Neve Snowe doesn't need to settle down. She is already settled in her small harbor town, with a cozy beach cottage and part ownership in the family-run auto repair shop. She doesn't want a man, but she likes them. And she has one golden only sleep with flatlanders. You know, the guys who never intend to stay in Lovewell Landing, only use the coastal area for a brief holiday.
And the last thing she desired was the unexpected . . . to be expecting.
Tate Love spent his summers in Lovewell Landing as a teenager, but somehow he'd missed the beautiful girl who turned into a spunky woman, daring him to jump into the icy ocean one New Year's Eve, then slept with him near the town's sacred well, holding spell-binding waters.
He never thought he'd see her again, until nine months later, a business prospect brings him back to the area.
Now, the man who longs to be tied down finds that one night planted the seed to everything he ever wanted, while he holds the pen that could sign away all she's ever loved.
Welcome to Lovewell Landing, where autumn is in the air, pumpkins decorate every doorstep, and a little fiasco might cause opposites to fall in love.
Fall Love is a steamy, romantic comedy companion novel to The Holiday Post and continues the romances of the Snowe sisters in the beautiful and quirky small town of Lovewell Landing.
L.B. Dunbar loves sexy silver foxes, second chances, and small towns. If you enjoy older characters in your romance reads, including a hero with a little silver in his scruff and a heroine rediscovering her worth, then welcome to romance for those over 40. L.B. Dunbar’s signature works include women and men in their prime taking another turn at love and happily ever after. She’s a USA TODAY Bestseller as well as #1 Bestseller on Amazon in Later in Life Romance with her Sterling Falls, Lakeside Cottage, and Road Trips & Romance series. L.B. lives in Chicago with her own sexy silver fox.
To get all the scoop about the self-proclaimed queen of silver fox romance, join her on Facebook at Loving L.B. or receive her weekly newsletter, Love Notes.
L.B. Dunbar's "Fall Love" is such a sweet, heartwarming, cozy fall story! I am usually not a huge fan of pregnancy-related romance novels, but this one really worked for me! Neve (FMC) and Tate (MMC) had a one-night stand on New Year's Eve, and she wound up pregnant but didn't know how to contact him about it since they hadn't exchanged real names or phone numbers. About nine months later, Tate, a real estate broker, shows up in Neve's town, Lovewell, Maine, looking to broker the sale of her late father's auto shop, which means the world to her but was mismanaged and needs to be sold. Tate had no idea Neve was pregnant, but wants all in on her and the baby. All he has ever wanted was a family and to be a husband, but Neve is a little prickly about everything. I loved how down bad for Neve Tate was from the get-go. He was clearly SO smitten with Neve and wanted to be with her and give her the world. Her black cat attitude, coupled with her penchant for flings over long-term relationships, however, makes her skeptical of his intentions, so she rebuffs him at every turn. The way he fell for her in big and small ways, reassuring her he was all in, was simply adorable. In fact, this whole book was adorable. I'm not saying Tate was perfect. He omitted little truths here and there, though his ultimate intentions were good and his heart was in the right place. I loved the banter between Neve and Tate. They pick and poke at each other, but never maliciously. Their chemistry was truly off-the-charts good; even their physical chemistry worked. I also love how these characters are in their 30s-almost 40s. MORE OF THIS!!! This story totally encapsulates fall in its descriptions, settings, baking shenanigans, fall small-town antics, etc. This book was a delightful treat. It's extremely well-paced; everything feels necessary, and everything moves smoothly. I loved the audiobook narration from Erin Mallon and Ryan West. They played so well off of one another! They both fully embody these characters at every turn. West truly evokes the yearning Tate feels when it comes to wanting to have a family, and Mallon shows the skepticism Neve feels about the situation and the sadness she's felt at losing her father. Just fantastic all around!!
Thank you to L.B. Dunbar for the complimentary ALC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
A surprise pregnancy, a prickly heroine, and a hero who is completely ready to build a family made this such a cozy fall romance.
Tate was immediately all in when he discovered Neve was pregnant, and watching him patiently show her that he wanted her just as much as the family he had always dreamed of was incredibly sweet. Their banter and chemistry worked so well, especially with Neve constantly trying to keep him at arm’s length.
I appreciated how mature these characters felt, too. Neve’s attachment to her family’s shop gave her a real reason to be guarded, while Tate’s actions made his feelings easy to believe even when he occasionally struggled to put everything into words. Their relationship had plenty of tenderness alongside the teasing, and I especially enjoyed watching Neve slowly realize that letting Tate into her life didn’t mean giving up the life she already loved.
The autumn setting was the cherry on top, with pumpkins, baking, apple picking, family chaos, and all those small-town touches. The sisterly dynamic was another highlight, and seeing this unexpected little family come together was genuinely sweet.
A warm, mature, feel-good romance that put me firmly in the mood for fall.
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ALC Review (Audiobook) 🎧
Erin Mallon and Ryan West made this audiobook such an enjoyable listen, bringing completely different but equally fitting energy to Neve and Tate. Mallon captured Neve’s guarded, independent nature and the vulnerability underneath it, while West gave Tate exactly the eager, affectionate energy I wanted from a man who has suddenly found the family he has always dreamed about. Their back-and-forth felt natural, especially during the teasing and softer moments, and I liked how much emotion both narrators brought to the characters’ fears and hopes. The cozy small-town setting, unexpected pregnancy, great chemistry, and autumn atmosphere all translated beautifully to audio, making this a genuinely fun companion read.
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I was so excited to experience this one in both formats. Having the ARC and ALC meant I could fully sink into the story, and honestly, it made the experience that much better.
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A sincere thank you to L.B. Dunbar and The Author Agency for the ARC! 🥰📚
I’m so grateful for the early read. As always, all thoughts and opinions are completely my own. ✨
Synopsis:Neve Snowe doesn't need to settle down. She is already settled in her small harbor town, with a cozy beach cottage and part ownership in the family-run auto repair shop. She doesn't want a man, but she likes them. And she has one golden only sleep with flatlanders. You know, the guys who never intend to stay in Lovewell Landing, only use the coastal area for a brief holiday.
And the last thing she desired was the unexpected . . . to be expecting.
Tate Love spent his summers in Lovewell Landing as a teenager, but somehow he'd missed the beautiful girl who turned into a spunky woman, daring him to jump into the icy ocean one New Year's Eve, then slept with him near the town's sacred well, holding spell-binding waters.
He never thought he'd see her again, until nine months later, a business prospect brings him back to the area.
Now, the man who longs to be tied down finds that one night planted the seed to everything he ever wanted, while he holds the pen that could sign away all she's ever loved.
Review: I absolutely adored this romance! I love despite Neve’s black cat attitude she really did love Tate! Tate was such a sweetheart and I felt bad for him in a sense that even though it was a one night stand he truly was in love with her and the way he is so considerate of her and how excited he was when he finds out he will be a father! It was a heartwarming to read! Also I over the fall vibes in this book I wish this town were real because I would have loved to visit it! I loved that Neve loved eating pumpkin flavored foods and Tate would get them for her and eat it with her despite not enjoying pumpkin! I am sad to see Neve and Tate’s story over but just as one ends a new one will begin! If you want a fall, spicy romance this book will be perfect for you!
Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book in advance!
Holy Pumpkin Pie!! This second book in Lovewell Landing series is a definite 5 star read. Packed with emotional warmth and small town scents, this book has all the brilliant colors of love. It started on an engaging note and kept me enthralled From meet cute 9 months ago in lovewell landing, Maine, to autumn equinox sunrise from between two Oaks, Tate love's life has seen life altering news shake up his carefully structured life. He's on his way to success at Hessfield holdings, disguising Vanderburg, a parent Co of Bucky beaver body shop, Tate love is the Flatlander son who returns to his old hometown. He had had an impromptu one night with Neve Snowe 9 months ago and now she's the size of a barn......yep he's the father!! The journey goes backwards. First comes baby in the carriage Then comes love Then comes.... Hahaha a read to find out All the banter, the grovel, pumpkin pancakes , the decaffeinated pumpkin spice latte dates later, the secret Tate is holding back, just explodes all around. As always Dunbar makes the story all about deep emotions. At whatever age you are...love hurts! It reels, swoons, makes you laugh and makes you cry, but ALL “Better than pie filling,” Audiobook narrated by Erin mallon is pure magic. Ryan West matches talent for talent. “5 stars for Clean Up In Aisle Three” Follow me on: Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻 TikTok 🌻 StoryGraph 🌻 YouTube 🌻
This was an absolute pleasure to read. It had some big emotional pieces, honest fears about impending parenthood, difficult conversations, mistakes, banter, sweetness, spice, and joy. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Neve is a mechanic.
Tate is a real estate broker.
They met at a New Year's Eve party. They had a one night encounter. She is now pregnant. He doesn't know because real names were not exchanged. Now he is back in town to guarantee & finalize the sale of her family's mechanic shop. Things go... well, they go. He finds out baby is his. She finds out he is the one taking her dad's shop away. So, yeah, they have a lot to discuss and navigate.
Neve is struggling. She wants so desperately to save her dad's shop, his legacy but the finances just aren't there. And she trying to figure out how to provide her baby and what her life will look like with so many changes. It is a lot. I really appreciated how her emotions & feelings were allowed space to be, even when other didn't like them or agree. She still had them and expressed them.
Tate is a sweet man and the way he is all in as soon as he finds out about his daddy to be status is just the most adorable thing. He wants to be a dad and husband so bad and is working so hard to show Neve he cares. He probably should have used his words more but you know, nobody's perfect.
They have a sweet relationship and go through some very high highs and very low lows. I loved joining them for their journey of learning & loving & choosing their futures.
LB always writes stories that my heart & brain enjoy. She brings big emotions and really strong relationship dynamics and I am here for it. And I love that her characters are older.
I received this as an ARC and am so grateful for the opportunity. This had no influence on my review.
Fall Love was such a charming return to Lovewell Landing! I first met the Snowe sisters in The Holiday Post, and I loved getting Neve's story. A New Year's Eve one-night stand, an unexpected pregnancy, and a little small-town magic bring Neve and Tate back together in the sweetest way. Neve is fiercely independent and guarded with her heart, while Tate is the kind of man who knows exactly what he wants—a family and a future with her. I absolutely loved how he showed up for Neve, not just because of the baby, but because he genuinely wanted her. Their chemistry, playful banter, and adorable fall dates made this such an enjoyable romance. I also appreciated the emotional depth of Neve's journey as she worked through her grief and learned that moving forward doesn't mean letting go of the people she's lost.
The audiobook, narrated by Erin Mallon and Ryan West, was a joy to listen to! I've always enjoyed this narrating duo, and they did a wonderful job capturing Neve and Tate's personalities, emotions, and fun banter. Erin's expressive performance brought Neve's sass and vulnerability to life, while Ryan was a perfect fit for Tate's warmth and determination. Between the cozy autumn atmosphere, familiar faces, heartfelt moments, and wonderful narration, this was a delightful start to the Lovewell Landing series. I can't wait to return for the next book!
Spice Level: 🌶🌶.5 5-6 scenes over 6 chapters! Starts as a ONS but it’s off-page, so the first hookup isn’t until 52%.
This was my first L.B. Dunbar book, and I’ll for sure be coming back for more! It was such a fun read. I’m not normally a surprise pregnancy trope person, but I loved how this one was done.
Neve is just trying to get through each day, one day at a time. You see, things are kind of a mess. She’s in her late 30s and has found herself pregnant, due in a month, single, and about to lose the mechanic shop her father left her and her sisters. It’s her life and has been for as long as she can remember. But it wasn’t doing well, and it’s time to sell and move on. Enter Tate. The man in charge of handling the sale of the shop to the new owners. He’s not quite a local, but spent his summers in Lovewell Landing growing up, so he’s familiar with the town. Oh, and he also happens to be the guy Neve had a ONS with roughly nine months ago… yeah. He’s the baby daddy. He doesn’t know it, though. What was fun about this is Tate was all in even before he knew the baby was his. While Neve never really saw herself being a mom, Tate has always wanted to be a dad. So he is just so excited. Once he finds out he’s the father, that man jumps in headfirst. He buys a car, a house, decorates a nursery; he’s here to stay even if Neve isn’t convinced of that.
However, he’s been keeping quite a big secret that threatens to tear apart everything these two have been building once Neve finds out.
Layers and layers here, folks! But what a fun, sweet fall read with a tiny hint of small-town magic and a crazy aunt! Gotta love the crazy aunts who are kookie af, yet their kooks seem to be true more often than not!
Nothing crazy on the spice side. Takes a bit to pick up in that department, but once it does, we get a few great scenes!
I received this as an ARC & ALC. Narration by Erin Mallon and Ryan West
This was such a wonderful read and listen. I thought I was going to get this warm cozy sweet romance. Instead I got this beautifully written emotion filled romance that had me deep into this story. Neve and Tate were so amazing in this small town story. When Tate had come back and realized he’d left behind more than just Neve, he was all on board with taking care of her and their baby. I loved the depth of this story. The sweetness and emotions that it brought. And the narrators did such a wonder job bringing this story to life. I felt every part of this from their words. I absolutely loved this story.
*Thank you to the author, L.B Dunbar, for providing me with eARC. All opinions are my own*
I adored Neve and Tate’s story! It’s such a heartwarming story that had me overflowing with emotions. I had a feeling that I was going to enjoy this book. Since I discovered the author last year, there hasn’t been a book of hers that I haven’t loved. However, there is something about Fall In Love, that will have you falling in love with the characters, especially Neve and Tate. I loved the way Tate took care of Nave, despite the way she pushed him away. Although the two of them had a one-night stand, you could tell that they cared about each other more than that, even if Neve tried to deny her feelings. I loved how excited Tate was when he found out he was the father, and how willing he was to do anything to take care of Neve and the baby.
I loved all the fall vibes in this book. All the descriptions in this book made me wish Lovewell Landing were real so that I could visit. It sounded just like my type of town. Fall In Love is the type of book that, once you pick it up, you will have trouble putting back down. I wanted to keep on reading this book, but because of school, I had to force myself to put it down. I did find myself thinking about the story and wondering what would happen next with Neve and Tate. I understood why Neve didn’t want to let him in, but I was hoping that she would see that he was here to stay and that he cared about her. I was rooting for them all the way through the book.
This story will touch your heart in so many ways. The depth of the characters was phenomenal, especially for Neve and Tate. I fell in love with Tate from the beginning; he’s the type of guy that every girl dreams about. Everything he did for Neve melted my heart and had me smiling. I wish I could give this book more than five stars; it deserves every star. I’m excited for the next book in the series. Highly recommended for romance fans, especially small-town tropes.
If you’re looking for a fantastic fall read, you should definitely check this one out.
As the first book in a new series, it delivers on so many fronts: second-chance romance, enemies-to-lovers (ish), a cinnamon roll MMC who falls first, and an accidental pregnancy trope done right.
Neve is an eight-month-pregnant mechanic fiercely determined to save her father's legacy. Tate is a high-stakes real estate broker angling for the deal of a lifetime. When Tate shows up at Neve’s shop to discuss its sale, sparks fly—and so does recognition. It turns out they aren't strangers at all: they had a passionate one-night stand on New Year’s Eve, exactly eight months ago.
Watching their love story unfold is pure joy. Tate instantly stepping up with a desire to care for both Neve and the baby is deeply endearing—exactly what Neve’s somewhat jaded heart needs.
Set in a picturesque, small coastal Maine town, the setting feels like a character in its own right and grounds the story in wonderful cozy vibes
A quirky, fun cast of supporting characters adds a refreshing layer of humor and heart to the narrative.
A cute, spicy, and charmingly funny small-town romance that will completely capture your heart!
Thanks to @lbdunbarwrites for the #gifted copies of this book. 🫶
My Thoughts: Fall Love was such a cute story that really put me in the mood for fall. Accidental pregnancy is a hit or miss for me, but this one was done so well. What was a one-night stand turned into a beautiful love story nine months later between two parents-to-be.
I loved Tate from the start, despite what brought him to town. He supported Neve from the moment he found out about her surprise and was all in. He patiently broke down Neve's walls to build trust with her, because she and the baby were his dream life.
Neve's determination to make the garage profitable again was admirable, so watching it being taken from her was hard. But I loved how she slowly let down her guard and let Tate in enough to help take care of her before the baby came. Neve and Tate were perfect for each other, and I loved watching their story take shape.
🎧Erin Mallon and Ryan West did a fantastic job with this audio. I really enjoyed listening to this dual narration.
What You'll Find: ♥️Reunited lovers 🍼 One-night stand turned nine months later 🍁Pumpkin spice and apple picking 🎯Strip darts 🍼Accidental pregnancy ☀️Sunshine hero x prickly heroine 🥧Small town sweet and sexy
Title- FALL LOVE Author- L.B. Dunbar Genre- Cozy Romance Series- Lovewell Landing Book 1
Trope City- 🧡 Pregnancy 🧡 Small Town 🧡 Reunited One Night Stand 🧡 Opposites Attract 🧡 Second Chance
I’m in the era of loving a well-written pregnancy trope! This story is all good things. Neve (Not Eve) (FMC) is hard at work as a mechanic… who’s also far too pregnant to be doing that job. Mid-oil change, a one night stand from her recent past walks in. Tate Love (MMC) is that one night of fun turned baby daddy. He has no idea he’s the father. He’s actually there for business. Neve naturally hates in to start because he’ll play a role in selling her dad’s business. She feels connected to her dad working in the garage. Her sisters have decided selling is what’s necessary. Tate comes through looking to involve himself in that transaction and instead, get a whole unborn child out of it. This journey of theirs is emotional, charming, witty, uncertain, wild and so sweet. Can a one night stand in your 40s turn in to your HEA?!
Thank you The Author Agency and L.B. Dunbar for sharing this with me! Happy Pub Day! 🧡🍁
Fall Love is a heartwarming love story that is overflowing with emotions that will have your pulse racing, your heart breaking at times and your soul rejoicing. Tate and Neve met on NYE, what was supposed to be a one night stand has the magic of the town ensuring this is not the last these two will see of each other. However, these two appear to have fate or destiny on their side ensuring that there will be a connection between them for a life time. Tate wants it all, forever, love, family and a woman that he just can't stop thinking about. Neve wants to believe in forever but she is frightened of goodbyes and tries to lock her heart down. This is a story that touches your heart and has you believing in a little magical thing called love. There is plenty of drama, witty banter, heated moments and undeniable chemistry to have you drawn into this small town romance. If Neve and Tate can't make you believe in love then no one can.
This heartwarming story was adorable! I fell for how hard Tate fell for Neve. He was full of green flag energy. And I didn’t spend half the book internally screaming “tell her!!” like I did in another book. Instead, I saw how smitten he was from the start. I saw how he quickly realized Neve could be the key to making his dreams come true. I especially loved the energy he put into making her feel wanted.
Ryan West definitely delivered in his performance as Tate. He practically screamed “green flag energy” throughout, but especially when Tate decided [actions redacted to prevent spoilers].
Neve was an exceptional black cat and Erin Mallow played her in a heart- warming, easy to listen to way. Neve’s concerns of “you want a baby, fine. But do you want me?” were so real to me and she handled them in a familiar way.
I thoroughly enjoyed this ALC and send thanks to The author and Literally Yours PR!
📚 I received an ALC from the author. Thank you so much L.B. Dunbar and The Author Agency for letting me review this book before the publication date!
What a fun story about finding love when you least expect it. Neve is content in her life running her family auto repair shop, other than the fact that she isn’t sure she can keep up with the bills anymore. In walks Tate, a real estate developer and boy is Tate shocked to see the woman he met last New Years Eve with quite the large baby bump!
🍁 I love the late in life ages and the fact that they are settled 🍁 Oh, the fall of it all…apple picking, pumpkins, all the small town vibes 🍁 I love that she’s a little prickly and doesn’t need a man 🍁 Erin Mallon and Ryan West did fantastic with the audiobook
Fav Quotes:
”You just gave him plus twenty for those gray sweats, didn’t you?”
“Meet-cute?” I giggle “What the hell is that?” “You know, that romantic moment when a couple meets. All the best romcoms have them, as do romance novels” “And now I’m extra curious what exactly you read”
“Little Wrench is really lucky to have you as a father”
I really appreciated that the characters in this book were a little older, in their 30s and 40s. I feel like we need more romances featuring characters in this stage of life because it’s not something we see nearly enough!
I’m not usually a fan of the unexpected pregnancy trope, but I actually felt like it worked really well for this story. I loved how, once Tate found out, he immediately wanted to be there for Nev and step up for her. Their chemistry and banter were so fun, and while there was definitely some back-and-forth between them, it never felt malicious. It was more heartwarming, cute, and honestly just fun to read.
Overall, this was such a fun, easy read with great chemistry, plenty of banter, and characters I enjoyed getting to know.
Thank you to author L. B. Dunbar for the arc of Fall Love! I love that L. B.’s main characters are usually in their 40’s or older. Neve and Tate are opposites in some ways especially when it comes to love but their one night stand meant more to them than just attraction and I was so glad work and then their accidental pregnancy brought them closer together and eventually they found love. I also loved that it took almost no time at all for Tate to be all in on them as a couple and a family. He definitely fell first and harder which I enjoyed. I also enjoyed the activities and dates they go on that are cute and thoughtful.
Reunited lovers One night stand turned nine months later Pumpkin spice and apple picking Strip darts Accidental pregnancy Sunshine hero x prickly heroine Small town sweet and sexy Dual POV - 1st person
Dual narration - Erin Mallon & Ryan West These two were great together.
Book #1 Lovewell Landing series
What a heartwarming, fun, and cute story. This book is perfect for that almost autumn time of year. The characters are so adorably sweet and I loved them. The story is easily enjoyed and the narrators did a beautiful job bringing this book to life.
Thank you L.B. Dunbar & Literally Yours PR for this eARC & ALC.
I always enjoy L.B. Dunbar's books, and this one did not disappoint. I loved the small town, the older characters, the fall setting, the glimpses of characters from a previous book. Neve and Tate were such a great pair. I loved all the connections they had and the way he would do just about anything for her. He fell first and he fell hard.
Erin Mallon and Ryan West did a terrific job bringing the characters to life.
A beautifully written, feel good romance. Our H/h are around 40, which I really liked and I know this author writes mostly older couples, so I'll be reading more of her books. 4.5 stars
“Fall Love” by L.B. Dunbar is the first book in the "Lovewell Landing" series but it interconnects with "The Holiday Post".
I received an advance review copy of the book and audiobook from the author. Opinions from this review are completely my own.
What you can expect:
contemporary romance mechanic x real estate broker one night stand surprise pregnancy he falls first small town
Neve Snowe is a mechanic and part owner of the family's auto repair shop. After a one night stand on New Year's Eve, she finds out she is pregnant, but doesn't think she will meet the guy again.
Until 9 months later, Tate Loves comes to town to convince her family to sell the repair shop and finds out he will be a dad.
I love the books with surprise pregnancy when the dad is involved immediately after finding out. Neve and Tate are both mature and manage to have a second chance together.
She is struggling to find a way of providing for her baby and he is doing his best to show her his feelings and that he wants to be in their life.
The audiobook is narrated by Erin Mallon and Ryan West. They both did a great job bringing the characters to life and made the experience of the story even better. It was great to be able to switch between formats or immersive read the book.
I really enjoyed this ~ Nieve is very guarded and in her unexpected condition, never anticipated to come face to face with her baby daddy. That is because she didn't have a name or a way to contact him after an Unforgettable NYE. Tate didn't stop thinking about the beautiful woman that gave him an unforgettable NYE but never expected to stumble upon her again very pregnant. It didn't take much for him to do the math. But once it was confirmed, this man was all in, as he always wanted to be a dad but had just not found his person...until now. I loved how he took care of her, despite her pushback since it took her a minute to get out of her own way.
Also enjoyed the Holiday Post so was thrilled to see this was connected! Definitely check this out 🎧
🍂reunited one-night stand 🧡pregnancy 🍂second chance 🧡opposites attract 🍂small town 🧡love over 40 🍂she-grump x sunshine 🧡she-blue collar x businessman
🍂❤️ He Wanted a Family, She Was Afraid to Let Him In ❤️🍂 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars | 🌶️🌶️ 2 Chili Peppers
I adore L.B. Dunbar, so of course I couldn't wait to get my hands on Fall Love. And this book was exactly the kind of cozy, emotional, spicy fall romance I was hoping for. Give me a small coastal Maine town, pumpkins everywhere, family drama, an accidental pregnancy, a prickly heroine, and a hero who is completely down bad from the moment he realizes what he wants, and I am VERY happy. 😂🍂
Neve Snowe has her life exactly the way she wants it. She has her little beach cottage, her family, and the auto repair shop she inherited a piece of from her father. She doesn't need a relationship, and she's certainly not interested in settling down. Her solution is simple: only sleep with men who are passing through town. They leave, she stays, and nobody gets hurt.
Except one New Year's Eve fling leaves her pregnant, and because she and her mystery man never exchanged real names or phone numbers, Neve has no way to tell him.
Nine months later, Tate Love walks back into Lovewell Landing as the real estate broker handling the potential sale of Neve's family's shop.
And surprise! He's the mystery man.
I absolutely LOVED Tate. This man was so completely smitten with Neve, and watching him discover that he's going to be a father only makes him more determined to be part of her life and their baby's life. Tate has wanted a family and a wife for a long time, so finding out that the woman he hasn't been able to stop thinking about is carrying his baby is basically the answer to a dream he didn't realize was about to come true.
And yet Neve is not exactly making it easy for him. 😂
She has that fantastic black-cat attitude, and she is understandably skeptical about Tate's intentions. She doesn't want him swooping into her life and changing everything she's worked so hard to protect, especially when the very business deal he's there to broker could mean losing the shop that represents so much of her father's legacy. She has plenty of reasons to be guarded, and I really appreciated that the story allowed her feelings to exist instead of rushing her into accepting everything just because Tate was ready.
Meanwhile, Tate is over here basically saying, "Okay, but what if I just love you anyway?" 😂❤️
I loved the way he showed Neve he was serious through both the big gestures and the little everyday things. He was considerate of her, patient with her, and constantly trying to make her feel wanted rather than simply fulfilling his responsibilities as a father. The pumpkin-flavored-food moments were especially adorable because Neve loves all things pumpkin and Tate absolutely does not, but that man was still willing to eat it with her because he knew she enjoyed it. Those little acts of thoughtfulness told me so much about him.
And I really appreciated that Tate wasn't portrayed as perfect. He kept a few things from Neve and didn't always communicate as well as he should have, but his intentions were never about manipulating her or hurting her. He genuinely wanted to build a life with her, and watching him learn how to navigate Neve's fears while figuring out how to become the partner and father he'd always wanted made his character feel much more real.
Their banter was another huge win for me. Neve and Tate poke at each other constantly, but there's never a malicious edge to it. Their personalities bounce off each other so well, and their physical chemistry was just as strong as their emotional connection. 🔥 Their relationship has plenty of spice, but I loved that the tenderness underneath it was just as important.
And can we PLEASE talk about the fact that these characters are in their 30s and approaching 40?! MORE OF THIS. 🙌 I love romance heroes and heroines who have lived a little, have established lives, and come into a relationship with actual fears, responsibilities, and experiences behind them. Neve isn't trying to figure out who she is, and Tate isn't either. They're figuring out whether they can make room for each other without either person losing the life they've built.
That emotional piece really worked for me. Neve's attachment to the shop isn't simply stubbornness. It's tied to her father, her family, her memories, and the life she has created in Lovewell Landing. Tate understands that, even when he can't immediately fix the situation. Watching Neve slowly realize that letting Tate into her life doesn't mean giving up everything she loves was one of my favorite parts of their journey.
And then there is LOVewell Landing itself. 🍂🎃 I absolutely adored the fall atmosphere in this book. Pumpkins, baking, apple picking, family antics, small-town traditions, quirky characters, and all those cozy autumn details made me want to pack a bag and move straight into this fictional Maine town. I genuinely wish Lovewell Landing were real because I would absolutely visit.
I also loved the sisterly dynamic and the feeling of this unexpected little family coming together. There are plenty of emotional moments, difficult conversations, mistakes, sweetness, humor, and of course some spice, but everything felt purposeful. The pacing was fantastic for me. Nothing felt like filler, and the story moved smoothly from one moment to the next while still giving the characters room to actually process what was happening.
I listened to this one on audio, and Erin Mallon and Ryan West were fantastic together. They fully embodied Neve and Tate, and I especially loved the way Ryan West captured Tate's yearning for the family he's always wanted. Erin Mallon brought Neve's skepticism, vulnerability, and grief over losing her father to life in a way that made her emotions really easy to connect with. Their performances played off each other beautifully.
I am so sad that Neve and Tate's story is over, but I'm also excited because this is just the beginning of Lovewell Landing. If Fall Love is any indication of what is coming next, I am absolutely ready for more of this town and these families. ❤️
Fall Love was warm, funny, spicy, emotional, and ridiculously adorable. Tate wanted somewhere to belong, while Neve already had a place she loved and was terrified of letting someone change it. Watching them figure out how to build something that belonged to both of them was exactly the kind of romance I love.
If you want a cozy fall small-town romance with an accidental pregnancy, a black-cat heroine, a seriously green-flag hero who falls first, great banter, fantastic chemistry, and ALL the autumn vibes, add this one to your list. 🍂❤️
Thank you to L. B. Dunbar and The Author Agency for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Neve never expected her one night stand and baby daddy to come waltzing into her shop with intent to buy it out from under her. Now she has to decide if she wants to let Tate into not just her and their soon to come baby's life, but her own heart too. She's not usually one for commitment of any kind, but when Tate seems to have the opposite view of everything, her walls start slowly lowering. Perhaps this time, he'll stick around, and she'll let him.
Just in time for the season (even though it's in the freaking 90s here), Neve's grumpy commitment-phobe and Tate's sunshiney forever in mind gave me major fall love vibes. The way he sneaks past her defenses in the sweetest, rock steady of ways made me smile so hard. I can see the pumpkin spice in everything now thanks to Neve's love of it, even though I personally can't stand it, and am so glad Tate is the one to give her all pumpkin spice she wants forever. I love this adorable couple - Lovewell Landing has me so excited for more!
ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.
4.25⭐️ 1.5🌶️ ARC Review ✨ 📖 FALL LOVE 📖 by L.B. Dunbar✨ This is book 2 in the Lovewell Landing series, a heartwarming story set in a small coastal town and revolves around the four Snowe sisters. Neve Snowe and Tate Love have a ONS on NYE and she winds up pregnant but she doesn’t have a way of contacting him. Tate, a real estate broker, shows up in her hometown of Lovewell, Maine, 9 months later to broker the sale of her late father’s auto shop. When Tate finds out she’s pregnant he’s all in with her and the baby. He is down bad for Neve - all he’s ever wanted was to be a husband and father. She’s skeptical of his intentions because the auto shop means a lot to her, and she’s always preferred flings to relationships. The way he reassured her, their banter and chemistry, the whole book is adorable. The Fall setting, a cozy beach cottage, small town antics, and baking—just delightful. Good pacing, and I love that the characters are in their late 30s/early 40s.
He pays attention—remembers she likes pumpkin spice creamer and brings her pumpkin donuts. He’s so eager to be part of her life, his baby’s life. And who knew pie-making could be sexy? 🥵 She’s so independent and he knows she can do things by herself but he wants to take care of her. He sees her, cherishes her, and makes her feel special. The way he worships her pregnant body, AND her post-baby body? Swoon city. When he holds her and tells her ‘it’s ok to not be ok’? 🫠 He refers to her and the baby as ‘my girls’. 💕 And the first time he calls her ‘baby’? I’m done. She thought she was difficult and unlovable, and doesn’t get close to anyone because people leave but Tate proves he’s not going anywhere. His grand gesture at the end was so sweet and thoughtful. 🥹🫠❤️ There’s some yearning—they truly are the halves to make each other whole. I LOVED the ending - seeing them become a family. 🥹 Plus I loved the strong bond between the sisters. Highly recommend!
❤️ Seeing him in a flannel shirt really does it for her ❤️ He helps her bake an apple 🍏 pie 🥧 ❤️ He puts his hand on the small of her back ❤️ He kisses the top of her head ❤️ Forehead kisses 💋 ❤️ Gray sweatpants
Favorite quotes: “I missed out on supporting you. I'll be here now. I'll be there when you have her. You have nothing to be afraid of." That's what I'm most afraid of. He'll stay. I'll grow attached. She'll grow attached. And then something will happen, and we'll lose him.
And I want to be her person. The one she leans on when she can't get out of a car. The hand she reaches for, not just the one she holds.
I'm going to beg him to do something to me he probably has no interest in doing with a pregnant woman. Even if I am the mother of his future child. Because I want my baby daddy to f-ck me.
"Guess I'm just a woman wanting a man to love me, yet knowing no one ever would, because of my imperfections." "Neve."
"I just don't know what you see in me. Now. With me like this. I don't know what you think of my body anymore." "I look at you, and I want you. All of you. Every curve. Every inch."
"You're having our baby, Neve.” “Yes, I am.” "Thank you," he says. His gratitude nearly breaks my heart.
His body lined up behind me, holding me tight against him, brings further confirmation that I don't need to be okay, and Tate will still be here. My emotions are not imperfections. He accepts me as I am.
I love him. The thought arrives fully formed, but I don't accept it immediately. I almost reject it on instinct because that's what I do. That's what I've always done. Love isn't something I've trusted. Love is something that changes shape as time passes, something that disappears.
"Look at me, baby. I love you.” "I love you."
"But I realize my question wasn't about a soulmate to just anyone. It was you. You make me whole. You and I were meant to be. We were meant to be." The three of us.
What to expect: *Small town romance *ONS *Accidental pregnancy🤰🏻 *Enemies to lovers *Real estate broker MMC *Black cat FMC *Characters in their late 30s/40s *Fall setting *Small town shenanigans *Big family dynamics
Content warning: grief, death of a parent
Thank you to L.B. and Literally Yours PR for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Fall Love is the first book in author L. B. Dunbar’s new Lovewell Landing series. It’s a perfect standalone and a great start to a new series, but it you want some back story check out Dunbar’s The Holiday Post where we first meet Neve Snow and her sisters.
Neve doesn’t need much; she needs to keep the garage that’s been in her family for years, where she learned everything cars from her dad, and she needs people to stop telling her to find a “good man” and settle down. Life is good. Or it was until a New Year’s Eve costume party one-night fling with a hot-as-sin racecar driver left her with a little surprise. She felt a real connection but they never exchanged names or numbers. Neve loves her little Maine coastal town and she’s used to being alone. She and her little surprise will be just fine.
Except right now she doesn’t feel just fine. The garage has been losing money for years and her sisters want to cut their losses and sell. Their father made some poor financial decisions that have caught up with them. They have a solid offer from a large corporation that they believe will upgrade and remodel the garage; Neve hopes she can work there in the future. But losing her father’s legacy is hard on her. She is dragging her feet and dragging her feet and dragging her feet, but time is running out; her due date isn’t that far off and neither is the final decision day about the garage. Neve is determined but determination alone might not be enough.
And things go from bad to worse when a stranger shows up at the garage looking for Neve’s sister Lumi, who has been handling the details of the sale. Imagine her stunned, shocked surprise when Mr. Hot-Hunky-Handsome-in-a-Suit is “Driver.” Yep, that Driver from New Year’s Eve. Stunned doesn’t cover it. Now she’s stunned, shocked and speechless – and not happy to be face to face with the man she never stopped thinking about who is also the man stealing her last dream. He does have another name: Tatum Love, Tate, Hessfield Holdings, real estate acquisitions. And Love, as in LOVEwell Landing. Great. Just great.
It’s so awkward. Instead of offering any explanation Neve is her usual stubborn self, and Tate doesn’t voice all the questions rattling around in his head, because he never stopped thinking about her, either. Is she married? Was she married that night? How far along is she? It doesn’t occur to him (at least not then) that this could be his baby – their baby – but he feels strangely protective of her. And shows it in a bossy way that is hilarious to us but not so funny to independent I-can-do-it-myself Neve.
Neve has wonderful family memories she wants to preserve forever; Tate not so much. His family isn’t as warm and welcoming and there’s some scandal that nearly broke him. He’s wanted to be a husband and father for a long time, but how’s that going to work out. Turns out he’s every bit as stubborn as she is. Their first meeting and many of the subsequent encounters will make you laugh, and also make want to jump into the story to make them Talk Things Out! But what would be the fun in that? Taking the journey with them is so much better. The attraction is strong but so are the fears and the misunderstandings, the hope and yearning and the plain logistics of their situation.
Fall Love is funny, sweet, spicy. Steamy, romantic, surprising. The plot and writing are strong and draw you in instantly. Joining Neve and Tate on this adventure is riveting, but even better is having talented voice actors Erin Mallon and Ryan West tell you their story. Perfect pace, tone and all the emotions.
I received advance reading and listening copies of Fall Love from the author as part of her review team. I love reading any and all books by Dunbar. Not only do you get an exciting, heartwarming romance with humor, spice and all the feels, but you also get all those little ties to other books she has written. Standalone works just fine but recognizing other characters and other places and having those Aha! moments is joyful and fulfilling. I loved this book and recommend it without hesitation and cannot wait for the next book in this series. Check it out and catch up on this fantastic author’s backlist. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
I have to start this with the fact that I adored this story was centered around main characters who are older, in their 30s-40s.
Neve (pronounced like Eve with an N) Snowe doesn't need or want to settle down. She's found her place in the small harbor town of Lovewell, with a small cottage and part ownership in the family's auto repair shop where she is the head mechanic. She's more of a hit 'em and quit 'em type of woman. She doesn't expect guys to stay, less expectations makes it easier on her heart.
Tate Love strolls into town after spending his summers in Lovewell when he was younger, never running into Neve until one fateful New Year's Eve. He never thought he'd see her again either... so a chance meeting turned into a dare to jump into the icy ocean on New Year's Eve turned into a one-night stand.
Surprise! A baby. But as planned, Neve never expected to see him again, nor did she know his name because they were dressed up in costumes at the party. Until... he reappears. And now, she has a decision to make.
I love a good black cat vibe and Neve lived up to every expectation of that. She was set in her ways, she was going about life at her own pace and that was fine. I truly felt that she was never going to fall in love with anyone and she expected people to essentially disappoint her on a regular basis. Except, Tate is a total sweetheart and once he learns that the baby is his... he's determined to be a part of both of their lives. He wanted to take care of her. He wanted to take care of the baby. We're often told of stories when the father runs for the hills (not really in romance stories but in RL) and this was just refreshing to know how much he desired to be a dad.
The fall vibes lived throughout every inch of this story. The life of a small town in Maine was centered around fall and it was adorable. Neve loved anything pumpkin flavored and once Tate found that information out, he was on top of it. He was determined to find anything he could that she had not tried before.
He was drawn to her before and drawn more to her in pregnancy. He loved every version of her and it was so sweet. Something we always worry about as women is will he still love us when our body totally changes. And words don't always help fix that... we're driven by gestures, words, looks... vibes. We want to be loved, no matter what happens to our body.
I felt loved so I know Neve was.
I'm so excited for more from Lovewell Landing. Neve and Tate were the perfect couple to kick off this series.
As for the audiobook, it was absolutely precious. Between Erin Mallon and Ryan West, we felt every inch of the story through their storytelling. They embodied the characters and lived up to my expectations. The yearning that Ryan took us through was beyond the spicy side -- we FELT the desire to have a family and be with someone he loved. And Erin? You know I adore you and the ability to channel the black cat vibes is literally the best. However, when that tough, black cat exterior starts to break, the emotional depth is insanity. I felt the love, sadness, happiness and the full found family vibe.
Thank you to L.B. Dunbar and Literally Yours PR for this ALC opportunity. As I mentioned, I'm ready for more from Lovewell Landing!
TL:DR ⭐️ 4.5/5 🖤 Black cat x golden retriever ❤️🔥 One night stand 🤰 Accidental pregnancy 🏠 Small town romance 🍂 Fall scenery 🫂 Found family (she knew where she belonged; he was looking for his perfect spot) 👩🔧 She's a mechanic (lady boss!!) 🎢 Emotional rollercoasters 🥰 Grand gestures are his love language 🤫 They both hid secrets from each other 💬 Snarky banter 🎧 Audiobook 10/10 🌶️ 2/5
🍂❤️ Fall Love absolutely got me!! I expected a cute, spicy small-town accidental pregnancy romance and instead I was sitting there completely emotional over these two and everything they didn’t even realise they were looking for.
Neve had me from the beginning. She has her life exactly how she wants it. Her little beach cottage, her family, the auto repair shop, her hometown. She doesn’t need a relationship and she definitely doesn’t need some flatlander coming in and messing everything up. 😂 Her rule is simple: only sleep with men who are LEAVING.
Except apparently Tate left her with a tiny little permanent souvenir. 😭😂
And TATE!!! This man comes back to Lovewell Landing nine months later and discovers that one night with Neve gave him the one thing he’s always wanted. A FAMILY. My heart couldn’t handle him. 🥹
I loved that these two wanted completely opposite things at first. Neve is settled but doesn’t want to settle down, while Tate has been longing for exactly that kind of life. Then suddenly they’re thrown together because they’re having a BABY and all those feelings from their one night together are very much still there.
But then there’s the business deal!!! 😭 Because of course Tate can’t just come back, fall hopelessly for Neve and live happily ever after. Nope. He also happens to be holding the pen that could threaten everything she loves about her home and community. THE ANGST.
I loved watching Tate fall into this life that he hadn’t realised was waiting for him. Watching him with Neve absolutely melted me because this wasn’t just an unexpected responsibility he was accepting. He genuinely wanted to be there. He wanted HER. He wanted their baby. He wanted the family and roots that Neve was terrified would change the life she’d worked so hard to build.
And Neve 😭❤️ Watching her slowly realise that Tate wasn’t just another flatlander passing through was EVERYTHING.
The autumn vibes were perfection too. 🍂 Pumpkins everywhere, quirky little Lovewell Landing, family chaos, small-town gossip and this unexpected little family forming right in the middle of it all. GIVE IT TO ME.
And can we talk about them hooking up near a supposedly magical well and then ending up pregnant?! 😂 That well really said you two aren’t getting away that easily.
The chemistry, banter, accidental pregnancy, opposites-attract energy, family moments and all the emotion underneath the rom-com sweetness had me completely hooked.
But mostly I just freaking LOVED TATE AND NEVE.
He wanted somewhere to belong.
She already belonged somewhere and was terrified he’d change it.
Then somehow they started building something that belonged to BOTH of them. 😭🍂❤️
FIVE HUGE STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sweet, spicy, funny, cozy and emotional in all the right places. Fall Love gave me everything I wanted from an autumn small-town romance and I did NOT want to leave Lovewell Landing.
Tate + Neve + their unexpected little family = MY HEART. 😭🤠🍂❤️
What makes this book so captivating is the wonderful familiarity of the characters, the cozy setting, and the author’s signature light, fun, and adorable storytelling. This familiarity starts when we first meet Neve Snowe in L.B. Dunbar’s 2025 book The Holiday Post, where the FMC, Lumi, is Neve’s sister.
The sisters share equal ownership of their late father’s automotive repair shop, Rusty’s Wrecks, along with their other two sisters, Isolde and Icelyn. While Neve is the FMC here, all three of her sisters blend into the background beautifully to offer sisterly advice, light-hearted teasing, and pregnancy support.
Although Neve is a mechanic, her sisters are not. With only a month to go before her due date, Neve is finding it difficult to manage the basics of servicing cars. Faced with the mounting costs of parts and labour, she is outnumbered by her sisters, who decide to put the business up for sale.
Neve has a deep sentimental attachment to Rusty's Wrecks because it's where she learned her skills while helping her father as a teenager. This causes tension with the sudden arrival of Tatum "Tate" Love, the real estate broker handling the sale of the garage and whom Neve hasn't seen since a New Year's Eve costume party nine months earlier. Their reunion is frosty at first, but the friction soon gives way to their scorching, reignited chemistry. I found it fitting that Neve ran hot and cold with Tate; she tried to protect the auto shop, but resisting her attraction to him became impossible. This reverse grumpy-sunshine trope completely enthralled me.
I appreciated that Neve and Tate are mature protagonists, aged forty and forty-two, which allows for deeper and more meaningful conversations. They thoughtfully discuss family, reflect on the direction their lives have taken, and share ideas with the secret hope of building a future together with the baby.
Near the end of the book, I found myself frustrated by the main characters' lack of communication. I was annoyed that Neve overlooks the love Tate consistently demonstrates through his actions, such as caring for her and her unborn baby, simply because she wants verbal confirmation. Meanwhile, Tate's cowardice in hiding the truth infuriated me, as you just know pain will be felt.
The outstanding narration by Erin Mallon and Ryan West completely elevated this audiobook. Erin is always a joy to listen to because her emotional depth and pacing allow her to absolutely embody Neve, while her signature rasp is perfect for voicing the male characters. Ryan also delivered a surprisingly fresh performance as Tate. He masterfully shifts his tone, bringing a heartfelt warmth to Tate's protective moments and a fun, playful energy that perfectly captures the couple's teasing banter.
Ultimately, it was a cute and quirky romance. I loved revisiting Neve and her sisters, meeting new characters like Tate, and experiencing the vibrant community of Lovewell Landing. I can’t wait for more!