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The Reckoning Duet #1
The Fall of Summer
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.
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.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 26, 2026
About the author
Rebecca Dale
2 books197 followersI’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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
January 5, 2026
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!
December 4, 2025
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!
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!
December 5, 2025
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.
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.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2026
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.
December 21, 2025
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!
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!
January 27, 2026
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!
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!
April 6, 2026
4.5⭐️'s 3🌶
Summer is the daughter of the DA… the very man responsible for putting away Jackson Moore—a human trafficker and murderer—for a very long time.
But justice comes with a price.
Because now, Summer is the target of Moore’s men, all of them out for revenge.
Enter Sheriff Jacob Darnell.
A man no one wants to cross.
And a man who has always made Summer uneasy.
He shows up wherever she is.
Scares off her dates.
Watches her just a little too closely.
To Summer, he’s intense. Overbearing. Unsettling.
Until the night her parents make a desperate decision—handing her over to the one man who might actually be able to keep her alive.
I’ll be honest, I went into this expecting something dark and spicy—especially given the hype I’d seen floating around.
And yes… it absolutely delivers on both fronts.
Dark? Without a doubt.
Spicy? Let’s just say I felt personally attacked in the best way 🔥
But what I didn’t expect was the sheer beauty of Rebecca Dale’s writing. At times, it reads like poetry—lyrical, haunting, and completely immersive.
There’s a moment in chapter sixty-eight—a seemingly simple breakfast scene—that perfectly captures Summer’s unraveling mindset. It’s subtle, clever, and honestly one of my favourite pieces of writing in the book.
The Fall of Summer is brutal and raw.
It’s obsessive, contradictory, and emotionally consuming.
It drags you through themes of control, survival, submission, protection, heartbreak, and longing—sometimes all at once—and doesn’t let you catch your breath.
This book is dark, hungry, and unapologetically intense… but also strangely beautiful.
And that ending?
INope! No, no!
I need book two. Immediately.
Because right now, I feel like I’ve been left in Rosefield’s darkness with no closure—and I’m absolutely desperate for more.
Summer is the daughter of the DA… the very man responsible for putting away Jackson Moore—a human trafficker and murderer—for a very long time.
But justice comes with a price.
Because now, Summer is the target of Moore’s men, all of them out for revenge.
Enter Sheriff Jacob Darnell.
A man no one wants to cross.
And a man who has always made Summer uneasy.
He shows up wherever she is.
Scares off her dates.
Watches her just a little too closely.
To Summer, he’s intense. Overbearing. Unsettling.
Until the night her parents make a desperate decision—handing her over to the one man who might actually be able to keep her alive.
I’ll be honest, I went into this expecting something dark and spicy—especially given the hype I’d seen floating around.
And yes… it absolutely delivers on both fronts.
Dark? Without a doubt.
Spicy? Let’s just say I felt personally attacked in the best way 🔥
But what I didn’t expect was the sheer beauty of Rebecca Dale’s writing. At times, it reads like poetry—lyrical, haunting, and completely immersive.
There’s a moment in chapter sixty-eight—a seemingly simple breakfast scene—that perfectly captures Summer’s unraveling mindset. It’s subtle, clever, and honestly one of my favourite pieces of writing in the book.
The Fall of Summer is brutal and raw.
It’s obsessive, contradictory, and emotionally consuming.
It drags you through themes of control, survival, submission, protection, heartbreak, and longing—sometimes all at once—and doesn’t let you catch your breath.
This book is dark, hungry, and unapologetically intense… but also strangely beautiful.
And that ending?
INope! No, no!
I need book two. Immediately.
Because right now, I feel like I’ve been left in Rosefield’s darkness with no closure—and I’m absolutely desperate for more.
December 8, 2025
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! 💛
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! 💛
May 18, 2026
This book was everything I wanted it to be and more! Romance, spice, suspense...
Rebecca's writing style, and the way she writes her characters is next level. I did an immersive read with the audiobook, which was equally amazing! It literally gave me all the feels.
"I used to think this town was too small to hold a future like mine. Turns out, it was just the right size to bury it."
Summer is living with so many different emotions. She is literally trapped against her will. Loathes Jacob until she starts to see a different side of him. And the amount of trauma she has been dealt... I have never felt so much for a character. Don't let any of that fool you though, she is not a scared little girl, she will bite back.
I absolutely hated Jacob in the beginning but easily started to love him as I got to know him more and more. He is obsessive, possesive, protective, and a force to be reckon with. But lets be honest...I love a morally grey man.
“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.”
This story is dark, intense, addicting, unsettling and will sit with you.
Now... REBECCAAAAAA! That ending!!!! I need book 2 immediately!
Rebecca's writing style, and the way she writes her characters is next level. I did an immersive read with the audiobook, which was equally amazing! It literally gave me all the feels.
"I used to think this town was too small to hold a future like mine. Turns out, it was just the right size to bury it."
Summer is living with so many different emotions. She is literally trapped against her will. Loathes Jacob until she starts to see a different side of him. And the amount of trauma she has been dealt... I have never felt so much for a character. Don't let any of that fool you though, she is not a scared little girl, she will bite back.
I absolutely hated Jacob in the beginning but easily started to love him as I got to know him more and more. He is obsessive, possesive, protective, and a force to be reckon with. But lets be honest...I love a morally grey man.
“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.”
This story is dark, intense, addicting, unsettling and will sit with you.
Now... REBECCAAAAAA! That ending!!!! I need book 2 immediately!
December 7, 2025
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 😉
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 😉
March 22, 2026
Now I understand why Rebecca is known for writing stories that really claw at your emotions.
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster in the best way. Making me feel uncomfortable at times and bringing tears.
I started off despising Jacob but that changed as the book went on.
I really enjoyed the character development and the development of Summer and Jacob’s relationship.
I started off feeling like this was all about the control that men hold over women but Rebecca has weaved in the power that women hold over men.
The age gap between the two main characters may put some off.
Make sure you read the TWs before you dive in to this book.
That ending though, has left me a bit broken! Now I can’t wait for the second in the duet
This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster in the best way. Making me feel uncomfortable at times and bringing tears.
I started off despising Jacob but that changed as the book went on.
I really enjoyed the character development and the development of Summer and Jacob’s relationship.
I started off feeling like this was all about the control that men hold over women but Rebecca has weaved in the power that women hold over men.
The age gap between the two main characters may put some off.
Make sure you read the TWs before you dive in to this book.
That ending though, has left me a bit broken! Now I can’t wait for the second in the duet
January 10, 2026
✨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!🖤
“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!🖤
December 6, 2025
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!
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!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2026
I really enjoyed this book overall. It moves at a fast pace and feels quite intense at times, but that’s to be expected with dark romance.❤️🔥
I do wish I had connected more with Jacob, though. I’ve never not fallen for a male main character in this genre before, so this was definitely a first for me. I really struggled with the fact that he had his eyes on Summer when she was still a minor, which made it hard to like him🤷🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️
That said, I absolutely loved the plot and found it really engaging. I’ll definitely be picking up the second book when it’s released.
Overall I’m pleased with this book and a huge chefs kiss to Rebecca xx
I do wish I had connected more with Jacob, though. I’ve never not fallen for a male main character in this genre before, so this was definitely a first for me. I really struggled with the fact that he had his eyes on Summer when she was still a minor, which made it hard to like him🤷🏼♀️🤦🏼♀️
That said, I absolutely loved the plot and found it really engaging. I’ll definitely be picking up the second book when it’s released.
Overall I’m pleased with this book and a huge chefs kiss to Rebecca xx
January 11, 2026
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.
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.
December 17, 2025
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!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
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 !
🌶
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 !
January 16, 2026
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🌶️
Thank you for the privilege of being an ARC reader 😁
5⭐️ 2🌶️
December 5, 2025
“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.
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.
December 31, 2025
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. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 8, 2026
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!
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!
Review of advance copy received from Author
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..😂🖤🖤
Jacob and Summer 🥰🥰
Dark, moody, forced proximity, a hot sheriff...what else does it need..😂🖤🖤
January 2, 2026
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.
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.
December 3, 2025
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 🔥🖤
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 🔥🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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
January 5, 2026
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.
Cannot wait to see how book 2 unravels Jacob/Summer relationship.
December 9, 2025
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
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
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMFG WHAT A CLIFFHANGER!!! This book.....NO....Summer's story now lives in my head rent free. I was hooked the whole way thru and left me on an absolute cliff hanger which had me going "NO NO NO I NEED TO KNOW NOW!!!
The way the story is built and keeps building within the book is done exceptionally well and the story line flows flawlessly.
Beautiful, suspenseful, jaw dropping amazing work!!!!
CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT THE FALL OF SUMMER IN MY LIBRARY!!! I want to read it again and again.
AM IN NEED OF BOOK 2 FOR MY OWN SURVIVAL.Please let me be ARC for #2
The way the story is built and keeps building within the book is done exceptionally well and the story line flows flawlessly.
Beautiful, suspenseful, jaw dropping amazing work!!!!
CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT THE FALL OF SUMMER IN MY LIBRARY!!! I want to read it again and again.
AM IN NEED OF BOOK 2 FOR MY OWN SURVIVAL.Please let me be ARC for #2
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received the ARC of this book and I must say that I am now eagerly awaiting Book 2.
Before beginning your reading journey be sure to check the trigger warnings. With that being said, get ready for a dark ride that will have you hating a certain Sheriff named Jacob in the beginning just to end up rooting for him at the end of the book. You will instantly fall in love with Summer and enjoy watching her bloom from shy to strong.
If a slow burning dark and twisted story is your idea of a great read, then this is definitely your book.
Before beginning your reading journey be sure to check the trigger warnings. With that being said, get ready for a dark ride that will have you hating a certain Sheriff named Jacob in the beginning just to end up rooting for him at the end of the book. You will instantly fall in love with Summer and enjoy watching her bloom from shy to strong.
If a slow burning dark and twisted story is your idea of a great read, then this is definitely your book.
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