Abby Jimenez has built a reputation for delivering heartfelt romcoms that balance laugh-out-loud moments with deeper, often serious themes. The Fall Risk, a short novella released through Amazon Original Stories, is no exception. Though only about 80 pages long, it manages to pack in charm, humor, suspense, and an empowering message.
A Valentine’s Day Neither of Them Wanted
The story centers on Charlotte and Seth, two neighbors who are both having a difficult Valentine’s Day. Charlotte has been living in constant fear after years of being stalked, forcing her to move multiple times, isolate herself, and arm up with every self-defense measure imaginable. Seth, meanwhile, is a newly divorced arborist, nursing the wounds of a marriage that ended in betrayal. Neither one is looking for love, but fate has other plans.
When a construction mishap destroys the wrong staircase, Charlotte and Seth find themselves trapped in their apartments with no way down. Forced proximity is a beloved trope in romance, and Jimenez uses it well here. What begins as a stressful predicament slowly transforms into an opportunity for connection, healing, and trust.
Sweet, Funny, and Surprisingly Serious
On the surface, The Fall Risk is lighthearted and witty. Jimenez’s trademark banter makes Charlotte and Seth instantly likable, and their chemistry builds quickly. Seth, with his woodsy vibes and kind heart, is a book boyfriend readers will adore. Charlotte is equally compelling as a woman learning to reclaim her life after trauma.
But beneath the humor lies a more serious narrative. The story touches on stalking, trauma recovery, and the importance of support systems. While the novella is rated PG in terms of romance, its emotional stakes run high. This mix of playfulness and depth is exactly what makes Jimenez’s stories stand out in the romcom genre.
Quick but Impactful
As a novella, this is a fast, easy read that can be devoured in one sitting. Some readers may find parts of the dialogue a little corny, and with its short length, the romance moves quickly. Still, the pacing works in favor of the story, giving readers a satisfying Valentine’s Day treat without overstaying its welcome.
Fans of Jimenez’s novels will enjoy seeing her signature style condensed into a bite-sized story, while new readers will get a perfect taste of why she is one of today’s most beloved romance authors.
Final Thoughts
The Fall Risk is a sweet, uplifting, and empowering romcom that proves even the shortest stories can leave a big impression. With its mix of humor, heart, and courage, it is the kind of Valentine’s Day story that feels better than chocolate.
