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Mighty The Fallen
Chris “The Mighty” Mightener had it all—a full-ride athletic scholarship, an illustrious college football career, and then a first-round draft pick to the NFL. From king of the campus to a world of endorsements at his fingertips, the future was golden. But the higher you fly, the harder you fall.
Fifteen years later, the past catches up with him harsher than it ever has. As if broken dreams and broken bones weren’t enough shame to carry, his “dirty” little secret walks back into his life, stirring memories of heated nights that Chris has only dared to dream of since his downfall. To make matters worse, his secret looks better than ever. For the first time in years, he finds himself wanting something other than being left alone in his misery.
How can he face Jeremy Tanner as a shell of the person he used to be? He has nothing to offer the man he took for granted all those years ago. How “The Mighty” has fallen.
Fifteen years later, the past catches up with him harsher than it ever has. As if broken dreams and broken bones weren’t enough shame to carry, his “dirty” little secret walks back into his life, stirring memories of heated nights that Chris has only dared to dream of since his downfall. To make matters worse, his secret looks better than ever. For the first time in years, he finds himself wanting something other than being left alone in his misery.
How can he face Jeremy Tanner as a shell of the person he used to be? He has nothing to offer the man he took for granted all those years ago. How “The Mighty” has fallen.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2026
43 people are currently reading
300 people want to read
About the author
Dianna Roman
17 books723 followersRomcom author, Dianna Roman, believes in laughter, unsung heroes and heroines, chocolate, talking to yourself, hard work, and above all, love.
She enjoys writing stories set in small and rural towns and about characters who don't have this thing called life quite figured out yet.
Dianna lives in the woods where sunsets and gardening are the reason her house may be a bit messy.
She enjoys writing stories set in small and rural towns and about characters who don't have this thing called life quite figured out yet.
Dianna lives in the woods where sunsets and gardening are the reason her house may be a bit messy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
December 1, 2025
C-H-E-M-I-S-T-R-Y
Oh boy do these two have it.
This was incredible. I loved every minute of it (except the epilogue, because toddlers give me the creeps). I adore a Dianna Roman book, but I don’t think I have enjoyed one quite this much since “Until I saw you”. The hurt/comfort and second chance romance elements were exceptionally good.
There are some beautiful quotes that made me cry but I am not going to put them here in case you read it so you can enjoy them first hand, but I have to put this notable mention:
“I'm fine,” I mutter, rolling over like a broken sea lion.
I still hate arses being referred to as “globes”.
I loved how the insertion of 🍆was referred to in “centimeters” not only because here we have an American sensibly adopting the metric system but also, it is a much more appropriate speed than “inches”.
I received this as an arc and this is my completely honest review.
Oh boy do these two have it.
This was incredible. I loved every minute of it (except the epilogue, because toddlers give me the creeps). I adore a Dianna Roman book, but I don’t think I have enjoyed one quite this much since “Until I saw you”. The hurt/comfort and second chance romance elements were exceptionally good.
There are some beautiful quotes that made me cry but I am not going to put them here in case you read it so you can enjoy them first hand, but I have to put this notable mention:
“I'm fine,” I mutter, rolling over like a broken sea lion.
I still hate arses being referred to as “globes”.
I loved how the insertion of 🍆was referred to in “centimeters” not only because here we have an American sensibly adopting the metric system but also, it is a much more appropriate speed than “inches”.
I received this as an arc and this is my completely honest review.
January 15, 2026
This was a very delicate story, a healing, second chance at life as a whole.
One of the rare romance books I've read dealing with both physical and psychological pain and how much finding the love of your life contributes to the entire healing process.
Chris, the once cocky, invincible and untouchable football player looses everything when he crashes his car while drunk. Years later he comes across his old crush Remy who slowly ignites his lust for life and love. A very hard earned HEA with many life lessons to give
A gorgeous story.
One of the rare romance books I've read dealing with both physical and psychological pain and how much finding the love of your life contributes to the entire healing process.
Chris, the once cocky, invincible and untouchable football player looses everything when he crashes his car while drunk. Years later he comes across his old crush Remy who slowly ignites his lust for life and love. A very hard earned HEA with many life lessons to give
A gorgeous story.
January 30, 2026
3.75 - 4⭐
"What happens in a fairy tale where the prince comes in hot and heavy when you aren’t ready for it?"
This was a good story. Not great, but good. I wouldn't quite rate it with 4 stars, but it's close.
It's a tender love story of two guys who were lost in lust in college and now, 15 years later, are coming together in love, but I wanted more fireworks. The love part should've been more sizzling.
🟣 College secret hook-up
🟢 A football player / a nerd
🔵 Both 22, now 37
🟡 Size difference
🟣 Both gay
🟠 Second chance
🟢 A car accident, ED, severe condition, chronical pain, some hurt/comfort elements with it
🌶️ Smut isn't abundant, for most of the book they're without sex, it's more of an intentional coming together and getting to know each other without it; oral, rimming, frotting, penetrative; former t/b to both vers
Chris and Jeremy start out as a secret situationship at Cameron U in San Antonio, where Chris is one of the best football players with a bright NFL career in front of him and Jeremy is his secret hook up, about to start his doctorate studies for physical therapy.
Jeremy has a tremendous crush on Chris, but Chris keeps it at sex only, these guys don't even do anything else besides inexperienced Chris topping Jeremy, then he runs out the window and go home and they continue like that for two years until Chris finally goes to the NFL.
Chris gets into a big car accident about 6 months in and he's heavily hurt, has back surgery and is learning how to walk again. The consequences are grave and he's in constant pain, his life as he knows it is over, but in present he's working as a sports reporter and spends his free time hooking up in secret and wallowing in pain. I wouldn't say he's closeted, he's not, it's just not something he thinks is worth telling the world, he has no serious partners or dates, so he's just private about his personal life.
"I want someone to look at me like I’m worth as much as I was in my heyday. The closest I’ve ever come to that was when it wasn’t possible to even entertain the idea— covert moments at night during college. A sexy, eager young man who let me do whatever I wanted to him and looked at me like I hung the fucking moon."
Chris and Jeremy both live in San Antonio, but don't really meet until Remy has to take care of Chris's therapy session and they barge into each other's lives again with Chris feeling completely out of place and inadequate because he's not the strong athlete Jeremy once knew, and Jeremy now being a single guy out of quite a few of his long term relationships, always searching for that fairytale that just didn't happen to him, now seeing Chris after so many years and just feeling everything he's ever felt, and more
"That force is the unexplainable chemistry I’ve been trying to shake for the last fifteen years as I stare at the knock- me- down- and- fuck- me gorgeous face looking back at me."
So, Jeremy is equally as infatuated as he was, but he's realizing it's not just a crush, he's actually in love, he likes the new, older version of Chris even more, despite Chris having self-esteem issues and thinking he's lacking in everything.
“Dude, do you remember what a Chris addict you were? You think I didn’t know each time you were expecting a visit from him? You’d get all quiet, start super cleaning the duplex, and peeking out the window or pretending you had to ‘study’ in your room. And then after graduation… you were this hollow, lost version of my friend, like a lamp without a lightbulb.”
They start seeing each other for the purpose of physical therapy, so no sex involved and a bit of a slow burn going on, because Jeremy wants to take it slow, and I get that the author wanted those feelings to develop without them going back to just hooking up, but frankly, I needed them to be a bit more passionate. I needed more of the wow factor, I needed their love to be believable, but it's just kind of lukewarm now that I've finished the book.
Everything was great, I liked them getting cozy and comfortable and Jeremy being so accepting and easing Chris's pain, but I guess I expected more between them. Maybe it's not meant to be that, maybe it's just meant to be a simple, not that earth shattering love story, I don't know. For me something was not quite said or said enough. I missed some of the intensity I think they should've had.
When the sex happened finally, it was great, though. I loved Chris. He's a big, bulky, very attractive guy and he's in a more passive role in the second part of the story and I really liked him like that. I liked him mentioning his fat ass a lot, he was so self conscious about it, the guy didn't even get what a fucking good thing that was, all working in his favor 😄
“Yup, get a good look,” I call over my shoulder. “This is what thirty- seven looks like— having a boyfriend with a fat, jiggly ass.”
More of good, intense sex and them being very intimate would've been great too, they didn't get enough of it on-page. They were so good together, so I think more of that closeness would've finally given me what I was missing.
“And… I enjoy spending time with you.”
“What? With a grumpy asshole?” His mouth ticks up at the corner, and he shrugs.
“How about a funny, intelligent man with big feelings?”
Like I said, everything's good, I just needed the author to turn it up a notch, I needed them to be a bit more passionate about each other, but maybe it really doesn't have to be that way.
It's a nice, sweet feel-good story, but that's about it. If you want more, you'll be a bit disappointed, but overall it's good.
"What happens in a fairy tale where the prince comes in hot and heavy when you aren’t ready for it?"
This was a good story. Not great, but good. I wouldn't quite rate it with 4 stars, but it's close.
It's a tender love story of two guys who were lost in lust in college and now, 15 years later, are coming together in love, but I wanted more fireworks. The love part should've been more sizzling.
🟣 College secret hook-up
🟢 A football player / a nerd
🔵 Both 22, now 37
🟡 Size difference
🟣 Both gay
🟠 Second chance
🟢 A car accident, ED, severe condition, chronical pain, some hurt/comfort elements with it
🌶️ Smut isn't abundant, for most of the book they're without sex, it's more of an intentional coming together and getting to know each other without it; oral, rimming, frotting, penetrative; former t/b to both vers
Chris and Jeremy start out as a secret situationship at Cameron U in San Antonio, where Chris is one of the best football players with a bright NFL career in front of him and Jeremy is his secret hook up, about to start his doctorate studies for physical therapy.
Jeremy has a tremendous crush on Chris, but Chris keeps it at sex only, these guys don't even do anything else besides inexperienced Chris topping Jeremy, then he runs out the window and go home and they continue like that for two years until Chris finally goes to the NFL.
Chris gets into a big car accident about 6 months in and he's heavily hurt, has back surgery and is learning how to walk again. The consequences are grave and he's in constant pain, his life as he knows it is over, but in present he's working as a sports reporter and spends his free time hooking up in secret and wallowing in pain. I wouldn't say he's closeted, he's not, it's just not something he thinks is worth telling the world, he has no serious partners or dates, so he's just private about his personal life.
"I want someone to look at me like I’m worth as much as I was in my heyday. The closest I’ve ever come to that was when it wasn’t possible to even entertain the idea— covert moments at night during college. A sexy, eager young man who let me do whatever I wanted to him and looked at me like I hung the fucking moon."
Chris and Jeremy both live in San Antonio, but don't really meet until Remy has to take care of Chris's therapy session and they barge into each other's lives again with Chris feeling completely out of place and inadequate because he's not the strong athlete Jeremy once knew, and Jeremy now being a single guy out of quite a few of his long term relationships, always searching for that fairytale that just didn't happen to him, now seeing Chris after so many years and just feeling everything he's ever felt, and more
"That force is the unexplainable chemistry I’ve been trying to shake for the last fifteen years as I stare at the knock- me- down- and- fuck- me gorgeous face looking back at me."
So, Jeremy is equally as infatuated as he was, but he's realizing it's not just a crush, he's actually in love, he likes the new, older version of Chris even more, despite Chris having self-esteem issues and thinking he's lacking in everything.
“Dude, do you remember what a Chris addict you were? You think I didn’t know each time you were expecting a visit from him? You’d get all quiet, start super cleaning the duplex, and peeking out the window or pretending you had to ‘study’ in your room. And then after graduation… you were this hollow, lost version of my friend, like a lamp without a lightbulb.”
They start seeing each other for the purpose of physical therapy, so no sex involved and a bit of a slow burn going on, because Jeremy wants to take it slow, and I get that the author wanted those feelings to develop without them going back to just hooking up, but frankly, I needed them to be a bit more passionate. I needed more of the wow factor, I needed their love to be believable, but it's just kind of lukewarm now that I've finished the book.
Everything was great, I liked them getting cozy and comfortable and Jeremy being so accepting and easing Chris's pain, but I guess I expected more between them. Maybe it's not meant to be that, maybe it's just meant to be a simple, not that earth shattering love story, I don't know. For me something was not quite said or said enough. I missed some of the intensity I think they should've had.
When the sex happened finally, it was great, though. I loved Chris. He's a big, bulky, very attractive guy and he's in a more passive role in the second part of the story and I really liked him like that. I liked him mentioning his fat ass a lot, he was so self conscious about it, the guy didn't even get what a fucking good thing that was, all working in his favor 😄
“Yup, get a good look,” I call over my shoulder. “This is what thirty- seven looks like— having a boyfriend with a fat, jiggly ass.”
More of good, intense sex and them being very intimate would've been great too, they didn't get enough of it on-page. They were so good together, so I think more of that closeness would've finally given me what I was missing.
“And… I enjoy spending time with you.”
“What? With a grumpy asshole?” His mouth ticks up at the corner, and he shrugs.
“How about a funny, intelligent man with big feelings?”
Like I said, everything's good, I just needed the author to turn it up a notch, I needed them to be a bit more passionate about each other, but maybe it really doesn't have to be that way.
It's a nice, sweet feel-good story, but that's about it. If you want more, you'll be a bit disappointed, but overall it's good.
January 2, 2026
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review.
Gah! This book grabs at your heartstrings from the very beginning and doesn’t let go. (I’m serious. It starts at the dedication and then the stanza from the Yeats poem). I absolutely loved it! Mighty The Fallen is a beautifully written story of feeling like too much, not enough, waiting for a fairy tale, hoping for a second chance, and finally finding your person. I appreciate the disability representation as well. The friends and family members in this story help to flesh out the vibe of this book. Of those characters, Jaime is a humorous best friend and Rose, Chris’s mom, is an absolute gem.
Remy and Chris knew each other intimately in college. It’s a no strings attached entanglement. They part ways and 15 years later, life has definitely meandered into unexpected paths. Chris is still dealing with the effects of a few bad decisions. Remy is learning how to be on his own.
The pair cross paths again and even though they’re both nervous (for different reasons), the spark is still there. I love that we get two MCs who are 37 years old. Their lived experiences over the last fifteen years prime them to have a more honest, vulnerable, and mature connection. I love how open and understanding Remy is with everyone he cares about. I love how Chris puts in the work to be a better man in his own eyes and opinion. Remy gives Chris a soft and safe place to land. Chris gives Remy the effort and respect he merits. Both men give each other the consideration they deserve. I love that they aren’t perfect, but gosh are they real.
Roman does an excellent job highlighting Remy and Chris’s respective journeys. Chris struggles with self-deprecation and not feeling good enough. Remy struggles with feeling like he can be too much. Together they are just right. The way they care for and love one another is admirable. I think the happy ending in this story is well deserved, and worth the wait. The epilogue made me tear up. This story is very well written and extremely human. I highly recommend reading it!
This is my honest and voluntary review.
Gah! This book grabs at your heartstrings from the very beginning and doesn’t let go. (I’m serious. It starts at the dedication and then the stanza from the Yeats poem). I absolutely loved it! Mighty The Fallen is a beautifully written story of feeling like too much, not enough, waiting for a fairy tale, hoping for a second chance, and finally finding your person. I appreciate the disability representation as well. The friends and family members in this story help to flesh out the vibe of this book. Of those characters, Jaime is a humorous best friend and Rose, Chris’s mom, is an absolute gem.
Remy and Chris knew each other intimately in college. It’s a no strings attached entanglement. They part ways and 15 years later, life has definitely meandered into unexpected paths. Chris is still dealing with the effects of a few bad decisions. Remy is learning how to be on his own.
The pair cross paths again and even though they’re both nervous (for different reasons), the spark is still there. I love that we get two MCs who are 37 years old. Their lived experiences over the last fifteen years prime them to have a more honest, vulnerable, and mature connection. I love how open and understanding Remy is with everyone he cares about. I love how Chris puts in the work to be a better man in his own eyes and opinion. Remy gives Chris a soft and safe place to land. Chris gives Remy the effort and respect he merits. Both men give each other the consideration they deserve. I love that they aren’t perfect, but gosh are they real.
Roman does an excellent job highlighting Remy and Chris’s respective journeys. Chris struggles with self-deprecation and not feeling good enough. Remy struggles with feeling like he can be too much. Together they are just right. The way they care for and love one another is admirable. I think the happy ending in this story is well deserved, and worth the wait. The epilogue made me tear up. This story is very well written and extremely human. I highly recommend reading it!
January 15, 2026
For a while now this author has been hit and miss for me but glad to say that this one was a hit.
January 1, 2026
I think this is the best second chance book I’ve read❤️ The book is so good! Love the characters❤️❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 stars
This has been a very emotional read and I loved it so much.
Remy and Chris had an arrangement in college where they regularly used to hookup in secret. Chris was the star football player, destined to great achievements and he couldn't be caught having a relationship with a male student. So they never really talked or just spent time together, they only met to have sex. The night before graduation, they said an awkward final goodbye.
15 years later, Remy, a physical therapist, just bought his first house and he's determined to put pause on his love life, since no boyfriend has ever given him the romance he craved.
One day at his new job, he meets Chris again for the first time since that night.
Chris is a broken man, both physically and emotionally: his career ended with a car accident that was completely his fault and left him with a body constantly in pain.
I adored the slow burn of this story, how they got to know each other for the first time, how they had the chance to both remember old things and discover new ones, how they both were very interested in building a friendship, not daring to hope that the other one had romantic feelings.
I loved Chris' development so so much: from a bitter man who believed he deserved all the pain and solitude to a man who worked hard to be better, not only for Remy, but for himself too.
A sentence Chris said broke my heart, when he realised that during college he took time to see Remy's worth, that he should have known he was someone special. Instead he put football and parents expectations in front of everything, in front of him.
"I always want to kiss you."...
"Oh...It never seemed like that back in the day."
The damage I've done. The fucking damage.
Remy was adorable, a mix of messiness and confidence. He was very much determined to help Chris manage his pain, he was competent and sure of himself and then he was the cutest dork who blushed and rambled around Chris.
I didn't mind at all the low level of spice and I was actually very intrigued by the fact that they had to work hard to have full intercourse: Remy, again, showed Chris that he was worth more than just the sex, that he loved him no matter what and that he deserved a second chance at life.
In the epilogue (and what a good epilogue!) the author mentions an interesting development for Jamie (Remy's best friend), I wonder if she's planning a book for him too.
So much recommended.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
This has been a very emotional read and I loved it so much.
Remy and Chris had an arrangement in college where they regularly used to hookup in secret. Chris was the star football player, destined to great achievements and he couldn't be caught having a relationship with a male student. So they never really talked or just spent time together, they only met to have sex. The night before graduation, they said an awkward final goodbye.
15 years later, Remy, a physical therapist, just bought his first house and he's determined to put pause on his love life, since no boyfriend has ever given him the romance he craved.
One day at his new job, he meets Chris again for the first time since that night.
Chris is a broken man, both physically and emotionally: his career ended with a car accident that was completely his fault and left him with a body constantly in pain.
I adored the slow burn of this story, how they got to know each other for the first time, how they had the chance to both remember old things and discover new ones, how they both were very interested in building a friendship, not daring to hope that the other one had romantic feelings.
I loved Chris' development so so much: from a bitter man who believed he deserved all the pain and solitude to a man who worked hard to be better, not only for Remy, but for himself too.
A sentence Chris said broke my heart, when he realised that during college he took time to see Remy's worth, that he should have known he was someone special. Instead he put football and parents expectations in front of everything, in front of him.
"I always want to kiss you."...
"Oh...It never seemed like that back in the day."
The damage I've done. The fucking damage.
Remy was adorable, a mix of messiness and confidence. He was very much determined to help Chris manage his pain, he was competent and sure of himself and then he was the cutest dork who blushed and rambled around Chris.
I didn't mind at all the low level of spice and I was actually very intrigued by the fact that they had to work hard to have full intercourse: Remy, again, showed Chris that he was worth more than just the sex, that he loved him no matter what and that he deserved a second chance at life.
In the epilogue (and what a good epilogue!) the author mentions an interesting development for Jamie (Remy's best friend), I wonder if she's planning a book for him too.
So much recommended.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did not originally like Chris as he was as a college student, and I think that's the point. He needed to grow as a person and realize his worth as more than football. He went about it in a very self-destructive way, but I do think this is very realistic in that way. You may be at the tip, but if you are alone, you can still be miserable. I loved Remy and only wanted good things for him. Honestly, he was amazing through the whole thing, and I loved Jamie as well. He was supportive and hilarious. As usual, I loved the book and am so happy to have the chance to read it early.
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November 29, 2025ARC Review - 5 ⭐️
This is such a heartwarming story! Remy and Chris are so real and relatable. The issues that they deal with are explored thoughtfully and honestly. It has the perfect mix of emotion, humor, and character growth, with a super satisfying HEA. I didn’t want it to end!
This is such a heartwarming story! Remy and Chris are so real and relatable. The issues that they deal with are explored thoughtfully and honestly. It has the perfect mix of emotion, humor, and character growth, with a super satisfying HEA. I didn’t want it to end!
January 13, 2026
Mighty The Fallen
Dianna Roman
Remy & Chris
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Slow Burn
Hurt / Comfort
Substance Abuse
Jock / Nerd
Former College Hookup
Physical Therapist
Former NFL player
Physical disabilities
Oh, my this was lovely
The book starts out with Remy and Chris in college, they have been friends with benefits for 2 years. Remy clearly cares for Chris more deeply.
It's their last night, their last hookup, and they both are moving forward with their lives. Chris is going to the NFL and Remy is going on to finish his doctorate.
15 years later, the story picks up, and we have Remy working at a sports rehab center freshly out of another failed relationship and Chris just existing with his injuries that occurred from a car accident that ruined his NFL career.
They run into each other again and the spark is still there. The connection they always had.
But now we get to see them build their new friendship into more. More than a physical one.
I loved this. They were incredible together. Remy is such a healer, such a caretaker.
Chris so desperately wants to be good enough for Remy.
“Remy… you’re not real. How are you real?” I choke, a well of emotions threatening tears.
Getting to see life being brought back to Chris, him having a new take on life, was everything.
Remy receiving the love and attention he deserves, oh my heart. I love how he set boundaries for himself.
This was so wholesome and lighthearted but also deep and vulnerable in a very intimate way.
Chris struggles with self-esteem and his body fights against him. I loved the vulnerability from Chris.
“Remy is my restoration. My return to sanity.”
I just adored this. Wonderful book. I am so glad they found their way back to each other.
So thankful for this arc
Dianna Roman
Remy & Chris
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
Slow Burn
Hurt / Comfort
Substance Abuse
Jock / Nerd
Former College Hookup
Physical Therapist
Former NFL player
Physical disabilities
Oh, my this was lovely
The book starts out with Remy and Chris in college, they have been friends with benefits for 2 years. Remy clearly cares for Chris more deeply.
It's their last night, their last hookup, and they both are moving forward with their lives. Chris is going to the NFL and Remy is going on to finish his doctorate.
15 years later, the story picks up, and we have Remy working at a sports rehab center freshly out of another failed relationship and Chris just existing with his injuries that occurred from a car accident that ruined his NFL career.
They run into each other again and the spark is still there. The connection they always had.
But now we get to see them build their new friendship into more. More than a physical one.
I loved this. They were incredible together. Remy is such a healer, such a caretaker.
Chris so desperately wants to be good enough for Remy.
“Remy… you’re not real. How are you real?” I choke, a well of emotions threatening tears.
Getting to see life being brought back to Chris, him having a new take on life, was everything.
Remy receiving the love and attention he deserves, oh my heart. I love how he set boundaries for himself.
This was so wholesome and lighthearted but also deep and vulnerable in a very intimate way.
Chris struggles with self-esteem and his body fights against him. I loved the vulnerability from Chris.
“Remy is my restoration. My return to sanity.”
I just adored this. Wonderful book. I am so glad they found their way back to each other.
So thankful for this arc
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dr. Jeremy (Remy) Tanner is a physical therapist in California and he enjoys his life...for the most part. Sure, the endless parade of shitty ex-boyfriends is a little bit old, and Remy figures that 37 is a good enough time as any to figure out how to be single and live his life for himself.
Until he goes into a treatment room and finds that the patient on the table is none other than Chris Mightener, former NFL tight end and the man who broke Remy's heart 15 years ago.
Chris regrets a lot of things in his life: driving drunk and causing the accident that ended his career, his resulting pain pill addiction, letting himself go...but most of all leaving Remy Tanner behind to go live his dream. Remy used to look at him like nobody else ever did -- or has since -- and Chris knew what leaving did to the other man.
But now Remy is back, and they've switched lives. Now Remy is confident, capable, strong...and Chris can barely walk some days. But no matter what, Chris is determined to prove to Remy -- and himself -- that he deserves this beautiful, sunshiney man once and for all.
😭 What a lovely book. I really liked how it was a bit backwards: starting with intimacy and then watching our two men build a relationship while older. I really related to Chris, living with chronic pain and inflammation myself, and I loved how Remy made adjustments for his needs and made him feel like he was worth it even if his body was different. I also love that Chris was deliberate about being loud and proud about his attraction to Remy. That was the only good thing losing his career did: made it so he no longer had to hide.
Also, who doesn't love a big drooly Rottweiler who loves to beg? lol
If you have triggers definitely check those first, but this is a lovely second chance romance that I think you guys will love. And it comes out THIS TUESDAY, January 13th!
✨ Book is written in dual first person POV ✨
Rating 🔥🔥🔥🔥1/2
Until he goes into a treatment room and finds that the patient on the table is none other than Chris Mightener, former NFL tight end and the man who broke Remy's heart 15 years ago.
Chris regrets a lot of things in his life: driving drunk and causing the accident that ended his career, his resulting pain pill addiction, letting himself go...but most of all leaving Remy Tanner behind to go live his dream. Remy used to look at him like nobody else ever did -- or has since -- and Chris knew what leaving did to the other man.
But now Remy is back, and they've switched lives. Now Remy is confident, capable, strong...and Chris can barely walk some days. But no matter what, Chris is determined to prove to Remy -- and himself -- that he deserves this beautiful, sunshiney man once and for all.
😭 What a lovely book. I really liked how it was a bit backwards: starting with intimacy and then watching our two men build a relationship while older. I really related to Chris, living with chronic pain and inflammation myself, and I loved how Remy made adjustments for his needs and made him feel like he was worth it even if his body was different. I also love that Chris was deliberate about being loud and proud about his attraction to Remy. That was the only good thing losing his career did: made it so he no longer had to hide.
Also, who doesn't love a big drooly Rottweiler who loves to beg? lol
If you have triggers definitely check those first, but this is a lovely second chance romance that I think you guys will love. And it comes out THIS TUESDAY, January 13th!
✨ Book is written in dual first person POV ✨
Rating 🔥🔥🔥🔥1/2
December 17, 2025
Mighty The Fallen - Dianna Roman
5/5
* SPOILERS *
I really loved the concept of this book. I love second chances or even redemption because it makes the wait so much better when they find each other all over again. I knew when Remy and Chris were going to be so beautiful when they reunited and it was everything I expected and so much more.
This is also the first book by Dianna that I’ve read and I ate this story up. I just loved how these two MC’s are just so drawn to one another.
Man, when Chris found out that Remy had called to check on him, he was shocked because no one told him. I really loved how they reunited so many years later because these two had a spark that never ever went away.
I laughed anytime Rice Krispy treats were mentioned or when Chris was in his inner thoughts because poor guy just felt a certain way. Remy is the best cinnamon roll ever that entered Chris’s life. I just love the motivation that Remy gave Chris to better himself.
What I really loved was how strong he came on top and it was all because of Remy and his love and the push he needed. His confidence rised and it was so beautiful to see him be comfortable in his own skin again.
This was such a low angst book for me and it was something that I needed. Even though it had a little bit of hurt/comfort and of course, the emotions I was not prepared for, I would read this all over again. I am so glad that Chris did talk to his father towards the end.
All in all, I’m now going to read more from Dianna because wow… just wow!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
5/5
* SPOILERS *
I really loved the concept of this book. I love second chances or even redemption because it makes the wait so much better when they find each other all over again. I knew when Remy and Chris were going to be so beautiful when they reunited and it was everything I expected and so much more.
This is also the first book by Dianna that I’ve read and I ate this story up. I just loved how these two MC’s are just so drawn to one another.
Man, when Chris found out that Remy had called to check on him, he was shocked because no one told him. I really loved how they reunited so many years later because these two had a spark that never ever went away.
I laughed anytime Rice Krispy treats were mentioned or when Chris was in his inner thoughts because poor guy just felt a certain way. Remy is the best cinnamon roll ever that entered Chris’s life. I just love the motivation that Remy gave Chris to better himself.
What I really loved was how strong he came on top and it was all because of Remy and his love and the push he needed. His confidence rised and it was so beautiful to see him be comfortable in his own skin again.
This was such a low angst book for me and it was something that I needed. Even though it had a little bit of hurt/comfort and of course, the emotions I was not prepared for, I would read this all over again. I am so glad that Chris did talk to his father towards the end.
All in all, I’m now going to read more from Dianna because wow… just wow!
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 stars
This is a second chance, slow burn, hurt/comfort MM romance.
I so felt for Chris. He’s had a tough, painful, lonely time and he’s struggled to accept who he is since his injuries. He has big feelings, including far too many regrets and an incredibly low self-esteem.
Enter Remy, his old college hook-up, who is sweet and patient and gives Chris the encouragement he needs to begin to heal. Remy’s not sure if he’s capable of falling in love after Chris and he parted ways in college.
This story is about these two reconnecting and finding their way together. They don’t need big, loud actions, because the many smaller ones mean so much. There’s quiet affection and trust and personal growth.
There’s not much spice in this book; the intimacy is in building their connection on a deeper level, which felt right for these two. Their relationship in college revolved around sex, but this time around it’s about so much more. Their feelings are true and honest.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
-------
Some of my favourite quotes
That’s the thing about me and Chris—there’s a powerful force that draws us together like nothing could disrupt it. I’m gasoline, and he’s a flamethrower.
“I don’t want a guy who used to crawl in through my window. I want one who comes to the front door.”
“Chris...you know you don’t have to make yourself suffer as much as you do. People make mistakes. It doesn’t mean they need to punish themselves for them forever.”
“You’re more than your physical abilities and appearance, Chris. It might not seem that way when you live in pain all day and were used to...feeling different, but I hope you know that.”
“I never imagined anyone could look at me the way you do—like they see something and they mean it… All the pain, the accident, the years in between then and now, I’d go through it all over again if I knew that getting to know you was the reward on the other side.”
“You were always my only chance, Chris. I love you.”
This is a second chance, slow burn, hurt/comfort MM romance.
I so felt for Chris. He’s had a tough, painful, lonely time and he’s struggled to accept who he is since his injuries. He has big feelings, including far too many regrets and an incredibly low self-esteem.
Enter Remy, his old college hook-up, who is sweet and patient and gives Chris the encouragement he needs to begin to heal. Remy’s not sure if he’s capable of falling in love after Chris and he parted ways in college.
This story is about these two reconnecting and finding their way together. They don’t need big, loud actions, because the many smaller ones mean so much. There’s quiet affection and trust and personal growth.
There’s not much spice in this book; the intimacy is in building their connection on a deeper level, which felt right for these two. Their relationship in college revolved around sex, but this time around it’s about so much more. Their feelings are true and honest.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
-------
Some of my favourite quotes
That’s the thing about me and Chris—there’s a powerful force that draws us together like nothing could disrupt it. I’m gasoline, and he’s a flamethrower.
“I don’t want a guy who used to crawl in through my window. I want one who comes to the front door.”
“Chris...you know you don’t have to make yourself suffer as much as you do. People make mistakes. It doesn’t mean they need to punish themselves for them forever.”
“You’re more than your physical abilities and appearance, Chris. It might not seem that way when you live in pain all day and were used to...feeling different, but I hope you know that.”
“I never imagined anyone could look at me the way you do—like they see something and they mean it… All the pain, the accident, the years in between then and now, I’d go through it all over again if I knew that getting to know you was the reward on the other side.”
“You were always my only chance, Chris. I love you.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ ARC Review ✨
Well Dianna has done it again! Ripped my heart out in the most romantic way possible 🥹. I can't tell everyone how much I adored this book! It was everything I look for in a romance, and more 🫶. I mean these characters will make your heart THROB and break, before ultimately being stitched back together even better than it was before 😍.
Remy and Chris are definitely a top two couple for me, and I can already feel in my soul that this will be a comfort read 💜. They are complex characters with many layers and emotions, as well as flawed individuals who realize that together they complete one another in the best of ways, and isn't that what any decent relationship should do? Not highlight your flaws and mistakes but uplift you.
Chris and Remy were past college hookups that find each other many years later, both broken in their own ways, whether by their own choices or by life. It's honestly so adorable watching these two build a relationship built on friendship, trust and respect. Especially considering their past, and how obsessed Remy was in the past with the college Football star 😜.
Seriously, if you have loved Dianna's books before then I highly suggest this one as well! It's mid angst, lots of swoon-worthy moments between MC's, hilarious inner dialogue, a super sweet Rottweiler, and so much more 🫶🥰.
Well Dianna has done it again! Ripped my heart out in the most romantic way possible 🥹. I can't tell everyone how much I adored this book! It was everything I look for in a romance, and more 🫶. I mean these characters will make your heart THROB and break, before ultimately being stitched back together even better than it was before 😍.
Remy and Chris are definitely a top two couple for me, and I can already feel in my soul that this will be a comfort read 💜. They are complex characters with many layers and emotions, as well as flawed individuals who realize that together they complete one another in the best of ways, and isn't that what any decent relationship should do? Not highlight your flaws and mistakes but uplift you.
Chris and Remy were past college hookups that find each other many years later, both broken in their own ways, whether by their own choices or by life. It's honestly so adorable watching these two build a relationship built on friendship, trust and respect. Especially considering their past, and how obsessed Remy was in the past with the college Football star 😜.
Seriously, if you have loved Dianna's books before then I highly suggest this one as well! It's mid angst, lots of swoon-worthy moments between MC's, hilarious inner dialogue, a super sweet Rottweiler, and so much more 🫶🥰.
December 22, 2025
Chris and Remy met in college and had a secret affair. They parted ways when college ended and unexpectedly were reunited years later after Chris’ football career ended early due to injury. He struggled for a long time trying to have a “normal life”.
I love the nerd/jock dynamic, and how they both just had a bad for each other. It was interesting to see Chris come to terms with his injuries and his life and his perception of the way that other people viewed him and the ways that he was able to heal once he opened himself up. I enjoyed seeing Remy’s character grow in self-confidence and going for what he wanted. I felt like this book was sweet and thoughtful, and also had a profound insight as to what it’s like living with chronic pain. I’m looking forward to listening to this on audio!
I love the nerd/jock dynamic, and how they both just had a bad for each other. It was interesting to see Chris come to terms with his injuries and his life and his perception of the way that other people viewed him and the ways that he was able to heal once he opened himself up. I enjoyed seeing Remy’s character grow in self-confidence and going for what he wanted. I felt like this book was sweet and thoughtful, and also had a profound insight as to what it’s like living with chronic pain. I’m looking forward to listening to this on audio!
January 16, 2026
This is a second chance romance, featuring Chris “Mighty” Mightener and Jeremy “Remy” Tanner, and is book one in the Shattered series.
Chris was once a superstar football player, but his life fell apart after a car accident. When, Remy, his secret relationship during college, returns years later, Chris must face his past and decide if he deserves a second chance.
I really loved this one, it was so sweet and pretty low angst. There is something so beautiful about first loves reconnecting. These two were great together and I loved how much Remy helped Chris find himself and love him unconditionally.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM romance
Check CW
Slow hurn
Reporter x Physio
Ex NFL footballer
College FWB
Secret relationship
Unrequited love
15 years apart
Reconnecting
Grumpy x sunshine
Pet dad - dog
Hurt / Comfort
Disability rep
Chronic pain
Second chance
Cuddling
Cooking for him
Spicy times
Admit feelings
HEA
Chris was once a superstar football player, but his life fell apart after a car accident. When, Remy, his secret relationship during college, returns years later, Chris must face his past and decide if he deserves a second chance.
I really loved this one, it was so sweet and pretty low angst. There is something so beautiful about first loves reconnecting. These two were great together and I loved how much Remy helped Chris find himself and love him unconditionally.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM romance
Check CW
Slow hurn
Reporter x Physio
Ex NFL footballer
College FWB
Secret relationship
Unrequited love
15 years apart
Reconnecting
Grumpy x sunshine
Pet dad - dog
Hurt / Comfort
Disability rep
Chronic pain
Second chance
Cuddling
Cooking for him
Spicy times
Admit feelings
HEA
January 15, 2026
It hooked me from the beginning. This was such a heartwarming book to read. For anyone with any disability, it will give you a sense of peace and belonging. As someone with physical scars I try to hide, reading about someone who has the same issues is amazing to me. And on top of that, this character finding a love that is all consuming not despite his scars but because of them. Without them, Chris never would have run into Remy again. Without them, Chris wouldnt have a second chance with the one that got away.
I 100% recommend this to anyone who loves a good sports romance. Im excited to find out what the rest of the series has.
I 100% recommend this to anyone who loves a good sports romance. Im excited to find out what the rest of the series has.
January 14, 2026
I love Remy & Chris found there way back to each other even though it was 15 years later and Chris was “broken”. That poor man went through so much and here comes Remy loving him just the way he is. Remy is so good for Chris and knowing that he loves him scars and all was so precious.
January 15, 2026
This book was such a great surprise!
After all the Heated Rivalry fever, this was like a balm to my reading something new necessity.
This is a second chance well earned.
I had so many emotions during this reading understanding the charachters.
To go with them you through their healing relation was so moving.
I totally recommend this book!!
I received the arc and this was my honest review.
After all the Heated Rivalry fever, this was like a balm to my reading something new necessity.
This is a second chance well earned.
I had so many emotions during this reading understanding the charachters.
To go with them you through their healing relation was so moving.
I totally recommend this book!!
I received the arc and this was my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I don’t want a guy who used to crawl in through my window. I want one who comes to the front door.”
🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈
This is one of the sweetest and best second chance books I’ve read. It’s not my usual go-to trope but, as with all of Dianna’s books, this was absolutely fantastic! She’s an automatic read for me.
15 years after being college fck buddies, Chris and Remy run into each other. Their explosive passion is still there, but Remy refuses to go down that road again. He wants more than just the physical. Chris has demons and chronic pain he’s battling after an accident destroyed his NFL career. He feels like he has nothing to offer a partner but wants one so, so badly.
If you like books with a slow burn, former hookups to lovers, second chance, a deep emotional connection and lots of hurt-comfort vibes the you need to read this! This was just wonderful.
🏈🏈🏈🏈🏈
This is one of the sweetest and best second chance books I’ve read. It’s not my usual go-to trope but, as with all of Dianna’s books, this was absolutely fantastic! She’s an automatic read for me.
15 years after being college fck buddies, Chris and Remy run into each other. Their explosive passion is still there, but Remy refuses to go down that road again. He wants more than just the physical. Chris has demons and chronic pain he’s battling after an accident destroyed his NFL career. He feels like he has nothing to offer a partner but wants one so, so badly.
If you like books with a slow burn, former hookups to lovers, second chance, a deep emotional connection and lots of hurt-comfort vibes the you need to read this! This was just wonderful.
January 15, 2026
I was hooked at the start because I love a good second-chance story. Seeing how much one of the characters had changed since the prologue was really interesting and made me want to keep reading.
That said, some of the scenes between them didn’t leave a big impression on me. There were moments where I felt a little disconnected, even though I liked the idea of their relationship. From about the 80% mark onward, though, I was fully back in and really enjoyed finishing the book.
I appreciated how the story handled heavier themes like guilt and how it can put your life on hold, as well as the long-term effects of chronic pain. Those aspects added a lot of depth.
The romance itself was very gentle and emotionally focused, with little emphasis on physical intimacy, which I really loved. The power of low-spice, emotional love stories often gets overlooked, and this book reminded me why they can work well.
Tropes:
Second chance
Mmc with chronic pain
Grumpy x sunshine
Spice: 1.5
That said, some of the scenes between them didn’t leave a big impression on me. There were moments where I felt a little disconnected, even though I liked the idea of their relationship. From about the 80% mark onward, though, I was fully back in and really enjoyed finishing the book.
I appreciated how the story handled heavier themes like guilt and how it can put your life on hold, as well as the long-term effects of chronic pain. Those aspects added a lot of depth.
The romance itself was very gentle and emotionally focused, with little emphasis on physical intimacy, which I really loved. The power of low-spice, emotional love stories often gets overlooked, and this book reminded me why they can work well.
Tropes:
Second chance
Mmc with chronic pain
Grumpy x sunshine
Spice: 1.5
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐️ 2.5🌶
What a beautiful story about real life heartbreak and overcoming. This second chance romance took my breath away. I could not put it down.
This is an emotional raw story about mental health, chronic pain and dealing with a cronic back injury and loosing hope in love but its not super heavy and debilitating like most hurt/comfort books i have read. This really did feel honest, palpable and real. Its like the author had a mainline into my brain and body with the way she wrote and described Chris and his pain. coming from someone who has the same trouble it came across the page with so much truth that it was validating.
Chris and Remy reconnect and build a strong friendship that blossoms into a strong undeniable love. I love the way the bring so much light and fun into each other's lives. Even with all of the heavy emotions they are playful and funny together. You can really tell that they are now adults and have grown up into men. I love seeing how they started and how they grew.
This was a beautiful read. It was my first book by this author and it will not be my last.
Thank you to Dianna for this ARC. These are my honest opinions and feelings.
What a beautiful story about real life heartbreak and overcoming. This second chance romance took my breath away. I could not put it down.
This is an emotional raw story about mental health, chronic pain and dealing with a cronic back injury and loosing hope in love but its not super heavy and debilitating like most hurt/comfort books i have read. This really did feel honest, palpable and real. Its like the author had a mainline into my brain and body with the way she wrote and described Chris and his pain. coming from someone who has the same trouble it came across the page with so much truth that it was validating.
Chris and Remy reconnect and build a strong friendship that blossoms into a strong undeniable love. I love the way the bring so much light and fun into each other's lives. Even with all of the heavy emotions they are playful and funny together. You can really tell that they are now adults and have grown up into men. I love seeing how they started and how they grew.
This was a beautiful read. It was my first book by this author and it will not be my last.
Thank you to Dianna for this ARC. These are my honest opinions and feelings.
December 3, 2025
I really enjoyed reading about Remy and Chris!! I absolutely couldn’t put it down. It definitely has all the feels an. A good amount of spice! I highly recommend checking it out!!
December 4, 2025
5+ STARS
This book blew me away, but I have grown to expect this from Ms. Roman. She took a familiar trope of second chances and made this story so fresh and unique.
The brief prologue introduced us to college-aged Remy and Chris. None of us remain our younger selves, and it was important for the reader to really understand their fragile and less worldly view of life. This young Chris is headed for football fame, a guarantee for the NFL. He portrays the all-American youth, and he can't let this pull he has with Remy be known as he is afraid it could destroy his future.
Remy has a sweetheart of a personality that incidentally stays with him. He literally adored Chris, even though the relationship had been mainly physical. Chris would skulk into his window to avoid being seen when they met up, which was so hard on Remy.
Fame happens to Chris, but it is brief, and a tragic mistake stole everything that was important to him. During his recovery, there were no friends, his career was in shatters, and constant pain was his only company. He hated relying on his parents and started a new career path. Chris still harbors so much shame. It turns out his biggest regret comes in the shape of a physical therapist named Remy.
Remy is stunned not only to see Chris again as a client but also to realize that 15 years hasn't changed the effect this man still has on him. After their shocking reunion, the slow pacing of building a tentative friendship begins. This was so important as Remy has always wanted to jump into relationships quickly. He craved what he really wanted with Chris, and it never worked out with his other boyfriends.
I loved how the men finally realized this was no do over, but a new beginning. They needed to learn about the men now in their 30s and how their paths in their life brought them to this turning point.
Remy was beyond special. He never was bitter towards Chris and learned to be firm and put himself first. He is a natural at nurturing, and Chris definitely thaws with his tender attention. Chris of young appeared, arrogant and unlikable, but getting to know Chris along with Remy, the reader understands how alone and terrified he was, and this was even before the accident.
The side characters added more wonderful layers to the story. Remy's off the wall, best friend Jamie brought gentle waves of levity into this poignant story. I adored Chris's mom and saw his father in a different light. All of this makes the story come to life.
Their journey is raw and challenging, but so very much worth it. I highly encourage you to read this passionate and beautiful love story that will remain with you long after you finish the book. Happy reading.
This book blew me away, but I have grown to expect this from Ms. Roman. She took a familiar trope of second chances and made this story so fresh and unique.
The brief prologue introduced us to college-aged Remy and Chris. None of us remain our younger selves, and it was important for the reader to really understand their fragile and less worldly view of life. This young Chris is headed for football fame, a guarantee for the NFL. He portrays the all-American youth, and he can't let this pull he has with Remy be known as he is afraid it could destroy his future.
Remy has a sweetheart of a personality that incidentally stays with him. He literally adored Chris, even though the relationship had been mainly physical. Chris would skulk into his window to avoid being seen when they met up, which was so hard on Remy.
Fame happens to Chris, but it is brief, and a tragic mistake stole everything that was important to him. During his recovery, there were no friends, his career was in shatters, and constant pain was his only company. He hated relying on his parents and started a new career path. Chris still harbors so much shame. It turns out his biggest regret comes in the shape of a physical therapist named Remy.
Remy is stunned not only to see Chris again as a client but also to realize that 15 years hasn't changed the effect this man still has on him. After their shocking reunion, the slow pacing of building a tentative friendship begins. This was so important as Remy has always wanted to jump into relationships quickly. He craved what he really wanted with Chris, and it never worked out with his other boyfriends.
I loved how the men finally realized this was no do over, but a new beginning. They needed to learn about the men now in their 30s and how their paths in their life brought them to this turning point.
Remy was beyond special. He never was bitter towards Chris and learned to be firm and put himself first. He is a natural at nurturing, and Chris definitely thaws with his tender attention. Chris of young appeared, arrogant and unlikable, but getting to know Chris along with Remy, the reader understands how alone and terrified he was, and this was even before the accident.
The side characters added more wonderful layers to the story. Remy's off the wall, best friend Jamie brought gentle waves of levity into this poignant story. I adored Chris's mom and saw his father in a different light. All of this makes the story come to life.
Their journey is raw and challenging, but so very much worth it. I highly encourage you to read this passionate and beautiful love story that will remain with you long after you finish the book. Happy reading.
January 13, 2026
“I don’t want a guy who used to crawl in through my window. I want one who comes to the front door.”
"...I don’t want to be angry anymore. I don’t want to hate myself. Hate life. Hate the dark days when I have to plaster myself to a heating pad or an ice pack. I just want…some sunshine."
“Thank you...For giving me a chance again...”
“...You were always my only chance, Chris."
The first chapter in the intimately moving Mighty The Fallen, beautifully written by MM romance author, Dianna Roman, is the last time Chris "The Mighty" Mightener, college football star, and sweet, totally in love nerd, Jeremy "Remy" Tanner, make love in secret before Chris is a first round draft pick in the NFL and Remy tries to move on as he becomes a physical therapist.
What follows for Chris is a life filled with mistakes, regrets and pain. A bad decision leaves him in physical pain unable to do the one thing he is trained for, football. He feels alone, angry and broken. He has never felt free. Not from his Dad's ambition or his closeted sexuality. Until his pain unknowingly leads him to physical therapist Remy for relief and, perhaps, redemption.
Remy knows he's never gotten over Chris; but he also knows, he doesn't want the Chris who kept him a dirty little secret. Neither of them are those young college boys anymore. Still their chemistry is explosive and just like dynamite they have to thread carefully with each other or it will blow up leaving them both in pieces.
This love story is not just about second chances. It's about compassion, forgiveness, and being mighty enough to love without fear of the consequences. "The Mighty" Chris has fallen, but this time instead of a fallen life, he has fallen in love, with the one who always wanted to love him in the sunshine.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
"...I don’t want to be angry anymore. I don’t want to hate myself. Hate life. Hate the dark days when I have to plaster myself to a heating pad or an ice pack. I just want…some sunshine."
“Thank you...For giving me a chance again...”
“...You were always my only chance, Chris."
The first chapter in the intimately moving Mighty The Fallen, beautifully written by MM romance author, Dianna Roman, is the last time Chris "The Mighty" Mightener, college football star, and sweet, totally in love nerd, Jeremy "Remy" Tanner, make love in secret before Chris is a first round draft pick in the NFL and Remy tries to move on as he becomes a physical therapist.
What follows for Chris is a life filled with mistakes, regrets and pain. A bad decision leaves him in physical pain unable to do the one thing he is trained for, football. He feels alone, angry and broken. He has never felt free. Not from his Dad's ambition or his closeted sexuality. Until his pain unknowingly leads him to physical therapist Remy for relief and, perhaps, redemption.
Remy knows he's never gotten over Chris; but he also knows, he doesn't want the Chris who kept him a dirty little secret. Neither of them are those young college boys anymore. Still their chemistry is explosive and just like dynamite they have to thread carefully with each other or it will blow up leaving them both in pieces.
This love story is not just about second chances. It's about compassion, forgiveness, and being mighty enough to love without fear of the consequences. "The Mighty" Chris has fallen, but this time instead of a fallen life, he has fallen in love, with the one who always wanted to love him in the sunshine.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 8, 2025
If I had to sum up this book in a few words I would say sweet, realistic, and relateable.
I love the way Dianna writes hurt/comfort because it never feels exaggerated or over the top for the sake of fiction. What happened to Chris is something that has and does happen to a lot of people, and I think his journey to self-acceptance was great to see. While this is a second chance romance, a trope a usually don't read a lot of, it almost felt like a second chance with himself as well and I ate it up.
Remy was the sweetest romantic and I loved his character so much. The way he stands up for himself and his wants and needs in the beginning was so great and more of a rare find for me in books. There was enough moments of care and vulnerability throughout that made my hurt/comfort loving heart happy, but none of them were extremely dramatic or over the top which I liked. Plus the fact that the big protector is the one who needs some extra loving here is a huge win for me!
This book felt a little slice-of-life to me and after the fantastic prologue felt a little slow and took a little to get going. The conflict with Chris's father I could take or leave, I felt like it either didn't need to exist at all, or could have had more of a presence in the story; I did like how it was resolved though!
Overall I would say read this book if you are looking for some realistic mental and physical hurt/comfort with a good dose of longing and wrangling with inner feelings. You'll be rooting for these characters from the prologue alone and the epilogue was so completely satisfying for thier story.
*I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
I love the way Dianna writes hurt/comfort because it never feels exaggerated or over the top for the sake of fiction. What happened to Chris is something that has and does happen to a lot of people, and I think his journey to self-acceptance was great to see. While this is a second chance romance, a trope a usually don't read a lot of, it almost felt like a second chance with himself as well and I ate it up.
Remy was the sweetest romantic and I loved his character so much. The way he stands up for himself and his wants and needs in the beginning was so great and more of a rare find for me in books. There was enough moments of care and vulnerability throughout that made my hurt/comfort loving heart happy, but none of them were extremely dramatic or over the top which I liked. Plus the fact that the big protector is the one who needs some extra loving here is a huge win for me!
This book felt a little slice-of-life to me and after the fantastic prologue felt a little slow and took a little to get going. The conflict with Chris's father I could take or leave, I felt like it either didn't need to exist at all, or could have had more of a presence in the story; I did like how it was resolved though!
Overall I would say read this book if you are looking for some realistic mental and physical hurt/comfort with a good dose of longing and wrangling with inner feelings. You'll be rooting for these characters from the prologue alone and the epilogue was so completely satisfying for thier story.
*I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
January 1, 2026
Mighty the fallen is a story about Chris and Jeremy (Remy). Chris was an up-and-coming football star and Remy was on the path to be a physio therapist when they parted after graduation. Chris landed an NFL contract but soon thereafter destroyed that dream for himself by drinking and driving his first year, causing irreversible injuries that ended his career.
The two MC’s meet again 15 years later when Chris is in for some physiotherapy and Remi is the therapist covering for Chris’s sick therapist. Chris felt broken and unworthy, he felt like he deserved everything he got, pain and all. Remy wanted to help him feel whole, he wanted to show him that he didn’t need to keep punishing himself for the past. The feelings between the two of them were quick to return but, this was also a low angst slow burn where they started off again as friends getting to know each other as adults instead of jumping into bed. Chris spent a great deal of time showing Remi that he can show up at the front door instead of through the window. Remy spent a great deal of time showing Chris that he was worthy, that he was not broken, and that past mistakes can and should be forgiven. He was worthy of living a full life filed with love.
This was the first book I’ve read by this author. It was a second chance redemption story and I really enjoyed it. It was a very low angst, heartwarming story. The two MC‘s were well written and well suited together. The side characters (namely Jaime, Remy’s best friend) were also well written. I will read this author again!
The two MC’s meet again 15 years later when Chris is in for some physiotherapy and Remi is the therapist covering for Chris’s sick therapist. Chris felt broken and unworthy, he felt like he deserved everything he got, pain and all. Remy wanted to help him feel whole, he wanted to show him that he didn’t need to keep punishing himself for the past. The feelings between the two of them were quick to return but, this was also a low angst slow burn where they started off again as friends getting to know each other as adults instead of jumping into bed. Chris spent a great deal of time showing Remi that he can show up at the front door instead of through the window. Remy spent a great deal of time showing Chris that he was worthy, that he was not broken, and that past mistakes can and should be forgiven. He was worthy of living a full life filed with love.
This was the first book I’ve read by this author. It was a second chance redemption story and I really enjoyed it. It was a very low angst, heartwarming story. The two MC‘s were well written and well suited together. The side characters (namely Jaime, Remy’s best friend) were also well written. I will read this author again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2026
It has taken me a while to write this review because I really felt this story as I could relate to Chris in some way as I have suffered from chronic back pain and depression for many years. This an emotional and beautiful second chance story that started in college. Football player Chris had it all but he didn't think he could be out in college or the NFL but he can't stay away from Remy so they had a secret relationship for two years. Remy fell for Chris but knew he couldn't tell Chris as he knew the deal. Fast forward 13 years and they meet again. Remy now works as a physiotherapist and Chris' life is completely different. After only one year in the NFL he made the bad mistake of drunk driving and had a bad car crash which destroyed his back. He now work as a sports journalist for a local paper while trying to get through every day with severe back pain. When he hurts his back he ends up at Remy's clinic and it brings all the feelings back. Remy is trying to work on himself and Chris struggles with letting Remy see him like this but slowly the start working through their issues but also supporting each other. Like I said, it is very emotional story and it must have been hard for Dianna to write it but I appreciate her writing a story I think a lot of people will relate too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2025
▪️ Title: Mighty the Fallen
▪️ Author: Dianna Roman
▪️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📝 Synopsis:
Chris “The Mighty” Mightener was once a college football legend headed for NFL stardom, until everything came crashing down. Years later, he’s living with the weight of his past, his injuries, and his addiction recovery when someone from his former life unexpectedly reenters his world. Jeremy Tanner, the man he once took for granted, forces Chris to confront who he was, who he’s become, and whether redemption and love are still possible.
💭 My Thoughts:
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. The hurt/comfort, emotional depth, and slow-burn connection were beautifully done. Chris’s journey through recovery, physical limitations, and self-worth felt raw, honest, and deeply human. Jeremy’s patience, strength, and quiet care grounded the story and made their reconnection incredibly powerful. I loved how the romance unfolded with intention, communication, and genuine growth rather than shortcuts. The themes of redemption, healing, and choosing yourself again hit hard, and the emotional payoff was so worth it. This was tender, painful, hopeful, and unforgettable. A full five stars for me. ❤️
▪️ Author: Dianna Roman
▪️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📝 Synopsis:
Chris “The Mighty” Mightener was once a college football legend headed for NFL stardom, until everything came crashing down. Years later, he’s living with the weight of his past, his injuries, and his addiction recovery when someone from his former life unexpectedly reenters his world. Jeremy Tanner, the man he once took for granted, forces Chris to confront who he was, who he’s become, and whether redemption and love are still possible.
💭 My Thoughts:
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. The hurt/comfort, emotional depth, and slow-burn connection were beautifully done. Chris’s journey through recovery, physical limitations, and self-worth felt raw, honest, and deeply human. Jeremy’s patience, strength, and quiet care grounded the story and made their reconnection incredibly powerful. I loved how the romance unfolded with intention, communication, and genuine growth rather than shortcuts. The themes of redemption, healing, and choosing yourself again hit hard, and the emotional payoff was so worth it. This was tender, painful, hopeful, and unforgettable. A full five stars for me. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mighty The Fallen is the second chance romance story of Jeremy "Remy" Tanner and Chris "Mighty" Mightener. In college Chris was the football star drafted by the NFL; Remy was his secret hookup with seemingly unrequited feelings. They part ways after graduation night. A year later, Chris's football dreams are shattered following a serious accident. Fast forward fourteen years to an unexpected reunion when Chris goes to a PT appointment, only to discover that Remy will be the one treating him. This and another unexpected run-in soon after lead to a budding friendship that could lead to the love of a lifetime for them both.
Remy was likable from the very beginning, his 22 year-old self being more sympathetic and relatable. Chris came across as more of a stereotypical cocky jock who took Remy for granted. However, I grew to absolutely love both Remy and Chris after their reunion at age 37. Chris goes from feeling bitter and ashamed of his life's trajectory to being a loving, open, and vulnerable friend and partner to Remy. Remy, sweet and caring as always, is also more confident and able to speak up for himself and his needs. Once they start communicating openly, their relationship is full of respect, comfort, patience, and understanding. Remy and Chris themselves may not be perfect, but they're absolutely perfect for each other.
This is one of the best second chance love stories I've read in a while. Wonderful MCs and some great side characters (especially Remy's friend Jamie and Chris's mom). 4.5/5 stars
Remy was likable from the very beginning, his 22 year-old self being more sympathetic and relatable. Chris came across as more of a stereotypical cocky jock who took Remy for granted. However, I grew to absolutely love both Remy and Chris after their reunion at age 37. Chris goes from feeling bitter and ashamed of his life's trajectory to being a loving, open, and vulnerable friend and partner to Remy. Remy, sweet and caring as always, is also more confident and able to speak up for himself and his needs. Once they start communicating openly, their relationship is full of respect, comfort, patience, and understanding. Remy and Chris themselves may not be perfect, but they're absolutely perfect for each other.
This is one of the best second chance love stories I've read in a while. Wonderful MCs and some great side characters (especially Remy's friend Jamie and Chris's mom). 4.5/5 stars
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