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You First
He's her brother's best friend.
She's his biggest regret. Genevieve Michaels didn’t realize how much emotional preparation she needed to do for her brother’s wedding. But when Leo Bishop walks into the bar five days before the wedding, she’s reminded of exactly why she can’t stand her brother’s best friend...and exactly why she plans to steer clear of him all week. But within minutes, Leo and Genevieve are back to their usual childish antics. They grew up together, and they have a lot in their love for basketball, her brother, and their innate ability to pick a fight with each other. But not this week. This week Genevieve is determined to play nice, and avoid him as much as possible. When wedding chaos ensues, Leo and Genevieve are forced to work together to ensure the wedding goes off without a hitch. As they eliminate each disaster, they uncover all the reasons they can’t stand each other, and all the reasons they once thought it could be love.
She's his biggest regret. Genevieve Michaels didn’t realize how much emotional preparation she needed to do for her brother’s wedding. But when Leo Bishop walks into the bar five days before the wedding, she’s reminded of exactly why she can’t stand her brother’s best friend...and exactly why she plans to steer clear of him all week. But within minutes, Leo and Genevieve are back to their usual childish antics. They grew up together, and they have a lot in their love for basketball, her brother, and their innate ability to pick a fight with each other. But not this week. This week Genevieve is determined to play nice, and avoid him as much as possible. When wedding chaos ensues, Leo and Genevieve are forced to work together to ensure the wedding goes off without a hitch. As they eliminate each disaster, they uncover all the reasons they can’t stand each other, and all the reasons they once thought it could be love.
341 pages, Paperback
First published May 30, 2023
192 people are currently reading
2115 people want to read
About the author
Caitlin Moss
11 books492 followersCaitlin Moss is the author of swoony romance books that give you all the feels.
She is a writer turned stay-at-home-mom turned author and currently resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, three children, and two golden doodles.
Instagram: @caitlinmossauthor
Tiktok: @caitlinmosswrites
Threads: @caitlinmossauthor
https://linktr.ee/caitlinmoss
She is a writer turned stay-at-home-mom turned author and currently resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, three children, and two golden doodles.
Instagram: @caitlinmossauthor
Tiktok: @caitlinmosswrites
Threads: @caitlinmossauthor
https://linktr.ee/caitlinmoss
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews
August 16, 2023
This is a straight-forward second-chance romance. These are always tricky because a lot hinges on the details of the past and making me buy into the break and the subsequent growth that allows a new HEA. I'm glad to say that this book got that part very right.
And I kind of like that Leo is unambiguously at fault in their past blowing up. This worked well because it was clear and both Gen's hurt and his regret were well depicted. As is usual for this kind of story, it takes a good portion of the story for us to get the details and that always makes me anxious because too many authors skimp on that past where it turns out to be some stupid miscommunication or other forced misunderstanding; possibly so that nobody has to be the bad guy. So I was relieved to see that Leo was, indeed, the bad guy and that it really was exactly as dire as Gen's current state would indicate.
Fortunately, Moss also gave enough emotional detail to see why Leo blew it so badly. Okay, it's the weakest part of the story because it's pretty clear that he regretted his actions fairly early and has been struggling to make amends for some years. And that opens the question of why it was so hard without it being further evidence of lameness. Taking eight years to make a sincere apology is a bit much to ask for, though that's helped by their physical distance all this time. That helped just enough for me to go along with it.
Of course, it also helped that I liked Gen from the start, particularly her kindness. And that she had a core of strength that comes out best as she pushes against her awful ex and his emotional demands. I liked seeing her stand up to those unreasonable demands. And I particularly liked the contrast it gave against Leo and his careful process of making things right without establishing similar emotional burden.
In the end, this was an easy four star romantic read. It's not ground-breaking, but it was fun and engaging and I may need to see what else the author has written.
A note about Steamy: There are five or six explicit sex scenes which is pushing the edge of my steam tolerance. Honestly, I skimmed the penultimate and skipped the, erm, ultimate entirely. I did like the inclusion of their first time eight years ago as the first on-page scene as it established a lot of their emotional landscape in all the right ways.
And I kind of like that Leo is unambiguously at fault in their past blowing up. This worked well because it was clear and both Gen's hurt and his regret were well depicted. As is usual for this kind of story, it takes a good portion of the story for us to get the details and that always makes me anxious because too many authors skimp on that past where it turns out to be some stupid miscommunication or other forced misunderstanding; possibly so that nobody has to be the bad guy. So I was relieved to see that Leo was, indeed, the bad guy and that it really was exactly as dire as Gen's current state would indicate.
Fortunately, Moss also gave enough emotional detail to see why Leo blew it so badly. Okay, it's the weakest part of the story because it's pretty clear that he regretted his actions fairly early and has been struggling to make amends for some years. And that opens the question of why it was so hard without it being further evidence of lameness. Taking eight years to make a sincere apology is a bit much to ask for, though that's helped by their physical distance all this time. That helped just enough for me to go along with it.
Of course, it also helped that I liked Gen from the start, particularly her kindness. And that she had a core of strength that comes out best as she pushes against her awful ex and his emotional demands. I liked seeing her stand up to those unreasonable demands. And I particularly liked the contrast it gave against Leo and his careful process of making things right without establishing similar emotional burden.
In the end, this was an easy four star romantic read. It's not ground-breaking, but it was fun and engaging and I may need to see what else the author has written.
A note about Steamy: There are five or six explicit sex scenes which is pushing the edge of my steam tolerance. Honestly, I skimmed the penultimate and skipped the, erm, ultimate entirely. I did like the inclusion of their first time eight years ago as the first on-page scene as it established a lot of their emotional landscape in all the right ways.
June 24, 2023
Great angst, crisp and lovely writing. Humor and heart and all the things I love in a contemporary!
May 16, 2023
On a scale from one to “ew, please don’t” how lame is it to say this book was a slam dunk? Not lame at all right, that’s exactly what I was thinking!
Everything from the cover to the characters and everything in between had me SWOONING so much for this book. The story starts out at a bridal shower and, in true Caitlin Moss fashion, every word from there on out feels effortless, real, and relatable. I felt like I was there. I wasn’t just reading, I was invited to experience the story right along with these lovable characters and, more than that, they became friends.
I’ve read all of Moss’s novels and Sixteen Summers has always held the highest rank but I’mma be honest…I think You First just tied for first. Pun intended? This story is so different from her previous novels and I would never say it’s her “best” because Moss, in my eyes, has a consistency and a true sense of literary self that results in one best after the last. She’s just that good. But I had a lot of fun exploring this side of her writing. It’s spicier, it’s lighter, it’s candy coated popcorn.
I laughed out loud, I blushed, I swooned, I nodded in understanding. It may be Moss’s first romcom, but this ain’t her first rodeo. You won’t regret picking this one up!
Read if you love:
🏀 a generous amount of spice
🏀 one bed
🏀 “biggest regret”
🏀 brother’s best friend
🏀 wedding setting
🏀 forced proximity
🏀 second chance romance
🏀 frenemies to lovers
Everything from the cover to the characters and everything in between had me SWOONING so much for this book. The story starts out at a bridal shower and, in true Caitlin Moss fashion, every word from there on out feels effortless, real, and relatable. I felt like I was there. I wasn’t just reading, I was invited to experience the story right along with these lovable characters and, more than that, they became friends.
I’ve read all of Moss’s novels and Sixteen Summers has always held the highest rank but I’mma be honest…I think You First just tied for first. Pun intended? This story is so different from her previous novels and I would never say it’s her “best” because Moss, in my eyes, has a consistency and a true sense of literary self that results in one best after the last. She’s just that good. But I had a lot of fun exploring this side of her writing. It’s spicier, it’s lighter, it’s candy coated popcorn.
I laughed out loud, I blushed, I swooned, I nodded in understanding. It may be Moss’s first romcom, but this ain’t her first rodeo. You won’t regret picking this one up!
Read if you love:
🏀 a generous amount of spice
🏀 one bed
🏀 “biggest regret”
🏀 brother’s best friend
🏀 wedding setting
🏀 forced proximity
🏀 second chance romance
🏀 frenemies to lovers
February 1, 2024
This book was super cute! I found it by accident on kindle unlimited and I’m so glad I decided to read it.
If you are wanting a quick mindless romance book I would highly recommend this one. I wanted to keep reading this book even after I would put it down because I needed to know Leo and Evie’s story.
I will definitely be checking out other book by this author
If you are wanting a quick mindless romance book I would highly recommend this one. I wanted to keep reading this book even after I would put it down because I needed to know Leo and Evie’s story.
I will definitely be checking out other book by this author
December 15, 2023
This started well and had likeable characters, but the romance and story dragged on and on.
July 25, 2023
This book was so cute, I literally laughed out loud and even shed tears as well.
“Seriously your a Sunday. Some people say Sunday is the beginning of the week, some people say it’s the end . That’s you the beginning and the end. You’ve always been. At least to me”
“Seriously your a Sunday. Some people say Sunday is the beginning of the week, some people say it’s the end . That’s you the beginning and the end. You’ve always been. At least to me”
September 7, 2024
My threshold for forgiveness is in a deficit so fuck this dude too.
January 13, 2026
You First by Caitlin Moss Review
You First by Caitlin Moss is a heartfelt second‑chance friends‑to‑lovers romance that unfolds during one unforgettable week, all set against the chaos and charm of a wedding celebration. The story follows Genevieve “Genny” Michaels, who returns home for her brother’s wedding determined to avoid awkward encounters and emotional landmines, especially with Leo Bishop, her brother’s best friend and the person she most regretted losing years ago. Genny and Leo share a long history, inside jokes, and basketball memories, but their relationship ended badly, leaving them both with walls up and memories that sting. Forced into constant proximity as the wedding weekend spirals with mishaps, they find themselves working together to keep the celebrations on track, and with every shared laugh, gentle jab, and moment of vulnerability, they uncover both the reasons they drifted apart and the reasons love once pulled them toward each other.
What stayed with me long after finishing was the layers of emotion woven into what could easily have been a lightweight summer romance. Moss’s portrayal of Genny’s growth, from hiding behind sarcasm and past hurts to opening her heart to vulnerability again, felt deeply honest and beautifully grounded, and Leo’s quiet patience and sincerity made him someone I genuinely cared about as more than just “the ex.” Their banter had me laughing, their shared history gave weight to every glance and joke, and the way their chemistry unfolded, slowly, playfully, and with real emotional stakes made each turning point feel deeply earned.
I also appreciated how themes of grief, forgiveness, and basketball memories (yes, including HORSE games that felt so vivid they made me smile) were woven into the heart of the story, adding richness beyond typical wedding‑week antics. While the pacing leans into slow‑burn territory and the third‑act emotional unraveling can feel intense, the blend of warmth, depth, and genuine character connection made this one of those romances that feels like slipping into a familiar, beloved song. You First left me with that cozy, reflective satisfaction of characters who gave love another chance and found something even sweeter than before.
Rating: 3 out of 5 because of the emotional depth.
You First by Caitlin Moss is a heartfelt second‑chance friends‑to‑lovers romance that unfolds during one unforgettable week, all set against the chaos and charm of a wedding celebration. The story follows Genevieve “Genny” Michaels, who returns home for her brother’s wedding determined to avoid awkward encounters and emotional landmines, especially with Leo Bishop, her brother’s best friend and the person she most regretted losing years ago. Genny and Leo share a long history, inside jokes, and basketball memories, but their relationship ended badly, leaving them both with walls up and memories that sting. Forced into constant proximity as the wedding weekend spirals with mishaps, they find themselves working together to keep the celebrations on track, and with every shared laugh, gentle jab, and moment of vulnerability, they uncover both the reasons they drifted apart and the reasons love once pulled them toward each other.
What stayed with me long after finishing was the layers of emotion woven into what could easily have been a lightweight summer romance. Moss’s portrayal of Genny’s growth, from hiding behind sarcasm and past hurts to opening her heart to vulnerability again, felt deeply honest and beautifully grounded, and Leo’s quiet patience and sincerity made him someone I genuinely cared about as more than just “the ex.” Their banter had me laughing, their shared history gave weight to every glance and joke, and the way their chemistry unfolded, slowly, playfully, and with real emotional stakes made each turning point feel deeply earned.
I also appreciated how themes of grief, forgiveness, and basketball memories (yes, including HORSE games that felt so vivid they made me smile) were woven into the heart of the story, adding richness beyond typical wedding‑week antics. While the pacing leans into slow‑burn territory and the third‑act emotional unraveling can feel intense, the blend of warmth, depth, and genuine character connection made this one of those romances that feels like slipping into a familiar, beloved song. You First left me with that cozy, reflective satisfaction of characters who gave love another chance and found something even sweeter than before.
Rating: 3 out of 5 because of the emotional depth.
May 30, 2023
"Her brother's childhood best friend was a whole memory that she tried, but failed to forget."
This slow burn romcom is EVERYTHING! It's the week of Genevieve's brother's wedding. When his best friend Leo shows up for the festivities, Genevieve is faced with all of the reasons she has been avoiding him for years. But after working together during wedding week, Genevieve and Leo are forced to face their feelings and share the secrets that have gone unspoken for too long.
It isn't often that you find a book that you wish you could read again for the first time. You First is one of those unicorns for me. I wish I could experience Genevieve and Leo again for the first time. I did not expect to feel so many emotions during this book but they ran deep with every turn of the page. I laughed at the banter between friends, smiled at the tender moments between lovers, and cried gut wrenching tears with their struggles of grief. Cailtin's writing is pure gold for me. She has the gift of creating characters that you fall in love with from the beginning. Her books are auto purchases for me every.single.time.
You First will be available on May 30, 2023. I promise that this is a MUST READ!
This slow burn romcom is EVERYTHING! It's the week of Genevieve's brother's wedding. When his best friend Leo shows up for the festivities, Genevieve is faced with all of the reasons she has been avoiding him for years. But after working together during wedding week, Genevieve and Leo are forced to face their feelings and share the secrets that have gone unspoken for too long.
It isn't often that you find a book that you wish you could read again for the first time. You First is one of those unicorns for me. I wish I could experience Genevieve and Leo again for the first time. I did not expect to feel so many emotions during this book but they ran deep with every turn of the page. I laughed at the banter between friends, smiled at the tender moments between lovers, and cried gut wrenching tears with their struggles of grief. Cailtin's writing is pure gold for me. She has the gift of creating characters that you fall in love with from the beginning. Her books are auto purchases for me every.single.time.
You First will be available on May 30, 2023. I promise that this is a MUST READ!
July 23, 2023
Such a fun easy read with a few tears at the end 🥰
May 27, 2023
“My mom once told me that real love isn’t the kind of love that feels good all the time. Sometimes it’s the kind of love that challenges you. It bends and breaks and molds you. It forces you to grow when nothing in you wants to. It’s the kind of love that pulls you out of the trenches and dances with you on mountain tops. It’s the kind of love with blisters and scars…It’s the kind of love that loses the fight and apologizes. The kind of love that feels so good, it hurst because it forces you to grow.”
Phew-just let that quote sink in a little…
This book gave me all the feels. The quote above is just one of many that really hit home for me. This story is based out of Seattle, WA, which has a special place in my heart. Not only do we travel to Seattle several times throughout the year for Sounders and Mariners games, but my husband also proposed on the Ferris wheel that was mentioned in this book. So it’s safe to say I was destined to LOVE this book!
A slow-burn-romcom with all the laughs. I love Caitlin’s writing style so much. Easy to read and always leaves you feeing all the emotions. But the banter between Genevieve and Leo left me literally laughing out loud so many times. I simply loved the trope; falling in love with your best friend’s sister, during a wedding. Everyone loves a good wedding story. Oh yeah and I got all the Love and Basketball feels. Everyone needs a love like Leo and Genevieve do!
I highly recommend this story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
PUB date May 30, 2023
Phew-just let that quote sink in a little…
This book gave me all the feels. The quote above is just one of many that really hit home for me. This story is based out of Seattle, WA, which has a special place in my heart. Not only do we travel to Seattle several times throughout the year for Sounders and Mariners games, but my husband also proposed on the Ferris wheel that was mentioned in this book. So it’s safe to say I was destined to LOVE this book!
A slow-burn-romcom with all the laughs. I love Caitlin’s writing style so much. Easy to read and always leaves you feeing all the emotions. But the banter between Genevieve and Leo left me literally laughing out loud so many times. I simply loved the trope; falling in love with your best friend’s sister, during a wedding. Everyone loves a good wedding story. Oh yeah and I got all the Love and Basketball feels. Everyone needs a love like Leo and Genevieve do!
I highly recommend this story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
PUB date May 30, 2023
January 8, 2024
I don't know what it is, but I love stories that revolve around a wedding! Deep in preparations to ensure her brother's big day is perfect, Genevieve Michaels is reluctantly forced in proximity with Leo Bishop, the best man she's been in love with on and off for fifteen years.
This was so good. Genevieve and Leo had such an effortless connection. The type that instantly made me feel warm and gooey inside. From their first interaction, you can genuinely feel the history of pent-up emotions behind their inside jokes and playful bickering.
The sprinkles of flashbacks were perfectly placed, giving that extra dose of angst I love to see in a second chance romance. It truly captured the recklessness of young love.
"We were always my favorite bad idea."
I was really surprised by the depth of this story! It was light and funny, but also really touching with its incorporation of grief. Adored this one!
(heat level: a few open-door scenes, moderate details)
This was so good. Genevieve and Leo had such an effortless connection. The type that instantly made me feel warm and gooey inside. From their first interaction, you can genuinely feel the history of pent-up emotions behind their inside jokes and playful bickering.
The sprinkles of flashbacks were perfectly placed, giving that extra dose of angst I love to see in a second chance romance. It truly captured the recklessness of young love.
"We were always my favorite bad idea."
I was really surprised by the depth of this story! It was light and funny, but also really touching with its incorporation of grief. Adored this one!
(heat level: a few open-door scenes, moderate details)
May 31, 2023
4.3 ✨
“But we’re a bad idea. Right? We shouldn’t do this.” I sound like I’m trying to convince myself, not Leo.
He shakes his head slowly, taking two swift steps toward me.
“You said that. You said—”
“I said you were always my favorite bad idea,” he says, holding my face in his hands.
My brow creases. “I don’t know if that makes me feel better.”
He laughs. “We’re complicated, but not impossible.”
“But we’re a bad idea. Right? We shouldn’t do this.” I sound like I’m trying to convince myself, not Leo.
He shakes his head slowly, taking two swift steps toward me.
“You said that. You said—”
“I said you were always my favorite bad idea,” he says, holding my face in his hands.
My brow creases. “I don’t know if that makes me feel better.”
He laughs. “We’re complicated, but not impossible.”
May 12, 2023
As someone who grew up in Seattle and no longer lives there, this was such a fun book to read! I loved all the familiar places, the banter and tension.. chefs kiss! 👌🏻 It was just so good!! I loved how sneaky Nora was about pushing Leo and Genevieve together and I want more of Abigail and April! I was not expecting to cry the last 20% of the book but it pulled at all the heart strings and I loved it so much. Thank you Caitlin for allowing me to read this ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2023
Wow oh wow!! This book gave me ALL the feels!!! ❤️ I laughed, I cried; it was seriously so great! I love some good romance and the spice here was spot on! 🌶️🔥
If you are a Colleen Hoover or Lucy Score fan, trust me when I say Caitlin Moss is right up there with those extremely talented ladies! Highly recommend!!!
If you are a Colleen Hoover or Lucy Score fan, trust me when I say Caitlin Moss is right up there with those extremely talented ladies! Highly recommend!!!
May 25, 2024
FUN, TENSION, CHARM
Add this to your Summer TBR!
There’s a heat wave in Seattle. Genevieve is emotionally unprepared for her brother’s wedding, especially seeing his best friend Leo. Despite their history of childish antics and mutual love for basketball, Gen plans to avoid Leo all week. However, as chaos unfolds, they are forced to work together, igniting tension as they uncover why they can’t stand each other anymore.
The delightful banter, wedding festivities, playful competition, and forced proximity add charm to this story. The emotional depth conveys one’s hurt and the other’s regret, intensifying the angst as the conflict unfolds. The strong, resilient FMC handles difficult situations well, including grief and an awful ex in the mix. The author skillfully weaves past and present timelines, providing vivid imagery, and engaging writing. I thoroughly enjoyed this read!
“We were always my favorite bad idea.”
You First by Caitlin Moss @caitlinmossauthor
Romance, Contemporary, Sports | Rating: 5★
May’s #12IndiesIn12 Pick
Add this to your Summer TBR!
There’s a heat wave in Seattle. Genevieve is emotionally unprepared for her brother’s wedding, especially seeing his best friend Leo. Despite their history of childish antics and mutual love for basketball, Gen plans to avoid Leo all week. However, as chaos unfolds, they are forced to work together, igniting tension as they uncover why they can’t stand each other anymore.
The delightful banter, wedding festivities, playful competition, and forced proximity add charm to this story. The emotional depth conveys one’s hurt and the other’s regret, intensifying the angst as the conflict unfolds. The strong, resilient FMC handles difficult situations well, including grief and an awful ex in the mix. The author skillfully weaves past and present timelines, providing vivid imagery, and engaging writing. I thoroughly enjoyed this read!
“We were always my favorite bad idea.”
You First by Caitlin Moss @caitlinmossauthor
Romance, Contemporary, Sports | Rating: 5★
May’s #12IndiesIn12 Pick
August 16, 2023
My Grade C- ****Light Spoilers Below****
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The Good:
-Definitely good with the MC/LI chemistry, and the spicy scenes weren't terrible.
-The relationship with the MC and her brother was very sweet.
-I really did like the glimpses of the past. Those were my favorite parts of the book.
-The Meh:
-The LI was kind of a jerk.
-I didn't really enjoy the whole ex-boyfriend subplot and how he likes to turn up constantly with puppy dog eyes, crocodile tears, and snarky comments. Any why was he invited to events?
-The continual of the back and forth between the MC and LI got so extremely annoying!
**Oh, look! They still have the feelings, but oh wait, does he? Does she? Yes they do! Or do they? Oh no! I'm not sure now! But wait! I think I love you! But do I?**
I wanted to rip through the pages and smack their heads together! SMDH.
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The Good:
-Definitely good with the MC/LI chemistry, and the spicy scenes weren't terrible.
-The relationship with the MC and her brother was very sweet.
-I really did like the glimpses of the past. Those were my favorite parts of the book.
-The Meh:
-The LI was kind of a jerk.
-I didn't really enjoy the whole ex-boyfriend subplot and how he likes to turn up constantly with puppy dog eyes, crocodile tears, and snarky comments. Any why was he invited to events?
-The continual of the back and forth between the MC and LI got so extremely annoying!
**Oh, look! They still have the feelings, but oh wait, does he? Does she? Yes they do! Or do they? Oh no! I'm not sure now! But wait! I think I love you! But do I?**
I wanted to rip through the pages and smack their heads together! SMDH.
October 19, 2023
“Because isn’t that what life is? A dance. Sometimes we know the steps. Sometimes we look ridiculous. Sometimes it’s hard. And sometimes it’s as easy as falling in love.”
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This lovely love story has me in unexpected tears. Everything about it was perfect … the characters, their path to each other, their love for each other. *sigh*
The emotional relationship between Genevieve and her brother and the love they both have for their parents was also a huge part of the book, and it was so beautiful.
Loved this story so much!
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This lovely love story has me in unexpected tears. Everything about it was perfect … the characters, their path to each other, their love for each other. *sigh*
The emotional relationship between Genevieve and her brother and the love they both have for their parents was also a huge part of the book, and it was so beautiful.
Loved this story so much!
June 4, 2023
What was the last book that surprised you? For me, it was You First, by Caitlin Moss.
The cover initially pulled me in, but as soon as I started reading, I completely fell in love with Genevieve and Leo. Plus add in the element of basketball and I was completely sold. Their love story captivated me and I had to keep reading to find out what happened when they were in high school and why they hate each other now. Being her brother's best friend, Leo has always been an antagonist in Genny's life. They haven't truly talked for eight years, but when Genny's brother gets married, the pair are forced to face their past and keep the peace...but just for one week.
I love a strong heroine and Genny is the epitome of that. She knows what she wants and won't settle for less, which was refreshing. Leo is her perfect match. He's kind, patient, and protective. He proves chivalry is not dead. There were plenty of twists and surprises along the way and the pair took them in stride together, rather than letting circumstances or miscommunication tear them apart.
The chemistry between Leo and Genny was electric from the start, but built ever so slowly in this slow burn, open door romance. I loved the banter between the pair and how they used it to mask their vulnerabilities with each other. Growing up together, the two have a strong history, which added to the mystery of their romantic backstory. I'm usually not a fan of flashbacks, but they were done perfectly in You First and had unconventional placement in order to pack the best emotional punch.
There are some heavier themes portrayed, but the author does a wonderful job of setting the stage with content warnings at the beginning of the book. Coming up on the second anniversary of my mom's death, I felt so much of the grief and struggles that Genny faced throughout. This book was exactly what I needed to read and I felt incredibly seen and understood. There were so many lines that brought me to tears, but the tears were cathartic and healing. It helped put to words so many of the emotions that I am still dealing with almost two years later.
I read this book in one sitting and stayed up way too late finishing it. I highly recommend this one! It's available on KU.
The cover initially pulled me in, but as soon as I started reading, I completely fell in love with Genevieve and Leo. Plus add in the element of basketball and I was completely sold. Their love story captivated me and I had to keep reading to find out what happened when they were in high school and why they hate each other now. Being her brother's best friend, Leo has always been an antagonist in Genny's life. They haven't truly talked for eight years, but when Genny's brother gets married, the pair are forced to face their past and keep the peace...but just for one week.
I love a strong heroine and Genny is the epitome of that. She knows what she wants and won't settle for less, which was refreshing. Leo is her perfect match. He's kind, patient, and protective. He proves chivalry is not dead. There were plenty of twists and surprises along the way and the pair took them in stride together, rather than letting circumstances or miscommunication tear them apart.
The chemistry between Leo and Genny was electric from the start, but built ever so slowly in this slow burn, open door romance. I loved the banter between the pair and how they used it to mask their vulnerabilities with each other. Growing up together, the two have a strong history, which added to the mystery of their romantic backstory. I'm usually not a fan of flashbacks, but they were done perfectly in You First and had unconventional placement in order to pack the best emotional punch.
There are some heavier themes portrayed, but the author does a wonderful job of setting the stage with content warnings at the beginning of the book. Coming up on the second anniversary of my mom's death, I felt so much of the grief and struggles that Genny faced throughout. This book was exactly what I needed to read and I felt incredibly seen and understood. There were so many lines that brought me to tears, but the tears were cathartic and healing. It helped put to words so many of the emotions that I am still dealing with almost two years later.
I read this book in one sitting and stayed up way too late finishing it. I highly recommend this one! It's available on KU.
June 19, 2023
I am not a writer, and when I read a book like this one, I wish I was.
The talent and gift of storytelling is a precious one that I am thankful to this author for sharing with us!
I have read numerous books by this author, Caitlin Moss.
I keep reaching for her books because of how they make me feel. Even though there are many other reasons to reach for her books!
This one, You First, is a little bit different than her others, as far as the storyline goes.
It feels like a little bit more of a predictable romcom, hallmark type vibe for the first few chapters.
More so than her other books are.
But, the similarity to her other books is that she always has a way of taking you on a real journey,
sometimes very light and heartwarming, and then, wham!
She hits you with the good stuff!
The stuff that maybe you weren’t even planning to delve into that day.
The realities of life,.. whether you can relate to specifics or not, she paints a scenario with her words, she describes emotions and memories etc. so well, that if you haven’t been through what she’s describing, you will feel like you now have been through it.
And she also somehow has a way of carrying you through it in a loving, safe, respectful way, even though she gets to the heart of the nitty-gritty.
This heartwarming romance is so much more than a heartwarming romance. And yet, it fulfils that sometimes very light genre while still making you feel like you didn’t waste your whole entire day and evening on something too light.
Oh,, and the spice! Yes, it gets spicy!
Can a book really be just a fun romance but yet at the same time go deeper, without being too heavy?
Yes it can!
I would recommend reading Caitlin’s other books, and pre-ordering this one now!
Thank you to author Caitlin Moss for the opportunity to read this Advanced Reader Copy. This is my honest review!
Charlene 🌸🤗📚 @lastnownext
The talent and gift of storytelling is a precious one that I am thankful to this author for sharing with us!
I have read numerous books by this author, Caitlin Moss.
I keep reaching for her books because of how they make me feel. Even though there are many other reasons to reach for her books!
This one, You First, is a little bit different than her others, as far as the storyline goes.
It feels like a little bit more of a predictable romcom, hallmark type vibe for the first few chapters.
More so than her other books are.
But, the similarity to her other books is that she always has a way of taking you on a real journey,
sometimes very light and heartwarming, and then, wham!
She hits you with the good stuff!
The stuff that maybe you weren’t even planning to delve into that day.
The realities of life,.. whether you can relate to specifics or not, she paints a scenario with her words, she describes emotions and memories etc. so well, that if you haven’t been through what she’s describing, you will feel like you now have been through it.
And she also somehow has a way of carrying you through it in a loving, safe, respectful way, even though she gets to the heart of the nitty-gritty.
This heartwarming romance is so much more than a heartwarming romance. And yet, it fulfils that sometimes very light genre while still making you feel like you didn’t waste your whole entire day and evening on something too light.
Oh,, and the spice! Yes, it gets spicy!
Can a book really be just a fun romance but yet at the same time go deeper, without being too heavy?
Yes it can!
I would recommend reading Caitlin’s other books, and pre-ordering this one now!
Thank you to author Caitlin Moss for the opportunity to read this Advanced Reader Copy. This is my honest review!
Charlene 🌸🤗📚 @lastnownext
August 13, 2023
5⭐️s
Thought this was going to be a silly romance. What I got was a love story. Loved it. Was a real slow burn almost to the point of being too much… Evie and Leo were both perfection. The book description really doesn’t do it justice. I expected something very different but I suppose one shouldn’t judge a book by its cover! The spice is also pretty perfect. There are a couple of flashbacks and it’s done in an atypical way.
Reminded me a lot of Carley Fortune’s books and maybe a bit of Emily Henry and Abby Jimenez too.
Thought this was going to be a silly romance. What I got was a love story. Loved it. Was a real slow burn almost to the point of being too much… Evie and Leo were both perfection. The book description really doesn’t do it justice. I expected something very different but I suppose one shouldn’t judge a book by its cover! The spice is also pretty perfect. There are a couple of flashbacks and it’s done in an atypical way.
Reminded me a lot of Carley Fortune’s books and maybe a bit of Emily Henry and Abby Jimenez too.
April 21, 2024
4.5⭐️
I absolutely adored this enemies to lovers romance. It gave me “Love and Basketball” vibes (A favorite movie of mine).
Genevieve (Genny) and Leo are enemies but are forced to work together for William’s wedding. William is Genny’s brother and Leo’s best friend. Genny and Leo both played basketball in school and have that in common but became enemies years ago. Now that the wedding is happening they are forced to be around one another so let the games begin.
You can immediately feel their chemistry jump off the page with their banter back and forth and the nickname jabs and crazy looks. I loved it. I could totally see Caitlin’s (author) personality from reading this one and following her funny reels on Instagram. It was funny, cute, sweet, and had a great plot! I loved every minute of it. So… to convince you to pick this one up, here are some of my favorite quotes from, 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝑭𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕!
“Young love is reckless—when you’re stupid enough to let the feelings grow, but unreasonable enough to tear it all apart.”
“Love should make you question your whole life. Not because that person is trying to change you, but because they’ve turned your world upside down in the best way.”
“I love this part of a reception: the first dance. Because isn’t that’s what life is? A dance. Sometimes we know the step. Sometimes we look ridiculous. Sometimes it’s hard. And sometimes it’s as easy as falling in love.”
“Sometimes the things worth keeping are the things you had to fight to get back.”
“I like our story. It’s bruised and a little jagged but so are we. It’s distinctly ours. I wouldn’t want any other story to tell than ours.”
I absolutely adored this enemies to lovers romance. It gave me “Love and Basketball” vibes (A favorite movie of mine).
Genevieve (Genny) and Leo are enemies but are forced to work together for William’s wedding. William is Genny’s brother and Leo’s best friend. Genny and Leo both played basketball in school and have that in common but became enemies years ago. Now that the wedding is happening they are forced to be around one another so let the games begin.
You can immediately feel their chemistry jump off the page with their banter back and forth and the nickname jabs and crazy looks. I loved it. I could totally see Caitlin’s (author) personality from reading this one and following her funny reels on Instagram. It was funny, cute, sweet, and had a great plot! I loved every minute of it. So… to convince you to pick this one up, here are some of my favorite quotes from, 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝑭𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕!
“Young love is reckless—when you’re stupid enough to let the feelings grow, but unreasonable enough to tear it all apart.”
“Love should make you question your whole life. Not because that person is trying to change you, but because they’ve turned your world upside down in the best way.”
“I love this part of a reception: the first dance. Because isn’t that’s what life is? A dance. Sometimes we know the step. Sometimes we look ridiculous. Sometimes it’s hard. And sometimes it’s as easy as falling in love.”
“Sometimes the things worth keeping are the things you had to fight to get back.”
“I like our story. It’s bruised and a little jagged but so are we. It’s distinctly ours. I wouldn’t want any other story to tell than ours.”
May 31, 2023
Caitlin, thank you so much for letting me be a first time ARC reader!! I feel very blessed.
First, if you haven’t read any of Caitlin’s other books, I would suggest you read them to get a feel for the author’s writing style. You First is different than her other books but the storyline will easily capture your attention.
Next, this book, you guys!!! You First is a book you will not be able to put down! It was the perfect blend of frenemies to lovers, young love and first times together, growing up and working through the past, grief over losing a loved one, the most perfect banter, and some spice. This was such an easy read, everything flowed, and I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next. I loved this one!
Last but not least, if you like authors like Tessa Bailey or Christina Lauren you will love this book.
I received an early copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
First, if you haven’t read any of Caitlin’s other books, I would suggest you read them to get a feel for the author’s writing style. You First is different than her other books but the storyline will easily capture your attention.
Next, this book, you guys!!! You First is a book you will not be able to put down! It was the perfect blend of frenemies to lovers, young love and first times together, growing up and working through the past, grief over losing a loved one, the most perfect banter, and some spice. This was such an easy read, everything flowed, and I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next. I loved this one!
Last but not least, if you like authors like Tessa Bailey or Christina Lauren you will love this book.
I received an early copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
August 31, 2023
This one almost ended up in the DNF pile.
The only character that is fully developed is the heroin, Evie who spends a good 99% of the book whining and complaining and rehashing endlessly everyone's. Single. Words that Leo, (or for that matter some of her family too) ever told her.
So. I don't know if you're like me but having such a memory for one is totally insane and unrealistic or (it goes on from basically kindergarten since her mid-twenties) is borderline with having some disorder like Asperger or some such.
And she's totally neurotic and has definitely a "nobody loves me" (paranoid tendencies) syndrome.
The guy is actually too good to be true and once again, not very realistic. He spends the whole book telling, showing and reassuring her when he should have stayed well away from her (in my opinions). It seemed that every time you think she has finally made a step forward, she takes two backwards. It's.. tiring and honestly not a all entertaining.
Actually I thought she deserved Damien and that the two were perfect for each other, being as selfish and self centered as they were.
All in all, I don't recommend it. It is super rare, and I think the first one I'm saying that about but it was really bad in my opinion. And it was way too long too.
The only character that is fully developed is the heroin, Evie who spends a good 99% of the book whining and complaining and rehashing endlessly everyone's. Single. Words that Leo, (or for that matter some of her family too) ever told her.
So. I don't know if you're like me but having such a memory for one is totally insane and unrealistic or (it goes on from basically kindergarten since her mid-twenties) is borderline with having some disorder like Asperger or some such.
And she's totally neurotic and has definitely a "nobody loves me" (paranoid tendencies) syndrome.
The guy is actually too good to be true and once again, not very realistic. He spends the whole book telling, showing and reassuring her when he should have stayed well away from her (in my opinions). It seemed that every time you think she has finally made a step forward, she takes two backwards. It's.. tiring and honestly not a all entertaining.
Actually I thought she deserved Damien and that the two were perfect for each other, being as selfish and self centered as they were.
All in all, I don't recommend it. It is super rare, and I think the first one I'm saying that about but it was really bad in my opinion. And it was way too long too.
May 12, 2023
Have you ever gotten the feeling while reading like you were supposed to read this book right now? Like there’s a reason why this book was the one you stumbled upon and chose to read next? That was this book for me.
So far, every Caitlin Moss book that I’ve read has made me cry, and this one was no exception. This story, the characters, the love/angst, the mom. EVERYTHING had me in my feelings. Second chance romances have made its way up to one of my top favorite tropes (along with brothers best friend, frienemies to lovers, and “only one bed”). You could feel the love and the pain that both Genevieve & Leo were experiencing throughout the entire book. Their story was so heartbreakingly beautiful. This is definitely one I’m going to hold very near & dear to my heart for a long, long time. 5 ⭐️s
A HUGE thank you to Caitlin Moss for giving me the chance to read this one early. Check out You First on its pub date 5/30!
So far, every Caitlin Moss book that I’ve read has made me cry, and this one was no exception. This story, the characters, the love/angst, the mom. EVERYTHING had me in my feelings. Second chance romances have made its way up to one of my top favorite tropes (along with brothers best friend, frienemies to lovers, and “only one bed”). You could feel the love and the pain that both Genevieve & Leo were experiencing throughout the entire book. Their story was so heartbreakingly beautiful. This is definitely one I’m going to hold very near & dear to my heart for a long, long time. 5 ⭐️s
A HUGE thank you to Caitlin Moss for giving me the chance to read this one early. Check out You First on its pub date 5/30!
May 9, 2023
This book is everything I want in a romantic comedy: parts that make me laugh out loud, parts that make me blush, and honesty of what life and love really are. Caitlin Moss is a master of writing stories that pull you in and feel real, which makes you feel for what the characters are going through. I could not put this one down and also cried throughout it because there are so many relatable sections. Seriously, do yourself a favor this summer and get this book, a pool, and time to enjoy both! If you love Emily Henry and Abby Jimenez, you’ll adore Caitlin Moss!
*thank you to the author for allowing me to experience this glorious novel as an ARC.*
*thank you to the author for allowing me to experience this glorious novel as an ARC.*
August 23, 2023
it just, i don't know i am definitely the minority here but it just was not my cup of coffee. i felt that the all plot was around miscommunication trope when they did had one thousand opportunities to talk about the past, but they were to stubornd to do it and honestly it just annoied me. i did not feel the chemestry between the characteres and some of the sidecharacters were also annoing! i cant put my finger in what exactly was laking but something definitly was indeed missing.
May 15, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ MAY 30th RELEASE REVIEW
Now this is the type of romance books I LOVE. We have a confident FMC who is so clearly sure on what she deserves and wants 👏🏻 Then there’s the humble yet hot, brother’s best friend who wants nothing more than a second chance. And then of course, Caitlin Moss, who makes Genevieve and Leo’s love feel so REAL. It isn’t all wrapped in a bow, like real life never is - that sometimes to know the true value of a once in a lifetime kind of love, you need to remember who loved you first.
This was the first book to make me cry in a while. The touches of family, a mother’s love and childhood really take this book higher. And, it just so happens that my dad’s specialty is a grilled cheese too.
“He's her brother's best friend... ...she's his biggest regret. Genevieve Michaels didn’t realize how much emotional preparation she needed to do for her brother’s wedding. But when Leo Bishop walks into the bar five days before the big day, she’s reminded of exactly why she can’t stand her brother’s best friend...and exactly why she plans to steer clear of him all week. But within minutes, Leo and Genevieve are back to their usual childish antics. They grew up together, and they have a lot in common: their love for basketball and her brother, along with their innate ability to pick a fight with each other. But not this week. This week Genevieve is determined to play nice and avoid him as much as possible. When wedding chaos ensues, Leo and Genevieve are forced to work together to ensure the wedding goes off without a hitch. As they eliminate each disaster, they uncover all the reasons they can’t stand each other, and all the reasons they once thought it could be love.”
Now this is the type of romance books I LOVE. We have a confident FMC who is so clearly sure on what she deserves and wants 👏🏻 Then there’s the humble yet hot, brother’s best friend who wants nothing more than a second chance. And then of course, Caitlin Moss, who makes Genevieve and Leo’s love feel so REAL. It isn’t all wrapped in a bow, like real life never is - that sometimes to know the true value of a once in a lifetime kind of love, you need to remember who loved you first.
This was the first book to make me cry in a while. The touches of family, a mother’s love and childhood really take this book higher. And, it just so happens that my dad’s specialty is a grilled cheese too.
“He's her brother's best friend... ...she's his biggest regret. Genevieve Michaels didn’t realize how much emotional preparation she needed to do for her brother’s wedding. But when Leo Bishop walks into the bar five days before the big day, she’s reminded of exactly why she can’t stand her brother’s best friend...and exactly why she plans to steer clear of him all week. But within minutes, Leo and Genevieve are back to their usual childish antics. They grew up together, and they have a lot in common: their love for basketball and her brother, along with their innate ability to pick a fight with each other. But not this week. This week Genevieve is determined to play nice and avoid him as much as possible. When wedding chaos ensues, Leo and Genevieve are forced to work together to ensure the wedding goes off without a hitch. As they eliminate each disaster, they uncover all the reasons they can’t stand each other, and all the reasons they once thought it could be love.”
June 24, 2023
4.5!! Second chance romance, brother’s best friend and a lil sprinkle of “enemies to lovers” - all of my favorite things 🥹 The history between these two was so perfect. Sometimes it’s hard to actually feel a bond between two characters when it’s been a long time since they’ve seen each other but this book nailed it. I loved the wedding setting, random flashbacks, mentions of grief and a fun little friend group. Some parts felt repetitive and unnecessary so not giving 5 stars but this was so good!
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