This book was sweet. Started out rough as Shay was in a plane crash where literally everyone died except 11 people including her. She luckily survived. At a support group meeting she meets the beautiful Piper, who it turns out, lost her fiancée and best friend, whom Shay had been sitting next to during the flight. Shay and Piper become friends. Then they become more then friends. This book has a lot of emotions in it because of Piper's loss and how Piper and Shay met. The author does a great job describing all the emotions that both Shay and Piper are going through in the aftermath of the plane crash and their losses and how they find each other. A beautiful love story. Thanks to NG for the ARC!!

Wow! I knew I wanted to read Falling by Kris Bryant when I heard about the book several months ago. Ms. Bryant is an exceptional author, so I had high hopes that this would be a really good story. I am very pleased to tell you that this novel has exceeded all of my expectations.
The story is told in first person narrative which makes the beginning even more compelling and terrifying since you will experience a major plane crash through the eyes and other senses of the main character, Shaylie Beck. This tragic accident changes not only Shaylie’s life but those around her as well. It also leads her to meet Piper Cole. Piper lost loved ones in the crash as well. Shaylie, her best friend Marisa, Jason (the man who pulled Shaylie out of the plane wreckage), and Piper meet at a survivors group therapy session. This leads to all of them forming a friendship and then maybe more as the story continues. There is a secret that Shaylie keeps from Piper though, and this secret could end up causing a lot of heartache.
Ms. Bryant is changing my view of first person narrative. I normally don’t like to read this POV because it can be limiting. It is a hard narrative to write in, but Ms. Bryant is an expert and gives the reader everything they need through Shaylie. This novel could be used as a textbook example on how to write in this point of view.
Falling is one of the best stories I’ve read so far this year and is definitely going into my favorites folder. It is a wonderful and heartwarming story that you really do not want to miss.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.

Kris Bryant knocks it out of the park with her latest work, Falling. Shaylie Beck is one of only 11 people who survive a plane crash. During one of the information sessions after the crash, Shaylie meets Piper Cole, a yoga instructor whose fiancee and best friend both died in the crash. The story covers how these two women become friends and much more.

I loved the character development in the book and the difficult feelings that were involved. I can't imagine what something like surviving a plane crash would be like or how I would react to others who lost loved ones while I was still alive. This story kicks things up a notch by introducing attraction and love into that mix of emotions. The sex scenes are HOT and are definitely worth reading for.

It is a very enjoyable read that I am sure I will come back to. I look forward to an audiobook version, hopefully in the near future.

'ARC provided by both NetGalley and The Publisher in exchange for an honest review'

**'Great dialogue has transparency.Something is being said while something else is being felt..Sentences are not different enough to hold the attention of readers unless they are dramatic..'

Kris Bryant takes readers on a meandering journey in 'FALLING' which is written with a gentle tenderness and empathy -- though perhaps it is this tenderness borne from her mission to really emphasize on the personal growth of each character after the plane crash. It felt like there was an awareness of this author's connection to the story because it was evident in the depth and intimacy that resonates within it. Some readers might notice that certain parts of a few chapters seems a bit like some carefully constructed narrative of an introspective to being traumatize then having the choice of being truthful to the person you Love because the course of true Love never runs smoothly.
Though the storyline reads with a certain rhythm and felt almost like being in the turbulence which led to the crash -- even while getting different snapshots of everything that Shaylie was enduring, it might help readers to become entrenched with the storytelling from beginning to end.
Shaylie did wrestle with that overwhelming after-effect of being depress and traumatize, even dealing with that burden of survivor's guilt and the complexities of her memories -- then eventually feeling better as the storyline progresses. She also finds herself learning how not only to be accepting of being alive but to thrive -- making lots of positive changes in her life, letting her heart be open to falling in Love and be prideful at watching her best friend (Marisa) finally find Love.
There's also a paean of independence pertaining to both the main and secondary characters, of self-reliance and then that searing quiet comfort of living honestly while being in Love as a family.

Ultimately, with a feeling of warmth,a little humor and the graphic,evocative details of the plane crash, those remote picturesque towns in Denver, those ever growing friendships (from acquaintances to relationships) and some characters's daily struggles vividly to life, I do think that 'FALLING' can be viewed as somewhat as a heartwarming,Love story that involves two very close friends (Shaylie & Marisa) finding joy,peace and that overpowering kinda Love for others (Piper & Jason)
Recommended book!

This is one of the most sensuous covers we’ve ever seen. The cover is enough to draw you to reading it – and the book lives up to expectation. Not overly sexual, but with a very nice blend of emotion and attraction, this is a one-sitting read.

Shaylie Beck, a realtor, suddenly becomes a statistic – a survivor in a plane crash. She attends a support group meeting for other survivors and family/friends of the crash victims. One of the other attendees is Piper Cole who has lost both, her fiancée and her best friend in the crash. During the meeting, Shaylie mentions her seat number. Piper finds her at the end of the meeting and says the two people she lost were in the same row and asks whether Shaylie would mind talking to her. Thus starts their relationship: Piper is struggling to come to terms with her loss and seeks Shaylie.

Though narrated in first person in Shaylie’s voice, we get to know both the MCs really well and are able to truly empathise with both. In addition to the two lovely ladies, there is a clutch of really nice supporting characters and really heart-warming relationships amongst many of them. And always a big plus: great sex.

This is so recommended.

Netgally Review:

Falling was very enjoyable. The plot was interesting and hit on multiple genres, well! The characters were sweet and there was just the right amount of angst. I spent most of the book waiting for the other shoe to drop but not in the way I sometimes do, distracted by what some characters know or don't know. All and all a solid 4 stars

Ok, so, um, yeah... a Must read. Great story and powerful characters. I couldn't put this book down. The first chapter had the emotions rolling and I just had to keep going. I don't know what more to say other than, "I highly recommend".

I’m always excited when I see a book available by Kris Bryant. I’ve never been disappointed. She tells a story from only one characters POV, in this case Shaylie’s, which is my favorite. I also loved how it got right into the place crash, so there was never a slow moment. It got right into the action!

My one cringe about the book was that Piper was engaged after only 6 months of dating. It made her seem like a weirdo to me. I know this happens enough in real life, but it’s a red flag of CRAZY in my mind.

Overall it was a cute story. I probably won’t read it again because it didn’t have a storyline that I was enthralled with, but it was basically the perfect vacation romance book.

This book is just exceptional.
Shaylie has just survived a plane crash. She’s a little bit broken in places and she’ll heal but it’s shaken her life. In an attempt to get back to some normality, she meets Piper during a support group for survivors. Piper lost her best friend and her fiancée in the plane crash and she needs answers. Piper and Shaylie become fast friends and help each other heal. Shaylie begins to fall for Piper and the more time she spends with her she knows this woman could be the one...

I’m getting this feeling writing up this review. This story is extraordinary. I cried my way through it and it’s the best book Kris Bryant has ever written but it’s now my favourite Lesbian Fiction Book... Ever!
The pace of the book was perfect. The first chapter gave me chills as we enter the book just minutes before the crash. Kris Bryant’s descriptions during this scene were outstanding and boy did they cement my focus on the book. Next minute I knew, I was at the end and you certainly could see the track marks of my tears.

When it comes to characters Piper and Shaylie are soul mates. They just complement each other in every way and it’s just circumstance that they meet the way they do. I believe in my heart they would have met no matter what. The chemistry they have when they finally get together (this is a romance and Kris Bryant, we all know it happens) was palpable. I could feel it sizzling of the page.

The sex scenes blew my mind. There is one in particular that I think is Kris Bryant’s best ever sex scene. It was really well described and the actual scene was sexy, and hot as hell.

I can’t finish the review of this book without mentioning the epilogue because it’s everything. I have a tightening in my chest just thinking about how magical it was. If there was ever a book that finished with me knowing these protagonists not only make it but live happy ever after, this is the one.

A complete triumph and I know I haven’t done this book justice in the review but how could I when it’s my perfect book. Buy this book and make your heart happy people... it’s a must read!
An outstanding 5 stars

‘Falling’ is a slow-burn romance that starts with the extremely stressful situation of a plane crash. The author herself says that she is afraid of flying and came up with the idea of writing this novel based on the premise that the best can come out of the worst circumstances. Ms. Bryant is really good at choosing one-word book titles that can catch readers’ attention and this is no exception. ‘Falling’ conveys not only the plane crash but also falling apart and falling in love. This novel deals with all of them.

This book is written in first person as it’s usual for this author, in this case, from the point of view of Shaylie. That gives the reader a prime seat to her process of falling, literally and metaphorically. However, compared to Ms. Bryant’s previous book ‘Listen’, this novel focuses more on the good aspects of Shaylie’s recovery process rather than the post-traumatic consequences of her accident. On the other hand, with this single point of view, it’s hard to understand what is going on with Piper and how she is dealing with her loss. Hence, her actions might feel a bit out of character and unpredictable.

This is mainly a romance and its feel-good aspects. As a Yoga enthusiast, I loved the description of its healing powers. The cast of secondary characters and the m/f romantic subplot also help in bringing up the good in humanity. It might feel too sweet at times but it works well with the main feel-good premise of the book.

Overall, a very good slow-burn romance about falling apart and falling in love. 4 stars.

ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com

First off, I'll read anything from Kris Bryant, that’s for sure. So when the blurb of her latest novel, "Falling," came out, I couldn't wait to read it, obvs, not just because it’s Bryant, but the book’s subject matter! And then that aesthetically photographed cover....Let's just say that's prolly the first-ever book cover featuring a photo of a model as its focal point that caught my full attention. There's just something about it - which I have me own interpretation about it in relation to the title and what the content of the story represented ultimately. But I won't bore you to tears with me endless gobbin' about it here. Except for one word: Acquiescence. Take it however you want. Speaking of the title - I like to play on words, see. A plane "falling" out of the sky. A survivor "falling" for the grieving fiancée of one of the crash victims. "Falling" from grace due to a secret. A premise ripe for an inside look into the journey of survival, second chance at life and second chance at love between two people, I'd say. Needless to say, I finished the book in one short sitting.

The first chapter literally jolted my senses to a point where I was hanging on to every word Bryant used as her tale-weaving took me to an intense, adrenaline-filled, thrilling ride from the moment Shaylie, the main character, stepped into the plane's lavatory to the plane falling from the sky and crashed. Not-to-be-missed moment! Riveting!

As usual, Bryant's brilliant portrayal of two people falling into each other - in desire, passion, and love through intimacy was characterised with resonating effect. Shaylie and Piper's connection, their physical and emotional intimacy as their relationship became more prevalent was utterly palpable through Bryant's knack for bringing passion/desire-filled words to life! I loved every moment that Shaylie and Piper shared together, particularly their interactions. There was one particular moment involving the word, "heartbeat," that transformed into something utterly sensual, emotional, heartwarming, affecting. Gosh, you really need to hear the passages recited in your mind related to the hypnotic heartbeat sounds of of the heart as you read them in order to get that deep, resonating effect! Just shows how Bryant always so effectively manipulates words to create expressions of love, desire, passion for her characters that translate into deep resonance in the heart and soul of the reader is a skill that I cherish every time I read her books.

All in all, I really enjoyed the story of second chance at life and romance between Shaylie and Piper. Instead of delving into the psychological intricacies of their post-traumatic experiences, Bryant opted to focus on the bright side of romance, of love and life, giving us a pure, sweet, untainted (from the dark side of trauma and loss) love story between two unlikely souls through the journey of one very lucky survivor. I was delighted with their happy ending already but Bryant injected an extra dose of happiness, joy and everlasting love with an epilogue that would put to rest any question about Shaylie and Piper's future as a loving couple. I'd recommend this to all who love romance through and through. A lovely, nevermind entertaining read for me, obvs! Another good one in the bag, Bryant! Well done!

*An ARC copy of this book was given to me by the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

Sometimes you come across a book when all you can say is “Wow”. This is how I felt about Kris Bryant’s new book Falling. The 4 main characters met because of a plane crash. They bonded because of the crash and fell in love because of the crash. This is the best writing I have ever seen from Kris Bryant. The 1st chapter just sucked me in. It was raw and compelling. Ms. Bryant portrayed all of the terror and raw emotion that Shaylie felt before the plane crashed and how her world has been altered by this life changing event. Shaylie meets Piper at a survivors support group and become friends then lovers. The sparks fly. Piper and Shaylie are red hot. Some of the best love scenes Kris has ever written. The last couple of chapters are fabulous. Make sure you have lots of kleenex.

I loved the premise of this story. Plane crash survivor meets grieving fiancé. I enjoyed watching the relationship between Shaylie and Piper grow and develop, both taking baby steps to allow the other to process their grief and recovery. The secondary characters and best friends, Marisa and Jason made a nice counterpoint to the starring couple.

So why the average rating?The events following the dramatic opening scenes felt repetitive with little plot development. Everyone was so nice. Lack of conflict, even during the expected breakup portion of the romance dulled what little heat the couple generated. The epilogue was over the top saccharine sweet.

Readers who love their HEA’s with whipped cream and a cherry on top will enjoy this read. It was too sweet for this old bird.

ARC received from publisher via NetGalley for review.

Kris Bryant is one of my favorite authors! I have loved every one of her books. When I read the synopsis of this book I was super excited. The book hooked the reader from the start. Kris did a wonderful job describing the action as well as the aftermath. The “romance” between Shaylie and Piper seemed a bit forced. Don’t get me wrong, it was good, but I never felt a sizzle between them. I did, however, feel the sizzle between Marisa and Jason quite a bit. Overall this was an entertaining book with an interesting plot.

I feel that Bryant really steeped outside the box with this one, I feel that It’s some of her best work yet. From the very first chapter your drawn into the life of Shaylie Beck with a tragedy that sets up the whole storyline. The first chapter left me speechless and I knew there was no going back as I immersed myself into the story. There was so much chemistry between the two MC’s that I felt it with every turn of the page, and don’t let me forget the hotness of the sexy times not just hotness but i could actually feel the raw emotions between Shaylie and Piper when they finally came together. Not only did Bryant write an amazingly beautiful story between two characters that tug at your heartstrings she also gave us the best HEA that left me filled with every emotion I had to stop and wait for my heart to slowly return back to normal.

I was given and ARC through Netgally for an honest review

The premise for Falling really drew me in. I don't have a fear of flying but every single time I go through a takeoff, I hold my breath. Not my favorite thing when the plane goes at breakneck speed and launches itself into the air. Totally just shuddered. This book has so many emotions running through it. The beginning is intense and gripping. There is sorrow, pain, doubt but there is also the sweetest romance. This book is by far Kris Bryant's best work. She nailed every aspect of this book and it is every bit worth the 5 stars of this review.

When we meet Shaylie Beck she is having a crappy day. A long meeting, late flight, sucky seatmates that spend hours making out but she is almost home. Almost. Shaylie takes a last minute bathroom break before the plane begins to descend. That is when all hell really breaks loose. You got it, worst nightmare moments as the plane begins to break apart and head for a crash landing in the forest of Colorado. Shaylie is one of the few survivors.

Piper Cole isn't on the plane, but her heart is. Her fiance and best friend/business partner are flying home from a business meeting in New York. She lost everything that night when the plane went down. Devastated and alone, Piper trudges on with work as Yoga studio owner but she wants answers as to why the plane went down.

Piper and Shaylie meet in grief counseling and immediately strike up an easy friendship. They become a lifeline for each other. Piper is processing her sadness and pain while Shaylie is going through survivors guilt and learning how to really live. Don't think this book is the ultimate bummer because it is anything but. While you do witness all their emotions they are both amazing characters that really become endeared to your heart. I absolutely adored their friendship and rooted for the romance the whole time. The supporting characters that are in this book are also written marvelously and really make the book extra special.

This is a story you don't want to pass on. A fabulous read that you will have a hard time putting down. Maybe don't read it as you board your plane though. This is an easy 5 stars!

Hmmm... This book started awesome! It had every predisposition being so great, that I feel slightly disappointed it hasn't been. I loved its start, and its plot, and I loved both characters, but what it bothered me most is that half the book we practically only see and feel Shaylie pining for Piper, while any description of Piper brought only her physical apperance during that first half. Their getting together didn't seem very spontaneous to me because I hadn't felt Piper's attraction to Shaylie, so it seemed rushed.

Bloody, frickin', amazing balls, fantastic.

Kris Bryant has outdone herself in these here pages. This is one of the most compelling stories I've read in a very long time. From the first page, my heart was in my throat.

I came to care deeply for both leads. They are three dimensional women who jumped off the pages and into my heart.

What seems to be a pre-requirement in lesfic reared its ugly head around the 80% mark. However, rather than piss me off as the troupe tends to do, it didn't bother me one iota. Why? Because unlike other books, it didn't feel forced. The emotion was raw and totally fitting considering what both have been through, separately and together.

Rather than continue to ramble, I'll end by saying go grab a copy. I highly doubt you'll be disappointed.

Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Book, via NetGalley

There is something in this book that does not fit and I do not know if I will be able to explain it or do it without spoiling the content. I think Shaylie is a character with little coherence and I did not really warm to her. Even with her terrible experience and with her work issues,  I couldn't stop thinking about how and when the secret she kept from Piper was going to cause a major problem to their relationship. Piper is not quite interesting either, the story hints some situations that  seem apparent enough about her fiancee. She did not realize what was happening in front of her nose, but now she doesn't want to see the obvious either. About the secondary characters, I've been more interested in Jason and Marisa story than Piper and Sahylie's. And even the sex parts have not been enough for make my impression higher. So, my final impression is only ok, a story with potential but not enough interesting for me.

If you were to judge the book by the cover, Falling would sizzle you on contact. It’s gorgeous, angsty, and sublimely sexy. Once you open it and start turning pages you come to realize this book mirrors that unquenchable perfection. In fact, Falling is one of my favorite kind of books. You forget you’re reading a book and become immersed in the story, their story, as if you’re walking through the best kind of dream. The drama surrounding their romance is laced with an edge of desperation that bursts right from the first chapter as you hang with Shaylie on that precipice of terror when the plane plunges to the ground. You feel it again when Shaylie realizes she’s fallen for the one person she knows she shouldn’t. It’s a good thing she has unwavering support from inspiring secondary characters that blend colorful layers to this marvelous story. Shaylie’s transformation as a human being in the aftermath of gruesome destruction is the penultimate culmination of their journey together through the uncertainty and tears. The Epilogue became the celebration of that journey, but oh my, the journey is so worth it.