*Always Falling Behind* by Beth Gelman
Beth Gelman’s *Always Falling Behind*, the first in the *Dazed and Confused* series, is a delightfully chaotic, charmingly offbeat romantic comedy that embraces neurodivergence, emotional vulnerability, and quirky adventure with wholehearted authenticity. From page one, readers are dropped into the vividly scattered mind of Abigail Farnsworth-Burton—a recently inherited heiress with ADHD, a flair for impulsive decision-making, and a heart that’s far bigger than her organizational skills.
Gelman crafts Abigail’s voice with a rare honesty and effervescence that feels both hilarious and deeply human. Her internal monologue is a constant swirl of overthinking, tangents, and brutally honest self-reflection, creating a protagonist who’s not just relatable, but genuinely refreshing. Despite the over-the-top circumstances—breaking down hundreds of miles from a newly inherited mansion, hitching a ride with a hot, socially awkward stranger, and trying to navigate high society with zero preparation—Abigail’s emotional core remains grounded and believable.
Elias McGinnis, the aforementioned stranger, is a slow-burn gem. While he could’ve easily fallen into the trope of “brooding alpha male,” Gelman subverts expectations by giving readers a love interest who is endearingly awkward, refreshingly respectful, and vulnerably human. His chemistry with Abigail isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, mental, and delightfully awkward in all the right ways.
The novel’s biggest strength lies in its unapologetic portrayal of a neurodivergent woman navigating life, love, and massive change. Abigail’s ADHD isn’t a punchline or a plot obstacle—it’s simply part of who she is. Gelman allows her protagonist to struggle, succeed, and spiral in ways that feel deeply familiar to anyone who’s ever felt out of step with the world’s expectations.
Supporting characters like Amy the Great—Abigail’s imaginary pep-talking chicken—add a layer of quirky humor that balances the deeper emotional undercurrents. And while the plot occasionally drifts, much like Abigail’s attention, it always manages to circle back with heart and purpose.
*Always Falling Behind* is more than just a rom-com—it’s a celebration of messy minds, unexpected connections, and finding your footing in a world that rarely waits for you to catch up. Funny, steamy, and fiercely inclusive, it’s a joyride through the beautifully disorganized chaos of love and self-discovery.
Book link;https://www.amazon.com/Always-Falling-Behind-Beth-Gelman/dp/B0DQR1PGC8
