Broken Down, Breaking Free

Madison "Madi" Winslow's journey to Cozy Creek, Colorado, is abruptly halted when her beloved but battered pink VW Bug dies on a mountain road. Recently single after ending a five-year relationship with commitment-phobic Ross, Madi is raw, uncertain, and feeling the weight of her unmet dreams. Her thirtieth birthday has come and gone, and she's nowhere near the life she imagined—no husband, no kids, not even a pet. The breakdown is more than mechanical; it's emotional, forcing her to confront her choices and the emptiness left by a love that never truly fulfilled her. As she waits for help, she's both anxious and oddly hopeful, sensing that this detour might be the start of something new.

Rescue on the Mountain

Cole Sutter, the rugged, recently divorced fire chief of Cozy Creek, arrives to help Madi. Their meeting is charged with awkwardness and attraction—Madi's nerves and Cole's exhaustion from a long shift create a vulnerable, authentic connection. Both are wary: Cole is still healing from betrayal, and Madi is determined not to fall for another man too soon. Yet, their banter and mutual recognition of pain lay the groundwork for something deeper. Cole's gentle competence and Madi's self-deprecating humor spark a chemistry neither can ignore, even as they both insist they're not ready for romance.

Homecoming to Cozy Creek

Arriving at her grandmother Gigi's home, Madi is enveloped in warmth, nostalgia, and unconditional love. Gigi's house is a haven—filled with the scent of cookies, cozy quilts, and the promise of healing. Madi's role is to help Gigi recover from a sprained ankle and run the beloved Cozy Creek Confectionery. The bakery, a community hub, offers Madi a chance to reconnect with her roots and rediscover her passions. The sense of belonging and the gentle push from Gigi to consider a future in Cozy Creek begin to chip away at Madi's defenses, hinting at the possibility of a new life.

Fire Chief's Complications

Cole's life is a balancing act—raising two teens, managing the fire brigade, and navigating the fallout from his ex-wife's affair with his best friend. The small town's intimacy means everyone knows his business, and the wounds of betrayal are still fresh. Cole's children, Natalie and Evan, are his anchor, but he's haunted by guilt and the fear of failing them. His interactions with Madi are a bright spot, but he's determined not to risk more heartache. The town's expectations, his own insecurities, and the ever-present reminders of his past make moving forward feel both necessary and impossible.

Sweet Beginnings at the Bakery

Immersed in the daily rhythms of the bakery, Madi reconnects with her cousin Kenzie and the quirky cast of Cozy Creek. The Confectionery is more than a workplace—it's a place of healing, laughter, and new friendships. Madi's baking skills shine, and her confidence grows as she takes on more responsibility. The bakery's regulars, the town's traditions, and the gentle matchmaking efforts of Gigi and Kenzie create a sense of belonging. Madi's heart begins to open, not just to the town, but to the possibility of love and a future she chooses for herself.

Flour, Fumbles, and Flirting

A series of mishaps—spilled flour, awkward encounters, and shared laughter—bring Madi and Cole closer. Their chemistry is undeniable, but both are cautious, scarred by past relationships. Cole's protective instincts and Madi's vulnerability create moments of intimacy that neither can dismiss. Their flirtation is sweet, hesitant, and charged with the fear of repeating old mistakes. Each small act of kindness, each shared joke, builds trust and stirs longing, making it harder for them to deny what's growing between them.

Settling In, Stirring Hearts

As Madi settles into life in Cozy Creek, she becomes a fixture in the community and a confidante to Cole's daughter, Natalie. Their morning walks with Gigi's dog Basil become a ritual, offering space for honest conversations about family, divorce, and growing up. Madi's empathy and warmth endear her to the Sutter kids, while her presence in Cole's life becomes increasingly significant. The lines between friendship and something more blur, and the town begins to root for their happiness, even as both Madi and Cole struggle with their fears.

Catastrophe in the Tree

When Madi's cat Kenny gets stuck in a tree, Cole comes to the rescue—again. The incident is both comedic and revealing, stripping away pretense and leaving them exposed, literally and emotionally. Cole's care for Madi in the aftermath—making her coffee, ensuring she eats—deepens their connection. The vulnerability of the moment, combined with their mutual attraction, brings them closer than ever. The town's gentle meddling, the support of friends and family, and the undeniable pull between them make it clear that something real is blossoming.

Fundraiser Sparks Fly

Madi is recruited to plan the annual Cozy Creek Fire Brigade fundraiser, working closely with Cole. Their collaboration is electric—full of banter, creative ideas, and shared purpose. The fundraiser becomes a metaphor for their relationship: a chance to build something meaningful together, to take risks, and to trust in the possibility of joy after heartbreak. As they navigate the logistics, their flirtation intensifies, and the town watches with anticipation, hoping for a happy ending.

Bachelor Auction Antics

The fundraiser's highlight—a bachelor auction—forces Cole into the spotlight and Madi into the role of his champion. The event is chaotic, hilarious, and charged with emotion. Rival bidders, meddling friends, and the ever-present threat of embarrassment push both Madi and Cole out of their comfort zones. When Madi wins the auction, it's a public declaration of her feelings and a turning point in their relationship. The town's cheers echo their own realization: they're ready to take a chance on each other.

Sisters, Secrets, and Scandals

Madi's sisters, Riley and Abigail, descend on Cozy Creek, bringing with them the baggage of family expectations and the specter of her ex, Ross. Their well-intentioned meddling stirs up old insecurities and forces Madi to confront the unresolved pain of her past. When Ross appears in town with a new fiancée, the emotional stakes skyrocket. Madi is blindsided by the revelation of his betrayal, and the support of her sisters becomes both a comfort and a challenge as she navigates the fallout.

The Ex Returns

Ross's arrival in Cozy Creek, flaunting his engagement to another woman, reopens old wounds and tests Madi's resolve. The confrontation is raw, humiliating, and cathartic—forcing Madi to finally let go of the guilt and self-doubt that have haunted her. Cole's intervention, stepping in to protect and comfort her, is a turning point. Their public kiss, meant to silence gossip and reclaim Madi's dignity, becomes a declaration of their true feelings. The past loses its hold, and the future beckons.

Kiss in the Corner

In the aftermath of the confrontation with Ross, Cole and Madi share a kiss that is both a performance and a revelation. The intensity of their connection, the relief of being seen and cherished, and the courage to embrace vulnerability transform their relationship. The town's whispers fade into the background as they focus on each other, finally allowing themselves to hope for happiness. The kiss is a promise—a commitment to move forward together, no matter the obstacles.

Aftermath and Honest Hearts

The days following the kiss are filled with reflection, doubt, and longing. Both Cole and Madi wrestle with their insecurities—his fear of repeating past mistakes, her worry about wanting too much. Honest conversations with friends and family, moments of tenderness with Cole's kids, and the support of Gigi and Kenzie help them find clarity. They begin to articulate what they want from each other and from life, laying the groundwork for a relationship built on trust, respect, and mutual healing.

Family Fractures, Found Family

A heated argument between Cole's ex-wife and daughter Natalie erupts, exposing the lingering pain of divorce and the challenges of blended families. Madi's presence is a balm—her empathy and steadiness help Natalie process her feelings and begin to heal. The incident underscores the importance of chosen family, the power of forgiveness, and the necessity of honest communication. Cole's gratitude for Madi deepens, and the bonds between them and the children grow stronger.

Confessions and Catastrophes

A late-night fire and Cole's resulting injury serve as a metaphor for the emotional risks of love. Madi rushes to his side, her fear and devotion laid bare. Their vulnerability in the hospital—tears, confessions, and the presence of Cole's ex—forces them to confront the realities of loving someone with a complicated past. The experience is both harrowing and healing, reminding them that true intimacy requires courage, patience, and the willingness to be seen at one's weakest.

Breaking, Healing, and Hope

In the wake of Cole's injury, he and Madi attempt to define their relationship. Miscommunication, fear, and the weight of past hurts lead to a painful conversation where both struggle to articulate their needs. Madi, determined not to settle for less than she deserves, chooses to leave rather than accept ambiguity. Cole, paralyzed by guilt and self-doubt, lets her go. The separation is agonizing, but it becomes a crucible for growth, forcing both to reckon with what they truly want.

The Choice to Stay

Back in Colorado Springs, Madi is confronted by her mother's wisdom and her own longing for Cozy Creek. The comfort of her old life feels hollow compared to the sense of belonging she found in the mountains. Encouraged by her mother to pursue her own happiness, Madi realizes that her future is in Cozy Creek—with or without Cole. The decision to stay is an act of self-love, a declaration that she will no longer let fear or others' expectations dictate her path.

Letting Go, Holding On

Haunted by regret and the realization that he let happiness slip away, Cole seeks counsel from Gigi and his brothers. Their tough love and unwavering support help him see that he is worthy of love and capable of change. Determined to make amends, Cole reaches out to Madi, sending her a bouquet of peonies—a symbol of their shared history and his hope for a future together. The gesture is both an apology and a promise to fight for what matters.

Reunion at the Fundraiser

At the much-anticipated fundraiser, Madi and Cole are reunited in a whirlwind of laughter, nerves, and community support. The bachelor auction becomes a stage for their reconciliation, with Madi's winning bid a public affirmation of her love. Surrounded by friends, family, and the town that has become their home, they confess their feelings and commit to building a life together. The past is finally laid to rest, and the future is wide open.

Peonies and Promises

In the quiet aftermath of the fundraiser, Madi and Cole share a night of passion, vulnerability, and honest conversation. The peonies—echoes of childhood kindness and adult devotion—become a symbol of their journey from brokenness to wholeness. They promise to face life's challenges together, to love each other fiercely, and to create a family built on trust and joy. The healing is not just personal but communal, as the town celebrates their happiness and the promise of new traditions.

Happily Ever After Once More

One year later, Madi and Cole's love has deepened, weathering the storms of blended family, small-town drama, and the everyday challenges of life. Their engagement, celebrated with the children and the community, is a testament to the power of second chances and the courage to choose happiness. The story ends not with a grand gesture, but with the quiet certainty that home is not a place, but the people we choose to love—and the promise to fall, at once, into each other's arms, again and again.

Characters

Madison "Madi" Winslow

Madi is a thirty-year-old event planner whose life is at a crossroads after ending a long, unfulfilling relationship. She is introspective, witty, and deeply empathetic, often putting others' needs before her own. Her journey is one of self-discovery—learning to value her desires, set boundaries, and pursue happiness on her own terms. Madi's relationships with her family, especially her grandmother Gigi and cousin Kenzie, ground her, while her growing bond with Cole and his children challenges her to embrace vulnerability. Her arc is about reclaiming agency, finding home, and daring to love again.

Cole Sutter

Cole is the fire chief of Cozy Creek, a devoted father, and a man scarred by betrayal. His marriage ended in public humiliation, leaving him wary of intimacy and haunted by the fear of failing those he loves. Cole is stoic, responsible, and fiercely loyal, but beneath his gruff exterior lies a tender heart. His relationship with Madi awakens hope and desire, forcing him to confront his insecurities and trust in the possibility of joy. Cole's growth is marked by his willingness to be vulnerable, to forgive himself, and to fight for a future he thought he'd lost.

Gigi (Georgia Renee Hale)

Gigi is Madi's grandmother and the owner of the Cozy Creek Confectionery. Wise, mischievous, and endlessly loving, she is the glue that holds the family and community together. Gigi's gentle nudges and unwavering support help Madi and Cole find their way to each other. She embodies the values of tradition, resilience, and unconditional love, offering a safe haven for all who enter her home or bakery. Her presence is a reminder that healing and happiness are possible at any age.

Kenzie

Kenzie is Madi's cousin and best friend, working alongside her at the bakery. Spirited, loyal, and a bit chaotic, Kenzie provides both levity and wisdom. Her own romantic misadventures mirror Madi's struggles, and their bond is a source of strength for both. Kenzie's journey is about learning to trust, forgive, and open her heart, even as she helps Madi do the same.

Natalie Sutter

Natalie is Cole's fifteen-year-old daughter, caught between the fallout of her parents' divorce and the challenges of adolescence. Sensitive, smart, and sometimes rebellious, she forms a close bond with Madi, finding in her a mentor and friend. Natalie's arc is about processing grief, rebuilding trust, and embracing the new family taking shape around her.

Evan Sutter

Evan, Cole's younger child, is quieter but deeply affected by the family's upheaval. He looks up to his father and gradually warms to Madi, finding comfort in her kindness and the routines of Cozy Creek. Evan's journey is one of adaptation, learning to trust that love and security can endure even after loss.

Riley Winslow

Riley is Madi's older sister, a successful, polished professional who often takes charge. She is fiercely protective of her siblings, sometimes to the point of overstepping. Riley's support is both a comfort and a challenge for Madi, forcing her to assert her independence and define her own happiness.

Abigail Winslow

Abigail is the wild card of the Winslow sisters—bohemian, outspoken, and unfiltered. Her humor and boldness provide comic relief, but she is also deeply loyal. Abigail's attempts to help Madi often backfire, but her heart is always in the right place.

Sherry Sutter

Sherry is Cole's ex-wife, whose affair with his best friend shattered their family. She is self-centered, impulsive, and struggling to rebuild her relationship with her children. Sherry's actions force Cole and his kids to confront pain, set boundaries, and ultimately find healing in new connections.

Ross

Ross is Madi's former partner, whose inability to commit and emotional infidelity represent the patterns Madi must break. His reappearance in Cozy Creek is a catalyst for Madi's final break with the past and her embrace of a future built on honesty and self-worth.

Plot Devices

Dual Narration and Alternating Perspectives

The novel alternates between Madi and Cole's perspectives, allowing readers to experience their internal struggles, hopes, and fears firsthand. This structure creates intimacy, heightens tension, and provides insight into misunderstandings and growth. The dual narration also mirrors the theme of two wounded people learning to see and trust each other.

Small-Town Setting as Character

The town of Cozy Creek is more than a backdrop—it is a living, breathing character. Its traditions, gossip, and interconnectedness both complicate and facilitate the protagonists' journey. The bakery, firehouse, and community events serve as crucibles for transformation, while the town's warmth and meddling nudge Madi and Cole toward healing.

Symbolism of Rescue and Renewal

Physical rescues—car breakdowns, cat-in-tree incidents, and fire emergencies—parallel the emotional rescues Madi and Cole perform for each other. These moments symbolize the possibility of starting over, the courage to ask for help, and the power of love to heal old wounds.

Public Declarations and Community Witness

Key moments—such as the bachelor auction, the confrontation with Ross, and the fundraiser—take place in front of the community, forcing the characters to own their feelings and choices. The public nature of these events amplifies stakes, provides comic relief, and ultimately affirms that love, to endure, must be both private and shared.

Foreshadowing and Circular Structure

The novel's opening—Madi stranded on the mountain—foreshadows her emotional journey and the eventual proposal at the same spot. Recurring motifs (peonies, baking, rescue) create a sense of destiny and closure, reinforcing the idea that healing is a process of returning, with new wisdom, to where one began.

Analysis

Fall at Once is a contemporary romance that explores the messy, beautiful process of starting over after heartbreak. Through the intertwined journeys of Madi and Cole, the novel examines themes of vulnerability, self-worth, and the courage required to choose happiness. The small-town setting amplifies both the challenges and the joys of community, reminding readers that healing is rarely solitary. The story's emotional arc is driven by the protagonists' willingness to confront their pasts, articulate their needs, and risk rejection in pursuit of authentic connection. The use of humor, family dynamics, and public spectacle grounds the romance in relatable, everyday struggles, while the recurring motif of rescue—both literal and metaphorical—underscores the transformative power of love. Ultimately, Fall at Once is a celebration of second chances, the importance of chosen family, and the belief that true belonging is found not in perfection, but in the willingness to fall, at once, into the arms of those who see and cherish us as we are.

Last updated: December 6, 2025