What do you think?
Rate this book
When the Walls Come Down
When the walls come down, there's just love.
Shane Warren was the most charming, gorgeous, and witty guy I'd ever met. So imagine my surprise when my one-night stand turned out to be my neighbor and the man I'd been hired to replace. It was hard to feel neighborly or professional while sneaking out of his bedroom in the morning, but that didn't stop me from coming back for more.
I wasn't looking for a relationship, but Shane made it hard to resist.
Why did his teasing shoulder kisses sweep me off my feet?
Why did every small gesture he made have such a major impact on my heart?
And most of all, why did he hold me like he never wanted to let go?
When it came to losing his career, Shane wasn't going down without a fight.
But neither was I--even if I was falling in love with him.
Bottom line: If I wanted my dream job, it meant stealing it from the man of my dreams--and ultimately risking losing them both.
Shane Warren was the most charming, gorgeous, and witty guy I'd ever met. So imagine my surprise when my one-night stand turned out to be my neighbor and the man I'd been hired to replace. It was hard to feel neighborly or professional while sneaking out of his bedroom in the morning, but that didn't stop me from coming back for more.
I wasn't looking for a relationship, but Shane made it hard to resist.
Why did his teasing shoulder kisses sweep me off my feet?
Why did every small gesture he made have such a major impact on my heart?
And most of all, why did he hold me like he never wanted to let go?
When it came to losing his career, Shane wasn't going down without a fight.
But neither was I--even if I was falling in love with him.
Bottom line: If I wanted my dream job, it meant stealing it from the man of my dreams--and ultimately risking losing them both.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2020
487 people are currently reading
1744 people want to read
About the author
M. Mabie
24 books1,597 followersM. Mabie lives in Illinois with her husband. She writes unconventional love stories and tries to embody "real-life romance."
She cares about politics, but will not discuss them in public. She uses the same fork at every meal, watches Wayne's World while cleaning, and lets her dog sleep on her head. She has always been a writer. In fact, she was born with a pen in her hand, which almost never happens. Almost.
M. Mabie usually doesn't speak in third-person. She promises.
Signup for my mailing list: http://www.mmabie.com/subscribe
Follow me on BOOKBUB:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/m-mabie
Like me on Facebook:
http://www.Facebook.com/AuthorMMabie
Follow me on Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/AuthorMMabie
Follow my Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/M.-Mabie/e/B00J...
She cares about politics, but will not discuss them in public. She uses the same fork at every meal, watches Wayne's World while cleaning, and lets her dog sleep on her head. She has always been a writer. In fact, she was born with a pen in her hand, which almost never happens. Almost.
M. Mabie usually doesn't speak in third-person. She promises.
Signup for my mailing list: http://www.mmabie.com/subscribe
Follow me on BOOKBUB:
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/m-mabie
Like me on Facebook:
http://www.Facebook.com/AuthorMMabie
Follow me on Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/AuthorMMabie
Follow my Amazon Author Page:
http://www.amazon.com/M.-Mabie/e/B00J...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 363 reviews
June 3, 2020
4 stars
When the Walls Come Down was a great, easy to read romance. When I think of Aly Martinez books, I always think of heavy reads, emotional and/or suspenseful plots. This was different from what she normally writes, much lighter, and I enjoyed reading it so much!
When I read the blurb for this one, I knew I had to read it asap. Maggie and Shane meet on the first day Maggie moves across the country for a new job. It's also the same day Shane finds out he might be losing his job. They have this instant connection/attraction and go on the perfect date the next day. All is well until they see each other Monday. At work. It appears that Maggie is who was hired to take Shane's job. But Shane isn't going down without a fight...
I adored both Shane and Maggie so much. They had the best banter and chemistry you could feel. This was co-written by Martinez and M. Mabie and they did a fantastic job writing together. It was seamless and had a great flow for having two authors. I loved that it made me laugh out loud a few times, but also made me feel at the right moments.
If you're looking for a feel good romance that is steamy, sweet, and a lot of fun, with just the right amount of emotion, pick up When the Walls Come Down!
When the Walls Come Down was a great, easy to read romance. When I think of Aly Martinez books, I always think of heavy reads, emotional and/or suspenseful plots. This was different from what she normally writes, much lighter, and I enjoyed reading it so much!
When I read the blurb for this one, I knew I had to read it asap. Maggie and Shane meet on the first day Maggie moves across the country for a new job. It's also the same day Shane finds out he might be losing his job. They have this instant connection/attraction and go on the perfect date the next day. All is well until they see each other Monday. At work. It appears that Maggie is who was hired to take Shane's job. But Shane isn't going down without a fight...
I adored both Shane and Maggie so much. They had the best banter and chemistry you could feel. This was co-written by Martinez and M. Mabie and they did a fantastic job writing together. It was seamless and had a great flow for having two authors. I loved that it made me laugh out loud a few times, but also made me feel at the right moments.
If you're looking for a feel good romance that is steamy, sweet, and a lot of fun, with just the right amount of emotion, pick up When the Walls Come Down!
When the walls come down, there’s just love.
June 22, 2020
DNF
I give up. I am a big fan of Miss Martinez. She is my go to author everytime I want something with crazy twisted plot.
Unfortunately in When the Walls Come Down, nothing work for me. I was anticipating an enemies to lover story. But I do not feel any of the tension or chemistry spark between the characters.
I listened until about 6th hour then I give up. Moving on...
2 stars
I give up. I am a big fan of Miss Martinez. She is my go to author everytime I want something with crazy twisted plot.
Unfortunately in When the Walls Come Down, nothing work for me. I was anticipating an enemies to lover story. But I do not feel any of the tension or chemistry spark between the characters.
I listened until about 6th hour then I give up. Moving on...
2 stars
June 6, 2020
I loved every word in this book, his point of view was the best!
This book worth the reading!!!!!
This book worth the reading!!!!!
May 29, 2020
4.5 Peach and Banter Stars
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
I have to say, this was a delight just for our times. It had all of the elements:
Cute Meet-Check
Smart, quick-witted main characters- Check Check
A Variety of Hot Steamy Times - Check Check Check
Work Conflicts and Needing to Figure It Out- Bingo
So this tale had it all and was written by two authors who had all the necessary tools to make it happen.
Humor, wit, heart, and the understanding of how to pace and plot in a way to keep the reader interested, focused, and wanting to keep turning the page.
I wanted to turn the page until the very end. You will, too.
~~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
I am so Lucky having all of these incredible reads!
❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️
When Two Strong, Smart, Bright Authors...
Decide To Come Together...
We, the Readers, Rejoice...
Aly Martinez and M. Mabie Decided...
To Do Just That...
Per The Newsletter...
Their Mojos are Movin'...
Groovin' and Bantering Away...
This Tale Has Exactly What You Want...
It Has the Swoon...
It Has Love...
So That's Good Enough for Me...
I Will Be Waiting...
For The Next Bit of Information...
When the Walls Come Down-June 4, 2020
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free
I have to say, this was a delight just for our times. It had all of the elements:
Cute Meet-Check
Smart, quick-witted main characters- Check Check
A Variety of Hot Steamy Times - Check Check Check
Work Conflicts and Needing to Figure It Out- Bingo
So this tale had it all and was written by two authors who had all the necessary tools to make it happen.
Humor, wit, heart, and the understanding of how to pace and plot in a way to keep the reader interested, focused, and wanting to keep turning the page.
I wanted to turn the page until the very end. You will, too.
~~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
I am so Lucky having all of these incredible reads!
❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️
When Two Strong, Smart, Bright Authors...
Decide To Come Together...
We, the Readers, Rejoice...
Aly Martinez and M. Mabie Decided...
To Do Just That...
Per The Newsletter...
Their Mojos are Movin'...
Groovin' and Bantering Away...
This Tale Has Exactly What You Want...
It Has the Swoon...
It Has Love...
So That's Good Enough for Me...
I Will Be Waiting...
For The Next Bit of Information...
When the Walls Come Down-June 4, 2020
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
June 5, 2020
4 stars
This is the first co-write between Aly Martinez and M. Mabie and I loved it!It was lighthearted and sexy!I want to read more books from this duo!
"You're being weird."
"I'm always weird. Haven't we met?"
Maggie and Shane had me at their first kinda awkward and cute meet.I loved them and adored them! I could not stop smiling and swooning!They were good together!
"This whole thing with Maggie felt more like luck. Or serendipity. Or some other word people used when stars aligned and things just seemed meant to be."
This is the first co-write between Aly Martinez and M. Mabie and I loved it!It was lighthearted and sexy!I want to read more books from this duo!
"You're being weird."
"I'm always weird. Haven't we met?"
Maggie and Shane had me at their first kinda awkward and cute meet.I loved them and adored them! I could not stop smiling and swooning!They were good together!
"This whole thing with Maggie felt more like luck. Or serendipity. Or some other word people used when stars aligned and things just seemed meant to be."
June 18, 2021
Recensione in Anteprima sulla mia pagina Bookstagram
https://www.instagram.com/p/CQQ5hpQnK...
⭐⭐⭐⭐, 5
Maggie era un direttore creativo giovane ed in gamba, aveva da poco ricevuto un’allettante offerta di lavoro dalla Bay Brewing che prevedeva un ottimo compenso e diversi benefits, ma avrebbe dovuto trasferirsi in un'altra città. Lasciare la sua famiglia le dispiaceva, ma anni addietro aveva giurato a sé stessa che sarebbe andata via da Atlanta non appena finito il college.
Dunque quell’offerta era arrivata al momento giusto.
Giunta a destinazione la prima persona che conobbe la sera in cui si recó al Two Ships fu Shane, un uomo più grande di lei, un tipo un pó riservato ma gradevole con cui conversare.
Quell’uomo aveva invaso il suo spazio in modo bizzarro sistemandosi sullo sgabello accanto al suo, e lo aveva fatto in modo naturale e senza malizia. Ed erano stati senza dubbio i quindici minuti più divertenti dei suoi ultimi mesi, compreso il periodo prima di partire per la California.
Si sentiva attratta da lui che non smetteva di fare battute divertenti e con quella sottile ironia che a lei piaceva tanto. Si capiva che era una persona per bene, rispettosa ed educata.
Seguire il consiglio di Melanie sul portarsi a letto qualcuno diventó all’improvviso una prospettiva allettante, ma poi lui le aveva chiesto un appuntamento e l’idea di una cena, un paio di drink, due chiacchiere e qualche risata in sua compagnia, sembravano ancora meglio.
Per qualche strano motivo a Shane l’incontro con Maggie era apparso fin da subito qualcosa di più di un semplice colpo di fortuna:
«O serendipità. O qualunque parola la gente usasse quando le stelle si allineavano e le cose sembravano destinate ad accadere».
L’appuntamento che le aveva chiesto significava molto per lui, poteva rappresentare quel famoso nuovo inizio di cui tutti parlavano e del quale non si era reso conto di aver bisogno.
Avevano preso a frequentarsi, una conoscenza piacevole la loro, fatta di belle chiacchierate e passeggiate in giro per la città, nulla di eclatante ma stavano bene insieme.
Finché scoprirono nel medesimo istante che Maggie avrebbe preso il posto lavorativo di Shane. Era quello l’incarico per il quale si era trasferita, un lavoro che già adorava.
La domanda che si poneva adesso era: ci avrebbe rinunciato per lui?
Shane d’altro canto non voleva andarsene, amava quel posto e avrebbe fatto tutto il possibile per tenerselo stretto. Era stato il motore, a suo tempo, che gli aveva permesso di venir fuori da un momento traumatico e uscire dallo stato di abbandono in cui versava da quando la sua vita era andata a rotoli.
E poi odiava i cambiamenti:
«Ero una creatura abitudinaria: dormire, palestra, lavoro, bistecca. Un paio di birre alla sera. Magari un po’ di musica, un podcast o un libro, e poi ero pronto a ripetere lo stesso copione il giorno dopo».
L’arrivo di Maggie aveva cambiato tutto.
Innamorarsene non era contemplato essendo la sua rivale, ma come avrebbe potuto contenere quel sentimento di gioia e felicità pura che lo avvinceva quando stava insieme a lei?
🖋️Un romanzo davvero molto bello e ben scritto, coinvolgente e ricco di emozioni. Non ci sono grandi accadimenti né colpi di scena perché il fulcro centrale del libro è un potente colpo di fulmine che farà crollare i muri che i protagonisti avevano eretto a mó di protezione del proprio cuore.
E assisteremo alla nascita di una storia d’amore, dolce e romantica.
Maggie nonostante sia ancora molto giovane dà prova di grande determinazione e coraggio, non tirandosi mai indietro ma portando avanti sfide e progetti.
Shane invece è più schivo e riservato ma ammette le proprie fragilità con candore e sincerità.
🖋️I protagonisti si trovano ad affrontare una situazione difficile da gestire perché non hanno intenzione di lasciarsi sfuggire la vita che entrambi desiderano ognuno per sé, ma riuscire a non far soffrire l’altro con la propria decisione lavorativa sarà pressoché impossibile.
*Ringrazio la CE per la copia ARC *
https://www.instagram.com/p/CQQ5hpQnK...
⭐⭐⭐⭐, 5
Maggie era un direttore creativo giovane ed in gamba, aveva da poco ricevuto un’allettante offerta di lavoro dalla Bay Brewing che prevedeva un ottimo compenso e diversi benefits, ma avrebbe dovuto trasferirsi in un'altra città. Lasciare la sua famiglia le dispiaceva, ma anni addietro aveva giurato a sé stessa che sarebbe andata via da Atlanta non appena finito il college.
Dunque quell’offerta era arrivata al momento giusto.
Giunta a destinazione la prima persona che conobbe la sera in cui si recó al Two Ships fu Shane, un uomo più grande di lei, un tipo un pó riservato ma gradevole con cui conversare.
Quell’uomo aveva invaso il suo spazio in modo bizzarro sistemandosi sullo sgabello accanto al suo, e lo aveva fatto in modo naturale e senza malizia. Ed erano stati senza dubbio i quindici minuti più divertenti dei suoi ultimi mesi, compreso il periodo prima di partire per la California.
Si sentiva attratta da lui che non smetteva di fare battute divertenti e con quella sottile ironia che a lei piaceva tanto. Si capiva che era una persona per bene, rispettosa ed educata.
Seguire il consiglio di Melanie sul portarsi a letto qualcuno diventó all’improvviso una prospettiva allettante, ma poi lui le aveva chiesto un appuntamento e l’idea di una cena, un paio di drink, due chiacchiere e qualche risata in sua compagnia, sembravano ancora meglio.
Per qualche strano motivo a Shane l’incontro con Maggie era apparso fin da subito qualcosa di più di un semplice colpo di fortuna:
«O serendipità. O qualunque parola la gente usasse quando le stelle si allineavano e le cose sembravano destinate ad accadere».
L’appuntamento che le aveva chiesto significava molto per lui, poteva rappresentare quel famoso nuovo inizio di cui tutti parlavano e del quale non si era reso conto di aver bisogno.
Avevano preso a frequentarsi, una conoscenza piacevole la loro, fatta di belle chiacchierate e passeggiate in giro per la città, nulla di eclatante ma stavano bene insieme.
Finché scoprirono nel medesimo istante che Maggie avrebbe preso il posto lavorativo di Shane. Era quello l’incarico per il quale si era trasferita, un lavoro che già adorava.
La domanda che si poneva adesso era: ci avrebbe rinunciato per lui?
Shane d’altro canto non voleva andarsene, amava quel posto e avrebbe fatto tutto il possibile per tenerselo stretto. Era stato il motore, a suo tempo, che gli aveva permesso di venir fuori da un momento traumatico e uscire dallo stato di abbandono in cui versava da quando la sua vita era andata a rotoli.
E poi odiava i cambiamenti:
«Ero una creatura abitudinaria: dormire, palestra, lavoro, bistecca. Un paio di birre alla sera. Magari un po’ di musica, un podcast o un libro, e poi ero pronto a ripetere lo stesso copione il giorno dopo».
L’arrivo di Maggie aveva cambiato tutto.
Innamorarsene non era contemplato essendo la sua rivale, ma come avrebbe potuto contenere quel sentimento di gioia e felicità pura che lo avvinceva quando stava insieme a lei?
🖋️Un romanzo davvero molto bello e ben scritto, coinvolgente e ricco di emozioni. Non ci sono grandi accadimenti né colpi di scena perché il fulcro centrale del libro è un potente colpo di fulmine che farà crollare i muri che i protagonisti avevano eretto a mó di protezione del proprio cuore.
E assisteremo alla nascita di una storia d’amore, dolce e romantica.
Maggie nonostante sia ancora molto giovane dà prova di grande determinazione e coraggio, non tirandosi mai indietro ma portando avanti sfide e progetti.
Shane invece è più schivo e riservato ma ammette le proprie fragilità con candore e sincerità.
🖋️I protagonisti si trovano ad affrontare una situazione difficile da gestire perché non hanno intenzione di lasciarsi sfuggire la vita che entrambi desiderano ognuno per sé, ma riuscire a non far soffrire l’altro con la propria decisione lavorativa sarà pressoché impossibile.
*Ringrazio la CE per la copia ARC *
May 27, 2020
A genius collaboration! All the stars for this quick-witted, sexy, and endearing cast of characters. Aly and M. Mabie delivered rom-com perfection!
July 24, 2020
When two incredible authors collaborate to write together you know it’s gonna be good and this story definitely served up a delicious piece of romance.
When Maggie gets the job of her dreams she puts on her big girl pants and moves away from her family and friends to begin her new life. Family means everything to her, especially after losing her parents when she was young. Her oldest brother Heath has been her most significant person since then and he is fiercely protective of Maggie but proud that she is taking this huge step.
‘So yeah, it was terrifying moving to a new city, twenty-five hundred miles away from the only home I’d ever known, but to me, regrets were far heavier than fear.’
Maggie wants to start as she means to go on so instead of staying home her first night she puts on her glad rags and hits the nearest bar. This is where she meets Shane. At first she doesn’t really want to talk to him and he is so awkward in his approach to her. However, she soon sees that he is a sweet, harmless guy who may have been a bit nervous to even talk to her in the first place.
Shane was in a rut, after a marriage break up he went through a bit of a ‘life crisis’ which consisted of living in a basement, eating his feelings and hiding away from the world. After his sister and brother in law threw him a career lifeline, he was able to pull himself out of the rut. He now has a really successful job working for them, a defined six pack and lives in a great apartment. Life is better than he could’ve imagined. And then he gets fired. Wait… what?
Shane needs to absorb this news and a few drinks are in order while he mulls over what this means for his future. He never expected to meet someone that night but when he lays eyes on Maggie, he can’t seem to walk away from her. What follows is one of the most memorable nights of his life. He has never felt so comfortable and connected like he does with Maggie Peach Light Gray Italian - this name will make sense when you read this story :)
‘Somehow, in just a day, Maggie Peach Light Gray Italian had chipped away at a piece of the wall I’d built inside myself. Made of regret and held together by fear, the damn thing didn’t stand a chance against this petite, vivacious, and gorgeous woman.’
It would be fair to say that nothing could have prepared Shane for seeing Maggie in his office building on Monday, she is the person replacing him, not only that, they are being pitted against each other for the job. Maggie feels so conflicted about what should be a really exciting and happy time in her life. After spending most of the weekend with Shane and feeling so incredibly connected to him this feels like someone is pranking her.
‘He needed that job as much as I did. It was my escape. But it was his refuge. It was an impossible situation.’
Putting what has started between them on hold so they can focus on work proves to be harder than they thought. Maggie can’t see any way out of this ending badly for both of them - a metaphorical wall dividing them from pursuing happiness together. Maggie and Shane are going to have to dig deep to overcome their fears and find the sweet spot they so deserve.
I loved this story filled with so many laugh out loud and swoony moments. I also loved the lilac flowers, orange tics tacs, knee pads and shoulder kisses.
When Maggie gets the job of her dreams she puts on her big girl pants and moves away from her family and friends to begin her new life. Family means everything to her, especially after losing her parents when she was young. Her oldest brother Heath has been her most significant person since then and he is fiercely protective of Maggie but proud that she is taking this huge step.
‘So yeah, it was terrifying moving to a new city, twenty-five hundred miles away from the only home I’d ever known, but to me, regrets were far heavier than fear.’
Maggie wants to start as she means to go on so instead of staying home her first night she puts on her glad rags and hits the nearest bar. This is where she meets Shane. At first she doesn’t really want to talk to him and he is so awkward in his approach to her. However, she soon sees that he is a sweet, harmless guy who may have been a bit nervous to even talk to her in the first place.
Shane was in a rut, after a marriage break up he went through a bit of a ‘life crisis’ which consisted of living in a basement, eating his feelings and hiding away from the world. After his sister and brother in law threw him a career lifeline, he was able to pull himself out of the rut. He now has a really successful job working for them, a defined six pack and lives in a great apartment. Life is better than he could’ve imagined. And then he gets fired. Wait… what?
Shane needs to absorb this news and a few drinks are in order while he mulls over what this means for his future. He never expected to meet someone that night but when he lays eyes on Maggie, he can’t seem to walk away from her. What follows is one of the most memorable nights of his life. He has never felt so comfortable and connected like he does with Maggie Peach Light Gray Italian - this name will make sense when you read this story :)
‘Somehow, in just a day, Maggie Peach Light Gray Italian had chipped away at a piece of the wall I’d built inside myself. Made of regret and held together by fear, the damn thing didn’t stand a chance against this petite, vivacious, and gorgeous woman.’
It would be fair to say that nothing could have prepared Shane for seeing Maggie in his office building on Monday, she is the person replacing him, not only that, they are being pitted against each other for the job. Maggie feels so conflicted about what should be a really exciting and happy time in her life. After spending most of the weekend with Shane and feeling so incredibly connected to him this feels like someone is pranking her.
‘He needed that job as much as I did. It was my escape. But it was his refuge. It was an impossible situation.’
Putting what has started between them on hold so they can focus on work proves to be harder than they thought. Maggie can’t see any way out of this ending badly for both of them - a metaphorical wall dividing them from pursuing happiness together. Maggie and Shane are going to have to dig deep to overcome their fears and find the sweet spot they so deserve.
I loved this story filled with so many laugh out loud and swoony moments. I also loved the lilac flowers, orange tics tacs, knee pads and shoulder kisses.
Read
June 23, 2020So yes...DNF-ed it
I've tried to read this book twice now. I gave up less than half way through the book but decided to give it another try because HELLO! Aly Martinez!!!!
Unfortunately, I couldn't continue pass the 47% mark 🙈
I've tried to read this book twice now. I gave up less than half way through the book but decided to give it another try because HELLO! Aly Martinez!!!!
Unfortunately, I couldn't continue pass the 47% mark 🙈
May 27, 2020
Received an ARC for a honest review
So this is actually a complete opposite of the kind of books I usually prefer to read. This book didn’t really have much angst or even an asshole hero. This was more of a soft contemporary office/neighbour romance.
Okay so Shane, has finally gotten his life back on track after the whole cheating ex wife scene. His main focus is his current job, working for his brother in law and sister as the creative director of their company until he gets to know he is being fired and his replacement is coming soon.
His family wants him to do his own thing and basically get a life that doesn’t consist of work, drink and sleep. So he then decides to take a risk and talk to a pretty blonde sitting alone near the bar. Turns out the girls name is Maggie and she has just moved into town for a job. (I wonder what job that is 🤭)
Maggie has recently graduated from school and landed herself an amazing job away from her hometown. Despite her overprotective brother trying his best to make her stay, Maggie has decided to enjoy her life the way her mother never could even if it means being away from family. And now here she is in front a gorgeous man who is trying to make small conversations and failing by being stereotypical about her southern upbringing. But still there is something really attractive about Shane that when he asks her out on a date she ends up saying yes.
They both hit it off immediately, I just loved Maggie and Shane’s relationship, they both had quite a sense of humor. They both fell for each other really quickly and honestly I didn’t even realize it until it was mentioned.
Anyway their little love bubble explodes after the weekend is over and they both go to work. Shane being confident he can convince his brother in law that he can continue to work for the company and have a social life outside of work but it all goes down hill when he meets his replacement. Who is non-other than Maggie.
Now they both have to prove who will be the better fit for the job.
I kind of got bored at this point but I think that’s a me problem, like I said this isn’t the kind of book I normally gravitate towards. I love angst and I won’t even say that this book had any like even their “fighting for the position” was in a friendly way as in they both didn’t play any dirty games or tricks. They both wanted the job at the same time wanted the other one to also have it. So yeaaah.
June 11, 2020
Who knew two angst queens like Aly Martinez and M. Mabie could come together and write this? I mean, Aly typically destroys you with her MAJORLY angsty reads and M. Mabie is most definitely a deliverer of kick-you-in-the-gut feels (remember Bait? HOLY SHIT. Still not over that book). So I was not sure what to expect going into When the Walls Come Down but what I got was nothing short of delightful!
This book is so easy, so charming and light and fun and sexy. There are no heavy feels. Just tons of quick witted banter, tender moments, adorably quirky characters, and a sweeter than apple pie romance. It hit all the spots, was exactly what I wanted to read, and I just LOVED every dreamy word.
Shane and Maggie are adorable together. The way they hit it off, and the chemistry between them, was just delicious! I loved watching these two get to know each other, seeing them grow, feeling that natural dynamic they had. I rooted for them big time.
This is an office romance (they both end up vying for the same job) and it’s also a neighbors romance (they live next door to each other) and it is just too cute for words. If you’re looking for a one-sitting read! Something with tons of laughs and swoons, a dozen of dreamy sighs and all the sweetness, this is definitely a book for you. I couldn’t put it down, and I am so here for more from this duo! They write beautifully together. I honestly had no idea who wrote what! So so so good. I just adored it.
This book is so easy, so charming and light and fun and sexy. There are no heavy feels. Just tons of quick witted banter, tender moments, adorably quirky characters, and a sweeter than apple pie romance. It hit all the spots, was exactly what I wanted to read, and I just LOVED every dreamy word.
Shane and Maggie are adorable together. The way they hit it off, and the chemistry between them, was just delicious! I loved watching these two get to know each other, seeing them grow, feeling that natural dynamic they had. I rooted for them big time.
This is an office romance (they both end up vying for the same job) and it’s also a neighbors romance (they live next door to each other) and it is just too cute for words. If you’re looking for a one-sitting read! Something with tons of laughs and swoons, a dozen of dreamy sighs and all the sweetness, this is definitely a book for you. I couldn’t put it down, and I am so here for more from this duo! They write beautifully together. I honestly had no idea who wrote what! So so so good. I just adored it.
June 17, 2020
In times when we are seeking refuge in an enjoyable, smile worthy read, When The Walls Come Down was exactly what we were seeking! A memorable first encounter, a string of fateful coincidences, and an unforgettable night, leads Maggie and Shane down a fast paced romance. Hilarious banter, lovable characters, sweet moments, When The Walls Come Down charmingly illustrates the power of overcoming fear and opening up to the possibility of love.
www.marvelusreads.com
www.marvelusreads.com
June 8, 2020
This was very quick and fun! I really liked it. 🙂
**ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR.❤
**ARC provided by Social Butterfly PR.❤
April 13, 2023
When the Walls Come Down, an all-new neighbors to lovers/workplace romantic comedy from USA Today bestselling author Aly Martinez and M. Mabie is LIVE!!
Grab your copy today or read in #KindleUnlimited
Amazon | Amazon Worldwide
If you're a fan of Aly Martinez you might be side-eyeing the word comedy being used to describe a book she has written and I think that would be a very fair side-eye. I have read damn near every word this woman has published out there and comedy is not a word I would even think she knows the definition of LOL I trusted nothing and went in complete prepared for deep emotional trauma because let's face it, she's really frikkin outstanding with the emotional trauma and it is most certainly what she normally delivers. amirite?!
HA! fooled me!
Holy WOW you guys. Aly Martinez and M Mabie (which btw I had never read before but I will!!) have given us one of the best feel-good romances I have read this year! It is brimming with sentimentality and emotion, but in no way is it traumatic or heavy! The humor behind the story-line and between our leads is a thing of beauty. The ease in which the story unfolded was a work of art. THIS STORY IS AMAZING!!!
Grab your copy today or read in #KindleUnlimited
Amazon | Amazon Worldwide
If you're a fan of Aly Martinez you might be side-eyeing the word comedy being used to describe a book she has written and I think that would be a very fair side-eye. I have read damn near every word this woman has published out there and comedy is not a word I would even think she knows the definition of LOL I trusted nothing and went in complete prepared for deep emotional trauma because let's face it, she's really frikkin outstanding with the emotional trauma and it is most certainly what she normally delivers. amirite?!
HA! fooled me!
Holy WOW you guys. Aly Martinez and M Mabie (which btw I had never read before but I will!!) have given us one of the best feel-good romances I have read this year! It is brimming with sentimentality and emotion, but in no way is it traumatic or heavy! The humor behind the story-line and between our leads is a thing of beauty. The ease in which the story unfolded was a work of art. THIS STORY IS AMAZING!!!
May 26, 2020
5 stars!
OMG, I love this book! A rom/com with epic chemistry, swoon and banter that had me laughing out loud, but also a heartfelt, emotional story about finding unexpected love and fighting to make it work. Beautifully written, with a fantastic love story, I couldn’t put this book down and I absolutely adored it!
This is the first co-write between Aly Martinez and M. Mabie. I’m a massive Martinez fangirl, but this was my first experience reading M. Mabie, and they totally nailed it! The transitions are flawless, and Maggie and Shane’s voices come through fabulously to get us right to the heart of these amazing characters. This book is an absolute standalone, but it does have some fun little ties to the authors’ previous work. Maggie is the younger sister of Heath from the Retrieval Duet by Martinez, and Shane is the older brother of Blake from the Wake series (book #1 - Bait) by Mabie. There is some character crossover, but it’s not key to understanding the story, just a great little extra for fans.
Maggie has packed up her life and moved from her home in Atlanta, to San Francisco. She’s determined to live her life to the fullest and take every opportunity, so she’s left her close and loving family behind to take on a new job on the other side of the country, and wants to experience all that the big city can offer her.
Shane has just been dealt a massive hit. Four years ago his life fell apart when he found his wife in bed with his best friend. He hit rock bottom but has climbed back and now has a great apartment, a job he’s passionate about, and he’s in the greatest shape of his life. But the rug has been pulled out from him once again when his brother-in-law/boss tells him it’s time to move on from his job with the family business so that he can stop being a workaholic and find a better work/life balance. He is not impressed.
Shane and Maggie meet in bar one night when she is exploring her new neighbourhood, and he is drowning his sorrows. It’s awkward, but man, it’s funny, and Shane’s shitty small talk and not-so-smooth-moves somehow lead to them having a date the next day, which leads them to them discover that they are, in fact, neighbours, and they go on to share a life-changingly-steamy weekend together. Things are looking great, with the potential for a relationship that neither of them were looking for, and both are sorta unprepared for, but they know they can’t walk away from each other. Until they both show up to work on Monday and learn that Maggie is the person who has been hired to replace Shane… even though he doesn’t plan to leave.
AWKWARD!
It’s a horrible situation, with room for only one of them in the company. They are both entitled to it, they both deserve it, and while they both want the job, are they prepared to leave the other high and dry?
I went into this expecting a lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers sort of situation, but I was thrilled to discover that it’s so much more. There are real feelings at play here, and those feelings impact every decision they make. My heart actually ached for the situation they were in, but they handle it with humour and so much heart, and I loved how functional they are!
I love this relationship! It’s so much fun, with fantastic banter, flirting and dialogue, and chemistry that sizzles off the page. They tease and joke, and they laugh a lot, there are inside jokes and entertaining small talk and heartfelt confessions. It’s so easy between them, but their situation is complicated, but the whole time they are bickering and commiserating their bad luck, they are there for each other, and they continue falling for each other in a way that neither of them ever expected. It’s funny, beautiful and so, so passionate, and I fell right along with them, loving every moment of it.
But there’s the job situation to sort out, and in addition to that, they’ve got some hurdles to overcome - both of them have built ups walls to protect themselves, and their 9-year age gaps puts them at slightly different stages of their lives. They have things to deal with, but watching it all play out was sweet, swoony, sexy and emotional, and so entertaining.
These are such well-written characters. I could relate to both of them, and their inner monologues were just as entertaining as their shared conversations. Of course, Shane completely stole my heart as the slightly vulnerable guy figuring out a relationship years after having his heart shattered. He is sweet, funny, and kinda clueless, but he’s such a good guy who bravely embraces his attraction and holds nothing back. And Maggie is wonderful as the smart, witty, but still a little scared, younger woman just starting out and determined to prove herself. At so many times throughout this book, the story could have easily descended into an unnecessary angst-fest, but instead these two are open and honest, and though they have some things to work through, I love how upfront they are with each other, putting themselves out there and following their hearts.
It’s a gorgeous story that made me laugh so many times, but that also completely captured my heart! I loved Shane and Maggie, and their love story is absolutely beautiful, with an ending that left me grinning like a fool.
I loved it! 5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
OMG, I love this book! A rom/com with epic chemistry, swoon and banter that had me laughing out loud, but also a heartfelt, emotional story about finding unexpected love and fighting to make it work. Beautifully written, with a fantastic love story, I couldn’t put this book down and I absolutely adored it!
This is the first co-write between Aly Martinez and M. Mabie. I’m a massive Martinez fangirl, but this was my first experience reading M. Mabie, and they totally nailed it! The transitions are flawless, and Maggie and Shane’s voices come through fabulously to get us right to the heart of these amazing characters. This book is an absolute standalone, but it does have some fun little ties to the authors’ previous work. Maggie is the younger sister of Heath from the Retrieval Duet by Martinez, and Shane is the older brother of Blake from the Wake series (book #1 - Bait) by Mabie. There is some character crossover, but it’s not key to understanding the story, just a great little extra for fans.
Maggie has packed up her life and moved from her home in Atlanta, to San Francisco. She’s determined to live her life to the fullest and take every opportunity, so she’s left her close and loving family behind to take on a new job on the other side of the country, and wants to experience all that the big city can offer her.
Shane has just been dealt a massive hit. Four years ago his life fell apart when he found his wife in bed with his best friend. He hit rock bottom but has climbed back and now has a great apartment, a job he’s passionate about, and he’s in the greatest shape of his life. But the rug has been pulled out from him once again when his brother-in-law/boss tells him it’s time to move on from his job with the family business so that he can stop being a workaholic and find a better work/life balance. He is not impressed.
Shane and Maggie meet in bar one night when she is exploring her new neighbourhood, and he is drowning his sorrows. It’s awkward, but man, it’s funny, and Shane’s shitty small talk and not-so-smooth-moves somehow lead to them having a date the next day, which leads them to them discover that they are, in fact, neighbours, and they go on to share a life-changingly-steamy weekend together. Things are looking great, with the potential for a relationship that neither of them were looking for, and both are sorta unprepared for, but they know they can’t walk away from each other. Until they both show up to work on Monday and learn that Maggie is the person who has been hired to replace Shane… even though he doesn’t plan to leave.
AWKWARD!
It’s a horrible situation, with room for only one of them in the company. They are both entitled to it, they both deserve it, and while they both want the job, are they prepared to leave the other high and dry?
It was an impossible situation. Trying to hold on to the life you want, all the while hoping the world crumbles for the person you care about most. Who knew serendipity was such a masochist?
I went into this expecting a lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers sort of situation, but I was thrilled to discover that it’s so much more. There are real feelings at play here, and those feelings impact every decision they make. My heart actually ached for the situation they were in, but they handle it with humour and so much heart, and I loved how functional they are!
I love this relationship! It’s so much fun, with fantastic banter, flirting and dialogue, and chemistry that sizzles off the page. They tease and joke, and they laugh a lot, there are inside jokes and entertaining small talk and heartfelt confessions. It’s so easy between them, but their situation is complicated, but the whole time they are bickering and commiserating their bad luck, they are there for each other, and they continue falling for each other in a way that neither of them ever expected. It’s funny, beautiful and so, so passionate, and I fell right along with them, loving every moment of it.
“I will never let you be alone. I know neither of us want what’s going on at work like it is, but you have got to believe me. I will always be here for you when you need me. No matter what.”
But there’s the job situation to sort out, and in addition to that, they’ve got some hurdles to overcome - both of them have built ups walls to protect themselves, and their 9-year age gaps puts them at slightly different stages of their lives. They have things to deal with, but watching it all play out was sweet, swoony, sexy and emotional, and so entertaining.
How had this woman blown into my world and made it a life?
These are such well-written characters. I could relate to both of them, and their inner monologues were just as entertaining as their shared conversations. Of course, Shane completely stole my heart as the slightly vulnerable guy figuring out a relationship years after having his heart shattered. He is sweet, funny, and kinda clueless, but he’s such a good guy who bravely embraces his attraction and holds nothing back. And Maggie is wonderful as the smart, witty, but still a little scared, younger woman just starting out and determined to prove herself. At so many times throughout this book, the story could have easily descended into an unnecessary angst-fest, but instead these two are open and honest, and though they have some things to work through, I love how upfront they are with each other, putting themselves out there and following their hearts.
It’s a gorgeous story that made me laugh so many times, but that also completely captured my heart! I loved Shane and Maggie, and their love story is absolutely beautiful, with an ending that left me grinning like a fool.
I loved it! 5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 24, 2021
Un delizioso romanzo senza drammi.
June 15, 2020
3.5 Stars!
Mild Spoilers
I actually really liked this one, and I'm glad Aly Martinez tried something different than what she usually writes. And though I haven't read M. Mabie before, I will definitely be checking out her books. Although it was a bit confusing, like I was missing out on other characters' stories, which I then found out I was with the MCs both having been side characters in other books. Either way, i still loved the book, but I wish I would have known this isn't necessarily a complete standalone IMO.
The story was good, especially the first half. I thought this was fast to becoming a five star, but the last 50% slowed down and there was too much back and forth for me. I felt like everytime they would get together, they would break up soon after, and it just got to be too much. One thing i did like though, was that even if they weren't together together, their relationship was still as cute as when they were together.
One thing I loved, was the hero. He was an innocent awkward kind of hero and I was all for it. I did like the heroine for him, but I never completely connected to her, especially because of her issues with moving forward in relationships due to her mom, even though she can hardly remember her. It just didn't really make sense.
Overall, this was a pretty cute book, and even though I'm not a fan of single dad books, I'm excited for the next colab with these two authors so will definitely be reading it. No OW/OM drama.
Mild Spoilers
I actually really liked this one, and I'm glad Aly Martinez tried something different than what she usually writes. And though I haven't read M. Mabie before, I will definitely be checking out her books. Although it was a bit confusing, like I was missing out on other characters' stories, which I then found out I was with the MCs both having been side characters in other books. Either way, i still loved the book, but I wish I would have known this isn't necessarily a complete standalone IMO.
The story was good, especially the first half. I thought this was fast to becoming a five star, but the last 50% slowed down and there was too much back and forth for me. I felt like everytime they would get together, they would break up soon after, and it just got to be too much. One thing i did like though, was that even if they weren't together together, their relationship was still as cute as when they were together.
One thing I loved, was the hero. He was an innocent awkward kind of hero and I was all for it. I did like the heroine for him, but I never completely connected to her, especially because of her issues with moving forward in relationships due to her mom, even though she can hardly remember her. It just didn't really make sense.
Overall, this was a pretty cute book, and even though I'm not a fan of single dad books, I'm excited for the next colab with these two authors so will definitely be reading it. No OW/OM drama.
January 23, 2022
If you plan to read this book you can skip from the 50% mark and go straight to the epilogue — and you won’t even miss a thing. You’re welcome. 😌
I hate that this is so different from the first book I read by this duo which set the bar high for them for me. But.. it is what it is. 🍝
I hate that this is so different from the first book I read by this duo which set the bar high for them for me. But.. it is what it is. 🍝
November 2, 2020
Review to come
June 24, 2020
I couldn't do it. I've had this book for almost three weeks and I'm still at 52%. I have read some boring books since then that I could finish, something about this one though. It just doesn't go anywhere. These kind of books usually follow the angsty plot line but this one doesn't. They meet, have sex, discover they work at the same place and are vying for the same position, they then decide to work together to show they can be partners but the boss says there is not enough finances to cover both of them.
That's all that's happened at 52%, I know ( from experience) that there is going to be some misunderstanding along the line and then some groveling with the "I love yous". I just don't seem to be in the mood for the rigmarole. DNF @52%
That's all that's happened at 52%, I know ( from experience) that there is going to be some misunderstanding along the line and then some groveling with the "I love yous". I just don't seem to be in the mood for the rigmarole. DNF @52%
November 30, 2020
Though I never bonded with our heroine this was sweet. I enjoyed the “lighter” read from Aly Martinez for sure.
It had the right amount of cute/funny with just a teensy bit of the absolutely unnecessary drama of life.
Overall Shane was the real stand out for me and I look forward to reading more from this duo.
It had the right amount of cute/funny with just a teensy bit of the absolutely unnecessary drama of life.
Overall Shane was the real stand out for me and I look forward to reading more from this duo.
June 3, 2020
Engrossing and engaging story that made me giggle nonstop. I wished I could jump in the pages and be friend with Shane & Mags. The Best couple of this year!!!
"A blond, Southern, ranch-dressing-eating, Italian-food-loving pistol" & Dressing Thief, tight assed Fat Boy Shane"
What a hilariously sexy and Swoonworthy laughter filled story to make my mood lighten in these dark times. I suggest you grab it as soon as it releases.
I swooned hard, I fell in love with Fat Boy Shane. And I was so enamored by "Maggie Peach Light Gray Italian." .
I'm a Rom-com fan, but I've NEVER read this smart banter like this ever before. Since This is my first by Mo Mabie, I'm thinking it's her humor at work, added with trademark sensitivity of Aly Martinez, making it a perfect cocktail of unputdownable Romcom Cranberry Vodka. Delicious!!
I laughed at every page, every chapter. A huge smile plastered on my face the moment my eyes landed on the first word, and it remained in place till the last.
It's snarky, it's sassy, it's supremely intelligent piece of writing, if there ever was. It's a breath of freshest air you'll ever breathe, it's that invigorating and energizing. It's fluffy and soft in feel and tickled me pink till I saw glitter and stars
A sister of karma- serendipity is hard at work on the adjoining glass balconies
"This whole thing with Maggie felt more like luck. Or serendipity. Or some other word people used when stars aligned and things just seemed meant to be."
Fated couple, Shane Warren and Maggie Light meet at a bar/best steak restaurant in San Francisco. Rusty at dating duo have awkward small talk and trade jokes and soon the banter turns to flirtation and the BEST weekend sex for both of them. It's spent Tangled in the bed sheets, under or over each other...
Next day the world comes tumbling down, or I should say, a wall comes up between them and they find each other standing on opposite sides of the professional scale
"He needed that job just as much as I did. It was my escape. But it was his refuge. It was an impossible situation. Trying to hold on to the life you want, all the while hoping the world crumbles for the person you care about most.
Who knew serendipity was such a masochist?"
The whole story is about the unsurmountable walls between them. Emotional, physical and ambitious walls that can't be scaled. Either a belt tied bucket goes over them, or they can stare at it. But the walls are there, right between them.
*sigh* when all seems lost, they have to take a hammer and break away a brick (read: a piece) of it, thus injuring his wrist, her shoulder and their collective hearts.
I can't sing enough praises, just go grab it on the 4th and thank me later
5 stars for Duke Peach Warren Blue Milk
#BookBistroBlogApproved
Follow me on:
BookBistroBlog@gmail.com
https://Twitter.com/BookBistro
www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
https://bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
"A blond, Southern, ranch-dressing-eating, Italian-food-loving pistol" & Dressing Thief, tight assed Fat Boy Shane"
What a hilariously sexy and Swoonworthy laughter filled story to make my mood lighten in these dark times. I suggest you grab it as soon as it releases.
I swooned hard, I fell in love with Fat Boy Shane. And I was so enamored by "Maggie Peach Light Gray Italian." .
I'm a Rom-com fan, but I've NEVER read this smart banter like this ever before. Since This is my first by Mo Mabie, I'm thinking it's her humor at work, added with trademark sensitivity of Aly Martinez, making it a perfect cocktail of unputdownable Romcom Cranberry Vodka. Delicious!!
I laughed at every page, every chapter. A huge smile plastered on my face the moment my eyes landed on the first word, and it remained in place till the last.
It's snarky, it's sassy, it's supremely intelligent piece of writing, if there ever was. It's a breath of freshest air you'll ever breathe, it's that invigorating and energizing. It's fluffy and soft in feel and tickled me pink till I saw glitter and stars
A sister of karma- serendipity is hard at work on the adjoining glass balconies
"This whole thing with Maggie felt more like luck. Or serendipity. Or some other word people used when stars aligned and things just seemed meant to be."
Fated couple, Shane Warren and Maggie Light meet at a bar/best steak restaurant in San Francisco. Rusty at dating duo have awkward small talk and trade jokes and soon the banter turns to flirtation and the BEST weekend sex for both of them. It's spent Tangled in the bed sheets, under or over each other...
Next day the world comes tumbling down, or I should say, a wall comes up between them and they find each other standing on opposite sides of the professional scale
"He needed that job just as much as I did. It was my escape. But it was his refuge. It was an impossible situation. Trying to hold on to the life you want, all the while hoping the world crumbles for the person you care about most.
Who knew serendipity was such a masochist?"
The whole story is about the unsurmountable walls between them. Emotional, physical and ambitious walls that can't be scaled. Either a belt tied bucket goes over them, or they can stare at it. But the walls are there, right between them.
*sigh* when all seems lost, they have to take a hammer and break away a brick (read: a piece) of it, thus injuring his wrist, her shoulder and their collective hearts.
I can't sing enough praises, just go grab it on the 4th and thank me later
5 stars for Duke Peach Warren Blue Milk
#BookBistroBlogApproved
Follow me on:
BookBistroBlog@gmail.com
https://Twitter.com/BookBistro
www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
https://bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
May 27, 2020
Holy smoking-peachy-balls of hilarious, feel good fire!
This story deserves a spot on my top Romcom ever and top reads list of 2020. YES! It's that awesome.
The banter in Maggie and Shane's story is clever and witty. I never wanted it to end- EVER. Guaranteed to make you laugh, put hundreds of smiles on your face, and swoon for days in your heart.
Shane Warren is simply one of the most endearing male character's I've had the pleasure to know. It helps that he's extremely hot and has a fantastic backside. I'm overlooking his fear of heights because no one is perfect.
When co workers competing for the same job agree to put their newly found, steamy, match made in heaven relationship in the friend zone, I screamed NO.
The pages flew by as I laughed, cried, and sighed with and for this amazing couple. When the Walls Come Down was created by a new author duo powerhouse who are amazing in their own personal writing worlds. My goodness, this seamlessly written story is begging for more stories about Maggie and Shane's family members. One can only hope!
I highly recommend this book for everyone who needs a lot of warm and fuzzy romance and steam laced with pranks, giggles, and love.
This story deserves a spot on my top Romcom ever and top reads list of 2020. YES! It's that awesome.
The banter in Maggie and Shane's story is clever and witty. I never wanted it to end- EVER. Guaranteed to make you laugh, put hundreds of smiles on your face, and swoon for days in your heart.
Shane Warren is simply one of the most endearing male character's I've had the pleasure to know. It helps that he's extremely hot and has a fantastic backside. I'm overlooking his fear of heights because no one is perfect.
When co workers competing for the same job agree to put their newly found, steamy, match made in heaven relationship in the friend zone, I screamed NO.
The pages flew by as I laughed, cried, and sighed with and for this amazing couple. When the Walls Come Down was created by a new author duo powerhouse who are amazing in their own personal writing worlds. My goodness, this seamlessly written story is begging for more stories about Maggie and Shane's family members. One can only hope!
I highly recommend this book for everyone who needs a lot of warm and fuzzy romance and steam laced with pranks, giggles, and love.
May 26, 2020
5 Orange tic tac stars!!
NO! NO! NOOOO!!!! I desperately did NOT want this book to end! I literally kept trying to turn the page on my kindle, I could live in this world forever!
I've been reading both Aly and Mo for years so I assumed I would really enjoy it but honestly they blew me away! This story is what I think all romance readers are wanting and needing right now, the perfect amount of humor and charm and swoon and passion!
Maggie and Shane had me at their first kinda awkward, kinda quirky, definitely cute first meet and I'm telling you there's no way you won't LOVE them! They're like having an amazing first date, like biting into a warm chocolate chip cookie or stumbling upon a perfect outfit that's in your size AND just happens to be on sale! PERFECTION! I could not stop smiling, or dreamily sighing or feeling giddy that I had the privilege of being in on all their fun inside jokes!
Now this IS Mo and Aly so yeah there's a touch of angst in there, and definitely some times when I felt their emotions deep in my soul but GAH! There's no other place I wanted to be, When the Walls Come Down is fantastically flirty, sexy & steamy, touching, heartfelt and has just become one of my favorite books this year! I've already re read some of the parts I highlighted and laughed my ass off again!
****Fans of the Wake series you'll die all the deaths Casey and Blake are back!!
NO! NO! NOOOO!!!! I desperately did NOT want this book to end! I literally kept trying to turn the page on my kindle, I could live in this world forever!
I've been reading both Aly and Mo for years so I assumed I would really enjoy it but honestly they blew me away! This story is what I think all romance readers are wanting and needing right now, the perfect amount of humor and charm and swoon and passion!
Maggie and Shane had me at their first kinda awkward, kinda quirky, definitely cute first meet and I'm telling you there's no way you won't LOVE them! They're like having an amazing first date, like biting into a warm chocolate chip cookie or stumbling upon a perfect outfit that's in your size AND just happens to be on sale! PERFECTION! I could not stop smiling, or dreamily sighing or feeling giddy that I had the privilege of being in on all their fun inside jokes!
Now this IS Mo and Aly so yeah there's a touch of angst in there, and definitely some times when I felt their emotions deep in my soul but GAH! There's no other place I wanted to be, When the Walls Come Down is fantastically flirty, sexy & steamy, touching, heartfelt and has just become one of my favorite books this year! I've already re read some of the parts I highlighted and laughed my ass off again!
****Fans of the Wake series you'll die all the deaths Casey and Blake are back!!
September 23, 2021
This was ok. it was a quick read/listen. For an Aly Martinez and M. Mabie book, it kinda lacked the angst they're both very well known for, so I was expecting a bit more. However, the characters were both very likeable, and it was nice to revisit some old favorites from previous books.
May 26, 2020
* A review copy was provided by the authors *
~ 5 Peach and Old Man Stars ~
What an outstanding and entertaining feel good story. This is the perfect lighthearted read people should be reading at a time like this.
I was swept up into this story and totally invested in the characters and their lives. Rooting for that HEA!!!
Shane and Maggie were amazing. I loved their banter and unique sense of humors. These two characters were totally made for each other...even despite their 9 year age difference. Both had some hurdles to overcome when it came to giving over their hearts, which lead to a slightly bumpy road but it was a fun journey to take with them.
I have loved all of Aly’s books and now that I have been introduced to M. Mabie , I’ll have to check out some of her solo books. These two have a great future of co-writing books. Their writing was effortless and seamless....Well done ladies!!!
If you are looking for that book that is perfect for a lazy Sunday or a great book to read at the beach....pick this one up, you won’t be sorry!!!
Follow Us at :: Facebook
~ 5 Peach and Old Man Stars ~
What an outstanding and entertaining feel good story. This is the perfect lighthearted read people should be reading at a time like this.
I was swept up into this story and totally invested in the characters and their lives. Rooting for that HEA!!!
Shane and Maggie were amazing. I loved their banter and unique sense of humors. These two characters were totally made for each other...even despite their 9 year age difference. Both had some hurdles to overcome when it came to giving over their hearts, which lead to a slightly bumpy road but it was a fun journey to take with them.
I have loved all of Aly’s books and now that I have been introduced to M. Mabie , I’ll have to check out some of her solo books. These two have a great future of co-writing books. Their writing was effortless and seamless....Well done ladies!!!
If you are looking for that book that is perfect for a lazy Sunday or a great book to read at the beach....pick this one up, you won’t be sorry!!!
Follow Us at :: Facebook
August 11, 2021
Quando crollano i muri è una storia di fine e inizio. Una storia di separazioni e serendipità, dove fare scelte lucide e seguire veramente ciò che vogliamo e che può farci felici, non è così facile come sembra. Ci vuole molto coraggio e molta consapevolezza, ma prima di tutto bisogna avere la mente sempre libera e pronta a stupirsi di qualsiasi cosa la vita sia pronta a offrire. E’ questa la serendipità: essere pronti ad accogliere qualcosa di bello che non stavamo affatto cercando.
I nostri protagonisti sono due persone che si incontrano nel momento giusto e in quello sbagliato allo stesso tempo. Questo libro parla di Shane e Maggie, della loro connessione improvvisa che li accompagna attraverso un viaggio assolutamente incredibile dove quei muri che sono stati creati con tanta cura, iniziano a incrinarsi e sgretolarsi mostrandoci cosa potrebbe veramente essere.
Maggie Light è una ragazza pronta a conquistare il mondo. Ha grandi sogni e obiettivi e, con grande dispiacere di suo fratello maggiore, è decisa ad affrontarli nella sua nuova avventura che la porta da Atlanta a San Francisco. È determinata a vivere la sua vita al massimo e a cogliere ogni opportunità, accettando un’offerta di lavoro e pronta a sperimentare tutto ciò che la grande città può offrirle.
“Faceva il bucato, puliva, preparava la cena mentre suo marito se ne stava seduto sul divano con una birra in mano. Come poteva essere stata felice? Ecco perché dovevo andarmene. Dovevo vedere il mondo e vivere la vita che lei non aveva potuto avere.”
Quello che non si aspettava certo di trovare, era un uomo tutto d’un pezzo di nome Shane Warren che le facesse mettere in discussione tutto ciò che fino a quel momento credeva di sapere e volere. La loro connessione è istantanea e la chimica che c’è tra loro è scoppiettante, tanto che una notte di passione si trasforma in un appuntamento, per poi finire in un weekend indimenticabile. I due vivono la favola fino a quando il lunedì mattina in ufficio la crudele verità viene sbattuta sul tavolo: Maggie è colei che prenderà il posto di lavoro di Shane. Entrambi hanno bisogno di quel lavoro ed entrambi non si arrenderanno senza combattere. Ma l’attrazione che provano l’uno per l’altra è molto forte, riusciranno a trovare un compromesso?
Maggie è feroce, divertente e semplicemente reale. È una ragazza alla ricerca di quel nuovo inizio che la avvicinerà alla vita che ha sempre desiderato e sognato, e non ha paura di impegnarsi nel duro lavoro di cui ha bisogno. È una gemma rara e la amerete fin dall’inizio.
Shane Warren è un uomo che ne ha passate tante. Dopo un divorzio che ha cambiato tutto, è tornato in piedi e ama la sua nuova vita. Shane e Maggie sono entrambi a un bivio nelle loro vite. Dal momento in cui si sono incontrati, non possono smettere di vedersi, non possono smettere di voler stare insieme, e non possono smettere di pensare a cosa potrebbe essere. La loro storia vi permette di stare con loro mentre colgono questa possibilità, mentre assaporano cos’è la vera felicità se riuscite ad abbassare le vostre difese e vivere il momento.
Le cose si sono mosse abbastanza rapidamente tra i due protagonisti, sia per quanto riguarda il tempo, che per il modo in cui si sono innamorati l’uno dell’altra, ma non ho mai avuto la sensazione che la trama fosse affrettata.
Quando crollano i muri è una storia su ciò che accade quando incontri l’unica persona che cambia tutto e inizia a demolire pezzi di quei muri in un modo che non sapevi nemmeno fosse possibile. Quei muri che abbiamo intorno ai nostri cuori e che possono immobilizzarci se glielo permettiamo.
“Stavo imparando però che la vita andava proprio così. A volte non dicevi la cosa giusta, a volte non facevi la cosa giusta, ma la persona giusta riusciva a vedere attraverso tutte le tue stronzate, a vedere te. Quando i muri crollano, resta solo l’amore.”
Una lettura facile ma non per questo meno bella e profonda, sfornita di situazioni pesanti, ma solo una storia d’amore dolce come una torta di mele appena sfornata. Battute argute e dialoghi ben congeniati danno a questo romanzo una marcia in più, che serve a questi bizzarri protagonisti a farci entrare completamente nella loro vita.
Shane mi ha rubato totalmente il cuore, è un uomo dolce, dal cuore grande, intelligente, divertente, altruista e anche un po’ imbarazzante. Un uomo perfettamente imperfetto.
“Siamo seri: quell’uomo mi aveva portato a fare la tessera in biblioteca e poi a fare una passeggiata fino alla sua lavanderia a secco di fiducia. Avevo avuto appuntamenti più romantici con mio fratello. Eppure Shane aveva un fascino talmente innato che persino le sue idiosincrasie avevano un tocco di magia.”
Maggie è giovane ma intraprendente nonostante la paura del cambiamento. È forte e spiritosa e davvero molto matura per la sua età. La relazione tra i due sarebbe potuta andare in moltissimi modi diversi e disastrosi, ma entrambi sono stati onesti e aperti l’uno con l’altro, affrontando tutto insieme con grande maturità. Ci sono sentimenti reali in gioco e quei sentimenti influiscono su ogni decisione che prendono. Ho creduto in loro fin dall’inizio e ogni volta che c’era un ostacolo da affrontare, ho semplicemente adorato il pungente umorismo nel superare una situazione difficile.
Questi sono personaggi così ben scritti che non potevo non relazionarmi con entrambi creando una connessione con i loro pensieri. Una giovane donna intelligente, spiritosa, forse ancora un po’ spaventata, ma determinata a mettersi alla prova e un ragazzo che non ha paura di mostrare la sua vulnerabilità, che non vuole a tutti i costi apparire sexy e scontroso, la sua positività me lo ha fatto apprezzare ancora di più perché siamo sincere, nella vita di tutti i giorni sono questi gli uomini che ci troviamo davanti, e non certo i maschi alfa dei film romantici.
Continua su: https://www.vanitiromancebook.com/boo...
I nostri protagonisti sono due persone che si incontrano nel momento giusto e in quello sbagliato allo stesso tempo. Questo libro parla di Shane e Maggie, della loro connessione improvvisa che li accompagna attraverso un viaggio assolutamente incredibile dove quei muri che sono stati creati con tanta cura, iniziano a incrinarsi e sgretolarsi mostrandoci cosa potrebbe veramente essere.
Maggie Light è una ragazza pronta a conquistare il mondo. Ha grandi sogni e obiettivi e, con grande dispiacere di suo fratello maggiore, è decisa ad affrontarli nella sua nuova avventura che la porta da Atlanta a San Francisco. È determinata a vivere la sua vita al massimo e a cogliere ogni opportunità, accettando un’offerta di lavoro e pronta a sperimentare tutto ciò che la grande città può offrirle.
“Faceva il bucato, puliva, preparava la cena mentre suo marito se ne stava seduto sul divano con una birra in mano. Come poteva essere stata felice? Ecco perché dovevo andarmene. Dovevo vedere il mondo e vivere la vita che lei non aveva potuto avere.”
Quello che non si aspettava certo di trovare, era un uomo tutto d’un pezzo di nome Shane Warren che le facesse mettere in discussione tutto ciò che fino a quel momento credeva di sapere e volere. La loro connessione è istantanea e la chimica che c’è tra loro è scoppiettante, tanto che una notte di passione si trasforma in un appuntamento, per poi finire in un weekend indimenticabile. I due vivono la favola fino a quando il lunedì mattina in ufficio la crudele verità viene sbattuta sul tavolo: Maggie è colei che prenderà il posto di lavoro di Shane. Entrambi hanno bisogno di quel lavoro ed entrambi non si arrenderanno senza combattere. Ma l’attrazione che provano l’uno per l’altra è molto forte, riusciranno a trovare un compromesso?
Maggie è feroce, divertente e semplicemente reale. È una ragazza alla ricerca di quel nuovo inizio che la avvicinerà alla vita che ha sempre desiderato e sognato, e non ha paura di impegnarsi nel duro lavoro di cui ha bisogno. È una gemma rara e la amerete fin dall’inizio.
Shane Warren è un uomo che ne ha passate tante. Dopo un divorzio che ha cambiato tutto, è tornato in piedi e ama la sua nuova vita. Shane e Maggie sono entrambi a un bivio nelle loro vite. Dal momento in cui si sono incontrati, non possono smettere di vedersi, non possono smettere di voler stare insieme, e non possono smettere di pensare a cosa potrebbe essere. La loro storia vi permette di stare con loro mentre colgono questa possibilità, mentre assaporano cos’è la vera felicità se riuscite ad abbassare le vostre difese e vivere il momento.
Le cose si sono mosse abbastanza rapidamente tra i due protagonisti, sia per quanto riguarda il tempo, che per il modo in cui si sono innamorati l’uno dell’altra, ma non ho mai avuto la sensazione che la trama fosse affrettata.
Quando crollano i muri è una storia su ciò che accade quando incontri l’unica persona che cambia tutto e inizia a demolire pezzi di quei muri in un modo che non sapevi nemmeno fosse possibile. Quei muri che abbiamo intorno ai nostri cuori e che possono immobilizzarci se glielo permettiamo.
“Stavo imparando però che la vita andava proprio così. A volte non dicevi la cosa giusta, a volte non facevi la cosa giusta, ma la persona giusta riusciva a vedere attraverso tutte le tue stronzate, a vedere te. Quando i muri crollano, resta solo l’amore.”
Una lettura facile ma non per questo meno bella e profonda, sfornita di situazioni pesanti, ma solo una storia d’amore dolce come una torta di mele appena sfornata. Battute argute e dialoghi ben congeniati danno a questo romanzo una marcia in più, che serve a questi bizzarri protagonisti a farci entrare completamente nella loro vita.
Shane mi ha rubato totalmente il cuore, è un uomo dolce, dal cuore grande, intelligente, divertente, altruista e anche un po’ imbarazzante. Un uomo perfettamente imperfetto.
“Siamo seri: quell’uomo mi aveva portato a fare la tessera in biblioteca e poi a fare una passeggiata fino alla sua lavanderia a secco di fiducia. Avevo avuto appuntamenti più romantici con mio fratello. Eppure Shane aveva un fascino talmente innato che persino le sue idiosincrasie avevano un tocco di magia.”
Maggie è giovane ma intraprendente nonostante la paura del cambiamento. È forte e spiritosa e davvero molto matura per la sua età. La relazione tra i due sarebbe potuta andare in moltissimi modi diversi e disastrosi, ma entrambi sono stati onesti e aperti l’uno con l’altro, affrontando tutto insieme con grande maturità. Ci sono sentimenti reali in gioco e quei sentimenti influiscono su ogni decisione che prendono. Ho creduto in loro fin dall’inizio e ogni volta che c’era un ostacolo da affrontare, ho semplicemente adorato il pungente umorismo nel superare una situazione difficile.
Questi sono personaggi così ben scritti che non potevo non relazionarmi con entrambi creando una connessione con i loro pensieri. Una giovane donna intelligente, spiritosa, forse ancora un po’ spaventata, ma determinata a mettersi alla prova e un ragazzo che non ha paura di mostrare la sua vulnerabilità, che non vuole a tutti i costi apparire sexy e scontroso, la sua positività me lo ha fatto apprezzare ancora di più perché siamo sincere, nella vita di tutti i giorni sono questi gli uomini che ci troviamo davanti, e non certo i maschi alfa dei film romantici.
Continua su: https://www.vanitiromancebook.com/boo...
May 29, 2020
4.5 stars
I started this book at the tail end of my 24-hour read-a-thon, so I was a bit spent at that point. But this book prevented me from taking a reading hiatus. This was a great example of how the romance genre is the perfect escape. Why worry about my problems when I can read about someone else’s problems? LOL, jk. The reason this was a perfect escape was how these two main characters handled their problems, it was unexpectedly sweet.
The synopsis lays out the major issues, when Shane Warren falls for a woman who is not only his neighbor but is the woman who is set to take his job. With the second discovery, I really thought this book was going to take a bad turn, filled with angst I was in no mood for. But Shane is a breath of fresh air. After years of disappointment, he has become a man who sees things from the "glass is half full" perspective. And that positive outlook added to his already charming appeal. In my opinion, Maggie Light didn't stand a chance.
"You're being weird."
"I'm always weird. Haven't we met?"
While there are some rocky moments, when the two make assumptions, or Maggie goes into panic mode, they show a lot of maturity that is missing from romance stories. The authors don't drag in unnecessary drama. There is some angst, but it is well placed and made sense given the speed of this relationship.
As you can tell, I loved this story. Two great characters who were easy to cheer for. Throw in some tic tacs and some knee-pads and you have a winner (this will make sense once your read it). It you are looking for a lighthearted romance, don't pass this one up!
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
I started this book at the tail end of my 24-hour read-a-thon, so I was a bit spent at that point. But this book prevented me from taking a reading hiatus. This was a great example of how the romance genre is the perfect escape. Why worry about my problems when I can read about someone else’s problems? LOL, jk. The reason this was a perfect escape was how these two main characters handled their problems, it was unexpectedly sweet.
The synopsis lays out the major issues, when Shane Warren falls for a woman who is not only his neighbor but is the woman who is set to take his job. With the second discovery, I really thought this book was going to take a bad turn, filled with angst I was in no mood for. But Shane is a breath of fresh air. After years of disappointment, he has become a man who sees things from the "glass is half full" perspective. And that positive outlook added to his already charming appeal. In my opinion, Maggie Light didn't stand a chance.
"You're being weird."
"I'm always weird. Haven't we met?"
While there are some rocky moments, when the two make assumptions, or Maggie goes into panic mode, they show a lot of maturity that is missing from romance stories. The authors don't drag in unnecessary drama. There is some angst, but it is well placed and made sense given the speed of this relationship.
As you can tell, I loved this story. Two great characters who were easy to cheer for. Throw in some tic tacs and some knee-pads and you have a winner (this will make sense once your read it). It you are looking for a lighthearted romance, don't pass this one up!
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
For more reviews, visit
June 7, 2020
4.25 Big Guy and Peach Stars
Normally I'm not a big fan of reading co-writer books since each writer has their own style but these two were in perfect sync with each other and this made the book so enjoyable! I am a big fan of Ms Martinez but I think I may just have to check out the other books that Ms Mabie has written! These two are great together!
Maggie and Shane were so cute together that while reading, I found myself so many times with the biggest grin on my face. And the Epilogue...perfection!
Normally I'm not a big fan of reading co-writer books since each writer has their own style but these two were in perfect sync with each other and this made the book so enjoyable! I am a big fan of Ms Martinez but I think I may just have to check out the other books that Ms Mabie has written! These two are great together!
Maggie and Shane were so cute together that while reading, I found myself so many times with the biggest grin on my face. And the Epilogue...perfection!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 363 reviews