The Way We Fall: a second chance romance with grief and questions of loyalty

The Way We Fall is the first book in The Story of Us series by Cassia Leo. Aurora “Rory” Charles had always had feelings for her best friend’s brother; however her friendship with Hallie was more important to take a chance with Houston. They are brought together in grief following Hallie’s death. They have a passionate and toxic relationship that has them questioning their loyalty to each other and to Hallie’s memory and ultimately tears them apart. Five years later, they are brought together again. However, Houston doesn’t recognize her at first, even though she knew him immediately. Soon, the memories and their passion comes back until Houston reveals a secret. A secret that can tear them apart once and for all. 

Described as a “twisted and passionate love story that pushes the boundaries of loyalty,” I looked forward to this story. However, from the start, I did not care for Rory or Houston. Rory was so immature. Houston was beyond a jerk. The secret was anti-climatic. The story’s plot had a darker themes like infidelity, mental health issues, suicide, and abortion, which could be deeply emotional and impactful. However, it was not handled well at all. The story, its dialogue, was more cringey and eye rolling, rather deeply thought provoking and emotional. Overall, I did not like this story and I will not be continuing the series. I do not recommend The Way We Fall. 

The Way We Fell is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook