What do you think?
Rate this book
Storm Season #1
Don't Fall
That’s it. My neighbor has to die. There’s no other way around it. The man must be killed—and I’ll even find a way to do it gently, but this cannot go on.
Okay, maybe I’m a bit dramatic, but living next to my brother’s best friend who decided to befriend crows who spend all week spreading garbage across my lawn is not I signed up for.
I wanted quiet.
I wanted peace.
I wanted to stop fantasizing about the gorgeous man I couldn’t stand.
Unfortunately for me, North is a big presence with an annoyingly sunny smile and a way of making life sound like it’s worth living. And as a widower who wants to spend the rest of my life wallowing, the last person I want around is one who makes me question my new life’s purpose.
But these feelings can’t be real, can they? I had my great love, and I lost him. So that’s supposed to be it for me.
Isn’t that the way things go?
I can’t seem to stay away from North, even when I know I should. And when he starts to make me feel like maybe there’s another happily ever after out there, I find that as cautious as I’ve taken each step, I’m on the verge of falling once more.
Don’t Fall is the first book in the small town, enemies to lovers, heavy yearning, MM romance series, Storm Season. It features a virgin EMT whose smile is hiding a lot of things, a disgruntled, grieving writer who just wants solid sleep and a good meal, neighborhood crows wreaking havoc, cooking lessons, hurt/comfort, and a toe-curling happily ever after.
Okay, maybe I’m a bit dramatic, but living next to my brother’s best friend who decided to befriend crows who spend all week spreading garbage across my lawn is not I signed up for.
I wanted quiet.
I wanted peace.
I wanted to stop fantasizing about the gorgeous man I couldn’t stand.
Unfortunately for me, North is a big presence with an annoyingly sunny smile and a way of making life sound like it’s worth living. And as a widower who wants to spend the rest of my life wallowing, the last person I want around is one who makes me question my new life’s purpose.
But these feelings can’t be real, can they? I had my great love, and I lost him. So that’s supposed to be it for me.
Isn’t that the way things go?
I can’t seem to stay away from North, even when I know I should. And when he starts to make me feel like maybe there’s another happily ever after out there, I find that as cautious as I’ve taken each step, I’m on the verge of falling once more.
Don’t Fall is the first book in the small town, enemies to lovers, heavy yearning, MM romance series, Storm Season. It features a virgin EMT whose smile is hiding a lot of things, a disgruntled, grieving writer who just wants solid sleep and a good meal, neighborhood crows wreaking havoc, cooking lessons, hurt/comfort, and a toe-curling happily ever after.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2026
About the author
E.M. Lindsey
150 books1,567 followersE.M. Lindsey is the author of MM contemporary romance. She presently lives and works in the southeastern United States.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews
Did Not Finish
July 9, 2026The mc's sister barges into his house crying after his 72 hour shift as he was just about to finally sleep. Because the barista where she ordered coffee hit on her. And she couldn't understand her brother's annoyance.
Who are these people? I just can't. Rage bait? Not fun reading.
Yeah, no.
Who are these people? I just can't. Rage bait? Not fun reading.
Yeah, no.
Did Not Finish
July 11, 2026DNF at 4%… I really don’t want to read about kids who shit their pants combined with a whiny virgin mc (why is he a virgin? I can’t be bothered to read further to find out, but if you made it past the screaming mc because someone ordered a pizza 🤷🏽♀️, please enlighten me).
I’ve read a lot of crappy books all the way to the end but books that explain in detail about the smell of kids literally shitting their pants… That’s apparently my line where I just close my Kindle (in my defence: I read this while having a quiet breakfast by myself). And by then I already know the MC was a virgin because he shares that on the first page. Why would we want to know that before we as readers have a chance to get to know the guy a bit better? Then the rookie and pizza rant started and I just couldn’t anymore.
Hope this book makes it to other readers who appreciate this special start, because the author is a decent writer most of the time. This was a huge miss though.
I’ve read a lot of crappy books all the way to the end but books that explain in detail about the smell of kids literally shitting their pants… That’s apparently my line where I just close my Kindle (in my defence: I read this while having a quiet breakfast by myself). And by then I already know the MC was a virgin because he shares that on the first page. Why would we want to know that before we as readers have a chance to get to know the guy a bit better? Then the rookie and pizza rant started and I just couldn’t anymore.
Hope this book makes it to other readers who appreciate this special start, because the author is a decent writer most of the time. This was a huge miss though.
July 6, 2026
MM romance | Virgin MC | EMT/firefighter | Widower | Neighbors | Enemies to lovers | Small town | Yearning | Brother's best friend | Disability rep | Coming in his pants | Nipple piercings
Tengo que admitir que me costó muchísimo concentrarme para leer este libro, principalmente porque no me llamaba lo suficiente la atención. No sentí que conectara con ninguno de ellos y, cuando por fin logré hacerlo, fue después del 50-60% del libro.
North es mi protegido; qué personaje tan bonito y tan real. Me encantó en todo momento, fue demasiado dulce. Con Leo, sin dudas, me costó un poquito más encariñarme; no porque fuera un mal personaje, sino porque lo sentí muy pesado y no pude conectar con él al principio.
No creo que sea un libro que quiera releer en algún momento de mi vida, pero tampoco fue un mal libro.
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
I have to admit I struggled a lot to focus on this book, mostly because it just didn't catch my attention enough. I didn't feel a connection with either of them, and when I finally did, it was already past the 50-60% mark.
North is my protected baby—what a beautiful and realistic character. I loved him the whole time; he was just so sweet. Leo, on the other hand, definitely took me a bit longer to warm up to—not because he was a bad character, but because he felt too heavy, and I couldn't connect with him at first.
I don't think this is a book I'd ever want to reread, but it wasn't a bad book either.
Tengo que admitir que me costó muchísimo concentrarme para leer este libro, principalmente porque no me llamaba lo suficiente la atención. No sentí que conectara con ninguno de ellos y, cuando por fin logré hacerlo, fue después del 50-60% del libro.
North es mi protegido; qué personaje tan bonito y tan real. Me encantó en todo momento, fue demasiado dulce. Con Leo, sin dudas, me costó un poquito más encariñarme; no porque fuera un mal personaje, sino porque lo sentí muy pesado y no pude conectar con él al principio.
No creo que sea un libro que quiera releer en algún momento de mi vida, pero tampoco fue un mal libro.
〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️
I have to admit I struggled a lot to focus on this book, mostly because it just didn't catch my attention enough. I didn't feel a connection with either of them, and when I finally did, it was already past the 50-60% mark.
North is my protected baby—what a beautiful and realistic character. I loved him the whole time; he was just so sweet. Leo, on the other hand, definitely took me a bit longer to warm up to—not because he was a bad character, but because he felt too heavy, and I couldn't connect with him at first.
I don't think this is a book I'd ever want to reread, but it wasn't a bad book either.
July 11, 2026
E.M. Lindsey has such a talent for creating characters who feel real, and both North and Leo completely pulled me into their story. They each have their own struggles...North is carrying the weight of caring for his family while trying to keep everything afloat, and Leo is navigating life after the loss of his husband while living with a traumatic brain injury and seizure disorder. My heart broke for both of them more than once.
What I loved most was the relationship development. The banter between these two was fantastic, starting with plenty of friction (and some surprisingly adorable crow-related chaos) before slowly evolving into attraction, trust, and something much deeper. Their chemistry felt natural, and I loved all the little acts of service and quiet moments that showed how much they cared for each other.
The disability representation was, as always with E.M. Lindsey, handled with authenticity and care. It felt like an important part of the characters' lives without ever defining them entirely.
I also adored the found family aspects and the balance between emotional moments, humour, and romance. There were scenes that made me smile, scenes that hurt my heart, and plenty of moments that had me rooting for these two to find their happiness.
✨ Grumpy x sunshine
✨ Found family
✨ Disability representation
✨ Neighbours to lovers
✨ Second chance at love
✨ Hurt/comfort
✨ Green flag MMCs
A sweet, emotional romance with wonderful representation, great banter, and characters that are impossible not to love. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
What I loved most was the relationship development. The banter between these two was fantastic, starting with plenty of friction (and some surprisingly adorable crow-related chaos) before slowly evolving into attraction, trust, and something much deeper. Their chemistry felt natural, and I loved all the little acts of service and quiet moments that showed how much they cared for each other.
The disability representation was, as always with E.M. Lindsey, handled with authenticity and care. It felt like an important part of the characters' lives without ever defining them entirely.
I also adored the found family aspects and the balance between emotional moments, humour, and romance. There were scenes that made me smile, scenes that hurt my heart, and plenty of moments that had me rooting for these two to find their happiness.
✨ Grumpy x sunshine
✨ Found family
✨ Disability representation
✨ Neighbours to lovers
✨ Second chance at love
✨ Hurt/comfort
✨ Green flag MMCs
A sweet, emotional romance with wonderful representation, great banter, and characters that are impossible not to love. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
July 1, 2026
This was a fun, low-angst read that, for me, had the potential to be even more. One thing I can always count on with E.M. Lindsey is incredible disability representation, and this book was no exception. The author handles it with so much care, authenticity, and compassion.
This is a dislike-to-lovers romance between North and Leo. Leo is North's best friend Easton's younger brother and is living with a traumatic brain injury while also navigating the grief of losing his husband in an accident. North is a 29-year-old virgin firefighter who spends his life taking care of everyone around him while rarely allowing himself to pursue what he truly wants.
The relationship starts off with plenty of friction, as both characters seem to unintentionally trigger one another. Their interactions are fueled by misunderstandings and miscommunication, which definitely creates tension, although at times it was a little frustrating because it was difficult to understand why they were so at odds with each other.
Where the story didn't quite work for me was the progression of the romance. After so much conflict, their relationship seemed to shift very quickly. They went from a few angry hookups to exchanging "I love you" within a couple of weeks, and I never quite felt like I saw the emotional connection develop enough to make that leap believable. I would have loved more moments of vulnerability, more push and pull, and more time spent building their relationship before they reached that point.
That said, there was still a lot to appreciate. North was such a genuinely kind and selfless character. His instinct to care for Leo and the people he loved was one of my favorite parts of the book. Even when his own family took advantage of his generosity, he continued to put others first, and it made him incredibly easy to root for. I also really enjoyed the supporting cast and am looking forward to reading the rest of the series to see their stories unfold.
If you're looking for a lighter romance featuring a firefighter, best friends brother, thoughtful disability representation, a virgin MC, dislike-to-lovers dynamics, lots of caretaking, and lower spice, this one is definitely worth checking out. While the romance itself wasn't quite the right fit for me, I know many readers will connect with these characters and the heart behind their story.
This is a dislike-to-lovers romance between North and Leo. Leo is North's best friend Easton's younger brother and is living with a traumatic brain injury while also navigating the grief of losing his husband in an accident. North is a 29-year-old virgin firefighter who spends his life taking care of everyone around him while rarely allowing himself to pursue what he truly wants.
The relationship starts off with plenty of friction, as both characters seem to unintentionally trigger one another. Their interactions are fueled by misunderstandings and miscommunication, which definitely creates tension, although at times it was a little frustrating because it was difficult to understand why they were so at odds with each other.
Where the story didn't quite work for me was the progression of the romance. After so much conflict, their relationship seemed to shift very quickly. They went from a few angry hookups to exchanging "I love you" within a couple of weeks, and I never quite felt like I saw the emotional connection develop enough to make that leap believable. I would have loved more moments of vulnerability, more push and pull, and more time spent building their relationship before they reached that point.
That said, there was still a lot to appreciate. North was such a genuinely kind and selfless character. His instinct to care for Leo and the people he loved was one of my favorite parts of the book. Even when his own family took advantage of his generosity, he continued to put others first, and it made him incredibly easy to root for. I also really enjoyed the supporting cast and am looking forward to reading the rest of the series to see their stories unfold.
If you're looking for a lighter romance featuring a firefighter, best friends brother, thoughtful disability representation, a virgin MC, dislike-to-lovers dynamics, lots of caretaking, and lower spice, this one is definitely worth checking out. While the romance itself wasn't quite the right fit for me, I know many readers will connect with these characters and the heart behind their story.
June 22, 2026
***ARC Review***
“Don’t try to tear yourself into pieces for someone who will never be satisfied with the shape you’re in.”
North became a firefighter to help take care of his mother and siblings. It isn’t his dream job. At the station he becomes best friends with Easton. Easton’s younger brother, Leo, had an incident in the past and has a TBI because of it. North and Leo can’t stand each other. Until all of a sudden, they can.
I wanted so badly to like this book! There was just so much that felt forced and wasn’t believable. North and Leo can’t stand each other but it all ends up being for stupid reasons that would have been solved with a simple conversation. The miscommunication in this book was so annoying. And then when they do finally get together it’s like a complete 180 flip. They go from hating each other to North professing his love with hardly anything in between. The “love” didn’t feel real. It was so forced and nothing on page showed what led up to either of them having such real feelings. The relationship had potential, but the growth wasn’t written into the story to make the relationship believable.
I really loved the idea of this book. Two guys helping each other through tough times and past trauma. And enemies-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes but it was not executed right in this book. Because the feelings felt so rushed, and not in a cute “love at first sight/insta love” type way, it also made the spice feel inauthentic.
Also what was with the crows???
The author set up many of the side characters in a way that you could tell they will end up with their own book in the series. I would like to check out the next one when it happens, but my hopes are not super high.
“Don’t try to tear yourself into pieces for someone who will never be satisfied with the shape you’re in.”
North became a firefighter to help take care of his mother and siblings. It isn’t his dream job. At the station he becomes best friends with Easton. Easton’s younger brother, Leo, had an incident in the past and has a TBI because of it. North and Leo can’t stand each other. Until all of a sudden, they can.
I wanted so badly to like this book! There was just so much that felt forced and wasn’t believable. North and Leo can’t stand each other but it all ends up being for stupid reasons that would have been solved with a simple conversation. The miscommunication in this book was so annoying. And then when they do finally get together it’s like a complete 180 flip. They go from hating each other to North professing his love with hardly anything in between. The “love” didn’t feel real. It was so forced and nothing on page showed what led up to either of them having such real feelings. The relationship had potential, but the growth wasn’t written into the story to make the relationship believable.
I really loved the idea of this book. Two guys helping each other through tough times and past trauma. And enemies-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes but it was not executed right in this book. Because the feelings felt so rushed, and not in a cute “love at first sight/insta love” type way, it also made the spice feel inauthentic.
Also what was with the crows???
The author set up many of the side characters in a way that you could tell they will end up with their own book in the series. I would like to check out the next one when it happens, but my hopes are not super high.
July 1, 2026
I really enjoyed Don't Fall! It had such a great balance between being emotional, good humor, and amazing chemistry. I really couldn’t put it down. I loved both MMCs back stories and ate them up. I appreciated that they both had their own struggles and personalities, which made them feel like real people instead of perfect romance leads.
What stood out most to me was how natural the relationship developed. I love a good enemies to lovers done right. This was definitely done right!! The characters had genuine chemistry. I really enjoyed their banter!
The pacing was perfect with enough tension and lighter moments to balance the heavy moments. There were several scenes that had me smiling, and others that pulled at my heart strings.
If you enjoy an amazing romance with memorable characters, that’s emotional and also sweet, read this!! I'll always autoread EM Lindsey!!! One last thing I will say is that I love the diversity and authentic disability representation in these books. It’s done so well!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
What stood out most to me was how natural the relationship developed. I love a good enemies to lovers done right. This was definitely done right!! The characters had genuine chemistry. I really enjoyed their banter!
The pacing was perfect with enough tension and lighter moments to balance the heavy moments. There were several scenes that had me smiling, and others that pulled at my heart strings.
If you enjoy an amazing romance with memorable characters, that’s emotional and also sweet, read this!! I'll always autoread EM Lindsey!!! One last thing I will say is that I love the diversity and authentic disability representation in these books. It’s done so well!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
June 30, 2026
I absolutely adored this book!! 😭❤️ It had so many of my favorite tropes that I honestly never stood a chance 😂
North is a 29-year-old firefighter whose entire life has been about taking care of everyone else. He looks after his mother, who struggles with severe mental health issues after years of substance abuse, and he basically raised his sisters because she couldn’t. He’s always the one everyone depends on, the one who carries everyone else’s burdens, but nobody ever seems to carry his. Nobody really takes care of him. My heart broke for this man over and over again.
And then there’s Russell (yes Russell Crow 😂), the adorable abandoned baby crow with one little leg that North rescues.
It also says so much about North’s character. He has a bit of a savior complex and simply can’t walk away when someone or something needs help.
What hurt me most was realizing how much of North’s youth was stolen from him. He never got to just be. He’s never even had something as simple as a first kiss because his whole life has revolved around surviving and putting everyone else first. He deserves the entire world ❤️❤️❤️
Then we meet Leo. After a tragic accident, he’s living with a traumatic brain injury and seizures, and he’s had to rebuild his life from the ground up. To make things even messier, he’s North’s best friend’s brother, and both of them are convinced the other can’t stand them.
Watching them slowly realize that there was never really any hatred between them only miscommunication, insecurity, and feelings they’d buried was beautiful ❤️!
The disability representation was absolutely wonderful. Leo’s TBI and seizures aren’t treated as something he simply “gets over.” Instead, we see him adapt, grieve, grow, and build a life that works for him. And I loved that he becomes someone North can finally lean on.
I also really appreciated that the best friend’s brother trope never turned into unnecessary drama. Easton was understandably hurt that he’d been kept in the dark, but at the end of the day, all he wanted was for the two people he loved most to be happy.
This book is full of green flags, so much hurt/comfort, beautiful disability representation, found family vibes, healing, and two characters who deserved every ounce of happiness they found together.
North is a 29-year-old firefighter whose entire life has been about taking care of everyone else. He looks after his mother, who struggles with severe mental health issues after years of substance abuse, and he basically raised his sisters because she couldn’t. He’s always the one everyone depends on, the one who carries everyone else’s burdens, but nobody ever seems to carry his. Nobody really takes care of him. My heart broke for this man over and over again.
And then there’s Russell (yes Russell Crow 😂), the adorable abandoned baby crow with one little leg that North rescues.
It also says so much about North’s character. He has a bit of a savior complex and simply can’t walk away when someone or something needs help.
What hurt me most was realizing how much of North’s youth was stolen from him. He never got to just be. He’s never even had something as simple as a first kiss because his whole life has revolved around surviving and putting everyone else first. He deserves the entire world ❤️❤️❤️
Then we meet Leo. After a tragic accident, he’s living with a traumatic brain injury and seizures, and he’s had to rebuild his life from the ground up. To make things even messier, he’s North’s best friend’s brother, and both of them are convinced the other can’t stand them.
Watching them slowly realize that there was never really any hatred between them only miscommunication, insecurity, and feelings they’d buried was beautiful ❤️!
The disability representation was absolutely wonderful. Leo’s TBI and seizures aren’t treated as something he simply “gets over.” Instead, we see him adapt, grieve, grow, and build a life that works for him. And I loved that he becomes someone North can finally lean on.
I also really appreciated that the best friend’s brother trope never turned into unnecessary drama. Easton was understandably hurt that he’d been kept in the dark, but at the end of the day, all he wanted was for the two people he loved most to be happy.
This book is full of green flags, so much hurt/comfort, beautiful disability representation, found family vibes, healing, and two characters who deserved every ounce of happiness they found together.
July 11, 2026
This is a brother’s best friend / neighbours to more romance, featuring Leo and North, and is book one in the Storm Season series.
Leo just wants peace and quiet, but his cheerful neighbour, who is also his brother’s best friend, keeps disrupting both his life and his resolve to stay alone. As Leo and North develop feelings for each other, Leo must decide whether he’s willing to risk opening his heart to love again.
This was such a beautiful, heartfelt story. Both Leo and North have great banter, there are these quiet moments and the right amount of humour and emotion. North is such a great caretaker and I love that he has been crushing on Leo for the longest time.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM romance
Neighbours to more
Brother’s best friend
Grumpy x Sunshine
Hurt / Comfort
Accident
Past abuse
Grief & healing
EMT x writer
Virgin MC
Pet dad: Crow (Russell) & fish
Disability rep
Spicy times
First times
Public s*x & facial
Forced proximity
Caretaker & roommates
Cooks for him
Getting caught
Admit feelings
Found family
HEA
Leo just wants peace and quiet, but his cheerful neighbour, who is also his brother’s best friend, keeps disrupting both his life and his resolve to stay alone. As Leo and North develop feelings for each other, Leo must decide whether he’s willing to risk opening his heart to love again.
This was such a beautiful, heartfelt story. Both Leo and North have great banter, there are these quiet moments and the right amount of humour and emotion. North is such a great caretaker and I love that he has been crushing on Leo for the longest time.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM romance
Neighbours to more
Brother’s best friend
Grumpy x Sunshine
Hurt / Comfort
Accident
Past abuse
Grief & healing
EMT x writer
Virgin MC
Pet dad: Crow (Russell) & fish
Disability rep
Spicy times
First times
Public s*x & facial
Forced proximity
Caretaker & roommates
Cooks for him
Getting caught
Admit feelings
Found family
HEA
July 5, 2026
I really enjoyed this. EM Lindsey has a talent for telling a great story and while this was not what I would call her typical story it was still a great one sitting read! There is obviously brilliant disability rep, bit of friction between North and Leo, surprisingly adorable crows, found Family. Both these characters have immense struggles and for a while there it seems impossible they will find their way to HEA but Lindsey makes sure they do.
There is also very sweet swoony romance evidenced by hidden acts if service, can’t keep their hands off each other chemistry and going to bat for each other
It’s sweet funny engaging and I am really looking forward to seeing the characters again in the next book
There is also very sweet swoony romance evidenced by hidden acts if service, can’t keep their hands off each other chemistry and going to bat for each other
It’s sweet funny engaging and I am really looking forward to seeing the characters again in the next book
July 5, 2026
This was.... disappointing. The tropes I love were all there, and I usually love E.M. Lindsey's writing, but this was just... not it. 😭
I think what killed it was the borderline trauma porn and how everyone flew off the handle immediately over literally the dumbest offhanded comments.
I think what killed it was the borderline trauma porn and how everyone flew off the handle immediately over literally the dumbest offhanded comments.
July 11, 2026
I don't know what I expected this book to be but it wasn't this. This was somehow even better than I anticipated.
This book sets this series nicely, and I love that we started with Leo and North. I can't wait to see them live the life they deserve in the next books.
This series has my fav type of first responders, firefighters. I mean, everyone loves firefighters. I can't imagine doing that job, so I always appreciate exploring it through books and/or TV shows or movies. This series is centered around this lil found family of firefighters, and I loved seeing how they are in this book to build the anticipation for their stories.
What I loved the most about this book, and what I will love about this series is how much representation there is in it. We have disability rep, mental health rep, chronic illnesses, addiction. It is sad, but.. I am glad we get to meet characters that go through life in a different way that we do, maybe this way we can appreciate what we have a bit more. Not to mention that it just shows how everyone has someone out there who's just perfect and ready to love them, flaws, scars and all.
Which brings us back to Leo and North who are the cutest ever. Leo is grumpy and North is like this little ray of sunshine who's loved by everyone, except Leo ofc. I love them so much, ugh, you have no idea. The thing is that their love story is not that easy to navigate. We have different issues we have to deal with in this one, disability rep, mental health issues, addiction, grief, loss, it is a roller-coaster, but at the end all you can do is smile and feel happiness because these two poor souls finally got their HEA.
I went into this book blindly and I think this is why I wasn't expecting it. As I said, it was even better than I anticipated, and looking back I am glad I ignored the synopsis, the trope list, the TW list, everything. I just got to sit back, and enjoy what was thrown at me cuz let me tell you... I never knew what was coming.
I am so excited for the next book. 💚
This book sets this series nicely, and I love that we started with Leo and North. I can't wait to see them live the life they deserve in the next books.
This series has my fav type of first responders, firefighters. I mean, everyone loves firefighters. I can't imagine doing that job, so I always appreciate exploring it through books and/or TV shows or movies. This series is centered around this lil found family of firefighters, and I loved seeing how they are in this book to build the anticipation for their stories.
What I loved the most about this book, and what I will love about this series is how much representation there is in it. We have disability rep, mental health rep, chronic illnesses, addiction. It is sad, but.. I am glad we get to meet characters that go through life in a different way that we do, maybe this way we can appreciate what we have a bit more. Not to mention that it just shows how everyone has someone out there who's just perfect and ready to love them, flaws, scars and all.
Which brings us back to Leo and North who are the cutest ever. Leo is grumpy and North is like this little ray of sunshine who's loved by everyone, except Leo ofc. I love them so much, ugh, you have no idea. The thing is that their love story is not that easy to navigate. We have different issues we have to deal with in this one, disability rep, mental health issues, addiction, grief, loss, it is a roller-coaster, but at the end all you can do is smile and feel happiness because these two poor souls finally got their HEA.
I went into this book blindly and I think this is why I wasn't expecting it. As I said, it was even better than I anticipated, and looking back I am glad I ignored the synopsis, the trope list, the TW list, everything. I just got to sit back, and enjoy what was thrown at me cuz let me tell you... I never knew what was coming.
I am so excited for the next book. 💚
July 2, 2026
Firefigher North and his best friends brother Leo, are neighbours.
Leo has some struggles stemming from an incident a few years ago. He does his best to manage his tbi, seizures and mobility issues.
North is also not without some challenges.
His family obligations are heavy with responsibility.
I really enjoyed watching these two get to know each other properly. The small town, close community vibes felt authentic. There was plenty of fun as well as some heavier moments.
I loved this story and these guys. Their family and friends help and support. Their hea was hard won and well deserved.
I look forward to more of this series.
Leo has some struggles stemming from an incident a few years ago. He does his best to manage his tbi, seizures and mobility issues.
North is also not without some challenges.
His family obligations are heavy with responsibility.
I really enjoyed watching these two get to know each other properly. The small town, close community vibes felt authentic. There was plenty of fun as well as some heavier moments.
I loved this story and these guys. Their family and friends help and support. Their hea was hard won and well deserved.
I look forward to more of this series.
July 22, 2026
This was cute but I cannot wait for book two 🥵🙌🏻
July 25, 2026
4.25 Stars. I enjoyed this one!
July 22, 2026
I really loved this one and can't wait for the next book in the series.
July 2, 2026
‼️SPOILERS‼️
I just knew from the moment we meet the crow with the one leg that North rescued that I was going to love this book.
Leo is such a grump and I absolutely love him. Ever since he lost his husband in a horrible accident and he suffered his own injury, he has every right. We meet him when the crows have gotten into his trash. Leo is also Easton’s brother, who happens to be friends with North.
North is definitely my favorite because every time he sees Leo, he gets all tongue tied around him. Says the wrong things that he doesn’t mean and makes a better mess. The fact that this man cooked meals for Leo was everything. Also, a man that cooks - give me one!
As usual, E.M. does such an amazing job with the disability representation because sometimes a lot of authors just can’t do it justice. Also, the fact that it wasn’t just one character with their struggles but two, I was so here for that.
I felt for Easton because the way he found out about them and that they didn’t tell them was hurtful, but also, he needed to stop treating his brother with kid gloves. I really loved how North didn’t.
The spice in this book was so good. The last spice scene was my favorite because it was so touching and just so perfect.
If you’re looking for a book that has all the feels, mental health, a little humor, this book is definitely for you. I absolutely devoured this book and had such a good time with it.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I just knew from the moment we meet the crow with the one leg that North rescued that I was going to love this book.
Leo is such a grump and I absolutely love him. Ever since he lost his husband in a horrible accident and he suffered his own injury, he has every right. We meet him when the crows have gotten into his trash. Leo is also Easton’s brother, who happens to be friends with North.
North is definitely my favorite because every time he sees Leo, he gets all tongue tied around him. Says the wrong things that he doesn’t mean and makes a better mess. The fact that this man cooked meals for Leo was everything. Also, a man that cooks - give me one!
As usual, E.M. does such an amazing job with the disability representation because sometimes a lot of authors just can’t do it justice. Also, the fact that it wasn’t just one character with their struggles but two, I was so here for that.
I felt for Easton because the way he found out about them and that they didn’t tell them was hurtful, but also, he needed to stop treating his brother with kid gloves. I really loved how North didn’t.
The spice in this book was so good. The last spice scene was my favorite because it was so touching and just so perfect.
If you’re looking for a book that has all the feels, mental health, a little humor, this book is definitely for you. I absolutely devoured this book and had such a good time with it.
I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
July 4, 2026
Don’t Fall by E.M. Lindsey is book 1 in the new Storm Season series. I adore this author so I was so excited to see a new series from them. North and Leo know each other through Easton, North’s best friend and Leo’s brother. Their relationship has always been antagonistic. Both of them say and do things that come across as cruel.
North has been through it. His backstory made my heart hurt and I just wanted to wrap him up. Leo also had a rough history and these two just needed to let their guards down and let each other in. I did enjoy watching that happen.
The side characters (as always) are fascinating and I am looking forward to all of their stories. I love the found family aspect that always dominates this author’s work. It is so comforting to read about friends who truly care for each other and would do anything for each other.
I am glad that the tension with Easton did not last long. I am intrigued by him and look forward to reading Easton and Rune’s story. I will read anything E.M. writes. It is always enjoyable and hard to put down. I cannot wait to see what they bring us next!
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review.
North has been through it. His backstory made my heart hurt and I just wanted to wrap him up. Leo also had a rough history and these two just needed to let their guards down and let each other in. I did enjoy watching that happen.
The side characters (as always) are fascinating and I am looking forward to all of their stories. I love the found family aspect that always dominates this author’s work. It is so comforting to read about friends who truly care for each other and would do anything for each other.
I am glad that the tension with Easton did not last long. I am intrigued by him and look forward to reading Easton and Rune’s story. I will read anything E.M. writes. It is always enjoyable and hard to put down. I cannot wait to see what they bring us next!
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review.
July 7, 2026
I absolutely loved this book right from the first page! North is a selfless virgin firefighter who NEVER puts himself first, yet can’t seem to stop putting everyone’s needs ahead of his own, even when it’s detrimental to him. Leo is a widower navigating life with a traumatic brain injury, who thinks relationships, love and s3x are over for him.
It’s so touchingly beautiful how EM balances heavier themes with cozy, small-town charm and even some humour. Despite North and Leo’s initial friction, it quickly melts into a lovely hurt/comfort romance with caretaking and found family, complete with a one-legged rescue crow named Russell! If you love excellent, thoughtful disability representation (which I think EM is amazing at) and a sweet slow-burn with lots of yearning then this is for you!
**Check content warnings.**
It’s so touchingly beautiful how EM balances heavier themes with cozy, small-town charm and even some humour. Despite North and Leo’s initial friction, it quickly melts into a lovely hurt/comfort romance with caretaking and found family, complete with a one-legged rescue crow named Russell! If you love excellent, thoughtful disability representation (which I think EM is amazing at) and a sweet slow-burn with lots of yearning then this is for you!
**Check content warnings.**
July 3, 2026
I do this thing where I try to give a second chance to an author whose writing I've already read and didn't like. I read the synopsis, see the reviews, and get excited, then I read it and remember why I don't like that author.
This book is a mess, depressing and dramatic. The two main characters are two idiots with sad pasts, the secondary characters are either irritating or also traumatized because this is a big competition of who has the most tragic story. In short, I regret every second reading it and the author will return to eternal ban. Until next time.
This book is a mess, depressing and dramatic. The two main characters are two idiots with sad pasts, the secondary characters are either irritating or also traumatized because this is a big competition of who has the most tragic story. In short, I regret every second reading it and the author will return to eternal ban. Until next time.
July 5, 2026
This was super classic E.M Lindsey - all the characters were easy to root for and all happy endings were deserved!! However, there was a lot going on (almost too much at times?), and I was sort of distracted by the teases and hints on who the rest of the series would be following.
July 5, 2026
maybe too much going on and too much drama for me but i still read it straight through pretty much so
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
4.5 stars
North Wright is a firefighter/first responder. He’s a people pleaser and so used to being responsible and taking care of everyone but himself that he’s feeling kind of burned out. He gave up the idea of a career he loved to take the job that would help him support his mother and sisters, but now he’s kind of lost, lonely, and unfulfilled. His romantic lifehas been and is still void, and he is actually a virgin.
His back neighbor is Leo Harris, who’s the younger brother of his best friend, Easton. Leo has been through loss and trauma that still left him with lasting physical and cognitive challenges. He can’t do the things he used to do, and he feels like he’ll never find love again or crawl his way back into some semblance of a life that makes him happy. He is intense and a perfectionist, but doesn't always take care of himself. He struggles, and his brother tries to help, but Leo also wants to be independent.
And he is annoyed by North because the friendly crows that hang out at North's house like to come and tear up his yard and trash. Both of these guys have a bit of a physical attraction to each other and maybe a little crush. But on the surface, they dislike each other and keep annoying each other. But when North realizes that he kinda likes helping take care of Leo in his own way, they spend more time together. Things might just change.
Both of these guys had past trauma and self-worth issues. They both didn’t know if they would be able to find somebody who would look at them and truly want them with all of their emotional and physical scars. These two start out sniping fighting and saying the wrong thing, but a lot of it was self protection and actually being afraid of how interested they were in the other person. I enjoyed seeing their vulnerability come out in both of them and see how they both tried to support each other in their own ways.
This is a grumpy-sumshine, enemies-to-lovers, best friend’s brother, virgin and widow, forced proximity, secret relationship, firefighter, small town romance. These two do not understand why they react so strongly to each other. There is misunderstanding and miscommunication that complicate things and then there’s just drama going on in both of their current lives. And they both have a lot of past trauma and baggage. So there’s a lot of meat to this story and these are not cookie cutter characters. They both deal with challenges, guilt, regret, fear, and self-worth issues. Even the side characters have been given enough backstory to make them intriguing, interesting, and complicated. I’m really interested in the couple for the second book because they’re definitely acting as enemies, but you can tell there’s something underlying it as well.
I think this is a good start to a new Storm Season series and I really enjoy reading about characters that have challenges and limitations and seeing them get to find love even when they don’t think they will or that they deserve it. This author does such a fantastic job with disability rep. It just makes it all the more special when they can see each other's perceived flaws and embrace them as part of the person and love them all the more for them.
Follow Me: Blog: Reviews by Tammy, Kim, Rachel | Facebook | X | Pinte
rest | Instagram
North Wright is a firefighter/first responder. He’s a people pleaser and so used to being responsible and taking care of everyone but himself that he’s feeling kind of burned out. He gave up the idea of a career he loved to take the job that would help him support his mother and sisters, but now he’s kind of lost, lonely, and unfulfilled. His romantic lifehas been and is still void, and he is actually a virgin.
His back neighbor is Leo Harris, who’s the younger brother of his best friend, Easton. Leo has been through loss and trauma that still left him with lasting physical and cognitive challenges. He can’t do the things he used to do, and he feels like he’ll never find love again or crawl his way back into some semblance of a life that makes him happy. He is intense and a perfectionist, but doesn't always take care of himself. He struggles, and his brother tries to help, but Leo also wants to be independent.
And he is annoyed by North because the friendly crows that hang out at North's house like to come and tear up his yard and trash. Both of these guys have a bit of a physical attraction to each other and maybe a little crush. But on the surface, they dislike each other and keep annoying each other. But when North realizes that he kinda likes helping take care of Leo in his own way, they spend more time together. Things might just change.
Both of these guys had past trauma and self-worth issues. They both didn’t know if they would be able to find somebody who would look at them and truly want them with all of their emotional and physical scars. These two start out sniping fighting and saying the wrong thing, but a lot of it was self protection and actually being afraid of how interested they were in the other person. I enjoyed seeing their vulnerability come out in both of them and see how they both tried to support each other in their own ways.
This is a grumpy-sumshine, enemies-to-lovers, best friend’s brother, virgin and widow, forced proximity, secret relationship, firefighter, small town romance. These two do not understand why they react so strongly to each other. There is misunderstanding and miscommunication that complicate things and then there’s just drama going on in both of their current lives. And they both have a lot of past trauma and baggage. So there’s a lot of meat to this story and these are not cookie cutter characters. They both deal with challenges, guilt, regret, fear, and self-worth issues. Even the side characters have been given enough backstory to make them intriguing, interesting, and complicated. I’m really interested in the couple for the second book because they’re definitely acting as enemies, but you can tell there’s something underlying it as well.
I think this is a good start to a new Storm Season series and I really enjoy reading about characters that have challenges and limitations and seeing them get to find love even when they don’t think they will or that they deserve it. This author does such a fantastic job with disability rep. It just makes it all the more special when they can see each other's perceived flaws and embrace them as part of the person and love them all the more for them.
rest | Instagram
Review of advance copy
4.5 Stars - North and Leo
An incredibly strong start to a new fire fighter series. I am HOOKED. HOOKED I tell you.
North is our resident fire fighter. He is a bird dad. He is 29 (?) and a virgin. He is an absolute green flag, care bear looking after his family because the male figures in his life are the literal worst. He knows his way around the kitchen and he's insanely attracted to his best friend (Easton's) younger brother - Leo, who he accidentally saw naked one time and who now 'hates' him as a result.
Leo is trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. He experienced a life changing injury in an accident that also cost him his husband, has seizures and other challenges now as a result of his TBI, and he's been a bit adrift ever since. He is entirely unimpressed with his older brother's best friend, who is a neighbour of sorts, and who keeps attracting crows into the neighbourhood and Leo's trash cans by default. He's also insanely attracted to North, but figures the hot, slightly older fire fighter with a snarky mouth wouldn't ever want him.
When these two interact, at first, it's like oil and water. Every time either of them opens their mouths they're sticking their feet in it. Or misinterpret what the other is saying. They can't seem to help it, their mutual attraction towards one another turning them into buffoons whenever they're in spitting distance.
Of course, things happen. They start to actually adult and the next thing they know there's supply closets involved and suddenly they're looking at each other in a different light... ugh, it was glorious. A slow burn, back and forth, 'hate' to love that I could get behind. Both characters were adorable in their own way and once they each pulled their own heads out, they quickly realised just how perfect for one another they were.
There's a lot happening in this book. We're setting up our main two characters and their back stories, but there are also a lot of side characters happening and making their presence known. I am SO EXCITED for book two!! Easton (the bestie/brother) clearly had things going on in this book that I am DYING to get more details on. And his MMC is going to be an absolute gem, I just know it. They aren't the only two characters I'm curious about though, so I have high hopes that this series ends up being as long, if not longer, than the single dad's club. There were certainly plenty of fire fighters and EMT's to go around, so fingers crossed.
Of course, it wouldn't be an EM Lindsey book without strong disability rep, and we are introduced to several characters, Leo included, with various disabilities. It's woven in flawlessly as always and adds diversity where so often there is none to be found.
ARC received from theauthoragency. This is my full and honest review.
An incredibly strong start to a new fire fighter series. I am HOOKED. HOOKED I tell you.
North is our resident fire fighter. He is a bird dad. He is 29 (?) and a virgin. He is an absolute green flag, care bear looking after his family because the male figures in his life are the literal worst. He knows his way around the kitchen and he's insanely attracted to his best friend (Easton's) younger brother - Leo, who he accidentally saw naked one time and who now 'hates' him as a result.
Leo is trying to figure out what he wants to do with his life. He experienced a life changing injury in an accident that also cost him his husband, has seizures and other challenges now as a result of his TBI, and he's been a bit adrift ever since. He is entirely unimpressed with his older brother's best friend, who is a neighbour of sorts, and who keeps attracting crows into the neighbourhood and Leo's trash cans by default. He's also insanely attracted to North, but figures the hot, slightly older fire fighter with a snarky mouth wouldn't ever want him.
When these two interact, at first, it's like oil and water. Every time either of them opens their mouths they're sticking their feet in it. Or misinterpret what the other is saying. They can't seem to help it, their mutual attraction towards one another turning them into buffoons whenever they're in spitting distance.
Of course, things happen. They start to actually adult and the next thing they know there's supply closets involved and suddenly they're looking at each other in a different light... ugh, it was glorious. A slow burn, back and forth, 'hate' to love that I could get behind. Both characters were adorable in their own way and once they each pulled their own heads out, they quickly realised just how perfect for one another they were.
There's a lot happening in this book. We're setting up our main two characters and their back stories, but there are also a lot of side characters happening and making their presence known. I am SO EXCITED for book two!! Easton (the bestie/brother) clearly had things going on in this book that I am DYING to get more details on. And his MMC is going to be an absolute gem, I just know it. They aren't the only two characters I'm curious about though, so I have high hopes that this series ends up being as long, if not longer, than the single dad's club. There were certainly plenty of fire fighters and EMT's to go around, so fingers crossed.
Of course, it wouldn't be an EM Lindsey book without strong disability rep, and we are introduced to several characters, Leo included, with various disabilities. It's woven in flawlessly as always and adds diversity where so often there is none to be found.
ARC received from theauthoragency. This is my full and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Altro
ARC REVIEW
DON’T FALL (SERIE STORM SEASON 1) di E.M. Lindsey
VOTO: 4⭐
PAGINE: 328
USCITA: 01/07/2026
RECENSIONE: Don’t fall è il primo volume della nuova serie Storm Season. I protagonisti di questo libro sono North, che è un vigile del fuoco e Leo, fratello minore del collega e migliore amico di North, Easton. North non ha mai avuto una relazione per via di gravi problemi familiari, ma ha una cotta per Leo. Entrambi però, soprattutto all’inizio, sembrano non capirsi per niente: ogni volta che interagiscono, uno dei due ferisce l’altro che li porta ad essere cauti e diffidenti l’uno con l’altro. Leo è vedovo: dopo un terribile incidente, ha perso per sempre il marito ma non solo: l’incidente lo ha lasciato con problemi all’anca, ha bisogno di camminare con un bastone e non solo: cadendo, ha sbattuto la testa che gli ha portato ad avere afasia e convulsioni. Proprio uno di questi attacchi porterà North ad avvicinarsi a Leo, complice anche il fatto che vivano a poca distanza l’uno dall’altro nel quartiere. Ma non solo: Leo resta vittima di un altro incidente e la squadra di vigili del fuoco è la prima ad intervenire. Con la benedizione di Easton, Leo si trasferisce a casa di North e i due potranno finalmente iniziare ad avere una vera relazione e non solo momenti rubati. Tra i due ho decisamente preferito Leo, leggere i suoi pensieri ma soprattutto la sua storia, mi ha fatto commuovere. Anche North però ha un passato molto doloroso e come coppia sono davvero belli assieme. Nel libro ci sono scenette simpatiche con un piccolo corvo con una zampa e altri colleghi e amici, in particolare, chi mi ha intrigata di più, è stato Rune: anche lui ha un passato complicato e credo potrebbe diventare uno dei miei personaggi preferiti della serie. Ho ricevuto una copia Arc in cambio della mia opinione sincera.
***
ARC REVIEW
DON’T FALL (STORM SEASON SERIES #1) by E.M. Lindsey
Don’t fall is book one of the brand new series “Storm Season” by E.M. Lindsey. This time the new main characters are North, a firefighter and Leo, a writer and Easton’s brother. Easton and North are best friends and co-workers. The relationship between Leo and North is not the romantic love story: they don’t really get along very well at first and there are a lot of awkwards moments where they aren’t able to “connect” to each other. But the more time passes and the more they finally start to know each other better, they start to become lovers and they have a lot of sexy moments together. Leo loves the food that Easton brings home, but he doesn’t know that it is North that cooks for the firefighters at the station. North has a cute crow with one leg that is a trouble for Leo and this is another reason that they have to spend more time together. Leo is a widower: after a terrible accident, he lost his husband forever and that left him with hip problems: he needs to walk with a cane but when he fell, he hit his head, which led to seizures. During one of these ones, North is at home with him and he takes care of Leo. This episode will bring them together and they are friends. But only after a fire at Leo’s house, Leo’s moves in with North. There are a lot of cute moments between the two, and I really liked all the side characters like North’s sister and North’s friend Rune. I can't wait to read his book! I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
DON’T FALL (SERIE STORM SEASON 1) di E.M. Lindsey
VOTO: 4⭐
PAGINE: 328
USCITA: 01/07/2026
RECENSIONE: Don’t fall è il primo volume della nuova serie Storm Season. I protagonisti di questo libro sono North, che è un vigile del fuoco e Leo, fratello minore del collega e migliore amico di North, Easton. North non ha mai avuto una relazione per via di gravi problemi familiari, ma ha una cotta per Leo. Entrambi però, soprattutto all’inizio, sembrano non capirsi per niente: ogni volta che interagiscono, uno dei due ferisce l’altro che li porta ad essere cauti e diffidenti l’uno con l’altro. Leo è vedovo: dopo un terribile incidente, ha perso per sempre il marito ma non solo: l’incidente lo ha lasciato con problemi all’anca, ha bisogno di camminare con un bastone e non solo: cadendo, ha sbattuto la testa che gli ha portato ad avere afasia e convulsioni. Proprio uno di questi attacchi porterà North ad avvicinarsi a Leo, complice anche il fatto che vivano a poca distanza l’uno dall’altro nel quartiere. Ma non solo: Leo resta vittima di un altro incidente e la squadra di vigili del fuoco è la prima ad intervenire. Con la benedizione di Easton, Leo si trasferisce a casa di North e i due potranno finalmente iniziare ad avere una vera relazione e non solo momenti rubati. Tra i due ho decisamente preferito Leo, leggere i suoi pensieri ma soprattutto la sua storia, mi ha fatto commuovere. Anche North però ha un passato molto doloroso e come coppia sono davvero belli assieme. Nel libro ci sono scenette simpatiche con un piccolo corvo con una zampa e altri colleghi e amici, in particolare, chi mi ha intrigata di più, è stato Rune: anche lui ha un passato complicato e credo potrebbe diventare uno dei miei personaggi preferiti della serie. Ho ricevuto una copia Arc in cambio della mia opinione sincera.
***
ARC REVIEW
DON’T FALL (STORM SEASON SERIES #1) by E.M. Lindsey
Don’t fall is book one of the brand new series “Storm Season” by E.M. Lindsey. This time the new main characters are North, a firefighter and Leo, a writer and Easton’s brother. Easton and North are best friends and co-workers. The relationship between Leo and North is not the romantic love story: they don’t really get along very well at first and there are a lot of awkwards moments where they aren’t able to “connect” to each other. But the more time passes and the more they finally start to know each other better, they start to become lovers and they have a lot of sexy moments together. Leo loves the food that Easton brings home, but he doesn’t know that it is North that cooks for the firefighters at the station. North has a cute crow with one leg that is a trouble for Leo and this is another reason that they have to spend more time together. Leo is a widower: after a terrible accident, he lost his husband forever and that left him with hip problems: he needs to walk with a cane but when he fell, he hit his head, which led to seizures. During one of these ones, North is at home with him and he takes care of Leo. This episode will bring them together and they are friends. But only after a fire at Leo’s house, Leo’s moves in with North. There are a lot of cute moments between the two, and I really liked all the side characters like North’s sister and North’s friend Rune. I can't wait to read his book! I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 8, 2026
Leo is a 28 year old former archivist and aspiring author. He has been grieving the death of his husband and his former life for 6 years. He has mobility issues and a traumatic brain injury as a result of the same incident where his husband lost his life. He moved back to Massachusetts from Arizona to be near his brother, Easten. Easten has looked after Leo since he was discharged from the hospital, even though Leo is insistent that he can take care of himself.
Easten’s best friend, North, lives in a house behind Leo’s. Leo hates that North attracts the crows by feeding them and that they rip his rubbish bags apart and leave it, and loads of bird crap, all over his lawn and porch. North likes to be useful and tries to help anybody who needs it. He grew up taking care of his three sisters and his mum, which he still does. When Easten tells him that he thinks Leo isn’t looking after himself or eating properly, North makes meals for Leo’s freezer during his downtime at the station. As North and Leo clash when they see each other, East takes the meals but doesn’t say who they’re from.
A side effect from the TBI is that Leo is prone to seizures, especially if he gets stressed. After having been chewed out by North at the station for eating food he was saving for somebody else, then arriving home to a yard full of crap, Leo sees red. He decides to attempt to make a replacement carbonara for North so he’ll stop sending his crows to torment him. As he’s cooking, the stress continues to rise then he storms off to North’s with the spaghetti. As he’s handing the food over, he realises he’s about to seize at the same time North does.
My thoughts…
Leo and North each have their own pasts filled with challenges that need to be explored. They both struggle with self-doubt; Leo’s insecurity stems mainly from his marriage, while North feels the weight of his perceived responsibility towards his family.
This story has a familiar enemies-to-lovers dynamic, but as the main characters delve into their dislike for each other, it becomes clear that there were misunderstandings on both sides. It’s truly heartwarming when they finally connect, especially since Leo doubts his own worth because his husband picked at him and he carries a lot of emotional baggage, especially since the incident. North feels responsible for everything that goes wrong, and the constant care of his family since childhood has kept him from exploring his sexuality, even though he knows he’s gay. So, he’s a 29-year-old virgin.
Please make sure that you check CW/TW before reading but,if you can, grab it as soon as you can. Recommended.
4⭐️ 3.5🌶️
Easten’s best friend, North, lives in a house behind Leo’s. Leo hates that North attracts the crows by feeding them and that they rip his rubbish bags apart and leave it, and loads of bird crap, all over his lawn and porch. North likes to be useful and tries to help anybody who needs it. He grew up taking care of his three sisters and his mum, which he still does. When Easten tells him that he thinks Leo isn’t looking after himself or eating properly, North makes meals for Leo’s freezer during his downtime at the station. As North and Leo clash when they see each other, East takes the meals but doesn’t say who they’re from.
A side effect from the TBI is that Leo is prone to seizures, especially if he gets stressed. After having been chewed out by North at the station for eating food he was saving for somebody else, then arriving home to a yard full of crap, Leo sees red. He decides to attempt to make a replacement carbonara for North so he’ll stop sending his crows to torment him. As he’s cooking, the stress continues to rise then he storms off to North’s with the spaghetti. As he’s handing the food over, he realises he’s about to seize at the same time North does.
My thoughts…
Leo and North each have their own pasts filled with challenges that need to be explored. They both struggle with self-doubt; Leo’s insecurity stems mainly from his marriage, while North feels the weight of his perceived responsibility towards his family.
This story has a familiar enemies-to-lovers dynamic, but as the main characters delve into their dislike for each other, it becomes clear that there were misunderstandings on both sides. It’s truly heartwarming when they finally connect, especially since Leo doubts his own worth because his husband picked at him and he carries a lot of emotional baggage, especially since the incident. North feels responsible for everything that goes wrong, and the constant care of his family since childhood has kept him from exploring his sexuality, even though he knows he’s gay. So, he’s a 29-year-old virgin.
Please make sure that you check CW/TW before reading but,if you can, grab it as soon as you can. Recommended.
4⭐️ 3.5🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off I hate star ratings for a few reasons.
#1 Most review sites don't give you the 1/2 star rating option. #2 In my opinion a 3 star rating is not bad. It is a rating that says I liked the book but it isn't something that I absolutely loved or felt any strong emotions about. However, most author's don't really like the lower than 4 star ratings. And finally #3 I feel like a fraud when I consistently rate a book 4 stars. Like not every book can be that good that I read, right?
Now let's get into the review of this book in particular. I did receive an ARC for this book and I am very grateful for that because I love E.M. Lindsey as an author. This book was not particularly my favorite one of theirs. It definitely was NOT a bad book in any way. It just wasn't something that I was overly invested in while reading.
The main characters, North and Leo had quite a bit of issues with communication in the beginning. Unfortunately Leo is dealing with a TBI he got which left him with aphasia and seizures. He takes things that North says a little too much to heart sometimes because of the way he sees himself. North comes off as an ass at times, not because he is, but just because he doesn't always necessarily think of what he says or how he says them and he definitely has foot in mouth disease. North is also Leo's, brother's, best friend.
Eventually these two start understanding each other a little better and begin communicating easier. They are both filled with so much trauma that they have had to deal with in their lives. So of course they both get into their own heads at times. Their first kiss was definitely something you could clearly see coming and the way E.M. wrote it was a highlight of the book.
"My lips part on a gasp, and he waits one single, solitary second before slamming his mouth over mine and taking me in the most devastating kiss of my life."
There was not a ton of spice in the book which I of course don't always necessarily mind. You don't really get to the big spicy parts until you are almost at the end of the book. Maybe it is because I read too much dark romance but this book just didn't evoke any big emotions in me and it made it a little harder to get through personally. If you are a fan of lower angst books though this one is something you should pick up. I will definitely not disparage the book cause it was not bad at all, it just maybe wasn't quite for me.
I will continue to read their books though since just because this one wasn't for me.... I still absolutely love their stories
#1 Most review sites don't give you the 1/2 star rating option. #2 In my opinion a 3 star rating is not bad. It is a rating that says I liked the book but it isn't something that I absolutely loved or felt any strong emotions about. However, most author's don't really like the lower than 4 star ratings. And finally #3 I feel like a fraud when I consistently rate a book 4 stars. Like not every book can be that good that I read, right?
Now let's get into the review of this book in particular. I did receive an ARC for this book and I am very grateful for that because I love E.M. Lindsey as an author. This book was not particularly my favorite one of theirs. It definitely was NOT a bad book in any way. It just wasn't something that I was overly invested in while reading.
The main characters, North and Leo had quite a bit of issues with communication in the beginning. Unfortunately Leo is dealing with a TBI he got which left him with aphasia and seizures. He takes things that North says a little too much to heart sometimes because of the way he sees himself. North comes off as an ass at times, not because he is, but just because he doesn't always necessarily think of what he says or how he says them and he definitely has foot in mouth disease. North is also Leo's, brother's, best friend.
Eventually these two start understanding each other a little better and begin communicating easier. They are both filled with so much trauma that they have had to deal with in their lives. So of course they both get into their own heads at times. Their first kiss was definitely something you could clearly see coming and the way E.M. wrote it was a highlight of the book.
"My lips part on a gasp, and he waits one single, solitary second before slamming his mouth over mine and taking me in the most devastating kiss of my life."
There was not a ton of spice in the book which I of course don't always necessarily mind. You don't really get to the big spicy parts until you are almost at the end of the book. Maybe it is because I read too much dark romance but this book just didn't evoke any big emotions in me and it made it a little harder to get through personally. If you are a fan of lower angst books though this one is something you should pick up. I will definitely not disparage the book cause it was not bad at all, it just maybe wasn't quite for me.
I will continue to read their books though since just because this one wasn't for me.... I still absolutely love their stories
Review of advance copy received from Author
Alright, while I knew it was going to be good, I wasn’t prepared for so many emotions, and for more than our two MCs!
I love Lindsey’s writing so much, I don’t know what it is exactly, but all of her books I’ve read felt like coming home.
Like here, it was not even 15% that all the characters - both main and side - already felt like friends, the atmosphere, the banter between them, was just so warm and cozy that I could feel my heart relaxing 🥹
Another one of my favourite things is that Lindsey really is a queen of writing real people and emotions and heavy things that make you appreciate your life more ❣️
This book has quite a number of very strong and beautifully done representations, the TBI, mental health and trauma, PTSD and SMA.. And the way it is handled truly is remarkable, heartwarming and healing ❤️🩹
The next of Lindsey’s specialties is of course, the -found- family aspect. Leo and North don’t exist in a vacuum, and you connect with the family, friends and co-workers effortlessly. They have a distinct place in the story, they are interesting on their own, and it’s remarkable when side characters make you cry, because Rune!!! 😭
But of course, the stars are Leo and North, and I am so happy these two babies found each other!! 💞 Both of them have been through so much, and life kept being such a bitch to them throughout the book, that I wanted to scream!
The chemistry between them, especially those first interactions, ohohoh!! 🥵 The tension had me sizzling and squirming 🤭 Everything about their relationship was perfectly done, the connection, the communication, how the feelings evolved - zero remarks 🤌
“I want to get fucked silly and brainless, then curl up in his arms and ask him ridiculous, inane questions like what his favorite ice cream flavor is, and if it changes when it’s summer or winter. Or if he puts his socks on left then right, or right then left.”
Separate mention for BOTH of the ILOVEYOU confessions.
I guess it happened before, but it’s definitely not a common thing with me, that they both made me cry and it was so deserved, so raw and human and beautiful ❤🔥
Thank you so much to E.M. Lindsey for this balm-to-a-heart of a story, I am so happy to have been on an ARC team for it, and I honestly am so anxious about the next installment it’s crazy!
Amazing start of the series ❤🔥
I love Lindsey’s writing so much, I don’t know what it is exactly, but all of her books I’ve read felt like coming home.
Like here, it was not even 15% that all the characters - both main and side - already felt like friends, the atmosphere, the banter between them, was just so warm and cozy that I could feel my heart relaxing 🥹
Another one of my favourite things is that Lindsey really is a queen of writing real people and emotions and heavy things that make you appreciate your life more ❣️
This book has quite a number of very strong and beautifully done representations, the TBI, mental health and trauma, PTSD and SMA.. And the way it is handled truly is remarkable, heartwarming and healing ❤️🩹
The next of Lindsey’s specialties is of course, the -found- family aspect. Leo and North don’t exist in a vacuum, and you connect with the family, friends and co-workers effortlessly. They have a distinct place in the story, they are interesting on their own, and it’s remarkable when side characters make you cry, because Rune!!! 😭
But of course, the stars are Leo and North, and I am so happy these two babies found each other!! 💞 Both of them have been through so much, and life kept being such a bitch to them throughout the book, that I wanted to scream!
The chemistry between them, especially those first interactions, ohohoh!! 🥵 The tension had me sizzling and squirming 🤭 Everything about their relationship was perfectly done, the connection, the communication, how the feelings evolved - zero remarks 🤌
“I want to get fucked silly and brainless, then curl up in his arms and ask him ridiculous, inane questions like what his favorite ice cream flavor is, and if it changes when it’s summer or winter. Or if he puts his socks on left then right, or right then left.”
Separate mention for BOTH of the ILOVEYOU confessions.
I guess it happened before, but it’s definitely not a common thing with me, that they both made me cry and it was so deserved, so raw and human and beautiful ❤🔥
Thank you so much to E.M. Lindsey for this balm-to-a-heart of a story, I am so happy to have been on an ARC team for it, and I honestly am so anxious about the next installment it’s crazy!
Amazing start of the series ❤🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
Safety info, content warnings and tropes down below.
Unfortunately, none of this worked for me. It didn’t feel like an E.M. Lindsey book at all, which is a huge shame. It didn't have the same feel as they usually do, and even when objectively emotional things were happening, it didn’t make me feel anything. The romance also suffered because the enemies part of the ‘enemies to lovers’ felt wholly contrived. They kept going around in circles about the same things that could've been fixed with one conversation, and the issues in their relationship kept coming back for no reason, pretty much up until the very end. I didn’t see any development between them or for their respective characters, which made the book feel even more repetitive than it already was. It took me forever to get a grip on North’s character because the whole conflict is based on him being a dick towards Leo, but there’s genuinely no reason for him to act that way, made even more evident by the fact he never acts that way toward anyone else. In the context of how he says he feels about Leo, it doesn’t make any sense.
The disability rep was good, as it usually is with E.M. Lindsey’s books, but this time it wasn't enough to make up for the general weirdness of everything else. A pretty generous 3 stars.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Virgin
EMT/firefighter
Widower
Neighbors
Enemies to lovers
Small town
Yearning
Brother's best friend
Disability rep
Coming in his pants
Push and pull
Nipple piercings
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mentions of parent being a drug addict (past)
References to MC being physically abused by parental figure
MC living with a TBI
Mentions of a child dying (past, EMS call)
On-page seizure (MC)
Explicit sexual content
Ableist comments by minor characters
Mentions of domestic abuse (between MC's parents)
MC injured in house fire (hospitalized)
Suicidal ideation (MC, mostly past)
Anxiety and panic attacks
Mental health crisis and hospitalization (MC's parent)
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance, queer
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 28 and 29
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 328
Happy ending: Yes
The crush is easy. Liking him is complicated.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
Unfortunately, none of this worked for me. It didn’t feel like an E.M. Lindsey book at all, which is a huge shame. It didn't have the same feel as they usually do, and even when objectively emotional things were happening, it didn’t make me feel anything. The romance also suffered because the enemies part of the ‘enemies to lovers’ felt wholly contrived. They kept going around in circles about the same things that could've been fixed with one conversation, and the issues in their relationship kept coming back for no reason, pretty much up until the very end. I didn’t see any development between them or for their respective characters, which made the book feel even more repetitive than it already was. It took me forever to get a grip on North’s character because the whole conflict is based on him being a dick towards Leo, but there’s genuinely no reason for him to act that way, made even more evident by the fact he never acts that way toward anyone else. In the context of how he says he feels about Leo, it doesn’t make any sense.
The disability rep was good, as it usually is with E.M. Lindsey’s books, but this time it wasn't enough to make up for the general weirdness of everything else. A pretty generous 3 stars.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Virgin
EMT/firefighter
Widower
Neighbors
Enemies to lovers
Small town
Yearning
Brother's best friend
Disability rep
Coming in his pants
Push and pull
Nipple piercings
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mentions of parent being a drug addict (past)
References to MC being physically abused by parental figure
MC living with a TBI
Mentions of a child dying (past, EMS call)
On-page seizure (MC)
Explicit sexual content
Ableist comments by minor characters
Mentions of domestic abuse (between MC's parents)
MC injured in house fire (hospitalized)
Suicidal ideation (MC, mostly past)
Anxiety and panic attacks
Mental health crisis and hospitalization (MC's parent)
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance, queer
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 28 and 29
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 328
Happy ending: Yes
The crush is easy. Liking him is complicated.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
Review of advance copy received from Author
Leo has had a lot going on in his life, and truthfully he is barely living. My heart really went out to Leo; he is battling a lot of grief but also trying to work through his new normal. Outwardly people saw an angry person that pushed people away, but that is not who he is. Leo definitely has a lot of built up emotions but doesn’t know the best way to work through them- but he worked on it and was very self reflective.
North is the guy that puts everyone and everything ahead of himself, a true people pleaser to his core. He sacrificed a lot for his family and really had to grow up fast and never really experienced the awkward coming of age things teens and college kids do. North just also just going through the motions of life, but thrives when he can take care of others. Cooking is most definitely his love language- he cooks for his family, the first responders at the station, and for Leo. The man he is pretty sure cannot stand him. But he cannot resist making him chicken and dumplings.
The miscommunication was almost comical between Leo and North. The banter, the attempts to put one another in their place that always seems to be disastrous. Both were inexplicably drawn to each other and were both really bad at reading the other initially. I may be squealed by the epic electric chemistry when the enemies finally become lovers! Let me just say that it was so so good, friends! While North may love to take care of Leo, Leo is able to offer North emotional support in the way that he has not been able to experience. They way that they are quietly there to offer support to one another really ended up being what made me love Leo and North so darn much! One of the best parts of E.M Lindsey’s books is that the disability representation is always so amazing. It isn’t just a mention, it is carried throughout the book and series- it is shown in the way the characters interact with others and the world around them. If you love enemies to lovers, brothers best friend, hurt/comfort, small town, virgin and so much more this book is a must read for you!
North is the guy that puts everyone and everything ahead of himself, a true people pleaser to his core. He sacrificed a lot for his family and really had to grow up fast and never really experienced the awkward coming of age things teens and college kids do. North just also just going through the motions of life, but thrives when he can take care of others. Cooking is most definitely his love language- he cooks for his family, the first responders at the station, and for Leo. The man he is pretty sure cannot stand him. But he cannot resist making him chicken and dumplings.
The miscommunication was almost comical between Leo and North. The banter, the attempts to put one another in their place that always seems to be disastrous. Both were inexplicably drawn to each other and were both really bad at reading the other initially. I may be squealed by the epic electric chemistry when the enemies finally become lovers! Let me just say that it was so so good, friends! While North may love to take care of Leo, Leo is able to offer North emotional support in the way that he has not been able to experience. They way that they are quietly there to offer support to one another really ended up being what made me love Leo and North so darn much! One of the best parts of E.M Lindsey’s books is that the disability representation is always so amazing. It isn’t just a mention, it is carried throughout the book and series- it is shown in the way the characters interact with others and the world around them. If you love enemies to lovers, brothers best friend, hurt/comfort, small town, virgin and so much more this book is a must read for you!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 231 reviews