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Dare to Fall #1
Falling for Trouble
Brother’s Best Friend • Forbidden Romance • Billionaire Protector • Miami Heat • A Dare Family Series Story
He’s the bad boy my family warned me about—and the one man I can’t have.
I just landed the job of my dreams—planning the Miami Thunder football team’s anniversary celebration—and I can’t afford distractions. Especially not tattooed billionaire and reformed troublemaker Lucas Carras. He exudes alpha-hero intensity, but he’s been off limits for as long as I’ve known him.
But the kickoff party is happening at the nightclub he co-owns with my brother… and with my sibling out of town, I’m stuck working with Lucas.
Forced proximity ignites the desire we’ve both been pretending doesn’t exist. From bedrooms to storage rooms, the scorching tension causes us to cross every line we swore we wouldn’t. On paper, we’re complete opposites. In reality, the chemistry is undeniable.
This party is everything I’ve worked for—my moment to prove myself. Until the sabotage starts.
Orders vanish. Vendors back out. Someone is determined to ruin the anniversary… and my reputation along with it.
Suddenly Lucas isn’t just a distraction. He’s my protector, my anchor, and the only man I trust to stand by my side.
But when my brother finds out about us, family drama explodes. And I’m torn between being the good girl who plays by the rules... and falling for trouble.
Perfect for fans of Carly Phillips and high-heat sports romance, Falling for Trouble features a possessive hero, high-stakes suspense, and a guaranteed HEA.
He’s the bad boy my family warned me about—and the one man I can’t have.
I just landed the job of my dreams—planning the Miami Thunder football team’s anniversary celebration—and I can’t afford distractions. Especially not tattooed billionaire and reformed troublemaker Lucas Carras. He exudes alpha-hero intensity, but he’s been off limits for as long as I’ve known him.
But the kickoff party is happening at the nightclub he co-owns with my brother… and with my sibling out of town, I’m stuck working with Lucas.
Forced proximity ignites the desire we’ve both been pretending doesn’t exist. From bedrooms to storage rooms, the scorching tension causes us to cross every line we swore we wouldn’t. On paper, we’re complete opposites. In reality, the chemistry is undeniable.
This party is everything I’ve worked for—my moment to prove myself. Until the sabotage starts.
Orders vanish. Vendors back out. Someone is determined to ruin the anniversary… and my reputation along with it.
Suddenly Lucas isn’t just a distraction. He’s my protector, my anchor, and the only man I trust to stand by my side.
But when my brother finds out about us, family drama explodes. And I’m torn between being the good girl who plays by the rules... and falling for trouble.
Perfect for fans of Carly Phillips and high-heat sports romance, Falling for Trouble features a possessive hero, high-stakes suspense, and a guaranteed HEA.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2026
About the author
Carly Phillips
271 books9,851 followersNY Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestseller, Carly Phillips is the queen of Alpha Heroes, at least according to The Harlequin Junkie Reviewer.. Carly married her college sweetheart and lives in Purchase, NY along with her crazy dogs who are featured on her Facebook and Instagram pages. The author of over 75 romance novels, she has raised two incredible daughters and is now an empty nester. Carly’s book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa as her first romance club pick. Carly loves social media and interacting with her readers. Want to keep up with Carly? Sign up for her newsletter and receive TWO FREE books at www.carlyphillips.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 254 reviews
March 11, 2026
2.75/5
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for providing me with an ALC of this book in return for a voluntary and unbiased review!
I cannot in good faith believe that this FMC is smart enough to run a business and not put 2 and 2 together throughout the plot of this book.. This happened multiple times through the book andd then the MMC of course has to come in and say the most basic theory ever?? Idk it just irks me, let our smart fmcs be smart!!
I liked the background of our MMC, sometimes when you grow out of old bad habits and behaviours you can struggle to see the actual change in yourself. I was glad to see Lucas understand and be shown that people have seen his development and no longer view him as that child he was described as.
The narrators were really fun and easy to listen to - you could hear the emotion in their voices throughout the book which really helped hold my attention and make everything feel more suspenseful when needed! I'd love to check out more of their works in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for providing me with an ALC of this book in return for a voluntary and unbiased review!
I cannot in good faith believe that this FMC is smart enough to run a business and not put 2 and 2 together throughout the plot of this book.. This happened multiple times through the book andd then the MMC of course has to come in and say the most basic theory ever?? Idk it just irks me, let our smart fmcs be smart!!
I liked the background of our MMC, sometimes when you grow out of old bad habits and behaviours you can struggle to see the actual change in yourself. I was glad to see Lucas understand and be shown that people have seen his development and no longer view him as that child he was described as.
The narrators were really fun and easy to listen to - you could hear the emotion in their voices throughout the book which really helped hold my attention and make everything feel more suspenseful when needed! I'd love to check out more of their works in the future!
February 7, 2026
This was such a fun, quick and easy romance! I really enjoyed it! The writing was smooth and kept me interested the whole time. I never felt bored and I really, really liked the characters in this book! The romance was definitely the main focus for me, and I loved watching Rainey and Lucas finally give in to feelings they'd been holding back! It was very sweet and satisfying. The pacing worked really well for a shorter book and while I would've loved even more time with some of the side relationships, this was such a good, solid start to the series! If you're looking for a fast, sweet romance with a little spice (especially if you enjoy the brother's best friend trope) this is definitely worth picking up! I'm sooo excited to read the next book!
April 6, 2026
1.5
I picked this audiobook up for a long car ride, hoping for something fun and easy, but it really struggled to keep me entertained.
Between the two main characters, whose names are already slipping my mind, the romance felt way too insta-love with not nearly enough emotional buildup for me to feel invested. I understand they had a prior connection, but I really think this story needed flashbacks or something deeper to show why they fell so quickly.
The characters felt very one-dimensional, and I wasn’t interested in them at all, especially the female main character. I found it frustrating how often her body was brought up. She constantly described herself as curvy and somewhat unhappy with her body , while also talking about going to the gym regularly but not enjoying it, loving carbs and sugar, and not wanting to give them up. Yet none of those feelings came up during sex? At the same time, the audiobook cover depicts her as quite thin, which made the whole thing feel inconsistent and a bit off. She also mentions being the daughter of a well-off family with a trust fund, while insisting her business is entirely self-made, even though she used that money for the down payment. That dynamic just didn’t sit right with me. It came across as a lack of awareness of her own privilege, and between that and the body image contradictions, I really did not like her character.
I will say the spicy scenes were well written. Unfortunately, because I wasn’t invested in the characters or the romance, they didn’t land the way they probably should have.
The conflict felt overly dramatic but also too easily resolved, and the stakes never felt meaningful. At times, it felt like certain plot points were just there to move the story along rather than add real depth.
The audiobook itself was well performed. The narrators did a good job bringing the characters to life, but the story just didn’t hold my interest enough for me to fully enjoy the listening experience.
Thank you to Libro.fm for the ALC.
I picked this audiobook up for a long car ride, hoping for something fun and easy, but it really struggled to keep me entertained.
Between the two main characters, whose names are already slipping my mind, the romance felt way too insta-love with not nearly enough emotional buildup for me to feel invested. I understand they had a prior connection, but I really think this story needed flashbacks or something deeper to show why they fell so quickly.
The characters felt very one-dimensional, and I wasn’t interested in them at all, especially the female main character. I found it frustrating how often her body was brought up. She constantly described herself as curvy and somewhat unhappy with her body , while also talking about going to the gym regularly but not enjoying it, loving carbs and sugar, and not wanting to give them up. Yet none of those feelings came up during sex? At the same time, the audiobook cover depicts her as quite thin, which made the whole thing feel inconsistent and a bit off. She also mentions being the daughter of a well-off family with a trust fund, while insisting her business is entirely self-made, even though she used that money for the down payment. That dynamic just didn’t sit right with me. It came across as a lack of awareness of her own privilege, and between that and the body image contradictions, I really did not like her character.
I will say the spicy scenes were well written. Unfortunately, because I wasn’t invested in the characters or the romance, they didn’t land the way they probably should have.
The conflict felt overly dramatic but also too easily resolved, and the stakes never felt meaningful. At times, it felt like certain plot points were just there to move the story along rather than add real depth.
The audiobook itself was well performed. The narrators did a good job bringing the characters to life, but the story just didn’t hold my interest enough for me to fully enjoy the listening experience.
Thank you to Libro.fm for the ALC.
March 15, 2026
Falling for Trouble by Carly Phillips
Audiobook narrated by Charlie Fog and Verla Bond
Rainey - event planner teams up with Lucas – nightclub owner and her brother’s business partner / best friend to host an upcoming event. This event is being sabotaged and Rainey is being threatened – giving Lucas extra reason to stay close to her.
Due to their new working proximity both acknowledge they are hot for each other.
But of course, she prefers relationships and he doesn’t do relationships. They agree to a temporary arrangement.
Despite both being nearing their 30s we are still worried about things we did as teenagers – as well as what our brother/best friend thinks?
Some issues from the past conveniently resolve themselves with an easy conversation.
Both narrators did an excellent job, and it was great to listen to with none of those side characters having irritating voices. Enjoyed listening to this one and a shame it went so fast.
Let out a breath being held times two
Rich people, brothers’ best friend, forbidden relationship, manipulative ex, he talks a lot for his genitals, good communication, workplace sabotage, spice.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media
Audiobook narrated by Charlie Fog and Verla Bond
Rainey - event planner teams up with Lucas – nightclub owner and her brother’s business partner / best friend to host an upcoming event. This event is being sabotaged and Rainey is being threatened – giving Lucas extra reason to stay close to her.
Due to their new working proximity both acknowledge they are hot for each other.
But of course, she prefers relationships and he doesn’t do relationships. They agree to a temporary arrangement.
Despite both being nearing their 30s we are still worried about things we did as teenagers – as well as what our brother/best friend thinks?
Some issues from the past conveniently resolve themselves with an easy conversation.
Both narrators did an excellent job, and it was great to listen to with none of those side characters having irritating voices. Enjoyed listening to this one and a shame it went so fast.
Let out a breath being held times two
Rich people, brothers’ best friend, forbidden relationship, manipulative ex, he talks a lot for his genitals, good communication, workplace sabotage, spice.
Thanks to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media
March 18, 2026
This was a quick, easy read.
The plot was paced well overall but the romance felt very insta-love(ish). The sabotage and threats against the FMC added a fun twist to the story (even if it was glaring obvious who the saboteur was).
Charlie Vog and Verla Bond are both new to me narrators but I really enjoyed their performances.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC exchange of an honest review.
The plot was paced well overall but the romance felt very insta-love(ish). The sabotage and threats against the FMC added a fun twist to the story (even if it was glaring obvious who the saboteur was).
Charlie Vog and Verla Bond are both new to me narrators but I really enjoyed their performances.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC exchange of an honest review.
March 28, 2026
2/5 ⭐
I was generously gifted a copy of the audiobook from the publisher.
This was… fine. And I hate saying that as someone who reads a lot of romance, but it just didn’t do much for me. It felt a bit amateur throughout, so while I enjoyed some parts and the premise had potential, I don’t think it really nailed the execution.
I was really excited to read about an FMC who is a corporate event planner and owns her own business. But when things start going wrong with the event, she barely reacts and takes way too long to put obvious pieces together. It made her feel more passive than competent, which was frustrating! There’s some attempted tension with things going wrong and a bit of a mystery element, but it drags without enough payoff.
Also, the FMC’s ex-boyfriend who shows up throughout the story is an obvious red flag & she lets him get away with too much! If Crime Junkie and Ashley Flowers have taught me anything, it’s stay weird, stay alive, and this man was the definition of why. Cut him off, sister.
Even if I could let those elements of the plot slide, the romance didn’t work for me. The MMC is her brother’s longtime best friend, but somehow they’ve never really had any meaningful one-on-one time until now?
And the MMC’s dialogue… I’m so sorry, but I did get the ICK. It takes a lot to get to me because I truly have read it all, but some of his lines gave me secondhand embarrassment to the point where I had to pause the audiobook just to recover. For example, “She tastes like spice and willing female.” EWWWWWW stop please I’m begging.
Overall, this book doesn’t quite commit to any one lane. Not funny enough to feel like a rom-com, not tense enough for suspense, and the romance just didn’t work for me.
I was generously gifted a copy of the audiobook from the publisher.
This was… fine. And I hate saying that as someone who reads a lot of romance, but it just didn’t do much for me. It felt a bit amateur throughout, so while I enjoyed some parts and the premise had potential, I don’t think it really nailed the execution.
I was really excited to read about an FMC who is a corporate event planner and owns her own business. But when things start going wrong with the event, she barely reacts and takes way too long to put obvious pieces together. It made her feel more passive than competent, which was frustrating! There’s some attempted tension with things going wrong and a bit of a mystery element, but it drags without enough payoff.
Also, the FMC’s ex-boyfriend who shows up throughout the story is an obvious red flag & she lets him get away with too much! If Crime Junkie and Ashley Flowers have taught me anything, it’s stay weird, stay alive, and this man was the definition of why. Cut him off, sister.
Even if I could let those elements of the plot slide, the romance didn’t work for me. The MMC is her brother’s longtime best friend, but somehow they’ve never really had any meaningful one-on-one time until now?
And the MMC’s dialogue… I’m so sorry, but I did get the ICK. It takes a lot to get to me because I truly have read it all, but some of his lines gave me secondhand embarrassment to the point where I had to pause the audiobook just to recover. For example, “She tastes like spice and willing female.” EWWWWWW stop please I’m begging.
Overall, this book doesn’t quite commit to any one lane. Not funny enough to feel like a rom-com, not tense enough for suspense, and the romance just didn’t work for me.
March 21, 2026
This book was such a fun little treat. It’s definitely on the shorter side, and while it leans into some familiar tropes and predictability, that honestly didn’t take away from the experience—it added to the charm. Sometimes you want a story that feels comfortable and easy to sink into, and this delivered exactly that.
It ended up being the perfect palate cleanser, especially before bed. There’s something really satisfying about finishing a whole book in one sitting and closing it with a smile, and this one hit that sweet spot.
I also really appreciated the spice. I love a bit of heat in a story, though I don’t think every book needs it—but in this case, it felt like it fit perfectly and added that extra layer of fun and chemistry between the characters. It complemented the story rather than overpowering it.
If you’re in the mood for something light, quick, and entertaining, this is absolutely worth picking up. It’s cute, easy to read, and just a genuinely enjoyable escape.
#arc #netgalley #fallingfortrouble
It ended up being the perfect palate cleanser, especially before bed. There’s something really satisfying about finishing a whole book in one sitting and closing it with a smile, and this one hit that sweet spot.
I also really appreciated the spice. I love a bit of heat in a story, though I don’t think every book needs it—but in this case, it felt like it fit perfectly and added that extra layer of fun and chemistry between the characters. It complemented the story rather than overpowering it.
If you’re in the mood for something light, quick, and entertaining, this is absolutely worth picking up. It’s cute, easy to read, and just a genuinely enjoyable escape.
#arc #netgalley #fallingfortrouble
February 5, 2026
This is the first book in a new series and it starts it off on a real high. The chemistry between Lucas and Rainey is sizzling hot and one that radiates off the pages. Lucas has a past that he is not proud of and one that holds him back from Rainey. However, with the connection these two have and the fact that Rainey sees the growth he has made from a troubled teen to an amazing and successful man, these two were never going to be able to stay away. The story draws you in with not only the energy of the characters but with the suspension and mystery that surrounds them, that keeps you on the edge of your seat guessing who might be causing mayhem and sabotage. The relationship between Rainey and Lucas is not an easy one with complications, however it is worth all the family drama as these two must get past overprotective brothers and a father that is cautious. There is plenty and heat and steam and drama to go hand in hand with a beautifully written love story.
March 10, 2026
Thank you RBMedia and NetGalley for the audio arc.
Audiobook Review – Dare to Fall by Carly Phillips ⭐⭐⭐⭐
As a longtime fan of the Dare family universe, Dare to Fall was such a fun addition to the series. Carly Phillips always delivers when it comes to family connections, chemistry, and emotional moments, and this story fit perfectly into that world.
I really enjoyed the dual narration for the audiobook. Having both perspectives brought the characters to life and made the romance feel even more engaging. The narrators did a great job capturing the emotions and personalities of the characters, which made the listening experience really enjoyable.
The story had the perfect mix of romance, family ties, and the signature Dare-family drama that keeps me coming back to this series. If you’re already a fan of the Dare books, this one is definitely worth picking up on audio.
Overall, a solid 4star listen for me, and I’m always happy to spend more time in the Dare family universe!
Audiobook Review – Dare to Fall by Carly Phillips ⭐⭐⭐⭐
As a longtime fan of the Dare family universe, Dare to Fall was such a fun addition to the series. Carly Phillips always delivers when it comes to family connections, chemistry, and emotional moments, and this story fit perfectly into that world.
I really enjoyed the dual narration for the audiobook. Having both perspectives brought the characters to life and made the romance feel even more engaging. The narrators did a great job capturing the emotions and personalities of the characters, which made the listening experience really enjoyable.
The story had the perfect mix of romance, family ties, and the signature Dare-family drama that keeps me coming back to this series. If you’re already a fan of the Dare books, this one is definitely worth picking up on audio.
Overall, a solid 4star listen for me, and I’m always happy to spend more time in the Dare family universe!
February 5, 2026
Falling for Trouble was a fun and addictive read. I really loved the writing style, it was smooth and easy to get into, and the plot flowed nicely without feeling heavy.
Rainey was a solid FMC. I liked how driven and career focused she was, and how much this event meant to her. Lucas is full on billionaire protector energy and very clearly all in for her. Their chemistry was strong and the forbidden plus forced proximity trope worked well.
The sabotage plot added tension and kept things interesting, even if parts were a bit predictable. I do wish the family drama had been explored a little more.
Overall, this was an enjoyable with great writing, good pacing, and strong chemistry. I’ll definitely continue the series.
Thank you to The Author Agency, Wildfire Marketing Solutions & Carly Phillips for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rainey was a solid FMC. I liked how driven and career focused she was, and how much this event meant to her. Lucas is full on billionaire protector energy and very clearly all in for her. Their chemistry was strong and the forbidden plus forced proximity trope worked well.
The sabotage plot added tension and kept things interesting, even if parts were a bit predictable. I do wish the family drama had been explored a little more.
Overall, this was an enjoyable with great writing, good pacing, and strong chemistry. I’ll definitely continue the series.
Thank you to The Author Agency, Wildfire Marketing Solutions & Carly Phillips for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2026
Falling for Trouble by Carley Phillips is a fun, feel good romance that kept me hooked from start to finish. The chemistry between the main characters was strong and believable, and I loved the mix of humor, tension, and heart woven throughout the story.
The plot had just enough drama to keep things interesting without feeling over the top, and the emotional moments really landed. While a few parts felt a bit predictable, the engaging writing and lovable characters made up for it.
Overall, this was an entertaining and satisfying read, perfect if you’re in the mood for a light, steamy romance with a bit of depth.
The plot had just enough drama to keep things interesting without feeling over the top, and the emotional moments really landed. While a few parts felt a bit predictable, the engaging writing and lovable characters made up for it.
Overall, this was an entertaining and satisfying read, perfect if you’re in the mood for a light, steamy romance with a bit of depth.
February 9, 2026
4 star
This is Rainey and Lucas’s story. She is planning an event at a bar her brother owns with Lucas. But her brother is away, which forces her to work with Lucas. Lucas knows that Rainey is off limits. But when danger comes calling for her, he is going to protect her at all costs. With them spending more and more time together they grow closer and fall for each other, but will the family approve? Or will she have to lose one or the other?
I recommend this book.
This is Rainey and Lucas’s story. She is planning an event at a bar her brother owns with Lucas. But her brother is away, which forces her to work with Lucas. Lucas knows that Rainey is off limits. But when danger comes calling for her, he is going to protect her at all costs. With them spending more and more time together they grow closer and fall for each other, but will the family approve? Or will she have to lose one or the other?
I recommend this book.
April 13, 2026
This was an easy, short, and enjoyable read. Brother’s best friend with a troubled past. Super successful fmc with a big and nosy family. There’s yearning, tension, and a danger angle I wasn’t expecting. Both characters have a lot of growth and overall it was a very enjoyable and well-rounded read. I received an audiobook from NetGalley and Dreamscape Media. It was narrated by Charlie Fog and Verla Bond. They both are wonderful narrators and delivered a great performance. A duet narration would have served this story well.
May 1, 2026
3.5 stars. Pick this book up if you're looking for a lighthearted romance. It was cute with a lotta spice and while there was a conflict in the story that I thought might bring the excitement, I found it a bit anti-climactic.
May 19, 2026
Thank you @NetGalley and @DreamscapeMedia for the ALC. Carly Phillips books have been a favorite of mine for years. Falling for Trouble is a brothers best friend troupe. Rainey just landed her dream job of planning the 50th anniversary of a Miami football team. Her brother owns a club with his best friend Lucas, who is the hottest man Rainey has ever met. Now she has to work with him while her brother is out of town and sparks are flying. Charlie Fog does a great job as narrator. This is book one in a series.
March 21, 2026
ALC from NetGalley - This book was very cute and heartwarming. I love a cozy romance and this fit the bill perfectly. A wonderful brother’s best friend-to-lovers story filled with some suspense and swoon-worthy romantic gestures. It did get spicy at some points so if you don’t like that this may not be for you. Overall I really enjoyed it.
April 4, 2026
This was insanely underwhelming. There wasn't much to this. Everyone was rather empty headed and the descriptions of the FMC that the dude thought gave me the ick.
May 1, 2026
I love following up with the Dare Family! Ian Dare’s daughter is the FMC trying not to fall for her brother’s best friend and business partner. I enjoyed their banter, watching the relationship develop and can’t wait to read about the rest of the family in future books. This was a fast read for me as the story keep me interested.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 30, 2026
Falling For Trouble was a fantastic start to the new Dare to Fall series from Carly Phillips. Ian and Riley Dare's little girl Rainey is all grown up and of course has her eyes on bad boy Lucas Carras, her brother Jack's best friend and business partner. This story took me to my happy place being back with the next generation from the original Dare series. Rainey was the perfect main character to get her story first in this new series.
Falling for Trouble was an absolute catnip read for me. Revisiting favorite characters, check. Hero falling first, check. Reformed bad boy, check. Kickass, strong, smart heroine, check. I loved every moment of this book. Rainey and Lucas had the kind of chemistry that was apparent anytime they were in the vicinity of one another. I swear when Ian Dare learned Rainey would be working with Lucas for details for the anniversary party, he knew they would end up as a couple.
I loved that both Rainey and Lucas were very strong characters. Yes, Lucas being the alpha male he is wanted to protect Rainey, but she was also strong and capable on her own. The suspense element was at just the right level to add to the story without overpowering the romance between Rainey and Lucas. I've mentioned the very strong chemistry between the characters, but there was also a sweetness to them as a couple that made me love them together even more. I just loved every single moment of this book.
The Dare family series remains one of my favorite series of characters written by Carly Phillips. I'm absolutely over the moon excited to get to read books with the next generation, while getting to see the original characters again. I highly recommend Falling for Trouble for romance fans everywhere.
Rating: 5 Stars (A)
Review copy provided by publisher
Falling for Trouble was an absolute catnip read for me. Revisiting favorite characters, check. Hero falling first, check. Reformed bad boy, check. Kickass, strong, smart heroine, check. I loved every moment of this book. Rainey and Lucas had the kind of chemistry that was apparent anytime they were in the vicinity of one another. I swear when Ian Dare learned Rainey would be working with Lucas for details for the anniversary party, he knew they would end up as a couple.
I loved that both Rainey and Lucas were very strong characters. Yes, Lucas being the alpha male he is wanted to protect Rainey, but she was also strong and capable on her own. The suspense element was at just the right level to add to the story without overpowering the romance between Rainey and Lucas. I've mentioned the very strong chemistry between the characters, but there was also a sweetness to them as a couple that made me love them together even more. I just loved every single moment of this book.
The Dare family series remains one of my favorite series of characters written by Carly Phillips. I'm absolutely over the moon excited to get to read books with the next generation, while getting to see the original characters again. I highly recommend Falling for Trouble for romance fans everywhere.
Rating: 5 Stars (A)
Review copy provided by publisher
February 7, 2026
Universal
Rainey's so happy that her firm has won their bid to plan the Thunder's 50th anniversary celebration. She and her business partner did it on their own without having to be the nepo baby and ask her father (the Thunder's owner) to help. But it's when her brother's best friend and business partner is paired with her firm to help, that things take a turn. Being in such close proximity with the guy she's crushed on and is ridiculously attracted to, is begging her to step over that forbidden line. Can she and Lucas resist the pull?
Lucas has spent nearly his whole life believing he's not good enough - not for his friend Jack, and definitely not for Jack's sister. His childhood was horrible, and he made some not so great choices that led him into some not so great company. But he was adopted by amazing parents, and has now become a successful businessman, is a ride or die best friend, is protective of the people he cares about. He's always known he can't even think twice about Rainey, but he's unable to keep hold of his restraint any longer. He'll keep it a secret like she asks, hoping it won't get ugly if it comes to light, but knowing inside it's gonna be a disaster...
Rainey and Lucas are so sweet, and their chemistry melted my Kindle the first page they see each other again. I felt so hard for Lucas, his past had done a number on him, so it makes it perfect that he and Rainey fell in love, because she saw through his bad boy image and into his tender, if bruised, heart. I've been reading the Dares for a long time, and each one has so much love to give. This time around, it was Rainey's turn to fall, and fall she did, for the man perfect for her. I adored them together and loved being in the big world of the Dares again. Brother Jack's story is coming up soon, as well as Lucas and Jack's business partner Tristan - and I can't wait!
ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.
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Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What started as a short term secret fling turned into something that Lucas and Rainey couldn’t have denied if they tried! Despite the typical romance novel fear of her dad and brother finding out she’s dating someone, it’s clear that Lucas is good for Rainey and will always take care of her. Can’t wait to read next in the series! 5 stars-By Megan
The Dares are back and couldn't be happier! I am a huge Carly Phillips fan and could not wait to get my hands on this book. I love how Rainey really wants to make a name for herself and not depend on her Dad and the Dare name to make her dreams come true. When she lands a huge event she believes things are finally turning around for her. However, someone is still out to sabotage everything she is working so hard for.
Lucas is Rainey's brother's best friend and the co-owner of the club where she wants to hold her event. The chemistry between the two is off the charts and they finally give in to the temptation. It isn't long before they realize that what they have is something they actually want to pursue even though they know that it's not going to be easily accepted by the family. Of course what happens when you try to hide a relationship? It gets exposed in the most dramatic way, leading to some interesting moments.
This book really pulled me in right away. The writing was phenomenal and the characters were amazing. There was a lot of drama and suspense that had me in the edge of my seat wondering how everything was going to work out. I loved how Lucas was so protective over Rainey and wanted to be there to help in any way that he could. I can't wait for the next book in this series! 4 stars- By Alisa
Rainey Dare co-owns Golden Palm Events with her best friend, Kaylee Martin, and they are trying to make a name for themselves on their own despite Rainey's connections to the Miami Thunder football team owned by her father. After recently having some bad press she is determined to prove that they are a great events company.
Lucas Carras had a rough childhood but has turned his life around and owns a nightclub with Rainey's brother, Jack. When he begins working with Rainey on her latest plans will he be able to keep his attraction to her at bay when it's clear someone is after her?
I enjoyed this book but I think what prevented me from rating it higher was that I had everything figured out almost from the beginning and yes there was tension but everything went pretty smoothly in regards to Lucas and Rainey.
There was definitely attraction and feelings between Lucas and Rainey right from the beginning but because of Lucas's past and his relationship with Jack nothing had ever happened between the two of them. Rainey also wanted to prove that she could handle the event for the Miami Thunder on her own and be able to prove to everyone that she was more than capable of having success.
When things began to go wrong right away I guessed who it was but Rainey was able to pick up the pieces with help from other people and get everything back on track. In a way it was frustrating that it took a few times before she got it right and figured it all out.
I liked the relationship between Lucas and Rainey and you know when things are kept a secret they are going to blow up to a certain degree but I felt like this one was resolved between everyone pretty fast.
I look forward to more from this author! 3.5 Stars- Rebecca
The Dares are back and couldn't be happier! I am a huge Carly Phillips fan and could not wait to get my hands on this book. I love how Rainey really wants to make a name for herself and not depend on her Dad and the Dare name to make her dreams come true. When she lands a huge event she believes things are finally turning around for her. However, someone is still out to sabotage everything she is working so hard for.
Lucas is Rainey's brother's best friend and the co-owner of the club where she wants to hold her event. The chemistry between the two is off the charts and they finally give in to the temptation. It isn't long before they realize that what they have is something they actually want to pursue even though they know that it's not going to be easily accepted by the family. Of course what happens when you try to hide a relationship? It gets exposed in the most dramatic way, leading to some interesting moments.
This book really pulled me in right away. The writing was phenomenal and the characters were amazing. There was a lot of drama and suspense that had me in the edge of my seat wondering how everything was going to work out. I loved how Lucas was so protective over Rainey and wanted to be there to help in any way that he could. I can't wait for the next book in this series! 4 stars- By Alisa
Rainey Dare co-owns Golden Palm Events with her best friend, Kaylee Martin, and they are trying to make a name for themselves on their own despite Rainey's connections to the Miami Thunder football team owned by her father. After recently having some bad press she is determined to prove that they are a great events company.
Lucas Carras had a rough childhood but has turned his life around and owns a nightclub with Rainey's brother, Jack. When he begins working with Rainey on her latest plans will he be able to keep his attraction to her at bay when it's clear someone is after her?
I enjoyed this book but I think what prevented me from rating it higher was that I had everything figured out almost from the beginning and yes there was tension but everything went pretty smoothly in regards to Lucas and Rainey.
There was definitely attraction and feelings between Lucas and Rainey right from the beginning but because of Lucas's past and his relationship with Jack nothing had ever happened between the two of them. Rainey also wanted to prove that she could handle the event for the Miami Thunder on her own and be able to prove to everyone that she was more than capable of having success.
When things began to go wrong right away I guessed who it was but Rainey was able to pick up the pieces with help from other people and get everything back on track. In a way it was frustrating that it took a few times before she got it right and figured it all out.
I liked the relationship between Lucas and Rainey and you know when things are kept a secret they are going to blow up to a certain degree but I felt like this one was resolved between everyone pretty fast.
I look forward to more from this author! 3.5 Stars- Rebecca
Review of advance copy received from Author
When Carly Phillips started mentioning a secret project to me and other members of her reader group we were all intrigued but most of us don’t much care what is coming at us, if its from Carly we’re going to read it (full honesty). So, when I started reading this is hadn’t even read the blurb, so when I started recognizing names and realized we were getting the second generation of Ian and Riley Dare I was beyond thrilled. I love a good second generation continuation of a series but realizing the Dare’s were continuing this way made my heart almost beat out of chest because I have followed this series religiously from the very beginning (heck I created the first published Dare family tree!). I can only say I enjoyed every moment of not only Rainey and Lucas’s love story, but seeing all the “old” couples that first grabbed my heart when they found love through adversity and getting to see that their HEA really did last through all the crap life throws at people as they age together. Carly truly gave us a gift as she continued the Dares into Gen2 and I hope she does this for all the Dare groups up and down the eastern seaboard (wink, wink; nudge, nudge Carly).
Rainey Dare has finally gotten her chance to prove to not only her family but also others in the business community that she can be successful not because of her connections to the famous Dare fortune, but despite them. She and her partner have won a huge contract that could make of break their business, but she needs the help of the one man that makes her heart beat and her body melt, and the one man that “friend-zoned” her ages ago. Lucas Carras has always known that Rainey Dare was a temptation to sin that he would have to resist not just because her brother is his best friend and business partner, but because her parents will never accept a relationship between them. But the more they spent time together planning the big party, working through mysterious catastrophes that seem to sabotage Rainey, the closer they get and soon the thought of resisting their need is no longer something either of them is willing to entertain. Sadly, a secret affair can only remain secret for so long and once their feelings are involved an affair, one that is explosively public is not something either of them wants, because they both want so much more. Can they figure out who is after Rainey and also find a way to be together without tearing apart their other relationships, or will they forever have to choose between those they need and what they want?
I truly loved this story, not just because I was instantly obsessed with getting to know Rainey as adult, but because watching her and Lucas both coming to terms with their fears and desires was a true story of growth and discovery. True chemistry is undeniable and sometimes comes in the most unexpected of places, but when you also have a base of friendship, trust, and years of knowing a man understanding that chemistry adds up to so much more once you allow it free rein in your heart. Rainey spent so many years fighting for her place in her family, never allowing anyone to write her off as simply another vapid little rich girl and has built a thriving and enriched life and business. The one thing she has never found is a love like the one she witnessed between her parents and the others of their generation, filled with deep respect, love and understanding, and she will settle for nothing else for herself. Watching her try to settle for less in order to explore the passion with Lucas was hilarious, because we all knew that simply saying they were going to have an affair was going to blow up in their faces. Lucas has fought tooth and nail to be a better man than he was and then he could have turned out to be. His business with his two best friends is successful and his pride and joy, but he doesn’t do relationships so he won’t allow himself to reach for the one woman he has always wanted. Rainey has always pulled him in and having her in his arms finally releases so much emotion that he has to work through before he can be the man she truly deserves and needs. It was fabulous to watch the explosive chemistry they shared as it slowly settled into a simmer that was very familiar and I can’t wait to see them in future stories as their love is another one that looks to last for the rest of their lives.
Carly gave us the best second generation beginning and I am dying for more so I hope others enjoy it as much as tell her all about it so that she keeps the stories coming. Rainey and Lucas are fabulous characters as are their friends and cousins so I am dying to get to see them all falling in love and their own brand of trouble. The passion and chemistry, wit and conflict, and beautiful writing is classic Carly, so I am thrilled I was given the (surprise) chance to venture into the lives of these all grown-up kids as this continuation of a love that we witnessed so long ago. If you are new to the series, and haven’t read Ian and Riley’s story (Dare to Love), I highly recommend you start way back and the beginning after you read Falling for Trouble, so you can see where it all began and then you will be just as hooked as the rest of us on the Dare World of love.
Rainey Dare has finally gotten her chance to prove to not only her family but also others in the business community that she can be successful not because of her connections to the famous Dare fortune, but despite them. She and her partner have won a huge contract that could make of break their business, but she needs the help of the one man that makes her heart beat and her body melt, and the one man that “friend-zoned” her ages ago. Lucas Carras has always known that Rainey Dare was a temptation to sin that he would have to resist not just because her brother is his best friend and business partner, but because her parents will never accept a relationship between them. But the more they spent time together planning the big party, working through mysterious catastrophes that seem to sabotage Rainey, the closer they get and soon the thought of resisting their need is no longer something either of them is willing to entertain. Sadly, a secret affair can only remain secret for so long and once their feelings are involved an affair, one that is explosively public is not something either of them wants, because they both want so much more. Can they figure out who is after Rainey and also find a way to be together without tearing apart their other relationships, or will they forever have to choose between those they need and what they want?
I truly loved this story, not just because I was instantly obsessed with getting to know Rainey as adult, but because watching her and Lucas both coming to terms with their fears and desires was a true story of growth and discovery. True chemistry is undeniable and sometimes comes in the most unexpected of places, but when you also have a base of friendship, trust, and years of knowing a man understanding that chemistry adds up to so much more once you allow it free rein in your heart. Rainey spent so many years fighting for her place in her family, never allowing anyone to write her off as simply another vapid little rich girl and has built a thriving and enriched life and business. The one thing she has never found is a love like the one she witnessed between her parents and the others of their generation, filled with deep respect, love and understanding, and she will settle for nothing else for herself. Watching her try to settle for less in order to explore the passion with Lucas was hilarious, because we all knew that simply saying they were going to have an affair was going to blow up in their faces. Lucas has fought tooth and nail to be a better man than he was and then he could have turned out to be. His business with his two best friends is successful and his pride and joy, but he doesn’t do relationships so he won’t allow himself to reach for the one woman he has always wanted. Rainey has always pulled him in and having her in his arms finally releases so much emotion that he has to work through before he can be the man she truly deserves and needs. It was fabulous to watch the explosive chemistry they shared as it slowly settled into a simmer that was very familiar and I can’t wait to see them in future stories as their love is another one that looks to last for the rest of their lives.
Carly gave us the best second generation beginning and I am dying for more so I hope others enjoy it as much as tell her all about it so that she keeps the stories coming. Rainey and Lucas are fabulous characters as are their friends and cousins so I am dying to get to see them all falling in love and their own brand of trouble. The passion and chemistry, wit and conflict, and beautiful writing is classic Carly, so I am thrilled I was given the (surprise) chance to venture into the lives of these all grown-up kids as this continuation of a love that we witnessed so long ago. If you are new to the series, and haven’t read Ian and Riley’s story (Dare to Love), I highly recommend you start way back and the beginning after you read Falling for Trouble, so you can see where it all began and then you will be just as hooked as the rest of us on the Dare World of love.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*An advance reader copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
Rainey Dare’s event planning company was awarded the job of planning the Miami Thunder football team’s big anniversary celebration. She wants to do a good job for her dad and her family, and to show the naysayers that she won this job not because of her last name, but on her own merit. Especially after having to rebuild their company’s reputation after a client posted a negative review of them and badmouthed them all over town. With that in mind, she decides to use her brother Jack’s club, Midnight, for her kickoff event.
But with Rainey’s brother scouting new locations in other cities, she will have to work with his best friend and co-owner, Lucas Carras. Lucas has been friends with Jack since they were younger. Lucas is no happier than Rainey is that they have to work together. Years ago, Jack warned Lucas to stay away from his sister. That didn’t have so much to do with Lucas’ past, but more to do with Jack being a protective brother. Lucas is not the same guy as he was all those years ago. If he was, Jack would probably never have gone into business with him.
As Rainey and Lucas start making plans for the kickoff event at Midnight, things start happening. Not just a threatening postcard in the mail, but the attraction between Rainey and Lucas grows. With Lucas’s protective instinct kicking in, it goes into overdrive when a brick gets thrown through Rainey’s office window. As other details fall apart, Lucas is there to help Rainey pick up the pieces and make the Miami Thunder’s celebration one that everyone is talking about for years to come. Along the way, Rainey and Lucas fall for one another, but know that her family won’t be huge fans of their match, so they decide it will only be until the big party at Midnight and that they won’t tell anyone. Best laid plans with good intentions are always found out…
Is it her ex that is so full of himself that he’s sabotaging her, so she comes running back to him? Is it her old client, still out for revenge? Or is it someone closer to home? I’m going to let you find out for yourself…
I can’t tell you how excited I am to be back in the world of the original Dares. I loved Ian and Riley Dare when we were first introduced to them in Dare to Love and now it’s their daughter, Rainey’s turn to find her happily ever after. Wherever Carly Phillips is taking us next with the next generation of the Dare family, I am definitely along for the ride.
Rainey Dare’s event planning company was awarded the job of planning the Miami Thunder football team’s big anniversary celebration. She wants to do a good job for her dad and her family, and to show the naysayers that she won this job not because of her last name, but on her own merit. Especially after having to rebuild their company’s reputation after a client posted a negative review of them and badmouthed them all over town. With that in mind, she decides to use her brother Jack’s club, Midnight, for her kickoff event.
But with Rainey’s brother scouting new locations in other cities, she will have to work with his best friend and co-owner, Lucas Carras. Lucas has been friends with Jack since they were younger. Lucas is no happier than Rainey is that they have to work together. Years ago, Jack warned Lucas to stay away from his sister. That didn’t have so much to do with Lucas’ past, but more to do with Jack being a protective brother. Lucas is not the same guy as he was all those years ago. If he was, Jack would probably never have gone into business with him.
As Rainey and Lucas start making plans for the kickoff event at Midnight, things start happening. Not just a threatening postcard in the mail, but the attraction between Rainey and Lucas grows. With Lucas’s protective instinct kicking in, it goes into overdrive when a brick gets thrown through Rainey’s office window. As other details fall apart, Lucas is there to help Rainey pick up the pieces and make the Miami Thunder’s celebration one that everyone is talking about for years to come. Along the way, Rainey and Lucas fall for one another, but know that her family won’t be huge fans of their match, so they decide it will only be until the big party at Midnight and that they won’t tell anyone. Best laid plans with good intentions are always found out…
Is it her ex that is so full of himself that he’s sabotaging her, so she comes running back to him? Is it her old client, still out for revenge? Or is it someone closer to home? I’m going to let you find out for yourself…
I can’t tell you how excited I am to be back in the world of the original Dares. I loved Ian and Riley Dare when we were first introduced to them in Dare to Love and now it’s their daughter, Rainey’s turn to find her happily ever after. Wherever Carly Phillips is taking us next with the next generation of the Dare family, I am definitely along for the ride.
February 5, 2026
FALLING FOR TROUBLE is the first instalment in Carly Phillips’ contemporary, adult DARE TO FALL erotic, romance series, a next generation set in the author’s interconnected DARE FAMILY series. This is bar owner Lucas Carras, and event planner Rainey Dare’s, daughter of Ian and Riiey Dare (Dare to Love 1) story line.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Rainey and Lucas) FALLING FOR TROUBLE follows the forbidden relationship between bar owner Lucas Carras, and event planner Rainey Dare. Rainey and her team won the bid to plan the Dare family owned Miami Thunder football team’s anniversary celebration but from the outset our heroine finds herself the target of threats that threaten the future of her fledgling company. Holding the event at her brother’s nightclub, the perfect venue to help promote both the club and the team, Rainey finds herself falling for co-owner, and her brother’s best friend, reformed bad boy turned billionaire, Lucas Carras. Lucas has been in lust with his best friend Jack Dare’s sister for as long as he can remember but Lainey is off limits until someone begins to target our story line heroine.
The world building focuses on the preparation for the anniversary celebration, as well as the threats against our story line heroine. From ex lovers, jealous rivalries, and betrayal by someone close, Rainey struggles to make sense of a world determined to take her down.
The relationship between Rainey and Lucas is one of the forbidden. A best friend’s sister affair that Rainey is determined to keep secret, in an effort to prevent the breakdown of a lifelong friendship but our couple find themselves falling in love, and Lucas is hoping for something more. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of familiar, colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Rainey’s siblings: Jack, Hudson, Miles, and their parents Ian and Riley Dare; uncle Alex Dare (Dare to Desire 2); bar co-owner Tristan; Rainey’s business partner Kaylee; PA Ashlynn; and Rainey’s ex Adam Roberts. The requisite evil has many faces.
DARE TO FALL is a fast paced, quick read. A story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, family, friendships and relationships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is captivating and engaging; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are determined and dynamic.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual first person perspectives (Rainey and Lucas) FALLING FOR TROUBLE follows the forbidden relationship between bar owner Lucas Carras, and event planner Rainey Dare. Rainey and her team won the bid to plan the Dare family owned Miami Thunder football team’s anniversary celebration but from the outset our heroine finds herself the target of threats that threaten the future of her fledgling company. Holding the event at her brother’s nightclub, the perfect venue to help promote both the club and the team, Rainey finds herself falling for co-owner, and her brother’s best friend, reformed bad boy turned billionaire, Lucas Carras. Lucas has been in lust with his best friend Jack Dare’s sister for as long as he can remember but Lainey is off limits until someone begins to target our story line heroine.
The world building focuses on the preparation for the anniversary celebration, as well as the threats against our story line heroine. From ex lovers, jealous rivalries, and betrayal by someone close, Rainey struggles to make sense of a world determined to take her down.
The relationship between Rainey and Lucas is one of the forbidden. A best friend’s sister affair that Rainey is determined to keep secret, in an effort to prevent the breakdown of a lifelong friendship but our couple find themselves falling in love, and Lucas is hoping for something more. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top,sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of familiar, colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Rainey’s siblings: Jack, Hudson, Miles, and their parents Ian and Riley Dare; uncle Alex Dare (Dare to Desire 2); bar co-owner Tristan; Rainey’s business partner Kaylee; PA Ashlynn; and Rainey’s ex Adam Roberts. The requisite evil has many faces.
DARE TO FALL is a fast paced, quick read. A story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, family, friendships and relationships, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is captivating and engaging; the romance is seductive and provocative; the characters are determined and dynamic.
copy supplied for review
Review of advance copy received from Author
Twenty-nine year old Rainey Dare, and daughter of Ian Dare....yes THAT Ian Dare, is co-owner of Golden Palm Events with her best friend Kaylee Martin. After being sabotaged by a client, the women are trying to get their party planning company back on track and what better way than to land the celebration for the Miami Thunder football team's 50th anniversary. Rainey wants to earn the job, not get it because of her father.
When Golden Palm Events wins the Miami Thunder anniversary celebration, Rainey and Kaylee can't wait to implement their ideas. The first idea is starting the celebration off at the nightclub Midnight that Rainey's brother Jack co-owns with his best friend, Lucas Carras and silent partner Tristan Hayes. Rainey has always had a crush on Lucas and can't wait to work with him.
Lucas Carras is thirty years old but he had some rough times in his teenage years until he was adopted by the Carras'. Because of this past Lucas has never thought he'd be good enough for Jack's little sister, even if he does have a huge crush on her.
Once the planning starts, Jack has to go out of town for business so Rainey has to spend all of her time with Lucas. The more Rainey and Lucas spend time together, the more their chemistry starts to combust until they finally cross that line. These two realize that their attraction isn't just physical and they come to an understanding that they want to have a real relationship instead of just a secret affair even though Lucas still doesn't believe that he is worthy of her love.
Everything is going wonderful until parts of their planning keep getting sabotaged. Lucas steps in to help save the day, even having to deal with Rainey's ex-Adam. At the same time part of Lucas' past comes back causing a stir. With all the craziness going on, Rainey and Lucas' relationship is found out and all heck breaks out. After the dust settles, and a few punches are thrown, Rainey and Lucas can finally have their happy ever after.
I just loved this steamy brother's best friend romance. Lucas never felt worthy but Rainey helped him see what a great man is really is. I loved watching Rainey try to be her own person instead of banking on the Dare name. I also loved seeing Ian back.....he's always been my favorite Dare! ;)
When Golden Palm Events wins the Miami Thunder anniversary celebration, Rainey and Kaylee can't wait to implement their ideas. The first idea is starting the celebration off at the nightclub Midnight that Rainey's brother Jack co-owns with his best friend, Lucas Carras and silent partner Tristan Hayes. Rainey has always had a crush on Lucas and can't wait to work with him.
Lucas Carras is thirty years old but he had some rough times in his teenage years until he was adopted by the Carras'. Because of this past Lucas has never thought he'd be good enough for Jack's little sister, even if he does have a huge crush on her.
Once the planning starts, Jack has to go out of town for business so Rainey has to spend all of her time with Lucas. The more Rainey and Lucas spend time together, the more their chemistry starts to combust until they finally cross that line. These two realize that their attraction isn't just physical and they come to an understanding that they want to have a real relationship instead of just a secret affair even though Lucas still doesn't believe that he is worthy of her love.
Everything is going wonderful until parts of their planning keep getting sabotaged. Lucas steps in to help save the day, even having to deal with Rainey's ex-Adam. At the same time part of Lucas' past comes back causing a stir. With all the craziness going on, Rainey and Lucas' relationship is found out and all heck breaks out. After the dust settles, and a few punches are thrown, Rainey and Lucas can finally have their happy ever after.
I just loved this steamy brother's best friend romance. Lucas never felt worthy but Rainey helped him see what a great man is really is. I loved watching Rainey try to be her own person instead of banking on the Dare name. I also loved seeing Ian back.....he's always been my favorite Dare! ;)
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Advanced Reader Copy provided.
Carly Phillips kicks off a new Dare series by introducing us to Rainey Dare, daughter of Ian Dare. If you have read the originals from Carly, you will be excited to meet this new generation and their adventures. But if you haven’t already read any of the Dare books, you will enjoy meeting them now.
Rainey Dare is determined to be independent. She is partners in an event planning business and has been chosen to lead the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Miami Thunder. Her presentation was solid and she was proud that they got the bid based on talent and their projected plan. But things start happening that seem to be sabotaging the success of this celebration. Who could be doing this? Is it her ex that holds a grudge but also wants her back?
Rainey’s first stop in planning this event is to her brother, Jack’s club Midnight. Jack has two partners and friends in his business, Tristan and Lucas. Their club will be the venue to their kickoff celebration and Rainey finds herself working closely with Lucas. Yep, forced proximity, forbidden love, and friends to lovers are all part of this great read.
Lucas is Rainey’s brother’s best friend and partner and is about to break “bro-code”. Will it be worth it? He always keeps women at a distance, but Rainey is different. Lucas has a past filled with mistakes and trouble. Can Rainey see that he has changed? Can Jack see that he is good for her? And what about Ian, Rainey’s father, who knows about his past? Will he feel that Lucas isn’t good enough for his daughter?
Rainey had Lucas have chemistry. Their connection is evident. Lucas is a protector. He sees the danger she is in. He sees where he is needed and he is there each time she needs him. He is so much more than what he is afraid others see. Until this moment, “Son, it’s time you start thinking about yourself as the man you are and not the troubled kid you once were.” P. 113. Lucas’ adopted dad gives him the advice that changes the trajectory of our story!
Falling for Trouble is a page turner! Carly Phillips gives us a new generation with a great story filled with friendship, family, love, and a hint of mystery. If you loved Dare to Love when you met Ian, you are sure to love Rainey and Lucas and their love story.
Falling for Trouble is available on KU in Amazon.
Carly Phillips kicks off a new Dare series by introducing us to Rainey Dare, daughter of Ian Dare. If you have read the originals from Carly, you will be excited to meet this new generation and their adventures. But if you haven’t already read any of the Dare books, you will enjoy meeting them now.
Rainey Dare is determined to be independent. She is partners in an event planning business and has been chosen to lead the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Miami Thunder. Her presentation was solid and she was proud that they got the bid based on talent and their projected plan. But things start happening that seem to be sabotaging the success of this celebration. Who could be doing this? Is it her ex that holds a grudge but also wants her back?
Rainey’s first stop in planning this event is to her brother, Jack’s club Midnight. Jack has two partners and friends in his business, Tristan and Lucas. Their club will be the venue to their kickoff celebration and Rainey finds herself working closely with Lucas. Yep, forced proximity, forbidden love, and friends to lovers are all part of this great read.
Lucas is Rainey’s brother’s best friend and partner and is about to break “bro-code”. Will it be worth it? He always keeps women at a distance, but Rainey is different. Lucas has a past filled with mistakes and trouble. Can Rainey see that he has changed? Can Jack see that he is good for her? And what about Ian, Rainey’s father, who knows about his past? Will he feel that Lucas isn’t good enough for his daughter?
Rainey had Lucas have chemistry. Their connection is evident. Lucas is a protector. He sees the danger she is in. He sees where he is needed and he is there each time she needs him. He is so much more than what he is afraid others see. Until this moment, “Son, it’s time you start thinking about yourself as the man you are and not the troubled kid you once were.” P. 113. Lucas’ adopted dad gives him the advice that changes the trajectory of our story!
Falling for Trouble is a page turner! Carly Phillips gives us a new generation with a great story filled with friendship, family, love, and a hint of mystery. If you loved Dare to Love when you met Ian, you are sure to love Rainey and Lucas and their love story.
Falling for Trouble is available on KU in Amazon.
Review of advance copy
Trouble is definitely worth it
Carly Phillips brings us back to the Dare family and I couldn't be happier. FALLING FOR TROUBLE, Dare to Fall #1, was a fantastic read. It was sweet, flirty, fun, with a touch of suspense and drama added. This is a next generation, brother's best friend, opposites attract, protective alpha romance which I easily devoured in hours.
Rainey Dare, the eldest of Ian Dare's children, is busy establishing herself as an events organiser with her best friend Kaylee. She's a strong, fiesty woman who wants to prove she's independent and doesn't need to rely on her family. Lucas Carras was a troubled teenager until he was adopted by the Carras'. Since then he has turned his life around and is co-owner of a nightclub with his two best friends, Jack Dare and Tristan Hayes.
Rainey and Lucas have always been atrracted to each other but haven't made any moves because of Jack, who happens to be Rainey's brother. Rainey is given the opportunity to organise Miami Thunder's 50th Anniversary celebration, and suggests the nightclub as the venue. With Jack away Rainey finds herself working closely with Lucas and the sparks are certainly flying. When threats are made against Rainey Lucas steps into protective alpha mode and the two become even closer. Lucas doesn't believe he's good enough or deserve Rainey, what will she do to convince him otherwise?
I loved FALLING FOR TROUBLE from the moment I started reading it. I enjoyed watching Rainey and Lucas's relationship evolve. Then there is the added sabotage to Rainey's planning and the suspense of who was behind it, just making it even more captivating. Carly delivers romance so well, and she definitely didn't skip it in this one. I can't wait for the next book in the series, Falling For Real .
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
Carly Phillips brings us back to the Dare family and I couldn't be happier. FALLING FOR TROUBLE, Dare to Fall #1, was a fantastic read. It was sweet, flirty, fun, with a touch of suspense and drama added. This is a next generation, brother's best friend, opposites attract, protective alpha romance which I easily devoured in hours.
Rainey Dare, the eldest of Ian Dare's children, is busy establishing herself as an events organiser with her best friend Kaylee. She's a strong, fiesty woman who wants to prove she's independent and doesn't need to rely on her family. Lucas Carras was a troubled teenager until he was adopted by the Carras'. Since then he has turned his life around and is co-owner of a nightclub with his two best friends, Jack Dare and Tristan Hayes.
Rainey and Lucas have always been atrracted to each other but haven't made any moves because of Jack, who happens to be Rainey's brother. Rainey is given the opportunity to organise Miami Thunder's 50th Anniversary celebration, and suggests the nightclub as the venue. With Jack away Rainey finds herself working closely with Lucas and the sparks are certainly flying. When threats are made against Rainey Lucas steps into protective alpha mode and the two become even closer. Lucas doesn't believe he's good enough or deserve Rainey, what will she do to convince him otherwise?
I loved FALLING FOR TROUBLE from the moment I started reading it. I enjoyed watching Rainey and Lucas's relationship evolve. Then there is the added sabotage to Rainey's planning and the suspense of who was behind it, just making it even more captivating. Carly delivers romance so well, and she definitely didn't skip it in this one. I can't wait for the next book in the series, Falling For Real .
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS
February 10, 2026
Falling for Trouble by Carly Phillips is a fast-paced, emotional romance filled with strong family bonds, second chances, and undeniable chemistry.
Lucas’s life begins in heartbreaking circumstances, a drunk father, a drug-addicted mother, and a childhood that leads him into trouble. After entering the foster care system, he’s placed with the Carras family, who eventually adopt him. They give him love, stability, values, and teach him how to make better choices and treat women with respect.
Rainey grows up surrounded by love, with devoted parents and protective brothers. She runs a successful events company, Golden Palm's Events, with her friend Kaylee, and they land a major contract for the Miami Thunder’s 50th anniversary celebration, a team her family is deeply connected to.
The event is scheduled to take place at Midnight, the club co-owned by Lucas, Jack (Rainey’s brother), and their friend Tristan. Before Lucas and Rainey even begin working together, Jack warns Lucas to stay away from his sister, a warning that plants deep insecurities in Lucas and makes him question whether he’s truly good enough for her. Jack is largely absent from the story, traveling in search of new club venues, but his words continue to weigh heavily on Lucas.
As Lucas and Rainey work closely together, the feelings they’ve always shared begin to surface and grow stronger. When incidents start occurring that threaten to sabotage the event, the pressure intensifies, both professionally and emotionally. Rainey is also carrying emotional baggage from a past relationship with a man who treated her poorly, adding another layer of doubt and vulnerability.
What truly stood out was Lucas’s unwavering support of Rainey, the chemistry and playful banter between them, and the strong theme of overcoming past trauma and self-doubt.
A great, quick read with heart, strong family bonds, and a love story that proves your past doesn’t define your future.
Lucas’s life begins in heartbreaking circumstances, a drunk father, a drug-addicted mother, and a childhood that leads him into trouble. After entering the foster care system, he’s placed with the Carras family, who eventually adopt him. They give him love, stability, values, and teach him how to make better choices and treat women with respect.
Rainey grows up surrounded by love, with devoted parents and protective brothers. She runs a successful events company, Golden Palm's Events, with her friend Kaylee, and they land a major contract for the Miami Thunder’s 50th anniversary celebration, a team her family is deeply connected to.
The event is scheduled to take place at Midnight, the club co-owned by Lucas, Jack (Rainey’s brother), and their friend Tristan. Before Lucas and Rainey even begin working together, Jack warns Lucas to stay away from his sister, a warning that plants deep insecurities in Lucas and makes him question whether he’s truly good enough for her. Jack is largely absent from the story, traveling in search of new club venues, but his words continue to weigh heavily on Lucas.
As Lucas and Rainey work closely together, the feelings they’ve always shared begin to surface and grow stronger. When incidents start occurring that threaten to sabotage the event, the pressure intensifies, both professionally and emotionally. Rainey is also carrying emotional baggage from a past relationship with a man who treated her poorly, adding another layer of doubt and vulnerability.
What truly stood out was Lucas’s unwavering support of Rainey, the chemistry and playful banter between them, and the strong theme of overcoming past trauma and self-doubt.
A great, quick read with heart, strong family bonds, and a love story that proves your past doesn’t define your future.
March 14, 2026
𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁:
If your looking for a fast paced, steamy, brother’s best friends off limits romance let me tell you this may be it. I liked the forced proximity from the party planner and nightclub owner angle and how they partnered to work on her big event. Also let’s take a moment for a hunk of an MMC who has always had a crush on our FMC but respectfully kept his distance. He just wants to protect her and help, and she just wants to prove she’s independent and can do things herself, love this pairing. So much chemistry! Definitely check this out when the audio releases on March 17th.
𝐒𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐬:
Rainey never wants to contribute her success to nepotism, so when she launched her corporate party planning business with her bestie it was important she paved her own way without her family’s help. She just secured her biggest contract yet, it’s hosting the Miami Thunders football team’s 50th anniversary celebration. This is her moment to prove she can do it.
Her first stop is to see if the nightclub her brother co-owns would be willing to be her venue. Lucky for her, Jack (her brother) and Lucas (his best friend) agree. But her brother is heading to scout locations out of state for their expansion and that leaves her dealing directly with Lucas.
Lucas has always had a thing for Jack’s sister but out of respect for their friendship he’s kept his distance. However working closely with Rainey is storing things up. Then add in the fact someone is messing with her, he can’t help but get involved.
𝙁𝙖𝙫 𝙌𝙪𝙤𝙩𝙚:
“I fought my way to being a good guy. I’m going to fight for her.”
𝑳𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒓𝒚 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒍𝒍 𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒅:
* Corporate Party Planner x Night Club Owner
* Business Partner & Best Friend’s Sister
* Protective Billionaire Hero
* Secret Relationship - Only a Fling
* Someone is Sabotaging & Threatening Her
* Working Together
* He Runs Interference w/ Her Ex
* Dual POV
💕🏈🥂🌹💕🏈🥂🌹💕
https://www.instagram.com/p/DV1xcyuEh...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling for Trouble is the first book in the Dare to Fall series by Carly Phillips. We are getting the story of the daughter of Ian Dare who was one of Phillips previous heroes.
Rainey Dare is 29 and co-owns an event planning business with her best friend Kaylee Martin. Golden Palms Events was doing great and then a bad review from a client caused a lot of issues that the women are still trying to recover from. They have recently bid on the Miami Thunder's 50th anniversary celebration and while they hope to get it, they know the fact that Rainey's family is involved with the Thunder could cause problems.
Lucas Carras is one of Rainey's brother, Jack's, best friends and he co-owns a bar/nightclub Midnight with Jack and their silent partner Tristan. He had a rough childhood and ended up in the foster system. He was one of the lucky ones who ended up with a placement where the couple wanted to adopt a teenager. The support and love he has received from his parents have changed the course of his life.
Once Rainey and Kaylee win the job, they want to start working on ideas immediately. One of the things they want to do is use Midnight for one of the events. With Jack out of town scouting locations for expansion, that leaves Lucas to meet with Rainey to plan. While that might sound easy, both Rainey and Lucas are fighting their attraction to the other. Will spending so much time in close proximity change things between them? Will they finally give in?
This was a great story and I enjoyed both Rainey and Lucas and how their relationship evolved. Add in the sabotage that is happening with the party and the adds another layer to things. I'm already looking forward to the next book in this series. It should be a good one!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Rainey Dare is 29 and co-owns an event planning business with her best friend Kaylee Martin. Golden Palms Events was doing great and then a bad review from a client caused a lot of issues that the women are still trying to recover from. They have recently bid on the Miami Thunder's 50th anniversary celebration and while they hope to get it, they know the fact that Rainey's family is involved with the Thunder could cause problems.
Lucas Carras is one of Rainey's brother, Jack's, best friends and he co-owns a bar/nightclub Midnight with Jack and their silent partner Tristan. He had a rough childhood and ended up in the foster system. He was one of the lucky ones who ended up with a placement where the couple wanted to adopt a teenager. The support and love he has received from his parents have changed the course of his life.
Once Rainey and Kaylee win the job, they want to start working on ideas immediately. One of the things they want to do is use Midnight for one of the events. With Jack out of town scouting locations for expansion, that leaves Lucas to meet with Rainey to plan. While that might sound easy, both Rainey and Lucas are fighting their attraction to the other. Will spending so much time in close proximity change things between them? Will they finally give in?
This was a great story and I enjoyed both Rainey and Lucas and how their relationship evolved. Add in the sabotage that is happening with the party and the adds another layer to things. I'm already looking forward to the next book in this series. It should be a good one!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
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