A very entertaining workplace romance audiobook
This book was previously released on audio performed by another narrator, which is a rare case among lesfic audiobooks. I’ve had the chance now to listen to both and I’m glad that Ylva Publishing decided to bring Abby Craden on board as the final result is so much better and does justice to the story.
This is a beautiful lesbian workplace romance book between Austen, a secretary in a toy company, and Dee, the second in command. It all starts when the company’s Christmas tree’s star falls and injures Dee. Austen comes to her rescue eventually changing Dee’s ill-tempered character and her life priorities…
I really enjoyed this opposites-attract romance. Dee is very well portrayed as an ice queen who is solely dedicated to her job, has a reputation as a ruthless businesswoman and has a family that doesn’t value her hard-working dedication. Austen, an administrative assistant with a tendency to speak her mind and get into trouble, somehow manages to see Dee in a more positive light. As Dee and Austen get to know each other, their attraction grows until it’s hard to hide their mutual feelings. But company policy and family pressure get in the way and Dee will have to decide whether Austen is worth risking her professional career for the sake of her own happiness.
If you’ve read Jae’s books you know that this author writes slow burn romances exceptionally well. Jae builds the attraction between the mains and their chemistry skillfully with each passing interaction. At a point, the tension is so thick that keeps the reader turning pages and hoping for a happy resolution.
However, Under a falling star goes beyond the strict romance to a critique of the role of women in business and in their own families. It’s a reflection on how gender expectations are different and the moral compass by which women and men are judged is unfairly unequal. Jae doesn’t overwhelm the reader with heavy judgments about this situation but she just unfolds the story and lets the reader reach their own conclusions. Thanks to the funny dialogues and humorous situations the novel counteracts this seriousness with a lighter tone in a balance that, in my opinion, feels just right.
I’ve read the book a few years ago, enjoyed it a lot and since then it’s on my list of Christmas-themed favourites. The first audiobook version, however, was a bit disappointing. Luckily for all Jae’s fans, Abby Craden came to the rescue and this new audiobook really takes the written words to another level. I loved how Ms. Craden brought both main characters to life and how their interactions felt natural and genuine. Very recommendable even outside of the holiday season.
Overall, a very entertaining workplace romance audiobook with lovable characters and excellent narration. 5 stars
Length: 8 hours and 5 minutes
