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The First Best Man
Hands off the best man.
A warning from my best friend, Penny, and a solid piece of advice as the wedding party gathers for a week-long celebration before her big day.
Being the maid of honor, I’ve been paired as partners in the wedding games with the rich playboy of a best man, J.T. Gibbs. Something that gives me pause considering I’m on the opposite end of the sexy-times spectrum from him.
Yep. I’m a twenty-nine-year-old virgin who’s barely been kissed.
Pathetic, I know.
But the best man proves to be more than his reputation allows, and as the week progresses, I’m finding it harder and harder to heed Penny’s advice.
Thankfully, he and I both agree that there are too many reasons to keep things simple between us. At least, we do until our quick friendship grows into more and the temptation becomes too much to resist.
So, we come to an agreement––he’ll be my first, make this a week I won’t soon forget, and then we’ll go our separate ways.
No strings. No regrets.
Should be easy enough, right?
Yeah. That’s what I keep telling myself.
A warning from my best friend, Penny, and a solid piece of advice as the wedding party gathers for a week-long celebration before her big day.
Being the maid of honor, I’ve been paired as partners in the wedding games with the rich playboy of a best man, J.T. Gibbs. Something that gives me pause considering I’m on the opposite end of the sexy-times spectrum from him.
Yep. I’m a twenty-nine-year-old virgin who’s barely been kissed.
Pathetic, I know.
But the best man proves to be more than his reputation allows, and as the week progresses, I’m finding it harder and harder to heed Penny’s advice.
Thankfully, he and I both agree that there are too many reasons to keep things simple between us. At least, we do until our quick friendship grows into more and the temptation becomes too much to resist.
So, we come to an agreement––he’ll be my first, make this a week I won’t soon forget, and then we’ll go our separate ways.
No strings. No regrets.
Should be easy enough, right?
Yeah. That’s what I keep telling myself.
- GenresRomance
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 4, 2024
16 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Piper James
37 books287 followersPiper James lives in Idaho with her husband, two teenage sons, two cats, and a dog.
Her favorite things are romance novels, coffee, potato chips, and her Jeep Wrangler…and her family, of course. Seriously. She loves her family more than coffee and her jeep. *exaggerated wink*
When she’s not writing, she watches ghost shows and spends most of her time trying to convince her family their house is haunted. Because it is.
She wrote YA paranormal romance for 6 years under the name Wendi Wilson before giving into her desire to write spicy romcoms, and it was the best career decision she’s ever made…until she decides to write a book about the ghosts. Because they are definitely real.
Her favorite things are romance novels, coffee, potato chips, and her Jeep Wrangler…and her family, of course. Seriously. She loves her family more than coffee and her jeep. *exaggerated wink*
When she’s not writing, she watches ghost shows and spends most of her time trying to convince her family their house is haunted. Because it is.
She wrote YA paranormal romance for 6 years under the name Wendi Wilson before giving into her desire to write spicy romcoms, and it was the best career decision she’s ever made…until she decides to write a book about the ghosts. Because they are definitely real.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 5, 2024
What a fun story!
Kate's sitting in her bar, eating some fries when a stranger comes in and defends her honor. And there's a connection starting. But he leaves a little after so she doesn't get a chance to get to know him. Her best friend is getting married soon, and Penny has some ideas for some fun before the wedding.
Games. In pairs. And who should be Kate's partner? Why the best man. Who's the guy from the bar. Who her best friend warns her away from. He's on a different playing field than Kate is. And Penny doesn't want her to get hurt. Because Kate is pretty inexperienced. And Tucker is.
It's a really fun time. They're on a Island where Kate and Penny grew up on. The other bridesmaid (the grooms sis) is definitely feeling Tucker. But even though he was warned to leave Kate alone, it's really hard when both are having such a great time. And chemistry.
It's sweet, steamy, and like I said, really funny. And a standalone! What's not to love?
Kate's sitting in her bar, eating some fries when a stranger comes in and defends her honor. And there's a connection starting. But he leaves a little after so she doesn't get a chance to get to know him. Her best friend is getting married soon, and Penny has some ideas for some fun before the wedding.
Games. In pairs. And who should be Kate's partner? Why the best man. Who's the guy from the bar. Who her best friend warns her away from. He's on a different playing field than Kate is. And Penny doesn't want her to get hurt. Because Kate is pretty inexperienced. And Tucker is.
It's a really fun time. They're on a Island where Kate and Penny grew up on. The other bridesmaid (the grooms sis) is definitely feeling Tucker. But even though he was warned to leave Kate alone, it's really hard when both are having such a great time. And chemistry.
It's sweet, steamy, and like I said, really funny. And a standalone! What's not to love?
August 7, 2025
This book had everything I wanted, funny vibes, sweet romance, and two characters who just clicked from the start. Kate was super likable, a small town girl running her own place, and Tucker had that badboy charm but turned out to be surprisingly caring. Their banter was hilarious and the tension between them felt real without being too much. I laughed so many times. The setup was classic rom-com, warned to stay away from each other, but of course, the chemistry made that impossible. Also, the island setting gave the whole story a chill vibe, I felt very relaxed while reading, like I was on that island. The author made every moment feel alive. The romance wasn’t rushed, and their connection grew through playful moments, and honest conversations. Absolutely loved it. Thank you so much to the author for gifting me a copy of her book and giving me the opportunity to read it, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
October 10, 2024
Kate and Tucker’s story is an absolute gem—funny, heartwarming, and undeniably steamy! I found myself completely captivated, devouring the book in one sitting. From the very first page, I was drawn into their world and couldn't put it down. I loved every second of it!
I loved how Tucker fell for Kate first. He starts off with a reputation as a charming player, but it quickly becomes clear that he’s a goner for her from the get-go. Watching their relationship unfold was a delight; the tension between them sizzled, especially as they navigated their desires while engaging in those entertaining wedding games. Each scene felt fresh and exciting, making me cheer for them every step of the way.
The humor sprinkled throughout the story added another layer of enjoyment. I found myself laughing out loud at their banter and escapades they got themselves into. Piper does an incredible job of balancing the light-hearted moments with genuine emotional depth, making the characters relatable and their journey all the more captivating.
And I have to mention the cravings this book made me have! I ended up making chili cheese fries for dinner because I couldn’t get them out of my mind. It’s a testament to how vividly Piper writes—she truly brings every scene to life.
Overall, this book was a delightful escape, and I loved every moment of Kate and Tucker's adventure. I can’t wait to see what Piper dreams up next—her storytelling never fails to impress!
I loved how Tucker fell for Kate first. He starts off with a reputation as a charming player, but it quickly becomes clear that he’s a goner for her from the get-go. Watching their relationship unfold was a delight; the tension between them sizzled, especially as they navigated their desires while engaging in those entertaining wedding games. Each scene felt fresh and exciting, making me cheer for them every step of the way.
The humor sprinkled throughout the story added another layer of enjoyment. I found myself laughing out loud at their banter and escapades they got themselves into. Piper does an incredible job of balancing the light-hearted moments with genuine emotional depth, making the characters relatable and their journey all the more captivating.
And I have to mention the cravings this book made me have! I ended up making chili cheese fries for dinner because I couldn’t get them out of my mind. It’s a testament to how vividly Piper writes—she truly brings every scene to life.
Overall, this book was a delightful escape, and I loved every moment of Kate and Tucker's adventure. I can’t wait to see what Piper dreams up next—her storytelling never fails to impress!
October 11, 2024
I always know what I'm getting when I read some of Piper's books: well-written, funny, and fantastic stories and the same goes for The First Best Man. I fell in love with Kate and Tucker and didn't put the book down before the last page <3
September 18, 2024
RomCom Smalltown Romance: The First Best Man Piper James
The First Best Man by Piper James is a delightful rom-com set in a charming small town. The story revolves around Kate and Tucker, who are the Maid of Honor and Best Man at their best friends’ wedding. From the moment they meet, there’s an instant attraction, leading to a playful “should I or shouldn’t I” dynamic.
Tucker, known for avoiding relationships, finds himself drawn to Kate, who is looking for all the big feels. Despite their friends’ attempts to discourage their budding romance, the chemistry between Kate and Tucker is undeniable. Their witty banter and humorous interactions had me chuckling throughout the book.
I particularly enjoyed how their relationship developed through fun activities, allowing them to build a solid friendship while navigating their mutual attraction. This book brought a smile to my face and gave me the warm fuzzies, making it a perfect read for anyone who loves a heartwarming romance with a touch of humor.
The First Best Man by Piper James is a delightful rom-com set in a charming small town. The story revolves around Kate and Tucker, who are the Maid of Honor and Best Man at their best friends’ wedding. From the moment they meet, there’s an instant attraction, leading to a playful “should I or shouldn’t I” dynamic.
Tucker, known for avoiding relationships, finds himself drawn to Kate, who is looking for all the big feels. Despite their friends’ attempts to discourage their budding romance, the chemistry between Kate and Tucker is undeniable. Their witty banter and humorous interactions had me chuckling throughout the book.
I particularly enjoyed how their relationship developed through fun activities, allowing them to build a solid friendship while navigating their mutual attraction. This book brought a smile to my face and gave me the warm fuzzies, making it a perfect read for anyone who loves a heartwarming romance with a touch of humor.
October 4, 2024
Piper James delivers a delightful romantic comedy with The First Best Man, the story of Kate and Tucker—two seemingly mismatched individuals thrown together as the maid of honor and best man in their friends' wedding. What starts as a battle of wills soon turns into a charming and tension-filled “will they or won’t they” romance that’s both lighthearted and compelling.
Tucker, unfairly branded as a notorious ladies' man, is much more than the reputation that precedes him. On the other hand, Kate, with her limited experience in the intimacy department, is wary of Tucker's perceived playboy ways. The dynamic between them is a perfect example of opposites attracting, with each of them navigating their own doubts and desires. The push-and-pull between the two characters is captivating—there’s a constant underlying tension that keeps you flipping pages, waiting to see if they'll give in to their growing attraction or resist.
One of the standout features of The First Best Man is the witty banter and chemistry between Kate and Tucker. Piper James does a fantastic job of creating believable tension between the two, balancing moments of humor and sweetness with steamy attraction. Both characters are well-developed, and their emotional journeys are relatable and satisfying to follow. Kate's cautiousness and Tucker’s vulnerability add depth to their story, making it more than just a simple romantic comedy.
The book itself is an easy, enjoyable read, perfect for fans of contemporary romance. The pacing is smooth, and the story is engaging without feeling rushed. It's the kind of book that makes you smile, laugh, and root for the characters to get their happy ending. Even though the plot follows some familiar tropes, James brings enough freshness to the story to keep it interesting and thoroughly enjoyable.
Tucker, unfairly branded as a notorious ladies' man, is much more than the reputation that precedes him. On the other hand, Kate, with her limited experience in the intimacy department, is wary of Tucker's perceived playboy ways. The dynamic between them is a perfect example of opposites attracting, with each of them navigating their own doubts and desires. The push-and-pull between the two characters is captivating—there’s a constant underlying tension that keeps you flipping pages, waiting to see if they'll give in to their growing attraction or resist.
One of the standout features of The First Best Man is the witty banter and chemistry between Kate and Tucker. Piper James does a fantastic job of creating believable tension between the two, balancing moments of humor and sweetness with steamy attraction. Both characters are well-developed, and their emotional journeys are relatable and satisfying to follow. Kate's cautiousness and Tucker’s vulnerability add depth to their story, making it more than just a simple romantic comedy.
The book itself is an easy, enjoyable read, perfect for fans of contemporary romance. The pacing is smooth, and the story is engaging without feeling rushed. It's the kind of book that makes you smile, laugh, and root for the characters to get their happy ending. Even though the plot follows some familiar tropes, James brings enough freshness to the story to keep it interesting and thoroughly enjoyable.
October 3, 2024
I love a good wedding themed romance! Kate is a bridesmaid in her best friend, Penny’s wedding. To kick off the wedding week, she and the best man plus the bride and groom are doing a series of activities and games with each other. Kate’s a sweet, small town girl but is told that the best man is off-limits. Tucker’s the best man in his best friend’s wedding and is known for only being a casual guy until he meets Kate. Tucker immediately is attracted to Kate and can’t stop thinking about her, only issue is, he lives in San Francisco and is heir to his family’s company. I loved watching them to turn into friends and them battle between “should we or should we not.” Piper James’ words could make you feel like you are actually there watching everything unfold. This book was really fun to read- funny but also romantic.
October 5, 2024
This was one of the funniest romcoms I've read lately! It was full of pranks, games, banter and swoon-worthy romance. And I laughed out loud so many times at their antics.
Kate and Tucker get paired together during the week of festivities leading up to their best friends wedding. They have been warned by the bride and groom not to get involved with each other. Tucker is a player and will be leaving the day after the wedding. Kate is a 29 year old virgin and lives in town as a restaurant owner. But as they spend more time together, Tucker starts to realize how special Kate is, and he falls first. And she is finding that he's really the best man in every sense of the word.
Piper James is the queen of delightful romcoms, and this book is no exception. Highly recommend this sweet love story!
Kate and Tucker get paired together during the week of festivities leading up to their best friends wedding. They have been warned by the bride and groom not to get involved with each other. Tucker is a player and will be leaving the day after the wedding. Kate is a 29 year old virgin and lives in town as a restaurant owner. But as they spend more time together, Tucker starts to realize how special Kate is, and he falls first. And she is finding that he's really the best man in every sense of the word.
Piper James is the queen of delightful romcoms, and this book is no exception. Highly recommend this sweet love story!
October 2, 2024
This is the story of Kate, life long islander, business owner, and maid of honor to her bff who’s getting married; and Tucker, city man with family money, player, and best man.
The two have an instant attraction to one another other but are both told by their soon to be married friends to steer clear of each other due to Tuckers reputation with the ladies.
Kate and Tucker decide they’re adults and will choose who to spend their time with. They become fast friends and realize quickly they’re perfect for each other.
This story has all the good feels. Friends to lovers, island romance, small town community, HEA. I read this in less than a day. One of the best feel good rom-coms Ive read recently.
The two have an instant attraction to one another other but are both told by their soon to be married friends to steer clear of each other due to Tuckers reputation with the ladies.
Kate and Tucker decide they’re adults and will choose who to spend their time with. They become fast friends and realize quickly they’re perfect for each other.
This story has all the good feels. Friends to lovers, island romance, small town community, HEA. I read this in less than a day. One of the best feel good rom-coms Ive read recently.
October 14, 2024
Piper James has done it again! I love the spicy romcoms she writes and how the reader is drawn into the worlds she creates. This book is not connected to her other books, (at least not that I could tell) but I still felt a sense of familiarity with the characters and the small town. The chemistry between Kate and Tucker is tangible and the fact that their best friends are getting married only makes the reader cheer them on more. I love the protective nature of Tucker and how he always stands up for Kate. I also love the support from friends and family in the end.
Readers who enjoy a good small town romance, a spicy romcom and all the feel good romances will love this book, and this author!
Readers who enjoy a good small town romance, a spicy romcom and all the feel good romances will love this book, and this author!
October 9, 2024
Kate and Tucker two very different people meet by chance when he fiercely defends her honor and then discover they have mutual friends who are getting married
Kate is a beautiful sweet, innocent, funny, smart bar owner who you never guess hasn’t lost her virginity and has barley been kissed
Tucker is equally funny and handsome but he’s definitely a playboy and been warned to keep his hands to himself when it come to Kate
The pair are coupled together for some wedding games and tons of laughter and eventually some spicy times happen!!!
Must read
Kate is a beautiful sweet, innocent, funny, smart bar owner who you never guess hasn’t lost her virginity and has barley been kissed
Tucker is equally funny and handsome but he’s definitely a playboy and been warned to keep his hands to himself when it come to Kate
The pair are coupled together for some wedding games and tons of laughter and eventually some spicy times happen!!!
Must read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2024
Fun. Flirty. Fabulous. Fast Read.
I. Could. NOT. Put. This. Book. Down.
I dont tend to read very fast these days, and this book had me wanting MORE all the way thru.
This is my favorite type of romcom, super fun, all sorts of silly moments, HOT moments.. the almosts that get the butterflies going in your belly. Oh I love those so much.
I truly enjoyed reading about Kate and Tucker.. two complete opposites that get put together in adventures during a wedding pre party of events.
Awesome book. Highly recommend. Piper James is a freaking legend when it comes to the perfect romcom!!
I. Could. NOT. Put. This. Book. Down.
I dont tend to read very fast these days, and this book had me wanting MORE all the way thru.
This is my favorite type of romcom, super fun, all sorts of silly moments, HOT moments.. the almosts that get the butterflies going in your belly. Oh I love those so much.
I truly enjoyed reading about Kate and Tucker.. two complete opposites that get put together in adventures during a wedding pre party of events.
Awesome book. Highly recommend. Piper James is a freaking legend when it comes to the perfect romcom!!
September 23, 2024
I loved this sweet, small-town romance centered around the upcoming wedding of the protagonists' best friends. Kate is brilliant, spunky, and living her best life when Tucker shows up to shake it up and rock her world. This swoon-worthy best man definitely gives Kate a run for her money--and her heart--in this fun-filled read about being willing to put it all on the line to win your own game of life.
October 1, 2024
Lovely humourous take on virgin and playboy. KAyes best friend Penny is getting married Kate's been paired up with JT -Tucker for a week of fun and games before the wedding there is instant attraction when first meet without knowing other is but both disappear before they can take things further he's earned off from groom that she's a virgin but the attraction grows plenty of laughs along the way
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2024
This was a cute story about Kate and Tucker and how their relationship developed. I enjoyed seeing how their story unfolded and how things progressed between them. They were adorable together from the beginning, and it was great seeing how they went from trying to fight the feelings between them to just jumping into things.
I did like that while there was tension in the third act, there really was no third act breakup, so that was definitely a plus.
I did like that while there was tension in the third act, there really was no third act breakup, so that was definitely a plus.
October 12, 2024
This was an absolutely adorable, Piper James classic rom com. I loved Kate, JT, and their group of friends and got through the book in a few hours. I liked the idea of a small-town island community where everyone knows everyone and the mysterious best man swoops in and is smitten with everyone's favorite person. I thought the book was well developed and that the characters were all likeable and had good chemistry. I really liked this book and would totally read a spinoff!
October 22, 2024
Amazing, hilarious and so so perfect.
I am stunned every time I read a Piper James masterpiece at how easy the story is to imagine, this book is no different, it is the perfect story. If you haven't read any of her books before then I would strongly recommend you do so immediately!!
I am stunned every time I read a Piper James masterpiece at how easy the story is to imagine, this book is no different, it is the perfect story. If you haven't read any of her books before then I would strongly recommend you do so immediately!!
February 25, 2025
kate is a brides maid at her bestfriend weedding and tucker is the grooms best man. tucker like what he see when he meets kate and kate is causion ouf the infamous playboy. kate has own bussines on the island and tucker is an heir to his family company. If you Like small town roamce, rom-com friends to lover this is for you
September 27, 2024
A Small town romance, Kate and Tucker story is a quick and easy read Piper has written these two perfectly there is humour, steam and a virgin/playboy storyline were you just want to keep turning the page to see were these two end up.
For me it 4🌟 read
For me it 4🌟 read
November 11, 2024
Ahh another 5 star for me from Piper. I adored Kissing Flynn and now this is my second fave of her books. Tucker was just swoon from the get go and I loved Kate.
✔️dual pov
✔️spice
✔️he falls first and harder
✔️dual pov
✔️spice
✔️he falls first and harder
March 3, 2025
Cheeky, fun, and Charming!
This book took me on a fun journey! With descriptions that has me imagining this beautiful isle and all it contains! Plus a fantastic love story! Love the characters! Our main gal, her best friend and the guys, just adore them!
This book took me on a fun journey! With descriptions that has me imagining this beautiful isle and all it contains! Plus a fantastic love story! Love the characters! Our main gal, her best friend and the guys, just adore them!
October 4, 2024
Amazing!
This story will make you falling love with the characters. I have laughed out loud multiple times. It is fun and a little spicy 😍. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
This story will make you falling love with the characters. I have laughed out loud multiple times. It is fun and a little spicy 😍. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.
October 5, 2024
I loved this! It was fun, engaging, steamy and had a great story line. The characters were developed, funny and had excellent chemistry. This was a perfect story and I couldn’t put it down.
October 5, 2024
I love a good romantic comedy with some good spice and this book fits the bill! Piper James is one of my favorite romance writers and I can always count on her books for a good time.
October 18, 2024
I LOVE PIPER JAMES. From the laughter to the heartache, The First Best Man, glows with personality. A firework that sparkles, delivers emotion that just won't quit.
October 19, 2024
4.75 stars. Loved this story and the banter between them was so good and cute. Love a feisty FMC and plus size is a bonus.
February 6, 2025
Sweet, funny, and spicy. The perfect palette cleanser book!
October 1, 2024
I read this book in under 2 days, and that was only because work got in the way. LOL. This book has everything; fun, banter, comedy and it is HOT!
October 10, 2024
He’s mister love em and leave them heir to his families business empire and she’s the sweet curvy girl whose always wanted forever but never found it a chance meeting and a week on a small island for their mutual friends wedding changes their lives in the most adorable unexpected way possible
October 13, 2024
As with every single book I’ve read from this author, this one was another amazing read. It was funny and sweet. And you couldn’t help but fall in love with these characters and this lovely island.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews