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When The Rain Falls
Since losing his wife, Finn Hudson's struggled in the bedroom. Can the younger woman next door win over his heart...and his body?
Aimee Jones is done being the “fun for a night” girl. She’s ready to be someone’s “forever.” Unfortunately, her impulsiveness and desire for thrills keep getting in the way, so does the broody older man next door.
Finn Hudson is a widowed father to teen girls who still grieves his late wife. He’s tried to move on, only to be rejected over his performance anxiety. When the girl that kissed him at the bar turns out to be his neighbor, he can’t decide if she’s a morsel or a menace.
Aimee burst her way into Finn's life. Can she burst her way into his heart as well? Or will he keep pushing her away?
When The Rain Falls is an emotional and hilarious read that is perfect for lovers of age gap, grumpy-sunshine, single dad, slow burn romantic comedies.
Aimee Jones is done being the “fun for a night” girl. She’s ready to be someone’s “forever.” Unfortunately, her impulsiveness and desire for thrills keep getting in the way, so does the broody older man next door.
Finn Hudson is a widowed father to teen girls who still grieves his late wife. He’s tried to move on, only to be rejected over his performance anxiety. When the girl that kissed him at the bar turns out to be his neighbor, he can’t decide if she’s a morsel or a menace.
Aimee burst her way into Finn's life. Can she burst her way into his heart as well? Or will he keep pushing her away?
When The Rain Falls is an emotional and hilarious read that is perfect for lovers of age gap, grumpy-sunshine, single dad, slow burn romantic comedies.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2024
28 people are currently reading
469 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 187 reviews
November 15, 2024
Tropes: widower single dad, age gap, wild child FMC, surprise neighbours, grumpy x sunshine, funny meet cute, love after loss, top tier banter, annoyance to friends to lovers and slow burn.
Rating: 5✨
This book had me by the throat. I was so hooked that I stayed up till 6 am and I didn’t even notice it. THAT’S HOW GOOD THIS BOOK IS! So, do yourself a favor and add it to your TBR.
This novella broke my heart and then fixed it. I cried, I laughed, I cried again and then laughed some more. It was a roller coaster of emotions.
It was a beautiful journey between two people who struggled and were able to overcome their demons together, while finding themselves and falling in love with each other. Also, the banter between these two was pure perfection.
I would have loved to see more of Ruby and Vivian (Finn’s daughters), as well as all the other secondary characters and I didn’t like that Finn gave Aimee the same nickname he gave to his wife, it just felt wrong.
These were the only two things that bothered me, but I can't in good conscience give this amazing book anything less than 5 stars.
The emotions were all there. Grief, heartbreak, anger, anxiety, fear, loneliness, longing, panic, laughters, joy, elation, happiness, freedom, acceptance and love. I felt all of them along with the characters, and this shows you how talented the author is.
This novella has become one of my all time favs, so I really can’t wait to read more from Rea Riley!
Thank you @Sunnybabepr for providing me an e-ARC of this wonderful book.
Rating: 5✨
This book had me by the throat. I was so hooked that I stayed up till 6 am and I didn’t even notice it. THAT’S HOW GOOD THIS BOOK IS! So, do yourself a favor and add it to your TBR.
This novella broke my heart and then fixed it. I cried, I laughed, I cried again and then laughed some more. It was a roller coaster of emotions.
It was a beautiful journey between two people who struggled and were able to overcome their demons together, while finding themselves and falling in love with each other. Also, the banter between these two was pure perfection.
I would have loved to see more of Ruby and Vivian (Finn’s daughters), as well as all the other secondary characters and I didn’t like that Finn gave Aimee the same nickname he gave to his wife, it just felt wrong.
These were the only two things that bothered me, but I can't in good conscience give this amazing book anything less than 5 stars.
The emotions were all there. Grief, heartbreak, anger, anxiety, fear, loneliness, longing, panic, laughters, joy, elation, happiness, freedom, acceptance and love. I felt all of them along with the characters, and this shows you how talented the author is.
This novella has become one of my all time favs, so I really can’t wait to read more from Rea Riley!
Thank you @Sunnybabepr for providing me an e-ARC of this wonderful book.
November 19, 2024
LONG RANT ahead, look away for the faint hearted.
I honestly don’t understand these kind of age gap books romanticizing widowers. Authors give men the greatest love of their life and making the book about grown ass men praising and whining about their true loves how perfect they are, how they will always love love love them all the while lashing out and hurting on purpose those poor much younger women who evolves into a doormat just to please those hateful grown men.
The book will devolve and reason this as grief. But the thing is, grief isn’t a reason to continuously and consecutively hurt someone and let that someone hurt you and make you feel used and insecure repetitively while you are also dealing with your own problems.
I feel like the lesson of this book is that it’s okay to take it as a woman, become an EMOTIONAL PUNCHING BAG because the man is grieving. Basically transform into an “I can fix him(no really I can)” girly 🤦🏻♀️ You can only use grief so much as an excuse until it unfolds into a mental burden specially for someone who has such imbalance in life's tribulations as Aimee is to Finn.
Also, okay, Finn is 42 and it’s understandable he has a whole life compared to a 27yrs old Aimee, but is it ALWAYS REALLY NECESSARY for said 27yrs not to have any kind of experience in love? She said she hasn’t been in love, don’t know what love is and SUDDENLY she goes for this emotionally unavailable man that always pushes her away and cannot stop thinking about his wife who died. I would rather much read Finn's love story and journey to the end with his dead wife, if you're going for a realistic view, that does not read as making a woman work for the affection and uplifting a man, now that’s realistic because not every great love story ends in HEA. (And this has been done beautifully! Please try reading Time Stamps)
Instead, you have this much younger FMC catering to the much older and experienced MMC’s whims and emotional whiplash…seriously. It really begs the question why would you partner her to carry the kind of burden a 42yrs old man carries and won't let go, who always runs hot then cold, who lost the love of his life and still won't and can’t move on, has anger management issues, confesses he feels stuck and thinks about his wife 24/7, has 2 daughters, can’t make up his mind if he’s coming or going for over 90% of the book, if things became too heavy too intimate his first instinct is to lash out AND dump the FMC.
I'll paste some of my favorite quotes.
—> This is literally the thought process of Aimee after Finn dumped her ass by confessing that everytime he touched her, he thinks of his wife LMAO and just one phone call from him saying he is sorry has her thinking of this, even after making her feel insecure and 2nd guessing everything (aaaand as always Finn, the jackass for brains has a perfect reason for this).
Also body betraying syndrome? Seriously? Apparently women in romance books really only has one useless braincell.
—> I AM NOT KIDDING. This happened. She was totally okay with him thinking about his wife while fucking her 🤢 please please seek therapy. I thought we live in modern times now. Why would someone write these?? Women being okay treated like dirt? It’s even the guy who said she deserved better than what he is giving him 😭😭😭 .
—> I was CHEERING. Cuz fucking finally. I can’t count how many times Finn disrespected, was cruel, always made Aimee feel small and made her feel like she is always fighting a losing battle with his wife. He always has excuses and reasons ready. This is like 297th time he did those and when Aimee finally had enough...well it was short and for like a chapter only but a small win nevertheless.
—> The lion, the witch and the audacity of this bitch. ✋YOU’RE the one who made her feel that, you vile pigheaded worthless garbage in steroids!
But don’t worry!! One pretty speech from Finn makes Aimee forgive him. So sweet and romantic, amiright? Pick-me girl didn't even made him work for it as always for the 297th time!
Age-gap, sunshine-grumpy books like these are repulsive and appalling.
I honestly don’t understand these kind of age gap books romanticizing widowers. Authors give men the greatest love of their life and making the book about grown ass men praising and whining about their true loves how perfect they are, how they will always love love love them all the while lashing out and hurting on purpose those poor much younger women who evolves into a doormat just to please those hateful grown men.
The book will devolve and reason this as grief. But the thing is, grief isn’t a reason to continuously and consecutively hurt someone and let that someone hurt you and make you feel used and insecure repetitively while you are also dealing with your own problems.
I feel like the lesson of this book is that it’s okay to take it as a woman, become an EMOTIONAL PUNCHING BAG because the man is grieving. Basically transform into an “I can fix him(no really I can)” girly 🤦🏻♀️ You can only use grief so much as an excuse until it unfolds into a mental burden specially for someone who has such imbalance in life's tribulations as Aimee is to Finn.
Also, okay, Finn is 42 and it’s understandable he has a whole life compared to a 27yrs old Aimee, but is it ALWAYS REALLY NECESSARY for said 27yrs not to have any kind of experience in love? She said she hasn’t been in love, don’t know what love is and SUDDENLY she goes for this emotionally unavailable man that always pushes her away and cannot stop thinking about his wife who died. I would rather much read Finn's love story and journey to the end with his dead wife, if you're going for a realistic view, that does not read as making a woman work for the affection and uplifting a man, now that’s realistic because not every great love story ends in HEA. (And this has been done beautifully! Please try reading Time Stamps)
Instead, you have this much younger FMC catering to the much older and experienced MMC’s whims and emotional whiplash…seriously. It really begs the question why would you partner her to carry the kind of burden a 42yrs old man carries and won't let go, who always runs hot then cold, who lost the love of his life and still won't and can’t move on, has anger management issues, confesses he feels stuck and thinks about his wife 24/7, has 2 daughters, can’t make up his mind if he’s coming or going for over 90% of the book, if things became too heavy too intimate his first instinct is to lash out AND dump the FMC.
I'll paste some of my favorite quotes.
“My body is betraying me. When someone rips out your heart and then stomps all over it, you probably shouldn’t still want them to fuck you stupid. But all I want right now is for the man across the street to fuck me stupid.“
—> This is literally the thought process of Aimee after Finn dumped her ass by confessing that everytime he touched her, he thinks of his wife LMAO and just one phone call from him saying he is sorry has her thinking of this, even after making her feel insecure and 2nd guessing everything (aaaand as always Finn, the jackass for brains has a perfect reason for this).
Also body betraying syndrome? Seriously? Apparently women in romance books really only has one useless braincell.
“What if it’s ok?” I ask, lowering my head to study his face as I pull my hand away. He releases my wrist and stares at me, with stormy, grey eyes.
“If what’s ok?” he asks quietly.
Adrenaline is pounding in my chest. “That you think about her when we’re together…” I have to think about my next words carefully, to make sure I don’t stammer. “Now that I know, I mean. Now that there’s full disclosure.”
“Don’t, Aimee.” His warning is harsh and ominous.
“What?” My tone is flippant and light.
“Don’t do this. Put me in this position.” His voice is lined with anger. “You’re worth more than I can give you.”
—> I AM NOT KIDDING. This happened. She was totally okay with him thinking about his wife while fucking her 🤢 please please seek therapy. I thought we live in modern times now. Why would someone write these?? Women being okay treated like dirt? It’s even the guy who said she deserved better than what he is giving him 😭😭😭 .
“ So, I give him what he wants. I pull away. I lift my heavy body off the floor. I step over him. I swipe a hand across my face to wipe away the tears. I walk away feeling dazed, but determined. Determined to pull myself out of this ditch I’ve fallen into. It’s just the latest in a long line of ditches. And I’m so fucking tired of climbing out of them.
I’m not strong enough. Not strong enough to be jerked around all the time. Not strong enough to be treated like this and still be standing tall and strong at the end of it. I’m not resilient like that fucking bridge.
But I’m strong enough to do one thing.
Leave.
—> I was CHEERING. Cuz fucking finally. I can’t count how many times Finn disrespected, was cruel, always made Aimee feel small and made her feel like she is always fighting a losing battle with his wife. He always has excuses and reasons ready. This is like 297th time he did those and when Aimee finally had enough...well it was short and for like a chapter only but a small win nevertheless.
“Alicia,” I growl. “I don’t know who in her life ever made her feel like she wasn’t wanted. I don’t know what happened to make her think people just want to use her. But it’s never happening again. Never. Understand me?”
—> The lion, the witch and the audacity of this bitch. ✋YOU’RE the one who made her feel that, you vile pigheaded worthless garbage in steroids!
But don’t worry!! One pretty speech from Finn makes Aimee forgive him. So sweet and romantic, amiright? Pick-me girl didn't even made him work for it as always for the 297th time!
Age-gap, sunshine-grumpy books like these are repulsive and appalling.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2024
This book got me! 2 messed up people trying to figure out their stuff while also just trying to be happy...we all need someone who will love us through our mess and be there when we figure our way out of them! Finn and Aimee are the 2 a.m. call we all wish we had! What a spicy, fun debut novel! Can't wait for more!!
October 20, 2024
Oh my goodness, I loved this read!! I’ve said that since chapter 1. 😍 I have so many positive things to say about this romcom book. I belly laughed on every chapter. I had tears and felt the emotions the characters portrayed. The banter between the MCs had me saying “ooo lala” and smiling ear to ear. Finn’s family reminded me of my own, so of course I had lots of chuckles. The banter between Aimee and Finn was perfection! The way Aimee tries to tell herself to ‘knock it off’ … “no, Aimee. Bad girl!” had me giggling. 🤭
FMC Aimee, is absolutely hilarious. She had me laughing hard. Aimee is 27 years old who is done being a party girl and wants to find love. She moves in with her sister Alicia who has a widowed neighbor, Finn, that saves her from a disaster of a date.
MMC Finn, made my heart break. He is a 42 year old who is hard working, reliable, full of anger, and has full on dad mode over his teen age daughters. Finn struggles between the present and the past. After losing his darling wife to cancer, Finn hasn’t been able to hold a relationship due to not being able to “perform”.
Aimee isn’t afraid to dance in a rainstorm and helps make Finn feel unstuck. How does Aimee do does? Read When The Rain Falls. Such a sweet and funny read!
FMC Aimee, is absolutely hilarious. She had me laughing hard. Aimee is 27 years old who is done being a party girl and wants to find love. She moves in with her sister Alicia who has a widowed neighbor, Finn, that saves her from a disaster of a date.
MMC Finn, made my heart break. He is a 42 year old who is hard working, reliable, full of anger, and has full on dad mode over his teen age daughters. Finn struggles between the present and the past. After losing his darling wife to cancer, Finn hasn’t been able to hold a relationship due to not being able to “perform”.
Aimee isn’t afraid to dance in a rainstorm and helps make Finn feel unstuck. How does Aimee do does? Read When The Rain Falls. Such a sweet and funny read!
December 18, 2025
One word. Incredible
November 18, 2024
The best grumpy x sunshine, opposites attract romance that I have read. This book pulled me in, kept me invested and left in awe. It’s so good. Aimee, a single, slightly wild and unhinged 27 year woman looking for someone to ground her. Finn, a grieving single 42 year old dad with performance issues that built a wall around himself…bring them together and there is chemistry, magic, connection-so good. The plot and interaction between the main characters is packed full: acknowledgment of grief balanced by plenty of humor, surface hatred and deep attraction, playful and yet intimate and spicy scenes, familial relationships and navigation of teenagers-all so good. The first person, dual PoV with internal dialogue, epic banter, and the honesty-gah, so good. I laughed, I choked up, I may have shed a tear or two…It’s so good. Thanks so much to the author for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. 5 plus ♾️ stars
November 10, 2024
I’ve struggled to know where to begin with this review, so I’ll just get right into it. I loved it. One of my top favorite reads of the year.
I’ve read a fair number of single dad + nanny/neighbor/whoever, and about half of those have been widowers. Finn’s grief was unique in how raw and honest and vulnerable it was—he wasn’t a years-hardened man in need of someone with a light touch and a bit of sunshine. He was still in the trenches of it, and needed someone to pull him out by force. He handled it terribly, but that’s part of what made it so real. Grief makes people lash out, and it was absolutely heart wrenching to watch it happen on page.
I’m usually impatient when it comes to slowburn, but I think the pacing was handled well, and the spice was delicious when it came.
There were a few small things I didn’t love—the overall implication that a lot of sex means a woman has low self worth/esteem, must be lonely, etc was one of them. To be clear I think that absolutely can be true for some people, but it was definitely in the back of my mind that I hope the author wasn’t implying that’s always the case for all women. I would have liked to see Aimee develop a better sense of self earlier on so that it doesn’t appear to be so directly tied to being finally chosen by a man.
I absolutely despised how their families treated them, but to be honest I think that was the point. Both were horrible in their own way. Widows/ers don’t need to move on to have fulfilling lives; I’ve seen first hand that some find love again, and some choose not to, and both are valid choices. I disliked Finn‘s family focusing on him finding a new woman as the only metric of happiness for him, rather than focusing on how he can live well on his own. I also strongly disliked Alicia and Greg, and by extension Aimee’s parents. She was very clearly lost and struggling, and it was infuriating that instead of finding ways to boost her up, they lectured her, and demeaned her, and were generally unsupportive assholes. Greg is a useless human. I hope that in the background he’s really good to Alicia, because all I got was a sense of deadbeat dad who’s still in the picture. There, but unhelpful and somewhat uninvolved.
Even still, this is five stars for me, because I *felt* so much. Amusement, joy, heartbreak, sorrow, anger, offense, longing and regret…so many things to feel packed into this one, and that is a talent in and of itself.
I’m very excited to see what the author does next.
I’ve read a fair number of single dad + nanny/neighbor/whoever, and about half of those have been widowers. Finn’s grief was unique in how raw and honest and vulnerable it was—he wasn’t a years-hardened man in need of someone with a light touch and a bit of sunshine. He was still in the trenches of it, and needed someone to pull him out by force. He handled it terribly, but that’s part of what made it so real. Grief makes people lash out, and it was absolutely heart wrenching to watch it happen on page.
I’m usually impatient when it comes to slowburn, but I think the pacing was handled well, and the spice was delicious when it came.
There were a few small things I didn’t love—the overall implication that a lot of sex means a woman has low self worth/esteem, must be lonely, etc was one of them. To be clear I think that absolutely can be true for some people, but it was definitely in the back of my mind that I hope the author wasn’t implying that’s always the case for all women. I would have liked to see Aimee develop a better sense of self earlier on so that it doesn’t appear to be so directly tied to being finally chosen by a man.
I absolutely despised how their families treated them, but to be honest I think that was the point. Both were horrible in their own way. Widows/ers don’t need to move on to have fulfilling lives; I’ve seen first hand that some find love again, and some choose not to, and both are valid choices. I disliked Finn‘s family focusing on him finding a new woman as the only metric of happiness for him, rather than focusing on how he can live well on his own. I also strongly disliked Alicia and Greg, and by extension Aimee’s parents. She was very clearly lost and struggling, and it was infuriating that instead of finding ways to boost her up, they lectured her, and demeaned her, and were generally unsupportive assholes. Greg is a useless human. I hope that in the background he’s really good to Alicia, because all I got was a sense of deadbeat dad who’s still in the picture. There, but unhelpful and somewhat uninvolved.
Even still, this is five stars for me, because I *felt* so much. Amusement, joy, heartbreak, sorrow, anger, offense, longing and regret…so many things to feel packed into this one, and that is a talent in and of itself.
I’m very excited to see what the author does next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2024
5 freaking stars!
This book, y’all. It has heart, emotions, grief, humor, healing and I loved every minute of it.
Aimee is a 27 year old wandering soul, who doesn’t take much seriously, flits through life and has to move in with her sister and her sister’s family. Finn is a 42 year old single dad, whose wife passed away nine years ago. Since then, he’s been living in a constant state of fear and grief….going through the motions.
Aimee has spent her adult life having endless one night stands and has no meaningful relationships to speak of. She covers her insecurities with a hilarious sense of humor and snark. She’s starting to feel very alone and unwanted trying to find her way in life.
When these two meet, Finn immediately tries to ignore her and does everything he can to get rid of her. But Aimee is persistent and she makes it her mission to make the man smile. I love that these characters and complex and imperfect - it makes the ending that much better.
This story pulled me in immediately, tugged at my heart strings, made me laugh and cry. It is so beautifully written and I was experiencing all the emotions along with the characters…that’s when you know you have a talented writer on your hands.
I am so looking forward to more of Rea’s books!
This book, y’all. It has heart, emotions, grief, humor, healing and I loved every minute of it.
Aimee is a 27 year old wandering soul, who doesn’t take much seriously, flits through life and has to move in with her sister and her sister’s family. Finn is a 42 year old single dad, whose wife passed away nine years ago. Since then, he’s been living in a constant state of fear and grief….going through the motions.
Aimee has spent her adult life having endless one night stands and has no meaningful relationships to speak of. She covers her insecurities with a hilarious sense of humor and snark. She’s starting to feel very alone and unwanted trying to find her way in life.
When these two meet, Finn immediately tries to ignore her and does everything he can to get rid of her. But Aimee is persistent and she makes it her mission to make the man smile. I love that these characters and complex and imperfect - it makes the ending that much better.
This story pulled me in immediately, tugged at my heart strings, made me laugh and cry. It is so beautifully written and I was experiencing all the emotions along with the characters…that’s when you know you have a talented writer on your hands.
I am so looking forward to more of Rea’s books!
November 13, 2024
POV: Dual
Story: 12/5
Characters: 13/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5 (I read a lot of spicy spice. This rating should be taken with a grain of salt)
*Extra Thoughts*
You ever read a book that just takes your emotions and RRRRRRR right through a blender? But in the best possible way even though you are DEFINITELY crying?
Do you like those kinds of books?
Read this.
Rea Riley knows how to write people. She creates believable characters with flaws that made the story that much more real. Her ability to weave raw emotion into every chapter is fascinating.
Aimee is annoying, but in an “I’m doing this because I love you.” kind of way. I loved her character because I am the same.
Finn. Finn’s story was full of so much beautiful love and tragedy. I fell for him and then hated him (still full in love though) and then fell all over again.
Did I read this book in two hours? YEP! Un. Put. Downable.
I loved it so much I bought the book the day I finished the advanced copy. Overjoyed to have read a copy early, it’s always such a squishy moment in my heart. Can’t wait to read more by Rea Riley!
Story: 12/5
Characters: 13/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5 (I read a lot of spicy spice. This rating should be taken with a grain of salt)
*Extra Thoughts*
You ever read a book that just takes your emotions and RRRRRRR right through a blender? But in the best possible way even though you are DEFINITELY crying?
Do you like those kinds of books?
Read this.
Rea Riley knows how to write people. She creates believable characters with flaws that made the story that much more real. Her ability to weave raw emotion into every chapter is fascinating.
Aimee is annoying, but in an “I’m doing this because I love you.” kind of way. I loved her character because I am the same.
Finn. Finn’s story was full of so much beautiful love and tragedy. I fell for him and then hated him (still full in love though) and then fell all over again.
Did I read this book in two hours? YEP! Un. Put. Downable.
I loved it so much I bought the book the day I finished the advanced copy. Overjoyed to have read a copy early, it’s always such a squishy moment in my heart. Can’t wait to read more by Rea Riley!
November 13, 2024
Wow, this book was amazing. It was a rollercoaster of emotion. I laughed and smiled so much at the interaction between Finn, a 42 year-old widower with two teenage daughters, and Aimee, a 27 year-old, Finn's neighbour's sister and the personification of 'sunny personalty'.
Of course they clash, they are total opposites but you can see the attraction they both feel towards the other. They both have some problems in the relationship department. Being a widower for 9 years, makes Finn feel he doesn't deserve a second chance at love and happiness because he's lost the most precious thing he had in the world. While Aimee always felt abandoned, by her family first, her friend and the lovers she had in the past. She felt like she was good enough for a night, or for a little while. Never being the person someone goes to for advice or just because they loved spending time with her.
Both their loneliness made me hurt so much for them. You could see how they reacted differently to it. Finn becoming closed off and never letting other people in, while Aimee doing the opposite. Always there, in the front line, not caring if she gets hurt, getting hurt means at least she cared.
Their interactions are explosive, from the banter when Aimee tries to pull Finn out of his cave, to the most intimate moments.
I would love to thank Rea Riley and Sunny Babe PR for accepting my request to read this eARC, because I got to read an incredible and intense novel. Rea Riley has a fantastic way with words. She makes you feel every single emotion the characters she magnifically created feel.
Of course they clash, they are total opposites but you can see the attraction they both feel towards the other. They both have some problems in the relationship department. Being a widower for 9 years, makes Finn feel he doesn't deserve a second chance at love and happiness because he's lost the most precious thing he had in the world. While Aimee always felt abandoned, by her family first, her friend and the lovers she had in the past. She felt like she was good enough for a night, or for a little while. Never being the person someone goes to for advice or just because they loved spending time with her.
Both their loneliness made me hurt so much for them. You could see how they reacted differently to it. Finn becoming closed off and never letting other people in, while Aimee doing the opposite. Always there, in the front line, not caring if she gets hurt, getting hurt means at least she cared.
Their interactions are explosive, from the banter when Aimee tries to pull Finn out of his cave, to the most intimate moments.
I would love to thank Rea Riley and Sunny Babe PR for accepting my request to read this eARC, because I got to read an incredible and intense novel. Rea Riley has a fantastic way with words. She makes you feel every single emotion the characters she magnifically created feel.
November 16, 2024
Tropes:
☁️Single dad
🌲Small town romance
☁️Age gap
🌲Trauma/Widower MMC
☁️Grumpy/Sunshine
🤣HEA
Thank you so much to Sunny Babe PR for sending me a copy of this book!
Oh my goodness. If there is one thing I adore, it is a small town romance. This book is Rae Riley’s debut but you honestly wouldn’t know that reading it. The characters are beautifully executed with heart wrenching backstories. I found myself tearing up multiple times reading this because it just felt soooo real. It has all of the tropes I love in a book all wrapped up with a big burly bear (😉) of a man as the bow. I ate up this book and didn’t leave a single crumb behind. For lovers of Lucy Score and Elsie Silver, I think this book is perfect for your next small town romance read!
☁️Single dad
🌲Small town romance
☁️Age gap
🌲Trauma/Widower MMC
☁️Grumpy/Sunshine
🤣HEA
Thank you so much to Sunny Babe PR for sending me a copy of this book!
Oh my goodness. If there is one thing I adore, it is a small town romance. This book is Rae Riley’s debut but you honestly wouldn’t know that reading it. The characters are beautifully executed with heart wrenching backstories. I found myself tearing up multiple times reading this because it just felt soooo real. It has all of the tropes I love in a book all wrapped up with a big burly bear (😉) of a man as the bow. I ate up this book and didn’t leave a single crumb behind. For lovers of Lucy Score and Elsie Silver, I think this book is perfect for your next small town romance read!
November 14, 2024
“When the rain falls, we’ll just dance in it. I learned that from you.”
“This is what we’ve done from day one. We hold each other when the world feels heavy. Let me hold you.”
This book! What a wonderful debut from author Rea Riley. I laughed, cried, wanted to scream, and felt everything with our MCs Finn and Aimee.
The story starts out with a lot of banter and push and pull between the MCs. Finn is a heartbroken, brooding, angry single dad who suffered a huge, tragic loss when his wife died nine years ago. He is stuck in the enormous grief and has closed himself off from the enjoyment of life. When Finn finally tried to open up and date, he experienced a bit of sexual performance anxiety and his partner immediately responded terribly and was not supportive at all. This caused Finn to put his walls back up to avoid being hurt again and exacerbated his anxiety of not being able to perform sexually with a partner. After avoiding yet another one of his family’s attempted set ups, he has a brief run in with wild Aimee.
Aimee is boisterous, wild and fun, and is getting sick of the party lifestyle. She wants to find something real and meet a man who will stay for longer than one night. Who will be her partner and love her fully, not just love her body and what she can do for them. Can total opposites Finn and Aimee be the perfect complements for each other?
While there is a lot of humor and silly banter in this book, there is also a lot of heartbreak and healing for both Finn and Aimee. The experience and nonlinear healing of grief is portrayed so beautifully. We as readers experience this up and down journey with Finn as he grapples with fading memories of his beloved late wife and sprouting feelings for Aimee. Oof, all the feelings here folks!
And then the spice and chemistry between these two? SO good, so hot. This book really has it all. Both Finn and Aimee are deliciously naughty, and of course loving, caring Aimee is completely supportive when learning of Finn’s anxieties.
Truly a wonderful debut! I loved the portrayal and representation of significant grief and loss and navigating new feelings alongside grief, and of sexual performance anxiety in men. It is something that does happen and is never anything to be ashamed about, so I was happy to see it represented in a spicy romance novel.
Thank you so much Rea Riley for this ARC opportunity!
“This is what we’ve done from day one. We hold each other when the world feels heavy. Let me hold you.”
This book! What a wonderful debut from author Rea Riley. I laughed, cried, wanted to scream, and felt everything with our MCs Finn and Aimee.
The story starts out with a lot of banter and push and pull between the MCs. Finn is a heartbroken, brooding, angry single dad who suffered a huge, tragic loss when his wife died nine years ago. He is stuck in the enormous grief and has closed himself off from the enjoyment of life. When Finn finally tried to open up and date, he experienced a bit of sexual performance anxiety and his partner immediately responded terribly and was not supportive at all. This caused Finn to put his walls back up to avoid being hurt again and exacerbated his anxiety of not being able to perform sexually with a partner. After avoiding yet another one of his family’s attempted set ups, he has a brief run in with wild Aimee.
Aimee is boisterous, wild and fun, and is getting sick of the party lifestyle. She wants to find something real and meet a man who will stay for longer than one night. Who will be her partner and love her fully, not just love her body and what she can do for them. Can total opposites Finn and Aimee be the perfect complements for each other?
While there is a lot of humor and silly banter in this book, there is also a lot of heartbreak and healing for both Finn and Aimee. The experience and nonlinear healing of grief is portrayed so beautifully. We as readers experience this up and down journey with Finn as he grapples with fading memories of his beloved late wife and sprouting feelings for Aimee. Oof, all the feelings here folks!
And then the spice and chemistry between these two? SO good, so hot. This book really has it all. Both Finn and Aimee are deliciously naughty, and of course loving, caring Aimee is completely supportive when learning of Finn’s anxieties.
Truly a wonderful debut! I loved the portrayal and representation of significant grief and loss and navigating new feelings alongside grief, and of sexual performance anxiety in men. It is something that does happen and is never anything to be ashamed about, so I was happy to see it represented in a spicy romance novel.
Thank you so much Rea Riley for this ARC opportunity!
November 12, 2024
This book was everything and more! Grump-sunshine and single dad? What’s not to love about this one!?! I loved every part of it from start to finish. It was heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. I laughed and I cried and had every other emotion in between. The pain that Finn and Aimee both experienced before they found each other was devastating. Finn from losing his wife and his son and Amy to not feeling wanted or not feeling she has a place in this world. If you love romance you need to read this one. Easy 5 star read for me!
November 15, 2024
Age gap!
I love a good age gap and this one gave me Soo many feels. Loved it and hope the author publishers more books!
I love a good age gap and this one gave me Soo many feels. Loved it and hope the author publishers more books!
November 13, 2024
ARC REVIEW!
5 ⭐️
Honestly it's so hard to find a book that addresses grief with authenticity and oh my did this book break my heart over how real the grieving process was portrayed. The emotions, thrown phrases, and writing style created a beautiful masterpiece which is this book. If a book can literally be described as an actual "heart" it would definitely be this one. I also love how Rea showcased grief in it's purest form where you could be a thousand steps ahead yet go back to square one in absolutely no time. But now enough sadness, let's TALK ABOUT THE BANTERING HELLO???? Finn & Aimee's bantering had me LITERALLY laughing out loud almost the ENTIRE BOOK!! If I had to pinpoint the main highlight of the story, it would be Finn's emotional growth. The way he always stepped outside of his body to just take a quick glimpse of how his own unintentional actions caused pain to others and if that doesn't scream selfless then I don't know what does. I, with my entire heart, can confirm that this book will open your eyes to so many different things and grief, most importantly. It will show you that it's okay NOT TO BE okay. I don't think I can ever find enough words to thank Rea for writing such a beautiful book. Hands down one of my favourite reads this year! 🥹🤍
Tropes / Microtropes:
✩ A widower single dad
✩ Found family
✩ Surprise neighbors
✩ Funny meet cute in a bar
✩ FUNNIEST AND CUTEST bantering ever!!
✩ She gives him a nickname 🐻
✩ Annoyances to friends to lovers
✩ Age gap
✩ Out of this world chemistry ✨✨
5 ⭐️
Honestly it's so hard to find a book that addresses grief with authenticity and oh my did this book break my heart over how real the grieving process was portrayed. The emotions, thrown phrases, and writing style created a beautiful masterpiece which is this book. If a book can literally be described as an actual "heart" it would definitely be this one. I also love how Rea showcased grief in it's purest form where you could be a thousand steps ahead yet go back to square one in absolutely no time. But now enough sadness, let's TALK ABOUT THE BANTERING HELLO???? Finn & Aimee's bantering had me LITERALLY laughing out loud almost the ENTIRE BOOK!! If I had to pinpoint the main highlight of the story, it would be Finn's emotional growth. The way he always stepped outside of his body to just take a quick glimpse of how his own unintentional actions caused pain to others and if that doesn't scream selfless then I don't know what does. I, with my entire heart, can confirm that this book will open your eyes to so many different things and grief, most importantly. It will show you that it's okay NOT TO BE okay. I don't think I can ever find enough words to thank Rea for writing such a beautiful book. Hands down one of my favourite reads this year! 🥹🤍
Tropes / Microtropes:
✩ A widower single dad
✩ Found family
✩ Surprise neighbors
✩ Funny meet cute in a bar
✩ FUNNIEST AND CUTEST bantering ever!!
✩ She gives him a nickname 🐻
✩ Annoyances to friends to lovers
✩ Age gap
✩ Out of this world chemistry ✨✨
November 17, 2024
This really stuck with me when I read it. I’m fine is the most frequently told lie in the English language.
I cannot begin to say how much I loved this book. I’m not entirely sure how she did this. There is grief is very real - along with the aspect of the world moving on when you feel like it should just stop. Yet, it’s not depressing in any way.
I laughed, I cried, and I laughed some more. Rea did a great job with this - HER DEBUT - and I can’t wait to see what she does next.
I cannot begin to say how much I loved this book. I’m not entirely sure how she did this. There is grief is very real - along with the aspect of the world moving on when you feel like it should just stop. Yet, it’s not depressing in any way.
I laughed, I cried, and I laughed some more. Rea did a great job with this - HER DEBUT - and I can’t wait to see what she does next.
November 15, 2024
This book was probably one of my favorite reads of 2024!! The plot and development of Finn and Aimee was so good, I seriously couldn’t put the book down! Rea Riley did such a fantastic job on this book 🥰
November 11, 2024
Aimee and Finn will hold a special place in my heart going forward. They are the new standard. This book is perfection, I was smiling, laughing or crying at every point. Ok I won't lie, I cried a lot....I haven't been so engaged by every word of a book in a long time. I'm notorious for skimming flowery language but we had none of that here. The connection between the MCs was outstanding and their emotional development throughout the book was beautiful.
Finn has been struggling in life since his wife passed away, these struggles extend to the bedroom which causes him to give up on being in a relationship. The depth of Finn's character was incredible, how he deeply feels loss and grief while navigating how to accept good things in life.
Aimee doesn't want to be chosen for just one night anymore, she wants to be someone's everything. Her closest friend is in a relationship and distance is growing between them, she's not fulfilled in her job and she's feeling lost. She moves in with her sister's family to find some stability.
Shout out to sassy gals Ruby and Viv, they were amazing!
Loved how casual and conversational a lot of the writing style was while still covering difficult topics, I was very impressed that I laughed so much considering.
This will be available on KU but honestly I need the physical copy as a trophy 🤭
It's wild that this is a debut! I can't wait to read more from Rea Riley in the future 😍
See Pinksky_books on Instagram for more 🩷
Finn has been struggling in life since his wife passed away, these struggles extend to the bedroom which causes him to give up on being in a relationship. The depth of Finn's character was incredible, how he deeply feels loss and grief while navigating how to accept good things in life.
Aimee doesn't want to be chosen for just one night anymore, she wants to be someone's everything. Her closest friend is in a relationship and distance is growing between them, she's not fulfilled in her job and she's feeling lost. She moves in with her sister's family to find some stability.
Shout out to sassy gals Ruby and Viv, they were amazing!
Loved how casual and conversational a lot of the writing style was while still covering difficult topics, I was very impressed that I laughed so much considering.
This will be available on KU but honestly I need the physical copy as a trophy 🤭
It's wild that this is a debut! I can't wait to read more from Rea Riley in the future 😍
See Pinksky_books on Instagram for more 🩷
November 15, 2024
I loved this book. I loved how Finn and Aimee first met in the bar, Coyote Ugly style 😂
I liked the flashbacks to Finn's past, when it showed how he met his wife and parts of their life together. I liked the backstory aspect, it gave more depth to Finn as a person and showed pieces of Lauren too. It was so sad what happened to Laurel and how it affected Finn so deeply. I think that's why Aimee was so perfect for him, she cared for him in all the ways he needed after losing Laurel.
I liked how Aimee gave Finn advice on how to handle Ruby. The scene with Aimee's vibrator was hilarious, I loved how she kept teasing Finn about it.
The scene with the flashback to right after Laurel's death with Vivian asking for her mom, just about made me cry. It was so sad..Finn telling her "mama's not here, I'll hold you"...😭
Finding out he not only lost his wife but his unborn child too...😭
I loved how Aimee kept barging in and forcing Finn to do fun things. She was just what he needed to come out of his shell more. I loved when she locked him out of his own house and told him to calm down, it was funny.
Finn and Aimee were so great together.
I loved everything about this book, it was such a great story.
I liked the flashbacks to Finn's past, when it showed how he met his wife and parts of their life together. I liked the backstory aspect, it gave more depth to Finn as a person and showed pieces of Lauren too. It was so sad what happened to Laurel and how it affected Finn so deeply. I think that's why Aimee was so perfect for him, she cared for him in all the ways he needed after losing Laurel.
I liked how Aimee gave Finn advice on how to handle Ruby. The scene with Aimee's vibrator was hilarious, I loved how she kept teasing Finn about it.
The scene with the flashback to right after Laurel's death with Vivian asking for her mom, just about made me cry. It was so sad..Finn telling her "mama's not here, I'll hold you"...😭
Finding out he not only lost his wife but his unborn child too...😭
I loved how Aimee kept barging in and forcing Finn to do fun things. She was just what he needed to come out of his shell more. I loved when she locked him out of his own house and told him to calm down, it was funny.
Finn and Aimee were so great together.
I loved everything about this book, it was such a great story.
November 11, 2024
You were just a little cracked. And I was looking for a place. A place where I could belong. And I found that crack in your heart. And I fit perfectly there.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (rounded up to 5)
🌶️🌶️
✨ARC REVIEW ✨
When The Rain Falls by Rea Riley
I absolutely loved this book. I refused to put it down because the writing and story was amazing! 🫶🏻 I can’t imagine losing a spouse the way Finn did. The author did a phenomenal job portraying his strength throughout the entire book. He needed Aimee to be the light in his life.
Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to review this early!!
✨BOOK RELEASES NOVEMBER 15th!!!✨
❤️🔥Age gap
❤️🔥Grumpy x sunshine (my fav!!!)
❤️🔥Widower dad MMC
❤️🔥Wild child FMC
❤️🔥Surprise neighbors
❤️🔥Meet cute in a bar
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (rounded up to 5)
🌶️🌶️
✨ARC REVIEW ✨
When The Rain Falls by Rea Riley
I absolutely loved this book. I refused to put it down because the writing and story was amazing! 🫶🏻 I can’t imagine losing a spouse the way Finn did. The author did a phenomenal job portraying his strength throughout the entire book. He needed Aimee to be the light in his life.
Thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to review this early!!
✨BOOK RELEASES NOVEMBER 15th!!!✨
❤️🔥Age gap
❤️🔥Grumpy x sunshine (my fav!!!)
❤️🔥Widower dad MMC
❤️🔥Wild child FMC
❤️🔥Surprise neighbors
❤️🔥Meet cute in a bar
November 1, 2024
“When she walked into my life, she didn’t just light up the room, she lit up my soul.”
When the Rain Falls by Rea Riley is her debut novel, and I was thrilled to say yes when she approached me to read it. This book has so many tropes I love!
Read if you enjoy:
🏡 Small-town romance
🎂 Age-gap (17 years)
😠☀️ Grumpy-sunshine
👨👧 Single dad
💔 Widower
🔥 Slow burn
💬 Amazing banter
👨👩👧👦 Found family
🌶️ Spicy scenes
4.5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
This book was such a pleasure to read! Finn Hudson lost his wife nine years ago, leaving him grieving and focused on raising his two daughters. After struggling with intimacy and dating, he gave up—until he met Aimee, a 27-year-old tired of one-night stands and looking for stability. Aimee is staying with her sister, only to find out that the guy she kissed at a bar is her sister’s neighbor, and his 15-year-old daughter is her niece’s best friend. As Aimee and Finn cross paths more often, their banter, chemistry, and connection grow into a slow-burn romance.
Aimee brings light and laughter into Finn’s life, helping him heal and feel whole again. Finn, in turn, supports her dream of finding stability. Their romance grows in simple moments—cooking, watching movies, dancing in the rain. When they finally come together, Finn’s passionate side emerges, highlighting how much Aimee impacts him. After he shares his feelings, her patience and support, despite his fears, beautifully demonstrate how trust and intimacy strengthen their bond. The spice? So good! 🫠
The story had me laughing, especially in scenes where Finn’s family meets Aimee—they were hilarious! However, I wished for more depth in Aimee’s relationships with her sister and best friend, who seemed distant or unsupportive at times. It would have been lovely to see those connections grow as Aimee found herself. In contrast, Finn is always there, believing in her and showing up when it matters, like at her race’s finish line, making them a perfect match.
Since his wife passed away, fear has ruled his life—a realization he comes to over time. Finn learns he’ll always love his late wife while feeling fortunate to find love again. He’s also striving to be present for his daughters, showing growth and resilience.
If you’re looking for an emotional journey of healing and self-discovery, this book is for you! Thank you, Rea, for reaching out and giving me the chance to read this advanced copy. When the Rain Falls releases on November 15—add it to your TBR!
When the Rain Falls by Rea Riley is her debut novel, and I was thrilled to say yes when she approached me to read it. This book has so many tropes I love!
Read if you enjoy:
🏡 Small-town romance
🎂 Age-gap (17 years)
😠☀️ Grumpy-sunshine
👨👧 Single dad
💔 Widower
🔥 Slow burn
💬 Amazing banter
👨👩👧👦 Found family
🌶️ Spicy scenes
4.5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
This book was such a pleasure to read! Finn Hudson lost his wife nine years ago, leaving him grieving and focused on raising his two daughters. After struggling with intimacy and dating, he gave up—until he met Aimee, a 27-year-old tired of one-night stands and looking for stability. Aimee is staying with her sister, only to find out that the guy she kissed at a bar is her sister’s neighbor, and his 15-year-old daughter is her niece’s best friend. As Aimee and Finn cross paths more often, their banter, chemistry, and connection grow into a slow-burn romance.
Aimee brings light and laughter into Finn’s life, helping him heal and feel whole again. Finn, in turn, supports her dream of finding stability. Their romance grows in simple moments—cooking, watching movies, dancing in the rain. When they finally come together, Finn’s passionate side emerges, highlighting how much Aimee impacts him. After he shares his feelings, her patience and support, despite his fears, beautifully demonstrate how trust and intimacy strengthen their bond. The spice? So good! 🫠
The story had me laughing, especially in scenes where Finn’s family meets Aimee—they were hilarious! However, I wished for more depth in Aimee’s relationships with her sister and best friend, who seemed distant or unsupportive at times. It would have been lovely to see those connections grow as Aimee found herself. In contrast, Finn is always there, believing in her and showing up when it matters, like at her race’s finish line, making them a perfect match.
Since his wife passed away, fear has ruled his life—a realization he comes to over time. Finn learns he’ll always love his late wife while feeling fortunate to find love again. He’s also striving to be present for his daughters, showing growth and resilience.
If you’re looking for an emotional journey of healing and self-discovery, this book is for you! Thank you, Rea, for reaching out and giving me the chance to read this advanced copy. When the Rain Falls releases on November 15—add it to your TBR!
November 8, 2024
Arc Review
When the rain falls By Rea Reilly
Available November 15
Infinity ⭐
First off i would like to thank sunnybabepr & Rea for the opportunity to read & review this book. Thank you for this gifted E-Arc.
This book follows Amiee & Finn. When Amiee decides she no longer wants to be just the "Fun girl" and find her forever she looks to make a change unfortunately her impulsiveness keep getting in the way. While Finn is dealing with his teen daughters and still mourning the death of his wife, he slowly tries to move on only to be rejected due to performance anxiety. When the girl who kissed him at the bar turns out to be his new neighbor, he can't decide if she is a morsel or a menace. The tension. The banter. The spice & also the emotions.
I absolutely love these two together. The way they are made for each other is beautiful. I love how Amiee shows Finn how to let go and have some fun & find joy in the little things. I love how Finn shows Amiee how to be mature & stable while still being herself. The way these two slowly become vulnerable & open them selfs up to each other even when its hard. I love that these two come together and help each other heal & the way Amiee pushes her way into Finn's life even when he tries to keep her at arms length, and shows him that its okay to move on. I absolutely love amiee i feel like a piece of my soul made a connection to hers. I also wanted to wrap Finn up into the biggest hug and keep him safe.
5/5 recommend this book epically of your looking for a emotional but funny romcom. Rea is a new to me author & this is her debut novel & she smashed it out the park. The raw complex of her characters while being real and realistic is amazing. The emotions she pulls from you and the way her characters slowly dig their way through and pull out on the bright side is admirable.
When the rain falls By Rea Reilly
Available November 15
Infinity ⭐
First off i would like to thank sunnybabepr & Rea for the opportunity to read & review this book. Thank you for this gifted E-Arc.
This book follows Amiee & Finn. When Amiee decides she no longer wants to be just the "Fun girl" and find her forever she looks to make a change unfortunately her impulsiveness keep getting in the way. While Finn is dealing with his teen daughters and still mourning the death of his wife, he slowly tries to move on only to be rejected due to performance anxiety. When the girl who kissed him at the bar turns out to be his new neighbor, he can't decide if she is a morsel or a menace. The tension. The banter. The spice & also the emotions.
I absolutely love these two together. The way they are made for each other is beautiful. I love how Amiee shows Finn how to let go and have some fun & find joy in the little things. I love how Finn shows Amiee how to be mature & stable while still being herself. The way these two slowly become vulnerable & open them selfs up to each other even when its hard. I love that these two come together and help each other heal & the way Amiee pushes her way into Finn's life even when he tries to keep her at arms length, and shows him that its okay to move on. I absolutely love amiee i feel like a piece of my soul made a connection to hers. I also wanted to wrap Finn up into the biggest hug and keep him safe.
5/5 recommend this book epically of your looking for a emotional but funny romcom. Rea is a new to me author & this is her debut novel & she smashed it out the park. The raw complex of her characters while being real and realistic is amazing. The emotions she pulls from you and the way her characters slowly dig their way through and pull out on the bright side is admirable.
November 10, 2024
WOW!! This book is BEAUTIFUL! I cannot believe this is a debut novel. It is pure perfection!! 🤍
☔️Age Gap
☔️Widower/Single Dad
☔️Grumpy/Sunshine
☔️ Dual POV
☔️Great Banter
Finn is a widowed, single dad who is just going through the motions of everyday life. It has been nine years since losing his wife and he has tried to move on but was left feeling empty and insecure.
Aimee is thrill seeking, impulsive, wild child that has lost her way and just wants to find her place.
Aimee and Finn meet in a bar but don’t exactly see eye to eye. She is loud and full of life and he is grumpy and just wants to hide in the shadows. Aimee is forced to move in with her sister and guess who is her neighbor? Of course the broody, not so nice troll from the bar- Finn.
Aimee forces her way into the lives of Finn and his two girls. The relationship comes at exactly the right time for both Aimee and Finn. Aimee is the breath of fresh air that he never knew he needed, and Finn shows Aimee that she has a place and is more than enough.
What I love most about this novel is that the characters are real. I could feel every bit of grief with Finn. I could feel all of Aimee’s doubts. It was amazing to see the characters grow and develop. Their love story is so beautifully written.
Not only is this story beautiful, it’s also hilarious. THE PANTRY scene still has me cackling!
And also, the SPICE. My oh my, HOT!! 🥵
Aimee is one of the best FMCs I’ve ever read! I love her so much. She’s a freaking good time and I want to be her best friend.
Finn, oh Finn. He has my heart. I just want to wrap him up in the biggest hug. I wouldn’t mind watching him do some pull ups with his shirt off, either. 🫠
Rea Riley, thank you for the opportunity to read this. It’s incredible!
☔️Age Gap
☔️Widower/Single Dad
☔️Grumpy/Sunshine
☔️ Dual POV
☔️Great Banter
Finn is a widowed, single dad who is just going through the motions of everyday life. It has been nine years since losing his wife and he has tried to move on but was left feeling empty and insecure.
Aimee is thrill seeking, impulsive, wild child that has lost her way and just wants to find her place.
Aimee and Finn meet in a bar but don’t exactly see eye to eye. She is loud and full of life and he is grumpy and just wants to hide in the shadows. Aimee is forced to move in with her sister and guess who is her neighbor? Of course the broody, not so nice troll from the bar- Finn.
Aimee forces her way into the lives of Finn and his two girls. The relationship comes at exactly the right time for both Aimee and Finn. Aimee is the breath of fresh air that he never knew he needed, and Finn shows Aimee that she has a place and is more than enough.
What I love most about this novel is that the characters are real. I could feel every bit of grief with Finn. I could feel all of Aimee’s doubts. It was amazing to see the characters grow and develop. Their love story is so beautifully written.
Not only is this story beautiful, it’s also hilarious. THE PANTRY scene still has me cackling!
And also, the SPICE. My oh my, HOT!! 🥵
Aimee is one of the best FMCs I’ve ever read! I love her so much. She’s a freaking good time and I want to be her best friend.
Finn, oh Finn. He has my heart. I just want to wrap him up in the biggest hug. I wouldn’t mind watching him do some pull ups with his shirt off, either. 🫠
Rea Riley, thank you for the opportunity to read this. It’s incredible!
November 9, 2024
WHEN THE RAIN FALLS by Rea Riley ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pub date: 11.15.2024
This book has everything!
Hilarious Banter ✔️
A sexy, brooding single dad ✔️
A (relatable) reformed party girl trying to find her place in this world ✔️
Scenes that make you gasp and kick your feet ✔️
Kissing strangers in bars ✔️
Chapters from his and her POV ✔️
Funny chapter titles ✔️
Passages that make you laugh out loud ✔️
I loved every single second of this book! I related to Aimee when she would have an inner monologue moment.
Synopsis:
Since losing his wife, Finn Hudson's struggled in the bedroom. Can the younger woman next door win over his heart...and his body?
Aimee Jones is done being the “fun for a night” girl. She’s ready to be someone’s “forever.” Unfortunately, her impulsiveness and desire for thrills keep getting in the way, so does the broody older man next door.
Finn Hudson is a widowed father to teen girls who still grieves his late wife. He’s tried to move on, only to be rejected over his performance anxiety. When the girl that kissed him at the bar turns out to be his neighbor, he can’t decide if she’s a morsel or a menace.
Aimee burst her way into Finn's life. Can she burst her way into his heart as well? Or will he keep pushing her away?
When The Rain Falls is an emotional and hilarious read that is perfect for lovers of age gap, grumpy-sunshine, single dad, slow burn romantic comedies.
Thank you @rea.riley.romance for an early copy of this book, which is quite possibly my favorite book I've read this year.
Readers, PLEASE put this book on your TBR!
Pub date: 11.15.2024
This book has everything!
Hilarious Banter ✔️
A sexy, brooding single dad ✔️
A (relatable) reformed party girl trying to find her place in this world ✔️
Scenes that make you gasp and kick your feet ✔️
Kissing strangers in bars ✔️
Chapters from his and her POV ✔️
Funny chapter titles ✔️
Passages that make you laugh out loud ✔️
I loved every single second of this book! I related to Aimee when she would have an inner monologue moment.
Synopsis:
Since losing his wife, Finn Hudson's struggled in the bedroom. Can the younger woman next door win over his heart...and his body?
Aimee Jones is done being the “fun for a night” girl. She’s ready to be someone’s “forever.” Unfortunately, her impulsiveness and desire for thrills keep getting in the way, so does the broody older man next door.
Finn Hudson is a widowed father to teen girls who still grieves his late wife. He’s tried to move on, only to be rejected over his performance anxiety. When the girl that kissed him at the bar turns out to be his neighbor, he can’t decide if she’s a morsel or a menace.
Aimee burst her way into Finn's life. Can she burst her way into his heart as well? Or will he keep pushing her away?
When The Rain Falls is an emotional and hilarious read that is perfect for lovers of age gap, grumpy-sunshine, single dad, slow burn romantic comedies.
Thank you @rea.riley.romance for an early copy of this book, which is quite possibly my favorite book I've read this year.
Readers, PLEASE put this book on your TBR!
November 16, 2024
⭐️4.5
🌶️2
I love this debut novel and it gave me all the feels. It may be a debut but you would never know with the amount of emotion evoked and care which was taken with the character’s stories.
Finn is a grumpy single dad who is a widower. He struggles with a lot, but one thing is intimacy. When he meets the younger woman next door who is his exact opposite. Aimee is a young girl who loves to have fun. She is wild and carefree which is nothing like the stoic single dad.
The emotions in this book had me wanting to cry and hug Finn. I can’t imagine the pain with the amount of grief he was dealing with on a daily basis. Aimee definitely helped Finn overcome some of his feelings. I love a good age gap and this one was perfect.
🌶️2
I love this debut novel and it gave me all the feels. It may be a debut but you would never know with the amount of emotion evoked and care which was taken with the character’s stories.
Finn is a grumpy single dad who is a widower. He struggles with a lot, but one thing is intimacy. When he meets the younger woman next door who is his exact opposite. Aimee is a young girl who loves to have fun. She is wild and carefree which is nothing like the stoic single dad.
The emotions in this book had me wanting to cry and hug Finn. I can’t imagine the pain with the amount of grief he was dealing with on a daily basis. Aimee definitely helped Finn overcome some of his feelings. I love a good age gap and this one was perfect.
October 7, 2024
Wow! What an amazing debut novel! 👏🏻
4.5⭐️
Finn is a widower and a father to two teenage girls, and he’s not looking for love. He’s struggling to move on from his late wife and shuts everyone out. Her death has brought him a lot of anger and that’s how he shows himself to the world.
Aimee is the party girl who is ready to settle down and find forever. She realizes everyone around her is growing up and moving on with their lives and she’s lonely. She’s ready to have what everyone else has too.
They both have their own troubles, and they grow with each other as they spend more time together. Aimee proves she’s not the flakey party girl anymore and Finn realizes it’s okay to love someone new after loving his wife for so long. But, there were also times when I was tearing up for Aimee and for Finn. She was so gentle with Finn as he was working through his grief, and he wasn’t afraid to show his emotions in front of her.
•
I was HOOKED from the very start. When I tell you this book is hilarious and the banter is outrageous… I mean it!! Aimee is hands down the funniest FMC I’ve read in a book recently. She was so witty and said what was on her mind, and the internal dialogue for both characters had me laughing constantly. Finn and Aimee were so relatable too, they were just normal people .. he drives a MINIVAN, I mean come on.
•
“She’s laughter in a bottle. She’s drenched, and cold, and her hair is a goddamn mess. And she’s absolutely happy about it. And I want to preserve her this way forever. Protect her from all the ways the world might try to hurt her.”
“The man’s impenetrable. But I’m not. I’m extremely penetrable. And I’d be happy to show him.”
“Aimee, you’re unrivaled in this world. You laugh at the dark and you dance in the rain. It’s fucking insane and I love it. Who on earth would ever be ready for you?”
•
🌧️ Age gap
🌧️ Grumpy/sunshine
🌧��� Slow burn
🌧️ Single dad
🌧️ Grief
4.5⭐️
Finn is a widower and a father to two teenage girls, and he’s not looking for love. He’s struggling to move on from his late wife and shuts everyone out. Her death has brought him a lot of anger and that’s how he shows himself to the world.
Aimee is the party girl who is ready to settle down and find forever. She realizes everyone around her is growing up and moving on with their lives and she’s lonely. She’s ready to have what everyone else has too.
They both have their own troubles, and they grow with each other as they spend more time together. Aimee proves she’s not the flakey party girl anymore and Finn realizes it’s okay to love someone new after loving his wife for so long. But, there were also times when I was tearing up for Aimee and for Finn. She was so gentle with Finn as he was working through his grief, and he wasn’t afraid to show his emotions in front of her.
•
I was HOOKED from the very start. When I tell you this book is hilarious and the banter is outrageous… I mean it!! Aimee is hands down the funniest FMC I’ve read in a book recently. She was so witty and said what was on her mind, and the internal dialogue for both characters had me laughing constantly. Finn and Aimee were so relatable too, they were just normal people .. he drives a MINIVAN, I mean come on.
•
“She’s laughter in a bottle. She’s drenched, and cold, and her hair is a goddamn mess. And she’s absolutely happy about it. And I want to preserve her this way forever. Protect her from all the ways the world might try to hurt her.”
“The man’s impenetrable. But I’m not. I’m extremely penetrable. And I’d be happy to show him.”
“Aimee, you’re unrivaled in this world. You laugh at the dark and you dance in the rain. It’s fucking insane and I love it. Who on earth would ever be ready for you?”
•
🌧️ Age gap
🌧️ Grumpy/sunshine
🌧��� Slow burn
🌧️ Single dad
🌧️ Grief
October 31, 2024
I was touched when Rea reached out to me and asked if I'd be interested in an ARC of her debut novel. I loved all that I was seeing about this book and was so excited when I was able to jump in and get started.
The story of Aimee and Finn was heart wrenching. These were two characters who were each going through their own seperate struggles but found peace within each other. I was in Rea's DMs to let her know that I was loving this read and that it was absolutely had me in my feelings. The writing and story that Rea was able to create had them emotions feeling palpable by the reader.
Aimee was the party girl who nobody took seriously including her sister. Finn a single dad/widower who has been holding on to the love of his wife that passed 9 years prior. A sentimental heart throb, and Aimee knows just how to rile him up. Their banter was amazing!
I highly reccomend this to anyone who loves a good age gap, single dad romance.
Thank you Rea for allowing me to read your novel as an ARC.
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:
🌶️
Trope:
-Age gap
-Single Dad
-Grumpy/Sunshine
-Slow Burn
The story of Aimee and Finn was heart wrenching. These were two characters who were each going through their own seperate struggles but found peace within each other. I was in Rea's DMs to let her know that I was loving this read and that it was absolutely had me in my feelings. The writing and story that Rea was able to create had them emotions feeling palpable by the reader.
Aimee was the party girl who nobody took seriously including her sister. Finn a single dad/widower who has been holding on to the love of his wife that passed 9 years prior. A sentimental heart throb, and Aimee knows just how to rile him up. Their banter was amazing!
I highly reccomend this to anyone who loves a good age gap, single dad romance.
Thank you Rea for allowing me to read your novel as an ARC.
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:
🌶️
Trope:
-Age gap
-Single Dad
-Grumpy/Sunshine
-Slow Burn
October 29, 2024
This did not feel like a debut novel in the slightest!!! Rea Riley did an incredible job! She pulled every emotion from me and I loved every second! the Grumpy/sunshine, single dad, AND age gap?!! YES YES YES! I can’t wait to read more from her. In the meantime, I will definitely be rereading!! ❤️
November 17, 2024
All the ❤️❤️❤️❤️ for Finn and Aimee! Can't wait to read all your upcoming books, Ms. Rea. Can't believe this is your first because this is so good.
December 18, 2024
"If you've never seen a man take out his sexual frustrations on a stack of dishes, you are missing out on the eighth wonder of the world ."
I'm still coming to terms with the fact this is a debut book! Five stars alone on the side splitting banter.The natural chemistry between Finn and Aimee was soooo good!
"Finn?" Aimee eyes me. "Are you allergic to..." Aimee draws out her sentence with a wicked grin. I know exactly what word she's not saying. "Don't!" I yell at Aimee sternly and sneeze again.
The epitome of an A-list Romantic Comedy! I have never related more to a pair of fictional characters because seriously! What is Midnight Sky supposed to smell like?! And why isnt Sawdust scented candles a thing?! These are the real questions here!
♡Age Gap
♡Widower Single Dad x Wild Child Party girl
♡ Grumpy x Sunshine
♡ Emotional Support Minivan
♡The greatest cast of side characters!
This romcom had an amazing way of leveling the reader with little warning. Lured in with a cheeky chapter titles like "These are my assholes" only to be SUCKER PUNCHED with a heartbreaking glimpse into Finn's past with the lovely Laurel.
Nothing can fix the fact my favorite person in the world is gone.
What really stood out to me in this story is the fact that Laurel wasn't just glazed over as merely the dead wife. We watched the sweet interactions between Finn and Laurel. Understanding that she was truly his person and why that even almost a decade later, he still struggled. It's what made Aimee's efforts to breathe life back into him so much sweeter.
I can't wait to see more from Rea Riley!
I'm still coming to terms with the fact this is a debut book! Five stars alone on the side splitting banter.The natural chemistry between Finn and Aimee was soooo good!
"Finn?" Aimee eyes me. "Are you allergic to..." Aimee draws out her sentence with a wicked grin. I know exactly what word she's not saying. "Don't!" I yell at Aimee sternly and sneeze again.
The epitome of an A-list Romantic Comedy! I have never related more to a pair of fictional characters because seriously! What is Midnight Sky supposed to smell like?! And why isnt Sawdust scented candles a thing?! These are the real questions here!
♡Age Gap
♡Widower Single Dad x Wild Child Party girl
♡ Grumpy x Sunshine
♡ Emotional Support Minivan
♡The greatest cast of side characters!
This romcom had an amazing way of leveling the reader with little warning. Lured in with a cheeky chapter titles like "These are my assholes" only to be SUCKER PUNCHED with a heartbreaking glimpse into Finn's past with the lovely Laurel.
Nothing can fix the fact my favorite person in the world is gone.
What really stood out to me in this story is the fact that Laurel wasn't just glazed over as merely the dead wife. We watched the sweet interactions between Finn and Laurel. Understanding that she was truly his person and why that even almost a decade later, he still struggled. It's what made Aimee's efforts to breathe life back into him so much sweeter.
I can't wait to see more from Rea Riley!
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