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Wintermore #3

Fall or Fly

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Este Skylar is grounded.

Six months after surviving a plane crash, she’s terrified to fly, leaving her promising career as a pilot in ruins. Exhausted by sleepless nights, all she wants is to switch off, and a trip to her dad’s best friend’s cabin in Wintermore is the perfect excuse.

Nico Harland is haunted.

For twenty years, his grief over his sister’s death has made him hide from the world. Now, at forty-seven, he’s finally ready to try living again. But when an unexpected spring snow triggers an avalanche, he finds himself trapped with his best friend’s twenty-six-year-old daughter, the one person who understands his nightmares as intimately as her own.

They shouldn’t want each other. He’s too old for her; she’s off-limits, and he promised her dad he’d take care of her. But boundaries blur fast when the only peace they find is together, and what starts as comfort becomes impossible to resist. Trapped together, their connection deepens into something that could either heal their broken pieces or shatter them completely.

Fall or Fly is a spicy, age gap, dad's best friend romance with a happy ending. It's the third book in the Wintermore series, but can be read as a standalone. Full content warnings can be found on the author's website.

318 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 28, 2026

72 people are currently reading
666 people want to read

About the author

Sophie Snow

11 books412 followers
Sophie Snow lives in Scotland with her husband and cat, Pumpkin (who she loves dearly, even if he does bite.)



She writes spicy romance books with messy, queer characters and too many Taylor Swift references to count. She has been in love with love stories for as long as she can remember, and writing them as songs and novels since she was twelve.

A forest fairy in a past life, Sophie loves spending time in nature, drinking too much coffee, and trying out more hobbies than she can keep up with.

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5 stars
191 (46%)
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167 (40%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
Profile Image for cat.
268 reviews70 followers
Review of advance copy
April 22, 2026
This had everything I should’ve loved. Snowed in, forced proximity, two damaged people finding comfort in each other… but it just moved way too fast for me.

We’re literally snowed in by chapter three, and from there it’s straight into intense feelings with almost no buildup. She’s already wanting him, dreaming about him, and I was just sitting there like… you JUST met this man?? It leaned heavily into instalove, and instead of feeling deep, it came across more like trauma clinging to trauma without enough exploration. 🥲

The age gap didn’t help either. I’m already picky with this trope, and the way it was handled just felt… awkward at times. Especially with the daddy kink element (some scenes were not hitting the right way 😭).

That said, the writing is good, the premise is interesting, and the spice is definitely there. But everything—emotions, healing, relationship development—felt rushed and crammed in, especially toward the end.

The ONLY reason this got bumped to 3 stars instead of 2 is that third act. It finally pulled me in and had me paying attention. Talk about crazy jump scare.

Overall: good idea, decent execution, just way too fast to feel believable.

things to know about the book ↓

❄️ age gap (she’s 26 / he’s 47)
❄️ dad’s best friend
❄️ snowed in / forced proximity
❄️ daddy kink
❄️ instalove

spice rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
swearing: yes

Thank you Love Notes PR & Sophie Snow for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

⸻⸻⸻

・❥・⁀➷ pre-read

this is such a cutie cover 🩵🩵 ready for some snowed in/forced proximity action
Profile Image for Lauren (lololovesthings).
885 reviews90 followers
May 3, 2026
3.5 stars.

"Fall or Fly" by Sophie Snow is an age-gap forced proximity romance with good characters and lots of healing. I enjoyed this book for the most part. I am not the biggest fan of insta-love, and the FMC and MMC fall for each other reeeeeeeeeally quickly. They are snowed in for less than a week together and have already fallen so terribly hard for each other that they basically can't stand being away from each other??? Ehhhh. I didn't always believe it was anything other than forced proximity and/or boredom, until the last 15%-ish. I do like how the main characters, Este and Nico, help each other heal from their respective traumas. This exploration of mutual, similar shared traumas makes their bond stronger, in my opinion. I also like how Nico takes an interest in Este's reading habits. Despite the insta-love set-up, there does manage to be some excellent tension between the two of them. The spice elements are so good, though! Sophie Snow is always one of my go-tos for fan-your-face level hot spicy scenes. The stuff that happens in the third act surprised me a little bit! This one is pretty enjoyable and is not too terribly long.

Thank you to Sophie Snow and Love Notes PR for the complimentary ALC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Profile Image for Baby Got Books.
345 reviews25 followers
May 4, 2026
I loved this. This was a good mixture of some of my favorite things like well done age gap, hurt comfort, competency kink and some light daddy kink thrown in.


I liked that Celeste (Este) was a grown up with a whole life and a solid self worth even though she was in a bit of a bad place with the plane crash. That plane crash felt even more devastating when you find out the full details about how the main pilot who was her friend died mid flight during some kind of malfunction that required her to do an emergency landing of a commercial plane full of people and that she was injured during it.


She pretty much seduces him but in a very upfront way that felt fun and not skeezy.


I liked that Nico was already in a place where he was attempting to be less reclusive and change his life from his self imposed prison in the woods. His connection to Este did seem like it forced that agenda to move quicker but not just because of her and them hooking up. If anything him trying to solve this for himself brought her to him.


The daddy stuff which I can be a fan of fit but also was funny the way it came up between them. She called him that a little ironically when flirting and both were very surprised how much they liked that dynamic even noting that neither explored that kind of thing previously.


Being stranded in a gorgeous cabin in the mountains with two cute dogs and a hot competent man who can make stuff and cook with my ebook for 2 months sounds like my actual dream.


I liked the conclusion and the reveal to her parents (one of her dads being Nico's old childhood friend) it all felt very adult.


Even though this was more about them coming to terms with the things they were both hiding from and them figuring out if this is more than just sexual chemistry and loneliness pulling them together all in basically one setting I still felt immersed in them and their world.


If you like this type of thing this is definitely on the better end of those things with a good mix of sex and emotions.
Profile Image for Kelsey-rose💘.
922 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 16, 2026
Thank you to love notes pr for this arc. I’ve been a fan of Sophie snow since I first read naughty or nice in 2024 . Since then I’ve read every book of hers apart from the one that’s now been taken down and being re-edited and 2 of this books ( 3 including this one) have been as arcs .

It’s always an honour to read Sophie snow books

This has the daddy kink in it for all you daddy kink lovers . It’s also a book that has more sex in than emotional connection. - but emotional connection is there . I do think although this book is short considering it’s under 300 pages it’s a fun read . It’s frustrating at some points and truly is definitely a 3 star read imo - but it’s fun - it’s enjoyable- it’s got the usual Sophie snow charm in it .

I do wanna be honest tho this book didn’t hit the way Sophie’s other books have . Maybe it’s because the last 2 books of hers have been ff ( sapphic) and this is mf - but this doesn’t hit the same way . I feel myself missing the fmcs from the past 2 books.

But it also unfortunately doesn’t hit the same because ofc now I judge books more harshly - what I once woudve swooned at / loved I now side eye - but this is still an enjoyable read just not exactly what I’m looking for in a romance these days . I would still recommend this to people who want a short read that is high spice and set over the span of 1-2 months .

I do very much love Celeste the fmc of this book and her dealing with her trauma ( GETTING INTO A PLANE ACCIDENT). Celeste was a pilot ( co - pilot ) in the past . But obviously and accident happens - on one of the planes ( aka a crash ) . SHE now has trauma - due to crash and what she witnessed during that crash . I feel for her deeply - I just don’t think a fling 6 months after it happens with your dads best friend - while stranded in a cabin on a mountain together ( sex wise and emotion wise ) is the way to get through that trauma- even if she does have a therapist .

- the mmc is the brother of the fmc in spicy or sweet ( the past book ) . And the fmc is a brand new character.

The 3rd act was crazy yet enjoyable- and it didn’t have a 3rd act breakup which is always a win

Tropes :
- best friends daughter
- DADDY KINK ( she calls him daddy - he calls her angel)
- Dads best friend
- forced proximity
- age gap - 26 yr old fmc - 47 yr old mmc
- no 3rd act breakup
- snowed in ( literally from the 3rd chapter in)
- lowkey insta love / lust )
- both have trauma
Profile Image for han ♡.
284 reviews4 followers
April 27, 2026
"i did that. i made her smile like that."

the tropes drew me all the way in, it just moved a bit too fast for me.

the characters are snowed in by the first few chapters, and este, our fmc, almost immediately starts wanting nico, our mmc. my problem with this is that he's essentially a stranger, despite her dad being his best friend, and that it was extremely insta-lusty (not a fan of that trope). este also seemed incredibly immature for her age, and while we're talking about age, their age gap (and the fact that they're strangers) is brought up far too many times throughout the book. i don't know exactly how many times it was brought up, but it was enough to be uncomfortable and give me the ick. age gap is one of my favourite tropes, but this one wasn't handled well imo-- and when paired with the daddy kink, it felt very weird. one of este's dads kept telling her to "take care" of nico, which was very odd to me because she literally does not know him in the slightest, so what does he mean by that?

i did very much enjoy the writing style and the imagery-- i could picture everything perfectly in my head and it was definitely cozy and cute. the third act was so bingeable, and i really liked that este helped heal something in nico that no one else has been able to. they both healed and helped each other in different ways, which i really really enjoyed. definitely looking forward to reading more of sophie's books int he future!

if you're looking for a spicy and fast-paced read, this one is for you!

thank you to the author and lovenotes pr for the e-arc! 💌

❆ age gap
❆ snowed in
❆ forced proximity
❆ dad's best friend
❆ no third act break up
Profile Image for Sarah S..
87 reviews
April 27, 2026
Sophie does it again. Everyone is sleeping on this author, okay? Her stories are the perfect balance of heart, hilarity, spice, and tough stuff that will make you cry, but you will be so glad you read it by the end.

I have been wanting Nico’s story for so long and what a treat to finally have it! He is Shay’s brother if you’re familiar with Sophie’s other books in the Wintermore series. He’s a recluse, and condemned himself to a mountain cabin after their sister died.

He is finally trying to reconnect with his best friend after all these years, and invites him and his family up to the cabin to visit. Enter Este, our FMC. She’s trying to process through her own trauma, and the result is this truly beautiful story Sophie has given us.

Added bonus? Daddy shmink. Thanks for that, Sophie :)
10/10 would recommend this book.
Profile Image for Sarah.
24 reviews21 followers
May 2, 2026
Enjoyed the book. I liked the representation of therapy and trauma in the book.
Profile Image for Sophie.
89 reviews5 followers
April 25, 2026
Fly or fall by Sophie Snow (ARC)



⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️



To me, romance lives or dies by the quiet moments.

Sophie Snow has created a story that feels both tender and emotionally grounded, anchored by two characters who don’t just fall in love, they grow into it. Nico is, without question, a standout. It’s easy to see why he lands firmly in top tier book boyfriend territory; he’s layered, attentive, and emotionally present in a way that feels genuine rather than idealised.

What really makes the novel shine, though, is the dynamic between Nico and Este. Their relationship isn’t built on grand gestures or over the top drama; it’s built on trust, vulnerability, and the way they gently push each other beyond their comfort zones. They are one another’s foundation. There’s a sense of mutual care that runs through every interaction, making their connection feel earned and deeply satisfying.

The pacing is also great. The story unfolds smoothly, allowing both the romance and the individual character arcs to breathe and develop. Even the spicier scenes are thoughtfully integrated. They enhance the emotional stakes without ever derailing the plot or feeling gratuitous.

But the real magic lies in the small moments; the lingering glances, the quiet conversations, the in between spaces where love actually takes root. Cooking together. Reading together. Just existing together. Those scenes carry the emotional weight of the story and make the romance feel intimate and authentic.
Profile Image for Kay - kayreads_romance .
403 reviews39 followers
May 5, 2026
Thank you so much for Sophie Snow for this early copy!
All thoughts and opinions are my own <3

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Find more on my IG @kayreads_romance

⚠️ !! Please be sure to check any TWs before diving in !! ⚠️

What to expect:
* Age gap
* Daddy kink
* Dad’s best friend
* Forced proximity
* Snowed in
* No 3rd act breakup
* Pilot FMC
* HE reads smut to her!!
* “Spit on it, baby.”

Spicy chapters:
9
11*
12
14**
17
20
23
29

*partial chapter
** solo

My thoughts while reading:
🚨ALERT SPOILERS AHEAD🚨

“Mild age play” 👀

“Previously in Wintermore” THANK YOU SOPHIE! From all the girls w bad memories, you are appreciated 💕

“I’m going to die out here, and my dads are going to find my Kindle and all the kinky shit on it when they recover my body.” Killer opening line hahaha

Mimi the mini!!!!!!

SHOW DADDY WHERE IT HURTS ANGEL OH MY GOD

He’s reading her kindle to her omgggg

“I blow on your tea before I give it to you because you burned your tongue the other day. You stubbed your toe on the stairs, and I sanded down the corners of every step to make them rounder. I put rubber mats out on the porch because it gets slippery when it’s wet, and I don’t want you to fall. Do you really think I’d do anything that would put you in danger, angel?”

“That’s my girl.” I’m feral

“Of course it’s not too much,” I murmur, rubbing my free hand over her back. “You were made for this, weren’t you, angel? You can handle everything Daddy has for you.” AHHHHHHH

This was, I think, the most emotionally raw book from Sophie we’ve gotten so far. This was such a beautiful book 💕
Profile Image for Jessica.
52 reviews
April 28, 2026
4.5
.
“Like falling & flying all at once” 🩵
Fall or fly is the 3rd book in the wintermore series and I think it might be my favourite one. I loved getting to know nico better after meeting him in sweet or spicy. He was such a recluse I couldn’t picture how this story would go.
Insert Este, Nicos best friend’s daughter and 21 years his junior and we finally got to see the side of him I was hoping for. 😻
.
This was the perfect grumpy MMC that I needed to get me back in my romance era. The way he was taking care of her even when he was suffering himself. Him stealing her kindle to see what she was reading and then that scene 😉(you’ll need to read it to find out what am on about)
.
I loved meeting Este, Sophie did a great job of writing her character and sharing the trauma she had been through. She fitted perfect into the story and how she brought him out of his cabin and back into real life was beautiful to read.
.
Sophie is slowly becoming one of my favourite authors. I can’t wait to start another one of her series 💞
.
Thank you to lovenotes.pr & Sophie Snow for giving me the opportunity to read this one! 💌💘
Profile Image for abs.
64 reviews6 followers
April 25, 2026
‘fall or fly’ is the third book in the interconnected romance series ‘wintermore’ by sophie snow. i have not read any of the others in the series, but it catches you up with the others stories easily enough. i’d give this three and a half stars if i could. it’s a quick, super enjoyable romance with two interesting leads, este and nico. though a romance, there is focus on them both individually as they work through their own trauma. i think romance enjoyers looking for an enjoyable and somewhat fast read will certainly love this book. and i’ll definitely be checking out some more of sophie snow’s work.

thank you to love notes pr for the arc ⭐️
Profile Image for Madison.
558 reviews18 followers
April 15, 2026
I am a sucker for a grumpy MMC who has hidden himself away from the world 😍 Nico is the epitome of he hates everyone but her. He just has so much love and care to give and all I can say is Este is pretty darn lucky.

I love how these two characters gravitated towards each other. Their trauma bond was written so well, and the emotional and mental journey these characters go on together is beautiful. They're two missing pieces of a jigsaw puzzle.

Nico and Este are just so good together, and they deserve all the happiness in the world.

If you love an age gap, dad’s best friend romance, this is definitely the book for you.

Thank you to Love Notes PR and Sophie for the ARC.
Profile Image for Mandee.
21 reviews1 follower
May 2, 2026
This was such a ride! I enjoyed this quite a bit. I was expecting it to be sweet and spicy but I wasn’t expecting as much emotion as I got. Lovely surprise for me there. I loved the dynamic and how they flowed and existed together. Just such a good time!
Profile Image for Les.
23 reviews
May 2, 2026
AMAZING. Sophie never disappoints! The way they both help each other heal & move on from their past was just ahhh I can’t even put into words.
“I’m flying. I’m fucking flying” sobbed. Thank you Sophie snow and love notes pr for this arc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Alexandria (Ink Stained Sorceress).
155 reviews3 followers
April 6, 2026
THIS BOOOOOK?! Firstly, thank you SO much to Sophie Snow for allowing me to read this as an ARC as part of her content team.

Listen, when I think I can't love a book by her more, she then writes another one. Fall or Fly absolutely is my favorite Wintermore book for sure, but it doesn't take away from how much I love all of her books and series.

Nico and Este were just *chef's kiss*. Their trauma bonding, the emotional and mental health growth, was just also so well cared for and well-written. Their relationship was equal parts loving and spicy. I loved Nico so much; he was such a great and caring MMC for Este, and always wanted the best for her, and it was just so heart wrenching at times.

Overall, without going into spoilers, they were so GOOD together, and I was rooting for them the entire time. I'd never demand more of an author, ever. But, I will say that I would not be upset if we got more of Este and Nico in the future. But if we don't, it ended in just the right way for me to be happy.

If I could give this more than 5 stars, I absolutely would.
Profile Image for Gemma Tyte.
35 reviews2 followers
April 23, 2026
Sophie Snow has a gorgeous way with words and if she writes a book I’m going to read it and love it and this book was no exception. I want to stay in Wintermore forever. This story follows Este and Nico it’s lovely and incredibly relatable. They have a soft, reliable yet spicy love that was so comforting and cosy to read. I hope you love this book as much as I have, my tea collection has grown exponentially since starting this book and I’m blaming Nico for my new addiction!
Profile Image for Aimee.
389 reviews10 followers
April 28, 2026
Thank you to Sophie Snow and Love Notes PR for providing me with an arc of Fall or Fly.

I absolutely adored this next installment of the Wintermore series. This series all are age gap romances and this one was a romance between two people learning to deal with traumatic events that happened to them. Our fmc recently was in a plane accident and is trying to figure out what her life will be in the future and then she gets stuck in the mountains with her dad’s best friend who is still dealing with the trauma of a car accident decades prior. I absolutely adored this addition to the series and I can’t wait to see what is next.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
149 reviews2 followers
May 3, 2026
Sophie’s books always bring me joy and I was so excited for Fall or Fly! Este and Nico stole my heart! I couldn’t put this book down and when I finally finished it, including stop thinking about it.

The bond that Este and Nico have is truly magic and my heart can rest easy knowing these two have each other. Getting a glimpse of Nico is Spicy or Sweet I knew he was going to break my heart once I got to be inside his head. Este is my new favorite and I knew I was going to love her when I saw we shared the love of spicy books, emotional support kindles and our men a bit older.

I cannot wait for you all to get your hands on Nico and Este’s story! I can’t wait to go back to Wintermore!

I received this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Genevieve.
145 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy
April 27, 2026
When I finished Sophie Snow’s “fall or fly” I wanted to just sit with it. I love to read. I am a devourer of worlds (in print). I frequently finish a book and either write the review while everything is fresh in my mind, start another book especially if it’s in a series (or if I’ve finished a reread), or tackle some bit of adulthood that I’ve been procrastinating while finishing the book. Sometimes, however, I find myself sitting back in my chair, closing my eyes, and feeling perfectly at peace. Let’s see if I can adequately express why.

First, some logistical highlights. If you, like me, take the “interconnected stand alone books do not need to be read in order” to heart, and therefor read them out of order, you are going to LOVE Sophie Snow’s prologue, “PREVIOUSLY IN WINTERMORE…”

Este’s sister wins Enabler of the Year… or maybe that should be cheerleader. And since she becomes Este’s cheerleader in ::checks header:: Chapter 5, it doesn’t feel like a spoiler to tell you how much I absolutely loved that the pending romance wasn’t about to be a secret for the entire book. And it was from both sides because Nico called his sister as well after things started getting steamy. Quick Public Service Announcement – if you have a hard time laughing quietly, and don’t want to wake people up, don’t read chapter 5 after bedtime, or maybe run the water in the sink or something.

When I read “snowed in” and he’s a reclusive mountain man I was expecting insta-love, but it really wasn’t. Is it fast? Yes. There is insta-attraction, they’re a couple of good looking human beings and they’re attracted to each other, and Nico berates himself for it, but something that doesn’t come up in the book that I couldn’t stop thinking of is related to trauma and how he’s been hiding away for 20 years. Nico is 47, but his trauma took place at 25 and then he locked himself away from the world. In some ways he really doesn’t have any more life experience than Este, and in other ways he has less. And while they started having sex at whatever point it was, the love part of the relationship built over almost 2 months of companionship, conversation, and caring for each other.

The daddy kink was lightly done. Este is established as a heavy reader, and happens to be reading a book series in which different books feature different kinks. That said, this is not a Daddy Dom situation, the “age play” is minimal, and mostly related to Este calling Nico “Daddy” (which she does not call either of her fathers, their terms being Pops and Dad) and Nico being in control in the bedroom – something that is addressed in communication and healthy boundaries.

The first kiss you guys. It did me in; that whole body, something in the movie is about to go Big Bang so you’re literally on the edge of your seat leaning forward almost holding your breath and you just know you’re going to end up bouncing in your seat like a little kid except then the bang goes bang and instead of feeling like a spring has been sprung you’re just. Still. In awe. Laser focused on the page and enthralled.

You want good things for Nico and Este, you can’t help it, you watch how they are with each other, how they take care of each other, how they’re present to each other and accept each other *as they are* and not as they wish they would be BUT also challenge each other to grow and heal and to challenge themselves and you want that healing for them and you go back and you check the blurb and the tropes to see if this is a guaranteed HEA book…

I loved knowing in advance that there would be no third act breakup, and I was DYING to know how a HEA would be set up given the mountain recluse/commercial pilot from Chicago situation, and all I can say is – SHUT THE FRONT DOOR!

The longer I sit here, the more Easter eggs I realize were dropped throughout the book and the perfection of this book keeps growing. This is a fantastic book, and I loved everything about it. Seriously y’all. Read. This. Book.

And because I'm a little flakey and this came from the publisher not my usual platform I forgot to mention this was an ARC, but the review is totally voluntary.
Profile Image for Megan Soria.
113 reviews
May 6, 2026
Holy SNOWW❄️

NGL was not expecting to enjoy this as much as I did.. however I had a feeling the "Daddy" kink would get me.
First off I LOVE me an age gap story/ main characters! I personally have a large age gap with my partner so its just something I can relate to but also enjoy reading about since its not the "norm." I know this trope isn't for everyone but when its done right... its RIGHTTTT😏

Este our FMC is the eldest daughter, who followed in her father's footsteps in aviation, experiences everyone's worst nightmare- a plane crash- but not just being on the plane, but being forced to pilot one, leaving her responsible for 100s of lives. Suffering through some pretty bad PTSD & trauma, she quite literally grounded herself, refusing to ever step foot back or near a plane in the near future.
In hopes to for a lil R&R, her dad's plan a holiday to visit & stay with 1 of their best friends, Nico at his remote cabin in the woods of Wintermore.
But as luck would have it a snow storm hits altering everyone's plans. Este is the only one who ends up making it- but barely. Driving Mimi the Mini up a 1 lane vertical incline road in the snow was not on her bingo card. As fate would have it Nico hears her coming just in the nick of time to catch her before she falls, no literally cause she passes out the minute she gets the car parked lol.
Fast forward these 2 are snowed in for the next month until the snow melts & the single road leading up & down the mountain clears up. But both Nico & Este find they have a lot in common & also a lot to work through- & what better way to heal than open up to the man your stranded with?! And it doesn't hurt that he's "hot", even thought he's Este's dads age.

Nico has been carrying around decades worth of trauma & guilt for a car crash he feels responsible for. Which resulted in 1 of his sisters dying. Finding comfort in talking & just being in Este's orbit, he starts to open up & heal some of those old scars he's been repressing. But it also opens another door to an attraction he never saw coming. Sometimes forced proximity is TOO hard to resist.
I don't think I'd ever want to be stranded in a remote cabin with no civilization for a month, but I would definitely be ok being stranded with a Nico!! The heat is palpable & is in no way slowing down no matter what the weather is.

As Nico & Este's relationship heat up the reality of "getting back to normal" starts to surface, but what if Este didn't go home?
With another near death AXEcident

almost losing Nico, Este realizes what she actually wants in her life moving forward, & that includes Nico.
Even though their journeys of healing brought them together, both Este & Nico found a safe place to land & love each other.
If you're into:
💘Forced proximity
🕰️Age Gaps
❤️‍🩹Trauma bonding
🏡Small town
👨‍❤️‍👨Gay dads
🪓🔥and a recluse anti social mountain man
THIS BOOK IS FOR YOUUU!
Thank you LNPR for sending this ARC it was definitely a hit! Cant wait to go back & catch up on books 1 & 2! Also shout out to SS for the context intro of some of the characters, that definitely helped kick of this book.
4.3⭐️
Profile Image for tiana ♡.
325 reviews32 followers
May 4, 2026
Age-gap, snowed in together...! Let's talk about Fall or Fly. ❄️✈️

3.25 stars! 💫

Thank you so much to Love Notes PR and the author for the free ARC of this book. This is my honest, voluntary review.

I'm a fan of age-gap romance books, it's such an angsty trope and, with the added drama, it can deliver the best vibes. 🤭 The added drama was certainly here (dad's best friend, both of them snowed in with nowhere to go), as well as the angst! Some things worked well, some things weren't for me. Let's discuss!

‧₊ ᵎᵎ 🧸 ⋅ ˚✮

❄️ ⌗ romance

Some scenes between Este and Nico were really sweet! I actually loved the whole tea collection moment and how domestic some scenes felt. Any time a romance book includes the "we sleep better in the presence of each other" I'm truly, hand-on-heart the biggest sucker for it. It gets me every single time! 🥹 I also found the acts of service in this really sweet. I love it whenever a couple just shows up and does all these little things for each other.

All these elements I really enjoyed, I just wish it were longer before feelings came about. 😭 Este and Nico are great together, however I felt like we didn't get enough time with them truly getting to know each other before feelings started to develop. The chemistry was wonderful and certainly spicy (😮‍💨) but it felt as if big feelings developed way too fast and in general, it felt like we reached certain stages in the relationship without much build-up. 😅 There were moments when this relationship came across as "insta-lovey" to me. Some insta-love/insta-lust stories have worked for me in the past so it's not an issue with the trope per se, but it's how abrupt it felt here going from really not knowing each other to big declarations and sentiments. 😫 This might work for someone else, however it didn't work for me unfortunately.

❄️ ⌗ characters

The main characters, Este and Nico, are kind of difficult to approach when reviewing this book. The issue I'm having is, I can tell you so much about how compassionate both are for each other, how they show up for one another and learn how to be someone to lean on. How they learn how to take care of each other and how to voice what they want. Simultaneously, I'm struggling to describe their individual character growth because it manifests predominantly within the relationship aspect and not much individually for them as two characters. I'm not sure if this will make sense but it's like they're acting co-dependently instead of together. 😅 I think again, my issue in general was the pacing and the time-frame of the story. Sadly it wasn't letting me fully fall in love with them individually and as a couple. 😭
There are several secondary characters in the story and I did really like the found family aspect and the scenes with all the characters together. 💝
We get some references to the previous books in this series and some hints about books to come! Some really intriguing stories there and some couples whose stories I'm interested in reading. 👀

❄️ ⌗ other notes

I know I've mentioned several elements which didn't work for me in this book but I did, overall, like the writing. I'm intrigued by this author's other works so I'll have a look and see if there's something which piques my interest! 💖 I'm really sad I didn't love this more as it does have a lot of elements I usually adore in romance. This of course doesn't mean that it can't be for someone else! I'd recommend checking it out and seeing if this is a story you'd enjoy. 🥰

Please remember to check out trigger warnings for this one due to the trauma discussed and some of the elements depicted in the story. 💝❄️

‧₊ ᵎᵎ 🧸 ⋅ ˚✮
Profile Image for Keeli.
13 reviews
May 3, 2026
I just finished Fall or Fly, and I can already tell it’s most likely going to be my top rated read of May. Such an easy 5 star read, could easily get me out of a slump. I finished a chapter, then went back to the start of it and read it all over again, just because I loved it so much. My wife started reading over my shoulder, then immediately downloaded the book herself and read it alongside me. This was my 4th Sophie Snow book, but the first one in the Wintermore series that I have read, and I’m so excited to go back and read the others!

What I loved:
- First and foremost, the spice was TOP NOTCH
- The romance
- The humour
- The healing & character growth
- World & other characters

The spice
I’m no stranger to SPICY spicy books, and this spice was written incredibly well. It had the tension, the wit, the teasing, the taboo, the desire they both felt and wanting to give into it, and their separate ‘f*ck it’ moments where they do finally give in.



The romance
The romance was *chefs kiss*. The longing, the care and concern they have for each other, the desire to see the other person happy, the genuine solid connection they form from being completely understood by another person, for the first time. The small acts of kindness, of looking out for each other, noticing small things about each other, and feeling so seen when the other noticed things about them. The romance really had me giggling and kicking my feet.



The humour
Some truly incredible one-liners, and hilarious narration. Este is so witty and bratty, and I want to be her when I grow up.







Healing & character growth
Both Este and Nico survived severely traumatic events at different times in their lives. Nico’s trauma happened more than 20 years ago, while Este’s happened only 6 months ago. Nico shut himself off from the world, and was happy to live the rest of his life that way. Meanwhile, Este is making strides to help herself heal. Nico is fiercely protective and proud of Este, and his budding relationship with her starts making him want to heal his trauma as well, to be better & feel worthy of her.


World and other characters
Every character introduced had a story, a background, or at least some depth to them. Even though we spent most of the book in the mountain, snowed in with Este and Nico, the supporting characters were still enjoyable to read about and I felt like we got to know them throughout the book, despite minimal interactions with them.
Profile Image for Judith.
9 reviews
April 28, 2026
Reseña en Español:

Lo primero, muchísimas gracias a Sophie Snow y a Love Notes PR por haberme permitido leer este arc.
Este libro ha sido la prueba una vez más, de que más gente debería leer a Sophie, su forma de escribir te engancha desde la primera palabra, y es prácticamente imposible que no te encariñes con todos los personajes, ya sean los protagonistas o personajes secundarios.

Desde que leí Spicy or Sweet quería conocer más sobre Nico y finalmente aquí está su historia! Si habéis leído los demás libros sabréis que es el hermano de Shay y que vive recluido en las montañas con sus perros sin relacionarse con nadie a menos que sea necesario. Pero, tras una nevada muy intensa, se queda atrapado en su cabaña en las montañas con Este, la hija de su mejor amigo.

En este libro lo que vemos principalmente es su historia con Este, y debo admitir que adoro esta pareja. Su relación se empieza a construir desde la confianza que se van teniendo y eso se nota durante todo el libro. Y la dinámica que tienen entre ellos dos es simplemente increíble.

Este libro ha sido un poco como una montaña rusa, me he reído, he llorado, me he sorprendido con algunas cosas… pero siento que todo ha ocurrido porque tenía que ocurrir. En ningún momento se siente apresurado, o siente que hay algo fuera de lugar, simplemente todo encaja y te deja con una sensación de querer seguir leyendo sobre todos los personajes.

Algo que sencillamente admiro de Sophie es que no hay el típico “Third act Breakup” así que, si sois como yo y el hecho de que las parejas tengan que romper para reconciliarse al final del libro os vuelve locos, este es vuestro libro. Es simplemente perfecto.

English review:

First of all, a huge thank you to Sophie Snow and Love Notes PR for letting me read this arc.

This book has proven once again that more people should read Sophie. Her writing style hooks you from the very first word, and it's practically impossible not to become attached to all the characters, whether they're the main characters or the supporting cast.

Ever since I read Spicy or Sweet, I've wanted to know more about Nico, and finally, here's his story! If you've read the other books, you'll know that he's Shay's brother and lives a secluded life in the mountains with his dogs, avoiding contact with anyone unless absolutely necessary. But after a very heavy snowfall, he gets trapped in his mountain cabin with Este, his best friend's daughter.

In this book, we mainly see his story with Este, and I must admit that I adore this couple. Their relationship begins to build on the trust they develop, and that's evident throughout the entire book. And the dynamic between them is simply incredible.

This book has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride; I've laughed, I've cried, I've been surprised by some things… but I feel like everything happened for a reason. At no point does it feel rushed, or like anything is out of place; everything just fits together and leaves you wanting to read more about all the characters.
Something I simply admire about Sophie is that there's no typical "third act breakup," so if you're like me and the idea of ​​couples having to break up only to get back together at the end of the book drives you crazy, this is your book. It's simply perfect.
Profile Image for ♥ WishfulMiss ♥ .
1,478 reviews115 followers
May 7, 2026
I am in love with Sophie Snow's writing style. She delivered a cozy, age gap romance that was uplifting, spicy read with character growth and emotions that made the love story all the more believable. It was swoony, flirty and had me laughing and blushing, with butterflies in my stomach.

♡♡♡
I think I might have developed an unhealthy addiction to orgasms courtesy of my dad’s best friend. What a shame.
♡♡♡

Este and Nico had great chemistry and the will they/wont they tension was so good! Loved the slow burn/forbidden vibes but also that it wasn't all about the sexual heat brewing between them. Their relationship from strangers to friends to lovers was so well written. From their love of tea, reading, cooking and sitting in comfy silence, it all added a foundation to their love story. Their trauma bonding was heartbreaking but I also loved how it brought them closer together. Este's need to shut off and submit was the perfect balm for Nico, who just wants to take care of those he cares about.

♡♡♡
“I blow on your tea before I give it to you because you burned your tongue the other day. You stubbed your toe on the stairs, and I sanded down the corners of every step to make them rounder. I put rubber mats out on the porch because it gets slippery when it’s wet, and I don’t want you to fall. Do you really think I’d do anything that would put you in danger, angel?”
♡♡♡

*sigh* I love a green flag hero and Nico was such a softy when it came to Este. Right from the start, he showered her with care and affection. And the way Este ate it all up! I was right there with her. Both MCs think they've been broken by trauma and loss but their journey takes an unexpected and hopeful turn when they begin to open up to each other. I loved the gradual build up to their romance.

♡♡♡
I’ve never felt anything like this. It’s the drop in my stomach from the highest point of a roller coaster, seeing a sunset from the cockpit, when it feels like the world is resetting, climbing into my own bed after weeks away, finishing a new favorite book and knowing I have the sequel waiting for me… all of my favorite things, all at once. It’s… him. It’s Nico.
♡♡♡

If you like Cleo White (and if you know me, you know I LOVE her!) I can definitely recommend Sophie Snow. Age gap girlies who like spicy forbidden romance with low drama and slow burn will enjoy Fall or Fly.

Favorite Bits:
🖤 The caregiving Dom and soft Sub dynamic
🖤 The watch tower moment
🖤 Nico's pendent of Amelia Bearheart

SAFETY INFO:
Profile Image for Faiza BEGUM.
699 reviews17 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 18, 2026
I went into Fall or Fly expecting a cozy, emotional romance—but what I got was something that hit way deeper than I anticipated.

Nico is exactly the kind of MMC I can’t resist: withdrawn, rough around the edges, completely over the world… except when it comes to Este 🖤. He’s spent years isolating himself in the Wyoming mountains, carrying the weight of his past and the loss of his sister like a constant shadow. There’s this quiet intensity about him, and the way his walls slowly crack for Este? Absolutely everything.

Este, on the other hand, arrives already fractured in her own way. After surviving a devastating plane crash, she’s struggling to piece herself back together. When she ends up at Nico’s remote home—cut off from everything after a brutal snowstorm and avalanche—the forced proximity creates this deeply intimate space where neither of them can hide ❄️.

What really makes this story shine is how naturally their connection develops. It’s not rushed or overly dramatic—it’s two wounded people recognizing something familiar in each other. Their bond feels raw, sometimes messy, but always genuine. Watching them open up, confront their trauma, and slowly begin to heal side by side was incredibly moving 💔➡️❤️.

And Nico? The way he cares for Este without hesitation melted me. The small, thoughtful gestures—making sure she’s comfortable, taking care of her when she’s struggling, quietly supporting her as she rebuilds her confidence—those moments said more than any grand declaration ever could 🫶. He’s protective without being controlling, gentle without losing that gruff edge.

I also loved how Este brings light back into Nico’s life. She doesn’t just fall for him—she helps him reconnect with parts of himself he buried long ago, including his family and the world he shut out. They really do feel like two pieces that finally found where they belong.

The emotional depth here is what sets it apart. This isn’t just about romance—it’s about grief, fear, survival, and learning how to move forward when life has completely derailed you. Both characters felt authentic in their struggles, and their growth never felt forced.

The chemistry between them is undeniable 🔥—a mix of tension, tenderness, and vulnerability. While the spice was definitely there, I did find myself wishing it pushed a bit further, especially considering Este’s interests that were hinted at. Still, it didn’t take away from how strong their connection felt overall.

The snowed-in cabin setting adds this almost suffocating closeness that makes every glance, every touch, every conversation feel amplified. Pair that with the age gap and the “dad’s best friend” dynamic, and you get just the right amount of angst without it ever feeling overwhelming.

By the end, I was completely emotionally invested. Nico and Este’s journey isn’t easy, but it’s beautiful in the way it unfolds. They don’t fix each other—they support, understand, and grow together.

This story lingered with me long after I finished it… and honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever look at flying the same way again ✈️💭
Profile Image for Hannah Jay.
7 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 27, 2026
Is there something in the water at Wintermore? as the character of Sloane says in Fall or Fly, by Sophie Snow. A third in the series of this fictional town, Snow brings the kinky, age gap to another heartfelt, emotional yet spicy novel and we love it.
I first picked up Snow’s books after seeing her Christmas themed sexy novel, with trepidation on age gap tropes as they were never really my cup of tea. However, Snow makes it hard to pull away from her books, whether it’s the explicit scenes leaving you hot under the collar or the well written romance between the characters that make you fall for them yourselves.
Fall or Fly is no different. A snowed in trope with a difference, Este finds herself spending her time stuck in a log cabin amongst the magical snow with her dad’s best friend. 26 to his 47, the close quarters and their mutual trauma brings Este and Nico together as they navigate through recovery but also a blossoming love.
Este is not only competent but a mature 26 year old, trying to work through the pain of a plane crash, questioning her life and everything in between. But her need to give over her control matches Nico’s need to protect and support, through every day actions, their gently building love and in the bedroom.
Nico may be 47, but we are regularly reminded that this isn’t old at all. He gets Este, is working through his own trauma, and becomes the ying to her yang. He has a need, after years of solitude, to love someone and look after them and does it in the most respectful and beautiful ways. Snow manages to write the most perfect men, making it so hard for us single ladies to find anything close to it in real life.
The heat in the bedroom is something else. Whether the tropes are for you or not, you can’t help but feel butterflies and heat from the spicy scenes which leave nothing to be desired and nor do you want it to. They are so hot, intimate and again, only make you wish that Snow was writing your life.
Throwing in some moments of jeopardy, emotional moments where your heart may or may not break, it’s a book that you never want to end. The revelation of the romance in Snow’s way is slightly downplayed however and accepted quite easily which does feel a little anti-climatic and I guess I was expecting or wanting some drama with this. But it’s likely this would be too much at that point in the story and for a story that is quite heavy on emotional topics which they in themselves are woven throughout so well.
Fall or Fly will draw out every emotion, every elicit fantasy, as well as give you new ones, and you can’t help but root for Este and Nico before you have even read the first chapter. Another author who successfully adds another male character to your list of high expectations for real men.
Profile Image for Inês Ramos.
20 reviews
May 5, 2026
Fall or Fly by Sophie Snow was such an addictive read! I ended up finishing it in just a few days because I couldn’t put it down. The story is so captivating, and I loved watching both protagonists grow, not only in their relationship but also as individuals.

Nico and Este’s story begins in such a unique way, with them essentially being “stuck” together in his cabin during a snowstorm. That forced proximity adds so much tension, but also creates space for their relationship to develop naturally.

Este’s character really stood out to me, especially after everything she’s been through. Surviving such a rare and life-changing accident, and then having to face something as simple (but terrifying) as driving again, added both humour and depth to her story:

“Who the hell survives a plane crash just to die driving up a goddamn mountain?”

It’s such a chaotic but honest thought, and it made her feel incredibly real.

The first time Nico and Este meet is both awkward and strangely meaningful, like their dynamic is already there from the very beginning:

“I stare up into the face of my dad’s best friend for the first time. Huh. He’s… kind of hot.”

There’s something about that moment that sets the tone for their relationship—unexpected, slightly chaotic, but full of chemistry.

At the start, there’s a lot of awkwardness between them, but that slowly shifts into something deeper as they spend more time together. I really loved how their connection built over time, especially through the quieter, more personal moments.

Another detail I loved was how they shared small things, like both always having a Kindle in hand—especially Nico exploring a whole new genre because of Este. It added such a soft, personal touch to their relationship.

I also really appreciated the side characters, especially Este’s sister, who is so supportive and encouraging, wanting her to enjoy herself and fully embrace the time she spends with Nico.

Their dynamic felt so natural and beautifully written, and the emotions throughout the story were captured so well. By the end, seeing how happy and settled they were together felt incredibly satisfying:

“I love you, Nico. Exactly as you are now, and however you are in a year, five, ten.”
“Just think, we get a whole lifetime of new best things now. Together.”

That final moment felt so full of love, growth, and hope—it was the perfect way to end their story.

Overall, this is such a captivating and emotional romance, with the perfect mix of humour, vulnerability, and connection. If you enjoy romance with a bit of spice, strong character growth, and a relationship that feels both intense and genuine, this is definitely one to pick up.
Profile Image for Emma.
696 reviews24 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 12, 2026
“You don’t have to earn anyone’s love, least of all mine. It’s already yours. I’m already yours.”

✔️dad’s best friend
✔️snowed in
✔️age gap (she’s 26, he’s 47)
✔️forced proximity
✔️healing together
✔️no 3rd act breakup

I didn’t expect this book to pack such a big emotional punch while at the same time being one of the spiciest contemporary M/F romances I’ve read in a while. I love this author’s writing, and thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in this series, so I had a feeling I was going to like this one and I am happy to say it definitely exceeded my expectations. Nico (MMC) and Este (FMC) are both dealing with some pretty heavy emotional challenges. Nico moved to a secluded cabin in the mountains after his sister passed (two decades prior to the events of this book) and basically withdrew from society, and Este is struggling with the aftermath of a plane crash that occurred while she was piloting. A break at Nico’s cabin with her dads and sister is the perfect excuse to get away, however they both get more than they bargained for when an avalanche causes them to be snowed in together for over a month.

I like that while the relationship is forbidden in nature due to the fact that her dad is his best friend, the two main characters never met before the events of this book. He didn’t watch her grow up or keep tabs on her life in any way. He knew she existed, but outside of that he knows nothing about her. There is a power imbalance here for a couple of reasons (one major one being that she is literally trapped in his home for the foreseeable future), and it is stated and discussed on page. These are both mature individuals who are capable of making their own decisions and communicating what they are thinking and feeling. I just appreciate how, even though there is a twenty one year age gap here, they are on the same level intellectually and emotionally.

There is no third act breakup in this book, but man that third act is emotional, so fair warning. What happens makes perfect sense for the story, and the character development and conversations that follow are perfect, but there was definitely a moment there were I was crashing out and almost threw my kindle (in the best way). While you can definitely read this book as a standalone, I highly recommend reading all three books (especially Spicy or Sweet, Nico’s sister’s book) because they are all great.


*Thank you so much to the author (Sophie Snow) and Love Notes PR for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
Profile Image for Daniela Hernandez.
107 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy
April 22, 2026
Fall or Fly by Sophie Snow 4 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
Thanks to Love Notes PR and the author for the ARC!
 Age Gap Romance she’s 26, he’s 47.
 Dads best friend.
 Daddy kink.
 Snowed in.
 Forced Proximity.
 Mental Health Rep.

DID ANYONE SAY AGE GAP! COUNT ME IN! Not but seriously, I’m such a sucker for a nice age gap romance, and Sophie never disappoints me. Since I read Legally Binding, I knew she was going to be one of my favorites.

"Fall or Fly" was such a nice and wholesome read. We have two characters, dealing with their traumas, and the process of dealing with something that altered their lives. And by the first four or five chapters, we know for a fact that destiny probably brought them together, because that’s exactly what they needed.

Este
"I’m going to die out here, and my dads are going to find my Kindle ad all the kinky shit on it when they recover my body".
Este was such a fun character, I mean, come on, she has a teddy bear, and her name is Amelia Bearheart, bloody smart if you ask me haha. Este was a pilot and shes going through a long mental healing process after a traumatic accident while she was still working. She's a bit sick of everyone walking on egg shells around her so what a better wayt to relax to go with your family on a trip and visit your dad's best friend...right?

Nico
"We don’t have to count on stars or planes to make our wishes come true. We could just…make it happen."
Nico was just what I could expect from a MMC in an age gap romance. He’s been living away from everyone, secluded in the mountains since his sister’s dead, 20 years’ prior. The man has two dogs and their names are Earl and Grey, I mean, come on! I was sold that instant!

The relationship between these two even if it was a bit of trauma bonded, was so freaking cute from the very beginning. I don’t want to call it traumas, but I think that’s what it was, kind of helped. Both Nico and Este, were basically struggling with the same mental struggles, and in some way, they found a routine, hobbies, and things they had in common, (apart from Este being Nico’s best friend daughter hahaha), that actually helped them and made them realize that there were more ways to deal with those shadows from the past.

The spice, what can I say, I was just expecting that Nico finally said, yes, fuck it! but oh man, he was really taking his time. And I have to say that that night were they finally gave in, was so fucking romantic, I loved it!

I liked the fact that after everything that happened in that crazy third act, Nico and Este were certain about their relationship, but also, they accepted to work more to leave behind their fears. I definitely understood the worries from Estes family and even from Nico’s sister and people around him, about Este doing the exact same thing Nico did for 20 years, being away from everyone and everything. But it was nice to see that Nico knew he had to work on that too and he was not going to drag Este to that same dark path.

Generally, I really liked the story, it was nice to read a bit more about characters from the previous books and how they doing, also and the brief mention about some people during the last chapters got me really intrigued so I really hope we can go back to Wintermore, the city of Christmas and age gaps, because there are lots of interesting things I want to know about!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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