The Bookish Ashley

Abby Jimenez has built a reputation for delivering stories that blend laugh-out-loud humor with swoon-worthy romance, and her short story The Fall Risk is no exception. Though brief, this Valentine’s Day tale manages to pack in wit, tension, and heart, all while keeping readers smiling from page one to the last.

The story follows Charlotte, a woman on high alert after dealing with a stalker, and Seth, her newly divorced neighbor with major trust issues. Neither is exactly looking for love—Charlotte’s too wary, Seth’s too wounded—but fate (and a hilariously disastrous accident) traps them together, one floor above safety. With no easy escape, they’re forced to confront not only the physical precariousness of their situation but also the emotional walls they’ve each built.

What makes this story shine is Jimenez’s trademark humor. Charlotte’s quippy inner dialogue (including the unforgettable “emotional-support bear spray”) had me grinning, while Seth’s quiet steadiness made him a refreshingly grounded love interest. Their banter feels natural, their awkward circumstances are laugh-out-loud funny, and yet, in true Jimenez fashion, the story also sneaks in a dose of vulnerability that gives the romance its weight.

Because this is a short story, the romance moves quickly—arguably a little too quickly at times. I would have loved a few more moments to deepen the emotional stakes before the inevitable “fall” into romance. Still, the chemistry between Charlotte and Seth is undeniable, and their connection feels believable despite the accelerated timeline.

The Fall Risk is the kind of cozy, funny, and heartwarming read that’s perfect for when you want a quick dose of love and laughter. It doesn’t quite have the depth of Jimenez’s full-length novels, but it’s proof of her ability to craft characters who feel real and romances that make your heart race—even in just a few chapters.

Rating: 4/5 stars 💕🌿

If you’re looking for a short, sweet, and slightly ridiculous Valentine’s Day pick-me-up, this little gem is worth the risk.