12/04/2025
SPOLIER ALERT!!
"Chasing the Sun" immediately placed Star Harbor, Michigan, on my map as a favorite fictional small town. "When We Fall" solidified that for me. I was completely swept away by this beautiful small-town love story, especially the secondary characters who quickly captured my heart. The reverse age gap dynamic was executed with absolute perfection.
Austin's move to Star Harbor to be near his brother takes a delightful turn when he finds himself living next door to Selene, the woman from his one-night stand, and her daughter, Winnie. This realization inspires him to stay—perhaps forever. He steps up, starting as Winnie's 'manny,' and through his dedicated time with Winnie, his feelings for Selene deepen. I adored watching him gently break through Selene's defenses and especially loved his sweet way of listening to Winnie's big dreams of conquering the fairy realm.
The emotional conflict surrounding Selene's past with Brian was truly heartbreaking. His consistent prioritization of other things over Winnie was frustrating, and I felt he should have maintained a stronger presence in his daughter's life regardless of his relationship with Selene.