💘 Book Review: The Fall Risk by Abby Jimenez (Kindle Edition, Alibis Collection)
A witty, emotionally layered Valentine’s Day romance that turns a construction mishap into a heartwarming meet-cute—Abby Jimenez delivers a short story packed with humor, healing, and irresistible chemistry.
🧠 Overview
Published in March 2025 as part of Amazon Original Stories’ Alibis Collection, The Fall Risk is an 82-page romantic short that centers on Charlotte, an accountant living in self-imposed isolation after surviving a traumatic stalking incident, and Seth, a recently divorced arborist with a soft heart and encyclopedic tree knowledge.
When a construction error leaves them stranded on their shared second-floor landing with no stairs and no way down, what could have been a disaster becomes a quirky, intimate weekend of unexpected connection.
💞 Key Themes & Highlights
- 🧯 Trauma & recovery – Charlotte’s journey from guarded to open is handled with sensitivity and strength.
- 🌳 Symbolism through nature – Seth’s tree facts become metaphors for growth, resilience, and rootedness.
- 🏘️ Forced proximity – The stairless setup creates a cozy, tension-filled environment for emotional breakthroughs.
- 😂 Jimenez’s trademark humor – From bear spray to kiddie pools, the story sparkles with clever, laugh-out-loud moments.
- 💬 Dual POV narration – Alternating perspectives deepen the emotional stakes and romantic tension.
“What could have been a disaster transforms into a delightfully intimate exploration of healing, trust, and the courage to love again.”
💬 Reader Reception
- ⭐ Goodreads rating: 4.26/5 from over 19,000 ratings
- 📖 Readers praise the chemistry, emotional depth, and romantic payoff packed into a short format.
- 🧾 Some note minor quirks in punctuation or pacing, but overwhelmingly call it a funny, heartfelt, and satisfying read.
⚠️ Considerations
- 📄 Short format – Best enjoyed as a one-sitting romantic escape; not a full-length novel.
- 🧠 Content warnings – Includes themes of stalking, trauma, and self-defense.
- 📚 Part of a collection – Stands alone, but shares Alibis’ focus on unexpected truths and emotional vulnerability.
🏁 Final Verdict
The Fall Risk is a charming, emotionally intelligent rom-com short that proves love can bloom in the most precarious places. With its blend of humor, heartache, and healing, it’s perfect for fans of character-driven romance who want a quick read with lasting impact.
