In a world where the rules are iron-clad, the only thing more dangerous than the mountain is falling for the man who abandoned it.
CONNOR I was once at the top of the snowboarding world until one traumatic night took everything from me. Five years later, I’m offered a return to the circuit as the head coach for the only boarder talented enough to rival my own legacy—the reckless, cocky, and undeniably brilliant Vox Montgomery. For me, this isn't just a job; it’s my shot at redemption. But Vox is a magnetic force I can’t resist, and if I can’t keep my hands to myself, I’ll lose this chance before it even starts.
VOX I’ve spent five years harboring a grudge against my idol. When Connor vanished without a trace, he left a void that fueled my reputation for being as dangerous on the slopes as I am off them. When Connor arrives in Ricochet Ridge as my new head coach, I’m determined to get more than just his professional respect—I want him. The tension between us is a powder keg, forbidden by the iron-clad rules of my sponsor. Grey Patterson forbids staff and athletes from dating, meaning one wrong move could end my career and Connor’s second chance.
THE RACE When Vox finds Connor broken in the snow and finally learns the devastating truth behind his disappearance, the lines between coach and athlete get obliterated. In the high-stakes world of professional snowboarding, Connor and Vox are about to learn that the most dangerous pursuit isn't a first place finish on the mountain—it's the heart of the one person you’re forbidden to touch.
Coach x Athlete Forbidden Romance Healing from Trauma Snark and Banter High Heat & HEA
Fall Line is an interconnected standalone with a guaranteed HEA. You can start here or read it out of order without spoilers for the rest of the Ricochet Ridge series.
Jillian lives in North Carolina with her incredibly supportive husband and three awesome stepkids. After over ten years in the healthcare industry, it was time to pursue a new passion. An avid reader her whole life, she sat down one night and let the words begin to flow. Four hours and ten thousand words later, a love of writing was discovered. She writes spicy, bingeable reads that encourage self-discovery and come with all the angst and excitement of a new relationship. When she isn’t reading or writing, you can either find her in her vegetable garden, at CrossFit™, or on a plane headed toward her next adventure.
I will admit, I struggled a bit with keeping my attention for the first quarter or so. But then it all clicked and I loved it ☺️ First and foremost, Vox is just 🔥 He is this perfect hilarious chaotic whirlwind, absolutely impossible not to fall in love with right away 😻
“Oh, for fuck’s sake, what now? Do I have a tattoo on my forehead that says ‘Loves Secrets’? Because I don’t. I don’t love them.”
What I also loved was the fact that while it was a forbidden relationship and all, there still was no unnecessary drama or complications. I really loved how it all worked out) It is a very wholesome story with good plot, characters and totally sweet and lovable MCs 💜
From start to finish, this book had me completely hooked! You know those books where you are just reading, having a great time, then suddenly you look down and you’re at 60%?! It's that kind of book!
Vox Montgomery is a brilliant snowboarder and he knows it. That makes him reckless and a little out of control. Connor Lang, a snowboarding legend, disappeared at the peak of his career five years ago. He also happens to be Vox’s childhood hero.
With a huge race coming up, Patterson Performance, Vox's sponsor, brings Connor in to coach Vox and hopefully teach him some control. At first, these two clash. Connor sees an arrogant disaster waiting to happen, and Vox doesn’t trust Connor because he refuses to answer the question, 'why did you leave?' But knowing he has to give Vox something to earn his trust, Connor tells Vox a shortened version of the truth.
Connor tries to face one of his biggest fears but it leaves him vulnerable. And Vox just so happens to catch Connor at his most vulnerable. That's when things, shift. Lines blur, tension builds, and the attraction that had been simmering since they first met becomes impossible to ignore.
Listen, I love a forbidden romance. Its the tension, the longing, the "just kiss him already!!!" vibes that are my favorite. When Connor and Vox finally give in... Its. Worth. Every. Second.
With the funny banter, hot chemistry, vulnerability, and spicy spice, everything just works to make this book an incredibly fun time!
This is the sixth book by Jillian D. Wray I've read this year, and once again, I could not put this book down. 🙌🏽 Don't miss it.
Started: March 16th, 2026 Finished: March 16th, 2026 Format: Kindle
Am I ready to see the end of Canadian winter? Yes! Was I just as ready to revisit Ricochet Ridge’s winter setting to find out if Vox and Connor get their HEA? An even bigger yes!!
Given my love for the first book I had high hopes for Fall Line. I can happily say they were met! I liked Vox’s character from the moment he appeared in Meltdown, and quickly grew to love him as he got his rightful turn in the spotlight. Our boy has some serious abandonment issues and I needed him to find love and family. His flirting was fun and I liked his cocky attitude and the vulnerabilities he kept buried beneath.
Vox and Connor’s chemistry was apparent from the beginning, but their relationship was forbidden due to their athlete/coach dynamic. Vox’s flirtatious nature meets Connor’s hesitance in the most wonderful of ways. Connor was struggling with his past and the reason why he left snowboarding so suddenly, still feeling a lot of guilt, angst, and regret for how everything went down. I thought Connor and Vox balanced one another really well and I lived for their moments of vulnerability.
I was provided with an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review. These are my real sentiments about the story and everything written here is respectful, without meaning to harm anyone, but to offer my opinion as constructive criticism/compliments. Thank you, Jillian, for the opportunity!
⭐⭐⭐⭐️.75 / 5 (rounded up to 5) 🔥🔥🔥.75 / 5
Couple: Vox and Connor.
Structure: 1st person. Present tense. Dual POV. Second book in a series.
I am COMPLETELY in love with Vox and Connor. In Meltdown, I was a bit unsure about Vox, even though he seemed nice. But getting to know him, and seeing how much he grew up with Connor, was amazing. I love stories that involve an age gap with idol x fan who followed their same path. I could feel it in my bones Vox's emotions for winning over the heart of the guy he always yearned for, but didn't even remember he existed.
And baby Connor. What a sweet, beautiful soul. Tormenting himself for something that wasn't his fault. I was so happy when he started to forgive himself and overcome his trauma. The way he and Vox helped each other out through the hardships of their lives was incredible. They are one of those couples you see and think: "Those two are definitely better together."
Despite the angst in their individual stories, I do not consider this book high angst. For me in particular, it was more of a low-angst with one foot set on medium-angst. It was mostly a lovely story of growth, overcoming fears and finding love and self-love in the most unexpected places. It is beautiful, intriguing and so, SO HOT! I mean, the way those two want each other? The tension whenever they're together? Girl, it's pure fire 🔥🔥🔥
I highly recommend this reading for fans of sweet MM romance with very human characters and a dose of sports.
I haven’t read too many books by Jillian but the ones I have read, I’ve absolutely loved. I will say that this one is my favorite one in this series. I love me a good forbidden romance between a coach and an athlete. I’m here for it in every single way possible. I also knew when Vox was the MC for this book I just had to read it because he was in Meltdown and I loved him so much.
This book surprised me in all the good ways that you could think of. Vox and Connor have my heart completely and I really want more stories like these two. There’s so much that happens that you don’t expect and you only get more than you ask.
I was completely surprised about the whole Grey situation but I knew stuff was about to hit the fan when I read the whole tracker issue. I loved how Vox was good at what he does because of Connor, his first crush.
When Connor has a moment and Vox was there to help him through it, gosh, that was the moment that everything changed for them in the best way.
This book is filled with drama and angst obviously but man, I was swooning during the sweetest moments. When Connor about lost himself when Grey had his hand on Vox, I was just jumping for joy because this man would do anything to protect what is his. That whole situation with Grey and his father was intense when you find out more.
All in all, I highly recommend anyone to read this because it was everything for me. I could go on and on but I will say Jillian is definitely one of my favorite authors.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Fall Line is the second book in Jillian D. Wray’s Ricochet Ridge series. The books are a set of very loosely interconnected standalones that take place around the Ricochet Ridge resort. There are little small connections between stories, but nothing that requires familiarity with other books. For example, here we see an encounter between Vox, Damon, and Liam that was in Meltdown, but this time from Vox’s POV. Vox also has a couple of quick conversations with one of the MCs from the upcoming Avalanche. But you can easily jump in here and the books are intended to be read in any order.
I am finding this series a lot of fun and enjoying my introduction to Wray’s work. This is a forbidden love romance, but I liked that Wray takes it further than that to explore some other interesting plot elements as well.
I absolutely love the Ricochet Ridge series, and Vox & Connor’s story is no exception.
Cocky, professional, bisexual menace of a snowboarder meets broody coach with a secret… yes, please.
There’s just the tiniest hint of forbidden running through this that I ate up, mixed with a whole lot of yearning, some genuinely fun moments, and enough plot to keep everything feeling balanced and engaging.
It’s warm, a little angsty, and just a genuinely enjoyable read from start to finish, and it’s only made me more attached to this series.
I received an E-book ARC edition of this novel from The Author Agency in exchange for an honest review. It is Available NOW on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited. www.amazon.com/dp/B0GDHL89XX
This is a 336-page Medium Paced, Angsty Forbidden Athlete x Coach, Secrets, Betrayal, and Healing MM Romance. This is the second book in the RICOCHET RIDGE Series, which is being Speed Released. It can be read as a standalone. (More on that below)
Written in dual first person POV in alternating chapters, this novel picks up before the first book does, and does a flash overlap with the MCs from MELTDOWN making a brief appearance. Vox is a professional snowboarder and has been signed to the same sponsor since he was eleven years old. He has been through a lot in his young life already, having been abandoned by both of his parents. Connor, a retired Olympic Gold Medalist in snowboarding, is hired to coach Vox, control him as a person and teach him control on the mountain. But Connor has secrets of his own, that he isn’t even legally allowed to talk about, making him suffer ever since his retirement with guilt and loneliness.
Their professional relationship starts out how you would expect. After meeting Vox as a reader, you know anyone trying to even approach him would get a fight. He is top tier arrogant. He thinks he is the best (he may be), and that he knows best too. He doesn’t need any help from anyone… including a team he doesn’t want to be apart of or Coach Connor, who had just disappeared from the sports world. Because of this, its is a slow PUSH & PULL start. The banter were Jabs. It was grating on the nerves seeing these two go at it. ……. Until the Turning Point about 40% through, when their past history is revealed and the layer of hurt that it caused.
Not only do they finally admit to their attraction, but they have to keep it a secret, as it is not allowed. Sneaking around in-between coaching sessions. All the while, things about each other come to light, like Vox’s contract and why he is being completely controlled by a singular person and Connor’s debilitating fear and anxiety of the sport that used to be his life and why. But all of this helps their connection and ignites their romance.
Their romance starts to consume them, like a fire started with gasoline. The heat is blazing. Vox’s arrogance doesn’t completely go away, but turns into a fun competition instead, helping Connor along the way, while Connor gets Vox in a more protective situation, showing that he has someone that really does care what happens to him, and not because of who he is in the sporting world.
The Spice was great 4/5 🌶. It made me want to go get coconut oil. LOL!!!! It was hot, sensual, rough, and a little primal. I love when a Bi Man is shown to be verse, when even in this day in age men are still afraid of the P Spot.
There is some ensemble, but this story is mostly just about them and the sport they love. The author does such a great job at giving a look at what athletes go through while on the mountains. Some of the details may have gone over my head, even after googling them, but it just shows that the author didn’t take the easy way out and excluded the sport itself from the story.
While the first novel of this series MELTDOWN was sweet, FALL LINE was biting. I really love the world the author has created, show different aspects of the skiing and snowboarding world, whether it’s just casual riders, professionals in the sport, workers at the resort, etc. It is so well rounded, easily enjoyable, and gripping with topics that are sometimes hard to talk about. She opens this door revealing the characters souls before the reader even has a chance to get comfortable with their blanket and coffee. Go start this series if you haven’t already. There are four books being SPEED RELEASED, one a month. You won’t be disappointed!
I’m having so much fun with this series. Meltdown was sweet and I loved seeing Liam and Damon’s dynamic change and this was sweet as well but Vox and Connor were a different kind of sweet and I enjoyed it!
Both Vox and Conner had insecurities due to past circumstances in life and having them work together to deal with these as their relationship developed was great to see. Vox taking mental notes on what may trigger Conner and learning how to work within those triggers to get him to allow himself to feel comfortable and safe was just as sweet as Conner learning Vox and his fears and making sure to show up for him every time and keeping the communication between them clear. I think this helped Vox understand Conner’s choices without feeling like Connor was letting him down which was important to Vox.
The snowboarding was fun the banter was great! This was fun and I’m glad I picked it up! I’m excited about the next book in the series!
Absolutely adored this book from the jump I’ve been having so much fun with this series, the chemistry between vox and Connor was so thick vox being bratty was my favorite gotta love a bratty mmc, Connor’s back story had me crying like a baby no wonder he stopped professionally i can’t imagine the guilt even though you saved someone’s life last second but they still got hurt immensely, I loved vox so much you could tell he just lived, eat, sleep, breathed snowboarding to find out he was being used for years was just heartbreaking thankfully he had Connor to help him, can’t wait for the next books in the series 😍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
ARC- Review - Fall Line by Jillian D. Wray ⭐ 4 Stars
The push-and-pull between Connor and Vox was so good. The coach/athlete dynamic mixed with the strict no-fraternization rule made every moment feel intense, risky, and impossible to ignore.
What really stood out was the emotional depth. Vox taking the time to understand Connor’s triggers and quietly creating a space where he feels safe was incredibly touching. And Connor showing up for Vox with honesty and consistency? I loved that balance of tenderness and heat.
They truly support each other—Connor is healing from past trauma, while Vox struggles to let people in after being abandoned—and together, they just work.
If you love forbidden romance with angst and high heat, definitely pick this up.
Thank you to @theauthor.agency for my copy in exchange for my honest review!
Omfg what did the author put into this book??? Genuinely asking. Because tell me why I was SAT for every second. I ate this book up. A friend suggested this book to me and I'm so glad I listened. This book was so good. I can already tell that this is one of those books that will stick with me. One of those books that I NEED on my shelf. It's that good. I can't even fully put it into words. I don't think anything I say will do it justice, actually.
Fall Line follows the story of Connor who is coaching Vox. I really enjoyed this sports romance. Its got romance, thoughtful conversation and a lot of self discovery. Vox finds out the truth about his father. Connor supports him in every way he can and we finally get to see the OTHER side of THAT kiss from the previous Ricochet Ridge book 1.
Jillian Wray does it again with the rounded out character arcs, not over the top intimate scenes (they were meaningful), & the found family vibes all the way round.
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I have been waiting for this book. Vox came to us in Meltdown the first book of this series and I knew I wanted to read his book. Vox gets what he wants and his coach is what he wants. They have a fast connection and finally just go for it. Vox helped Conner cover come his fear. Conner helped Vox see who he thought Grey was. This was a good all around book.
This was fun and I loved being back in this world.
Vox and Connor were such a great pairing. They both come with their own insecurities, and I really enjoyed watching them learn each other and grow together. Vox paying attention to Connor’s triggers and making sure he felt safe was so sweet, and Connor showing up for Vox in the same way made their relationship feel really balanced and strong.
Their communication was a big highlight for me. Even when things were hard, they worked through it together, which made everything feel real and earned.
The snowboarding element was fun, the banter was great, and the chemistry between them was 🔥
I also loved the forbidden coach/athlete angle, it added just the right amount of tension without taking away from the heart of their story.
Such a fun, emotional read with great characters and lots of heat. I’m really enjoying this series and can’t wait for the next one.
picked this up thinking “fun sports romance” and instead got emotionally body-slammed down a mountain at full speed and THANK YOU FOR THAT 🏂💥
Fall Line is intense, addictive, and has that sharp, icy edge where everything feels like it could snap at any second. The stakes?? Sky high. The tension?? Absolutely feral. I could NOT put it down.
Connor??? This man is walking around carrying five years of guilt, trauma, and unfinished grief like it’s stitched into his bones. You can feel how much he’s lost. And the way he comes back, not as the same golden legend but as someone quieter, heavier, trying to claw his way toward redemption?? It hit. Hard.
And then there’s Vox.
VOX MONTGOMERY. I need everyone to understand that this man is chaos wrapped in talent and ego and sharp edges. He’s cocky, reckless, a little bit self-destructive… but underneath all of that?? Hurt. So much hurt. Being abandoned by the person who meant everything to him shaped everything about who he is now, and watching that resentment simmer into something else?? I was glued to the page.
Their dynamic is INSANE. The coach × athlete tension is already forbidden, already dangerous… and then you add history, obsession, unresolved feelings, and that constant push-pull of “I shouldn’t want you but I absolutely do”??? It’s like watching an avalanche build in slow motion. You KNOW it’s going to hit, you just don’t know when.
The banter?? Top tier. Sharp, biting, sometimes downright brutal—but always charged with something deeper underneath. Every conversation felt like a match being lit.
And when the truth finally comes out?? When Vox finds Connor broken in the snow and everything shifts?? I was DONE. The emotional payoff wrecked me. All that anger, all that confusion, finally colliding with the reality of what Connor went through… it was messy and raw and exactly what I needed.
Also the snowboarding world?? So vivid. The adrenaline, the danger, the pressure from sponsors, the “one mistake and it’s over” atmosphere—it all adds this constant edge of tension that never lets up. The mountain isn’t just a setting, it’s a threat looming over everything.
And the romance?? Whew. It’s intense, consuming, a little bit reckless in the best way. The kind that feels like stepping too close to the edge and knowing you might fall—but doing it anyway.
This book is about second chances, about healing when you don’t think you deserve it, about letting someone see the broken parts of you and not turning away.
My heart is still somewhere on that mountain, probably screaming into the wind and begging for just one more run ❄️
I knew Vox was trouble from the first book (Meltdown) and I blooming love him! And if you have read book one, we get to see THAT kiss from a different point of view! So good 🤌🏼
In this book we meet Connor - a snowboarding legend who fell of the face of the earth when he had an accident. He's since been stuck in a dead end job working for an insurance company he has no heart for. He gets the chance to be back on the slopes as a coach for a small group of athletes (which include Vox) and jumps at the chance. Even if he can't step foot on a snowboard again, he can't wait to be as close to the action as possible.
When Connor meets Vox he thinks he's an arrogant peice of work (he kind of is but its more cocky confidence in general) because Vox jumps straight to the question of 'where the hell did you go when you fell off the face of the earth' because deep down, Vox always admired Connor, literally looked up to him and Connor disappearing was like he had abandoned Vox, and Vox took it to heart - doesn't help he has abandonment issue, and with fair reason too!
The instant attraction is there but there is a clause in Connor's contract as a coach that forbids him from fraternising with anyone on the team or payroll. But when he finds out Vox is Bi....well he can't stop his mind from running rampant - only to realise Vox feels the same and Vox makes it known, and difficult for Connor to look away! He tries to keep things professional but it's only a matter of time before lines are crossed and the more they work together the less control they have over their feelings towards each other.
We do find out why Connor disappeared from the snowboarding limelight and the reason broke my heart for him, Sam and Louisa. When Connor finally opens up to Vox about it all and his internal struggles my heart was hurting so much for him, but the way Vox brought Connor back to his snowboarding legend life was just amazing! And I loved reading it.
The plot with everything to do with Grey and Vox's father was great and I was rooting for Vox, Connor and Turner the whole time. I was so happy things went down they way they did and was silently cheering for them all.
Vox and Connor really are an amazing couple and my god they are freaky little f*ckers!
I ran to get the bonus scene when I finished the book and it did not disappoint!
Obsessed with this series so far and a can't wait to continue!
The reason Vox dyes the tips of his hair purple - my heart 😫💜
ARC REVIEW Fall Line by @jillian_wray_author ⭐⭐⭐⭐¾ (4.75/5)
I absolutely loved this forbidden romance between pro snowboarder Vox and his coach, Connor. I was begging for them to give in to the scorching chemistry between them, and when they finally did, I spent the rest of the book praying they’d find a way to have a real relationship. They are just so perfect for each other.
The brief glimpse of Vox we got in Melt Down, the first book in the Ricochet Ridge series, showed a funny and chaotic king. While that impression wasn’t wrong, he’s so much more. Vox is all outgoing personality on the outside and an introverted loner on the inside. His abandonment issues broke my heart, especially when it turns out the truth isn’t as black and white as he believed.
I instantly fell for Connor. How could I not? He hasn’t snowboarded since an accident five years ago, and the trauma from that night has left him unable to get back on a board. I can never resist a wounded man, and when you add in his loneliness, he’s basically my dream MMC.
Maybe I have a competency kink because I loved how Vox and Connor are drawn to each other for the same reason — they’re each the best boarder the other has ever seen. Vox grew up idolizing Connor, and Connor feels such pride watching Vox ride. Even when they get off to a rocky start as coach and athlete, there’s definitely a mutual admiration society forming.
The chemistry between them is elite-level. They’re possessive of each other, jealous of anyone else who gets their smiles or touches. Their desire builds until they can’t contain it, and they’re willing to risk everything — Connor’s job, Vox’s place on the team — to be together. One time between them would never be enough.
Most importantly, being together helps them heal. They understand each other in a way no one else ever has, and their vulnerability with one another ultimately allows them to stop feeling alone.
I am loving this series and cannot wait for the next two books.
Tropes: ❄️ MM romance ❄️ athlete x coach ❄️ secret/forbidden love ❄️ healing for both ❄️ forced proximity ❄️ found family
This book follows Vox and Connor. Vox is the current best snowboarder of the world and Connor, who used to be number 1, is hired to coach him. We had a small intro to Vox on book 1 Meltdown and I was very curious of reading about him.
While Vox starts arrogant and full of himself about being current number 1, when he meets Connor, his idol and teenage crush, he has a tremendous character development, which worked very well to the story. Connor is an amazing character, sweet and dealing with pain and suffering. And Vox brings him back to living and not just surviving.
Although first book was not a favorite for me, Fall Line is exactly my cup of tea: strong, appealing to senses, and burning hot. I loved their story and I loved the spice. And speaking of spice, may I say: the spice starts mild... and all of a sudden boom, one of the 🌶️smuttiest🌶️ scenes I have read 🤭
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for this incredible ARC.
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some of my favorite quotes:
I recognize the fire in his eyes, and I know, without a doubt, Vox Montgomery is going to be the most dangerous run I've ever attempted.
Because the way he's looking at me right now is telling me I'm not doing such a great job of hiding how I'm looking at him.
My heart rate is climbing again, and I'm certain he can hear it as it hammers against my sternum. "Please don't tempt me, because I'll give in."
"You've been calling me by my first name since I arrived, and now, in this moment, I'm Coach?" "What can I say? The forbidden appeals to me."
I calm myself by counting the faint freckles on his cheeks and across the bridge of his nose.
If I survive this man, it'll be a miracle.
Am I revealing how deeply I'm caught up in the storm that is Vox Montgomery?
"Nor would I mind being a dirty little secret... as long as I was your secret."
I want Vox to know me, the real me, all of me.
I'm plundering his mouth like it's the treasure hold on a pirate ship.
"Because all last night did was embed you in my system so deeply, I don't think you're ever coming out."
🩶 Coach x Athlete 🤍 MM romance 🩶 Found family 🤍 Forbidden love 🩶 Secrets/revelations 🤍 Psychological healing
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️
I loved everything about this book. Jillian pulled me in from the very beginning. Vox and Connor’s story was everything I didn’t know I needed in my life right now. The cocksure athlete who is everyone’s type, and the reserved coach with a trauma that affects him daily. These two were such a fantastic dynamic duo, with banter, spice, and healing. The flow of this story was perfection. I’m gonna need you to go ahead and read this story! You won’t be disappointed!
Vox is THE top snowboarder, preferring to go solo but his sponsor has other plans. Plans that include a team and a new coach. Much to Vox’s surprise and dismay, Connor Lang coming out of retirement to coach him is a dream come true. Except Vox isn’t going to trust him easily, after all, Connor disappointed Vox in the past. Though Connor doesn’t know that. What ensues in a push and pull full of tension, angst, and A LOT of flirting!
I don’t know what it was about this story that just had me absorbed in it so fully, but I loved it! There was a lot of reflection and growth with the characters, as well as secrets and revelations. I don’t want to give anything away, this is a story that you are going to want to journey with on your own. Just know I hands down, 100% recommend it!
Thank you Jillian for continuing the privilege of being on your team; reading and reviewing your books, and generally just shouting to anyone who will listen to read your books! 🤣
🏂“I know, without a doubt, Vox Montgomery is going to be the most dangerous run I’ve ever attempted.”
🏔️“Well… f*ck. Not just any f*ck, but f*uuuuuuuck.”
🏂“Top or bottom, you’re nobody’s b*tch, Vox.”
🏔️“But with that one swipe of his tongue, I already know I’m a f*cking goner for him. His determination, his drive, his skill on a board, his desire for companionship, his fear of disappointment. F*ck, I understand it all. Once will never be enough, and I can’t have more.”
🏔️“F*ck, I’ve wanted him since I was fourteen years old. Is this a good idea? Hell, no. But control’s never been my strong suit… especially not self-control.”
🏔️“What’s the matter, hotshot? Coach got your tongue?”
🏂“Vox, please. I’m begging you,” Connor whines. “I know you are, baby. And I really f*cking like it.”
Read book one and immediately knew I would need these two in my life.
What do you get when you put two hot as fuck guys together, a demanding sport and a “non fraternization” rule in a close proximity environment? A slow burn with the spiciest tension that explodes into the best feelings fueled lust ever.
I knew I was going to like this, because who wouldn’t enjoy hot guys in snowboards? But especially these two. Vox had me intrigued from the beginning, his cocky persona and his laid back attitude didn’t fully add up and his past was just so sad. I needed him to find his happy, his good thing outside of the sport, but truly it had to be WITHIN the sport. The way his famous crush was just destined for him. My manifestation king.
Now Connor truly brought my heart a little pain. His trauma and the time away from his love of the sport were heartbreaking and I couldn’t be happier when he came back home. He healed and became the man he was meant to be. His longing and fight for Vox were the hottest ever, but giving in? Turning his self hate into a real good thing? Being the man he needed to be for Vox AND himself? I was in love and in awe of him.
I truly cannot get enough of Jillian’s writing. I have already signed up for the rest of the series and will be going back to read her backlog.
Truly grateful to, TAA and Jillian, for this e-arc!
Quotes:
This one's for Connor because he will be mine, just like this first-place finish.
"What's the matter, hotshot? Coach got your tongue?"
There’s nothing like having a man as beautiful, powerful, and talented as Vox place his trust in me.
It’s probably safe to say we can add cock warming to the list of shit I enjoy with Connor.
“Having my cum poured inside your ass wasn’t good enough? You want it filling you from both ends, don’t you?”
Vox tips in first, and as soon as he's over the ledge, working his way down I know without a doubt, I’d follow him anywhere.
"You challenge my concentration, yet demand my focus. You are hands-down the most dangerous run I've ever taken, and you're also the most direct path to my happiness. You, Vox Montgomery, are my fall line."
Fall Line completely stole my heart - hands down my fave of Jillian's books so far! I AM OBSESSED WITH VOX + CONNOR <3 It was the perfect balance of emotion, tension, spice, and heartfelt connection - all wrapped up in a story that was deeply personal and absolutely impossible to put down. We got to follow the journeys of MCs Vox and Connor. They're both navigating their own struggles and emotional baggage from the past. Their individual growth throughout the story was so endearing and really drew me in. Vox is a pro snowboarder in the prime of his career, getting ready to win the Winter Classic Games. He has this big outgoing personality, and seemingly perfect life on the outside, but carries so much under the surface. Connor used to be at the top of the sport, and his sudden departure from the circuit 5 yrs ago is full of mystery. He hasn't been back on a board since, and is hired as Vox's coach for the upcoming games. The athlete x coach partnership starts out rocky, and we get some really good banter as the tension builds between them. But then watching them slowly open up about their pasts felt so raw and authentic. I loved seeing their vulnerability as they supported each other through it all. The heat builds deliciously, and adds just the right level of intensity and purpose to their story. Guys the male moaning! Both MCs finishing in their pants! The edging! ON THE SKI LIFT!!! Let's just say I was not prepared for the heat to have me blushing so many times. Vox + Connor are the epitome of what I yearn for in a romance. The high stakes tension could snap at any moment. Their chemistry OMG! Slow burn with the yummiest payoffs that had me blushing (several times!). Emotion that hit so deeply, and I was rooting for their HEA so hard. Jillian truly delivered something special with this one - an easy 5 stars and my new fave from her. I can't wait for the next book in the Ricochet Ridge series!
Vox is at the hype of his career. He's made a name for himself and he's one of the fastest snowboarders out there. So of course he's a little cocky and knows he's talented. Plus he's hot and good with the ladies, gentlemen and everyone in between. And then Connor comes in who was his idol growing up before he vanished at the peak of his career. Vox has always been inspired by him and he's the one who made him fall in love with snowboarding but he can't help but be a bit salty about Connor up and disappearing without knowing why. And he's about to be even more salty when he finds out that Connor is coming out of the woodwork and is going to be Vox's coach for the upcoming events. Vox isn't about to make it easy for Connor though even if he is older, gorgeous and his idol. He also wouldn't mind getting Connor into bed. Too bad that's forbidden. But when does forbidden stop anyone? It sure doesn't stop Vox from seeing what he wants and going for it even though Connor puts up a front and tries to keep their relationship distant and professional. But that's hard to do when Connor has a hard time keeping his own intrigue and attraction to the younger hotshot snowboarder under wraps. I absolutely loved Connor and Vox and their backstories. Yes, they're different and different ages but both are broken men who see parts of themselves in each other and they both know what pain feels like even if their circumstances are different. I loved how Connor watched out for Vox when things were fishy about Vox's management but he didn't over run him. He was just there for him and voiced concerns and suspicions. And I loved how Vox was really there for Connor and slowly helped him work through his trauma and got him to have the confidence to snowboard again. These two were sweet, spicy and sassy and just over all irresistible to read about. This series just keeps getting better and better and I'm so excited for what's next to come.
Likes: -Balanced mix of sports/fun -Vox's teasing -Insatiable need for each other -Spicy scenes -Character development -World building -References to the title -Innuendoes/Banter -Friendship relationships -Vox helping Connor overcome his biggest struggle, so sweet
Quotes: -"For fuck's sake, Vox. Have mercy on me" -"Sure thing, Coach. But I'm telling you, your asshole is so puckered you could produce diamonds and it's probably not good for your health. I'd love to help loosen that up for you" -"Holy shit, this man is filthy. And I am so here for it" -"He calms my storms while fueling my passions" -"You're an incredible man, Vox Montgomery. It's the honor of my life to call you mine" -"You are hands-down the most dangerous run I've ever taken, and you're also the most direct path to my happiness. You, Vox Montgomery, are my fall line"
This is the second book in the series and I loved it more than the first, and the first one was great. Vox is very sassy, charismatic and passionate about his sport, but he can also be a hot head sometimes and has some family trauma to work through. Connor is a great coach, an even better snowboarder and a man inspired to overcome his trauma with Vox's help. This book has a great mix of plot and a lot of heat with tender moments and vulnerability. I recommend this book if you love forbidden relationships between two men with professional snowboarding careers trying to navigate challenges and come out on top, with the most difficult one being keeping their hands off each other.
FALL LINE is the second book in the Ricochet Ridge series. It can be read as a standalone without issue.
What to expect: 🎿Athlete (Snowboarder) x Coach 🔥Forbidden 🎿Secrets 🔥Psychological Healing 🎿Found Family 🔥MM Romance
Vox lives and breathes snowboarding. When his idol disappeared one day Vox took it personally. He's been gone from snowboarding for the last five years and then just showed up on Ricochet Ridge as his new coach. Vox is pissed and can't keep his reaction to Connor from showing but he also can't help but want Connor. Vox was never sure if Connor was gay but once he knows he has a chance he won't give up even though there are rules about coaches and athletes being together.
Connor went through some horrible things and he can't get his mind right. He hasn't been on his board in years. When he is asked to coach Vox he doesn't know what to expect. He doesn't under where Vox's anger comes from. And he knows he shouldn't find the man attractive but he can't help himself. He could be ruining his career he just got back but he's willing to give it all up for Vox. Can he get over his fear of being back on his snowboard? Will everything crash and burn if they are caught together?
First off I love this series. I am so instantly invested in the characters. Vox and Connor have a chemistry that could melt the snow. They each have their own baggage but Connor hasn't been able to talk about why he gave up his first love (snowboarding) to anyone. When he finally confides in Vox he doesn't feel so lonely anymore. Vox has his own issues and finding out someone you've trusted most of your life really doesn't have your best interest at heart is rough. I can't wait to see what's next for Ricochet Ridge!
I was given a free copy of this book by The Author Agency to read and review.
I really enjoyed Meltdown so this return to Ricochet Ridge was so much fun, and the rivals-to-lovers story delivered exactly what I was hoping for.
Vox is a pro snowboarder with a bratty streak, and Connor is a retired snowboarding legend brought in to coach him. The chemistry between them sparks almost immediately, but their coach–athlete dynamic means their attraction is definitely off-limits… which of course just makes the tension even better.
Vox constantly trying to get under Connor’s skin was hilarious, but underneath all that attitude you could tell he genuinely admired him and wanted a real connection. The push and pull between them—wanting each other while knowing they shouldn’t—was easily my favorite part of the book. Their relationship ended up being surprisingly healing for both of them, and I loved how they pushed each other to be better both on the slopes and in their personal lives.
This book was definitely spicier than Meltdown (not that I’m complaining 👀🔥), and the tension between Vox and Connor made every moment of it worth it.
I had my suspicions about Grey from the start, so it was incredibly satisfying to see Connor help Vox recognize his true colors. Vox reconnecting with his dad was also such a sweet and emotional moment, and I loved that his HEA came in more ways than one.
If you’re looking for a fun, spicy, low-angst MM romance, this series is definitely worth picking up.
Tropes: ❄️ Rivals to lovers 🏂 Coach / athlete (forbidden romance) 😈 Bratty sunshine × grumpy legend 🔥 Lots of spice 💙 Healing through love 👫 Found family vibes 🌈 HEA
The tension between Connor and Vox is strong from the start, and these two had me on edge the entire time. Their push and pull kept me completely invested in what would happen next. Honestly, their interactions made me downright giddy! I found myself smiling through so many of their moments together.
I’ll admit, snowboarding is completely foreign to me, but I loved the way the sport was woven into the story. The way Connor and Vox talk about their craft and what it means to them makes it easy to appreciate how much it shapes their lives and ultimately brings them together.
Both characters have so many layers, and one of my favorite parts of the book was slowly peeling those back as they let each other see sides of themselves they usually keep hidden. They allow each other a level of vulnerability that neither of them typically show, and I loved how they embraced each other fully, even the frustrating parts. It made their connection feel genuine and really sweet.
And wow… this book is spicy. I definitely had to take a few breaks to process before diving back in!
There’s no denying that Connor and Vox fit together perfectly. They bring out the best in each other and help each other grow, but their careers add a huge layer of tension since pursuing a relationship could put everything they’ve worked for at risk.
Overall, Jillian D. Wray wrote a compelling, chemistry-filled story that kept me engaged and wanting more the entire time! I am definitely a fan and can’t wait for Avalanche!
I am obsessed with the men of Ricochet Ridge and let me tell you Connor and Vox do not disappoint. This book had me in the first sentence and I devoured it! Vox Montgomery is cocky, passionate and the best snowboarder there is due to the fact his idol disappeared without a trace 5-years prior this loss drove Vox to be the best of the best. So when his idol comes to Ricochet Ridge to be his new coach this sends Vox in a downward spiral of where has he been? Wanting to gain his respect and at the same time wanting HIM for himself. Connor Lang is harboring a huge secret. He walked away from the only life he ever knew because of a tragedy he has yet to recover from. So when he was offered a job as the new head coach for Vox Montgomery he couldn't say no. Meeting Vox was more than he bargained for, his skills mirror Connor's he is captivating on the mountain but his feelings for Vox are more than a coach and athlete. The passion Vox and Connor have for each is so hot!! Vox trying so hard to get to the reason why Connor left at the height of his career as well as helping him cope with his guilt and gain the confidence needed to get back on the board is so beautifully written. And sweet Connor's inherent need to protect Vox from being taken advantage of. I love how much they love each other and are each other's person even with ironclad contracts and NDA's that could destroy everything they worked for - they are still drawn to each other. I loved this book so much and cannot wait for the rest of the series.