The Fall of Summer

Reckoning Duet #1

by Rebecca Dale

THE FALL OF SUMMER
Book One of The Reckoning Duet
By Rebecca Dale

When her father locks away a powerful man, Summer Miller becomes the one marked to pay the price.

The sheriff, Jacob Darnell, swears he’ll protect her. But he has always blurred the line between duty and desire. His badge is her shield. His house, her prison. His touch, the most dangerous risk of all.

In Rosefield, every promise hides a lie. Every smile conceals a weapon.
And the closer Summer comes to escape, the deeper betrayal cuts.

Because love isn’t salvation.
It’s obsession.

And vengeance isn’t the only thing waiting in the dark.

This isn’t a fairytale. It’s a reckoning.

Genres: Dark Romance, Romantic Suspense, Forced Proximity, Psychological Thriller

366 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 26, 2026

About the author

I’m Rebecca Dale, a UK-based author writing dark romance and psychological thrillers. I’m drawn to the raw, messy sides of human emotion—obsession, trauma, desire, and the thin line between love and ruin. My work blends small-town grit with morally grey characters and slow-burn tension, the kind of stories that stay with you long after you close the book.

My debut novel, The Fall of Summer, introduces the haunting world of Rosefield, Montana, kicking off The Reckoning Duet. I love exploring power shifts, emotional conflict, and the kind of romance that isn’t pretty—but hits hard.

When I’m not writing, I’m researching, plotting future books, or connecting with readers who share my love of darker, more intense stories. Book Two, The Ashes of Summer, is currently in progress.

Reviews

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow this book was such a great read! I at first thought Jacob was an asshole for how he treated Summer, but as the story continues he grew on me more. Uhh and that ending…just tore my heart out!! Can’t wait for the next one!

[Chelsea Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, just wow… As someone new to dark romance, I wasn’t sure what to expect — but this blew me away. So many books lean on smut with no real plot, but this one is the complete opposite. It’s packed with spice, but every scene actually deepens the story and the characters. Once you start reading, you will not want to put it down.

Jacob is the kind of man you’ll hate… until you suddenly don’t. And Summer’s arc? Absolutely incredible.

A fantastic read from start to finish, and that cliffhanger had me screaming. I can’t wait for Book Two — please, please, please let me ARC it again!

[Keri · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the get go, this book drew me in.

At the begining I was not a big big fan of Jacob, he came across as a bit of a bully and was really rude to Summer but as the book went on his character grew on me and in the end I fell in love with his character.

Jacob amd Summer's relationship was written so beautifully and I loved how it development.

This book brought out so many strong emotions for me.
There were parts that had second guessing certain characters intentions.

The ending had me in a spiral and I couldn't help but cry as i pictured in my mind the scene of Jacob reaching for the helicopter to get to Summer but never got her.

I can't wait for book 2, I need to know how Jacob and Summer's relationship ends.

Highly recommend, a definite 5⭐️ read for me.

[Faye Ameen · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review: I devoured this book in under 24 hours because I genuinely couldn’t put it down. It has a little bit of everything—romance, spice, suspense, and mystery—and it all works so well together. I went in fully expecting to hate Jacob because the author paints him as so aggressive at first, but somehow you end up loving him despite his completely unhinged tendencies. I’m a sucker for a morally gray man, what can I say? And that cliffhanger? Absolutely criminal. I almost wanted to hurl my Kindle across the room—I did not expect it to end there. Now I’m desperately waiting for book two because I need to know how this story finishes.

[Jemma Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so grateful to have recevied this as an ARC read.

This book had me so engrossed I finished it in under 24 hours. The writing style is so well paced and flowed brilliantly that it kept me engaged and not wanting to put it down. The dual POV is something that I love in a book and this was no exception! Our MMC is obsessive and controlling and a man in uniform! what is not to love!! The FMCs emotions were explained so well throughout the story that it really helped me connect with her.
I loved all the twists and turns throughout and was shouting out loud at the ending.
This is a dark romance that has a good level of spice but also a good plot to keep it all together. Looking forward to book 2!

[Angelique · Rating 5 out of 5]

100/10 stars!! I received this as an ARC and I didn’t pay attention to the fact that there’s a second book! So not only is Book 1 not officially out until January 2026 but then I have to wait for the second one 😭

I BINGED this book in less than 24 hours. It grabbed my attention instantly and consumed me. You start off hating Jacob but the dual POV makes you really love him and see why he is the way he is. I also like crazy possessive red flag men though so my taste is unusual 🤷🏻‍♀️😅

Ways it’s like Haunting Adeline:
- stalker-ish romance
- spicy scenes
- sex trafficking
- unexpected plot twists
- morally gray

Ways that it’s not like HA:
- no book boyfriend compares to Daddy Zade. Periodt.
- could use more smut & freakier smut. (Ex: HA gun scene, iykyk)
- MMC is a Sheriff which adds a different twist that I loved!
- not as dark or triggering
- Stockholm syndrome kink ftw

Overall, excellent book and feel so grateful to have been given an advanced copy!!! I hope I can get book 2 as an ARC too because that cliffhanger made me almost throw my kindle! 😩😭 Dark romance readers, add this to your TBR!

[Jocylena Beck · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t find the book bad in any sense — in fact, I genuinely enjoyed Rebecca Dale’s writing style. She has a way of weaving emotion into her characters so naturally that you feel their struggles and hopes without ever weighing down the storyline. The pacing stays steady, the feelings stay believable, and the narrative never loses momentum.

I went in having fully read the trigger warnings and didn’t have any issues with them. What I did find, though, was that the MMC just came across a bit blah to me in certain areas. That’s completely personal preference — it might’ve even tapped into a trigger I didn’t realize I had until I saw it presented in this context. It didn’t ruin the experience, but it did slightly affect my connection to him.

Overall, this was still a beautifully written, emotionally resonant story that I’m glad I had the chance to read early. Rebecca Dale knows how to craft relatable characters and heartfelt moments, and that shines through on every page.

Thank you for the ARC! 💛

[Worakarn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay let me tell you guys something... you NEED to add this to your TBR. The mystery, the spice, the tension and the depth of manipulation. Yeah, it goes deep. Jacob Darnell has layers that give me whiplash but honestly if he told me to bark I would. There will be no spoilers in this review but what I can say is you'll be hooked from chapter one as the details and description that goes into the prospectives and storyline is exhilarating 💋

I really felt for Summer like baby girl was struggling and I cant blame her for feeling the way she felt because it makes sense. Jacob himself is a big red flag like its larger than the size of Europe as he's dark, possessive and obsessive to the point where he's coming across as a sociopath and borderline psycho. It's pretty much his way or the highway (that leads back to him). If you want something dark and well Jacob Darnell then go and read this 😉

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨

“Every bullet I fire will be for her.
Every son of a bitch I take down will be for her.
Every decision I make, every law I bend, every life I end—all of it, hers.”

Where do I even begin without spilling all the tea?!
The tropes:

•Burn the world for her
•Possessive and obsessive MMC
•Small Town, Dark Secrets

Theses were the 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻
Also please check your triggers. This one was heavy on some topics.
This book had me on my toes and hooked the absolute whole time!!! The amount of love-hate for the sheriff was strong, I don’t doubt everyone will feel this!!! 🖤 Summer’s willingness to do the right thing tugged at my heartstrings.🖤 Am I excited there is a second book, absolutely. Am I also annoyed? You’re damn right I am!🤣🤣🤣

Thank you Rebecca for taking us along for this ride, ready for book two please!🖤

[Josee Langlais · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to read this book and let me tell you… it took me for a RIDE!
First, it was such a good story and I can’t believe it finished the way it did. That second book better come sooner rather than later because that is pure torture

Second, the characters? Oh how I hated Jacob! Up until I was in love with him. Summer? She annoyed me a bit and I wanted to shake the living daylights outta the girl!

Third, that storyline was absolutely chefs kiss. I loved the journey it took me on and the twists and the turns. I found myself SCREAMING at the book!

Highly recommend!

[Kamil Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fall of Summer is dark, intense, and deeply unsettling in the best way. This isn’t a love story—it’s a slow descent into obsession, control, and betrayal.
Summer Miller is trapped by choices that aren’t her own, and Jacob Darnell—the sheriff sworn to protect her—is just as dangerous as the threats closing in. The tension between them is sharp and suffocating, blurring every line between safety and captivity. Love here isn’t safe or redemptive; it’s consuming and sharp-edged.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca, thank you for this beautiful opportunity to be an arc reader for you! Ma’am your writing style is a chef’s kiss. The story line & chemistry easily a 5 star read. The spice level 🫦🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. I so relate to the FMC. There were so many quotes that I hi-lighted in my brain’s wiring! But, there was a few that broke me too. While reading this story I have laughed, cried, screamed, & even cussed. I want to return to the little town! Can’t wait for what you have in stored for us next!

[Jenna Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
The fall of Summer had me hooked from the start. I could picture the world and the setting really fast and early on in the book. I was excited to keep reading!
Summer was an interesting character and I really felt for her throughout the book. I could feel her emotions throughout which made her relatable.
At the beginning I definitely didnt like Jacob but with that being said I loved seeing the relationship between the two of them as the story unfolded.
The pacing in the book was really well done and it flowed beautifully which made it so much harder to put down.
There was some spice in this book but it still kept the plot nice.
This book was filled with Choas and I devoured it! The ending had me Screaming and I need to read book 2 ASAP! That cliffhanger has me going and I need to find out whats going to happen next!
I highly recommend everyone add this to your tbrs it was a ride!
Thank you so much Rebecca for writing this book 💕 Cant wait to read book 2 !

[Jessica Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy plot twist, this book had me on the edge of my seat!! In the beginning totally despised Jacob but throughout the book I began to fall in love with his character once everything came to light. I’m so upset that I have to wait for the second book to see what happens, but can’t wait for it to come out.

Thank you for the privilege of being an ARC reader 😁

5⭐️ 2🌶️

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

“People will believe anything if the Devil’s wearing a uniform”.

Really? That’s where it ends?!

Deliciously dark. I just know this book is going to take off with the dark romance girlies. I couldn’t put it down.

So many dark romance books fall short on the plot but not this one, this one holds its own in every element.

Thankyou for the ARC, I hope I’m lucky enough to get an ARC for the next one because I’m already absolutely dying to read it.

[Cameron Kuhl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book absolutely messed with my head… in the best way.

It’s dark, uncomfortable, obsessive, and emotionally heavy. There’s this constant feeling of unease that never lets you relax—and I mean that as a compliment.

The MMC is not soft. He’s controlling, possessive, and morally gray in a way that makes you constantly question how you feel. Watching Summer change throughout the story was heartbreaking. You can feel her fear, her confusion, and the way she slowly starts to disappear just to survive. It hit hard.

What really got me was the psychological side of this book. The way fear, control, longing, and attachment blur together felt disturbingly real. This story doesn’t sugarcoat anything, and it doesn’t try to make you comfortable—and I loved that.

And just when you think you know where it’s going… nope. I was completely fooled. The ending had me staring at the wall, questioning everything I thought I wanted for these characters.

Final thoughts: dark, intense, emotional, and impossible to put down. If you love obsessive MMCs, messy emotions, psychological tension, and books that leave you needing the next one immediately… this one will consume you. I’m already desperate for book two. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was good. It was dark! But definitely my sort of thriller, keeps you on your toes! I won’t post any spoilers which is the best way to describe. I like to go into book blind, so I have no idea what I was going to expect and now, I sadly have to wait until her 2nd book!
I truly disliked Jacob for a long time. But by about mid book… I started to like him! And really rooting for both Jacob and Summer!

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was amazing, truly utterly cannot wait for 2nd book!
Jacob and Summer 🥰🥰

Dark, moody, forced proximity, a hot sheriff...what else does it need..😂🖤🖤

[Morialyn Mudd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was exceptionally well-written—keeping you on your toes is truly an understatement. Rebecca masterfully brings her characters to life in a way that’s both captivating and emotionally immersive. I genuinely felt as though I was part of the story—the emotions, the heart-racing moments, and those scenes that made it impossible to put the book down.

At first, I couldn’t stand Jacob, but as the story unfolded, I grew to truly appreciate and even love his character. Every character has depth and purpose, and Summer—oh my, what an incredible presence she brings to the story.

Rebecca has crafted a novel that lingers long after the final page.

I couldn’t be more thrilled that this was my first ARC book to read. I’m already counting down to the second book, and finishing this one was such an amazing way to start the new year. I’m truly honored that this was the first book I completed this year.

[MissMaaylie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I devoured this book in less than 24 hours! 😳
The story is amazing and easy enough to follow.
You get thrown into the plot instantly and it has you hooked all the way to the end!
I loved the character development on both Summer and Jacob, and the dual POV made this book so much better.
Jacob is a dark character who you get more understanding for the more you read, and by the end of the book you are in love with him!

Thank you to Rebecca for this ARC 🫶🏽

I recommend this book to everyone who loves a dark romance with a possesive MMC who would burn the world for the woman he loves 🔥🖤

[Amber Todd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Going into The Fall of Summer, I thought I knew what kind of dark romance I was signing up for. I was wrong. This book doesn’t just flirt with morally gray, it drags you into the shadows and dares you to stay there.

From the very first pages, Rebecca Dale establishes an atmosphere that feels heavy, dangerous, and emotionally suffocating. Summer is trapped not just by circumstances, but by the people who are supposed to protect her. Jacob Darnell, the sheriff, is one of those characters you can’t easily categorize: protector, captor, lover, predator. The story intentionally makes you uncomfortable, and that’s part of its power. You’re meant to question every motive, every touch, every promise.

At first, Jacob feels like the clear villain, and then Benny arrives and seems to offer a contrast, something softer and safer. But without spoiling anything, the book does a brilliant job of slowly unraveling those assumptions. The theme of “nothing is as it appears” runs deep here, and it kept me second-guessing everyone all the way through.

I will say the pacing was uneven for me. The first half dragged at times, spending a lot of energy establishing the claustrophobic dynamic and repeating certain emotional beats. But once the story hit the midpoint, it took off. The second half is where everything clicks into place: the twists sharpen, the stakes rise, and the psychological tension becomes genuinely addictive. I flew through those final chapters.

This isn’t a romance in the traditional sense. It’s obsession, power, fear, desire, and betrayal tangled together in something messy and unsettling. If you go in expecting swoony love and healthy relationships, you will be disappointed. But if you want a dark, twisted, emotionally intense story that isn’t afraid to cross lines, this delivers.

I’m still not entirely sure how I feel about this book, but after that cliffhanger, I'm ready for book 2.

[Heather Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

the book was so amazing definitely check your trigger warnings Jacob is dark but you understand him and love him by the end of the book the way it ended I need book 2 like yesterday the character development for both characters chefs kiss amazing the plot was easy to follow and drew you in I was glued to my kindle with this story and screamed because of the way it ended wanting the next book immediately she is an amazing author and I'm so thankful to have been able to ark read this

[Always D · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first started reading it, I wasn’t sure about it. I was really upset about the Jacob character. As the book went on I was sucked in and couldn’t put it down.

Cannot wait to see how book 2 unravels Jacob/Summer relationship.

[Jaqueline Doldersum · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very exited, when I got the chance, to read this book.
And it didn't disappoint.
You get sucked into the book, from the beginning until the end.
For me, the book was an emotional roalercoaster.
If you like morely grey predator, age gap, touch her and you will ..., burn the world for you, obsession disguisted as protection.
Then put it on your TBR.
The book comes out on January 26th.
I can't wait for book nr. 2

[darkreadswithnalieee · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚠️⚠️Contain major spoilers

The Fall of Summer by Rebecca Dale is a dark, unsettling, and addictive psychological romance that slowly tightens its grip on you until you don’t even realize how deep you’ve fallen into it. This book is layered with danger, obsession, fear, and desire—and it thrives in that uncomfortable space where safety and control blur together.
The story opens with Summer’s life already fractured. Her father takes on a dangerous criminal case, and the consequences ripple through her entire family. Soon, men connected to the case are watching her, following her, and threatening to take her. From the very beginning, there’s a constant sense of unease—Summer is never truly safe.
Jacob, the MMC, has been a looming presence in Summer’s life for years. His attention has always felt wrong: lingering looks, stolen touches, and quiet stalking that leave Summer unsettled and afraid. When Jacob offers to take her into his home to “protect” her, Summer refuses—openly telling her parents that he scares her and that they’re forcing her to live with her stalker. But despite her fear, she’s sent to live with him anyway.
From that moment on, the tone of the book shifts into something deeply disturbing and compelling. Jacob is possessive, controlling, dominating, and unapologetic about it. As a sheriff, he believes he’s untouchable—and he uses that power freely. He tells Summer outright that she belongs to him forever.
What makes this story hit so hard is watching Summer change. Living with Jacob drains her. She becomes quieter, smaller, and hollowed out—like an empty shell of the girl she used to be. You can feel her fear in the way she moves through the house, the way she speaks, and the way she constantly tries to exist without taking up space.
Then comes Benny.
During Summer’s birthday outing, she meets Benny, a singer who sees her—not as something to own, but as someone who deserves space. Dancing with him is the first time Summer feels truly happy in a long time, and Jacob’s reaction to seeing her smile is pure rage.
The contrast between Jacob and Benny is one of the most powerful parts of the book. Jacob is described as a storm—a threat, a cage, something that consumes and burns. Benny, on the other hand, feels like freedom. With him, Summer feels safe, seen, and able to breathe again. Those moments are incredibly important because Summer’s entire life is ruled by fear, and Benny represents the first real glimpse of peace.
The book doesn’t shy away from the psychological complexity of Summer’s situation. Her fear of Jacob slowly shifts into desire, showing clear signs of Stockholm syndrome—something that feels disturbingly realistic given her circumstances. One of the most chilling aspects of the story is watching her internal conflict as hate turns into longing, as the cage begins to feel familiar… even wanted.
And just when you think you understand where the story is going, everything explodes.
The reveal that Benny isn’t Benny at all—but Kurt Moore, the brother of Jackson Moore (the man Summer’s father put away)—was shocking and brilliantly executed. I truly wanted to believe Benny was real, that he would save her, and that made the twist hurt even more. Rebecca Dale wrote him so convincingly that I was completely fooled.
When Summer is finally taken by Jackson, the stakes skyrocket. Jacob’s reaction—his violent, destructive rage as he searches for her—is chaotic, terrifying, and intense. Watching how far he’s willing to go for Summer is equal parts alarming and compelling.
I finished this book absolutely stunned—and desperate for book two. The ending left me reeling, questioning everything I thought I wanted for Summer. I started this book fully against Jacob, and somehow, by the end, I found myself thinking… maybe this is the man she’ll choose. And that alone says everything about how powerful and manipulative this story is.
Final thoughts: The Fall of Summer is dark, emotionally heavy, and impossible to look away from. If you enjoy obsessive MMCs, psychological tension, morally gray characters, and stories that make you uncomfortable in the best way, this book will consume you. I am beyond ready for book two.
⭐ Highly recommended for dark romance readers who aren’t afraid of messy, complicated stories. ⭐
@rebeccadale_author

[Gwen Shafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off let me say I am still not ok. The ending to this book has me still holding my breath and not ok by a long shot. I really didn't know what I was going into with this book. The description sounded amazing, but it was nothing compared to what I actually read. This had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. I read it within about 2 hours it was that gripping. I could not put it down I had to know what was going to happen. But was literally left hanging.
Summer is the daughter of a prosecutor who puts someone dangerous away which in turn puts her in danger. She is literally trapped not only by the people who are supposed to protect but by the people out to hurt her. Jacob Darnell is the sheriff and wants to protect her. But at first it seems like he is stalking her. She doesn't understand what is going on and is completely and utterly scared of him. But something happens and she ends up having to move in with him literally against her will. That is when things really start to escalate between these two. This is when you turn the pages as fast as you can trying to figure out what is going on happen. You are seeing and feeling every single emotion that Summer is going through, every high every low. It is so well written you literally feel like you are right there inside her mind feeling everything she is feeling. Jacob is a sheriff, a man in power, a man in uniform. He is obsessive, controlling and wants no one but Summer and will do whatever is needed to protect her. But is it love or obsession? This was a dark twisted emotionally intense suspense filled page turning dark romance. It was a storyline that had me gripped until the very freaking end and left me hanging. That ending still has me on edge and I don't know if i can wait for the next one to come out. I have to know what happens. This is the first book I have read from Rebecca and let me tell you she has gained a lifelong fan of her work. I have never read a book that had me gripped like this one did. It was uniquely written it was intense but at the same time suspenseful with a little mystery. You see the good side of the characters and the bad side of the characters and wonder which side is going to win at the end. The plot is off the charts amazing with twists and turns you don't see coming from a mile away.
If you are wanting a book that will have you on the edge of your seat turning the pages faster than you have ever read a book before wanting more and more than you are actually getting with the best plot and twists and turns that you clearly couldn't even imagine coming grab this one. One of my favorites so far for 2026.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tressa Heigel · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off - THAT ENDING?? Way to kick a girl while she’s down 😂 I was aching for just any tendril of resolution but, damn. That’s what I call a cliffhanger.

While this book was seemingly quick-paced, it also felt sort of slow when it came to revealing the big, overarching conflict. Summer and Jacob definitely go through a lot, and every time you assume you’re reading about the main problem, you’re reminded that nope, there’s still one more unresolved big-bad lurking in the shadows.

What I liked:

💥 The burn-down-the-world vibes. Is Jacob a beautiful, unhinged, vile bastard? Yes. But will he do everything possible to protect Summer from the big-bad in the world? Also, yes. This is the first time I’ve legitimately hated a MMC while simultaneously appreciating him. Does it make me feel sort of wrong? Absolutely. All credit to Rebecca, who has managed to create a true morally-black anti-hero, and then gave him a tiny sprinkling of morality so that we’d be rooting for him in the end.

👯‍♀️ Summer’s girl tribe! Constance and Adelaide were the definition of soul sisters. Even after being semi-estranged, they dropped everything to bring Summer back into the fold and save her from what they (correctly) thought was a toxic situation. Those girls never stopped fighting for her, even when their own lives were at stake, and something about that type of friendship is really beautiful.

🫣 Complicated, realistic characters. This may have been the first series I’ve read where the grey/black areas don’t eventually evolve into sweetness bred by love, wrapping everything up with a cute, rational bow. Stockholm syndrome? Throw it in there. A small town that overlooks DV? Not unusual in real life, why shouldn’t it be in a book? A FMC who doesn’t grow into her strength with abrupt physical prowess? Not every girl is a badass, let’s keep it real.

Yes, there’s a lot that’s probably controversial to people, but that just made me appreciate the break in trend more. It was like a dark romance palate-cleanser and triggered a lot of introspection.

Overall, I think this was a great debut for Rebecca Dale! The story is multi-faceted, the spice didn’t distract from the story, and you’re really exposed to the character’s mental and emotional chaos. If you’re a fan of overbearing (slightly deranged) men in power and timid FMCs who survive above all odds, this is for you!

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! This dark romantic suspense gets under your skin from the very first page and keeps you hooked until the end. Rebecca Dale's narrative style creates a dark atmosphere and builds suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat from the outset and makes you constantly question your own judgment. The plot is fast-paced, action-packed, intense and brimming with pent-up emotions, angst, violence, suspense, danger, drama, unexpected twists and spicy love scenes, and has forced proximity, age gap, stalker hero, heroine in danger and "touch her and die" tropes.
Jacob is a real antihero whom you love to hate. He is obsessed, possessive, unhinged, dominant and scary, but the more you immerse yourself in the book, the more he grows on you, despite his violent tendencies.
Summer is an ambivalent heroine. On the one hand, she is defiant, wants to break out of her cage and hates Jacob, but on the other hand, she feels drawn to his dark side, submissive and feels safe with him. Their hate-love relationship is emotionally loaded and full of power exchange, push-and-pull dynamics, thrilling tension and sizzling chemistry.
The story ends with a dramatic cliffhanger, and I am already looking forward to the sequel.

When Summer Miller's father puts notorious human trafficker Jackson Moore behind bars, her life is in danger and her parents place her in the care of the powerful, intimidating Sheriff Jacob Darnell, who has been stalking her for years.
Jacob wants Summer for himself, keeps her in his house like a prisoner and restricts her social contacts. He is abusive and controlling, but nevertheless, the man Summer spent years running from and loathed becomes her savior and the one she falls in love with…

If you like gritty and emotionally charged romantic suspense novels with obsessed antiheroes, conflicted heroines, action, danger and spice, you‘ll love this book!

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Mala · Rating 5 out of 5]

he Fall of Summer is one of those stories that pulls you in from the very first chapter and refuses to let go long after you’ve turned the final page. Rebecca Dale delivers a dark, intense, and emotionally devastating romance that isn’t afraid to venture into uncomfortable territory, desire, trauma, and obsession included.

Summer is a complex, broken, and deeply human heroine. Her voice feels raw and real, full of vulnerability and nuance, and it’s impossible not to empathize with her, even when she makes questionable choices. Opposite her is Jacob, a morally gray, dominant, and fiercely protective character whose presence is overwhelming. Their relationship is anything but safe or simple, it’s explosive, tense, and charged with a chemistry that crackles in every shared scene.

What captivated me most was the way the author builds the connection between them. This isn’t an idealized romance; it’s one born from wounds, silence, and shadows. Every interaction between Summer and Jacob carries weight, unspoken emotions, lingering looks, and a constant tension that keeps the story balanced on a knife’s edge.

Rebecca Dale’s prose is dark and evocative, creating an atmosphere steeped in melancholy, danger, and desire. Some moments ache, others unsettle, and a few will leave you breathless. This is not a book that aims to please, it aims to make you feel, to challenge you, and to pull you deep into its characters’ emotional worlds.

The Fall of Summer is a must-read for lovers of dark romance, intense storytelling, and deeply flawed characters who love each other in complicated, messy ways. It’s a novel that lingers, that leaves a mark, and that firmly establishes Rebecca Dale as an author unafraid to explore the darkest corners of love.

[Emelia Hendrix · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked The Fall of Summer up on Kindle Unlimited after reading the description, and wow this one pulled me in way deeper than I expected.

From the very first chapter, there’s this constant feeling of tension hanging over everything. Rosefield doesn’t feel like a safe small town, it feels claustrophobic, like everyone is watching and every “kind” gesture has strings attached. I loved how Rebecca Dale created that uneasy atmosphere where you’re never quite sure who to trust.

Summer really got to me. She’s not just some helpless girl waiting to be saved, she’s scared, yes, but also stubborn and quietly strong. You can feel how trapped she is, not just physically but emotionally. Watching her try to figure out who’s protecting her and who’s controlling her had me flipping pages fast.

And Jacob… whew. He’s complicated in the best and worst ways. That blurred line between protector and possessive? It made their dynamic intense and honestly uncomfortable at times, but I think that’s exactly the point. This isn’t a sweet romance. It’s messy, obsessive, and dangerous. The kind where you keep thinking, should I even be rooting for this? Those morally gray vibes kept me hooked.

The story leans more into psychological suspense and dark romance than anything fluffy. There’s betrayal, secrets, and that constant sense that something bad is just around the corner. A few twists genuinely surprised me, and the ending definitely left me needing book two ASAP.

If you like dark small-town drama, forbidden/complicated romance, and stories where love feels just as threatening as the villains, this one’s worth checking out.

Definitely glad I found it on KU, I’ll be diving into the next book right away.