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Your Last First Kiss
From Amazon best-selling author Avery Maxwell comes a small-town billionaire romance with a sweet cinnamon roll hero who falls first, a strong single mom determined to protect her heart, and a friends-to-lovers journey that proves the best love stories are worth waiting for.
My name is Penny Mulligan and my life is a mess.
After a disastrous marriage that left me with three perfect, rowdy boys and an ex-husband whose middle name might as well be Trouble, I’ve got more than enough testosterone in my life. I’m absolutely not getting involved with anyone.
Besides, at the end of the day when I collapse into bed, I’m too exhausted to think sexy thoughts. Except maybe about the one man who makes my life just a little easier…Mr. Wednesday, a.k.a. Dillon Henry.
Handsome, charming, thoughtful—the man is fantasy material.
And not just because he brings me my favorite coffee every Wednesday when he meets with my boss.
I’ll be ready to date again…someday…maybe after my boys are in college and I finally have the energy to think about myself. For now, I’m content to stick to my late-night fantasies about a certain coffee-bringing, suit-wearing flirt.
At least, that’s what I tell myself until Dillon Freaking Henry shows up on my doorstep in my hometown, demanding that I let him out of the friend zone.
He’s not intimidated by the fact that I’m a package deal or that my calendar is chaos or that my ex is a monumental pain in the…neck. Nope. Dillon is determined to change my mind.
Part of me almost hopes he can.
My name is Penny Mulligan and my life is a mess.
After a disastrous marriage that left me with three perfect, rowdy boys and an ex-husband whose middle name might as well be Trouble, I’ve got more than enough testosterone in my life. I’m absolutely not getting involved with anyone.
Besides, at the end of the day when I collapse into bed, I’m too exhausted to think sexy thoughts. Except maybe about the one man who makes my life just a little easier…Mr. Wednesday, a.k.a. Dillon Henry.
Handsome, charming, thoughtful—the man is fantasy material.
And not just because he brings me my favorite coffee every Wednesday when he meets with my boss.
I’ll be ready to date again…someday…maybe after my boys are in college and I finally have the energy to think about myself. For now, I’m content to stick to my late-night fantasies about a certain coffee-bringing, suit-wearing flirt.
At least, that’s what I tell myself until Dillon Freaking Henry shows up on my doorstep in my hometown, demanding that I let him out of the friend zone.
He’s not intimidated by the fact that I’m a package deal or that my calendar is chaos or that my ex is a monumental pain in the…neck. Nope. Dillon is determined to change my mind.
Part of me almost hopes he can.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2023
2165 people are currently reading
4061 people want to read
About the author
Avery Maxwell
21 books1,031 followersHi, I’m Avery!
I write steamy small towns with big found families—the kind of romances that make your heart race and your soul sigh.
My books, like The Westbrooks, Single Dad Hotline, and Happiness Ever After series, are filled with swoon-worthy heroes, messy but lovable heroines, and small towns you’ll want to call home.
When I'm not writing, I live in joyful chaos with my husband and four kids. You can usually find me cheering on the sidelines at their sporting events, sneaking in writing sprints, or slipping into coffee shops for my daily caffeine fix.
I luv connecting with readers, so join me in The Luv Club (my reader group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/Avery...
Or through my weekly newsletter, The Luv Notes—because in my world, there’s always room at the table for one more luv story: https://geni.us/TheLuvNotes
You can also find me on Instagram and TikTok:
https://www.instagram.com/averymaxwel...
https://www.tiktok.com/@averymaxwell_...
I write steamy small towns with big found families—the kind of romances that make your heart race and your soul sigh.
My books, like The Westbrooks, Single Dad Hotline, and Happiness Ever After series, are filled with swoon-worthy heroes, messy but lovable heroines, and small towns you’ll want to call home.
When I'm not writing, I live in joyful chaos with my husband and four kids. You can usually find me cheering on the sidelines at their sporting events, sneaking in writing sprints, or slipping into coffee shops for my daily caffeine fix.
I luv connecting with readers, so join me in The Luv Club (my reader group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/Avery...
Or through my weekly newsletter, The Luv Notes—because in my world, there’s always room at the table for one more luv story: https://geni.us/TheLuvNotes
You can also find me on Instagram and TikTok:
https://www.instagram.com/averymaxwel...
https://www.tiktok.com/@averymaxwell_...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 475 reviews
May 27, 2023
4.25 ⭐️s for one of the sweetest books i’ve ever read 😭
penny is the assistant to a billionaire that dillon does security for. every wednesday, dillon has a meeting with her boss and every wednesday, he goes an hour early just so he can spend that time with penny. she reciprocates his feeling but she’s a single mom of three with a terrible ex husband and doesn’t want to make time for her own needs.
this man spent the entire book proving that he loved her and her kids and would do whatever it takes to make their lives better and be apart of it. like literally just the sweetest book ever. it deals with heavier topics so definitely check the warnings but so so good. reminded me of one percent of you a bit.
penny is the assistant to a billionaire that dillon does security for. every wednesday, dillon has a meeting with her boss and every wednesday, he goes an hour early just so he can spend that time with penny. she reciprocates his feeling but she’s a single mom of three with a terrible ex husband and doesn’t want to make time for her own needs.
this man spent the entire book proving that he loved her and her kids and would do whatever it takes to make their lives better and be apart of it. like literally just the sweetest book ever. it deals with heavier topics so definitely check the warnings but so so good. reminded me of one percent of you a bit.
December 31, 2023
** One of my Top 20 of 2023 Picks on www.JeevesReads.com! **
This caught me on the right day, in the right mood, and I was woefully unprepared for how FANTASTIC it was going to be. I've been meaning to check out this new-to-me author, and this seemed like the perfect place to jump in. It's a spinoff from a series, the start of something new, and the community aspect was pretty stellar. But the incredibly swoonworthy, soft, and strong hero steals the show here - he's a man who has been slowly courting his girl for the last three years, steadfast and determined to finally make it out of the friend zone. It only takes one trip to her neighborhood to change everything, and I loved how he embraced every moment. It's not often that I read about a guy who is SO genuinely good; patient, loving, and out to prove that he is worthy of trust. There are tons of heartfelt family moments that made my chest squeeze with emotion, as well as a resilient heroine and a friends to lovers romance that's tender, angsty, swoony, and HOT all at once. It's the kind of read that kept me on my toes, and it felt wholly unique. And wholly engaging. I devoured it in one sitting, and I am eager for more love stories revolving around this tight-knit community - I loved it!
The story follows Penny (42), a single mom of three whose life is overwhelming. Every day is a marathon of cleaning up other people's messes, and she's exhausted just trying to make it by. But every Wednesday she has a cup of coffee with Dillon (39), a co-worker who has become a friend. And while Dillon has made his interest clear on several occasions, Penny hasn't been able to seriously entertain the idea. Dillon has no concept of just how chaotic her life is, and Penny is confident that he would be out the door as soon as he saw her everyday reality. Even a great guy like Dillon has his limits, so Penny has no intention of dragging him into her life... no matter how much she might like to. But when Dillon gives one of Penny's kids a ride home and ends up stranded there until the snow clears, he sees the chaos in all of its glory. And he doesn't run.
I love a broody, grumpy hero as much as the next girl, but sometimes it's exceedingly refreshing to read about a GOOD guy. A warm, friendly, lovable, and endearing man who discovers that he has a protective streak only once he's found his family. Dillon does everything he can to be a great role model to Penny's kids, since he knows they haven't had a lot of that in their lives. The story tackles some heavy topics like an abusive, alcoholic father, and does it in a way that is so mature and uplifting. I had butterflies from all of the sweet, tender moments, but there's also a spicy, intimate love story at the heart of this as well. There are some fan-worthy moments of heat and sexual tension, and I loved that both characters felt real and authentic. Dillon might've been an absolute unicorn of a book boyfriend, but he has his own reasons for being drawn in by Penny's family. The fact that Dillon knew he needed to work for the privilege of being a part of Penny's family was pretty phenomenal, honestly. He cherished the opportunity, and didn't waste it. I loved the found family aspect. This was a richer, more multi-faceted read than I could've anticipated, and I truly did love the whole thing.
This caught me on the right day, in the right mood, and I was woefully unprepared for how FANTASTIC it was going to be. I've been meaning to check out this new-to-me author, and this seemed like the perfect place to jump in. It's a spinoff from a series, the start of something new, and the community aspect was pretty stellar. But the incredibly swoonworthy, soft, and strong hero steals the show here - he's a man who has been slowly courting his girl for the last three years, steadfast and determined to finally make it out of the friend zone. It only takes one trip to her neighborhood to change everything, and I loved how he embraced every moment. It's not often that I read about a guy who is SO genuinely good; patient, loving, and out to prove that he is worthy of trust. There are tons of heartfelt family moments that made my chest squeeze with emotion, as well as a resilient heroine and a friends to lovers romance that's tender, angsty, swoony, and HOT all at once. It's the kind of read that kept me on my toes, and it felt wholly unique. And wholly engaging. I devoured it in one sitting, and I am eager for more love stories revolving around this tight-knit community - I loved it!
The story follows Penny (42), a single mom of three whose life is overwhelming. Every day is a marathon of cleaning up other people's messes, and she's exhausted just trying to make it by. But every Wednesday she has a cup of coffee with Dillon (39), a co-worker who has become a friend. And while Dillon has made his interest clear on several occasions, Penny hasn't been able to seriously entertain the idea. Dillon has no concept of just how chaotic her life is, and Penny is confident that he would be out the door as soon as he saw her everyday reality. Even a great guy like Dillon has his limits, so Penny has no intention of dragging him into her life... no matter how much she might like to. But when Dillon gives one of Penny's kids a ride home and ends up stranded there until the snow clears, he sees the chaos in all of its glory. And he doesn't run.
I love a broody, grumpy hero as much as the next girl, but sometimes it's exceedingly refreshing to read about a GOOD guy. A warm, friendly, lovable, and endearing man who discovers that he has a protective streak only once he's found his family. Dillon does everything he can to be a great role model to Penny's kids, since he knows they haven't had a lot of that in their lives. The story tackles some heavy topics like an abusive, alcoholic father, and does it in a way that is so mature and uplifting. I had butterflies from all of the sweet, tender moments, but there's also a spicy, intimate love story at the heart of this as well. There are some fan-worthy moments of heat and sexual tension, and I loved that both characters felt real and authentic. Dillon might've been an absolute unicorn of a book boyfriend, but he has his own reasons for being drawn in by Penny's family. The fact that Dillon knew he needed to work for the privilege of being a part of Penny's family was pretty phenomenal, honestly. He cherished the opportunity, and didn't waste it. I loved the found family aspect. This was a richer, more multi-faceted read than I could've anticipated, and I truly did love the whole thing.
June 2, 2023
Spoilers ahead 2 stars bumped up because of Dillon and the kids
Penny is the divorced mother of three boys, her ex is a cheater and a drunk and constantly causes problems in her life, her only source of happiness aside from her boys is her Wednesday coffee meet with Dillon. Dillon is a partner in a security company and every Wednesday he has a meeting with Penny's boss. He makes it a point to arrive earlier to spend time chatting with Penny. He's asked her out but her children are her priority and so she shoots him down....until meddling friends get involved and Dillon and Penny see what's been clear to everyone else all along
********
In all honesty I should've loved this book, imagine the H getting to know this woman and just wanting to be a part of her life, so much so that he doesn't even date anyone else I'm the three years of Wednesday meet ups....cute right? #swoon but nope this book actually frustrated me. I get it, I've been in the h's position myself so I get it.... Dating as a single parent is nerve wrecking....but when I see an amazingly devoted man who tries over and over to get her to give him a shot and she just keeps pulling back my understanding of her reasons flies out the window. Three years is more than enough time to figure out whether he's someone she'd like to know or not. Even after he showed up in her town and was his usual amazing self she still held out.... At that point I wanted to shake her! There's nothing wrong with getting to know someone first and then introducing them to the kids🙄 why couldn't she try that?
Then there's the ex, A man who not only cheated on her but who has in recent years become a danger to the kids and you're telling me this woman never considered getting a lawyer and the courts involved??? He was a disgusting human being! A clear danger not only to her kids but to the younger kids he had by the ow!!! It's not until things take a turn for the worse does she start looking to get the law involved! I was so over the mess by that point!
What kept me going was Dillon, though he annoyed me too by just accepting her rejection I liked that he was loyal and steadfast and I absolutely adored his relationship with her kids. I wanted more of them together
All in all not a bad read, I've seen the reviews calling it sweet and it really had some of the cutest moments but it just took so damn long for her to face her feelings I was ready to snatch him up my damn self!
Side note I read this because someone said he's a j/p hero but i.don't quite agree. He was thoroughly devoted but the only Alpha tendencies I saw in him were during the sexy times. He was a dirty talking alpha male which honestly didn't jibe with his nice guy persona. Nevertheless I liked him
Second side note I found it weird that he's a partner in a security company without the usual seal or Marines or something background? Idk it just didn't fit
Honorable mention to Miller! Awesome secondary character
Safety
Definitely safe, I think there was one mention of a woman on a dating app but that's as far as it went. He didn't want anyone else after meeting the h
h had only ever been with her POS ex husband
Please note death of a secondary character, child endangerment and alcohol abuse do feature here
Penny is the divorced mother of three boys, her ex is a cheater and a drunk and constantly causes problems in her life, her only source of happiness aside from her boys is her Wednesday coffee meet with Dillon. Dillon is a partner in a security company and every Wednesday he has a meeting with Penny's boss. He makes it a point to arrive earlier to spend time chatting with Penny. He's asked her out but her children are her priority and so she shoots him down....until meddling friends get involved and Dillon and Penny see what's been clear to everyone else all along
********
In all honesty I should've loved this book, imagine the H getting to know this woman and just wanting to be a part of her life, so much so that he doesn't even date anyone else I'm the three years of Wednesday meet ups....cute right? #swoon but nope this book actually frustrated me. I get it, I've been in the h's position myself so I get it.... Dating as a single parent is nerve wrecking....but when I see an amazingly devoted man who tries over and over to get her to give him a shot and she just keeps pulling back my understanding of her reasons flies out the window. Three years is more than enough time to figure out whether he's someone she'd like to know or not. Even after he showed up in her town and was his usual amazing self she still held out.... At that point I wanted to shake her! There's nothing wrong with getting to know someone first and then introducing them to the kids🙄 why couldn't she try that?
Then there's the ex, A man who not only cheated on her but who has in recent years become a danger to the kids and you're telling me this woman never considered getting a lawyer and the courts involved??? He was a disgusting human being! A clear danger not only to her kids but to the younger kids he had by the ow!!! It's not until things take a turn for the worse does she start looking to get the law involved! I was so over the mess by that point!
What kept me going was Dillon, though he annoyed me too by just accepting her rejection I liked that he was loyal and steadfast and I absolutely adored his relationship with her kids. I wanted more of them together
All in all not a bad read, I've seen the reviews calling it sweet and it really had some of the cutest moments but it just took so damn long for her to face her feelings I was ready to snatch him up my damn self!
Side note I read this because someone said he's a j/p hero but i.don't quite agree. He was thoroughly devoted but the only Alpha tendencies I saw in him were during the sexy times. He was a dirty talking alpha male which honestly didn't jibe with his nice guy persona. Nevertheless I liked him
Second side note I found it weird that he's a partner in a security company without the usual seal or Marines or something background? Idk it just didn't fit
Honorable mention to Miller! Awesome secondary character
Safety
Definitely safe, I think there was one mention of a woman on a dating app but that's as far as it went. He didn't want anyone else after meeting the h
h had only ever been with her POS ex husband
Please note death of a secondary character, child endangerment and alcohol abuse do feature here
April 29, 2023
You thought you were done with Westbrook meddling, didn’t you? Nope. Ashton has a few more tricks up his sleeve, and it’s time for Penny to find her happiness. And for Dillon to let go of the guilt, the misery, and the past haunting him to prove that the woman he wants is worth the world.
These two have danced around each other for three years, so their slow burn toward a possible forever is ready to combust. But there’s a lot of baggage. Penny’s life isn’t pretty. It’s messy and chaotic and a little heartbreaking and OH SO REAL. Every mother can identify with Penny on some level. Single, married, anything in between. She cares for everyone and expects no one to do the same for her. She believes in whole body health and breaks, unless they’re for her. And Dillon? Once he sees all that Penny’s up against, he has to admit that Ashton and a certain guy who loves his suits know him well.
While these two find their way and navigate all that life can throw one’s way, we meet some new faces. Miller is a particular favorite of mine, but the Reid brothers and some dueling coffee lovers will grab you also. The efforts this town makes overall warm the heart, while Dillon and Penny burn the whole place down with their chemistry. Buckle up and enjoy the ride from lonely mom to woman with everyone on her side. You’ll laugh. You may cry. You’ll want to yell. But you’ll also see glimpses of life as we all know it once in a while, so you’ll be eager to see how it all plays out. And then? Then you’ll want to know if Miller gets his girl, too!
These two have danced around each other for three years, so their slow burn toward a possible forever is ready to combust. But there’s a lot of baggage. Penny’s life isn’t pretty. It’s messy and chaotic and a little heartbreaking and OH SO REAL. Every mother can identify with Penny on some level. Single, married, anything in between. She cares for everyone and expects no one to do the same for her. She believes in whole body health and breaks, unless they’re for her. And Dillon? Once he sees all that Penny’s up against, he has to admit that Ashton and a certain guy who loves his suits know him well.
While these two find their way and navigate all that life can throw one’s way, we meet some new faces. Miller is a particular favorite of mine, but the Reid brothers and some dueling coffee lovers will grab you also. The efforts this town makes overall warm the heart, while Dillon and Penny burn the whole place down with their chemistry. Buckle up and enjoy the ride from lonely mom to woman with everyone on her side. You’ll laugh. You may cry. You’ll want to yell. But you’ll also see glimpses of life as we all know it once in a while, so you’ll be eager to see how it all plays out. And then? Then you’ll want to know if Miller gets his girl, too!
Read
January 23, 2026martydom fmc on steroids, i ain't raising my 20-year-long husband's OW's 2 kids which she conceived on our marital bed with my sons inside the house.
FMC also does not seek full custody when the husband is abusive and alcoholic.
FMC also does not seek full custody when the husband is abusive and alcoholic.
May 28, 2023
Worth reading, every minute of it!!!
Holy smokes, Dillon freaking Henry is the man. Where can I get someone like him? 😭 He was the epitome of a walking green flag and the perfect definition of a book boyfriend. Maaaan *sighs* this guy stole my freaking heart, I'm so done for him. Ryan Shay was my #1 book boyfriend so far this year, but I'm not so sure anymore, I'm thinking, nope, I know! Dillon Henry will certainly share that spot too. ❤️
Gaaaawd this man, I can't with him cuz he was just too good. His patience, dedication, support, care, protection, and love not just for Penny but for her kids too was just too adorable to read. I don't know where he got his neverending patience, but dear Lord if some men in fiction would just have an ounce of his character and personality, it certainly would be a slice of heaven.
He carried this book, not saying Penny doesn't have a contribution but Dillon put so much effort in their story. He never gave up and proved himself over and over again to Penny and her kids. Showed them how reliable he is, that he'll always keep his word, and how he's in it for the long haul.
Penny was a likeable character too. She was a good mom, putting her children first all the time that at times she never cared about her own self anymore. Her life revolves around her kids, providing, caring, and loving them. Helping and honing them to grow up as responsible and good people. She was so resilient even after what she went through. This behavior only shows how strong she is as a mother and that there's nothing in this world she wouldn't do for her children.
Dillon and Penny's story was full of bumps, and to be honest there were a lot of difficulties more than sunshine and rainbows. I appreciate how their story panned out for months and how the family dynamics and emotions were portrayed close to reality. It was so refreshing to read that the author truly depicts this kind of situation to something as real as it can get.
This book is full of healing, second chances, and love. Most especially accepting people genuinely and having a new found family. I can't stress this enough, this book is so so much worth reading!!! The story didn't disappoint and if readers give this a chance I'm sure they'll surely fall in love with Dillon too. Gaaaah, I just love them all and I'm having so much energy after reading this. Totally worth it! 😍
Holy smokes, Dillon freaking Henry is the man. Where can I get someone like him? 😭 He was the epitome of a walking green flag and the perfect definition of a book boyfriend. Maaaan *sighs* this guy stole my freaking heart, I'm so done for him. Ryan Shay was my #1 book boyfriend so far this year, but I'm not so sure anymore, I'm thinking, nope, I know! Dillon Henry will certainly share that spot too. ❤️
Gaaaawd this man, I can't with him cuz he was just too good. His patience, dedication, support, care, protection, and love not just for Penny but for her kids too was just too adorable to read. I don't know where he got his neverending patience, but dear Lord if some men in fiction would just have an ounce of his character and personality, it certainly would be a slice of heaven.
He carried this book, not saying Penny doesn't have a contribution but Dillon put so much effort in their story. He never gave up and proved himself over and over again to Penny and her kids. Showed them how reliable he is, that he'll always keep his word, and how he's in it for the long haul.
Penny was a likeable character too. She was a good mom, putting her children first all the time that at times she never cared about her own self anymore. Her life revolves around her kids, providing, caring, and loving them. Helping and honing them to grow up as responsible and good people. She was so resilient even after what she went through. This behavior only shows how strong she is as a mother and that there's nothing in this world she wouldn't do for her children.
Dillon and Penny's story was full of bumps, and to be honest there were a lot of difficulties more than sunshine and rainbows. I appreciate how their story panned out for months and how the family dynamics and emotions were portrayed close to reality. It was so refreshing to read that the author truly depicts this kind of situation to something as real as it can get.
This book is full of healing, second chances, and love. Most especially accepting people genuinely and having a new found family. I can't stress this enough, this book is so so much worth reading!!! The story didn't disappoint and if readers give this a chance I'm sure they'll surely fall in love with Dillon too. Gaaaah, I just love them all and I'm having so much energy after reading this. Totally worth it! 😍
July 13, 2023
Dillon and Penny are the real deal!
Penny is a struggling single mom with three boys. Her ex-husband has put her in a precarious situation adding to her struggle to raise her sons in the small town of Chance Lake. The townsfolk are everything you want in a small town- quirky, lovable and protective.
Penny works for Lochlan Blaine ( from Without a Hitch). Every Wednesday Dillon Henry meets with Lochlan, spending time getting to know Penny over three years. He wants what she feels she can't give- her time, her heart, her soul. He wants to be her last first everything. In a bold move, with a push from a Westbrook brother, Dillon leaves the city, the company Envision and moves to Chance Lake to take over a community center. He also has to convince Penny, her kids and the entire town that he is there to stay and be part of the community.
This story is about a woman who is trying to be it all and survive and a man trying to show her that he can be part of her world. It is told so poignantly that you are rooting for Dillon's persistence while understanding Penny's need to protect her heart and family. Maxwell mixes humor and heart so perfectly with real characters that you wish were your friends. I would so sit with Penny and have a coffee at one of the two feuding coffee shops in the fictional town. { IYKYK} The romance, banter and steamy scenes are balanced perfectly. Dirty talking Dillon is just as amazing as the heartbroken and hurting Dillon. Perfectly human in an imaginary man. Best kind of book boyfriend. Dillon may have found his family, but he is going to have to fight for it with everything he has and even somethings he didn't know he needed.
Avery Maxwell's stories include friendship,humor, romance, and family. The wonderful thing about the families in her stories are that they are not all just related by blood. Found family is at the heart of her romances. If you are unfamiliar with found family, it simply means those people -outside of blood relatives- are so much a part of your heart and soul that they are your family too. They are the ones you turn to in your darkest moments and the ones who celebrate you for being you. Found family is the basis of the Westbrook family series , Without a Hitch and it carries on here in Your Last First Kiss. While Your Last First Kiss have characters from other books mentioned, this is an entire new world of Maxwell's mind and heart. Fall in love with Dillon and Penny, I did.
Penny is a struggling single mom with three boys. Her ex-husband has put her in a precarious situation adding to her struggle to raise her sons in the small town of Chance Lake. The townsfolk are everything you want in a small town- quirky, lovable and protective.
Penny works for Lochlan Blaine ( from Without a Hitch). Every Wednesday Dillon Henry meets with Lochlan, spending time getting to know Penny over three years. He wants what she feels she can't give- her time, her heart, her soul. He wants to be her last first everything. In a bold move, with a push from a Westbrook brother, Dillon leaves the city, the company Envision and moves to Chance Lake to take over a community center. He also has to convince Penny, her kids and the entire town that he is there to stay and be part of the community.
This story is about a woman who is trying to be it all and survive and a man trying to show her that he can be part of her world. It is told so poignantly that you are rooting for Dillon's persistence while understanding Penny's need to protect her heart and family. Maxwell mixes humor and heart so perfectly with real characters that you wish were your friends. I would so sit with Penny and have a coffee at one of the two feuding coffee shops in the fictional town. { IYKYK} The romance, banter and steamy scenes are balanced perfectly. Dirty talking Dillon is just as amazing as the heartbroken and hurting Dillon. Perfectly human in an imaginary man. Best kind of book boyfriend. Dillon may have found his family, but he is going to have to fight for it with everything he has and even somethings he didn't know he needed.
Avery Maxwell's stories include friendship,humor, romance, and family. The wonderful thing about the families in her stories are that they are not all just related by blood. Found family is at the heart of her romances. If you are unfamiliar with found family, it simply means those people -outside of blood relatives- are so much a part of your heart and soul that they are your family too. They are the ones you turn to in your darkest moments and the ones who celebrate you for being you. Found family is the basis of the Westbrook family series , Without a Hitch and it carries on here in Your Last First Kiss. While Your Last First Kiss have characters from other books mentioned, this is an entire new world of Maxwell's mind and heart. Fall in love with Dillon and Penny, I did.
June 28, 2023
This book was okay... Dillon was to pushy, it was cute with Penny because of the romance but he forced his opinion and himself into the kids lives when it wasn't his place, there was a scene where Kai got mad because his entire school knew his mom and her boyfriend were doing it in a room at a town meeting and Penny got mad at him... he found out his mom is dating someone through other people telling him about her sex life, the boy is raising all his siblings and he has to worry about his mom, a 42 year old woman doing things with a man in public places, and he gets grounded for voicing his opinion?????
I'm sorry but I literally got so mad because this poor boy is dealing with so much only to have this man push his way into this family and Penny was awful, she did good things with the kids but just made an effort to make things more dramatic then it needed to be. All the kids were dealing with enough and she continued to pile onto it throughout the whole book!!
Dillon was frankly creepy... he was telling the kids he loves them and is going to be in there lives forever within the first couple weeks, he patented penny's kids within the first month of them dating, keep in mind none of the kids knew they were dating so he was basically just being bossy and controlling but the author did it in such a way that it looked like he did it so Penny didn't have to, he acted like that so the mother didnt have to parent....Penny mentioned how all of the kids changed and "aren't themselves" but this woman, who acts like a child, didn't have the brains to realize everything got worse after Dillon showed up!! The whole start of the book was her saying "my kids are my top priority" but they weren't Dillon was. She in the room, with her abusive, alcoholic ex husband, who just got out of jail for hurting her son, and she thought now, in this very building would be the perfect time to show my non-official boyfriend how much I love him by sucking him off instead of going home to her children to make sure their okay because she left a traumatized 15 year old in charge of 4 kids that weren't his, after his father hurt him bad enough that he needed stitches!!
This book has cute quotes and a romantic MC but brushes off all the important stuff, Kai was dealing with things for months and Penny just left it and through herself a pity party
She misses how her kids were before, life's so unfair for her because she can't sleep with her boyfriend, but she doesn't do anything for months to make sure her kids are okay!! The one son literally says "mom cries in the closet because she thinks we can't hear" and the matter never gets brought up again!!! When Dillon asks if she's thought about therapy for the kids she tells him it's never crosses her mind. This book was a waste of my time and I continued to read it because the ratings were so high but honestly it was awful. Miller and Kai were the most realistic characters everyone else was just written in a way to boost Dillon and penny's characters into looking like couple goals and perfect people
I'm sorry but I literally got so mad because this poor boy is dealing with so much only to have this man push his way into this family and Penny was awful, she did good things with the kids but just made an effort to make things more dramatic then it needed to be. All the kids were dealing with enough and she continued to pile onto it throughout the whole book!!
Dillon was frankly creepy... he was telling the kids he loves them and is going to be in there lives forever within the first couple weeks, he patented penny's kids within the first month of them dating, keep in mind none of the kids knew they were dating so he was basically just being bossy and controlling but the author did it in such a way that it looked like he did it so Penny didn't have to, he acted like that so the mother didnt have to parent....Penny mentioned how all of the kids changed and "aren't themselves" but this woman, who acts like a child, didn't have the brains to realize everything got worse after Dillon showed up!! The whole start of the book was her saying "my kids are my top priority" but they weren't Dillon was. She in the room, with her abusive, alcoholic ex husband, who just got out of jail for hurting her son, and she thought now, in this very building would be the perfect time to show my non-official boyfriend how much I love him by sucking him off instead of going home to her children to make sure their okay because she left a traumatized 15 year old in charge of 4 kids that weren't his, after his father hurt him bad enough that he needed stitches!!
This book has cute quotes and a romantic MC but brushes off all the important stuff, Kai was dealing with things for months and Penny just left it and through herself a pity party
She misses how her kids were before, life's so unfair for her because she can't sleep with her boyfriend, but she doesn't do anything for months to make sure her kids are okay!! The one son literally says "mom cries in the closet because she thinks we can't hear" and the matter never gets brought up again!!! When Dillon asks if she's thought about therapy for the kids she tells him it's never crosses her mind. This book was a waste of my time and I continued to read it because the ratings were so high but honestly it was awful. Miller and Kai were the most realistic characters everyone else was just written in a way to boost Dillon and penny's characters into looking like couple goals and perfect people
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2023
After I read Without A Hitch, that was it for me. I immediately read my way through the back catalog of this gifted storyteller and fell in love with all things Westbrook. And while we don’t get a lot of the Westbrook brothers in this spin-off, we certainly see their influence and their true heart.
Dillon Henry has worked for Ashton Westbrook's security company, Envision, for several years, but unbeknownst to Dillon, it's time for a major change in his life. The small New England town of Chance Lake needs Dillon's particular skill set, and it turns out Dillon needs Chance Lake just as much. And if it regularly puts him in the same place as his Wednesday Girl, all the better.
Penny Mulligan enjoys her visits with Dillon when he comes to meet with her boss each Wednesday. She dreams of more, but her reality is a mess. She's barely keeping her head above water working a job in the city, parenting her three boys, and dealing with her horrible ex-husband. And his too-young girlfriend. And their two neglected daughters. When Dillon shows up in Chance Lake, all that changes.
No, the mess doesn’t magically disappear. In fact, it gets worse. So much worse. But Dillon is determined to earn trust and show he’s there for the long haul. He'll share Penny's burden, be there for her boys, and support her in every endeavor. And through his friendship with Penny's brother-in-law, Miller, and wisdom from an old soul named Remy, Dillon may just find his place in the world where he can really make a difference in his community.
This one ruined me in the sweetest and best of ways and then gave my heart wings. I love the themes of finding yourself, a sense of community, found family, and choosing to frame your own future. And the best of all, learning to trust and rely on someone else.
I swear, everything Avery Maxwell writes is drenched in heart and kissed by magic. Her stories are charming and captivating, her characters are authentic, endearing, and eternally relatable, and my heart is soaring and satisfied when I finish one of her books. Penny and Dillon's masterful story will live in my soul forever, and you won’t want to miss a word of it!
Dillon Henry has worked for Ashton Westbrook's security company, Envision, for several years, but unbeknownst to Dillon, it's time for a major change in his life. The small New England town of Chance Lake needs Dillon's particular skill set, and it turns out Dillon needs Chance Lake just as much. And if it regularly puts him in the same place as his Wednesday Girl, all the better.
Penny Mulligan enjoys her visits with Dillon when he comes to meet with her boss each Wednesday. She dreams of more, but her reality is a mess. She's barely keeping her head above water working a job in the city, parenting her three boys, and dealing with her horrible ex-husband. And his too-young girlfriend. And their two neglected daughters. When Dillon shows up in Chance Lake, all that changes.
No, the mess doesn’t magically disappear. In fact, it gets worse. So much worse. But Dillon is determined to earn trust and show he’s there for the long haul. He'll share Penny's burden, be there for her boys, and support her in every endeavor. And through his friendship with Penny's brother-in-law, Miller, and wisdom from an old soul named Remy, Dillon may just find his place in the world where he can really make a difference in his community.
This one ruined me in the sweetest and best of ways and then gave my heart wings. I love the themes of finding yourself, a sense of community, found family, and choosing to frame your own future. And the best of all, learning to trust and rely on someone else.
I swear, everything Avery Maxwell writes is drenched in heart and kissed by magic. Her stories are charming and captivating, her characters are authentic, endearing, and eternally relatable, and my heart is soaring and satisfied when I finish one of her books. Penny and Dillon's masterful story will live in my soul forever, and you won’t want to miss a word of it!
March 20, 2024
Dnf @ 28%/ 12 chapters
There were descriptions that were just so weird and I really hated… well, everyone. Dillon says cute and romantic stuff, but is frankly a bit weird while Penny is queen misery who takes on more than she can manage while denying herself pleasures. Martyr for real. Also, I understand trying to help out, but she and Miller should have been documenting everything wrong with Eddy and Astor to give to CPS because not having formula for a baby so many times 2 different people grab extra formula to have on hand is absolutely absurd.
This isn’t sweet or cute the book is just a drag and everyone’s lives suck I get it! I was either bored or rolling my eyes.
There were descriptions that were just so weird and I really hated… well, everyone. Dillon says cute and romantic stuff, but is frankly a bit weird while Penny is queen misery who takes on more than she can manage while denying herself pleasures. Martyr for real. Also, I understand trying to help out, but she and Miller should have been documenting everything wrong with Eddy and Astor to give to CPS because not having formula for a baby so many times 2 different people grab extra formula to have on hand is absolutely absurd.
This isn’t sweet or cute the book is just a drag and everyone’s lives suck I get it! I was either bored or rolling my eyes.
May 4, 2023
Dillon and Penny are absolute perfection and I can’t wait for more books in this series about small town Chance Lake. Avery Maxwell is the queen of writing romances with found family and this is no exception. Things to look forward to in this book:
Small town romance ✔️
Single mom ✔️
He falls first ✔️
Well off hero ✔️
Complicated heroine ✔️
Found family ✔️
Adorable kids ✔️
Lots of great side characters ✔️
There are ties to Maxwell’s other books, however it is not necessary to read before this book. It will just enhance your reading experience.
Single mom Penny has three kids, works for Lochlan Blaine, and has an alcoholic ex-husband who makes hers and her kids life hard.
Dillon works for Ashton’s (previous Maxwell character) security company and works closely with Lochlan’s company. So much so that he has a standing meeting with Lochlan every week. But Dillon arrives an hour early every week to have coffee with his complicate dream girl Penny. They have been playing this game with their feelings for three years now and Dillon has the patience of a saint. He is willing to do whatever it takes for Penny to be ready.
Penny’s life is a hot mess express and she holds the weight of the world are her shoulders. More so with her ex-husband being the absolute worst and his girlfriend depending on Penny to help take care of his kids with the girlfriend. I give Penny all of the credit in the world for what she has gone through. And when an opportunity presents itself, Dillon wants to be there for Penny in every way possible.
This book is so much more than a romance - I actually felt like the romance between Penny and Dillon took a backseat to all of the other issues going on, mainly things to do with Penny’s ex-husband and all of the destruction that he leaves in his path. Dillon is top tier and might be my new favorite of Avery’s (sorry Dex!!). He does everything in his power to be Penny’s rock and when she finally gives in to accept that, it’s magical.
Now this review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Miller. My god Miller. I cannot wait for his book to be written. He was so much more than a side character - he was essential to this plot and he deserves all the good things in the world.
Small town romance ✔️
Single mom ✔️
He falls first ✔️
Well off hero ✔️
Complicated heroine ✔️
Found family ✔️
Adorable kids ✔️
Lots of great side characters ✔️
There are ties to Maxwell’s other books, however it is not necessary to read before this book. It will just enhance your reading experience.
Single mom Penny has three kids, works for Lochlan Blaine, and has an alcoholic ex-husband who makes hers and her kids life hard.
Dillon works for Ashton’s (previous Maxwell character) security company and works closely with Lochlan’s company. So much so that he has a standing meeting with Lochlan every week. But Dillon arrives an hour early every week to have coffee with his complicate dream girl Penny. They have been playing this game with their feelings for three years now and Dillon has the patience of a saint. He is willing to do whatever it takes for Penny to be ready.
Penny’s life is a hot mess express and she holds the weight of the world are her shoulders. More so with her ex-husband being the absolute worst and his girlfriend depending on Penny to help take care of his kids with the girlfriend. I give Penny all of the credit in the world for what she has gone through. And when an opportunity presents itself, Dillon wants to be there for Penny in every way possible.
This book is so much more than a romance - I actually felt like the romance between Penny and Dillon took a backseat to all of the other issues going on, mainly things to do with Penny’s ex-husband and all of the destruction that he leaves in his path. Dillon is top tier and might be my new favorite of Avery’s (sorry Dex!!). He does everything in his power to be Penny’s rock and when she finally gives in to accept that, it’s magical.
Now this review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Miller. My god Miller. I cannot wait for his book to be written. He was so much more than a side character - he was essential to this plot and he deserves all the good things in the world.
April 30, 2023
A triumph!
This is Avery Maxwell’s best book yet, and that’s saying a lot because her debut was magnificent. In this latest offering, we set up house in Chance Lake with Dillon Henry and Penny Mulligan, who have had Wednesday “dates” for years as Dillon meets with Penny’s boss once a week as head of security. What Penny doesn’t know is that Dillon has loved Penny from afar since the first time he saw her. What Dillon doesn’t know is just what a catastrophe Penny’s home life is. We’re not talking about just a hot mess here.
Dillon is a total dreamboat, what could be more attractive than a guy that falls first? Who's all in no matter what he finds in Penny’s world? And it’s a lot. Penny’s background makes it impossible for her to trust anyone, only caring about being the best mom to her three sons. Without giving too much away, it’s those three sons that are the heart and soul of this story, and the impetus, the gravitas, and the pure sentimentality. And Penny, oh my stars. What a strong soul, desperately trying to show her sons that there is good in the world.
When Dillon and Penny make their connection it’s as if both their worlds collide in a beautiful shower of sparks, I’m still blinded by the visceral emotion in this story. This book is not to be missed!
This is Avery Maxwell’s best book yet, and that’s saying a lot because her debut was magnificent. In this latest offering, we set up house in Chance Lake with Dillon Henry and Penny Mulligan, who have had Wednesday “dates” for years as Dillon meets with Penny’s boss once a week as head of security. What Penny doesn’t know is that Dillon has loved Penny from afar since the first time he saw her. What Dillon doesn’t know is just what a catastrophe Penny’s home life is. We’re not talking about just a hot mess here.
Dillon is a total dreamboat, what could be more attractive than a guy that falls first? Who's all in no matter what he finds in Penny’s world? And it’s a lot. Penny’s background makes it impossible for her to trust anyone, only caring about being the best mom to her three sons. Without giving too much away, it’s those three sons that are the heart and soul of this story, and the impetus, the gravitas, and the pure sentimentality. And Penny, oh my stars. What a strong soul, desperately trying to show her sons that there is good in the world.
When Dillon and Penny make their connection it’s as if both their worlds collide in a beautiful shower of sparks, I’m still blinded by the visceral emotion in this story. This book is not to be missed!
May 10, 2023
This is my first Avery Maxwell book. It definitely will not be my last. I loved everything about this book and story. Dillon and Penny are both older main characters, which is so refreshing. Dillon is 39 and Penny is 42 years old, divorced and has three boys. Her life is not easy. She commutes two hours each day to New York for her job where each Wednesday she gets to spend time with Dillon Henry.
Dillon loves his Wednesday time with Penny. He would love for more with her, but he knows her life is complicated and chaotic with her children and her drunk ex-husband. Dillon has wanted Penny for three years. He is so patient and just about the perfect book boyfriend. Swoon worthy for sure.
This is such a beautiful, emotional friends to lovers story about finding your place, your family, and your community-a place where you belong and didn't know you were needing. Chance Lake is a small town filled with memorable characters (whose story I can see this author writing about.) I highly recommend this story. I must go back and read the beginning books now.
Thank you to @rick_283 and @averymaxwellbooks for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dillon loves his Wednesday time with Penny. He would love for more with her, but he knows her life is complicated and chaotic with her children and her drunk ex-husband. Dillon has wanted Penny for three years. He is so patient and just about the perfect book boyfriend. Swoon worthy for sure.
This is such a beautiful, emotional friends to lovers story about finding your place, your family, and your community-a place where you belong and didn't know you were needing. Chance Lake is a small town filled with memorable characters (whose story I can see this author writing about.) I highly recommend this story. I must go back and read the beginning books now.
Thank you to @rick_283 and @averymaxwellbooks for an advanced readers copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 4, 2024
3.5⭐️
This book was okay. There were parts of this book that made me want to give it a 4 star rating but overall it felt very slow. I felt that there was focus on things that I personally didn’t care for. In the beginning it was very drawn out.
This book was okay. There were parts of this book that made me want to give it a 4 star rating but overall it felt very slow. I felt that there was focus on things that I personally didn’t care for. In the beginning it was very drawn out.
June 23, 2023
2.5 stars ⭐️
I was pretty excited going into this book, I saw someone recommend it on TikTok and it sounded intriguing but sadly, it just fell short for me.
I want to preface this by saying that most times, I’m not a huge fan of angst. I like happy, love filled moments way more than I like the push and pull and will they won’t they. Most of the book was pretty repetitive. Dillon would say he wants to be with Penny and her family and she would have doubts because of her ex husband. Then it would happen again. And again. And again. And again. I completely understand why Penny acted and felt the way she did, and it was very realistic but I got too frustrated.
I also felt like a lot of the things Dillon said (especially to Kai) were also very repetitive.
On the plus side, Dillon was a great hero. He was so understanding and honestly a little too perfect, which made me really like him.
I was pretty excited going into this book, I saw someone recommend it on TikTok and it sounded intriguing but sadly, it just fell short for me.
I want to preface this by saying that most times, I’m not a huge fan of angst. I like happy, love filled moments way more than I like the push and pull and will they won’t they. Most of the book was pretty repetitive. Dillon would say he wants to be with Penny and her family and she would have doubts because of her ex husband. Then it would happen again. And again. And again. And again. I completely understand why Penny acted and felt the way she did, and it was very realistic but I got too frustrated.
I also felt like a lot of the things Dillon said (especially to Kai) were also very repetitive.
On the plus side, Dillon was a great hero. He was so understanding and honestly a little too perfect, which made me really like him.
weak-spiness-fmc
January 22, 2026note : the fmc ends up raising her cheating ex and his side piece's kids cuz they're deadbeat parents 😐😐😐 i like my scorned ladies vengeful not mother theresas
May 1, 2023
“I see a queen who hasn’t yet learned that she holds all the power, and I can’t wait to see you when you finally fix your crown”
This sweet, sexy, emotional 5 ⭐️ stand-alone Welcome to Chance Lake!
Dillon and Penny’s road to their HEA wasn’t easy but through Dillons consistent love and showing up for not just Penny, her boys, and the community built trust which is acknowledged throughout this heartwarming, sweet, funny, and emotional book that trust is earned and love shows up. This book explores the wounds and realities that come along with experiences with addiction, being a single parent, self doubt, chosen family, leaning on each other and LOVE.
Avery Maxwell has outdid herself once again ❤️🌶️
This sweet, sexy, emotional 5 ⭐️ stand-alone Welcome to Chance Lake!
Dillon and Penny’s road to their HEA wasn’t easy but through Dillons consistent love and showing up for not just Penny, her boys, and the community built trust which is acknowledged throughout this heartwarming, sweet, funny, and emotional book that trust is earned and love shows up. This book explores the wounds and realities that come along with experiences with addiction, being a single parent, self doubt, chosen family, leaning on each other and LOVE.
Avery Maxwell has outdid herself once again ❤️🌶️
May 9, 2023
Penny has her hands full with three young boys she is raising on her own. Her one saving grace is the weekly coffee “dates” she has with the handsome Dillon Henry every Wednesday who stops by to see her boss. Can Penny give love another shot or are her walls too high to let another in? What a feel good romance about giving love a second chance. Plenty of sweet & silly moments happen between Penny, Dillon and all the other characters. There is also an emotional aspect with all Penny is dealing with. Get cozy and open your heart to love again! This can be read as a stand-alone & is told in dual POV
June 9, 2023
3.5⭐️
July 17, 2024
Gah! 🫠 This man ❤️
If you want a total golden retriever- here ya go! 3 years pinning for the girl to give him his shot. 🥰
The way he is with her and the kids.... all the YESes!
42FMC, 39MMC, oldest child is 14M with 2-4 other younger siblings. (Complicated 😆)
If you want a total golden retriever- here ya go! 3 years pinning for the girl to give him his shot. 🥰
The way he is with her and the kids.... all the YESes!
42FMC, 39MMC, oldest child is 14M with 2-4 other younger siblings. (Complicated 😆)
August 5, 2023
3.5/5 sentí que estaba leyendo este libro por siempre!! Siento que leí +300 páginas de la misma conversación una y otra vez (Dillon queriendo una oportunidad para ganarse la confianza de Penny y sus hijos y Penny insegura) esta centrado principalmente en el found family, pero Dios mío, había muchos personajes aquí, el romance es lindo, un poco cursi , Dillon básicamente haría cualquier cosa por Penny y sus hijos, incluso por Miller (él fue mi favorito, me recordó a Kenji), de todas formas me alegra que se hayan encontrado
July 7, 2023
3.75 stars
June 27, 2023
DNF at 30%.
Life’s too short to read bad books.
This book was so weird on so many levels and I didn’t even get through half of it, so that should explain everything.
If you expect a cute romance with a single mom, a meet cute and everything, then save your time, because this is not it. You get in the book when they already like/love each other, when he’s “courting” her for three years already. There’s not meet cute, nothing.
He keeps telling her from the first chapters that he likes her, that he wants to be part of her “mess”. I read like 10 chapters of this book, and in all his POV he was saying the same thing EVERY TIME. And in her POV she’s always “I want you too but”. It’s annoying honestly, I felt like half of the book was missing.
You can’t get an attachment to the couple or their dynamic because the author simply decided to deny you of it.
This book is also a lot confusing imo, there’s a lot of kids involved, she has three boys from her previous marriage, but at the same time she’s kinda taking care of two little girls that her ex-husband had with another woman. Then there’s all their friends/bosses that get in their business, always giving their opinion and trying to put the MCs together. And don’t let me start on the work dynamic, it’s so bad explained that I still don’t understand what their jobs are.
I’m surprised by the rating of this book, because it’s so bad I can’t even understand how can it reach two stars. Am I begin too harsh? Maybe, but again, life’s short for bad books.
Life’s too short to read bad books.
This book was so weird on so many levels and I didn’t even get through half of it, so that should explain everything.
If you expect a cute romance with a single mom, a meet cute and everything, then save your time, because this is not it. You get in the book when they already like/love each other, when he’s “courting” her for three years already. There’s not meet cute, nothing.
He keeps telling her from the first chapters that he likes her, that he wants to be part of her “mess”. I read like 10 chapters of this book, and in all his POV he was saying the same thing EVERY TIME. And in her POV she’s always “I want you too but”. It’s annoying honestly, I felt like half of the book was missing.
You can’t get an attachment to the couple or their dynamic because the author simply decided to deny you of it.
This book is also a lot confusing imo, there’s a lot of kids involved, she has three boys from her previous marriage, but at the same time she’s kinda taking care of two little girls that her ex-husband had with another woman. Then there’s all their friends/bosses that get in their business, always giving their opinion and trying to put the MCs together. And don’t let me start on the work dynamic, it’s so bad explained that I still don’t understand what their jobs are.
I’m surprised by the rating of this book, because it’s so bad I can’t even understand how can it reach two stars. Am I begin too harsh? Maybe, but again, life’s short for bad books.
May 1, 2023
5*+
I've loved Dillion since his character appeared in the Westbrook series and was so desperate for his book.
Dillion has formed a Wednesday friendship with Landon's secretary Penny, fetching her coffee and listening to her and her boys lives.
Penny's job means the world to her along with her 3 children having an alcoholic ex hasn't made things easy, but she's determined to make the best of things.
I loved this story the way Dillion understood and was determined to show Penny and the boys how life should be. Absolutely fantastic couldn't put it down!
I've loved Dillion since his character appeared in the Westbrook series and was so desperate for his book.
Dillion has formed a Wednesday friendship with Landon's secretary Penny, fetching her coffee and listening to her and her boys lives.
Penny's job means the world to her along with her 3 children having an alcoholic ex hasn't made things easy, but she's determined to make the best of things.
I loved this story the way Dillion understood and was determined to show Penny and the boys how life should be. Absolutely fantastic couldn't put it down!
May 2, 2023
Dillion Henry had been sleepwalking through his life and didn’t even like his job with Envision Security working with Ashton Westbrook but didn’t realize it until Ashton decides to play fairy god father and helped his friend find happiness. Dillion has danced around Penny Mulligan for 3 years bringing her coffee every Wednesday when he visits Lachlan her boss with the weekly security reports. This is a #Singlemomromance and a #Sweetsmalltownromance. Dillion is Penny’s king and she’s his Queen. A must read for the summer.
May 28, 2023
4.25/5
-
What an emotional love story where he falls first, and he falls HARD
I loved how mature these two were and how they communicated so much!
He was a man in love and was willing to wait for her for the rest of his life if he had to.
Full of so many sweet, sentimental moments not only between the two main characters, but him & her children and the people she loved most.
I read it in one sitting, it just made my heart so happy
-
What an emotional love story where he falls first, and he falls HARD
I loved how mature these two were and how they communicated so much!
He was a man in love and was willing to wait for her for the rest of his life if he had to.
Full of so many sweet, sentimental moments not only between the two main characters, but him & her children and the people she loved most.
I read it in one sitting, it just made my heart so happy
June 17, 2023
This was terrible. The way the reader was supposed to buy into a love story years in the making when there was no heat - just sexual harassment? The FMC gets sent to his apartment, where he is clad only in a towel, commands her to stay, touches her when she isn’t comfortable with it, and demands things from her? Eww.
I gave this book a shot, and it missed the mark. Save yourself.
I gave this book a shot, and it missed the mark. Save yourself.
April 25, 2024
This story falls late in the Westbrook's series by this author. This is a standalone but several side characters are mentioned from the series.**
4.5 stars
They have shared an hour together over coffee once a week for 3 years. He is in his early 40's, complacent and in need of a purpose. She has a great job but hides an extremely messy personal life. They have strong feelings for each other but need the right timing to try to be more.
Dillion Henry has a lucrative job but no one to share it with. He grew up in a broken home but as a teen was able to have found family that gave him hope. His foundation is built on those meaningful relationships. Dillion has tried to date but there is only one woman for him and she doesn't have room for him. Once a week for the past 3 years Dillion shares coffee with Penny, his "Wednesday Girl." He is a patient man, willing to wait for her, but his friends have plans to move that timeline forward.
Penny Mulligan married her high school sweetheart. They had children together and were married for several years until he turned her life upside down by having an affair. It's been a few years since the divorce but her ex-husband's problems haunt her daily. As a single mom who works full time she barely has time for herself let alone any time of romantic relationship. Her time spent with "Mr Wednesday" is the highlight of her week. She would love to take their relationship to the next level, especially since he has asked, but her private life would make even the strongest of men run for their life.
Dillion feels like his best friend is up to something. He finds himself wondering if he should look for a new career when he is suddenly thrust into Penny's real life. Once he gets a peek into her life in her hometown, he feels a strong desire to jump in with both feet. Dillion goes through a lot the first couple days stranded in Penny's small town but he feels like this could be a place he calls home.
Penny cannot believe Dillion is here. Not just here but he showed up like a knight ready to fight for her. It's been so long since Penny has had present partner. Her messy life is overwhelming and hard on the best of days. When the tall, intelligent, handsome man from her separate life wades in ready to claim her and be by her side she feels like pinching herself to see if he is real.
The road of Dillion and Penny finding each other is bumpy and full of challenges, but once they figure out a way to be together their whole community is a better place because of it.
Dual POV, friends to lovers, he falls first, characters are in their early 40's, mutual pining, trigger warnings**, open door love scenes.
This book was on the road to 5 stars until a plot device around the 75 percent mark. I took away half a star because while I understand why the author has this stressful event happen, it caused the story to take a turn that hurt. The dramatic moment felt like an abrupt halt to the road of progress. That being said, reading this book had me melting. The things Dillion said and how he treats Penny is so incredibly lovely I was tingling from head to toe. He is patient, kind, and the answer to most of Penny's problems. It's a beautiful love story where someone can love you even if you are broken.
I loved this book. Sweet HEA and Epilogue.
Also. This is my first time reading this author and I wished I had known going in that there is a whole world this author has created with interconnected characters. If that's something you also enjoy I suggest you look up the Author's reading order and start from the beginning.
**Trigger warning...
... from the author:
Dear Reader, Penny’s life is not easy, nor is it salacious. What it is though, is real, raw, and full of pining love. Penny’s ex-husband is an alcoholic and this story shows how alcoholism and substance abuse, for some, can change the landscape of families. It’s particularly true for Penny’s oldest son, Kai, who experiences his father’s choices the most. Their world is full of chaos, but they soon learn that Dillon just wants to be a part of it, and he does so in spectacular fashion. He shows Penny and her children what being a family truly means with love, patience, and kindness.
He’s able to teach them that abuse, neglect, postpartum depression, and even death are not their fault, or their burden to carry. In short, he shows them how to live without the weight of other people’s choices.
*While this is a complete work of fiction, I appreciate my sensitivity readers for all their help in making it realistic for the characters yet keeping the vibe you’ve come to expect from me. This story is the epitome of found family, hope, and as much love as I could fit on the page.
If you or anyone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. https://www.aa.org/ https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/nati...
**Please read Ashton Westbrook's story "One Little Secret" before reading this one if you don't want to commit to the whole series. Dillion shows up in Easton's story "One Little Mistake" with a very important backstory. Penny first shows up in "Without a Hitch" and also appears in "One Little Secret."
4.5 stars
They have shared an hour together over coffee once a week for 3 years. He is in his early 40's, complacent and in need of a purpose. She has a great job but hides an extremely messy personal life. They have strong feelings for each other but need the right timing to try to be more.
Dillion Henry has a lucrative job but no one to share it with. He grew up in a broken home but as a teen was able to have found family that gave him hope. His foundation is built on those meaningful relationships. Dillion has tried to date but there is only one woman for him and she doesn't have room for him. Once a week for the past 3 years Dillion shares coffee with Penny, his "Wednesday Girl." He is a patient man, willing to wait for her, but his friends have plans to move that timeline forward.
Penny Mulligan married her high school sweetheart. They had children together and were married for several years until he turned her life upside down by having an affair. It's been a few years since the divorce but her ex-husband's problems haunt her daily. As a single mom who works full time she barely has time for herself let alone any time of romantic relationship. Her time spent with "Mr Wednesday" is the highlight of her week. She would love to take their relationship to the next level, especially since he has asked, but her private life would make even the strongest of men run for their life.
Dillion feels like his best friend is up to something. He finds himself wondering if he should look for a new career when he is suddenly thrust into Penny's real life. Once he gets a peek into her life in her hometown, he feels a strong desire to jump in with both feet. Dillion goes through a lot the first couple days stranded in Penny's small town but he feels like this could be a place he calls home.
Penny cannot believe Dillion is here. Not just here but he showed up like a knight ready to fight for her. It's been so long since Penny has had present partner. Her messy life is overwhelming and hard on the best of days. When the tall, intelligent, handsome man from her separate life wades in ready to claim her and be by her side she feels like pinching herself to see if he is real.
The road of Dillion and Penny finding each other is bumpy and full of challenges, but once they figure out a way to be together their whole community is a better place because of it.
Dual POV, friends to lovers, he falls first, characters are in their early 40's, mutual pining, trigger warnings**, open door love scenes.
This book was on the road to 5 stars until a plot device around the 75 percent mark. I took away half a star because while I understand why the author has this stressful event happen, it caused the story to take a turn that hurt. The dramatic moment felt like an abrupt halt to the road of progress. That being said, reading this book had me melting. The things Dillion said and how he treats Penny is so incredibly lovely I was tingling from head to toe. He is patient, kind, and the answer to most of Penny's problems. It's a beautiful love story where someone can love you even if you are broken.
I loved this book. Sweet HEA and Epilogue.
Also. This is my first time reading this author and I wished I had known going in that there is a whole world this author has created with interconnected characters. If that's something you also enjoy I suggest you look up the Author's reading order and start from the beginning.
**Trigger warning...
... from the author:
Dear Reader, Penny’s life is not easy, nor is it salacious. What it is though, is real, raw, and full of pining love. Penny’s ex-husband is an alcoholic and this story shows how alcoholism and substance abuse, for some, can change the landscape of families. It’s particularly true for Penny’s oldest son, Kai, who experiences his father’s choices the most. Their world is full of chaos, but they soon learn that Dillon just wants to be a part of it, and he does so in spectacular fashion. He shows Penny and her children what being a family truly means with love, patience, and kindness.
He’s able to teach them that abuse, neglect, postpartum depression, and even death are not their fault, or their burden to carry. In short, he shows them how to live without the weight of other people’s choices.
*While this is a complete work of fiction, I appreciate my sensitivity readers for all their help in making it realistic for the characters yet keeping the vibe you’ve come to expect from me. This story is the epitome of found family, hope, and as much love as I could fit on the page.
If you or anyone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. https://www.aa.org/ https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/nati...
**Please read Ashton Westbrook's story "One Little Secret" before reading this one if you don't want to commit to the whole series. Dillion shows up in Easton's story "One Little Mistake" with a very important backstory. Penny first shows up in "Without a Hitch" and also appears in "One Little Secret."
December 4, 2023
Your Last First Kiss is a book focused on Dillon and Penny who happen to be older characters (which I love!)
Penny’s life is chaotic and very complicated. Divorced at 42 with 3 boys and having to deal with a drunken ex. Having to travel to work is only worth it when Wednesdays come around and she gets to spend it with Dillon.
Dillon oh my gosh this man, he’s so swoon worthy and gah! Everybody wished they had a Dillon! He loves spending Wednesdays with Penny, he’s had his eye on her for a while but knows her life is complicated at the moment but he’s still there and very hopeful.
These two..Gahh they gave me the feels. I loved them. I loved being able to read their story and watch their relationship grow, it’s been so much fun.
Your Last First Kiss is a friends to lovers romance. It’s emotional and beautiful and damn, you’ll fall for those two. Avery Maxwell amazing with this.
Penny’s life is chaotic and very complicated. Divorced at 42 with 3 boys and having to deal with a drunken ex. Having to travel to work is only worth it when Wednesdays come around and she gets to spend it with Dillon.
Dillon oh my gosh this man, he’s so swoon worthy and gah! Everybody wished they had a Dillon! He loves spending Wednesdays with Penny, he’s had his eye on her for a while but knows her life is complicated at the moment but he’s still there and very hopeful.
These two..Gahh they gave me the feels. I loved them. I loved being able to read their story and watch their relationship grow, it’s been so much fun.
Your Last First Kiss is a friends to lovers romance. It’s emotional and beautiful and damn, you’ll fall for those two. Avery Maxwell amazing with this.
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