What do you think?
Rate this book
Breaking the Fall
She applied to Search and Rescue to redeem herself. Her ex will decide if she makes the cut.
Fired, broke, and broken, Darby Hayes returns to Crystal Lake in the California mountains determined to rebuild herself. She joins the search and rescue team and immediately lands in a mortifying heap at Cole Harper's feet. Cole is her new team leader, and the man who shattered her heart seven years ago without bothering to explain why.
He's broader now, bossier, and looking unfairly good in that Henley. To stay on the team, Darby must train under his command and trust him with her life. But between cliffside rescues, flash floods, and narrow cave extractions, a different kind of danger Cole is getting too close, and Darby's defenses are crumbling.
And so are his. Because Cole has been keeping a secret since the night he let her go—one that will unravel everything Darby thought she knew about love, sacrifice, and what it means to be enough.
The sharp wit and spice of Ali Hazelwood meets the action of Nora Roberts and Susan Stoker in this steamy second-chance romance about proving your worth and discovering you never had to.
Slow burn to level 4 spicyHe falls firstFirst Person POVProtective MMCSteamy Second Chance RomanceSuspenseful wilderness emergenciesSmall town charm with atmospheric outdoor scenesMedical rescues and suspense
Fired, broke, and broken, Darby Hayes returns to Crystal Lake in the California mountains determined to rebuild herself. She joins the search and rescue team and immediately lands in a mortifying heap at Cole Harper's feet. Cole is her new team leader, and the man who shattered her heart seven years ago without bothering to explain why.
He's broader now, bossier, and looking unfairly good in that Henley. To stay on the team, Darby must train under his command and trust him with her life. But between cliffside rescues, flash floods, and narrow cave extractions, a different kind of danger Cole is getting too close, and Darby's defenses are crumbling.
And so are his. Because Cole has been keeping a secret since the night he let her go—one that will unravel everything Darby thought she knew about love, sacrifice, and what it means to be enough.
The sharp wit and spice of Ali Hazelwood meets the action of Nora Roberts and Susan Stoker in this steamy second-chance romance about proving your worth and discovering you never had to.
Slow burn to level 4 spicyHe falls firstFirst Person POVProtective MMCSteamy Second Chance RomanceSuspenseful wilderness emergenciesSmall town charm with atmospheric outdoor scenesMedical rescues and suspense
- GenresRomanceSecond Chance
360 pages, Paperback
Published January 5, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
March 15, 2026
I really enjoyed the story between Darby and Cole. As far as second chance romances go, this one is actually believable, and I don't begrudge Darby for getting back together with Cole. Their story was so sweet and so raw. My heart hurts for Darby and all that she has been through with her family and her time since leaving Crystal Lake. Cole also hasn't had it easy, his story was too sweet and wholesome, it made me like him all the more. I enjoyed getting a deeper peek into search and rescue and I loved the crew they had. While I'm not an adrenaline junkie, I commend them for their bravery and their willingness to risk their lives to help others.
*Second chance
*Small town
*Search and rescue
*Parental trauma - Darby
Format: ebook
Thank you to Audrey Buchanan and Cracked Pepper Books for the ARC!
I'm excited for Vicky's story, I hope that's book 2!
*Second chance
*Small town
*Search and rescue
*Parental trauma - Darby
Format: ebook
Thank you to Audrey Buchanan and Cracked Pepper Books for the ARC!
I'm excited for Vicky's story, I hope that's book 2!
July 15, 2026
3.5 stars rounded up
Pretty solid second chance romance
Pretty solid second chance romance
August 20, 2026
I want to thank the author for a copy. All opinions are my own.
I always prefer to go in blind. So I skipped the Trigger warnings: Parental emotional abuse and neglect (on-page verbal cruelty and conditional love), a family substance addiction, disordered eating patterns, life-threatening rescue situations, consensual open-door sex, and strong language.
Spice: 🌶🌶
📚This was an easy, cosy light read.
📚Small-town second-chance romance.
📚I enjoyed the writing and thought it was well written.
📚The banter was enjoyable.
📚Found Family
Darby returns to Crystal Lake after 7 years. She wants a new start; she joins the SAR... and of course Cole, the one who broke her heart, is part of this crew too.
Tensions start to run high. Old feelings start to surface, and the truth slowly creeps through the masquerade. There were a few times I wanted more conflict with Darby and her mother, as some issues happening throughout the story felt a bit underwhelming. (Only from my point of view.)
Overall, I enjoyed it, and I can recommend this one if you love a quick, light, cosy romance.🤩
I always prefer to go in blind. So I skipped the Trigger warnings: Parental emotional abuse and neglect (on-page verbal cruelty and conditional love), a family substance addiction, disordered eating patterns, life-threatening rescue situations, consensual open-door sex, and strong language.
Spice: 🌶🌶
📚This was an easy, cosy light read.
📚Small-town second-chance romance.
📚I enjoyed the writing and thought it was well written.
📚The banter was enjoyable.
📚Found Family
Darby returns to Crystal Lake after 7 years. She wants a new start; she joins the SAR... and of course Cole, the one who broke her heart, is part of this crew too.
Tensions start to run high. Old feelings start to surface, and the truth slowly creeps through the masquerade. There were a few times I wanted more conflict with Darby and her mother, as some issues happening throughout the story felt a bit underwhelming. (Only from my point of view.)
Overall, I enjoyed it, and I can recommend this one if you love a quick, light, cosy romance.🤩
February 17, 2026
4.5 Breaking the Fall Stars🪢
Breaking the Fall is a debut novel by Audrey Buchanan and is a must read❣️Darby has returned home after a seven year absence and decides to try something different and join the local SAR Team. Unbeknownst to her though, the man she loved that walked away from her seven years ago is the team leader - will she be able to work alongside him or will the past continuously cause issues?
Coles is the SAR team leader and he carries a secret about why he pushed Darby out of his life seven years ago. He’s nothing like Darby remembers and when the truth comes out, will this break the fragile relationship and trust that they’ve just started to rebuild?
I really enjoyed the story from the get go and enjoyed getting to know the other characters in this story. After that ending I’m eager to find out what happens next and how Vicky, Darby’s best friend moves forward. I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review❤️🩹
Breaking the Fall is a debut novel by Audrey Buchanan and is a must read❣️Darby has returned home after a seven year absence and decides to try something different and join the local SAR Team. Unbeknownst to her though, the man she loved that walked away from her seven years ago is the team leader - will she be able to work alongside him or will the past continuously cause issues?
Coles is the SAR team leader and he carries a secret about why he pushed Darby out of his life seven years ago. He’s nothing like Darby remembers and when the truth comes out, will this break the fragile relationship and trust that they’ve just started to rebuild?
I really enjoyed the story from the get go and enjoyed getting to know the other characters in this story. After that ending I’m eager to find out what happens next and how Vicky, Darby’s best friend moves forward. I received an advanced copy and voluntarily leave my honest review❤️🩹
March 11, 2026
4.5 stars for me.
Darby's coming back home.After seven years she's jobless,no money and decided to volunteer for the SAR team.While struggling with training is hard enough,things can get even harder as Cole her ex boyfriend who broke her heart all those years ago is now her team leader.Her parents made her feel already worthless all her life,and Cole rejection was the last straw,now she need to pretend she can be profesional.Easy right?Wrong.Cole is cold and hot,and soon Darby is more and more confused,does he still have feelings for her?Giving him a second chance is out of question,he broke her heart once so what will stop him to do it again?
Will Darby and Cole remain professional while she's in training?
It was cute second chance romance.I really was feeling Darby struggles at the training,her sarcasm and thoughts had me snorting with laugh,it's not something I would enjoy and I could feel her pain.Her encounter with Cole was so emotional,her pain so raw it was a heartbreaking moment.Cole as a MMC come out as cold at the beginning,I was not so sure about him,but the blushing and his embarrasing speeches soon won me over,he could not be more hot or sweet.The chemistry between them was out of charts,the banter and fun times was a pleasure to read.I really enjoyed this second chance romance,a great first read for me from this author,and will be grabbing more in the future.
Thank you cracked pepper books and author for copy,my review is honest and my own.
Darby's coming back home.After seven years she's jobless,no money and decided to volunteer for the SAR team.While struggling with training is hard enough,things can get even harder as Cole her ex boyfriend who broke her heart all those years ago is now her team leader.Her parents made her feel already worthless all her life,and Cole rejection was the last straw,now she need to pretend she can be profesional.Easy right?Wrong.Cole is cold and hot,and soon Darby is more and more confused,does he still have feelings for her?Giving him a second chance is out of question,he broke her heart once so what will stop him to do it again?
Will Darby and Cole remain professional while she's in training?
It was cute second chance romance.I really was feeling Darby struggles at the training,her sarcasm and thoughts had me snorting with laugh,it's not something I would enjoy and I could feel her pain.Her encounter with Cole was so emotional,her pain so raw it was a heartbreaking moment.Cole as a MMC come out as cold at the beginning,I was not so sure about him,but the blushing and his embarrasing speeches soon won me over,he could not be more hot or sweet.The chemistry between them was out of charts,the banter and fun times was a pleasure to read.I really enjoyed this second chance romance,a great first read for me from this author,and will be grabbing more in the future.
Thank you cracked pepper books and author for copy,my review is honest and my own.
July 8, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Turns out the only thing Breaking the Fall broke… was my reading slump.
I picked up Breaking the Fall without really knowing what to expect. Audrey Buchanan isn’t an author I constantly see recommended on Bookstagram, and that’s exactly why I wanted to give this book a chance. Sometimes stepping outside the books everyone is talking about leads to the best surprises, and that’s exactly what happened here.
Breaking the Fall is a second-chance romance set in a small town, following a group of characters who are part of a rescue team. From the very beginning, the story knows exactly what it wants to be. The plot remains consistent from start to finish, the pacing never drags, and every chapter naturally pushes you to keep reading. It doesn’t rely on unnecessary drama or exaggerated twists to hold your attention, it simply tells its story well.
The real strength of this book, however, is its characters.
I’m not an emotional reader. I rarely cry over books, and it takes a lot for a story to truly make me feel what the characters are going through. Audrey Buchanan managed to do exactly that. Their heartbreak, their doubts, their happiness, and their personal growth all felt authentic enough that I became genuinely invested in their journey.
One of my favorite characters was Vicky. She isn’t just the supportive best friend who’s there to cheer everyone on. She holds the FMC accountable when she needs it most, and I absolutely loved that. Too often, side characters exist only to validate the main character’s decisions. Vicky does the opposite, and I think the story is stronger because of it.
This isn’t a book that completely reinvented the romance genre, and it doesn’t need to. It’s simply a well-written, emotionally grounded story with believable characters, a satisfying pace, and relationships that feel genuine.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt second-chance romance, a cozy small-town setting, authentic friendships, and characters that actually feel like real people, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a chance.
Safe to say I’d trust this rescue team with my life… and my TBR.
Turns out the only thing Breaking the Fall broke… was my reading slump.
I picked up Breaking the Fall without really knowing what to expect. Audrey Buchanan isn’t an author I constantly see recommended on Bookstagram, and that’s exactly why I wanted to give this book a chance. Sometimes stepping outside the books everyone is talking about leads to the best surprises, and that’s exactly what happened here.
Breaking the Fall is a second-chance romance set in a small town, following a group of characters who are part of a rescue team. From the very beginning, the story knows exactly what it wants to be. The plot remains consistent from start to finish, the pacing never drags, and every chapter naturally pushes you to keep reading. It doesn’t rely on unnecessary drama or exaggerated twists to hold your attention, it simply tells its story well.
The real strength of this book, however, is its characters.
I’m not an emotional reader. I rarely cry over books, and it takes a lot for a story to truly make me feel what the characters are going through. Audrey Buchanan managed to do exactly that. Their heartbreak, their doubts, their happiness, and their personal growth all felt authentic enough that I became genuinely invested in their journey.
One of my favorite characters was Vicky. She isn’t just the supportive best friend who’s there to cheer everyone on. She holds the FMC accountable when she needs it most, and I absolutely loved that. Too often, side characters exist only to validate the main character’s decisions. Vicky does the opposite, and I think the story is stronger because of it.
This isn’t a book that completely reinvented the romance genre, and it doesn’t need to. It’s simply a well-written, emotionally grounded story with believable characters, a satisfying pace, and relationships that feel genuine.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt second-chance romance, a cozy small-town setting, authentic friendships, and characters that actually feel like real people, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a chance.
Safe to say I’d trust this rescue team with my life… and my TBR.
January 28, 2026
Darby's character reminds me of someone who has been beaten down emotionally so much that she believes she is worthless, that no one could possibly love her. That she is a complete failure. She literally throws herself into everything she does in order to prove she isn't a failure. After being fired from her job she decides to go back to her childhood home to hide and lick her wounds hoping her parents, especially her mom doesn't find out she is there. Her mom is the worst and one of the reasons that Darby feels the way she does. While there, Darby decides to volunteer for the SAR team. When she shows up for training she realizes that her team leader is Cole her ex boyfriend, another person who makes her feel unloved, worthless and not worth fighting for. Cole broke her heart when he broke up with her for no apparent reason, at least that is what Darby thought. Boy was she wrong! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Cole's character is really just as messed up as Darby's is. Cole is the man that holds everything together for everyone but himself, he is too busy taking care of everyone else. Cole broke up with Darby because he didn't want to hold her back from her dreams, 7 years later he is still in love with her and wants to try and win her back. This is a story about two people who do everything wrong yet strive to get it right. Thru SAR training, rescues, old and new friends they try and find their HEA. Really good book!
January 29, 2026
This book really stayed with me long after I finished it.
It tells the story of a strong but broken woman who’s been carrying a lot of pain for a long time. She ends up back in a place she once thought as home, forced to face family issues she’s spent years avoiding, and honestly… it feels real. Messy, complicated, and emotional in a way that makes you want to hug the main character and shake her at the same time.
What I loved most is how human she feels. She isn’t perfect. She makes bad choices. She shuts people out. But she keeps going. Watching her slowly work through her trauma and start to figure out who she is again is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Then there’s the man she loved seven years ago. Their reunion isn’t overly dramatic — it’s quiet, awkward, and full of unresolved feelings. You can feel how much history they share in every interaction.
The family dynamics hit hard. The book doesn’t sugarcoat how damaging family can be, even when love exists. Healing isn’t easy or fast, and I appreciated that the author didn’t try to wrap everything up in a neat bow. Some wounds don’t disappear — you just learn how to live with them.
By the end, it isn’t about everything magically being fixed. It’s about growth. About choosing yourself. About realizing you deserve love, peace, and a second chance.
If you like emotional, character-driven stories about healing, second chances, and finding your way back to both love and yourself, this one is definitely worth picking up.
It tells the story of a strong but broken woman who’s been carrying a lot of pain for a long time. She ends up back in a place she once thought as home, forced to face family issues she’s spent years avoiding, and honestly… it feels real. Messy, complicated, and emotional in a way that makes you want to hug the main character and shake her at the same time.
What I loved most is how human she feels. She isn’t perfect. She makes bad choices. She shuts people out. But she keeps going. Watching her slowly work through her trauma and start to figure out who she is again is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Then there’s the man she loved seven years ago. Their reunion isn’t overly dramatic — it’s quiet, awkward, and full of unresolved feelings. You can feel how much history they share in every interaction.
The family dynamics hit hard. The book doesn’t sugarcoat how damaging family can be, even when love exists. Healing isn’t easy or fast, and I appreciated that the author didn’t try to wrap everything up in a neat bow. Some wounds don’t disappear — you just learn how to live with them.
By the end, it isn’t about everything magically being fixed. It’s about growth. About choosing yourself. About realizing you deserve love, peace, and a second chance.
If you like emotional, character-driven stories about healing, second chances, and finding your way back to both love and yourself, this one is definitely worth picking up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2026
I devoured Breaking the Fall by Audrey Buchanan in a single day—it was impossible to put down.
Darby is a driven tech engineer whose world is turned upside down when she’s unexpectedly let go from her dream job. Looking for purpose back in her hometown, she joins the local search and rescue team, only to discover that its leader is Cole—the man who broke her heart seven years ago.
This was such a satisfying slow-burn, second-chance romance. The search and rescue element added so much excitement and kept the story moving, making every mission feel high stakes and meaningful. But the real standout was Cole. He was kind, dependable, and completely lovable. Watching the relationship between him and Darby slowly rebuild had me rooting for them from the very beginning.
If you love second-chance romance, small-town settings, and capable characters finding their way back to each other, I highly recommend this one. An easy five-star read for me.
Darby is a driven tech engineer whose world is turned upside down when she’s unexpectedly let go from her dream job. Looking for purpose back in her hometown, she joins the local search and rescue team, only to discover that its leader is Cole—the man who broke her heart seven years ago.
This was such a satisfying slow-burn, second-chance romance. The search and rescue element added so much excitement and kept the story moving, making every mission feel high stakes and meaningful. But the real standout was Cole. He was kind, dependable, and completely lovable. Watching the relationship between him and Darby slowly rebuild had me rooting for them from the very beginning.
If you love second-chance romance, small-town settings, and capable characters finding their way back to each other, I highly recommend this one. An easy five-star read for me.
February 11, 2026
This was a beautiful second-chance romance. Darby grew up enduring verbal abuse from her mother, which deeply affected her self-worth and left her longing for someone who would truly fight for her. Cole is just as emotionally burdened—he’s the one who holds everyone else together, always taking care of others while neglecting himself.
Together, they confront their pasts, work through their struggles, and ultimately earn their happily ever after. I’ve definitely become a big fan of Henley’s lol!! I can’t wait for the next book—especially Vicky’s story.
Together, they confront their pasts, work through their struggles, and ultimately earn their happily ever after. I’ve definitely become a big fan of Henley’s lol!! I can’t wait for the next book—especially Vicky’s story.
February 4, 2026
ARC -read. This was an ok book, a bit meh a bit whatever but overall ok. It was way to detailed in the search and rescue department where time could be spent on developing the characters more. I liked Dharby the FMC, the MMC not so much, he was really boring to be honest and did nothing för me. I am however a bit interested in seeing where the rest of the characters in the book goes in the continuation of the series.
September 12, 2026
This book would make a GREAT MOVIE! I loved every bit of it, especially the part where I was about to enroll in SAR because it was so good.
📈our FMC is learning 🩷
🟢Green flag MMC
🍃Green flag friendship
🍬Hard truths
🥾Action and high stress situations
💦Wet scenes
🌊More wet scenes
🧗♀️Female empowerment
🌠Add*ction and Recovery
❤️🩹 Failure but starting again
🔥Hot MMC.
📈our FMC is learning 🩷
🟢Green flag MMC
🍃Green flag friendship
🍬Hard truths
🥾Action and high stress situations
💦Wet scenes
🌊More wet scenes
🧗♀️Female empowerment
🌠Add*ction and Recovery
❤️🩹 Failure but starting again
🔥Hot MMC.
June 30, 2026
I started this one in the evening and it was (not) a mistake as I'm now posting my review at almost 3am because I couldn't put it down. Whoops!
This one pulled me in immediately and I needed to know more about these characters. Not only are Darby and Cole interesting with personalities that keep you hooked, but the side characters are also great and make you want more from them. I'm really looking forward to the next book after how this one ends.
The search and rescue parts of the book are really cool and not something that's I've read before. I actually just finished a fantasy version of a search and rescue team but it's not fleshed out the way that this one is, with scenes to the rescues themselves and a look into how stressful they can be. It showed me that it's definitely not something I'd want to do IRL but it's certainly entertaining to read.
This was my first book by this author and after getting so hooked on this one from the start, it certainly won't be the last. I look forward to reading more and hope you'll give this one a chance.
This one pulled me in immediately and I needed to know more about these characters. Not only are Darby and Cole interesting with personalities that keep you hooked, but the side characters are also great and make you want more from them. I'm really looking forward to the next book after how this one ends.
The search and rescue parts of the book are really cool and not something that's I've read before. I actually just finished a fantasy version of a search and rescue team but it's not fleshed out the way that this one is, with scenes to the rescues themselves and a look into how stressful they can be. It showed me that it's definitely not something I'd want to do IRL but it's certainly entertaining to read.
This was my first book by this author and after getting so hooked on this one from the start, it certainly won't be the last. I look forward to reading more and hope you'll give this one a chance.
January 29, 2026
I have to say I didn't know what to expect from this book. But I loved it!
The fast paced work of Search & Rescue intertwined with a steamy second-chance love story was just the perfect combination to keep me unable to put this book down.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series!
The fast paced work of Search & Rescue intertwined with a steamy second-chance love story was just the perfect combination to keep me unable to put this book down.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series!
January 21, 2026
I love a good book about second chances. Sometimes things are meant to fall apart so that they can fall back together. Reading Cole and Darbys story really did something to me. I have always been that person that feels like no matter how I try, I will never be enough, that I’m not worthy of love. And Cole, man, he wins boyfriend of the year. Other than making hard choices that were never his to begin with. I’m also guilty of pushing people away so that it hurts less when they do eventually. Honestly, this book gave me some clarity about my own life, and maybe, like Darby, I just some therapy.
June 28, 2026
2nd chance romance meets high stakes job.
This book had me go through so many emotions -- was something going to happen on a SAR mission!? Would Darby let Cole in and give him another chance!? If she did, would it last!? I loved their chemistry from the beginning. I wnjoyed the protectiveness Cole has for Darby while she tried to assert her own independence. I really loved the mix of romance with a little suspense due to the characters first responders job.
This book has been one of my favorite reads this summer. I loved it so much, I already bought book 2 and started it immediately.
2nd chance romance ✔️
Open door spice ✔️
Strong FMM ✔️
Protective MMC ✔️
One tent ✔️
This book had me go through so many emotions -- was something going to happen on a SAR mission!? Would Darby let Cole in and give him another chance!? If she did, would it last!? I loved their chemistry from the beginning. I wnjoyed the protectiveness Cole has for Darby while she tried to assert her own independence. I really loved the mix of romance with a little suspense due to the characters first responders job.
This book has been one of my favorite reads this summer. I loved it so much, I already bought book 2 and started it immediately.
2nd chance romance ✔️
Open door spice ✔️
Strong FMM ✔️
Protective MMC ✔️
One tent ✔️
January 15, 2026
I had such a good time reading this book—like, seriously. I wasn’t expecting to love the author’s humour this much, but by the second page I had already snorted twice. Yes, this is a romance book, but it also has a much deeper meaning.
Both MCs have to work through their own “baggage,” and the ending was sooooo satisfying. The drama wasn’t overdone, but it also wasn’t nonexistent. That balance really worked for me. Though I will say… there were quite a few ankles injured in the making of this story—if you know, you know.
If you’re after a quick read with an emotional romance (not just physical), I genuinely think you’ll enjoy this. Please check the trigger warnings before reading; there is some spice, along with references to addiction and other heavy themes.
Both MCs have to work through their own “baggage,” and the ending was sooooo satisfying. The drama wasn’t overdone, but it also wasn’t nonexistent. That balance really worked for me. Though I will say… there were quite a few ankles injured in the making of this story—if you know, you know.
If you’re after a quick read with an emotional romance (not just physical), I genuinely think you’ll enjoy this. Please check the trigger warnings before reading; there is some spice, along with references to addiction and other heavy themes.
January 19, 2026
Darby and Cole’s story is one from ups and downs. A second chance story with great characters struggles, trust is difficult after what happend before.
However Darby has a strong personality and gives it her all with everything she does . Hot scenes and a happy ending
However Darby has a strong personality and gives it her all with everything she does . Hot scenes and a happy ending
January 19, 2026
It was a sweet, pull at your heart, and realistic love story. one that some could relate too. I loved the development of the characters. 4 stars only because I felt a few more characters personally could've played a bigger role to excentuate the book.
January 13, 2026
This was a great second chance romance. The characters were great and the story was perfect.
I loved that it felt real like I could know the characters in real life.
I loved that it felt real like I could know the characters in real life.
February 13, 2026
I so enjoyed this exciting story. I loved how Darby persevered through so many obstacles and came out on top. Cole never gives up and he is so protective though also full of secrets. The intriguing details and gripping scenes will have you not want to put this book down. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I didn’t want it to end with so many wonderful characters.
July 21, 2026
"SAR policy is to never leave anyone behind. A noble sentiment, but, let me tell you, there is no shame quite like being the reason ten hyper-fit people have to stop and pretend to admire a particularly interesting rock every fifteen minutes while you gasp for air like a beached fish."
Breaking the Fall by Audrey Buchanam - or how to find your way back home and maybe become a better person along the eay
I really, really enjoyed reading this book, despite only giving it four stars. And I will explain that later.
We follow the story of a woman who left her small hometown seven years ago to study and work. She wanted to achieve something, but, as it often happens in life, things fell apart, and she was forced to move back home.
Darby is a 25-year-old woman, and I found her very believable. I'm not going to say she is necessarily likable, because she does things that are not entirely okay. But we all have baggage that we carry. We all have something we need to prove. And I don't believe there is a single person who wouldn't need some self-check at some point in their life. And Darby does. For me, that's what makes her such a great main character. She is flawed, and she actually self-reflects on the things she's not doing well. She questions her own actions. And, thankfully, she has an amazing best friend who isn't afraid to tell her when she's acting like an idiot.
I really enjoyed the rescues they went on and everything they were doing. I found it especially interesting that Darby, as a very small person, managed to find her own way of being useful to the Search and Rescue team. And I think finding your passion in life, like she did, is extremely important. It can absolutely lead to becoming a better person and finally finding your path—not just when it comes to your career, but in life in general. It can help you become a genuinely better person. So yes, I really enjoyed the rescue missions. They were thrilling, fun, and informative. I also really enjoyed the banter and some of the funny moments and lines throughout the book.
The team dynamics of the Search and Rescue team were one of the gems of this book. I wish we'd had more of them. There was someone grumpy, someone very nice, two complete clowns, someone extremely cheerful and always happy to do stuff, and then there was Cole, the team leader. Who is also 25. Which is a little weird for a team leader, but okay. Cole is our male main character, and as these things go, he is surely a green flag.
HOWEVER...
I did not enjoy his intensity. I know this was a second-chance romance, but he came in with heavy speeches and all that before they even had a chance to have some real fun together and actually rekindle their connection. I wanted to see them fall for each other again before we got all the emotional declarations.
I also felt that, very often, things were simply repeated. Both by Darby and Cole. There were conversations where I felt like I had already read the exact same thing several times and it got a little annoying.
There were also moments that I found illogical, or sentences that felt completely out of place.
So even though this was an amazing book, and I really, really enjoyed reading it, and I genuinely loved Darby as a main character because she felt so real (and because she had an amazing best friend) I do feel like these little things occasionally pulled me out of the story.
And that's why I can't give it five stars.
But I would totally, totally, totally recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a little bit of a vanilla second-chance, small-town romance. It was relaxing and calming, and just a genuinely good read.
Breaking the Fall by Audrey Buchanam - or how to find your way back home and maybe become a better person along the eay
I really, really enjoyed reading this book, despite only giving it four stars. And I will explain that later.
We follow the story of a woman who left her small hometown seven years ago to study and work. She wanted to achieve something, but, as it often happens in life, things fell apart, and she was forced to move back home.
Darby is a 25-year-old woman, and I found her very believable. I'm not going to say she is necessarily likable, because she does things that are not entirely okay. But we all have baggage that we carry. We all have something we need to prove. And I don't believe there is a single person who wouldn't need some self-check at some point in their life. And Darby does. For me, that's what makes her such a great main character. She is flawed, and she actually self-reflects on the things she's not doing well. She questions her own actions. And, thankfully, she has an amazing best friend who isn't afraid to tell her when she's acting like an idiot.
I really enjoyed the rescues they went on and everything they were doing. I found it especially interesting that Darby, as a very small person, managed to find her own way of being useful to the Search and Rescue team. And I think finding your passion in life, like she did, is extremely important. It can absolutely lead to becoming a better person and finally finding your path—not just when it comes to your career, but in life in general. It can help you become a genuinely better person. So yes, I really enjoyed the rescue missions. They were thrilling, fun, and informative. I also really enjoyed the banter and some of the funny moments and lines throughout the book.
The team dynamics of the Search and Rescue team were one of the gems of this book. I wish we'd had more of them. There was someone grumpy, someone very nice, two complete clowns, someone extremely cheerful and always happy to do stuff, and then there was Cole, the team leader. Who is also 25. Which is a little weird for a team leader, but okay. Cole is our male main character, and as these things go, he is surely a green flag.
HOWEVER...
I did not enjoy his intensity. I know this was a second-chance romance, but he came in with heavy speeches and all that before they even had a chance to have some real fun together and actually rekindle their connection. I wanted to see them fall for each other again before we got all the emotional declarations.
I also felt that, very often, things were simply repeated. Both by Darby and Cole. There were conversations where I felt like I had already read the exact same thing several times and it got a little annoying.
There were also moments that I found illogical, or sentences that felt completely out of place.
So even though this was an amazing book, and I really, really enjoyed reading it, and I genuinely loved Darby as a main character because she felt so real (and because she had an amazing best friend) I do feel like these little things occasionally pulled me out of the story.
And that's why I can't give it five stars.
But I would totally, totally, totally recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a little bit of a vanilla second-chance, small-town romance. It was relaxing and calming, and just a genuinely good read.
August 24, 2026
🏔️Breaking the Fall - Audrey Buchanan
⭐ 4.5/5
I had SUCH a good time with this book.
Darby was easily one of my favourite parts. She's tenacious, determined and wonderfully flawed in a way that made her feel like an actual person rather than a perfectly polished romance heroine. She makes mistakes, doubts herself and occasionally gets in her own way, but when life knocks her down, this woman gets straight back up and keeps going.
And I loved that Cole doesn't just tolerate that fire in her - he respects her for it.
Their slow burn was DELICIOUS 🤌🏻 There's history and hurt between them that can't simply disappear because they're attracted to each other again, and I appreciated that the story gives them space to work through what happened and who they've both become since. Watching trust slowly rebuild alongside all that unresolved chemistry made the relationship feel so much more satisfying.
I also loved that the romance wasn't the only relationship that mattered. Darby and Vicky's friendship was such a highlight. Vicky is exactly the kind of friend everyone needs: supportive, loyal and ready to provide a much-needed reality check when Darby's brain starts doing Darby things 😂
But one of the biggest surprises for me was how much I enjoyed the Search and Rescue side of the story.
The training, rescue scenarios and technical details weren't simply there to give Cole an excuse to look hot in outdoor gear - although I'm certainly not complaining about that. They made SAR feel like a genuine passion for Darby and gave the story another layer beyond the romance. You can really feel the respect behind the way this world is written, and I became genuinely invested in watching Darby earn her place on the team.
Audrey Buchanan's writing was also right up my street: light-hearted, sarcastic and incredibly easy to fly through. Darby's self-deprecating internal monologue had me giggling more than once because… Girl, same. 😂
I also absolutely loved the the found-family feeling that develops around Darby. Watching her rebuild her life while gradually finding a community where she truly belongs added so much warmth to the story. By the end, I wasn't only invested in Darby and Cole - I was attached to the whole group 🥹
And can we talk about how perfectly book two has been set up?!
Felix was such a lovable golden-retriever side character, and every little glimpse we got of him just made me more curious about what's hiding underneath all that charm and sunshine. I already know I'm going to eat up seeing him step into the spotlight, and I cannot WAIT to learn more about him.
This is exactly how you get me invested in a series: make me fall for the main couple, casually introduce a bunch of lovable side characters, and then dangle their future HEAs in front of me. 😂
⭐ 4.5/5 - a funny, heartfelt and deliciously slow-burn second-chance romance about rebuilding trust, healing old wounds and refusing to stay down when life knocks you off your feet.
⭐ 4.5/5
I had SUCH a good time with this book.
Darby was easily one of my favourite parts. She's tenacious, determined and wonderfully flawed in a way that made her feel like an actual person rather than a perfectly polished romance heroine. She makes mistakes, doubts herself and occasionally gets in her own way, but when life knocks her down, this woman gets straight back up and keeps going.
And I loved that Cole doesn't just tolerate that fire in her - he respects her for it.
Their slow burn was DELICIOUS 🤌🏻 There's history and hurt between them that can't simply disappear because they're attracted to each other again, and I appreciated that the story gives them space to work through what happened and who they've both become since. Watching trust slowly rebuild alongside all that unresolved chemistry made the relationship feel so much more satisfying.
I also loved that the romance wasn't the only relationship that mattered. Darby and Vicky's friendship was such a highlight. Vicky is exactly the kind of friend everyone needs: supportive, loyal and ready to provide a much-needed reality check when Darby's brain starts doing Darby things 😂
But one of the biggest surprises for me was how much I enjoyed the Search and Rescue side of the story.
The training, rescue scenarios and technical details weren't simply there to give Cole an excuse to look hot in outdoor gear - although I'm certainly not complaining about that. They made SAR feel like a genuine passion for Darby and gave the story another layer beyond the romance. You can really feel the respect behind the way this world is written, and I became genuinely invested in watching Darby earn her place on the team.
Audrey Buchanan's writing was also right up my street: light-hearted, sarcastic and incredibly easy to fly through. Darby's self-deprecating internal monologue had me giggling more than once because… Girl, same. 😂
I also absolutely loved the the found-family feeling that develops around Darby. Watching her rebuild her life while gradually finding a community where she truly belongs added so much warmth to the story. By the end, I wasn't only invested in Darby and Cole - I was attached to the whole group 🥹
And can we talk about how perfectly book two has been set up?!
Felix was such a lovable golden-retriever side character, and every little glimpse we got of him just made me more curious about what's hiding underneath all that charm and sunshine. I already know I'm going to eat up seeing him step into the spotlight, and I cannot WAIT to learn more about him.
This is exactly how you get me invested in a series: make me fall for the main couple, casually introduce a bunch of lovable side characters, and then dangle their future HEAs in front of me. 😂
⭐ 4.5/5 - a funny, heartfelt and deliciously slow-burn second-chance romance about rebuilding trust, healing old wounds and refusing to stay down when life knocks you off your feet.
July 23, 2026
***Thank you to Audrey Buchanan & Cracked Pepper Books for the review copy. All opinions are my own.***
Breaking the Fall introduced me to a niche of contemporary romance I did not know existed, but I am feral for now; search-and-rescue. It is more than just a small-town, second-chance romance; it offers insight into the realities faced by search-and-rescue teams.
You can tell throughout that Buchanan has put hours of research and care into making sure her depictions of search-and-rescue scenarios. There’s a really passion there that translates well using the characters to convey both her respect and excitement. But, not only does Buchanan put care and passion into her research, she creates real, believable characters with their share of scars from the world around them. She makes them overcome emotional hurdles along with physical ones, giving them flaws, allowing them to make mistakes, but also giving them the chance to be better and do better by owning their mistakes and working towards correcting them.
Our FMC, Darby, would resonate with the millennial generation since she is a chronic people-pleaser who believes that her worth is only tied to what she can produce. Facing rock bottom, Darby searches for a passion, finding it in joining the search-and-rescue team in Crystal Lake. When faced with the challenges of a team that doesn’t believe in her and a team lead that she shares a romantic history with, she does what most high-achieving people-pleasers do: throws herself into it with no regard for her health or safety, only the goal of proving everyone wrong. This is an unhealthy way of life, but allows space for her and Cole to explore a new relationship and offers some very sweet, tender scenes that make you root for them to get back together.
Speaking of Cole, not only is this man swoon-worthy in a Henley, but he’s thoughtful, kind, and will go out of his way to take care of others, even if it means putting himself last on the list. He’s willing to sacrifice his own needs and happiness if it means those around him are okay. He also has a protective side, sometimes too much for his own good. Cole made a perfect match for our guarded Darby, and owned up to his mistakes when confronted. He waited seven long years for her and would have waited longer still for his high school sweetheart.
This romance is a slow burn, but when the heat gets cranked up, it gets hot fast. The second-chance romance felt well-earned, starting with stolen glances and painful confessions, a “there was only one tent” situation, and finally their first (but definitely not last) spicy moment together.
There are some heavier topics in Breaking the Fall, but Buchanan tackles them flawlessly. From a sister struggling to overcome addiction to an abusive mother, we see what makes Darby and Cole the people they are and watch their journey to overcome the scars left behind by them. This creates a base for the two of them to work as a couple, tackling problems together and protecting one another from toxicity and coming to the other’s defense. Burdens like that are best carried together, a lesson that Darby and Cole learn throughout Breaking the Fall.
This was an incredible start to the Crystal Lake Search and Rescue series. Audrey Buchanan is a talented author and one to watch out for. I would daresay that she is going to be the next big contemporary author, alongside names like Ana Huang and Ali Hazelwood. Now, if you will excuse me, I am going to order the next book in the series, Safer Ground, because I cannot wait to return to Crystal Lake.
Breaking the Fall introduced me to a niche of contemporary romance I did not know existed, but I am feral for now; search-and-rescue. It is more than just a small-town, second-chance romance; it offers insight into the realities faced by search-and-rescue teams.
You can tell throughout that Buchanan has put hours of research and care into making sure her depictions of search-and-rescue scenarios. There’s a really passion there that translates well using the characters to convey both her respect and excitement. But, not only does Buchanan put care and passion into her research, she creates real, believable characters with their share of scars from the world around them. She makes them overcome emotional hurdles along with physical ones, giving them flaws, allowing them to make mistakes, but also giving them the chance to be better and do better by owning their mistakes and working towards correcting them.
Our FMC, Darby, would resonate with the millennial generation since she is a chronic people-pleaser who believes that her worth is only tied to what she can produce. Facing rock bottom, Darby searches for a passion, finding it in joining the search-and-rescue team in Crystal Lake. When faced with the challenges of a team that doesn’t believe in her and a team lead that she shares a romantic history with, she does what most high-achieving people-pleasers do: throws herself into it with no regard for her health or safety, only the goal of proving everyone wrong. This is an unhealthy way of life, but allows space for her and Cole to explore a new relationship and offers some very sweet, tender scenes that make you root for them to get back together.
Speaking of Cole, not only is this man swoon-worthy in a Henley, but he’s thoughtful, kind, and will go out of his way to take care of others, even if it means putting himself last on the list. He’s willing to sacrifice his own needs and happiness if it means those around him are okay. He also has a protective side, sometimes too much for his own good. Cole made a perfect match for our guarded Darby, and owned up to his mistakes when confronted. He waited seven long years for her and would have waited longer still for his high school sweetheart.
This romance is a slow burn, but when the heat gets cranked up, it gets hot fast. The second-chance romance felt well-earned, starting with stolen glances and painful confessions, a “there was only one tent” situation, and finally their first (but definitely not last) spicy moment together.
There are some heavier topics in Breaking the Fall, but Buchanan tackles them flawlessly. From a sister struggling to overcome addiction to an abusive mother, we see what makes Darby and Cole the people they are and watch their journey to overcome the scars left behind by them. This creates a base for the two of them to work as a couple, tackling problems together and protecting one another from toxicity and coming to the other’s defense. Burdens like that are best carried together, a lesson that Darby and Cole learn throughout Breaking the Fall.
This was an incredible start to the Crystal Lake Search and Rescue series. Audrey Buchanan is a talented author and one to watch out for. I would daresay that she is going to be the next big contemporary author, alongside names like Ana Huang and Ali Hazelwood. Now, if you will excuse me, I am going to order the next book in the series, Safer Ground, because I cannot wait to return to Crystal Lake.
February 5, 2026
When I was chosen to be part of the arc team for this book. And I can honestly say I was skeptical if I was going to actually enjoy this book.
I was so hooked come the second chapter I couldn’t put the book down.
This is a heartbreaking story
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Slow burn to level 4 spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
He falls first🤭
First Person POV
Protective MMC🥵
Steamy Second Chance Romance❤️🩹❤️🩹
Suspenseful wilderness emergencies🆘
Small town charm with atmospheric outdoor scenes 🏘️
Medical rescues and suspense⛑️❤️🔥
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Gave this book 4.9
Darby was in love with Cole and he broke her heart making her think she wasn’t worthy of love so she left and build a future for her self 7 years later she lost her job and went back to crystal lake and was staying in her moms cabin hiding away. deciding to join the SAR team and got accepted to do so. Until the first day and her SAR team leader is no one other then Cole. The one who shattered her heart 7 year ago when he broke up with her with no explanation and now she had to deal with him. She always thought she wasn’t worthy of love and her mother drilled that in her head she wasn’t good enough she was the worst. Darby was a damaged girl from her mom to Cole. But she never got over Cole no matter how hard she tried.
Cole was still in love with Darby and finely tells her why he broke up with her and didn’t try to get her to stay. She told him she was accept to Stanford and that same night he broke up with her so he wasn’t holding her back so she could go and make her dreams come true which she did but left her lonely and struggling. Cole is a great character in this book he is strong and protective of his family and her and it’s so sweet. They got a second change to make the love of his life fall back in love with him and he isn’t going to let her go this time or so we thought.
But Darby found her home where she least expected and SAR team made her more happier then her coding career. The team mates felt like family and even tho her and Cole did everything wrong there try to make everything right between them to reach there happily ever after.
Enjoyed the spicy parts of this book. It was a lot but it’s was in my opinion just the right amount! Definitely had that deep love in every sense!! They were made for each other.
I honestly was sad that this story stop I wanted so much more. But hopefully it will continue in the next book which I cannot wait to read it. I hope to read more bout Cole and Darby. But want to know more about Vicki (darbys bff) 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Thank you so much for allowing me to be on ur arc team. I enjoyed it and ur book so much :)
I was so hooked come the second chapter I couldn’t put the book down.
This is a heartbreaking story
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Slow burn to level 4 spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
He falls first🤭
First Person POV
Protective MMC🥵
Steamy Second Chance Romance❤️🩹❤️🩹
Suspenseful wilderness emergencies🆘
Small town charm with atmospheric outdoor scenes 🏘️
Medical rescues and suspense⛑️❤️🔥
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Gave this book 4.9
Darby was in love with Cole and he broke her heart making her think she wasn’t worthy of love so she left and build a future for her self 7 years later she lost her job and went back to crystal lake and was staying in her moms cabin hiding away. deciding to join the SAR team and got accepted to do so. Until the first day and her SAR team leader is no one other then Cole. The one who shattered her heart 7 year ago when he broke up with her with no explanation and now she had to deal with him. She always thought she wasn’t worthy of love and her mother drilled that in her head she wasn’t good enough she was the worst. Darby was a damaged girl from her mom to Cole. But she never got over Cole no matter how hard she tried.
Cole was still in love with Darby and finely tells her why he broke up with her and didn’t try to get her to stay. She told him she was accept to Stanford and that same night he broke up with her so he wasn’t holding her back so she could go and make her dreams come true which she did but left her lonely and struggling. Cole is a great character in this book he is strong and protective of his family and her and it’s so sweet. They got a second change to make the love of his life fall back in love with him and he isn’t going to let her go this time or so we thought.
But Darby found her home where she least expected and SAR team made her more happier then her coding career. The team mates felt like family and even tho her and Cole did everything wrong there try to make everything right between them to reach there happily ever after.
Enjoyed the spicy parts of this book. It was a lot but it’s was in my opinion just the right amount! Definitely had that deep love in every sense!! They were made for each other.
I honestly was sad that this story stop I wanted so much more. But hopefully it will continue in the next book which I cannot wait to read it. I hope to read more bout Cole and Darby. But want to know more about Vicki (darbys bff) 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Thank you so much for allowing me to be on ur arc team. I enjoyed it and ur book so much :)
August 9, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I went into this book having never read a romance centered around Search and Rescue before, and I genuinely didn't expect to love it as much as I did.
One of my favorite parts was just how much of the story was actually dedicated to SAR. We get to see the training, simulations, missions, and the amount of work and dedication that goes into it. I didn't even realize before reading this that Search and Rescue members could be volunteers, and learning about everything they give of themselves to do this work made that part of the story even more fascinating to me. I loved that SAR wasn't simply a backdrop for the romance—it felt like an important part of Darby's journey.
And Darby... I connected with her SO much more than I ever expected to.
There's something incredibly relatable about being in your late twenties and still feeling lost or like you haven't figured out exactly where you're supposed to be in life. Starting over is hard, and watching Darby struggle with that feeling of missing something in her life hit surprisingly close to home for me. I loved watching her discover a sense of purpose through SAR and seeing what finding something she genuinely cared about did for her.
She's also hilarious. 😂 Her inner monologue was easily one of my favorite parts because there were so many moments where I thought, "That is literally something I would think."
Then we have Cole. 🥹 I loved what he brought to Darby's story and how he grounded her while still allowing her to be completely herself. Their connection felt natural, and I loved watching their relationship unfold alongside everything else happening in Darby's life. I also thought the balance between romance, spice, personal growth, and SAR was really well done. There was enough romance and spice to keep me invested in their relationship without taking the focus away from the larger story.
If I had one personal wish, it would have been getting Cole's POV too! There were definitely moments where I was dying to know what was happening inside that man's head. But that's much more of a personal preference than an actual criticism of the book.
I also have to mention the side characters because they added SO much to the story. Felix was definitely a favorite of mine, and I'm already excited to read his book next!
I expected to enjoy this story, but I didn't expect to walk away connecting with Darby as deeply as I did. There's something really special about watching a character who feels lost discover something that makes her feel like she's finally found a piece of herself. Even after finishing, that part of her story has stayed with me.
An unexpected five-star read, and I can't wait to continue this series. 🤍
I went into this book having never read a romance centered around Search and Rescue before, and I genuinely didn't expect to love it as much as I did.
One of my favorite parts was just how much of the story was actually dedicated to SAR. We get to see the training, simulations, missions, and the amount of work and dedication that goes into it. I didn't even realize before reading this that Search and Rescue members could be volunteers, and learning about everything they give of themselves to do this work made that part of the story even more fascinating to me. I loved that SAR wasn't simply a backdrop for the romance—it felt like an important part of Darby's journey.
And Darby... I connected with her SO much more than I ever expected to.
There's something incredibly relatable about being in your late twenties and still feeling lost or like you haven't figured out exactly where you're supposed to be in life. Starting over is hard, and watching Darby struggle with that feeling of missing something in her life hit surprisingly close to home for me. I loved watching her discover a sense of purpose through SAR and seeing what finding something she genuinely cared about did for her.
She's also hilarious. 😂 Her inner monologue was easily one of my favorite parts because there were so many moments where I thought, "That is literally something I would think."
Then we have Cole. 🥹 I loved what he brought to Darby's story and how he grounded her while still allowing her to be completely herself. Their connection felt natural, and I loved watching their relationship unfold alongside everything else happening in Darby's life. I also thought the balance between romance, spice, personal growth, and SAR was really well done. There was enough romance and spice to keep me invested in their relationship without taking the focus away from the larger story.
If I had one personal wish, it would have been getting Cole's POV too! There were definitely moments where I was dying to know what was happening inside that man's head. But that's much more of a personal preference than an actual criticism of the book.
I also have to mention the side characters because they added SO much to the story. Felix was definitely a favorite of mine, and I'm already excited to read his book next!
I expected to enjoy this story, but I didn't expect to walk away connecting with Darby as deeply as I did. There's something really special about watching a character who feels lost discover something that makes her feel like she's finally found a piece of herself. Even after finishing, that part of her story has stayed with me.
An unexpected five-star read, and I can't wait to continue this series. 🤍
October 1, 2026
This contemporary romance took me by surprise in the feels department and how quickly I found myself being team Cole and Darby forever 🥹
💜Steamy Second Chance Romance After 7 Years
⛰️He Fell First Then & Never Stopped
💜Protective Hero & Guarded Heroine
⛺Spicy Slow Burn & Only One Tent
💜Small Town Mountain Charm
⛰️High-Stakes, Suspenseful Search & Rescue Missions
💜“It’s Always Been You”
After watching her career implode around her, Darby ends up back in her mountain hometown of Crystal Lake. Needing an outlet, Darby applies to the local Search and Rescue team, only to find her ex, Cole, is the team leader. Cole, the same man who broke her heart at eighteen with no explanation, and now the universe has decided that the man who looks ridiculously good-looking in a Henley will be the person she has to trust with her life on every dangerous rescue. With each mission, Darby’s defenses begin to crumble and she’s left wondering if she’s been wrong about Cole for the last seven years…
The angst of it all! Cole and Darby have history from when they were in high school and when you’re young, you don’t always know how to make the best decisions during times of heightened emotions. During their seven years apart, Darby has tried to hate Cole and Cole never stopped loving her. Both Cole and Darby are filled with raw, unguarded pain for very different reasons – Cole dealing with almost losing his sister to addiction and then Darby leaving within days of each other, and Darby, her upbringing with absent parents whose love was conditional. Once they’re back in each other’s orbit, it’s apparent that Darby struggles to love herself, trust and is finding herself, and Cole is the greenest of protective green flags who wants to prioritize Darby’s happiness, even if it means losing her again. And the suspense? Whew! I felt all the STRESS on each mountain rescue, and when the adrenaline fades, it takes WORK for these two to find their footing – it’s relatable and worth the wait! Plus the chemistry? DELICIOUS!
Story:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice:🌶️🌶️.5/5
💜Steamy Second Chance Romance After 7 Years
⛰️He Fell First Then & Never Stopped
💜Protective Hero & Guarded Heroine
⛺Spicy Slow Burn & Only One Tent
💜Small Town Mountain Charm
⛰️High-Stakes, Suspenseful Search & Rescue Missions
💜“It’s Always Been You”
After watching her career implode around her, Darby ends up back in her mountain hometown of Crystal Lake. Needing an outlet, Darby applies to the local Search and Rescue team, only to find her ex, Cole, is the team leader. Cole, the same man who broke her heart at eighteen with no explanation, and now the universe has decided that the man who looks ridiculously good-looking in a Henley will be the person she has to trust with her life on every dangerous rescue. With each mission, Darby’s defenses begin to crumble and she’s left wondering if she’s been wrong about Cole for the last seven years…
The angst of it all! Cole and Darby have history from when they were in high school and when you’re young, you don’t always know how to make the best decisions during times of heightened emotions. During their seven years apart, Darby has tried to hate Cole and Cole never stopped loving her. Both Cole and Darby are filled with raw, unguarded pain for very different reasons – Cole dealing with almost losing his sister to addiction and then Darby leaving within days of each other, and Darby, her upbringing with absent parents whose love was conditional. Once they’re back in each other’s orbit, it’s apparent that Darby struggles to love herself, trust and is finding herself, and Cole is the greenest of protective green flags who wants to prioritize Darby’s happiness, even if it means losing her again. And the suspense? Whew! I felt all the STRESS on each mountain rescue, and when the adrenaline fades, it takes WORK for these two to find their footing – it’s relatable and worth the wait! Plus the chemistry? DELICIOUS!
Story:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice:🌶️🌶️.5/5
February 2, 2026
Breaking the Fall – Audrey Buchanan
“I am going to die.”
And honestly? That opening line tells you everything you need to know about this book’s energy.
Breaking the Fall is a second-chance romance wrapped in adrenaline, grief, and unfinished love. Darby is freshly burned by the tech world—laid off, betrayed, and hollowed out—and impulsively joins a volunteer Search and Rescue team in her hometown, hoping physical danger might quiet the emotional wreckage. What she doesn’t expect is Cole Harper: her first love, the boy who shattered her heart seven years ago, now her SAR team leader.
What follows is a slow, emotionally charged collision between past and present. This isn’t a romance that rushes forgiveness. Audrey Buchanan lets the resentment breathe. The miscommunication hurts. The longing hurts worse. Every shared rescue, every almost-kiss, every quiet domestic moment is weighted with history and things left unsaid. Cole isn’t rewritten as a perfect man—he’s flawed, guarded, and painfully human—and Darby’s journey is just as much about reclaiming her worth as it is about falling back in love.
The SAR setting adds real stakes. The rescues are tense, visceral, and grounding, mirroring Darby’s internal fight to stop treating her own life as expendable. And when the romance finally ignites, the intimacy feels earned—raw, emotional, and deeply connected, not just physically but psychologically. This is one of those books where the love scenes don’t just turn up the heat; they crack characters open.
At its core, Breaking the Fall is about being seen—really seen—after failure, after abandonment, after believing you were easy to forget. It’s about love that never fully disappeared, only went quiet.
If you love:
second-chance romance
forced proximity
competent, protective MMCs
emotionally wounded FMCs
high-stakes settings + deep feelings
…this one will absolutely wreck you in the best way.
💔➡️❤️🩹 Highly recommend.
“I am going to die.”
And honestly? That opening line tells you everything you need to know about this book’s energy.
Breaking the Fall is a second-chance romance wrapped in adrenaline, grief, and unfinished love. Darby is freshly burned by the tech world—laid off, betrayed, and hollowed out—and impulsively joins a volunteer Search and Rescue team in her hometown, hoping physical danger might quiet the emotional wreckage. What she doesn’t expect is Cole Harper: her first love, the boy who shattered her heart seven years ago, now her SAR team leader.
What follows is a slow, emotionally charged collision between past and present. This isn’t a romance that rushes forgiveness. Audrey Buchanan lets the resentment breathe. The miscommunication hurts. The longing hurts worse. Every shared rescue, every almost-kiss, every quiet domestic moment is weighted with history and things left unsaid. Cole isn’t rewritten as a perfect man—he’s flawed, guarded, and painfully human—and Darby’s journey is just as much about reclaiming her worth as it is about falling back in love.
The SAR setting adds real stakes. The rescues are tense, visceral, and grounding, mirroring Darby’s internal fight to stop treating her own life as expendable. And when the romance finally ignites, the intimacy feels earned—raw, emotional, and deeply connected, not just physically but psychologically. This is one of those books where the love scenes don’t just turn up the heat; they crack characters open.
At its core, Breaking the Fall is about being seen—really seen—after failure, after abandonment, after believing you were easy to forget. It’s about love that never fully disappeared, only went quiet.
If you love:
second-chance romance
forced proximity
competent, protective MMCs
emotionally wounded FMCs
high-stakes settings + deep feelings
…this one will absolutely wreck you in the best way.
💔➡️❤️🩹 Highly recommend.
August 15, 2026
This was my first read by Audrey Buchanan, and honestly, I was surprised by how much I fell in love with it. It felt like a slice of life, with a sense of humor in every line or two that made me feel like I was listening to my best friend telling me a really good story. Her writing felt effortless and touching at the same time, and I loved how lighthearted the story felt despite the danger of the rescue missions.
The stages the MCs went through to find their way back to each other felt so believable. I found their thought process, dialogue, and actions very logical, which I always appreciate when an author grounds her characters in reality. I also loved the scenes the author creates and all the little physical cues and mannerisms she uses to describe the characters. The way they move, react, fidget, or make those small unconscious gestures made everything feel so real. Those little details added so much life to the characters and their interactions. Everything happened at a realistic pace without ever feeling boring or unnecessarily stretched. Every chapter kept me engaged, and I loved all the side characters. Especially Vicky, she's a true girl's girl. And I also need a Felix in my life lol. But the romance? Grounded, sweet, and my God, it felt so real 🥹 It made me remember why I fell in love with romance novels in the first place. With each interaction between the MCs, I found myself either smiling or moved to tears. It definitely touched my heart, and honestly, what more could I ask for from a romance? 💘
This really was a refreshing surprise. I'll definitely be continuing this series and looking out for more books from Audrey Buchanan because she just made the list of my favorite romance authors 🫶🏻 If you enjoy a true love story with forced proximity, found family and a second chance romance that feels earned and not tropey, then you definitely should pick this book up. Seriously. Like, right now. Thank me later 💖
The stages the MCs went through to find their way back to each other felt so believable. I found their thought process, dialogue, and actions very logical, which I always appreciate when an author grounds her characters in reality. I also loved the scenes the author creates and all the little physical cues and mannerisms she uses to describe the characters. The way they move, react, fidget, or make those small unconscious gestures made everything feel so real. Those little details added so much life to the characters and their interactions. Everything happened at a realistic pace without ever feeling boring or unnecessarily stretched. Every chapter kept me engaged, and I loved all the side characters. Especially Vicky, she's a true girl's girl. And I also need a Felix in my life lol. But the romance? Grounded, sweet, and my God, it felt so real 🥹 It made me remember why I fell in love with romance novels in the first place. With each interaction between the MCs, I found myself either smiling or moved to tears. It definitely touched my heart, and honestly, what more could I ask for from a romance? 💘
This really was a refreshing surprise. I'll definitely be continuing this series and looking out for more books from Audrey Buchanan because she just made the list of my favorite romance authors 🫶🏻 If you enjoy a true love story with forced proximity, found family and a second chance romance that feels earned and not tropey, then you definitely should pick this book up. Seriously. Like, right now. Thank me later 💖
January 21, 2026
Breaking the Fall is a high-stakes ascent toward self-worth and forgiveness. In the contemporary romance space what more could you ask for… this read is a breath of fresh mountain air! Not only is it witty and fast paced but it is also suspenseful in the most jagged, heart-pounding way! What a fantastic read!
The world building is phenomenal! The characteristic of the action within feels well thought-out and researched, making it so easy to slip in and enjoy it! I was so caught up it felt like I was living out the scenes not just reading them! The action is high-powered and high-stakes and I loved every second!
The main Female characters journey is refreshingly relatable. Her journey isn’t just about second chances at love, it’s full of emotional and physical hurdles and obstacles that she must overcome, and only she herself can discover her self-worth again! She is full of grit and determination-I absolutely love the strong female lead!
The chemistry between the main female character and the main male character is all consuming tension filled steam! If you love forced proximity tropes, you must pick this read up! Breaking the Fall handles the second chance at love trope with maturity and grace. It not only addresses the reason for their breakup without making the tension feel arranged. The focus remains on the main characters growth in the here and now. It questions the idea that we must earn love or demonstrate our value through achievements, offering emotional recognition for us readers along for the ride.
My Final Verdict:
Breaking the Fall is a read that feels like the perfect blend of the precise, witty rugged, gripping atmosphere of an action novel with the soft, sweet, and seemingly romantic feels that come along with a romance novel. It deals with the heavy topics of surrender and secret-keeping but never loses the hopeful sequence that makes a great romance.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The world building is phenomenal! The characteristic of the action within feels well thought-out and researched, making it so easy to slip in and enjoy it! I was so caught up it felt like I was living out the scenes not just reading them! The action is high-powered and high-stakes and I loved every second!
The main Female characters journey is refreshingly relatable. Her journey isn’t just about second chances at love, it’s full of emotional and physical hurdles and obstacles that she must overcome, and only she herself can discover her self-worth again! She is full of grit and determination-I absolutely love the strong female lead!
The chemistry between the main female character and the main male character is all consuming tension filled steam! If you love forced proximity tropes, you must pick this read up! Breaking the Fall handles the second chance at love trope with maturity and grace. It not only addresses the reason for their breakup without making the tension feel arranged. The focus remains on the main characters growth in the here and now. It questions the idea that we must earn love or demonstrate our value through achievements, offering emotional recognition for us readers along for the ride.
My Final Verdict:
Breaking the Fall is a read that feels like the perfect blend of the precise, witty rugged, gripping atmosphere of an action novel with the soft, sweet, and seemingly romantic feels that come along with a romance novel. It deals with the heavy topics of surrender and secret-keeping but never loses the hopeful sequence that makes a great romance.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews