I really enjoyed this friends to lovers, forbidden romance that saw a social media saavy stylist helping an introverted doctor try to find love. This had great banter, lots of emotional depth and was great on audio. While I don't think it was my favorite by the author it was still very enjoyable. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio and digital copy in exchange for my honest review.

4.25⭐
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Setting ~ Oklahoma
Publication date ~ August 19, 2025
Publisher ~ Montlake & Brilliance Audio
Est Page Count ~ 312 (33 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 18 minutes
Narrator ~ Ann Marie Gideon
POV ~ dual 3rd
Featuring ~ best friends brother, sisters best friend, forced proximity, slow burn, no steamage

Carly & Brooks
Carly is a full time accountant, but her passion is personal styling, which she does on the side. In order to make that a full time gig she needs to come up with an awesome proposal that will wow her boss. It just so happens that her bff, Sasha's, fashion magazine needs a boost, too, so they team up to get more exposure for both of them.

Brooks is not too keen on being the new face of his sister's magazine by way of going out of date after date after date that will be broadcasted for all readers, but he'd do anything for his sister's so he's reluctantly in. He was so sweet and I especially loved his relationship with his old HS coach.

I don't love when there are other women/men drama in my romance, but it's the whole point of the plot, so I guess it's okay.

Overall, this was caauuutttteeee, then not so much for a hot minute, then caauuutttteeee again. Both characters were relatable, they had good banter and chemistry. And how adorable was that epilogue??

Narration notes:
One female narrator 😐, sounded fine, though

Have you ever wondered about specific cross over in beloved shows? Well falling into place by Allison Ashley, feels like the perfect crossover of a young Carrie Bradshaw from sex in the city, meets young McDreamy from Greys Anatomy.

Brooks is a first year resident. Recluse and antisocial. Till his sisters bring to him a pitch. A written series about a bachelor looking for love, to save their mom’s magazine.

With brooks being the hermit he is, and spending most his time in scrubs. He’s sister line up a professional stylist… who also happens to be his little sister’s best friends since high school, Carly.

Carly, is blunt, open and straightforward. Someone who loves a good night out, mix with a few cozy nights in.

The ying and yang opposite dynamic these two brought to the store was brilliant! I loved every single second of it. Especially the honest moments where the characters could find trust and open up to the other from the past. It is a true tale of right person, right time.
.
The narrators of this one were amazingly captivating for the story being told. I loved Carly voice actor, her tones and pitch were spot on for the character. Everything I would’ve chosen, myself!
.
Troupes include;
- Witty banter
- Sisters Best Friend
- Forbidden Romance
- Forced Proximity
- Cute cats in sweaters
.
Thank you NetGalley and Brilliant Publishing for the chance to read and review this Audio Book.

Carly Porter has spent her life playing it safe. Growing up as the daughter of a compulsive gambler taught her the personal cost of risky bets, so she’s built a life of security and careful choices. But when her best friend Sasha—publisher of a struggling fashion magazine—offers her a chance to step into her dream career as a full-time personal stylist, Carly is tempted. The catch? The high-profile makeover project is Sasha’s older brother, Brooks, a reclusive, work-focused physician still carrying the weight of a devastating loss.

Carly remembers Brooks from high school—first as the boy who had it all together, then as the one who lost his way in the wake of tragedy. Now, her job is to coax him out of his well-worn scrubs and into the spotlight, giving him not only a fresh wardrobe but maybe a fresh start. As the project unfolds, their connection deepens, blurring the lines between professional and personal. But taking a chance on love might be the biggest risk either of them has ever faced.

This was my first book by Allison Ashley, and it turned out to be a lovely friends-to-lovers romance. I really enjoyed the banter between Carly and Brooks, especially the playful debates over a certain well-loved pair of jeans. Their relationship growth felt natural and heartfelt, and I appreciated how both characters handled adversity—not as perfect people, but as ones willing to work through it together. I also liked how the story didn’t shy away from the realities of long-distance relationships, showing how they navigated it while still supporting Carly’s career goals.

The Narration:

I listened to the audiobook narrated by Ann Marie Gideon, whose warm tone and expressive delivery were a perfect match for the story. Her narration added an extra layer of charm, making the listening experience even more engaging. If you enjoy audiobooks, I’d happily recommend this format.

Final Thoughts:

Falling Into Place is a story about second chances, personal growth, and the courage it takes to gamble on love—and in this case, the risk pays off beautifully.

I received an ARC of this audiobook from the publisher but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

This one was so cute. I enjoyed the characters. The multiple POV were done very well, the book flowed smoothly. The banter and chemistry was really well done - it felt authentic, like reading a friend's diary, not like watching my favorite rom com. I liked the growth that the characters made separately and together. The middle of the book was a little slower than I would have liked, but I loved the beginning and the end. I thought it was just a really cute story. There were some difficult parts and pasts to get through, but I thought that they were handled well. Not too much focus on the dark spots, but also gave them enough attention to address the seriousness. Carly finds herself working with her best friend, Sasha, doing a makeover for Oklahoma City bachelor Brooks, Sasha's older brother. Brooks is an overworked doctor, hiding his own demons, but for his sister he will accept the makeover and start dating again. But from their first time meeting in years, the sparks fly between Carly and Brooks. Will they be able to move past their chemistry and pasts? I loved the audiobook of this, the narrator was great. I truly got lost in the story and would recommend it for any fans of contemporary romance.

Thank you netgalley for my advanced audio copy.

I absolutely loved this book. From page one, I was hooked—not just by the chemistry between Carly and Brooks, but by the heart of the story. What really stood out to me were the quiet, powerful choices the author made to show us who these characters were before we even saw who they could be together. These two overcame so much individually, which was necessary to see how powerful they could come together as a duo.

One of my favorite touches was how every chapter began with a brief snippet of past conversations or mini flashbacks. These little memories added so much emotional depth and made me feel like I truly knew these characters. The pacing of their romance felt beautifully natural—rooted in mutual growth, hard truths, and unexpected tenderness. I also appreciated that Brooks' sisters were supportive without being overly meddlesome, which is a difficult line to walk with a story like this (that hinges on the meddlesome nature of family).

I also really appreciated the semi-epistolary elements woven throughout the story—especially the text message exchanges. That style of storytelling is one of my favorites, and it worked so well here. The messages felt authentic, added levity and intimacy, and gave us a deeper glimpse into the characters’ personalities in a way traditional dialogue sometimes can’t. It made the connection between Carly and Brooks feel even more personal and real.

And I have to say: as much as I enjoyed Carly and Brooks’ evolving relationship, the most moving bond in this story was the one between Brooks and Coach. Their connection was honest, raw, and quietly devastating in all the right ways. It gave Brooks’s character a kind of emotional center that made every scene he was in feel deeply grounded. Their relationship took me through every emotion known to mankind. Every young man would be so lucky to have this kind of mentor/father figure in their life. Just... unbelievably well done.

This is a romance, yes—but it’s also a story about grief, forgiveness, friendship, and rebuilding trust in yourself and others. Excellent slow burn. Just... brilliant.

Also, a man who loves/owns a cat is always a winner in my book. Brooks for the win!

Cover: Super cute! I love a cutesy cartoon romance cover.

Audio: Perfectly narrated and paced.
I will be purchasing this book to add to my personal collection upon release.
Goodreads review posted. Social media reveiws to follow.

Thank you to Netgalley and Brillance Audio for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.

I loved this one from Allison Ashley! The plot was so good and entertaining! I loved that she was the MMC’s fashion guide-it was such a unique storyline! There were many deep and heartbreaking moments, but there were also so many swoony and romantic ones as well! I loved this one!

I enjoyed the narration very much. She definitely brought the characters and the story to life beautifully.

The story was beautifully written and I enjoyed the banter and the romance between the MCs. I loved Brooks, I think he is a great MMC.
The character growth for Carly & Brooks was beautiful as a couple but also individually.
I loved how Brooks’s struggles were so realistic it made me root for him and I really wanted his happy ending.
Carly is sweet and her chemistry with Brooks is immediate and their interactions were fun to listen to.
Carly has childhood trauma and I think her mother being the one who gave it to her but also letting her help cope with it, makes her so compassionate and mature.

I hope to read more from this author

I have adored all of Allison Ashley's previous books and was so excited for another incredible romance. This one might even take my top spot in her author rankings! Fun low spice romantic comedy. The banter was great! The text messages were my favorite.

ADORED.

Oh yes, this was everything!! I loved how sweet this story was. Gosh it was adorable. The low angst books are really hitting right now and I can’t get enough of them. I loved the set-up for this book. It was realistic and charming and there’s something about two people finding their passion and pursuits for the future that soothe the soul.

Carly and Brooks feel like soul mates. They have this beautiful chemistry that constantly brought them near each other and an undeniable need to be together. I think the heaviness of this book was balanced well between the flirting and dates and all of the sister moments. I didn’t feel weighed down by reading Falling Into Place, rather it brought hope that love (from family or a partner) can help us be better and accept that love in our lives. I sincerely loved Carly and Brooks as separate characters and together.

The audiobook narrator was good but it did bug me that this book didn’t have two because it was dual POV. I would occasionally have to remind myself who’s POV chapter I was listening to because it wasn’t obvious.

Anyways, another Allison Ashley book I just loved!!!!

Overall audience notes:

Contemporary Romance
Language: mild
Romance: 2-3ish vague/brief open door
Violence: low
Content Warnings: loss of loved ones (multiple mentioned, on page and recounted), grief depiction

As soon as Allison Ashley starts promoting a new book, I start stalking NetGalley for an early audio 😆🫣 they’re always so good!

Expect 👉🏼 Best Friend’s Brother, Forced Proximity, Forbidden

Brooks is a busy doctor who doesn’t bother with taking the time to date or even dress himself nicely. When his sister’s magazine starts to struggle and she approaches him with an opportunity to bring eyes to the magazine by dating local women and visiting local venues and working with a local stylist, he hesitantly agrees.

Who knew that working with the stylist—who just so happens to be is younger sister’s quiet and sweet friend from high school—would turn out the best the best part of his day?

Carly and Brooks were perfect together. I loved how they were immediately comfortable and developed a fast friendship. The angst was fantastic and I enjoyed the slower burn as they fought off their attraction to one another.

🎧 Beautifully narrated. I listened to the entire book in a day because I didn’t want to turn it off.

Thank you Brilliance Publishing for the gifted alc.

This was a cute story and it was nice to see Carly get her happily ever after. Perfect if you like dating shows and make over shows! Also fun that it was set in Oklahoma City!

Perfect for fans of The True Love Experiment, Falling into Place by Allison Ashley is a super cute romcom following a reclusive doctor and his sister's best friend as they work strike up a deal to make career moves and get him back into the swing of society.

TWO ADULTS OPENLY COMMUNICATING THEIR FEELINGS AND TELLING EACH OTHER HOW THEY FEEL?! unheard of

super enjoyable, easy read!

thank you Netgalley for the ARC

I unfortunately will have to DNF this ALC due to the narration style.

This review is not a reflection of the talent of the narrator at all. This style is just not one that works for me personally. The story is told from a dual POV but only has one narrator. This causes a lot of confusion when I'm listening, often lost at whose perspective I'm listening to.

Ann Marie Gideon is a great narrator, and I really enjoyed listening to her! Her voice has a soothing quality and she has great inflection that keeps a listener super engaged. I am most definitely interested in hearing more of her work!

From what I did listen to, the story is fresh and exciting and I am really looking forward to picking up a digital or physical copy and posting a full review!

Carly is a hired person to design wardrobes for clients. Brooks is a physician who needs serious help in that department. Is Carly going to fall for her client?

I enjoyed this story. 4 stars.

Many thanks to Net Galley and Brilliance Publishing for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you Netgalley for this ALC! 4.5 ⭐️!! This might be one of my favorite romance read of the year so far! I loved how the author wove together a sweet romcom together with some hard topics such as grief and failure. Carley has an eye for fashion and style, and when an opportunity presents itself to further her career in personal styling she jumps at the opportunity! Only problem is not falling head over heels for her client. Brooks is a workaholic Physican, whose only social outing consists of watching sports with his cat. When his sister insists he needs to step out and become the next OK bachelor to boost her magazine, he agrees reluctantly! Can he let go of past grief that has such a tight hold on his heart? Or will the cute, fun personal stylist warm his icy heart?
Things I liked
-great chemistry between the characters
-the deeper dive into grief, and the fear of failing
-the pacing was great never slow or dull
-the narrator did a great job with this 3rd person narration

This second book in the series felt just right. It had that soft kind of sweetness I was hoping for, and listening to it on audio made everything feel even more relaxed and real.
The two characters end up working together, not by planning but just by the way life throws people into each other’s path. What starts as something casual or maybe even inconvenient slowly turns into something warmer. I liked how their feelings weren’t rushed — they noticed things, they paid attention, and it grew from there.

There’s a comfort in stories like this. Not just the romance itself, but the way people begin to see each other differently once they’re thrown into shared spaces and small moments.

It wasn’t full of drama, and that’s what made it feel believable. It had emotion, some spark, and by the end, I was happy I spent time with them.

This one fell into the “forgettable” category for me. A low-stakes romance that never quite hooked me emotionally, though it had its moments—some funny, some sweet—that kept it from being a total wash.

I really liked If Tomorrow Never Comes by the same author, so I’m not giving up on her, but Falling into Place just wasn’t my jam.

Part of the problem? The narration. Ann Marie Gideon has this permanently peppy, teen-drama energy that made the whole story feel like a high school romance trying to pass for adult. It didn’t help the already thin conflict or the pacing.

That said, I didn’t hate it—it just didn’t stick. Solid palate cleanser if you're in the mood for something light, but not one I’ll be revisiting.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for the advanced audio copy of Falling into Place. Narration on the audio by Ann Marie Gideon was well done!

This was my second Allison Ashley book and I really enjoy her romance writing style, character development, and the banter between FMC and MMC in her romance stories.

Carly is styling her best friend’s brother, Brooks, for a magazine article series where he is an eligible bachelor going on dates in OKC. The series for Sasha’s OKC based magazine, which she is trying to hype up. Sasha happens to be Brooks’ sister and Carly’s best friend. As Carly and Brooks start getting to know each-other while she styles him, they catch feelings. Now what happens to the magazine series? And how do they tell Sasha?

I recommend this one for romance genre fans, especially if you love best-friend’s brother and friends to lovers storylines.