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Falling Backward
In the midst of the pandemic, Hope Harlow, an engaged 30-year-old writer living in New York City, is suddenly forced to reevaluate her life when her past and future unexpectedly collide.
After a decade of searching, but to no avail, Alex--the man she met while traveling abroad to Ibiza--abruptly reappears. Hope must now come face-to-face with a memory she has never let go of and the planned life she is subsequently supposed to have.
Has fate stepped in to reaffirm the path she is on, or has it unfolded before her to show her that memories might not always be memories, and connections--no matter how long they are lost for--will always return one day.
After a decade of searching, but to no avail, Alex--the man she met while traveling abroad to Ibiza--abruptly reappears. Hope must now come face-to-face with a memory she has never let go of and the planned life she is subsequently supposed to have.
Has fate stepped in to reaffirm the path she is on, or has it unfolded before her to show her that memories might not always be memories, and connections--no matter how long they are lost for--will always return one day.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 7, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
May 21, 2024
Looking for your next page-turner? "Falling Backward" by Regina Kypriandes is calling your name! This book dives into the pandemic-stricken world of Hope Harlow, a 30-year-old NYC writer who’s about to tie the knot. Just as she’s planning her future, Alex—the guy she met in Ibiza a decade ago—pops back into her life. Talk about a plot twist!
The chemistry between Hope and Alex is off the charts. Their reunion is filled with all the feels, from heart-pounding excitement to nail-biting tension. Regina Kypriandes does an amazing job capturing that "what if" magic, making you wonder about your own long-lost loves and forgotten dreams.
What makes this book stand out is its perfect blend of past and present. Hope’s journey through the chaos of the pandemic while dealing with her unresolved feelings for Alex is super relatable. It’s like Kypriandes has bottled up all our quarantine vibes and turned them into a heartfelt, compelling story.
Set against the backdrop of a world in lockdown, "Falling Backward" hits home with its themes of love, fate, and second chances. You’ll find yourself rooting for Hope as she navigates her way through the messiness of life and love, wondering if fate is giving her a nudge or a full-on shove.
In a nutshell, "Falling Backward" is a beautiful, emotional ride you won’t want to miss. Regina Kypriandes has crafted a story that’s perfect for a cozy reading session. So grab your favorite blanket, a cup of tea, and get ready to dive into Hope’s unforgettable journey.
The chemistry between Hope and Alex is off the charts. Their reunion is filled with all the feels, from heart-pounding excitement to nail-biting tension. Regina Kypriandes does an amazing job capturing that "what if" magic, making you wonder about your own long-lost loves and forgotten dreams.
What makes this book stand out is its perfect blend of past and present. Hope’s journey through the chaos of the pandemic while dealing with her unresolved feelings for Alex is super relatable. It’s like Kypriandes has bottled up all our quarantine vibes and turned them into a heartfelt, compelling story.
Set against the backdrop of a world in lockdown, "Falling Backward" hits home with its themes of love, fate, and second chances. You’ll find yourself rooting for Hope as she navigates her way through the messiness of life and love, wondering if fate is giving her a nudge or a full-on shove.
In a nutshell, "Falling Backward" is a beautiful, emotional ride you won’t want to miss. Regina Kypriandes has crafted a story that’s perfect for a cozy reading session. So grab your favorite blanket, a cup of tea, and get ready to dive into Hope’s unforgettable journey.
July 31, 2024
Falling Backward" by Regina Kypriandes grabbed my attention right away with its intriguing premise set against the backdrop of the pandemic. The cover is beautifully designed, and the title itself evokes a sense of nostalgia and introspection.
The story follows Hope Harlow, a 30-year-old writer in NYC, whose life is turned upside down when Alex, a man from her past, reappears after a decade. The plot masterfully weaves between Hope's current life and her memories of Alex, creating a compelling narrative about love, fate, and second chances.
Regina Kypriandes' writing is both lyrical and engaging, making it easy to get lost in Hope's world. The vivid descriptions and emotional depth bring the characters to life, making every page a delight to read.
"Falling Backward" explores themes of love, memory, and destiny. It challenges the reader to think about the impact of past relationships on our present and future, and whether true connections can stand the test of time.
I thoroughly enjoyed "Falling Backward." The combination of romance and introspection, especially set during the relatable context of the pandemic, adds a unique twist. Hope's journey of self-discovery and the rekindling of a lost connection kept me engaged from beginning to end.
In short"Falling Backward" is a beautifully written, thought-provoking novel that will resonate with anyone who has ever wondered about the roads not taken. Regina Kypriandes has crafted a heartfelt story that stays with you long after the last page.
The story follows Hope Harlow, a 30-year-old writer in NYC, whose life is turned upside down when Alex, a man from her past, reappears after a decade. The plot masterfully weaves between Hope's current life and her memories of Alex, creating a compelling narrative about love, fate, and second chances.
Regina Kypriandes' writing is both lyrical and engaging, making it easy to get lost in Hope's world. The vivid descriptions and emotional depth bring the characters to life, making every page a delight to read.
"Falling Backward" explores themes of love, memory, and destiny. It challenges the reader to think about the impact of past relationships on our present and future, and whether true connections can stand the test of time.
I thoroughly enjoyed "Falling Backward." The combination of romance and introspection, especially set during the relatable context of the pandemic, adds a unique twist. Hope's journey of self-discovery and the rekindling of a lost connection kept me engaged from beginning to end.
In short"Falling Backward" is a beautifully written, thought-provoking novel that will resonate with anyone who has ever wondered about the roads not taken. Regina Kypriandes has crafted a heartfelt story that stays with you long after the last page.
February 6, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Falling Backward is an emotional, swoon-worthy romance that completely pulled me in from the first page. Regina Kypriandes does an incredible job weaving together fate, lost love, and the painful choices that come with timing.
Hope Harlow feels so real — her struggle between the life she planned and the love she never truly let go of is heartbreaking and beautiful all at once. When Alex reappears after years apart, the chemistry is instant, intense, and impossible to ignore. Every scene between them is filled with longing, passion, and that “what if” feeling that keeps you turning pages late into the night.
The pandemic backdrop added depth and realism to the story, making Hope’s emotional journey even more powerful. The Ibiza memories were dreamy and romantic, perfectly contrasting the chaos of the present.
If you love second chance romance, fate-driven love stories, and books that make your heart ache in the best way, Falling Backward is a must-read. It’s steamy, emotional, and unforgettable — and I couldn’t wait to jump straight into the sequel!
Highly recommend! 💕📖
Falling Backward is an emotional, swoon-worthy romance that completely pulled me in from the first page. Regina Kypriandes does an incredible job weaving together fate, lost love, and the painful choices that come with timing.
Hope Harlow feels so real — her struggle between the life she planned and the love she never truly let go of is heartbreaking and beautiful all at once. When Alex reappears after years apart, the chemistry is instant, intense, and impossible to ignore. Every scene between them is filled with longing, passion, and that “what if” feeling that keeps you turning pages late into the night.
The pandemic backdrop added depth and realism to the story, making Hope’s emotional journey even more powerful. The Ibiza memories were dreamy and romantic, perfectly contrasting the chaos of the present.
If you love second chance romance, fate-driven love stories, and books that make your heart ache in the best way, Falling Backward is a must-read. It’s steamy, emotional, and unforgettable — and I couldn’t wait to jump straight into the sequel!
Highly recommend! 💕📖
May 17, 2025
62 down, 238 to go.
Genre - Romance
Falling Backward
An engaged Hope Harlow is forced to reevaluate her life when Alex Jensen, a man from her past, reappears.
---My Thoughts---
Choosing between Mark and Alex was like choosing between the devil and the deep blue sea.
I was disappointed by Alex. His reasons weren't substantial, nor was his horrible behavior justifiable. When Alex insinuated that he may be self sabotaging, I strongly disagreed because there are levels to self sabotage. He was a douchebag.
Lessons:
1. The best moments can be in the simplest of things.
2. You never know the impact of a person until they are gone.
3. Everything happens for a purpose. Everything and everyone has its time and place.
4. Do not always wait for the future, do what you love and live in the moment.
5. If you look hard enough, there is a reason for everything that happens.
6. Your version of people often isn't who they truly are.
7. Do not settle into society’s version of whom you should be.
8. Let go of the past and the expectations attached to it.
Genre - Romance
Falling Backward
An engaged Hope Harlow is forced to reevaluate her life when Alex Jensen, a man from her past, reappears.
---My Thoughts---
Choosing between Mark and Alex was like choosing between the devil and the deep blue sea.
I was disappointed by Alex. His reasons weren't substantial, nor was his horrible behavior justifiable. When Alex insinuated that he may be self sabotaging, I strongly disagreed because there are levels to self sabotage. He was a douchebag.
Lessons:
1. The best moments can be in the simplest of things.
2. You never know the impact of a person until they are gone.
3. Everything happens for a purpose. Everything and everyone has its time and place.
4. Do not always wait for the future, do what you love and live in the moment.
5. If you look hard enough, there is a reason for everything that happens.
6. Your version of people often isn't who they truly are.
7. Do not settle into society’s version of whom you should be.
8. Let go of the past and the expectations attached to it.
July 3, 2026
Some love stories don't fade with time... they simply wait.
Falling Backward is a beautifully emotional story about love, timing, and the connections that never truly leave us. Hope's reunion with Alex after ten years is filled with so much longing, heartbreak, hope, and uncertainty that I felt every emotion right alongside her.
The way the story moves between the past and present makes every memory and every reunion hit even harder. Watching Hope struggle between the life she has and the feelings she thought she'd left behind was both heartbreaking and incredibly compelling.
Set against the backdrop of the pandemic, the story feels intimate, authentic, and deeply reflective. Regina captures the ache of missed chances and the question we all wonder at some point: What if?
This book completely pulled me in and refused to let go. It's tender, emotional, and full of moments that will stay with you long after you've finished the last page. A truly unforgettable read!
Falling Backward is a beautifully emotional story about love, timing, and the connections that never truly leave us. Hope's reunion with Alex after ten years is filled with so much longing, heartbreak, hope, and uncertainty that I felt every emotion right alongside her.
The way the story moves between the past and present makes every memory and every reunion hit even harder. Watching Hope struggle between the life she has and the feelings she thought she'd left behind was both heartbreaking and incredibly compelling.
Set against the backdrop of the pandemic, the story feels intimate, authentic, and deeply reflective. Regina captures the ache of missed chances and the question we all wonder at some point: What if?
This book completely pulled me in and refused to let go. It's tender, emotional, and full of moments that will stay with you long after you've finished the last page. A truly unforgettable read!
July 18, 2026
What an emotional and thought-provoking read. The story did a wonderful job exploring love, timing, and the idea that some people leave a lasting mark on your life, no matter how much time has passed.
I really enjoyed the way the story moves between the past and present, slowly revealing the characters history while building the tension in the present. The journey felt honest and relatable, and I found myself invested from beginning to end.
The writing is engaging, the characters feel real, and the emotions come through in every chapter. It’s a story about more than romance, which is what called to me. It’s about growth, self-discovery, and having the courage to question the life you’ve planned when your heart starts asking different questions.
If you enjoy second-chance romances with emotional depth, believable characters, and a story that stays with you after you’ve finished, I definitely recommend this read.
I really enjoyed the way the story moves between the past and present, slowly revealing the characters history while building the tension in the present. The journey felt honest and relatable, and I found myself invested from beginning to end.
The writing is engaging, the characters feel real, and the emotions come through in every chapter. It’s a story about more than romance, which is what called to me. It’s about growth, self-discovery, and having the courage to question the life you’ve planned when your heart starts asking different questions.
If you enjoy second-chance romances with emotional depth, believable characters, and a story that stays with you after you’ve finished, I definitely recommend this read.
March 19, 2026
"It was just a memory that I held onto, and he was the one person behind it. The one person, regardless of time, I just couldn’t shake. A passionate poisoning that pierced my skin and burned my entire soul."
This book gave me all the feelings. The yearning Hope held for Alex and the pull she felt towards him after those 3 days together. The anger and sadness following the rekindling of their relationship a decade later.The confusion and torn feeling about her relationship with Mark.
This book read like a close friend's diary. Seeing her inner thoughts go on the roller coaster of emotions. I cant wait to read the next book and see where this story goes.
This book gave me all the feelings. The yearning Hope held for Alex and the pull she felt towards him after those 3 days together. The anger and sadness following the rekindling of their relationship a decade later.The confusion and torn feeling about her relationship with Mark.
This book read like a close friend's diary. Seeing her inner thoughts go on the roller coaster of emotions. I cant wait to read the next book and see where this story goes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2022
A very satisfying read.
A fresh, fast and fun novel! Could not guess how it would end. Loved the author's honest placement of her characters. She definitely took this reader for an exciting ride, thanks and ever so grateful for keeping me entertained, looking forward to the next entry from this nascent author!
A fresh, fast and fun novel! Could not guess how it would end. Loved the author's honest placement of her characters. She definitely took this reader for an exciting ride, thanks and ever so grateful for keeping me entertained, looking forward to the next entry from this nascent author!
June 17, 2024
Alex - what the heck man.
I definitely did not expect this to go the way it did.
It was a suspenseful romance and some parts definitely shattered my heart.
Now I know “what happens in Ibiza stays in Ibiza … or does it” has a lot to do with a special love interest.
I enjoyed the story line, I would love more of their story! Such a true love type of book
I definitely did not expect this to go the way it did.
It was a suspenseful romance and some parts definitely shattered my heart.
Now I know “what happens in Ibiza stays in Ibiza … or does it” has a lot to do with a special love interest.
I enjoyed the story line, I would love more of their story! Such a true love type of book
October 31, 2025
Looking for a great romance story to read this is definitely it!! It takes place during the pandemic. This book was done beautifully especially with the past and present without you getting lost or wondering what’s going on. Plus I’m a sucker for a second chance story ❤️❤️❤️
January 17, 2026
To say this book is aggressively mediocre would be a compliment. The whole trope of what could have been is giving midlife crisis. I’m now also wondering what could have been had I not subjected myself to this generic disappointment.
July 4, 2026
Cute love story 💗
This was a very interesting love story and I loved the besties Hope & Liz! Liz definitely had Hope's back especially when it came to a need to intervene when she knew her friend wouldn't act on a specific situation.
This was a very interesting love story and I loved the besties Hope & Liz! Liz definitely had Hope's back especially when it came to a need to intervene when she knew her friend wouldn't act on a specific situation.
June 4, 2025
Read 65% of book, did not finish. Static, immature, one dimensional characters and super thin plot line in my opinion.
February 26, 2026
loved it
Absolutely love this book. It’s short, but once you’re done, you can’t wait for a book too very well written.
Absolutely love this book. It’s short, but once you’re done, you can’t wait for a book too very well written.
August 26, 2026
⭐⭐⭐.5/5
I truly loved the concept of Falling Backwards. From the very beginning, I thought there was so much potential in the story, and I was really happy with the overall plot and the way it progressed.
Where I struggled a little more was with the characters and some of the tropes. Miscommunication is one of my least favorite tropes, and unfortunately, I felt like it was used a little too much for my personal taste. There were several moments where I found myself wishing the characters would simply communicate instead of continuing to circle around the same problems. I also struggled with the FMC at times. She seemed to remain stuck on some of the same issues throughout the story, which gave me the impression of some immaturity in certain situations. This stood out to me more because she is a character in her thirties, and I found myself wanting to see a little more growth and progression from her. Despite those issues, I genuinely enjoyed the concept and the overall direction of the plot. There was so much potential in the story, and I was and am invested in seeing how everything would unfold.
Ultimately, this landed at 3.5 stars for me. I enjoyed the story and the concept, even though some of the character choices and tropes didn't completely work for me personally.
I'm grateful to the author for trusting me with their story and for giving me the opportunity to read and support a fellow author friend.
I truly loved the concept of Falling Backwards. From the very beginning, I thought there was so much potential in the story, and I was really happy with the overall plot and the way it progressed.
Where I struggled a little more was with the characters and some of the tropes. Miscommunication is one of my least favorite tropes, and unfortunately, I felt like it was used a little too much for my personal taste. There were several moments where I found myself wishing the characters would simply communicate instead of continuing to circle around the same problems. I also struggled with the FMC at times. She seemed to remain stuck on some of the same issues throughout the story, which gave me the impression of some immaturity in certain situations. This stood out to me more because she is a character in her thirties, and I found myself wanting to see a little more growth and progression from her. Despite those issues, I genuinely enjoyed the concept and the overall direction of the plot. There was so much potential in the story, and I was and am invested in seeing how everything would unfold.
Ultimately, this landed at 3.5 stars for me. I enjoyed the story and the concept, even though some of the character choices and tropes didn't completely work for me personally.
I'm grateful to the author for trusting me with their story and for giving me the opportunity to read and support a fellow author friend.
July 8, 2026
that last chapter... him who... which him... grrrr
This book held so much emotion! I can actually feel her confusion and guilt and the pull in different directions. Honestly by the end of the book I was rooting for neither guy! and then both and then neither... I'm not even sure i WANT to know who it is in the last chapter at this point! This is one that if I had a physical copy.. it would have gotten flying lessons!
This book held so much emotion! I can actually feel her confusion and guilt and the pull in different directions. Honestly by the end of the book I was rooting for neither guy! and then both and then neither... I'm not even sure i WANT to know who it is in the last chapter at this point! This is one that if I had a physical copy.. it would have gotten flying lessons!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews