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Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort #2
Falling Under
Two enemies stranded at a small cabin? Let the games begin.
Jeremy Ward never meant to make a winning bid at the Under the Stars charity auction. Now he’s stuck with a prize he can’t get rid of: three art therapy sessions with a pint-sized woman who won’t take no for an answer.
But Jeremy can be stubborn, too. If there’s anything this widower has no intention of sharing with a complete stranger, it’s his feelings—or his heart.
Astrid Bergström’s life has never felt more out of control. When her camper van—home sweet home—breaks down after a torturous art session with the town grump (and brawny mountain giant), things go from bad to worse.
Stranded at his cabin during an epic blizzard, Astrid restores balance the only way she knows how—by waging a prank war on the most uptight guy in Ponderosa Falls.
Though as their pranks take an unexpected turn, Astrid wonders if she got it wrong. Maybe there’s more to Jeremy than everyone thinks, but Astrid has secrets of her own. And once Jeremy finds out the truth, it’s going to be game over, no matter how much she wishes it didn’t have to end.
Falling Under is a closed-door sweet romantic comedy with plenty of chemistry but no explicit content. It can be read as a standalone, or as part of the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort series.
Jeremy Ward never meant to make a winning bid at the Under the Stars charity auction. Now he’s stuck with a prize he can’t get rid of: three art therapy sessions with a pint-sized woman who won’t take no for an answer.
But Jeremy can be stubborn, too. If there’s anything this widower has no intention of sharing with a complete stranger, it’s his feelings—or his heart.
Astrid Bergström’s life has never felt more out of control. When her camper van—home sweet home—breaks down after a torturous art session with the town grump (and brawny mountain giant), things go from bad to worse.
Stranded at his cabin during an epic blizzard, Astrid restores balance the only way she knows how—by waging a prank war on the most uptight guy in Ponderosa Falls.
Though as their pranks take an unexpected turn, Astrid wonders if she got it wrong. Maybe there’s more to Jeremy than everyone thinks, but Astrid has secrets of her own. And once Jeremy finds out the truth, it’s going to be game over, no matter how much she wishes it didn’t have to end.
Falling Under is a closed-door sweet romantic comedy with plenty of chemistry but no explicit content. It can be read as a standalone, or as part of the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort series.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2023
41 people are currently reading
358 people want to read
About the author
Sydney Muse
7 books43 followersSydney Muse writes sweet stories full of lovable characters and swoon-worthy kisses. She grew up in a big city surrounded by the ocean, but now she lives in a small town surrounded by mountains. When she's not writing, you can find her (accidentally) killing plants in her garden, wrangling her kids, watching cooking shows with her husband, and trying to entertain two rambunctious cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 27, 2023
This was my first Sydney Muse read and I adored it. It was grump/sunshine romance and I loved the hero. It definitely kept my attention. I would read more from this author.
June 6, 2025
Blog Post: https://fictionwithphoebe.com/falling...
Equal parts hilarious and heartwarming, Falling Under by Sydney Muse promised some of my favorite romance tropes, and it did not disappoint!
I loved Astrid and Jeremy’s dynamic. Their antics (especially when Astrid is stuck at Jeremy’s cabin) kept me turning pages. One minute they’re pulling pranks on each other, and the next minute they’re having a tender moment.
If you love grumpy/sunshine romance and forced proximity situations, then you don’t want to miss this cozy romcom story!
Favorite moments:
❄️ the charity auction
❄️ Astrid’s fake injury
❄️ “Welcome home, Casper”
❄️ F.T.R.
❄️ french toast (with strawberries, not bananas)
Content Notes:
noticing and awareness, mentions of cancer and loved ones who died from it, Jeremy is shirtless a couple times, (fake) blood, Jeremy pretends to undress for a shower while Astrid is hiding there (he wasn't actually going to fully undress and doesn't go any further than removing his shirt), one use of "naked" (no explicit details), touching, cuddling, a couple uses of "sexiest," kissing, flirting, only one bed situation (nothing happens), one use of “hot and bothered,” a married man is said to have "frolicked in fountains with models," implications that a boyfriend and girlfriend moved in together, a woman is (falsely) referred to as a man's mistress
Equal parts hilarious and heartwarming, Falling Under by Sydney Muse promised some of my favorite romance tropes, and it did not disappoint!
I loved Astrid and Jeremy’s dynamic. Their antics (especially when Astrid is stuck at Jeremy’s cabin) kept me turning pages. One minute they’re pulling pranks on each other, and the next minute they’re having a tender moment.
If you love grumpy/sunshine romance and forced proximity situations, then you don’t want to miss this cozy romcom story!
Favorite moments:
❄️ the charity auction
❄️ Astrid’s fake injury
❄️ “Welcome home, Casper”
❄️ F.T.R.
❄️ french toast (with strawberries, not bananas)
Content Notes:
noticing and awareness, mentions of cancer and loved ones who died from it, Jeremy is shirtless a couple times, (fake) blood, Jeremy pretends to undress for a shower while Astrid is hiding there (he wasn't actually going to fully undress and doesn't go any further than removing his shirt), one use of "naked" (no explicit details), touching, cuddling, a couple uses of "sexiest," kissing, flirting, only one bed situation (nothing happens), one use of “hot and bothered,” a married man is said to have "frolicked in fountains with models," implications that a boyfriend and girlfriend moved in together, a woman is (falsely) referred to as a man's mistress
September 21, 2024
Je ne m’attendais pas à une histoire aussi bien construite et une écriture aussi agréable. Astrid m’a totalement séduite avec son évolution tout au long du roman, notamment la manière dont sa perception de l’amour se transforme subtilement, mais puissamment, au fil des pages.
Jérémie, de son côté, est un personnage masculin fascinant, placé dans une situation inhabituelle pour ce genre d’histoire (et non, je ne vais pas vous spoiler). Il prend des risques, il a des peurs, et tout cela est décrit avec une justesse qui m’a vraiment accrochée. Je ne m’attendais pas à apprécier autant ce côté de l’intrigue, mais il apporte une belle profondeur à l’ensemble.
En plus de la dynamique entre Astrid et Jérémie, l’histoire est enrichie par les tensions et les secrets familiaux d’Astrid. On sent que chaque fil narratif est pensé et tissé avec soin, ce qui fait que le développement de ces thèmes est à la fois touchant et captivant. 📚
Ce livre est une belle surprise, et je le recommande à quiconque cherche une romance intelligente et pleine de cœur.
Jérémie, de son côté, est un personnage masculin fascinant, placé dans une situation inhabituelle pour ce genre d’histoire (et non, je ne vais pas vous spoiler). Il prend des risques, il a des peurs, et tout cela est décrit avec une justesse qui m’a vraiment accrochée. Je ne m’attendais pas à apprécier autant ce côté de l’intrigue, mais il apporte une belle profondeur à l’ensemble.
En plus de la dynamique entre Astrid et Jérémie, l’histoire est enrichie par les tensions et les secrets familiaux d’Astrid. On sent que chaque fil narratif est pensé et tissé avec soin, ce qui fait que le développement de ces thèmes est à la fois touchant et captivant. 📚
Ce livre est une belle surprise, et je le recommande à quiconque cherche une romance intelligente et pleine de cœur.
April 28, 2023
4 stars!!
This was so cute 🫠🫠 like sooooo cute. like a warm hug in a book. I knew from the first chapter i was gonna love it and it did not disappoint. It had everything, humour, warmth, a nice lil bit of angst.
Ever since that auction scene i knew.. this book was gonna be an absolute hoot!
This was unexpectedly swoony as well - i haven’t swooned this hard over a book in a while, there were so so so many scenes that had me giggling, kicking my feet, smiling. in particular “welcome home casper!” & the FTR garden patch 🥹🥹🥹
Astrid was my fav kind of character, i’ve got a thing for the quirky fmcs, if she’s a bit strange (affectionate) i’m gonna love her!!!! and Miss Astrid was hilariously weird in the best way.
“What did you do that was so bad?”
“I stole a statue. From a grump.”
She made me laugh out loud so many times. Jeremy was delightfully grumpy too! the perfect grumpy x sunshine couple indeed.
I loved the side characters, i loved the plot, i loved the prank war! i neeeed more of it all lol, i’m gonna read the other book in this world asap!🥳
This was so cute 🫠🫠 like sooooo cute. like a warm hug in a book. I knew from the first chapter i was gonna love it and it did not disappoint. It had everything, humour, warmth, a nice lil bit of angst.
Ever since that auction scene i knew.. this book was gonna be an absolute hoot!
This was unexpectedly swoony as well - i haven’t swooned this hard over a book in a while, there were so so so many scenes that had me giggling, kicking my feet, smiling. in particular “welcome home casper!” & the FTR garden patch 🥹🥹🥹
Astrid was my fav kind of character, i’ve got a thing for the quirky fmcs, if she’s a bit strange (affectionate) i’m gonna love her!!!! and Miss Astrid was hilariously weird in the best way.
“What did you do that was so bad?”
“I stole a statue. From a grump.”
She made me laugh out loud so many times. Jeremy was delightfully grumpy too! the perfect grumpy x sunshine couple indeed.
I loved the side characters, i loved the plot, i loved the prank war! i neeeed more of it all lol, i’m gonna read the other book in this world asap!🥳
September 4, 2025
Super funny, poignant, slow burn at its best.
October 10, 2024
I'm a sucker for grumpy/sunshine romances! And Jeremy was such a great grump with such a kind heart. Astrid was such a fun, quirky sunshine and I loved all the trouble she got herself into.
What more could you ask for? Prank wars, grumpy-sunshine, opposites attract, a protective hero, meddling family, character depth, and so much more! I was so intrigued by Astrid and Jeremy and loved how the author wrote the flow of the book to reveal their pasts and develop their characters. Jeremy and Astrid were so perfect together! I really enjoyed the push and pull of the slow burn. I loved watching Jeremy show his softer side to Astrid and their playful banter. He really kicked it up a notch as the story progressed and I didn't want it to end.
Muse develops her characters so well and has such a unique way of telling their story. She writes beautifully and I love getting introduced to new characters in her books!
What more could you ask for? Prank wars, grumpy-sunshine, opposites attract, a protective hero, meddling family, character depth, and so much more! I was so intrigued by Astrid and Jeremy and loved how the author wrote the flow of the book to reveal their pasts and develop their characters. Jeremy and Astrid were so perfect together! I really enjoyed the push and pull of the slow burn. I loved watching Jeremy show his softer side to Astrid and their playful banter. He really kicked it up a notch as the story progressed and I didn't want it to end.
Muse develops her characters so well and has such a unique way of telling their story. She writes beautifully and I love getting introduced to new characters in her books!
May 13, 2023
Y’all, this was every Grump/Sunshine lovers dream! This was my first book by Sydney and won’t be my last! If she writes it, I will read it!!!!
When Jeremy makes the winning bid on Astrid’s art therapy sessions at the Under the Stars charity auction, to save her from an ex-boyfriend, he didn’t realize he wouldn’t be able to get rid of her! And this wasn’t even the first time he had saved the little troublemaker! After a torturous art therapy session with the Quiet Grump of Ponderosa Falls, Astrid’s Camper Van (her home sweet home) breaks down, then if things couldn’t get any worse, a blizzard hits, stranding her at his cabin. Now she’s left to do the only thing she knows to balance out the tension between them, pull a full on prank war! But somewhere amidst the pranks she sees a different side to Jeremy that no one else has seen, while Jeremy finds himself falling for her. When the snow melts, will their game be over or will they call a truce and find their HEA?
I fell in love with Ponderosa Falls and didn’t want to leave! Sydney was so spunky with a touch of sass! I just loved her and her quirkiness!! Jeremy was the grump of all grumps, but deep down he’s all cinnamon roll!!! This book was just so cute and I knew after that auction scene it was only gonna get better!!
I laughed, smiled and swooned on repeat through the whole book!! It was so hard to put down and I found myself picking it back up when I had a spare moment! If you’re looking for a clean and swoony romance to keep you wanting more, then don’t miss this one!!!
Things I loved:
💜Enemies to Lovers
💜Forced Proximity
💜One bed
💜Grump/Sunshine
💜Banana French Toast
💜Ultimate Prank War!!! Y’all…trust me, it’s so good!!
💜The Reading Nook scene! 🥹
💜Dean and Raven!!
💜F.T.R Garden 🥹
💜”Welcome Home Casper” 🥹
💜Peppermint-Chicken water!😂
This was book 2 in the Ponderosa Falls series (there’s also a prequel novella)! I may have also heard there will be a book 3 coming in the near future 😉!!
Thank you @sydney_author for my arc copy! A positive review was not required! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
When Jeremy makes the winning bid on Astrid’s art therapy sessions at the Under the Stars charity auction, to save her from an ex-boyfriend, he didn’t realize he wouldn’t be able to get rid of her! And this wasn’t even the first time he had saved the little troublemaker! After a torturous art therapy session with the Quiet Grump of Ponderosa Falls, Astrid’s Camper Van (her home sweet home) breaks down, then if things couldn’t get any worse, a blizzard hits, stranding her at his cabin. Now she’s left to do the only thing she knows to balance out the tension between them, pull a full on prank war! But somewhere amidst the pranks she sees a different side to Jeremy that no one else has seen, while Jeremy finds himself falling for her. When the snow melts, will their game be over or will they call a truce and find their HEA?
I fell in love with Ponderosa Falls and didn’t want to leave! Sydney was so spunky with a touch of sass! I just loved her and her quirkiness!! Jeremy was the grump of all grumps, but deep down he’s all cinnamon roll!!! This book was just so cute and I knew after that auction scene it was only gonna get better!!
I laughed, smiled and swooned on repeat through the whole book!! It was so hard to put down and I found myself picking it back up when I had a spare moment! If you’re looking for a clean and swoony romance to keep you wanting more, then don’t miss this one!!!
Things I loved:
💜Enemies to Lovers
💜Forced Proximity
💜One bed
💜Grump/Sunshine
💜Banana French Toast
💜Ultimate Prank War!!! Y’all…trust me, it’s so good!!
💜The Reading Nook scene! 🥹
💜Dean and Raven!!
💜F.T.R Garden 🥹
💜”Welcome Home Casper” 🥹
💜Peppermint-Chicken water!😂
This was book 2 in the Ponderosa Falls series (there’s also a prequel novella)! I may have also heard there will be a book 3 coming in the near future 😉!!
Thank you @sydney_author for my arc copy! A positive review was not required! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
April 21, 2023
Astrid Bergstrom’s week couldn’t have started worse. After slipping into a store to hide from running into an ex-boyfriend, she finds out that her apartment building has flooded, and her ex-boyfriend doesn't seem to get the hint that she isn’t looking for a place to stay (especially when that place is his). Thankfully, a stranger stepped in, giving her time to slip away. As if it couldn’t be any worse, the camper van she has needs work. A lot of work. Even so, she’d rather take her old van than live on the street or, worse, in a lapse of judgment, give her ex a third chance. Jeremy Ward can’t seem to shake the woman at the hardware store from his mind, and suddenly, she ends up everywhere. She’s friends with his coworkers, who, under false pretenses, force him to attend a local charity auction where of course, she donates art therapy sessions. He couldn’t care less until one of his coworkers, whose also friends with her, mentions that the only other person bidding is her ex, and he can’t help but step up. Even if he doesn’t want anything to do with happy-go-lucky Astrid, her art therapy classes, and her ex-boyfriend's problems, he does the right thing for a good cause. Astrid, on the other hand, can’t seem to let go of Jeremy’s grumpy personality and is not letting him off easy. He paid for art therapy sessions, and he will get them even if it kills her trying. It seems to be going as well as it can be until she drives to Jeremy’s house in the camper van that she’s been living in, and they get snowed in. Will Jeremy open up to her, or will Astrid spend her days snowed in alone? What happens when secrets are revealed, will they be able to look at each other the same?
Falling Under can be read as a standalone but is also a part of the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort, an interconnected series. I am a huge fan of the Grump/Sunshine troupe, and this book did not disappoint! Astrid’s happiness and positivity are the perfect contrast to Jeremy’s seemingly introverted grumpiness. There was a lot in this book, plot-wise, that surprised me and made me feel deeply for the characters' struggles. Plus, adding an innocent or not-so-innocent, at times prank war, had me glued to the page. This book was great, and I highly recommend it.
* I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Falling Under can be read as a standalone but is also a part of the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort, an interconnected series. I am a huge fan of the Grump/Sunshine troupe, and this book did not disappoint! Astrid’s happiness and positivity are the perfect contrast to Jeremy’s seemingly introverted grumpiness. There was a lot in this book, plot-wise, that surprised me and made me feel deeply for the characters' struggles. Plus, adding an innocent or not-so-innocent, at times prank war, had me glued to the page. This book was great, and I highly recommend it.
* I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
April 27, 2023
Romance level: kissing 🔥
I love Jeremy! Since book 1, he was just a man in his own world. Not creating trouble, always helping others out & having very interesting scientific facts😂.
This mountain of a man was just the grumpy wilderness resort hiker. He's grumpy, follows his instincts, he's perceptive & kind, even if he has his own way of showing it.
I loved how complementary Jeremy & Astrid's personalities were. The nicknames they had for each other were so cute. These two were hilarious 😂 so bad & awkward that it was so good. Their little pranks were just a reflection of this!
Jeremy had a heart of gold. Astrid had so many things to figure out. Throughout the story you can see all of her traumas & flight instincts kicking in... But I was so happy to see her choosing to fight back.. choosing Jeremy.
Blanche was such a sweet character. I loved her relationship with Jeremy. They were just pure family & I loved to see him being so deeply cared about 🥇.
The slow burn was so well done. I wanted those two to get together already!! But the built up was done amazingly. I loved seeing them starting to trust each other.
The pace is a little quick, but for these two, it goes along well😭🥺. I love the small surprise in the epilogue! I just can't with Jeremy💜 He was the sweetest cinnamon roll underneath a grumpy exterior. I love how he would do anything for the people he loves.
I'm excited to see where this series leads. Can we please have a story for Dean? I just love him! & I can't wait to see how his romance develops 🐦⬛.
My favorite scenes:
😂Casper
🔥The modern-day Neanderthal situation
🍞The french toast😂
🛏️The one bed trope 😅
🛻 The truck scene🔥
🐿️
* I was kindly gifted an ARC from the author. This doesn't influence in any form my review/opinion of the book*
I love Jeremy! Since book 1, he was just a man in his own world. Not creating trouble, always helping others out & having very interesting scientific facts😂.
This mountain of a man was just the grumpy wilderness resort hiker. He's grumpy, follows his instincts, he's perceptive & kind, even if he has his own way of showing it.
I loved how complementary Jeremy & Astrid's personalities were. The nicknames they had for each other were so cute. These two were hilarious 😂 so bad & awkward that it was so good. Their little pranks were just a reflection of this!
Jeremy had a heart of gold. Astrid had so many things to figure out. Throughout the story you can see all of her traumas & flight instincts kicking in... But I was so happy to see her choosing to fight back.. choosing Jeremy.
Blanche was such a sweet character. I loved her relationship with Jeremy. They were just pure family & I loved to see him being so deeply cared about 🥇.
The slow burn was so well done. I wanted those two to get together already!! But the built up was done amazingly. I loved seeing them starting to trust each other.
The pace is a little quick, but for these two, it goes along well😭🥺. I love the small surprise in the epilogue! I just can't with Jeremy💜 He was the sweetest cinnamon roll underneath a grumpy exterior. I love how he would do anything for the people he loves.
I'm excited to see where this series leads. Can we please have a story for Dean? I just love him! & I can't wait to see how his romance develops 🐦⬛.
My favorite scenes:
😂Casper
🔥The modern-day Neanderthal situation
🍞The french toast😂
🛏️The one bed trope 😅
🛻 The truck scene🔥
🐿️
* I was kindly gifted an ARC from the author. This doesn't influence in any form my review/opinion of the book*
April 28, 2023
I really, REALLY loved this book. A new add to my favourites list. I want to give it all the stars. All. The. Stars. Apparently they’ll only allow five, so that will have to do. To be honest, I don’t think the book blurb does this story justice. There is so much more to it. This book is fun, funny, cute, and sweet. And even a little heartbreaking. Fantastic banter, great pranks, and more. I loved the characters so much. Jeremy and Astrid are so great. They felt real. Perfect Grumpy and Sunshine, but with more depth and nuance. I liked that, in spite of being the sunshine, Astrid has this cynical side to her too. And Jeremy is such a chivalrous and caring man hidden underneath his protective layer of grump. There is also an Enemies to Love element here, and after early antagonism, this manifests in a prank war that provides a little fun. But it’s not all fun and games. They both have some difficulties in their pasts that influence their openness (or lack thereof) to love. I so enjoyed their interactions and their journey. The side characters are really fun too. I read this book as a standalone and it totally works, but now I can’t wait to go back and read book one, and I am so here for any future books in the series and by this author. This book is so well done. Just wonderful. This is a clean and sweet romance. I loved it so much! You must read it! Thank me later.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 26, 2023
Something about a grumpy widower who’s secretly a cinnamon roll for the sunshine-y girl just gets me every time 🥹🫶🏻
Falling Under ❄️
➖rating: 5/5 ⭐️’s
➖spice level: closed door 🚪
Astrid is a sweet (albeit slightly chaotic 🤭) art therapist who’s committed to her philosophy that love will always end in heartbreak. On the other hand, Jeremy is a grumpy (and v closed off) widower who already experienced love and isn’t looking to find it again, especially not with the quirky art therapist who somehow keeps ending up in his orbit.
After a series of events (involving a hardware store, a charity auction, and an incident with a squirrel statue 🐿) leads to Astrid getting stranded at Jeremy’s cabin during a snowstorm, these two discover that maybe they’re just what the other one has needed all along 💓
If you’re looking for an incredibly sweet read with fairly low conflict and lots of laughs, then I def recommend checking this one out! It’s my favorite of Sydney’s so far and it was the perfect book to get me out of my reading slump 🥰 (also v excited for Raven’s story bc her bat-onesie-wearing self speaks to my spooky heart 🦇)
Thank you sm @sydney_author for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review!!
Falling Under ❄️
➖rating: 5/5 ⭐️’s
➖spice level: closed door 🚪
Astrid is a sweet (albeit slightly chaotic 🤭) art therapist who’s committed to her philosophy that love will always end in heartbreak. On the other hand, Jeremy is a grumpy (and v closed off) widower who already experienced love and isn’t looking to find it again, especially not with the quirky art therapist who somehow keeps ending up in his orbit.
After a series of events (involving a hardware store, a charity auction, and an incident with a squirrel statue 🐿) leads to Astrid getting stranded at Jeremy’s cabin during a snowstorm, these two discover that maybe they’re just what the other one has needed all along 💓
If you’re looking for an incredibly sweet read with fairly low conflict and lots of laughs, then I def recommend checking this one out! It’s my favorite of Sydney’s so far and it was the perfect book to get me out of my reading slump 🥰 (also v excited for Raven’s story bc her bat-onesie-wearing self speaks to my spooky heart 🦇)
Thank you sm @sydney_author for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review!!
April 29, 2023
I received a free copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving a review. This is book 2 of of the Ponderosa Falls Wilderness Resort series & it is a standalone. As of now, it's the best & my favorite of the series. The book's blurb gives you a good idea of what to expect. It's a great opposites attract dual pov aside from two chapters from told through two other characters pov romance.
Astrid is an artist who lives by a philosophy that she believes will ensure she won't be hurt in love. She's a sort of free spirit enjoying helping others with her art therapy. Jeremy is the kind of grump that likes to keep to himself & hold others at a distance. He's kind of mysterious & isn't interested in changing that. When a blizzard causes Astrid to be stranded at his cabin, they find themselves engaging in a prank war, becoming closer, & experiencing feelings that they weren't anticipating. However, Jeremy is aware of Astrid's views about love & will not allow himself to think he could convince her otherwise while Astrid has to decide if her views still uphold after spending time with Jeremy.
The romance is a clean & sweet slow burn & it was done well. You will enjoy seeing their feelings change as they really get to know each other. I loved how protective Jeremy was from the start & how Astrid brought Jeremy out of his shell that he built around himself. I loved that they could be their true selves around each other & were more similar than they thoughtin the way that they built walls around each other to protect themselves. The conflict didn't get heavy & there wasn't much of it. There isn't anything I can say I disliked about the book. It's a lovely read & I know others will fall in love with Jeremy & Astrid & their story.
Astrid is an artist who lives by a philosophy that she believes will ensure she won't be hurt in love. She's a sort of free spirit enjoying helping others with her art therapy. Jeremy is the kind of grump that likes to keep to himself & hold others at a distance. He's kind of mysterious & isn't interested in changing that. When a blizzard causes Astrid to be stranded at his cabin, they find themselves engaging in a prank war, becoming closer, & experiencing feelings that they weren't anticipating. However, Jeremy is aware of Astrid's views about love & will not allow himself to think he could convince her otherwise while Astrid has to decide if her views still uphold after spending time with Jeremy.
The romance is a clean & sweet slow burn & it was done well. You will enjoy seeing their feelings change as they really get to know each other. I loved how protective Jeremy was from the start & how Astrid brought Jeremy out of his shell that he built around himself. I loved that they could be their true selves around each other & were more similar than they thought
May 1, 2023
This fun, sweet and clean romantic comedy was a delight to read. With my favorite tropes, enemies to lovers & sunshine vs grump, and a fun take on the stranded in a cabin in a snowstorm, Muse has created a wonderful story that was refreshing and romantic. Astrid is stranded in her camper van and is stranded in Jeremy’s cabin. But all is not Insta-Love with this pair. He is a widower who is certain will live his life solo while Astrid is an bubbly art therapist and a real people person. So how do these two different people find a way to pass the time - a prank war of course which leads to some of the best comic humor and jokes of the book. This was a fun book that really hooked me and I cannot wait to see where the next book goes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 17, 2023
What can I say about this book. I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy and this is my honest opinion. This is the second in the Pondarosa series we meet Jeremy and Astrid. Jeremy is your typical grumpy guy who doesn't seem to mix well with others, but is a great outdoors person. Astrid is art therapist who has secrets of her own and trying to build a new life of her own. She has a really bad relationship history her philosophy is never fall for a guy. The book takes us on their journey and the ups and downs they have along the way. If you enjoy a story of growth and understanding this book certainly has it all. I throughly enjoyed it and certainly cant wait for the next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 22, 2023
This excellent romantic comedy gave the reader all the feelings, fun and the fears that the two main characters, Astrid and Jeremy, possessed!
So loved the quirk in Astrid’s personality where she gives into doing something that she hasn’t attempted since she was ten years old and begins a whole chain of events with a wonderful conclusion!
Falling Under made this reader’s heart race, bite nails incase the characters were going to make wrong choices, caused laughter to bubble up at Astrid and Jeremy’s antics at his cabin and sighed deeply at their close and tender moments!
Truly lovely piece of writing! Highly recommended!
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy and my own opinion is given voluntarily.
So loved the quirk in Astrid’s personality where she gives into doing something that she hasn’t attempted since she was ten years old and begins a whole chain of events with a wonderful conclusion!
Falling Under made this reader’s heart race, bite nails incase the characters were going to make wrong choices, caused laughter to bubble up at Astrid and Jeremy’s antics at his cabin and sighed deeply at their close and tender moments!
Truly lovely piece of writing! Highly recommended!
Received this as an Advanced Reader Copy and my own opinion is given voluntarily.
April 23, 2023
Such a sweet and on the same time hilarious clean romcom! 😍❤️
Astrid is a Swedish Art therapist living in USA and believing in a moto, that she can’t love someone more than he loves her.
Jeremy is a town grump who closed himself from the world but had a heart of gold.
None of them was looking for love but fate and snow blitz have planes of their own….
I enjoyed this book very much, especially: the banter, prank war, meddling mother in law and the fact that she is his troublemaker and he is her yeti! 🥹
The writing style, attention to details and the fact that characters feel so real - made sure that even though it is my first book by Sydney Muse, it definitely won’t be the last 😍
Looking forward to Raven and Dean’s story 🤭
Astrid is a Swedish Art therapist living in USA and believing in a moto, that she can’t love someone more than he loves her.
Jeremy is a town grump who closed himself from the world but had a heart of gold.
None of them was looking for love but fate and snow blitz have planes of their own….
I enjoyed this book very much, especially: the banter, prank war, meddling mother in law and the fact that she is his troublemaker and he is her yeti! 🥹
The writing style, attention to details and the fact that characters feel so real - made sure that even though it is my first book by Sydney Muse, it definitely won’t be the last 😍
Looking forward to Raven and Dean’s story 🤭
April 24, 2023
Grump/Sunshine is one of my all-time favorite tropes and this book absolutely got it right.
Jeremy was every bit the grump, closed off snd happy to live his life alone, until Astrid comes along. I loved watching him show up for Astrid and take care of her when they got snowed in.
Astrid was so unpredictable in the best way, her pranks were so bad it made her more endearing, I can see why they made Jeremy laugh.
I love a love story that happens fast and unexpectedly. This books is filled with plenty of swoony, flirty moments and hilarious laugh out loud lines. If you love a good grump/sunshine love story then you’ll love this book!
I received an advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Jeremy was every bit the grump, closed off snd happy to live his life alone, until Astrid comes along. I loved watching him show up for Astrid and take care of her when they got snowed in.
Astrid was so unpredictable in the best way, her pranks were so bad it made her more endearing, I can see why they made Jeremy laugh.
I love a love story that happens fast and unexpectedly. This books is filled with plenty of swoony, flirty moments and hilarious laugh out loud lines. If you love a good grump/sunshine love story then you’ll love this book!
I received an advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
April 21, 2023
first of all, thank you author Sydney Muse for the arc copy! this book was incredible. it is the first in the series i have read, and now i am certainly going to read the others soon. the tropes in this one are grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, and small town romance. i loved this book so much and i cannot wait to read the others. Jeremy and Astrid are two stubborn people who are perfect for each other. the prank war and the tension between them every time they accidentally showed they cared, ahh! this book was so swoony and amazing, i absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a sweet romance to read. 🥰
April 30, 2023
In “Falling Under,” Sydney Muse’s quick humor grabs your attention right from the start. —
*She was a “very nice bulldozer. Breaking people down with kindness was her calling in life, her gift.“
*”The woman had tried to Mission Impossible her way down the paint aisle..”
*“It was like hitting a wall…Then the wall cleared its throat.” A man-wall.
Then there’s the great banter and crazy prank war between the Troublemaker and the Yeti. So fun!!
I received this book as an eARC for my honest opinion. I thoroughly enjoyed it, would definitely recommend it, and I’m looking forward to reading more from this talented author.
*She was a “very nice bulldozer. Breaking people down with kindness was her calling in life, her gift.“
*”The woman had tried to Mission Impossible her way down the paint aisle..”
*“It was like hitting a wall…Then the wall cleared its throat.” A man-wall.
Then there’s the great banter and crazy prank war between the Troublemaker and the Yeti. So fun!!
I received this book as an eARC for my honest opinion. I thoroughly enjoyed it, would definitely recommend it, and I’m looking forward to reading more from this talented author.
April 22, 2023
What a cozy, delightful story! Astrid is such a fun, spunky character who is bound to catch your attention. She's got a big personality, but not in an obnoxious way. Jeremy just wants to be left alone, but it becomes impossible when he and Astrid get snowed in at his cozy cabin in the woods.
This book is delightful and had me wanting to keep reading from the get-go. There's a lot of prank wars going on, which made me laugh often.
Favorite quote:"Everybody knows nothing is real until you say it in Swedish"
Thank you Sydney Muse for the ARC. I loved it!
This book is delightful and had me wanting to keep reading from the get-go. There's a lot of prank wars going on, which made me laugh often.
Favorite quote:"Everybody knows nothing is real until you say it in Swedish"
Thank you Sydney Muse for the ARC. I loved it!
April 21, 2023
Loved this fun and delightful story! Kept me waiting with anticipation of what they'll do to each other next! One man can turn this sad girl's life into a dream come true!
Thanks to the author for providing this book for my honest review!
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Inspirational Page-turner Witty Happily Ever After Wonderful characters Romantic Original Entertaining Easy-to-read Funny Realistic Unpredictable Whimsical
Thanks to the author for providing this book for my honest review!
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Inspirational Page-turner Witty Happily Ever After Wonderful characters Romantic Original Entertaining Easy-to-read Funny Realistic Unpredictable Whimsical
May 19, 2023
Swedes
What a great story. I don't think I've ever read a romance book about a Swedish girl before. I found Astrid to be very authentic. Her special skill set was awesome. She was such a likable character. I also really liked Jeremy. He was so incredibly kind and sweet, even though he tried so hard not to be. I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to the other book in this series and the next one. It's very well written. The story really flows.
What a great story. I don't think I've ever read a romance book about a Swedish girl before. I found Astrid to be very authentic. Her special skill set was awesome. She was such a likable character. I also really liked Jeremy. He was so incredibly kind and sweet, even though he tried so hard not to be. I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to the other book in this series and the next one. It's very well written. The story really flows.
May 19, 2023
I liked so much about this book! The characters and the story. I am going to read the first next. I loved the second half of this story so much, I would have given that 5 stars! The first half was fun but the grumpy side of our amazing leading man lasted a little too long. The set up and build up were well done by the time they were in love so was I.
Lots of sweet moments and good kisses. No swearing or alcohol or religion.
Lots of sweet moments and good kisses. No swearing or alcohol or religion.
April 15, 2023
This is such a lovely romantic comedy! I absolutely loved it! I went totally head-over-heels for sweet grumpy Jeremy.. This couple is so adorable when they start playing pranks on each other.. Please let me have a ton of this sweet and emotional series!!. So funny!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 22, 2023
Note: this is book 2 in the series and can be read as a standalone.
This is such a sweet contemporary novel. The two main characters are absolutely wonderful, and the side characters are a hoot.
The FMC is cooky, lovable, and just a little scared of love. The MMC is a grumpy tender-hearted cinnamon roll giant who is just a little scared to fall again. These two characters balance each other so well!
This is a clean contemporary romance that is filled with sweet moments, heartbreaking pasts, hilarious pranks and a beautiful happily ever after.
This book is the kind of wonderful romance that warms the soul. It is a lovely light read that you’ll enjoy so much the ending sneaks up on you unexpectedly (but it’s okay, because it’s a happy one!)
Thank you to Sydney Muse for having me on the ARC team for this wonderful read!
This is such a sweet contemporary novel. The two main characters are absolutely wonderful, and the side characters are a hoot.
The FMC is cooky, lovable, and just a little scared of love. The MMC is a grumpy tender-hearted cinnamon roll giant who is just a little scared to fall again. These two characters balance each other so well!
This is a clean contemporary romance that is filled with sweet moments, heartbreaking pasts, hilarious pranks and a beautiful happily ever after.
This book is the kind of wonderful romance that warms the soul. It is a lovely light read that you’ll enjoy so much the ending sneaks up on you unexpectedly (but it’s okay, because it’s a happy one!)
Thank you to Sydney Muse for having me on the ARC team for this wonderful read!
April 20, 2023
I am not a fan of third person point of view. I actually stay far away from them. Something though told me to keep going and I'm glad I did. Astrid has major daddy issues, and Jeremy already had love once but after a blizzard they finally figured out all the ever needed to know. "Sometimes it takes a while to find the right one, but he's always worth the wait"
April 26, 2023
Falling Under by Sydney Muse was a delightful book in every way. The main characters were fascinating and their journey to love was just the kind I like...enemies to lovers, protesting almost all the way to the HEA. The story was compelling and so well written. I can't wait to go back and read the first book in the series and the prequel. I found a new favorite author tonight!
April 26, 2023
Jeremy is enough to make any girl melt into a puddle. Even if you’re a complete stranger, he’s mad at you, or you just pulled a prank on him he’ll stand by you, protect you, and rescue you. I loved the tender moments where we got to see the teddy bear side of the grumpy “yeti.” I couldn’t put this book down.
December 25, 2023
Oh my goodness! Can this series get any better? This book had me swooning, cringing and in stitches!
I loved Jeremy! He was such a grump but boy, what a tender, tender man! And romantic!
And what can I say about Astrid? She avoids love but unknowingly, runs headlong into it.
The side characters were wonderful, as well and the story was a page turner.
I loved Jeremy! He was such a grump but boy, what a tender, tender man! And romantic!
And what can I say about Astrid? She avoids love but unknowingly, runs headlong into it.
The side characters were wonderful, as well and the story was a page turner.
March 3, 2024
This book was awesome. Astrid and Jeremy hated each other at first and they didn’t even know why. But they also couldn’t stop finding themselves around each other. Then they got snowed in and that’s when the real fun began. Although they are both terrible at pranking it was still fun. It’s a fun read with lots of tension but it’s worth the wait!
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