel-good pick-me-up with zero drama, then this is the book for you. Personally I enjoy a little more drama and build up so unfortunately this rates lower for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and Elise Kennedy for the ARC!
I think this romance novel started off strong. A last chance ballerina and a grumpy mechanic single dad in a small town, it was the perfect opposites attract pairing. The dynamics between the different relationships were done really well and I loved how Annabelle was portrayed. The romance was sweet, steamy, and there were scenes where the tension was palpable between the main characters. I also really enjoyed the portrayal of deeper themes like grief, healing, acceptance, and finding identity through failure.
The reason this didn’t completely hit for me was that it was too easy. Everything happened too easily and perfectly without any real conflict or obstacles preventing Luca and Olivia from being together in the end. Even potential conflict that occurred outside of the romance was solved so fast, like Luca trying to move his shop and tension with his team, Olivia getting the exact opportunity she was looking for, even any potential family drama was over in a page or two. It didn’t feel like real life and ultimately I lost interest the last half of the story. Any issues that did arise were quickly resolved and there were no stakes towards the end.
If you’re looking for a feel-good pick-me-up with zero drama, then this is the book for you. Personally I enjoy a little more drama and build up so unfortunately this rates lower for me.
December 26, 2025
I love Fairwick Falls and everyone in it.
Elise has given us another amazing read from this world.
I wanted to read about Luca and Annabelle his little girl AB as she calls herself,since Pearl and Reed's story.
Luca is a single dad,he is trying to be a good dad and he is also in the middle of moving his business to Fairwick Falls.He needs a nanny for his daughter.
Olivia needs a new start,but she has a couple of months before she can do that.She comes home to Fairwick Falls.She needs a job andcends up being roped in to teach ballet classes to little girls and to house sit for her old ballet teacher.
As soon as Luca and Olivia meet it is Insta love.Luca falls for her straight away and Olivia has the same feeling.Annabelle and Olivia also form a bond instantly.
Thrn they find out they are neighbours,and Olivia ends up as Annabelle's nanny.
Luca knows Olivia isn't staying,but his feelings keep growing for her and Annabelle is getting very attached to her too.
Olivia has fallen for them both too and has to choose her career or love?
Annabelle was the cutest she was so adorable and Luca was an amazing dad.
There is lots laughter,tears,emotions,great friendships,family,spice,swoony moments and romance along the way to a happily ever after.
Loved every single minute of this book.Loved catching up with everyone as well.Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
I recieved an ARC of this book from Elise Kennedy and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Elise has given us another amazing read from this world.
I wanted to read about Luca and Annabelle his little girl AB as she calls herself,since Pearl and Reed's story.
Luca is a single dad,he is trying to be a good dad and he is also in the middle of moving his business to Fairwick Falls.He needs a nanny for his daughter.
Olivia needs a new start,but she has a couple of months before she can do that.She comes home to Fairwick Falls.She needs a job andcends up being roped in to teach ballet classes to little girls and to house sit for her old ballet teacher.
As soon as Luca and Olivia meet it is Insta love.Luca falls for her straight away and Olivia has the same feeling.Annabelle and Olivia also form a bond instantly.
Thrn they find out they are neighbours,and Olivia ends up as Annabelle's nanny.
Luca knows Olivia isn't staying,but his feelings keep growing for her and Annabelle is getting very attached to her too.
Olivia has fallen for them both too and has to choose her career or love?
Annabelle was the cutest she was so adorable and Luca was an amazing dad.
There is lots laughter,tears,emotions,great friendships,family,spice,swoony moments and romance along the way to a happily ever after.
Loved every single minute of this book.Loved catching up with everyone as well.Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
I recieved an ARC of this book from Elise Kennedy and am voluntarily leaving my review.
December 24, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for an early copy. This book just wasn’t it for me. I love the combo of a single dad and nanny when it is done right and this book didn’t do it terribly wrong. They didn’t seem to be any age gap mentioned and they both were presumably in their 30s. Annabelle, the child was cute throughout the story and wasn’t annoying like some children can be written as. This book is definitely a case of love at first sight, but it honestly is a little creepy and is more of lust at first sight. Luca first sees Olivia and instantly determined he’s going to marry her. Olivia, sees Luca and thinks he’s hot, but it doesn’t go straight into the marrying category. While there is some chemistry between these characters, there isn’t a lot of depth. Most of their interactions tend to be focused around Annabelle or they are sexual in nature. Which, I have no problem with, but it just doesn’t take this book to the next level. Another problem I had was how unrealistic the sexy scenes were. I love my romance books, but leave things somewhat realistic. This wasn’t remotely realistic, and there were so many cringe moments in addition to kind of an unexpected dynamic that formed, and it gave me the ick. There were just too many try-hard moments in general that didn’t let this book flow as naturally as it should. Good concept, but the execution could use some reworking. 3⭐️, 2.5🌶
December 26, 2025
Book #5 of the Fairwick Falls series finally gives us the story we’ve been waiting for! After seeing glimpses of Luca and Olivia in previous books, seeing them take center stage was completely satisfying.
The setup is classic and executed perfectly: Olivia is back home, dusting herself off after being let go from her ballet troupe, and Luca is the overwhelmed single dad and business owner next door. When their needs align—Luca needing a sitter and Olivia needing a job while she preps for auditions—the "nanny" arrangement falls into place naturally.
Highlights:
The Chemistry: Since we already knew them from previous books, the chemistry felt like it had been brewing for a long time. It was sizzling but also incredibly sweet.
AB: You cannot talk about this book without mentioning AB. She couldn't be cuter! She stole every scene she was in and was the perfect bridge between Luca’s guarded heart and Olivia’s warmth.
The Balance: I loved watching Luca and Olivia navigate their individual struggles (his business, her dance career) while realizing they were exactly what the other needed.
This was a heartwarming addition to the Fairwick Falls series. I am already eager to see what happens next in this town! Can’t forge my the meddling older ladies that make this happen.
Tropes: Single Dad, Forced Proximity, Neighbors to Lovers
The setup is classic and executed perfectly: Olivia is back home, dusting herself off after being let go from her ballet troupe, and Luca is the overwhelmed single dad and business owner next door. When their needs align—Luca needing a sitter and Olivia needing a job while she preps for auditions—the "nanny" arrangement falls into place naturally.
Highlights:
The Chemistry: Since we already knew them from previous books, the chemistry felt like it had been brewing for a long time. It was sizzling but also incredibly sweet.
AB: You cannot talk about this book without mentioning AB. She couldn't be cuter! She stole every scene she was in and was the perfect bridge between Luca’s guarded heart and Olivia’s warmth.
The Balance: I loved watching Luca and Olivia navigate their individual struggles (his business, her dance career) while realizing they were exactly what the other needed.
This was a heartwarming addition to the Fairwick Falls series. I am already eager to see what happens next in this town! Can’t forge my the meddling older ladies that make this happen.
Tropes: Single Dad, Forced Proximity, Neighbors to Lovers
December 28, 2025
I loved this tale. Book five in the Love in Fairwick Falls series.
Luca moved to Fairwick Falls to help his daughter Annabelle. Her school needed to be conscientious of her food allergies and her old school was not. So move it is. Now he just needs to move his business too. There are not enough hours in the day to look after Annabelle, run a business and move it to Fairwick Falls.
Olivia is returning to her home town. Her Ballet career has hit a break. She needs to get audition ready for after Christmas when she can go after her dream again.
Olivia soon realises what she had been missing. Friends, family and belonging.
Luca realises he needs a nanny. Olivia finds herself moved in as his neighbor and Annabelle soon find the fascination of ballet irresistible.
All paths converge.
The intense smoldering passion and Lust is explosive. Luca and Olivia fight against their feelings. The resist and put up barriers that they try to maintain.
The heat and passion coming from the page is intense. The characters are beautifully written with care and attention to detail.
I loved this story. Previous leads fit in beautifully, and add depth and understanding to Luca and Olivia. Annabelle is a joy and brightens every page she is on.
I love the Easter eggs for the next book and cant wait.
I loved this story and highly recommend this book, series and author
Luca moved to Fairwick Falls to help his daughter Annabelle. Her school needed to be conscientious of her food allergies and her old school was not. So move it is. Now he just needs to move his business too. There are not enough hours in the day to look after Annabelle, run a business and move it to Fairwick Falls.
Olivia is returning to her home town. Her Ballet career has hit a break. She needs to get audition ready for after Christmas when she can go after her dream again.
Olivia soon realises what she had been missing. Friends, family and belonging.
Luca realises he needs a nanny. Olivia finds herself moved in as his neighbor and Annabelle soon find the fascination of ballet irresistible.
All paths converge.
The intense smoldering passion and Lust is explosive. Luca and Olivia fight against their feelings. The resist and put up barriers that they try to maintain.
The heat and passion coming from the page is intense. The characters are beautifully written with care and attention to detail.
I loved this story. Previous leads fit in beautifully, and add depth and understanding to Luca and Olivia. Annabelle is a joy and brightens every page she is on.
I love the Easter eggs for the next book and cant wait.
I loved this story and highly recommend this book, series and author
January 9, 2026
This book is an absolute gem!!
It’s the 5th in the Love in Fairwicks Falls series, and let me tell you, after reading it, I immediately got the other 4!! (Yeah I did not read them in order and that is fiiiine). I loved them all but Falling at the barre is still my favorite.
Olivia & Luca’s story is sweet, strong and spicy. (Ouh those are 3 nice s now ahah). The characters evolution and challenges are well crafted and written. It doesn’t fall into the obvious trap that could be boring or — in my case — annoying (for example a miscommunication is a no no for me).
Luca is sweet and dedicated to his niece. Olivia is at a crossroads in her life and career. Of course they find their way to each other, in a very beautiful way. Their chemistry and love off the charts.
Olivia is sassy and fun and the perfect addition to their little family.
If you want a sweet, fun, melting you in a puddle romcom, this one’s for you! You get all the laugh + the spices.
The Love in Fairwicks Falls books combine everything that I love:
Dual pov
Sweet and strong characters
Unique female characters
Powerful, one in a lifetime, made for each other, ‘wtf is happening to me’ kind of love (spoiler: Luca’s I’m gonna marry her at the start of Falling at the barre had me kicking my feet).
Spicy
It’s the 5th in the Love in Fairwicks Falls series, and let me tell you, after reading it, I immediately got the other 4!! (Yeah I did not read them in order and that is fiiiine). I loved them all but Falling at the barre is still my favorite.
Olivia & Luca’s story is sweet, strong and spicy. (Ouh those are 3 nice s now ahah). The characters evolution and challenges are well crafted and written. It doesn’t fall into the obvious trap that could be boring or — in my case — annoying (for example a miscommunication is a no no for me).
Luca is sweet and dedicated to his niece. Olivia is at a crossroads in her life and career. Of course they find their way to each other, in a very beautiful way. Their chemistry and love off the charts.
Olivia is sassy and fun and the perfect addition to their little family.
If you want a sweet, fun, melting you in a puddle romcom, this one’s for you! You get all the laugh + the spices.
The Love in Fairwicks Falls books combine everything that I love:
Dual pov
Sweet and strong characters
Unique female characters
Powerful, one in a lifetime, made for each other, ‘wtf is happening to me’ kind of love (spoiler: Luca’s I’m gonna marry her at the start of Falling at the barre had me kicking my feet).
Spicy
December 14, 2025
Thankyou to NetGalley for this ARC.
Where do I start?
I chose this book because it’s a ballerina romance; something close to my heart.
The way the FMC has to break out of that toxic cycle of beating herself down because that’s what she’s used to through all her years of dance was a struggle that really resonated with me.
Then the MMC helping her to overcome it had me sobbing every time because what an absolute treasure of a man.
The MMC had me in love with him from the first chapter. Making ‘cute lunches’ for his daughter, sacrificing his entire life to give her what he couldn’t/didn’t have when he was young. His ‘no yelling in the house’ rule as his own personal way to try and break toxic generational cycles had my heart swelling.
Now, the spicy shit. 🌶️
I’m not usually one for the ‘love at first sight’ trope, but the YEARNING coming from these two as they continually gave in to each other had me squealing and kicking my legs. Not to mention the fact that this dude has a major breeding kink. 😉
Safe to say I absolutely LOVED this book, even though I haven’t read the books before it.
(Which I will now do immediately.)
Where do I start?
I chose this book because it’s a ballerina romance; something close to my heart.
The way the FMC has to break out of that toxic cycle of beating herself down because that’s what she’s used to through all her years of dance was a struggle that really resonated with me.
Then the MMC helping her to overcome it had me sobbing every time because what an absolute treasure of a man.
The MMC had me in love with him from the first chapter. Making ‘cute lunches’ for his daughter, sacrificing his entire life to give her what he couldn’t/didn’t have when he was young. His ‘no yelling in the house’ rule as his own personal way to try and break toxic generational cycles had my heart swelling.
Now, the spicy shit. 🌶️
I’m not usually one for the ‘love at first sight’ trope, but the YEARNING coming from these two as they continually gave in to each other had me squealing and kicking my legs. Not to mention the fact that this dude has a major breeding kink. 😉
Safe to say I absolutely LOVED this book, even though I haven’t read the books before it.
(Which I will now do immediately.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2025
✨Single dad x nanny
✨Insta love
✨Spicy
✨Found family
This book was a breath of fresh air! As a mood reader I was intrigued by the new concept, you don’t often see a ballerina portrayed in romance novels. This book is for fans of cozy romance with some spice to back it up, as well as lovers of fall romances. Especially for those who like the insta love trope.
Luca and Annabelle had such a cute relationship and the sass oh my gosh I adore AB! This book is a great example of ways you can create a cozy hallmark-like storyline and still include creative ways to keep readers entranced.
I really enjoyed the relationships that Olivia had with her family and those around her, the way that despite having moved away for work or other reasons, most people still have their village of people you can pick up with at the drop of a hat as if not a day had gone by.
This book is part of a series of interconnected standalones, and I kinda jumped right into the middle of the series but I am very excited to go back and read the other stories and I am extremely excited for the next book in this series for the amazing Allison and Wells!
✨Insta love
✨Spicy
✨Found family
This book was a breath of fresh air! As a mood reader I was intrigued by the new concept, you don’t often see a ballerina portrayed in romance novels. This book is for fans of cozy romance with some spice to back it up, as well as lovers of fall romances. Especially for those who like the insta love trope.
Luca and Annabelle had such a cute relationship and the sass oh my gosh I adore AB! This book is a great example of ways you can create a cozy hallmark-like storyline and still include creative ways to keep readers entranced.
I really enjoyed the relationships that Olivia had with her family and those around her, the way that despite having moved away for work or other reasons, most people still have their village of people you can pick up with at the drop of a hat as if not a day had gone by.
This book is part of a series of interconnected standalones, and I kinda jumped right into the middle of the series but I am very excited to go back and read the other stories and I am extremely excited for the next book in this series for the amazing Allison and Wells!
December 5, 2025
Falling at the Barre is a cozy, sweet small-town romance about a single dad who falls first (and hard) for his daughter's ballet teacher and nanny.
Olivia is a ballerina in transition and comes back to her hometown to reset. She ends up teaching (and nannying) her next door neighbor Luca’s daughter, the absolutely adorable AB, who steals every scene. Luca is an absolute cinnamon-roll MMC and Olivia so warm and sweet. Their love story with its slow-burn chemistry, great communication and total lack of drama made for such an easy, heartwarming read.
I really enjoyed the found-family and coming home parts of the story and the way Olivia and Luca help each other see that needing support isn’t a weakness. This story is sweet, lightly spicy, full of heartwarming charm and perfect for small-town romance fans. I'll definitely be adding the other books in this series to my TBR💜
Thank you Elise Kennedy and NetGalley for a copy of *Falling at the Barre* in exchange for my honest review.
Olivia is a ballerina in transition and comes back to her hometown to reset. She ends up teaching (and nannying) her next door neighbor Luca’s daughter, the absolutely adorable AB, who steals every scene. Luca is an absolute cinnamon-roll MMC and Olivia so warm and sweet. Their love story with its slow-burn chemistry, great communication and total lack of drama made for such an easy, heartwarming read.
I really enjoyed the found-family and coming home parts of the story and the way Olivia and Luca help each other see that needing support isn’t a weakness. This story is sweet, lightly spicy, full of heartwarming charm and perfect for small-town romance fans. I'll definitely be adding the other books in this series to my TBR💜
Thank you Elise Kennedy and NetGalley for a copy of *Falling at the Barre* in exchange for my honest review.
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