Dr. Meredith Quinn always planned to return to Gossamer Falls to practice dentistry. Now that she's back home, she's made it a point to offer clinics to children and adults in nearby underserved areas. Unfortunately, those same areas are known to harbor drug traffickers, and Police Chief Grayson Ward suspects that local law enforcement is looking the other way.
After too many losses, Grayson has closed off his heart. But when Meredith enters his life, his walls crumble, and he's left exposed and vulnerable. To keep her alive, he must keep her close, but that makes it impossible for him to retreat and rebuild. Will she be the one who finally helps him emerge from isolation? Or will this force of nature leave him shattered?
I LOVED the characters, the setting, the romance, yes.
It's only not 5 stars because there were some parts that felt filler-ish and dragged the story just a enough that I can't say this is a favourite and 5 stars. BUT I LOVED READING IT AND STILL RECOMMEND THIS SERIES OK.
Meredith and Gray were so interesting! They had a rocky start and I actually loved reading that. Gray made mistakes. Meredith said hurtful things. Forgiveness and love are stronger than that.
The mystery was a bigger focus and that lost be just a bit. It was certainly high stakes but I just wasn't that interested in it. I wanted more cute Gray and Meredith dates. Gray with those romantic gestures? Yes Please.
Overall, great faith content, great characters, and happy Oceana.
Tropes and Trigger: brother's best friend, law enforcement romance, drug lords, trafficking, kinda second chance romance too. No language. Only Kissing.
3-ish stars ⭐️ Christian Fiction - Romantic Suspense
About this book:
“Dr. Meredith Quinn always planned to return to Gossamer Falls to practice dentistry. Now that she's back home, she's made it a point to offer clinics to children and adults in nearby underserved areas. Unfortunately, those same areas are known to harbor drug traffickers, and Police Chief Grayson Ward suspects that local law enforcement is looking the other way. After too many losses, Grayson has closed off his heart. But when Meredith enters his life, his walls crumble, and he's left exposed and vulnerable. To keep her alive, he must keep her close, but that makes it impossible for him to retreat and rebuild. Will she be the one who finally helps him emerge from isolation? Or will this force of nature leave him shattered?”
Series: Book #2 in the “Gossamer Falls” series. Review of Book #1, Here!
Spiritual Content- Psalm 19:14 in the Acknowledgments; A Scripture is remembered; Prayers & a Blessing over food; A few talks about God & His plans; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God, Jesus, & His plans; Mentions of prayers, praying, thanking God, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, pastors, services, & Sunday School classes; A few mentions of miracles (including using it flippantly, like Meredith and Gray saying that them kissing each other was a miracle); A couple mentions of Christians; A couple mentions of a Christian music station & worship music; A couple mentions of “better/holier-than-thou” attitudes; A couple mentions of people calling Meredith a saint; A mention of an event in the Bible; A mention of being Blessed; A mention of Gray having a hard time focusing on a sermon at church because of Meredith; A mention of a character thinking they have died, but that heaven isn’t wet with the rain they are feeling; A mention of a place smelling like heaven (good); A mention of a man who partakes in criminal actions still going to church and giving to missions for the sake of his appearance in town; *Note: Someone says that two brothers are evil (literally, not teasing); Mentions of curses or someone being cursed (or acting like they are; *Spoiler* ); A couple mentions of devilish grins; A couple mentions of luck; A mention of generational curses; A mention of a little girl thinking her dad has magical abilities; A mention of Meredith being told not to take everything out of a toddler’s mouth as gospel (condescending); A mention of Cupid; A mention of Pandora’s box; A mention of an alien abduction.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘crummy’, a ‘crud’, a ‘daggum’, a ‘hot as blazes’, a ‘load of horse manure’, a ‘moron’, a ‘sucking up, a ‘shoot’, a ‘shove off’, two ‘blasted’s, two forms of ‘ticked off’, three ‘dumb’s, three ‘shut up’s, ten forms of ‘idiot’, and thirteen forms of ‘stupid’; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); Some Sarcasm & Eye rolling; Being chased, Being shot at, Gunfire, an Explosion, Hypothermia, Being shoved into a street and almost being ran over, Shock, Injuries, Pain, Blood/Bleeding, & Passing out (up to semi-detailed); Seeing dead bodies & what is left of them (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Meredith’s brother makes she she isn’t going to hurt herself “or worse” when she’s upset (she figures out what he means and says she would never do that); Meredith loses traction when driving in the rain for a moment; All about many mentions of crimes, criminals, drugs, drug trafficking, people making illegal drugs (meth, cocaine, and marijuana) and selling it, drug dealers, drug addicts, & crooked police officers (and them trying to turn others to their side); Many mentions of murders, murderers, attempted murders and possible deaths, & bodies being found (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Mentions of the death of a sibling (younger sister) & grief (*Spoilers* ); Mentions of car accidents, deaths, & major injuries (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of gang violence, drive-by shootings, and a death (*Spoiler* ); Mentions of fires, deaths, & two bodies being found in a burning car; Mentions of human trafficking of girls (particularly teens, who have ended up dead; barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of domestic violence, physical abuse, wives being bruised and badly injured (including one by her law enforcement officer husband), & another lady being beaten to death (*Spoiler* ); Mentions of those in domestic violence situations feeling stuck & Meredith offering to help them; Mentions of a young man going missing, being found beaten, and having serve brain damage because of the assault; Mentions of guns/weapons, gunfire, bullets, being shot at, & people being shot and killed (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of injuries, pain, blood/bleeding (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of someone pushed into a street, almost ran over by a car, being in shock, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of abductions, possibly planned abductions, & ones where women were abducted and killed (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a stalker (Book #1); Mentions of tracking and listening devices; Mentions of arrests & jails/prisons; Mentions of terrorists (teasingly, calling a group of kids or an elderly woman driving this name); Mentions of bombs/explosions; Mentions of trespassing; Mentions of mudslides; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of (breast) cancer, it rapidly growing, & aggressive treatments (Meredith’s mother); Mentions of poop; A few mentions of a warning sign being written in blood; A few mentions of bombs & explosions; A few mentions of stolen cars; A few mentions of threats & blackmail; A few mentions of drunks, alcoholics, & a mean drunk; A few mentions of people being buzzed, stoned, high, drunk, or all of the above; A few mentions of hypothermia; A few mentions of vomit; A few mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of hatred; A couple mentions of nightmares (particularly Gray’s being when he is awake and fears something will happen to Meredith); A mention of a firing squad; A mention of something not being poisoned; A mention of drinking moonshine at a young age; A mention of playing poker; A mention of MMA fighting; A mention of a divorce; *Note: Meredith has a near-panic attack (barely-above-not-detailed); Gray says that words have power and that if you say something negative to yourself long enough, you’ll start to believe it (and warns Meredith against saying anything negative about herself); Meredith recalls eating Mexican food and the ride home not being quiet; Mentions of dental care (root canals, blood, etc.); Mentions of car brands; Mentions of brand names, items, & places (Reese’s cups, Sheetrock, Bluetooth, Chick-fil-A, & Cherry Coke); Mentions of fictional characters (Anne of Green Gables, Willy Wonka, Hobbits, & Mary Poppins); A mention of plastic surgery; A mention of someone not being a sadist.
Sexual Content- A hand kiss, four head/forehead kisses, two cheek kisses, two chin/jaw kisses, an ear kiss, two nose kisses, two not-detailed kisses, four barely-above-not-detailed kisses, four border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kisses, and four semi-detailed kisses; Remembering kisses (up to semi-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Snuggling, Hand holding, Warmth, Swooning, Flutters, Nearness, & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to touch, embrace, & hold hands (including Gray wanting to pull Meredith into his lap to comfort her, up to semi-detailed); Noticing (up to semi-detailed); Jealousy; Flirting & Winks; Talks about kisses & kissing (barely-above-not-detailed); Seeing other couples kiss (up to semi-detailed); Gray never knew his dad and isn’t sure his mom even knew him; Meredith comments that guys need hugs too, but Gray comments that they usually prefer those hugs to come from women; Meredith fell hard for Gray shortly after meeting him and her interest morphed into something that “bordered in an unhealthy obsession” and continued to throw herself at him and in his path; Meredith teases her brother about him not wanting to think about her wanting to know a man “better”; Gray thinks that his feelings towards Meredith are the kind that would “get a man punched in the face by a big brother”; Meredith thinks about how “delicious” Gray’s voice sounds early in the morning; Meredith needs Gray’s help unzipping her dress & when he yanks it over her head, he closes his eyes; Meredith’s grandmother fusses at Gray for thinking that old people are clueless (about romance) and adds “How do you think you got here in the first place?” (which her husband overhears and gives her a look that isn’t “sultry or steamy”, but one that is “intimate and powerful”); A ‘baby’ and a ‘harpy’; Mentions of human trafficking (usually of teen girls, including one who ended up dead on the “first night” and the others who died later, barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of illegitimate children & a man giving the baby mamas money (while not acknowledging the children, but not letting them starve because of his appearance in town); Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of couples kissing in front of others & giving “lingering looks” that “left little to the imagination”; Mentions of PDA; Mentions of flirting; Mentions of dates, dating, & girlfriends/boyfriends; Mentions of love, falling in love fast, & broken hearts; A few mentions of breakups; A few mentions of jealousy; A couple mentions of a single mom and her son moving into a man’s house that was romantically interested in her (because of hard circumstances; *Spoilers* ); A couple mentions of snuggling; A couple mentions of sparks & tension between two people; A couple mentions of blushes; A couple mentions of young couples “canoodling”; A mention of a woman being assaulted (not said if sexually or just physically); A mention of the best case scenario being that a man is having an affair (the worst case could be that he is trafficking drugs and people); A mention of cheating; A mention of someone’s husky voice after a kiss; A mention of a woman sitting on her fiancé’s lap; A mention of jealousy; A mention of crushes; Love, falling/being in love, trying not to be in love, heartbreak, & the emotions; *Note: Meredith threats to harm the “tenderest parts” of a Gray’s body when upset despite knowing that he doesn’t have to have children and might not care; Gray decided as a teen that he wasn’t going to be a husband or father & feels some grief at times over that decision (see spoilers in Negative Section for more information); Meredith’s brother wonders if the two of them have a curse that detained them to love someone who doesn’t love them back; When Meredith says she has plenty of extra weight to lose, Gray interrupts and says to never let him hear her say that again as her “body is perfection, and it houses [her] beautiful soul”; A few mentions of a nineteen-year-old girl being forced into an arranged marriage with someone twenty years older; A few mentions of Meredith’s arrival ten months after her brother was born being a shock to her family and the town; A mention of being unsure if two boys have the same father or not; A mention of some women liking (unpractical) shoes because of how they make their legs look; A mention of a bikini; A mention of butting out of a conversation.
-Meredith Quinn, age 31 -Grayson “Gray” Ward, age 35 P.O.V. switches between them 352 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Pre Teens- One Star New Teens- One Star Early High School Teens- Two Stars Older High School Teens- Three Stars My personal Rating- Three Stars
After enjoying the first book in this series, I have mixed feelings on this second book. The romance had some really cute and sweet parts, but also frustrated me a bit at their reactions to different things/confessions. The suspense elements were unsettling—as they should be as it’s evil—but have also left me feeling heavy after finishing this book and it overshadowed the cute ending.
As expected, I didn’t love all the dentist parts, but that’s not shocking at all if you know me.
This one picked up pretty close to the first book and similar to Lynette Eason’s current series, I’m thinking that this series as well is going to be one to either reread the prior books before the newest one comes out or binge read them all together once all are released. Because it’s been about a year since the first book released and I’ve read a lot of books since then, it did take some time for me to remember the events and characters in that book. On that note, though, despite some info-dumping at times, there were a few things about characters or “inside information”, if you will, that were either explained later on or not explained at all and you would be lost if you haven’t read the first book before this one.
I haven’t read the novella that could be considered Book 1.5 that was in the novella collection titled “Cornered”, so I was a wee bit lost with that couple and mentions of their story. Unfortunately, this book totally gives away the villain of that book—though, to be fair, I don’t know if it was a secret or if the person is pretty obvious.
We see a glimpse of Faith from the author’s other series and characters from her prior series as well, which was kind of like a fun Easter egg.
Gray has a heartbreaking past and is partially very protective of Meredith because of it—but also because of the feelings he refuses to admit he has for her. Most tragic backstories of main characters don’t affect me too much because I’ve read so many over the years, but I did really feel for Gray. That’s not to say I didn’t want to smack him to get his act together about Meredith, but I could honestly see his struggle and if this wasn’t a fictional story where I knew it would eventually end with a pretty little bow, I didn’t think it would end with them together and him working/worked through his past. That said, there were some points I felt he was dragging his feet too much and then when that 180 happened, it felt a little stark because there wasn’t much build up to it in his POV and just happened.
A lot of the lines/things Gray said definitely felt like they were written by a woman, but it was usually when he was groveling or confessing his feels to Meredith, so I suppose that makes sense. It felt a little jarring to me, though, I suppose because he is this hardened police chief, but then sharing his emotions with her in depth and being all eloquent. It made me roll my eyes a few times, I’ll admit.
This book hit me harder than I was expecting and I’m not sure why. Perhaps it’s hormones (we can always blame those, right?) but the human trafficking, domestic violence, and drug trafficking mentions—and even though they were kept lighter than most suspense books I’ve read—still hit me while I was reading it. Which, I suppose in a way is good because I don’t want to ever become desensitized to evil, but at the same time, it left me with a heaviness while reading. The author kept it light enough on the details that I think avid suspense readers that are 16+ would probably be fine with it, but it felt different to me. Perhaps it is partially a me issue as I read this book when I wasn’t really in the mood for a suspense story and all of the elements that come with it, but perhaps it was also partially the fact that these awful things are happening in that next county over and it’s gutting to the main characters, so we feel their emotions about it. The ending was rough on this especially and was unsettling to me.
Like the first book in the series, I did like all the family relationships of the Quinn family and how close-knit they are. They have each other’s backs in a great way and it’s honestly refreshing to see a healthy multi-generational family in a fiction series because most are broken, toxic, and/or a mess in many ways. This series is standing out to me because of this element, and I appreciate it.
Whew. That was a lot of thoughts, but I hope you can tell my mixed feelings on this book. It was a hard one to rate, in all honestly, because of all the different elements. All of that said, I’ll definitely be reading the next book because this one hinted way too much about Mo and Bronwyn’s past without giving us any true information—which is just a mean tease!
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author. *I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this honest review.
This is a great addition to the Gossamer Falls series set in the western North Carolina mountains and a visit back with the Quinn and Pierce families. Corruption from a nearby county and town reaches into Gossamer County and causes problems, especially with Meredith Quinn. The local police chief, Gray Ward, along with the Quinn men make sure Meredith is safe. This story has danger, intrigue, action, suspense, romance, and satisfaction that the bad guys are dealt with. I read via Libby and the local library.
I couldn’t wait to get back to Gossamer Falls, North Carolina!
This series centers around the Quinns, a large, closely knit, sprawling family who’ve lived in the Western North Carolina mountains for over 100 years. Book one featured Callum Quinn, book 1.5 featured his cousin, Cassie Quinn and this second book in the series, features their cousin Grayson Quinn. I’m not from a large family, so I love reading about the support, love and challenges that come with it and result from living in close proximity. Blackburn explores all kinds of ships in this series: romantic relationships, friendships, family relationships, and client relationships.
Although I enjoyed book one, this book grabbed my emotions and wouldn’t let go! I felt so connected to Police Chief Grayson Ward. The way he expressed himself and communicated with Meredith gave me a lump in my throat!
I liked Dr Meredith Quinn and her mobile dental clinic. Her determination to help the underrepresented, underserved, and the needy was admirable. I can imagine her out in Flossy, driving the windy mountain roads on a Saturday and smiling as she thought of her next client on the roster.
The humour in this story elevated it! I chuckled reading about the book return fiasco, the Mexican food ‘silent’ aftermath, and the experience resulting in gifting cow patty ornaments!
The second chances theme was woven throughout, the plot was heavier on the suspense side than the romance, and the reminder that just because one is forgiven doesn’t mean that there won’t be consequences was timely. Blackburn writes first-class romantic suspense and that’s why she’s an auto-read author for me.
This, my third book by Blackburn, was one of my most anticipated ARCs this month and it more than met my expectations. I’m impressed with the author’s rich storytelling, her authentic characters, and her ability to write a fantastic story balancing faith, romance and suspense. I can’t wait for the next installment.
I was gifted this copy by Revell and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
There was more love and relationship material in this book than any of her others. In the end, I liked it. The suspense was gratifying, tense and kept me guessing. The narrator was outstanding. Advice: since I listen to most of my books because I’m legally blind, I do set a sleep timer for 20 minutes. I don’t want to miss one minute. I also enjoyed the first in the series. Looking forward to the next book. She is an auto pre order author for me. I loved the faith content and the non explicit kissing scenes.
“I want to rebuild the walls, but I want to build them with you. I want to build them around us, together. I want the walls to protect what we’re building together.”
Such a charming quote from Lynn Blackburn’s Break My Fall.
Alright, allow me to apologize for my review in advance. Because the story was so amazing and I felt such a connection to the Quinns, (as always) my review will be unorthodoxed. Starting now…
Despite Meredith and Gray already knowing each other for over a year, this first chapter meet-cute was adorable. I don’t care, that they were already friends LOL. I love the term MEET CUTE and the author did the moment justice!
Meredith has such a heart of gold. The way her career propelled the plot is a unique twist! She’s a character that anyone can root for and hug even when she wanted to slug Gray. Hence the slow burn awesomeness! Gray is in for a lifetime of love. After the past he’s led, he has found his perfect match. Okay, enough on them because I won’t spoil the plot.
PAHLEEZZZ gimme Mo’s story.
This was such an enjoyable read.
Fans of the following will enjoy Break My Fall: Christian contemporary, inspirational romance, interracial, mystery, small town romances, family sagas, best friend’s sibling, slow burn, some mild suspense/ action scenes, romcom. Lastly, the story very lightly gleans into human trafficking (drugs etc).
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher. All words are my own
Lynn Blackburn did it again. Made me fall in love with Gossamer Falls, the Quinn family, and all the other relatable characters in this town all over again. Let’s be honest. I could read an entire saga about these characters, their relationships and the small Appalachian town. I SO SO SO love the large extended family dynamic in this series. The sibling and cousin relationships. The relatable characters in their early 30’s still trying to figure out life (hey! It’s me). The romance. It’s all perfection.
Meredith Quinn fell halfway in love with Grayson Ward the first time she met him. Unfortunately, Grayson seems utterly disinterested and even avoidant of Meredith. She silently tries to bury her feelings, wrapping herself in her work as a small-town dentist. Except someone has other plans. Meredith has unknowingly angered someone and now they are out to get her. As police chief, Grayson can’t let that happen. So naturally, Meredith becomes a target for more than someone dangerous. Now Gray is after her too, trying to keep her safe while holding her at arms length. Can they stay close, while trying to hide their hearts?
Things I loved about this:
⛰️ the relatable characters ⛰️ big extended family ⛰️sibling and cousin dynamic ⛰️ the Appalachian setting ⛰️ MO. Yes. MO ⛰️ super protective family members ⛰️ Eating a southern meal at Granny Quinn’s ⛰️ early communication between characters
I’m honestly pining for Lynn Blackburn to write a full-on contemporary romance series, set in a small North Carolina town, following a large southern family with all the love and camaraderie of the Quinn’s. 10+book series would be awesome. Butttt while I’m waiting for that to happen—I’ll keep reading her backlist and also eagerly wait for Mo’s story. He has my heart ❤️
I love the entire Quinn gang and the cozy small-town vibe of Gossamer Falls. Meeting up with Cal, Landry, Bronwyn, Mo, and Meredith again was so much fun and getting to know Gray the chief of police was very cool. I loved Meredith's heart of gold and her tendency to run headlong into trouble. Gray with his stoic, steadfast presence was the complete opposite of Meredith's bubbly nature but they complemented each other nicely. The suspense component of the plot was riveting with lots of twists and turns. The brother's best friend trope (or in this case cousin's best friend) worked well to bring Meredith and Gray together. I enjoyed the faith thread particularly in Gray's life where he had to reconsider what God's will for his life might be. Seeing Cal and Landry incredibly happy after their harrowing experience in the first book was a bonus; I can't wait to read about Bronwyn and Mo next!
I received a complimentary copy courtesy of Revell via Interviews & Reviews through NetGalley and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
Break My Fall is probably the most intense of all of Lynn H. Blackburn’s novels. It’s one that made my stomach hurt and my fingers cramp from holding on so tightly!
Gray and Meredith are caught up in two webs: a serious criminal enterprise that wants her out of the picture, and an emotional entanglement that they can’t escape.
What follows is a captivating and compelling novel that takes so many twists and turns that I lost track after a while. The danger is very real and the feelings are very deep and powerful.
I love the community of Gossamer Falls, and find the name very fitting, as most of the characters are hanging on by a thread throughout the books!
I’m excited to see what’s next, and I’m hoping it involves Mo and Bronwyn! You’ll have to read it to find out why!
Language/Profanity: freakishly; crud; mention of cursing; 'that's a load of horse manger'; heaven forbid; daggum; mercy.
Faith: someone being led to Christ; Christians; praying; talk of God.
Romance/Sex: kissing; hand-holding; there are girls/women who were abused/used; talk of eloping; scandals.
Violence ect.: Death; threats; attempted murder; drug use talked about.
Other: NA
Part of a Series: Book two in a continuing series.
Synopsis: Dr. Meredith Quinn always planned to return to Gossamer Falls to practice dentistry. Now that she's back home, she's made it a point to offer clinics to children and adults in nearby underserved areas. Unfortunately, those same areas are known to harbor drug traffickers, and Police Chief Grayson Ward suspects that local law enforcement is looking the other way.
After too many losses, Grayson has closed off his heart. But when Meredith enters his life, his walls crumble, and he's left exposed and vulnerable. To keep her alive, he must keep her close, but that makes it impossible for him to retreat and rebuild. Will she be the one who finally helps him emerge from isolation? Or will this force of nature leave him shattered?
Thoughts: The story itself is interesting, and I really enjoyed it other than the talk of the women and girls being... Used... But I really did like it. It took a bit of time to get through, but it gets better a bit before the half way mark. I liked the romance between the two main characters, how it evolved. But... All the characters annoyed me like crazy. The reason Gray had for not wanting to fall in love, admittedly, was not correct. But. He obviously thought it was true, and it was something he struggled with. And then Meredith goes and insults him and spends weeks crying and weeping. She could have been slightly more understanding, talking to him and helping him understand better. And everyone else was angry with Gray because he made her cry?! She did it to herself. She walked away, not Gray. But. It was interesting, with a net of intrigue over the whole story. Not for you ger readers though.
Bible Verse: Revelation 22:12 KJV [12] And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.
Enjoyed the return to Gossamer Falls and spending more time with characters I'd gotten to know in book one. It had a strong opening that hooked me immediately. However as it progressed I felt a bit lost at times on what the bad guys were up to and what the threat really was. There were times that I really liked the main couple, but at other times I felt like one or both overreacted to things that happened between them personally. The Quinn family is very protective and supportive of one another and this really came out at times. The action picked up near the end and had me concerned at times. Some of my favourite parts were the siblings/cousins recounting memories of some of the things they did as kids, they were hilarious. There are two other characters that things are hinted at about that I am very interested in know what the story is there. I am really hoping the next book features them and I get some answers, but I know I have to wait a while for it to be released. (I voluntarily reviewed an complimentary copy of this book.)
Another nail-biting reading experience from author Lynn Blackburn! We continue the series with the heroine, Meredith, who has had a crush on the chief of police since the day they met. She is being targeted by ruthless people in another county. Can Gray, the hero, keep her safe without falling in love, or has he already fallen? Break My Fall kept me turning the pages with its suspense, great characters, and sweet romance. I look forward to the next book in the series! *I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.*
I’m not sure what this says about me, but I tend to fall in love with small town mountain settings where murders happen. LOL Gossamer Falls sounds like a beautiful place to live, if not for the neighboring town of Neeson which is notorious for drug trafficking.
Meredith Quinn is working in Gossamer Falls as a dentist. The Quinn family is huge…siblings and cousins abound. You’re going to love the deep family dynamic in this one. Never short of love and banter the way tight knit families are. Can they get annoying – sure, but the fact is, the Quinns love hard. Someone opposed to loving hard is Police Chief Grayson Ward. He’s built-up walls and written off the idea of love due to a lot of loss that he’s experienced in his past.
At the very beginning of this book we find that Meredith seems to be a target of some sort when it becomes apparent that someone has sliced the fuel line to her car. Gray to the rescue and he’s determined to serve, protect and get to the bottom of this scary incident. Gray feels as though there may be a connection with the fact that Meredith has been helping with dental clinics in Neeson. Meredith has an empathetic heart and can’t help but be compassionate for those in certain situations, but she may have crossed into territory that’s more than she can handle. The feelings she has blooming for Gray are also a little more than she can handle.
If you like a lot of romance in your suspense novels, then this book is for you. I felt like family and romantic relationships took a front seat to the suspense storyline in this one. There were a couple of scary moments, but overall, the focus was more about Gray and Meredith and them navigating their feelings for each other.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
This is the second book in the author's Gossamer Falls series, and it's my second book by this author. I am most definitely a fan!
Dr. Meredith Quinn always knew she would go back home to Gossamer Falls to practice dentistry. She has an office in town but also a mobile office to take on the road to the neighboring town. She holds a clinic in a church parking lot for those who need dental care but cannot afford it. Unfortunately, the town is known to be harboring drug traffickers, and Meredith has heard things that could jeopardize her life. Police Chief Grayson Ward is not going to let anything happen to her if he can help it. But to protect her, he needs to keep her close. He closed off his heart a long time ago and vowed never to let a woman get close to him, but can he keep Meredith at arm's length and still protect her? Or will she be the one to break down the fortress around his heart?
This book was a total page-turner! It was full of suspense, and I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next. The story was so good that I totally got lost in it! It was extremely entertaining, and I loved the romance between Meredith and Grayson. I also loved the small western North Carolina town setting and the Quinn family. They really take care of their own, and they make this series! If you are looking for a small-town clean romance full of suspense, this is the book for you! I highly recommend it.
Good! I loved the resistance between dentist Meredith Quinn and Police Chief Grayson Ward. What I loved most though was the warm and protective nature of the Quinn clan. Can't wait for the next in the series!
I loved this book. And I say that a lot about Blackburn's books, but this one was sooooo good. I was delighted to be back in Gossamer Falls and liked seeing cameos from characters from book one. BUT Meredith and Grayson. Um....yeah they are a fantastic couple. Chemistry is perfect. Grayson is so swoony - he could be the police chief in my fiction story lol. My goodness he was such a great hero. And while I could go on and on, there's so much more to the story.
The overall suspense part of the story was great. At first I thought Meredith was kind of oblivious to what was happening around her pop-up dentist chair, but as the story went on, I could see I was in the wrong about that. Her heart for others spoke to my own heart honestly. And the last like 10% of the book! Obviously I can't spoil anything but WOW - you definitely won't want to put it down.
Gossamer Falls has a special place in my heart and now even more so with Grayson and Meredith. Break My Fall has a great faith thread, lots of nail biting moments, and the sweetest/swooniest romance. Highly recommend!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I liked this one even more than the first in the series. I loved the characters, the family, and the romance. I am so looking forward to Bronwyn and Mo's story.
It was so good to be back in Gossamer Falls and be reunited with the Quinn family. There are a lot of characters in this story and it is sometimes hard to remember the stories of other characters but the story was riveting.
I want to be a part of the Quinn family. They care so much about each other and will drop everything in a second to help each other out.
I was Team Gray in this story. I felt like he got the brunt of the Quinn family even though he had a difficult past. He worked so hard at protecting the community and those who lived within it.
I loved how Meredith took her dental clinic on the road to help those who needed it. She wore her heart on her sleeve throughout the book and was quick to care for those around her.
Thanks to Revell and netgalley for the arc. The opinions are my own.
It’s funny. I loved book one for the romance but thought the suspense was lacking. This book had great suspense but I hated the romance! But to be fair, I’m picky and not forgiving when it comes to relationships in books. I wasn’t forgiving of his mistakes and thought she forgave him too easily. But then once she did forgive him, I was mad at her brother for butting in. I just hate protective cave men so I tend to dislike the little sister tropes because I don’t find the protective males endearing. I’d hate to be a part of this family and have everybody in my business and I’d be terrible at small town living. And lastly, I just felt the men were bossy. I don’t take commands or orders well so watching others do it annoys me. We’ll see what book 3 brings I guess. I’m not to the point where I wanna give up this world. This book just had romance tropes I don’t like but it’s par for the course in romance series for me.
I'm SO happy to be back in Gossamer Falls, North Carolina with the Quinn family. Break My Fall is one of my most anticipated 2025 books! Police Chief Gray Ward & Dr. Meredith Quinn's story in Break My Fall is an amazing tale filled with suspenseful heart pounding, page-turning action, as well as humor, family, and a sweet love story.
Dr Quinn has a heart for children and adults in nearby underserved areas and offers her dentistry services a few times a year in a town 20 miles away. She named her van/mobile clinic Flossy. She hears and sees things in this corrupt town that make her a target. Gray has closed off his heart since he was a teenager after too many losses and won't let himself get too close. "Because despite his best efforts, he'd fallen hard for Meredith Quinn."
I loved ever minute of it! The characters, the setting, the story, all the wonderfully loving, quirky, loyal, and protective family members make this series a fabulous choice!
So many great lines, here are just a few: "You've sure turned into a Quinn woman. I see that clear as day. Sweet as sugar. Stubborn as a mule." "Instead, she'd turned into a hobbit. She lived in a tiny house surrounded by family. There was a lot of delicious food, and she could eat second breakfast anytime she wanted." "Had the goal today been to scare her? To abduct her? To kill her?"
I highly recommend Break My Fall to lovers of great storytelling, with suspense, romance, family, and delightful humor beautifully woven in.
Thank you to the author, Revell, and Net Galley for allowing me to read an early copy, all opinions are my own.
How far will you go to do the right thing when everyone else looks the other way?
Lynn H. Blackburn’s Break My Fall delivers a story so gripping, I could practically hear the whir of a dental drill and the static of a police radio in the background. Dr. Meredith Quinn’s bighearted (and bullheaded) mission to serve the underserved is a force of nature all its own, but when she helps the helpless, she becomes a target. Enter Police Chief Grayson Ward—stone-faced, battle-worn, and doing his best to pretend his heart isn’t on the line.
This book gave me everything I wanted and more—high stakes, deep faith, and a love story that hits like a two-ton truck. Meredith, with her undeniable compassion and that streak of stubbornness a mile wide, is exactly the kind of heroine I love to root for. Gray? Oh, Gray. The man’s got walls higher than the Blue Ridge Mountains, but when it comes to Meredith, every last one of them is bound to crumble. And let me tell you, the process is spectacular.
The faith thread? Unshakable. Gray’s struggle to align his will with God’s hit deep: “He’d thought his plans were in line with God’s will for his life. But were they? Or had he made plans and then assumed God was on board?” That question doesn’t just shape the story—it’s one of those soul-searchers that lingers long after the last page.
Blackburn keeps the tension so tight, you might need a night guard to keep from grinding your teeth. But in between the danger and antics, there’s romance, humor, warmth, and a reminder that forgiveness doesn’t erase consequences, but it does set us free.
Gossamer Falls has me hooked, and Break My Fall just cemented my permanent residency.
Highly, highly recommend—just don’t blame me when you’re up way past bedtime reading ‘one more chapter.’
I received a digital ARC of this book from the author, publisher, and NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Break My Fall is the second official book the Gossamer Falls series. There was also a connected novella in the Cornered collection. While those who have read these previous stories will appreciate seeing familiar characters and spending more time with the Quinn family, this could definitely be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
It didn't take long to be drawn into these wonderful characters--- Meredith particularly was hard not to root for. She was a dentist who had returned back to her hometown to provide dental services to underserved areas. She was such a giving person. But when that lands her in trouble, she needs the help of her cousin's best friend and police chief Grayson. These two had a great chemistry between them, but Grayson had some hurts in his past that kept him from wanting to fall in love. Watching his growth throughout the story was definitely a highlight for me. That romance was blended perfectly with those suspenseful moments to keep me turning the pages to see how it would all turn out. Lynn H. Blackburn never fails to create stories that will keep me on the edge of my seat, and this was no exception. If you love Christian romantic suspense, this is one you'll want to add to your TBR.
**ARC received via Netgalley for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Return to Gossamer Falls, North Carolina where the Quinn family takes care of its own. Dr. Meredith uses her mobile dental clinic to help the needy in the next county over. But what she observes is abuse, neglect, possible corruption and drug running. Police Chief Gray Ward wants to protect her and hopes for a closer relationship. When danger stalks them they are determined to bring it to a halt. This is more than a gripping suspense story. It showcases a godly, close-knit family who takes care of each other and has a sense of community. The connection of Meredith, brother Mo, cousin Cal and best friend Bronwyn is lifelong and full of memories of adventures. When you add in Gray as the romantic interest, his personality is revealed and how much he cared for Meredith is portrayed. I would not mind some of the thoughtful gifts he gives her. The plot had harrowing episodes that built to an exciting climax. We even see a few characters from previous books pop in. I cannot wait to return to Gossamer Falls and I will guess that the story will include a renewed relationship between Bronwyn and Mo. *A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Revell through PICT tours and through Interviews and Reviews via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Wow…Such an amazing book. The relationship development between the main characters is so good. Both main characters are amazing. I really like Meredith, a strong woman with a passion helping other.
Dr. Meredith Quinn always wanted to help people through dentistry, including those who live in the remote and dangerous area in the mountains of Gossamer Falls.
Police Chief Grayson Ward vowed never to fall in love after a series of tragic losses, but when Meredith finds herself in over her head and danger closes in, he promises not to let anything happen to her.
As threats increase, secrets get unveiled, hearts are on the line, and someone is more determined than ever to keep Meredith quiet, can Grayson keep his promise before it’s too late?
What. A. Ride!🤯😍🔥
This was book 2 in the Gossamer Falls series, and I LOVED it! Lynn H. Blackburn’s writing has such a unique way of capturing your attention and making you feel like you’re truly present with the characters and their lives.
I missed these characters so much and it felt so great to be back in Gossamer Falls with Meredith and Grayson’s story🥹
Meredith is a stubborn, strong willed, caring, and courageous MFC. I love how she speaks her mind, but she also has such a big heart for others. Her dynamic with her large family is so sweet. There’s so many unique (and strong😂) personalities, but I particularly enjoyed Meredith’s relationship with her brother, Mo.
One of my favorite things about Meredith was her persistence to bring the darkness to light, even if it was dangerous. She has a generous heart and I loved that it was never viewed as a weakness, but rather a strength🤍
Grayson’s relationship with Meredith is so perfectly chaotic, and I wouldn’t expect anything less from either of them. Their chemistry is unmatched, but I loved how Grayson and Meredith’s relationship helped both of them heal from previous trauma❤️
I’m still not over the ending…so much happened and I didn’t want it to end!🤯😭😳
If you’re looking for a book that has:
🔥 She falls first, but he falls harder 🔪 Danger at every turn 🤫 Hidden secrets 💕 Strong family dynamic ✝️ The power of forgiveness
Every once in a while I read a book and the timing is just perfect. It's exactly what I needed at that moment. This was one of those times and books. I've been waiting and waiting for it and it blew me away. I did not expect to be fighting not to loose it when I read this book. But it was so raw and relatable! Especially chapter nine.
We have to take a moment to appreciate this beautiful cover. The purple/winter is stunning to me. But what is inside is even better! Meredith is a lovely character. My heart broke with her. Because I’ve been in her shoes with the same questions and doubts. It’s such a hard place. And I loved her as a character so it was that much harder to read. It should be strange how attached to characters we readers can be but here we are. What is so interesting is that I saw so much of myself in Meredith AND Grayson, but the things I saw in him had me annoyed at him 😂 Well, I’m kind of annoyed with myself too tbh.
I loved how the ending was not the usual thing. No spoilers but I liked how it was done.
Of course my favorite part was everything Mo/Cal/Meredith!!! (And Bronwyn too). I just love the dynamics there.
Ooooh and I can’t forget the cool cameo of some friends from past series! I’m guessing a certain side character is going to get a story someday. Maybe in a future collection?
This novel is a book that I couldn’t read fast enough but at the same time, I really didn’t want it to end. The story of dentist Meredith and sheriff Gray is absorbing and complicated since they are both stubborn, opinionated and independent. Meredith has somehow put herself into the crosshairs of a local crime boss and Gray is determined to keep her safe, in spite of her foolhardiness that leads her right into danger. I loved the family dynamics, especially how Mo and Cal rallied around Meredith to protect her and how her family had to approve of Gray as a possible suitor for her. The time around the fire pit was filled with humor as well as revelations and a great way to develop the characters. The plot was fast-paced, with a lot of switchbacks and plenty of unexpected surprises along the way. I liked how the characters were able to banter with each other to keep their spirits up even in the face of imminent danger. With danger from every direction and romance that was budding and sure to bloom, this book was a real winner for me in the romantic suspense category. With plenty of intrigue, heart and hope, this novel had a compelling mystery and a captivating cast of characters. Disclaimer I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Dr Meredith Quinn practices dentistry and always wanted to come back to Gossamer Falls. But once she is back there are some things going on that put her in danger. She wants to offer her mobile clinic but is told it isn’t safe. Police chief Grayson Ward has theories as to what may be going on and it may be some shady police business. He has already lost so much but he doesn’t want to lose Meredith too!! With all that he has lost he just wants to retreat from everything but she may the one to pull him out of this isolation. Lynn Blackburn is a new author to me and I love her writing!!!
Read if you love:
💗 clean romantic suspense 💗 faith themes about forgiveness 💗 close family dynamics 💗 secrets and fast paced
I like those romantic suspense novels with a twist of family drama to it and I know that Ms. Blackburn will pen one to entertain us from the beginning to the end and once more did not fail in doing so with “Break My Fall”.
Dr. Meredith Quinn is heading home to Gossamer Falls to practice dentistry. Her clinic will service mainly children and adults to underserved areas known to harbor drug traffickers an area where local law enforcement is looking the other way. In Gossamer, Police Chief Grayson Ward has feeling towards Meredith leaving him exposed and vulnerable……and the story goes on…..
This second installment follows in the same tone and same concept has its predecessor. This time it focusses on Meredith and Grayson and to support them recurring characters from previous stories. “Break My fall” has its excitement especially when our heroes were confronted by the bad guys. There were a few in the neighboring town out to get Meredith. But she shows guts and genuinely cares for her patients and will go to no end to help. The side kick Grayson is a sweetheart, a man with a broken heart but cares deeply for Meredith but to scare to let his feelings known…I felt like shaking both…Get on with it. Of course, we had the expected play between them…definitely not X-rated ones.
This is a quick read, interesting in many ways and captivating in others. The style is clean and well-said no words out of place and one that says a lot yet fast to forget.
I like this latest I hope you enjoy it also.
I received this ARC from the publisher Revell via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it
Break My Fall by Lynn H. Blackburn continues the author’s “Gossamer Falls” series, thrusting readers into a small community that is once again fraught with danger. Grayson Ward has closed off his heart to a romantic relationship. Meanwhile, Dr. Meredith Quinn has had her eye on him for what feels like forever. When her mobile dentistry practice puts Meredith at the wrong place at the wrong time, the two main characters must face their tumultuous attraction to one another. All while attempting to solve crimes and keep Meredith alive. Break My Fall, however, didn’t excite me as much as I’d hoped it would. I swallowed the novel quickly. Not because the tension had me in knots but rather because I was on a plane, and it was the perfect length for the journey. I started the novel in the airport and finished it when the flight landed at my destination.
The tight, familial ties between the Quinn family warmed my heart. I witnessing them supporting one another through every trial. Break My Fall features real issues that we often must face in today’s world including drugs and violence; Blackburn, however, softens them somewhat for the novel. She delivers a book with a thought-out, well-written plot with a clear beginning and conclusion for the main characters, and she incorporates Christ-centered messages throughout. I saved a few quotes that poked at my heart, drilling into maybe some walls like Grayson’s that I didn’t know I had. It will never cease to amaze me how a novel can open my eyes to so much.
My issue is I never felt the connection between Grayson and Meredith. I understand love is a decision, not an emotion. I understand Grayson considering God having other plans for his life. But...something about Break My Fall felt off. Flat. The characters were characters for me, not actual people. You can tell a woman wrote the book from Grayson’s words and actions, some of which I found very hard to believe. Blackburn occasionally became too caught up in the romance, as it took priority over the “suspense” aspect of Break My Fall. The most excitement in the book is near the end, and only then did I gnaw on my fingernails. Don’t get me wrong, I did not dislike Break My Fall by Lynn H. Blackburn. But instead of a roaring bonfire I expect from a romantic suspense novel, I got a candle.
*Note: I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All views expressed are my own.