Cover Image: Never Fall Again

Never Fall Again

Pub Date:   |   Archive Date:

Member Reviews

Never fall again,

New author for me.
Small town romance.
Like everyone knows everyone.
This one has some suspense.

It was a great storyline.
A mom who's out to protect what's hers.
At any cost..

I found this book hard to get into.
It took a bit but down the road somewhere I found it Interesting.
Small town books like small towns can be sweet.

Was this review helpful?

Never Fall Again by Lynn H. Blackburn is so good. We get to start the adventure of this series in the small yet exciting town of Gossamer Falls. This small town full of family history has just enough everyone knows everyone but no one knows everything to keep the readers guessing. Landry Hutton and her 5yo Eliza have lived in this town quietly for 3 years. Life has finally evened out enough for them to put some stakes in the ground and the community, to truly make this quaint mountain town their home.
Enter Callum Shaw. Cal is part of the Shaw family who is part of the foundation of the town. But of course his family is at odds with some other foundational families. Because how you have a small town life without small town drama?
Cal is contracted to build Landry and Eliza's home. They find trouble is knocking at their door from the jump of their arrangements. The more they get to know each other the more trouble shows up. How can Cal guard his heart from this beautiful artist and her spit-fire daughter when they clearly need his help staying safe?
I really like this book and am so excited for this series. There's just enough adventure mixed in with the everyday ups and downs to keep readers engaged. This story is fun and exciting.
Thank you NetGalley and Revell for the opportunity to share my opinions regarding this book.

Was this review helpful?

Never fall again was an okay read. The plot had some intriguing elements, and the characters were moderately engaging. However, I felt that the pacing was a bit uneven, and there were moments where the story seemed to drag. Overall, it was an okay read, but it didn't leave a lasting impression on me.

Was this review helpful?

What a great start to a new series by Lynn H. Blackburn! Never Fall Again had a little bit of everything, romance, humor, suspense, faith, and a whole bunch of endearing characters. It’s set in Gossamer Falls, North Carolina, a small resort town popular among celebrities that could be a piece of heaven, except for the underlying family feuds. Landry Hutton has just moved here with her small daughter Eliza hoping for a new start after her abusive husband’s death. As a talented potter at the Haven, an exclusive resort on the outskirts of town, she’s managed to save enough money to build a home and hires one of the town’s favorite sons and former marine Cal Shaw to manage the construction. Someone though doesn’t want her to put down permanent roots. Could it be her former husband’s family, neighboring property owners, or someone else?

This book surprised me in a good way. I found myself fully drawn in to this small town with all the engaging, quirky residents and underlying tensions. I loved Cal’s grandma, Mo, Bronwyn, and Cal’s darling golden retriever Maisy. There’re a lot of people to keep track of at first, but I found things became clearer as the story progressed. Someone mentioned having a family tree at the beginning and I think that would be amazing, just to keep everyone straight.

Loved Cal and Landry! Both have past hurts making them leery of a relationship. I loved their slow burn romance and how it grew through shared experiences and service. Cal has a funny sense of humor and I loved seeing that throughout. Landry tends to get flustered around him and produces funny word salads as a result. Though attracted to him, she’s understandably hesitant and wants to put her daughter first. I loved Cal’s genuine kindness and how he and his family completely took Landry and Eliza in and made them feel instantly cared for.

The suspense is a slow burn mystery that really ratchets up at the end. I liked that the author took the time to lay the foundation of the series giving more insight into characters and family dynamics instead of just non-stop action. There’re instances of sabotage of Landry’s work and livelihood which build to an exciting, nail-biting conclusion. The suspect was a bit of a surprise with a few red herrings along the way. I also appreciated how faith was deftly woven in throughout the story.

Definitely recommend this to romantic suspense fans! Looking forward to the next book in the series! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4-4.5 stars!

Was this review helpful?

Having read and being a fan of this author’s past work, I was expecting a bit more suspense in this story. For me, this felt more like a romance with a bit of suspense, than suspense with a bit of romance, which was what I had been expecting.

Nevertheless, I still enjoyed this story and meeting all the various members of the Quinn family.

I could understand how both Landry and Cal, due to past hurts, made the decisions they had, but it was also fun to see how the heart knew and risked before their heads followed suit.

Sweet Eliza was an adorable 5-year-old, and I enjoyed all the fun scenes with her, especially with the grump Mo (whose story I desperately want to read).

The suspense did come at the end, and when it did, it was full force nail biting with a twisted mind behind everything.

Was this review helpful?

I loved the dynamics of this book. Landry and her daughter have each other and that's enough. Until they are taken into fold of Cal's family. Everyone in this small town has connections which Landry was trying to avoid. Cal and Landry both have dissapointments with prior relationships and keep everything in the friend zone at first. As their feelings grow someone is destroying Landry's property. Things will take a dangerous turn and will have them fighting for their lives.

Was this review helpful?

Pardon me for a minute while I just sit here and keep grinning over how much I loved this book. In fact, I haven’t stopped grinning besottedly since I finished reading Never Fall Again, and I’m not sure how in the world I’m going to wait for book two because I want to immediately be back with these characters.

Landry and her adorable daughter Eliza are immediately likable, and the blurry glimpses we’re given at first of their complex backstory just drew me in even further. I wanted to know what had happened to make Landry feel like she had to keep looking over her shoulder, and as the danger begins to ramp up in the second half of the book I was completely invested in figuring it out to keep them safe. (As though I could do anything to help her, considering she’s a fictional character in a book that’s already been written & not by me… but still LOL) Landry’s personality is engaging and warm, and my favorite moments were when she was teasing Cal and even through the pages you can picture her whole face lighting up.

And then there’s Cal …. blissful smitten sigh. Cal is a former Marine, baby of the family but all man, flirty, bighearted, and protective. Has a gorgeous smile (which he uses often) – “one that reached his eyes and hid nothing” – and loves Jesus, his dog (the fabulously sweet Maisy whom I also loved) & his family. His big, crazy, hilarious, boisterous, loving family who I fell head over heels with just as easily as I fell for Cal. One of my favorite types of romance heroes is the one who suddenly realizes that, despite his best intentions to the contrary, his heart is now completely spoken for. Oh how I adored watching that happen to Cal, watching him fight unsuccessfully against falling in love with Landry and Eliza only to concede defeat. (And I very much enjoyed his family and crew realizing it before he did.) Once his walls are down, have mercy! And this sentence – “Cal kissed like it was his mission and failure wasn’t an option” – still has me fanning.

Bottom Line: My first trip to Gossamer Falls, on the pages of Never Fall Again by Lynn H. Blackburn, is one that will have me coming back to visit again and again. I loved the main & supporting characters so much that I can’t quit smiling about them, the romance between Cal & Landry is all kinds of swoony, and the suspense (though it doesn’t ramp up until the last few chapters) is riveting. Blackburn brilliantly sets up the rest of the series by giving us hints of romantic tension & complicated histories for several of Cal’s extended family, and I can’t wait to see where these relationships go next. This will easily be one of my fave reads of 2024, and I highly recommend it for your next read, too!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Was this review helpful?

Never Fall Again, by Lynn H. Blackburn, opens with Landry Hutton meeting Calum Shaw. A close friend has recommended Cal to help Landry have a new home built for herself and her young daughter. Before they can move ahead on this project, Cal and Landry learn that The Haven, the location of Landry’s current home and workplace, is actually on fire and much of Landry’s pottery is being destroyed in the blaze!

Landry decides to put her house on hold until the destroyed store can be put back in operation. When a second attack takes place at the store, Landry realizes that someone devious is definitely at work!

All Landry wants is a safe place to raise her daughter. Hold tight as you discover what happens next and more importantly who is behind it all!

Was this review helpful?

I read my first book by Author Lynn H. Blackburn, and it was fantastic! It had just the right balance of suspense and romance.

The main characters, Landry and Cal, had tragic pasts they were trying to heal from, which added depth to their slow-burn relationship. The progression from friendship to romance was so sweet as the two vulnerable people learned to take chances opening their hearts again. The supporting characters were numerous and enriched the narrative. Landry's daughter Eliza and her friend Abby were charming, while Cal's quirky family members were lovable. Maisy, Cal's loyal dog, was a delightful addition to the family dynamic.

The mystery surrounding the threatening troublemaker provided thrilling moments and a surprising resolution. Overall, the character-driven story of courage, love, and redemption concluded satisfyingly, leaving me eager to dive into book two of the series.

Was this review helpful?

NEVER FALL AGAIN (Gossamer Falls Book #1) by Lynn H. Blackburn is a wonderful start to a new Christian romantic suspense series. Set in small-town Gossamer Falls, North Carolina, this story features a slow burn romance with a focus on second chances, trust, and personal peril. This is a new-to-me author, and I am definitely going to check out her other books.

Landry Hutton is determined to give her five-year-old daughter, Eliza, a safe life after a not so happy marriage where she learns to be very hesitant around religious men. She has rebuilt her life as an artist -in-residence for the last three years at The Haven, an exclusive resort, and her pottery is prized by all. Landry is ready to have a home built for her and Eliza when her pottery shop goes up in flames. It is arson.

Callum “Cal” Shaw is a former Marine and now works with his two brothers in their construction company. When he is hired by Landry to build her home, he discovers Landry is everything he wants, but he keeps his distance due to his past. Before he starts work on her home, the pottery shop is destroyed. It becomes clear that Landry and Eliza are in danger, but from whom? Can Callum protect Landry and Eliza without becoming even more involved in their lives?

This is a fantastic Christian romantic suspense that has a slow burn romance, two individuals trying to fight their attraction due to their pasts, a suspense plot that builds to an exciting resolution, and a faith focus that does not overpower. The author does an excellent job of introducing us to the main characters in Gossamer Falls that will be the focus of future books without going to in depth and losing focus from this book’s plot line. I was also very happy with the inclusion of Cal’s golden retriever, Maisey, who is instinctively an emotional support dog without formal training. This story exceeded every one of my expectations and I cannot wait for the next in the series.

I highly recommend this Christian romantic suspense!

Was this review helpful?

Small town romantic suspense is my vibe. This was a really good book and kept me interested.
I was just waiting to see what happened and who kept messing with Landry. And the romance between Cal and Landry was amazing. Cal's relationship with Eliza (landry's daughter) was adorable.
I can't wait to see what comes of the series.

Was this review helpful?

What a great start to a new series. I enjoyed getting to know Landry and her daughter Eliza, plus Cal and his family, plus the extended community in this closeknit town of Gossamer Falls, North Carolina.
Landry has been tucked away at The Haven, trying to keep a low profile while creating pottery and teaching classes, keeping her daughter and herself safe. However, the story begins with her deciding it was time to get her own place, and thus she meets Cal when she goes to the construction business that her friend Bronwyn recommends. Soon after however, there is a suspicious fire at her pottery shop at The Haven. There are a couple of questions. Who was the target, The Haven resort or Landry herself? And who would have anything against either The Haven resort or Landry?
Later on in the story it becomes obvious who the true target is when there is another attack, which ratches up the suspense a bit. Prior to that the relationship part of the story takes a more central spot of the story. The relationship between Landry and Cal, which they are determined to keep at the friendship level because of their backgrounds. This relationship extends to his family, full of southern hospitality, and the friendship that Landry's daughter makes with a member of Cal's family.
Though a bunch of time seems to go by with a minimal amount of suspense, the suspense really takes off toward the end of the book with a sinister twist. And once you realize who the antagonist is and what the person is after, it explains why there was quite a bit of time between the attacks.
I really enjoyed the story, though I did wonder where all the suspense was in this suspense book. So, that is why I decided to mention that in my review.
I enjoyed getting to know Cal and his family and friends. And I loved that Landry and Eliza were treated as family. There was the mystery of not knowing who the bad guy was, and not knowing what direction the evil and danger was coming from. Faith was part of the story as the family was Christian, though we see those who are struggling with situations.
I can't wait to continue this series.
I received an e-copy of this book through NetGalley and was not required to write a favorable review. These are my own honest thoughts.

Was this review helpful?

Never Fall Again is one of the most tender and touching romantic suspense books that I've ever read, and that tenderness isn't just in romantic situations. I love the closeness of the Quinns and how they pull others into the family. Maisy the lab has me wanting to pet a dog, and I'm a cat person. The main characters, Landry and Cal, both have good reasons to not fall for the other, but will have to admit defeat on that. The low-level feud between three of the families in the town adds interest, especially to those characters that choose to be friends anyway. The mystery of the villain is intriguing. Author Lynn H. Blackburn has a writing style that's easy to read. She gave my emotions a thorough work-out in the best way possible. Never Fall Again is a fantastic start to the Gossamer Falls series. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley and am sharing my opinion of this well-written book.

Was this review helpful?

As Landry Hutton settles into her new life, all seems to finally be at peace in her life as she starts the building of her new home until— something happens to bring her past crashing in on her and her daughter. Builder Callum Shaw quickly becomes involved in the case and Landry and Eliza’s life as he sees they need protection.

Never Again has a blend of suspense, romance, and flawed characters to make this a good story. Landry was a wonderful mom, a creative artist, and willing to be vulnerable. Cal is generous, has a big heart, and I am glad to see he let go of his fears to see the possibility of a future with Landry. Here are some things to love about the book:

North Carolina forest
Small town
Suspense
Pottery
Landry’s daughter, Eliza
Maisey, the Golden Retriever
Cal’s family
Maniacal villain

This is the first book in the Gossamer Falls series, and I can’t wait to read more! I received a copy of the book through the Revell Reads program and NetGalley. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

It takes a lot for me to rate any book 5 stars. I need to have some kind of reaction, cry, laugh out loud, gasp at a scene, etc. This book was full of reactions! I loved it and cannot wait until the next book in the series! I did not see the twist that showed up at the end, but I certainly enjoyed it! Landry is a strong woman and just wants to take care of her daughter, she's not looking for love or any kind of relationship. Love usually arrives when you aren't looking for it. Again can't wait for the next in the series!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This review is based on an ARC from NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.

Was this review helpful?

I absolutely loved everything about this story! It has something for everyone! There’s romance, great banter, close family relationships, a mystery that will keep you guessing, and the most perfect small town feel! Lynn Blackburn has outdone herself! I think this may be my favorite story of hers.

I loved both Landry and Cal! They are so perfect for each other. I loved their chemistry and how their relationship developed. Actually, I really loved all the characters in this story and their banter with each other. And, don’t even get me started on the setting! I want to move to Gossamer Falls and go to the harvest festival! I also loved Cal’s family and want to be included in their group texts! Lol.

Never Fall Again is the first story in the Gossamer Falls series by Lynn Blackburn. After reading this story, I am so looking forward to the rest of the stories in this series!

I bought and received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own. The faith thread is light. 5 stars! Highly recommend!

Was this review helpful?

This is another new to me author and let me tell you that I am excited to keep reading this series and more books from her! It was so good! I didn't want to put it down or for it to end.

Landry is one strong momma! She's doing everything she can to protect her and her cute daughter Eliza. Just as life is looking up for them and she's meeting with Callum (Cal) Shaw to help her build a home, everything starts to unravel. Who could it be that is out to get her? Can she ever feel safe again? Or will she constantly be looking over her shoulder until everything completely falls apart?

Get ready for a great ride! You'll be guessing and trying to figure out who is causing all of the chaos and upheaval to Landry's world. But don't worry, Cal is more than just a contractor, he's a former Marine and knows his stuff to help protect these two females who are wreaking havoc on his life as well. A good kind of havoc. He's falling hard but life circumstances from his past make it hard to open up.

I loved, loved, loved Cal's family!!! They are so much fun and I loved how they just wrapped Landry right up in their arms and protection! They are fierce and loving and won't let anything or anyone hurt her and her daughter. But they might play at matchmaking! Watch out Cal...or rather don't, just embrace it as it comes. I promise you'll be happier for it!

Content: Clean. Some moments of mild peril. Some kisses but nothing further.

I received a copy from the publisher, Revell, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

Was this review helpful?

I am a long time fan of Lynn H. Blackburn's writing, and this novel is my favorite thus far. The romance between two wounded souls gives the story the emotional element that bonds characters and readers. The intense suspense is what grasps the readers' attention and keeps them highly engaged. While some elements are likely only to occur in books or movies, it doesn't spoil the heart of the story. Never Fall Again is a multi-themed book focusing most on emotional healing, healthy familial relationships, and honoring God. These themes are well-developed within this gripping tale.

I am looking forward to the second book in Blackburn's Gossamer Falls series, and am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this first book of the series from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Was this review helpful?

Lynn H. Blackburn at her best with the start of her newest series. Never Fall Again is a top-notch romantic suspense story!

Landry Hutton got out of a bad family situation with her daughter and has spent the last three years rebuilding their lives at The Haven outside of Gossamer Falls, North Carolina. She teaches art classes and gives her daughter the best life she can. Wanting to build a house close to her work, she hires Callum Shaw to do the construction and the attraction between the two is hard to deny. Cal had a hard past with dating someone with a kid that broke his heart and is hesitant to get involved with anyone at the moment. Cal is about to start construction when Landry is the victim of vandals who destroy her work and set fire to her studio. He vows to keep Landry and her daughter safe, something that proves to be harder than expected.

Never Fall Again is the newest edition in Christian Romantic Suspense and it is a great addition. While it did start just a little bit on the slow side, it picked up speed quickly and never slowed down. Landry and Cal had a great chemistry, especially when all the family got involved. Such a large extended family is going to make for an interesting series as it moves forward. The tension was tight throughout, and Blackburn did a fantastic job keeping me engaged and wanting to see a happy outcome for all these characters. At times I can get tired of romantic suspense books because they tend to end up all alike, but this one was different and had me on the edge of my seat waiting to see what the outcome would be. I’m happy to say this one hit the mark. I recommend this book to fans of Blackburn and those that love hard-hitting romantic suspense.

I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.

Was this review helpful?

I’m not going to lie Never Falls Again is one of the author’s slower paced novel. But it is still a good read. I have to say that my favorite character was Eliza Landry’s daughter and Maisy Cal’s dog. Unlike most romantic suspense I preferred romance over the suspense and mystery because of the slow burn. Because of Landry’s trauma and Cal’s past. But this book ends up being a great example of God’s plan even when you think you have a plan and everything figured out.


But I loved meeting the secondary characters that I have a feeling will be part of the following books in the series. And of course the North Carolina mountains which is a character in itself. And it’s hard to imagine this book taking place anywhere else. And of course, small town life at its best where everyone is family.


I have to say I didn’t see the twist coming and I enjoyed that. Can’t wait to see what the next one in the series has to offer.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher as part of a blog tour I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

Was this review helpful?