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Right the First Time
He’s the smoking-hot football star.
I’m the nerd just trying to graduate.
So why does he keep staring at me?
I’ve always been the girl guys ignore until they need my class notes. But being invisible suits me. I’m at college to keep my head down, get accepted to grad school and hopefully save my dysfunctional family.
Simple enough—until Cam Forrester looks my way.
I’m not about to get sidetracked by some sexy wide receiver. The last time I trusted a man like him I got burned so bad I still can’t shake the dark memories.
But when Cam rescues me from one of the most humiliating moments of my life, I realize this cold, cocky athlete isn’t so cold when he’s around me.
So when he vows to prove to me he’s more than meets the eye…well, what girl wouldn’t give in?
Trust a heartbreaker with my fragile heart?
That’s a dangerous play.
And I’m all in.
Right the First Time is book 1 of the Shafer U series
I’m the nerd just trying to graduate.
So why does he keep staring at me?
I’ve always been the girl guys ignore until they need my class notes. But being invisible suits me. I’m at college to keep my head down, get accepted to grad school and hopefully save my dysfunctional family.
Simple enough—until Cam Forrester looks my way.
I’m not about to get sidetracked by some sexy wide receiver. The last time I trusted a man like him I got burned so bad I still can’t shake the dark memories.
But when Cam rescues me from one of the most humiliating moments of my life, I realize this cold, cocky athlete isn’t so cold when he’s around me.
So when he vows to prove to me he’s more than meets the eye…well, what girl wouldn’t give in?
Trust a heartbreaker with my fragile heart?
That’s a dangerous play.
And I’m all in.
Right the First Time is book 1 of the Shafer U series
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2025
591 people are currently reading
774 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Vail
4 books43 followersWelcome!
I write spicy romances with realistic characters and plenty of delicious tension.
I live in the Midwest with my husband, kids and rescue pup.
When I'm not writing, you can find me in the garden (give me all the dahlias
and peonies!), cooking (pasta for the win) or planning my next hike.
Instagram: @kristenvailbooks
TikTok: @kristenvailbooks
I write spicy romances with realistic characters and plenty of delicious tension.
I live in the Midwest with my husband, kids and rescue pup.
When I'm not writing, you can find me in the garden (give me all the dahlias
and peonies!), cooking (pasta for the win) or planning my next hike.
Instagram: @kristenvailbooks
TikTok: @kristenvailbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
January 24, 2025
I should have DNF'd this book. I couldn't get into it and it took me way to long to read. I didn't like Lenni at all. She let her past control her too much. She was so focused on revenge that it effected everything she did. The girl seriously needed help. Also she would go between revenge and then not letting the revenge take over. It was giving me whiplash. Also Cameron was no hero either. He was too worried about being perfect and I am glad he stood up for himself in the end but it was too much.
February 20, 2025
Right the First Time is Lenni and Cam’s story. They first meet and instantly connect one lonely night during their freshman year of college. Both needed a quiet place and the end up sharing a bench and talking. But when the night came to a close they went their separate ways.
Fast forward to their senior year and Lennie and Cam are reunited but this time, things between them aren’t as easy and kissmet as they once felt. Cam thinks Lennie changed and not for the better and Lenni doesn’t seem to realize that her mystery dream guy, Forrest and Cam are one and the same. Needless to say, their reunion gets off on the wrong foot.
This was a case of the right person, wrong time.
I liked that the story slowly starts to take shape through a few trial and error moments. Our MCs are both hopeful and wary of exploring their connection and it leads to a lot of cute, vulnerable and emotional moments that build up to a strong relationship. This is a college romance so our young protagonists come with their fair share of drama, angst and emotional yo-yoing.
Our Hero is a football player and there is some mention of the sport but it’s not overly done. I admit that Cam is my favorite character. I loved his silent strength, his loyalty and his determination to prove he’s deserving of Lenni’s trust and heart. Lenni was also a great character but she did have her moments where she let her past color her actions.
I loved the romantic ending and bonus points for the perfect epilogue we get of the whole gang together again!
SAFETY INFO:
#justalittlereading #romanceread #collegeromance #instalove #friendstolovers #skittishheroine #collegeromance #oldiebutgoodie #bookish
Fast forward to their senior year and Lennie and Cam are reunited but this time, things between them aren’t as easy and kissmet as they once felt. Cam thinks Lennie changed and not for the better and Lenni doesn’t seem to realize that her mystery dream guy, Forrest and Cam are one and the same. Needless to say, their reunion gets off on the wrong foot.
This was a case of the right person, wrong time.
I liked that the story slowly starts to take shape through a few trial and error moments. Our MCs are both hopeful and wary of exploring their connection and it leads to a lot of cute, vulnerable and emotional moments that build up to a strong relationship. This is a college romance so our young protagonists come with their fair share of drama, angst and emotional yo-yoing.
Our Hero is a football player and there is some mention of the sport but it’s not overly done. I admit that Cam is my favorite character. I loved his silent strength, his loyalty and his determination to prove he’s deserving of Lenni’s trust and heart. Lenni was also a great character but she did have her moments where she let her past color her actions.
I loved the romantic ending and bonus points for the perfect epilogue we get of the whole gang together again!
SAFETY INFO:
#justalittlereading #romanceread #collegeromance #instalove #friendstolovers #skittishheroine #collegeromance #oldiebutgoodie #bookish
January 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
“And when my eyes finally open to the night sky, the whole world has changed.”
This is the debut novel for Kristen Vail, and I will say, this book had me laughing and then feeling all the feelings.
Cam and Lenni meet their freshman year when both are struggling with their new found freedom of college.
When Lenni catches the attention of Cam’s best friend a couple years later, he can’t understand why she doesn’t realize it’s him.
Lenni had been wondering if she would ever run into her mystery man, but he looked different then and gave her a different name.
When everything boils over, they both have to get over their past family trauma, together to be able to grow together.
From the very beginning you can definitely tell Cam has been obsessed with Lenni since that day in the garden.
Lenni has been just trying to feel like she did in that garden.
But she doesn’t know if she can be in a relationship with the schools star wide receiver.
This books banter was great between the MC’s.
Their jokes were funny towards each other.
I feel like Lenni was the one always pushing Cam away so I wish was the one in the end to give the grand gesture of getting him back.
Cam was so patient and sweet to her.
Tropes:
🏈Football romance
🩷Hurt/comfort
🏈Jock x nerd
🩷He falls first
🏈Mistaken identity
🩷Opposites attract
🏈Dual POV
🩷Angst
🏈First love
🩷Midsize FMC
“And when my eyes finally open to the night sky, the whole world has changed.”
This is the debut novel for Kristen Vail, and I will say, this book had me laughing and then feeling all the feelings.
Cam and Lenni meet their freshman year when both are struggling with their new found freedom of college.
When Lenni catches the attention of Cam’s best friend a couple years later, he can’t understand why she doesn’t realize it’s him.
Lenni had been wondering if she would ever run into her mystery man, but he looked different then and gave her a different name.
When everything boils over, they both have to get over their past family trauma, together to be able to grow together.
From the very beginning you can definitely tell Cam has been obsessed with Lenni since that day in the garden.
Lenni has been just trying to feel like she did in that garden.
But she doesn’t know if she can be in a relationship with the schools star wide receiver.
This books banter was great between the MC’s.
Their jokes were funny towards each other.
I feel like Lenni was the one always pushing Cam away so I wish was the one in the end to give the grand gesture of getting him back.
Cam was so patient and sweet to her.
Tropes:
🏈Football romance
🩷Hurt/comfort
🏈Jock x nerd
🩷He falls first
🏈Mistaken identity
🩷Opposites attract
🏈Dual POV
🩷Angst
🏈First love
🩷Midsize FMC
January 20, 2025
Cam and Lennie meet freshmen year by chance. They spent most of the night talking, but for a series of cirmunstances they don't see each other again around campus for a couple of years. But they have never forgotten each other.
Lennie doesn't recognise Cam, when she starts to lust after Cam's friend and fellow class and teammate. But one might, when Lennie embarasses herself, Cam comes to rescue, trying as much as he can to make her see he was the boy she talked to that night a couple of years prior.
Their relationship in sweet, they both come from traumatic pasts and never been in serious relationsips. But though Cam tries his best to meet halfway and trust Lennie, she is not so ready to trust him and what she feels for him. Most of their relatioship is based on misunderstanding and mistrust.
I like it a lot, Cam is very nice and he always says and does the right things. I would have loved to see Lennie a bit more involved in their relationships and trying her best to win him over for once.
Thank you Kristen Vail and The Author Agency for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
Lennie doesn't recognise Cam, when she starts to lust after Cam's friend and fellow class and teammate. But one might, when Lennie embarasses herself, Cam comes to rescue, trying as much as he can to make her see he was the boy she talked to that night a couple of years prior.
Their relationship in sweet, they both come from traumatic pasts and never been in serious relationsips. But though Cam tries his best to meet halfway and trust Lennie, she is not so ready to trust him and what she feels for him. Most of their relatioship is based on misunderstanding and mistrust.
I like it a lot, Cam is very nice and he always says and does the right things. I would have loved to see Lennie a bit more involved in their relationships and trying her best to win him over for once.
Thank you Kristen Vail and The Author Agency for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
January 25, 2025
Quote: “That healing doesn’t always happen linearly. That life was once different, and it won’t ever be that way again. That there is therapy and apologies and punishments, but sometimes they won’t mean anything. But that someone making the wrong choice can mean everything when they are doing it for you.”
To be young and in love and still learning the ropes of relationships was what this book was all about. Definitely a bit young for me but it definitely brought back memories of my first love and high school and college years being in a long term and at parts a long distance relationship. Oh the misunderstandings, fears, bad decisions, accusations, hurt and so many more emotions that come with young love that can and will shape your future. What I know today I wanted to shout at Lenni and Cam throughout this book but the storyline needed to play out in their timeline. This book definitely made me want to go back to my first love and do things differently. Sometimes youth is wasted on the young.
Thank you to Author Kristen Vail for the ARC Copy.
To be young and in love and still learning the ropes of relationships was what this book was all about. Definitely a bit young for me but it definitely brought back memories of my first love and high school and college years being in a long term and at parts a long distance relationship. Oh the misunderstandings, fears, bad decisions, accusations, hurt and so many more emotions that come with young love that can and will shape your future. What I know today I wanted to shout at Lenni and Cam throughout this book but the storyline needed to play out in their timeline. This book definitely made me want to go back to my first love and do things differently. Sometimes youth is wasted on the young.
Thank you to Author Kristen Vail for the ARC Copy.
January 30, 2025
This was a great introduction to Kristen’s writing,as this story contains some of my favorite tropes to enjoy:
🫶🏼Sports Romance
🫶🏼Patient/emotionally mature MMC
🫶🏼nerd/ jock
🫶🏼opposites attract
🫶🏼He Falls first
Cam is a fantastic male main character in that he is sensitive and kind, has a conscience and a strong moral compass, which allows him to be a leader on the field and in his everyday life.
I loved how patient he was with Lenore, and that even when she was pushing him away and scared of embracing her feelings for him, he remained steadfast and understanding while she sorted through her feelings. He was a good son, brother, friend and partner, and I can’t say enough good things about him.
Lenni is a female main character who experienced much trauma and embarrassment in high school,and it followed her to college regardless of the fact, that she was four hours away from her childhood home. Past bullying means that she doesn’t trust very easily, especially when it comes to her heart, mind and body.
Seeing her open up and embrace a new image, get physically and mentally fit while she was working on balancing her hormones and emotions was refreshing to see because it gives hope to readers that past trauma doesn’t have to negatively affect you for the rest of your life. Healing is available, and sometimes you need to give yourself the grace to forgive others while simultaneously benefiting yourself and removing bitterness from your heart and life.
A fantastic set of side characters made this book all the more enjoyable, and I greatly look forward to seeing their stories come to fruition in the future .
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🥵🥵🥵
🫶🏼Sports Romance
🫶🏼Patient/emotionally mature MMC
🫶🏼nerd/ jock
🫶🏼opposites attract
🫶🏼He Falls first
Cam is a fantastic male main character in that he is sensitive and kind, has a conscience and a strong moral compass, which allows him to be a leader on the field and in his everyday life.
I loved how patient he was with Lenore, and that even when she was pushing him away and scared of embracing her feelings for him, he remained steadfast and understanding while she sorted through her feelings. He was a good son, brother, friend and partner, and I can’t say enough good things about him.
Lenni is a female main character who experienced much trauma and embarrassment in high school,and it followed her to college regardless of the fact, that she was four hours away from her childhood home. Past bullying means that she doesn’t trust very easily, especially when it comes to her heart, mind and body.
Seeing her open up and embrace a new image, get physically and mentally fit while she was working on balancing her hormones and emotions was refreshing to see because it gives hope to readers that past trauma doesn’t have to negatively affect you for the rest of your life. Healing is available, and sometimes you need to give yourself the grace to forgive others while simultaneously benefiting yourself and removing bitterness from your heart and life.
A fantastic set of side characters made this book all the more enjoyable, and I greatly look forward to seeing their stories come to fruition in the future .
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🥵🥵🥵
November 10, 2025
I enjoyed this book mainly for Cam ... Lenniwas too quick to judge and throw in the towel and she was especially judgy with Reeve
Im happy they got their happily ever aftervand her mum got her life on track but she needed to do better especially as her expectations of Cam were HIGH
Im happy they got their happily ever aftervand her mum got her life on track but she needed to do better especially as her expectations of Cam were HIGH
February 25, 2025
“Right the First Time” is the first book in the “Shafer U Series” and Kristen’s debut novel. I loved it! Cameron and Lennie have both not had the best upbringing, but for totally different reasons. Cameron Forrester is a wide receiver on the Shafer College Football team, a family tradition, with the added pressure from his mother to go pro. Is this what he wants though? Underneath his facade, Cameron is a closet nerd. Lennie is a struggling student financially and is a reporter on the college paper. She has no time and does not trust athletes, especially footballers. In high school, after being used and totally embarrassed by a friend she trusted and grew up with who was on the football team, she swore never to trust an athlete again. She also works hard to help her family out financially.
Cameron and Lennie first met by chance at Freshman orientation, escaping the mayhem. Hidden in the middle of campus is the sunken garden, a small rectangle of grass enclosed by shrubs, gnarled trees, and spiky ornamental grasses. A low stone wall doubling as a bench ran along all four sides of the space - peaceful and private. Cameron is enjoying the quiet when Lennie walks in crying. “It got quiet, but the mood had changed. Instead of two strangers silently trying to ignore each other, we were two strangers together in silence. At least that’s how I felt. And the way her body relaxed, and her tears dried up, I think she felt it too.” They spend the night talking, laughing and opening up to each other …. both making a lasting impression on each other. A few month’s latter, with Cameron in a drunken state, the encounter does not end well and ruins everything between them.
Cameron has never forgotten Lennie, but she appears not to recognise him. After Cameron rescues her from an embarrassing situation, she slowly lets the barriers down. Lennie starts to see the real Cameron, the one that loves literature, the one that fights for the underdog, the one that is sensitive and kind. She realises that he has a conscience and a strong morals, allowing him to be a leader on and off the field in his everyday life. You will fall in love with Cameron and Lennie, hoping that everything with work out for them and they have a future together. I know I did ….
This book will charm “the pants off you” and leave you going back for more. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful love story. This is a lovely book that will keep you hooked! It has fun, laughs, intrigue, twists that you do not expect, and physical attraction. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful love story 💗 From page to page, chapter to chapter, from cover to cover - you will enjoy this beautiful story! This book will not disappoint! Highly recommended 😊
Cameron and Lennie first met by chance at Freshman orientation, escaping the mayhem. Hidden in the middle of campus is the sunken garden, a small rectangle of grass enclosed by shrubs, gnarled trees, and spiky ornamental grasses. A low stone wall doubling as a bench ran along all four sides of the space - peaceful and private. Cameron is enjoying the quiet when Lennie walks in crying. “It got quiet, but the mood had changed. Instead of two strangers silently trying to ignore each other, we were two strangers together in silence. At least that’s how I felt. And the way her body relaxed, and her tears dried up, I think she felt it too.” They spend the night talking, laughing and opening up to each other …. both making a lasting impression on each other. A few month’s latter, with Cameron in a drunken state, the encounter does not end well and ruins everything between them.
Cameron has never forgotten Lennie, but she appears not to recognise him. After Cameron rescues her from an embarrassing situation, she slowly lets the barriers down. Lennie starts to see the real Cameron, the one that loves literature, the one that fights for the underdog, the one that is sensitive and kind. She realises that he has a conscience and a strong morals, allowing him to be a leader on and off the field in his everyday life. You will fall in love with Cameron and Lennie, hoping that everything with work out for them and they have a future together. I know I did ….
This book will charm “the pants off you” and leave you going back for more. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful love story. This is a lovely book that will keep you hooked! It has fun, laughs, intrigue, twists that you do not expect, and physical attraction. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful love story 💗 From page to page, chapter to chapter, from cover to cover - you will enjoy this beautiful story! This book will not disappoint! Highly recommended 😊
August 13, 2025
Lennie was lowkey annoying .. it was hard to sympathize with her .. Cam shouldn’t have been the one to grovel 😭
April 17, 2025
No. Just… no. I’m only giving this two stars because of Cam. He was a fantastic MMC—lovable, genuine, and honestly just a great guy all around. He carried this book on his back.
Lenni, on the other hand? Absolutely unbearable. She was annoying, idiotic, self-centered, and did I mention annoying? She wasn’t likable, she wasn’t charismatic, and I spent most of the book wishing she would just listen for once.
She tried to use her past trauma to vilify someone simply because he didn’t fall at her feet the second she showed up. She was warned—repeatedly—by multiple people to stay away from one of Cam’s friends, but she ignored every single warning. Then, when the exact thing everyone told her would happen actually happened, she wanted to play the victim. Girl. Stand up.
And don’t even get me started on how she treated Cam. She accused him of things without any proof—multiple times. Cam kept showing up, kept being a good guy, and honestly? He deserved so much better. Lenni was not it.
Lenni, on the other hand? Absolutely unbearable. She was annoying, idiotic, self-centered, and did I mention annoying? She wasn’t likable, she wasn’t charismatic, and I spent most of the book wishing she would just listen for once.
She tried to use her past trauma to vilify someone simply because he didn’t fall at her feet the second she showed up. She was warned—repeatedly—by multiple people to stay away from one of Cam’s friends, but she ignored every single warning. Then, when the exact thing everyone told her would happen actually happened, she wanted to play the victim. Girl. Stand up.
And don’t even get me started on how she treated Cam. She accused him of things without any proof—multiple times. Cam kept showing up, kept being a good guy, and honestly? He deserved so much better. Lenni was not it.
July 27, 2025
DNF @ 25%. Couldn’t get into this book. Lenni, the FMC was not my cup of tea. I found her to be stuck up, judgemental and rude.
July 19, 2025
fmc is soo stupid
dnf’d 60% of the book
dnf’d 60% of the book
January 29, 2025
A book that gives me all the feels was exactly what I needed, and found with Right the First Time. Well written with a great storyline.
🔥College Football Romance
🏈Opposites Attract
🔥He Falls First
🏈Nerd/Jock
🔥Hurt/Comfort
🏈Midsized FMC
🔥Mistaken identity
🏈First Love
🔥FMC with emotional scars
🏈Dual POV
🔥Who hurt you?
Lenni has had a rough go in life. Her home life is tough. She's taken on a lot of responsibility that shouldn't be on her shoulders. She's had to build up walls when it comes to trusting others to protect herself. High school was very unpleasant for her, leaving her with emotional scars that are hard to heal.
Cam doesn't have it easy either, but on a whole different scale. But as the saying goes, money doesn't buy happiness.
The struggles these two had to go through were tough, to say the least. Lenni is up front about not trusting, which I respect. When something big is revealed to Lenni, and she finds out Cam's ties to the situation, Lenni finds that it hits too close to home for her and her response isn't exactly how a journalist should react. But is it too late to rebuild the trust between Cam and Lenni or can they both see the other's heart being in the right place?
My synapsis without giving too much away:
Lenni and Cam first meet as freshman at college. Lenni going by Lenore (her full name) and Cam going by Forrest (part of his last name and him trying to be a new person). After they part ways that evening, Lenni does interact with Cam at a frat party, not knowing he is Forrest, but that interaction doesn't leave her wanting more.
Junior year, Lenni starts vying for the attention of the school star quarterback, Reeve, who also happens to be the best friend of Cam. She ends up getting the interest of Reeve and they start interacting more.
After an unfortunate and embarrassing event for Lenni, Cam is able to help rescue her from the situation. After that encounter, Cam works on getting to know her more and more. Even when she puts her walls up so high that it's near impossible to break them down.
I was excited to receive an ARC of this book from Kristen Vail and The Author Agency. Thank you for such an amazing book, with so much emotion. I highly recommend this to anyone that enjoys a good hockey romance with a sweet MMC that helps the FMC see her value and worth.
🔥College Football Romance
🏈Opposites Attract
🔥He Falls First
🏈Nerd/Jock
🔥Hurt/Comfort
🏈Midsized FMC
🔥Mistaken identity
🏈First Love
🔥FMC with emotional scars
🏈Dual POV
🔥Who hurt you?
Lenni has had a rough go in life. Her home life is tough. She's taken on a lot of responsibility that shouldn't be on her shoulders. She's had to build up walls when it comes to trusting others to protect herself. High school was very unpleasant for her, leaving her with emotional scars that are hard to heal.
Cam doesn't have it easy either, but on a whole different scale. But as the saying goes, money doesn't buy happiness.
The struggles these two had to go through were tough, to say the least. Lenni is up front about not trusting, which I respect. When something big is revealed to Lenni, and she finds out Cam's ties to the situation, Lenni finds that it hits too close to home for her and her response isn't exactly how a journalist should react. But is it too late to rebuild the trust between Cam and Lenni or can they both see the other's heart being in the right place?
My synapsis without giving too much away:
Lenni and Cam first meet as freshman at college. Lenni going by Lenore (her full name) and Cam going by Forrest (part of his last name and him trying to be a new person). After they part ways that evening, Lenni does interact with Cam at a frat party, not knowing he is Forrest, but that interaction doesn't leave her wanting more.
Junior year, Lenni starts vying for the attention of the school star quarterback, Reeve, who also happens to be the best friend of Cam. She ends up getting the interest of Reeve and they start interacting more.
After an unfortunate and embarrassing event for Lenni, Cam is able to help rescue her from the situation. After that encounter, Cam works on getting to know her more and more. Even when she puts her walls up so high that it's near impossible to break them down.
I was excited to receive an ARC of this book from Kristen Vail and The Author Agency. Thank you for such an amazing book, with so much emotion. I highly recommend this to anyone that enjoys a good hockey romance with a sweet MMC that helps the FMC see her value and worth.
January 17, 2025
🔥College Football Romance
🏈Opposites Attract
🔥He Falls First
🏈Nerd/Jock
🔥Hurt/Comfort
🏈Midsized FMC
🔥Mistaken identity
🏈First Love
🔥FMC with emotional scars
🏈Dual POV
🔥Who hurt you?
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Kristen Vail’s Right The First Time is a captivating college sports romance that masterfully blends heart, humor, and emotional depth. The story follows Cam Forrester, a confident and charismatic football star, and a bookish heroine Lenni who prefers to stay unnoticed. Focused on her academic success and determined to escape the chaos of her family life, she has no time for distractions—especially not from a guy like Cam. But when he starts paying attention to her for more than just notes, she finds herself caught in a slow-burn romance filled with tension, warmth, and undeniable chemistry.
The relationship between Cam and Lenni are beautifully developed, with their dynamic evolving beyond the typical jock-and-nerd trope. Cam’s persistence and patience make him a standout book boyfriend, while Lenni’s intelligence and independence add layers to her character. Kristen Vail does an excellent job of weaving themes of self-worth, trust, and overcoming past trauma into the story, making it emotionally compelling.
The writing is engaging, sharp, and immersive, keeping readers invested from start to finish. While the book follows some familiar romance tropes, including the opposites-attract and popular-guy-likes-shy-girl dynamic, the execution makes it feel fresh. A few moments of miscommunication might frustrate some readers, but they don’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the story.
With sizzling chemistry, heartfelt moments, and a deeply satisfying romance, Right The First Time is a must-read for fans of college sports love stories. Kristen Vail delivers a book that balances angst, passion, and emotional growth, making it perfect for readers who enjoy Elle Kennedy and Mariana Zapata — highly recommended for those who love swoon-worthy, character-driven romance.
🏈Opposites Attract
🔥He Falls First
🏈Nerd/Jock
🔥Hurt/Comfort
🏈Midsized FMC
🔥Mistaken identity
🏈First Love
🔥FMC with emotional scars
🏈Dual POV
🔥Who hurt you?
Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Kristen Vail’s Right The First Time is a captivating college sports romance that masterfully blends heart, humor, and emotional depth. The story follows Cam Forrester, a confident and charismatic football star, and a bookish heroine Lenni who prefers to stay unnoticed. Focused on her academic success and determined to escape the chaos of her family life, she has no time for distractions—especially not from a guy like Cam. But when he starts paying attention to her for more than just notes, she finds herself caught in a slow-burn romance filled with tension, warmth, and undeniable chemistry.
The relationship between Cam and Lenni are beautifully developed, with their dynamic evolving beyond the typical jock-and-nerd trope. Cam’s persistence and patience make him a standout book boyfriend, while Lenni’s intelligence and independence add layers to her character. Kristen Vail does an excellent job of weaving themes of self-worth, trust, and overcoming past trauma into the story, making it emotionally compelling.
The writing is engaging, sharp, and immersive, keeping readers invested from start to finish. While the book follows some familiar romance tropes, including the opposites-attract and popular-guy-likes-shy-girl dynamic, the execution makes it feel fresh. A few moments of miscommunication might frustrate some readers, but they don’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the story.
With sizzling chemistry, heartfelt moments, and a deeply satisfying romance, Right The First Time is a must-read for fans of college sports love stories. Kristen Vail delivers a book that balances angst, passion, and emotional growth, making it perfect for readers who enjoy Elle Kennedy and Mariana Zapata — highly recommended for those who love swoon-worthy, character-driven romance.
February 2, 2025
Kristen Vail’s debut novel, Right the First Time was a quick and easy 3.5⭐️ read.
The story follows star football player Cam and Lennie a quiet college journalist, who attend the same college.
The pair first meet on their college orientation day, when they stumble upon each other both trying to take some time out from it all. They form an instant connection and end up chatting for hours but after that night they don’t meet again until a few years later.
The way Lennie and Cam met, and the ease in which they were able to share some of themselves with each other was so cute, but I found it quite hard to believe that they don’t so much as bump into each other until a few years later. Then when they finally do, Lennie doesn’t even realise Cam is the boy she not only spent quite some time chatting with but pined over for quite a while too.
I really liked Cam’s character, he wasn’t portrayed as the typical playboy football player like in sports romances I’ve previously read, he showed he had such a good heart, was kind, considerate, supportive and very loyal to the people around him.
But I can’t say I felt the same way about Lennie, I really struggled to connect with her character, rather than communicate her issues with Cam she chose to make quite a few assumptions and came across quite immature in the ways she reacted to them.
I did end up feeling a bit sorry for Cam, he was the one that always seemed to back down and I think it should have been Lennie coming in with the big gesture at the end, especially when she realised she had been wrong in the way she’d reacted.
This book followed quite a few hard topics, with the family issues the pair both suffered, the trauma Lennie faced, as well as Cam’s self doubt caused by the high expectations placed upon him, all of which were covered so well.
I was so pleased by the end of this story that Cam and Lennie were able to work through the issues they both had together and learned to trust each other enough to get them to the HEA they both deserved.
The story follows star football player Cam and Lennie a quiet college journalist, who attend the same college.
The pair first meet on their college orientation day, when they stumble upon each other both trying to take some time out from it all. They form an instant connection and end up chatting for hours but after that night they don’t meet again until a few years later.
The way Lennie and Cam met, and the ease in which they were able to share some of themselves with each other was so cute, but I found it quite hard to believe that they don’t so much as bump into each other until a few years later. Then when they finally do, Lennie doesn’t even realise Cam is the boy she not only spent quite some time chatting with but pined over for quite a while too.
I really liked Cam’s character, he wasn’t portrayed as the typical playboy football player like in sports romances I’ve previously read, he showed he had such a good heart, was kind, considerate, supportive and very loyal to the people around him.
But I can’t say I felt the same way about Lennie, I really struggled to connect with her character, rather than communicate her issues with Cam she chose to make quite a few assumptions and came across quite immature in the ways she reacted to them.
I did end up feeling a bit sorry for Cam, he was the one that always seemed to back down and I think it should have been Lennie coming in with the big gesture at the end, especially when she realised she had been wrong in the way she’d reacted.
This book followed quite a few hard topics, with the family issues the pair both suffered, the trauma Lennie faced, as well as Cam’s self doubt caused by the high expectations placed upon him, all of which were covered so well.
I was so pleased by the end of this story that Cam and Lennie were able to work through the issues they both had together and learned to trust each other enough to get them to the HEA they both deserved.
January 21, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
What to Expect:
❤️ Opposites Attract
🏈 He Falls First
❤️ First Love
🏈 Jock x Nerd
❤️ Hurt/Comfort
🏈 Football Romance
❤️ Midsize FMC
🏈 Mistaken Identity
❤️ Angst
Right The First Time by Kristen Vail is a delightful college sports romance that delivers heart, humor, and just the right amount of emotional depth. The story introduces us to Cam Forrester, a confident, charming football star, and Lenni, a bookish heroine who’s far more focused on her studies than scoring with the campus heartthrob. Lenni is determined to keep her head down, avoid distractions, and escape the chaos of her family life until Cam starts showing interest in her for reasons beyond just borrowing notes.
Their romance unfolds as a slow burn, filled with tension, warmth, and crackling chemistry. What sets this book apart is how their relationship evolves past the typical jock-meets-nerd trope. Cam’s persistence and genuine patience make him a swoon-worthy book boyfriend, while Lenni’s intelligence and quiet strength add depth to her character.
Kristen Vail does a fantastic job weaving themes of self-worth, trust, and healing from past trauma into the story. The writing is sharp, engaging, and immersive, pulling readers into every heartfelt and witty moment.
While the book embraces some familiar romance tropes, opposites attract, popular-guy-likes-shy-girl, it executes them with a freshness that keeps things compelling. Yes, there are a few moments of miscommunication that might test your patience, but they’re minor blips in an otherwise captivating narrative.
Packed with angst, passion, and emotional growth, Right The First Time is a feel-good read that will have you rooting for Cam and Lenni from start to finish. Kristen Vail strikes the perfect balance between lighthearted romance and deeper, meaningful storytelling.
Thank you to Kristen Vail, the author, and The Author Agency team for the ARC opportunity.
What to Expect:
❤️ Opposites Attract
🏈 He Falls First
❤️ First Love
🏈 Jock x Nerd
❤️ Hurt/Comfort
🏈 Football Romance
❤️ Midsize FMC
🏈 Mistaken Identity
❤️ Angst
Right The First Time by Kristen Vail is a delightful college sports romance that delivers heart, humor, and just the right amount of emotional depth. The story introduces us to Cam Forrester, a confident, charming football star, and Lenni, a bookish heroine who’s far more focused on her studies than scoring with the campus heartthrob. Lenni is determined to keep her head down, avoid distractions, and escape the chaos of her family life until Cam starts showing interest in her for reasons beyond just borrowing notes.
Their romance unfolds as a slow burn, filled with tension, warmth, and crackling chemistry. What sets this book apart is how their relationship evolves past the typical jock-meets-nerd trope. Cam’s persistence and genuine patience make him a swoon-worthy book boyfriend, while Lenni’s intelligence and quiet strength add depth to her character.
Kristen Vail does a fantastic job weaving themes of self-worth, trust, and healing from past trauma into the story. The writing is sharp, engaging, and immersive, pulling readers into every heartfelt and witty moment.
While the book embraces some familiar romance tropes, opposites attract, popular-guy-likes-shy-girl, it executes them with a freshness that keeps things compelling. Yes, there are a few moments of miscommunication that might test your patience, but they’re minor blips in an otherwise captivating narrative.
Packed with angst, passion, and emotional growth, Right The First Time is a feel-good read that will have you rooting for Cam and Lenni from start to finish. Kristen Vail strikes the perfect balance between lighthearted romance and deeper, meaningful storytelling.
Thank you to Kristen Vail, the author, and The Author Agency team for the ARC opportunity.
January 31, 2025
💕ARC Review💕
Okay, this book had me grinning like a fool on public transit (and hiding my Kindle cover due to the cover artwork), so buckle up.
First and foremost, consider me Bella MF Swan, because the inferno-inducing ✍🏻descriptions ✍🏻of ✍🏻Cam's ✍🏻smouldering, ✍🏻unwavering ✍🏻gaze had me ready to risk it all through the one dimensional universe of my eReader. Our guy seems oddly emotionally mature for his age, but I can absolutely see his college age shine through with some of his communication mishaps from time to time. This aside, his surefire feelings for Lenni make him a secure king in my books despite his dumpster-fire of a home life. This man was team YEARNING from the get-go for our girl, protecting her in the shadows while also taking their relationship at Lenni's pace. ALSO, notable mention to Cam's strong hands, who absolutely rank as the third best MC in this book.
Lenni girl. Ooooof. I love her because two chapters in, I asked myself, "Is this fvcking play about us?". I swear to god, Kristen Vail could've written me as Lenni in 2013 with the Chainsmokers playing the in the background and the readers wouldn't have even blinked twice. Our girl is sifting through the literal dregs of emotions due to her traumatic high school past, making her question even the sweetest intentions of Cam, who genuinely liked her for the bookish girl she was. She is truly the underdog you will root for as she slowly figures her ishhhh out. She will get there, don't you worry!
Truly though, this is as much of a healing story as it is a romance story. It was giving TSITP energy in that our FMC is still figuring out who she is, who she wants to be, and coming to terms with the notion that sometimes what we want isn't always what we need. Getting to watch Lenni open up, unlearn assumptions of herself and others, and climb higher and higher rungs of self-fulfillment was such a treat.
Thank you Kristen Vail and The Author Agency for the ARC! 💕
Okay, this book had me grinning like a fool on public transit (and hiding my Kindle cover due to the cover artwork), so buckle up.
First and foremost, consider me Bella MF Swan, because the inferno-inducing ✍🏻descriptions ✍🏻of ✍🏻Cam's ✍🏻smouldering, ✍🏻unwavering ✍🏻gaze had me ready to risk it all through the one dimensional universe of my eReader. Our guy seems oddly emotionally mature for his age, but I can absolutely see his college age shine through with some of his communication mishaps from time to time. This aside, his surefire feelings for Lenni make him a secure king in my books despite his dumpster-fire of a home life. This man was team YEARNING from the get-go for our girl, protecting her in the shadows while also taking their relationship at Lenni's pace. ALSO, notable mention to Cam's strong hands, who absolutely rank as the third best MC in this book.
Lenni girl. Ooooof. I love her because two chapters in, I asked myself, "Is this fvcking play about us?". I swear to god, Kristen Vail could've written me as Lenni in 2013 with the Chainsmokers playing the in the background and the readers wouldn't have even blinked twice. Our girl is sifting through the literal dregs of emotions due to her traumatic high school past, making her question even the sweetest intentions of Cam, who genuinely liked her for the bookish girl she was. She is truly the underdog you will root for as she slowly figures her ishhhh out. She will get there, don't you worry!
Truly though, this is as much of a healing story as it is a romance story. It was giving TSITP energy in that our FMC is still figuring out who she is, who she wants to be, and coming to terms with the notion that sometimes what we want isn't always what we need. Getting to watch Lenni open up, unlearn assumptions of herself and others, and climb higher and higher rungs of self-fulfillment was such a treat.
Thank you Kristen Vail and The Author Agency for the ARC! 💕
February 3, 2025
If you love:
🏈 College sports romance
📖 Slow-burn with intense chemistry
💙 A patient, soft-hearted MMC who falls first
💔 Emotional depth and character growth
🔥 A romance that makes you feel every moment
Right The First Time is a heartfelt, slow-burn story filled with emotional depth, undeniable chemistry, and a swoon-worthy male lead that I adored.
Cam and Lenni first cross paths as freshmen, sharing a moment that sticks with them both, even though life keeps them apart for years. When their paths finally cross again, Lenni doesn’t realize that the quiet, steadfast Cam is the same guy she once talked to all night. As their connection deepens, Cam proves time and again that he’s willing to be patient and understanding, even when Lenni’s past makes it difficult for her to fully trust in what they’re building.
What sets this book apart is how beautifully their relationship develops. Cam is an absolute dream—kind, loyal, and emotionally mature in a way that makes him stand out from the usual college athlete trope. Lenni, on the other hand, is navigating the weight of her past and learning how to let someone in. Her journey felt so raw and real, and I loved seeing her grow in confidence and embrace the idea that she was worthy of love.
Beyond the romance, this book does an amazing job of tackling themes of trust, healing, and self-worth. Lenni’s struggles are portrayed with such authenticity, and Cam’s unwavering support for her made my heart melt. Plus, the side characters were just as compelling, adding warmth and humor to an already fantastic story. Right The First Time is a must-read. Kristen Vail has created a story that’s both deeply emotional and wonderfully romantic—one that will stay with me for a long time. Highly recommend!
🏈 College sports romance
📖 Slow-burn with intense chemistry
💙 A patient, soft-hearted MMC who falls first
💔 Emotional depth and character growth
🔥 A romance that makes you feel every moment
Right The First Time is a heartfelt, slow-burn story filled with emotional depth, undeniable chemistry, and a swoon-worthy male lead that I adored.
Cam and Lenni first cross paths as freshmen, sharing a moment that sticks with them both, even though life keeps them apart for years. When their paths finally cross again, Lenni doesn’t realize that the quiet, steadfast Cam is the same guy she once talked to all night. As their connection deepens, Cam proves time and again that he’s willing to be patient and understanding, even when Lenni’s past makes it difficult for her to fully trust in what they’re building.
What sets this book apart is how beautifully their relationship develops. Cam is an absolute dream—kind, loyal, and emotionally mature in a way that makes him stand out from the usual college athlete trope. Lenni, on the other hand, is navigating the weight of her past and learning how to let someone in. Her journey felt so raw and real, and I loved seeing her grow in confidence and embrace the idea that she was worthy of love.
Beyond the romance, this book does an amazing job of tackling themes of trust, healing, and self-worth. Lenni’s struggles are portrayed with such authenticity, and Cam’s unwavering support for her made my heart melt. Plus, the side characters were just as compelling, adding warmth and humor to an already fantastic story. Right The First Time is a must-read. Kristen Vail has created a story that’s both deeply emotional and wonderfully romantic—one that will stay with me for a long time. Highly recommend!
February 4, 2025
Title: Right The First Time (Shafer U Book 1)
Author: Kristen Vail
Hero/Heroine: Cam & Lenni
What to Expect: Second Chance, College Romance, Opposites Attract, Football Player MMC, Writer FMC, Mistaken Identity
tw/cw: mention of sexual assault, filming without consent, mention of alcoholism, death of a parent, mention of rehab, mention of infidelity,
Sometimes you just need to read an angsty college romance, and Right The First Time was exactly that. Cam and Lenni’s story had some great tropes - opposites attract, second chance, mistaken identity.
After a chance meeting their first year of college, Cam and Lenni are practically strangers until a seduction method gone awry brings them closer together. The second hand embarrassment (and anger at Reeve) I felt during this part of the story was next level, poor Lenni. She ended up getting hers though.
This story had a great mix of spice, sweetness and angst; Cam and Lenni’s relationship was far from straightforward, and they both had their issues to acknowledge. Lenni’s backstory was quite heartbreaking, and it was abundantly clear where her trust issues stemmed from. Cam, with his emotionally manipulative mother, wanted to live a life for himself, not based off other people’s expectations.
A great debut, I really enjoyed Cam and Lenni’s angst filled story. I’m now wondering if there’s a story there for Reeve and Jade…
Thank you to the author and @theauthor.agency for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨overall thoughts: a great debut romance, I enjoyed Cam and Lenni’s story
✨ 3rd act break up: yes
✨ heat level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Kristen Vail
Hero/Heroine: Cam & Lenni
What to Expect: Second Chance, College Romance, Opposites Attract, Football Player MMC, Writer FMC, Mistaken Identity
tw/cw: mention of sexual assault, filming without consent, mention of alcoholism, death of a parent, mention of rehab, mention of infidelity,
Sometimes you just need to read an angsty college romance, and Right The First Time was exactly that. Cam and Lenni’s story had some great tropes - opposites attract, second chance, mistaken identity.
After a chance meeting their first year of college, Cam and Lenni are practically strangers until a seduction method gone awry brings them closer together. The second hand embarrassment (and anger at Reeve) I felt during this part of the story was next level, poor Lenni. She ended up getting hers though.
This story had a great mix of spice, sweetness and angst; Cam and Lenni’s relationship was far from straightforward, and they both had their issues to acknowledge. Lenni’s backstory was quite heartbreaking, and it was abundantly clear where her trust issues stemmed from. Cam, with his emotionally manipulative mother, wanted to live a life for himself, not based off other people’s expectations.
A great debut, I really enjoyed Cam and Lenni’s angst filled story. I’m now wondering if there’s a story there for Reeve and Jade…
Thank you to the author and @theauthor.agency for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨overall thoughts: a great debut romance, I enjoyed Cam and Lenni’s story
✨ 3rd act break up: yes
✨ heat level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 23, 2025
This is Kristen's debut novel and I can't wait to read more from her and this series! It's a story about Lenni - straight A journalism student aspiring to be editor - and Cam - talented football jock who is also a smarty pants. They meet at a campus orientation but then become reacquainted a bit later, only it isn't quite the happy reunion at first. Cam is such a gentleman, though, and once he decides what he wants, he goes for it. He's ripped and loyal and you can't help but love him. Lenni has a tragic backstory, but I really love that it's so tightly woven into the book's plot in a way that she really has to face her demons. She's smart and powerful (she's a powerlifter!!!) and her sense of justice and doing the right thing is admirable.
One thing I really love about Kristen's writing is that she really gives the characters a 3 dimensional touch. What you see at first is not what you get in the end. Her portrayal of Cam's deeply flawed mother could easily put her in villain territory if it weren't for the thoughtful depth she's given, along with Cam and his BFF Reeve's relationship with her. (Don't even get me started on Reeve! Their bromance is adorable and I'm so looking forward to his book.) But I also really love the way Kristen writes about Lenni as a "mid size" heroine. A lot of books get this wrong. They'll mention curves and how much their MMCs love them. Kristen gets specific in a way other writers don't, and Lenni's experience with weight fluctuation, the way she dresses, her relationship with food really impressed me as being authentic and not afraid to say the silent part out loud. Especially as all of that can relate to the kind of trauma Lenni experienced. I would give the book 5 stars for that alone.
One thing I really love about Kristen's writing is that she really gives the characters a 3 dimensional touch. What you see at first is not what you get in the end. Her portrayal of Cam's deeply flawed mother could easily put her in villain territory if it weren't for the thoughtful depth she's given, along with Cam and his BFF Reeve's relationship with her. (Don't even get me started on Reeve! Their bromance is adorable and I'm so looking forward to his book.) But I also really love the way Kristen writes about Lenni as a "mid size" heroine. A lot of books get this wrong. They'll mention curves and how much their MMCs love them. Kristen gets specific in a way other writers don't, and Lenni's experience with weight fluctuation, the way she dresses, her relationship with food really impressed me as being authentic and not afraid to say the silent part out loud. Especially as all of that can relate to the kind of trauma Lenni experienced. I would give the book 5 stars for that alone.
January 23, 2025
✨E-Arc Review✨
4.5 stars
“Right the First Time” is the journey between Cam and Lenni; two people, complete opposites, trying to navigate their way through their insecurities and hurtful pasts to come out on the other side and embrace their trust and love for one another.
Cameron, (Cam) is the star football player for his collage team with possibilities of a future NFL career, and Lenore, (Lenni) is the shy nerdy introvert who’s just trying to do the best she can to make a life for her family. By chance, the two meet a few months before their freshman year and this is the catalyst for their story. Both have never forgotten how each other felt about the other, but neither really meet again until a couple of years later.
Once they find their way to one other, they are so lovely together. Cam is always so good to Lenni, as she is to him, but for Lennie, trust is very hard to come by due to her past, so this makes for a bit of a rocky start to their relationship.
Working their way through their differences and their pasts does at times create misunderstandings and hurt, but eventually, Cam and Lenni realize that their love is worth more than letting anything come between them.
I really liked this book and it had such a beautiful HEA.
I cannot wait to read the next one.
Why you will love this book:
🔥College football romance
🏈Opposites attract
🔥He falls first
🏈Nerd/jock
🔥Hurt/comfort
🏈Midsized FMC
🔥Mistaken identity
🏈First love
🔥FMC with emotional scars
🏈Dual POV
🔥Who hurt you
4.5 stars
“Right the First Time” is the journey between Cam and Lenni; two people, complete opposites, trying to navigate their way through their insecurities and hurtful pasts to come out on the other side and embrace their trust and love for one another.
Cameron, (Cam) is the star football player for his collage team with possibilities of a future NFL career, and Lenore, (Lenni) is the shy nerdy introvert who’s just trying to do the best she can to make a life for her family. By chance, the two meet a few months before their freshman year and this is the catalyst for their story. Both have never forgotten how each other felt about the other, but neither really meet again until a couple of years later.
Once they find their way to one other, they are so lovely together. Cam is always so good to Lenni, as she is to him, but for Lennie, trust is very hard to come by due to her past, so this makes for a bit of a rocky start to their relationship.
Working their way through their differences and their pasts does at times create misunderstandings and hurt, but eventually, Cam and Lenni realize that their love is worth more than letting anything come between them.
I really liked this book and it had such a beautiful HEA.
I cannot wait to read the next one.
Why you will love this book:
🔥College football romance
🏈Opposites attract
🔥He falls first
🏈Nerd/jock
🔥Hurt/comfort
🏈Midsized FMC
🔥Mistaken identity
🏈First love
🔥FMC with emotional scars
🏈Dual POV
🔥Who hurt you
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2025
Right the First Time is a delightful football romance that perfectly balances heartwarming moments with just the right amount of spice. The chemistry between the nerdy fmc Lenni, who’s focused on her future, and the cocky football star, Cam Forrester, is undeniable. Their relationship starts off with a slow burn, but Cam’s determination to show Lenni that he’s more than just a jock makes their romance feel fresh and real. The opposites attract trope is on full display here, with the two of them learning to navigate their differences, and their first-love dynamic is both sweet and swoon-worthy. The dual POVs really bring their emotional journeys to life, allowing readers to fully connect with both characters as they grow and fall for each other.
The spice in Right the First Time is just the right amount—enough to add tension without taking over the story. The writing is solid and engaging, with great pacing that keeps the story moving forward without feeling rushed. Character development is a highlight, especially with the Lenni, who learns to trust and open up after past heartbreak, and Cam, who proves he’s not the heartbreaker everyone assumes. My only criticism is that, at times, the Lenni’s internal struggles can feel a bit repetitive, which slows the pacing in certain moments. But overall, this book is a fun and heartfelt read that will leave you rooting for these two to figure it all out!
January 29, 2025
ARC Book Review
🏈Right the First Time💋
Book 1 in the Shafer U Series
By: @kristenvailbooks
Overall: 4/5
Overall plot: 4/5
Character development: 4/5
Pace: 4/5
World building: 4/5
Spice 🌶️: 2/5
Thank you Kristen for letting me read this book ahead of the release date!
This is the first time I’ve read Kristen’s books. What can I NOT SAY?!
Smart Jock ✔ Trauma written with care ✔ Nerd <3 Jock ✔ Cinnamon Roll MMC ✔ Feisty FMC ✔ Angst ✔
If I was Lenni, I would’ve fallen for Cameron so much earlier rather than fight it. Both Lenni and Cam have different things to overcome but ultimately, the one in common was trust. Trust that they both are willing to let each other in and that the other will see them and be there for them. Trust that they want to learn more about them, good or bad. Trust that they want them for them and not what they could represent on the surface.
The character development for Lenni was more drastic as the story progressed. As for Cam, it was more peeling each layer off to reveal what a heart of gold of a person he already was and 😍!
Overall, I’d recommend this book if you like to read a college football romance with elements of angst, some spice and characters with hearts of gold. 💋
Tropes:
💋 opposites attract
🏈he falls first
💋nerd/jock
🏈dual POV
💋angst
🏈hurt/comfort
💋first love
🏈mid size FMC
💋mistaken identity
💋Out January 30, 2025🏈
➡️Order Now!
➡️Add to Goodreads now!
🏈Right the First Time💋
Book 1 in the Shafer U Series
By: @kristenvailbooks
Overall: 4/5
Overall plot: 4/5
Character development: 4/5
Pace: 4/5
World building: 4/5
Spice 🌶️: 2/5
Thank you Kristen for letting me read this book ahead of the release date!
This is the first time I’ve read Kristen’s books. What can I NOT SAY?!
Smart Jock ✔ Trauma written with care ✔ Nerd <3 Jock ✔ Cinnamon Roll MMC ✔ Feisty FMC ✔ Angst ✔
If I was Lenni, I would’ve fallen for Cameron so much earlier rather than fight it. Both Lenni and Cam have different things to overcome but ultimately, the one in common was trust. Trust that they both are willing to let each other in and that the other will see them and be there for them. Trust that they want to learn more about them, good or bad. Trust that they want them for them and not what they could represent on the surface.
The character development for Lenni was more drastic as the story progressed. As for Cam, it was more peeling each layer off to reveal what a heart of gold of a person he already was and 😍!
Overall, I’d recommend this book if you like to read a college football romance with elements of angst, some spice and characters with hearts of gold. 💋
Tropes:
💋 opposites attract
🏈he falls first
💋nerd/jock
🏈dual POV
💋angst
🏈hurt/comfort
💋first love
🏈mid size FMC
💋mistaken identity
💋Out January 30, 2025🏈
➡️Order Now!
➡️Add to Goodreads now!
January 30, 2025
Oh my gosh !!! What a truly fantastic start to what I know will be an unforgettable new series . Do you love football/ college romances? Do you love opposites attract ( nerdy girl x popular jock ? Do you love he falls first and hard ? Do you love hurt / comfort and first loves ? Welll If you answered yes to any of the above . Stop what your done , run as fast as you can and download what was one of the most beautifully written and emotionally charged journeys I’ve read this year . To say that I was not prepared Cam and Lenni’s story would without a doubt be a huge understatement. The way both characters pulled me right in like a magnet , the way everything they went through just pulled on all my heartstrings to the point not only was I smiling and laughing but actually sobbing like a baby and yes even screaming outta pure frustration at times . What never wavered though was how completely in love I fell with both and how hard I cheered for their happily ever after. Right The First time is so much more than your typical feel good sports romance . There are moments that are heartbreaking and heartfelt, there’s love and passion and pain and tragedy. But it’s also about family and friendships, finding the strength within yourself to move forward, it has angst and humor and witty banter of course . Truth be told no words could possibly describe or do it enough justice. You simply need to experience all its perfection for yourself 💜💜💜💜💜💜
January 24, 2025
✍️ARC REVIEW🏈
🔥College Football Romance
🏈Opposites Attract
🔥He Falls First
🏈Nerd/Jock
🔥Hurt/Comfort
🏈Midsized FMC
🔥Mistaken identity
🏈First Love
🔥FMC with emotional scars
🏈Dual POV
🔥Who hurt you?
Lennie and Cam first meet Freshman year of college and they spend hours talking and just finding comfort in each other. Time passes and one day, Cam’s best friend takes notice of Lennie. They thrown back into each other’s path after Cam rescues Lennie from an embarrassing night. Cam just wants to show Lennie that he’s not out to hurt her but she’s got a lot of trauma from the past to overcome to let anyone past her defenses.
Y’all, this was stinking cute but it had some parts that were so heart-wrenching with some definitely had hard topics (check your trigger warnings). My heart went out to Lenni and Cam. Lennie definitely had a lot of hurt to overcome and there were times I was yelling “Girl! You are so stubborn!” But her family life and past made her that way. She deserved kindness, patience, and love. Cam was such a sweetie, the perfect person for Lennie, and I was rooting for him the whole time. I can’t imagine dealing with an overbearing parent and finding out your deceased parent was absolutely far from perfect. These two had a lot of hurt and trauma to overcome and they helped each other be the best versions of themselves.
4⭐️
🔥College Football Romance
🏈Opposites Attract
🔥He Falls First
🏈Nerd/Jock
🔥Hurt/Comfort
🏈Midsized FMC
🔥Mistaken identity
🏈First Love
🔥FMC with emotional scars
🏈Dual POV
🔥Who hurt you?
Lennie and Cam first meet Freshman year of college and they spend hours talking and just finding comfort in each other. Time passes and one day, Cam’s best friend takes notice of Lennie. They thrown back into each other’s path after Cam rescues Lennie from an embarrassing night. Cam just wants to show Lennie that he’s not out to hurt her but she’s got a lot of trauma from the past to overcome to let anyone past her defenses.
Y’all, this was stinking cute but it had some parts that were so heart-wrenching with some definitely had hard topics (check your trigger warnings). My heart went out to Lenni and Cam. Lennie definitely had a lot of hurt to overcome and there were times I was yelling “Girl! You are so stubborn!” But her family life and past made her that way. She deserved kindness, patience, and love. Cam was such a sweetie, the perfect person for Lennie, and I was rooting for him the whole time. I can’t imagine dealing with an overbearing parent and finding out your deceased parent was absolutely far from perfect. These two had a lot of hurt and trauma to overcome and they helped each other be the best versions of themselves.
4⭐️
January 31, 2025
🔥 Right the First Time by Kristen Vail is the college romance you NEED! 🏈📚💘
From sizzling tension to laugh-out-loud banter, this debut will have you swooning, giggling, and rooting for Cam & Lenni every step of the way!
💖 Why You’ll LOVE This Book:
🏈 Jock x Nerd Perfection – Cam is the star wide receiver, Lenni is the girl who just wants to survive college. Total opposites, total sparks!
🩷 He Falls First – And let me tell you, Cam is ALL IN from the beginning. His devotion? Chef’s kiss 💋
🏈 Mistaken Identity – She’s been searching for her mystery guy… and he’s been right in front of her the whole time!
🩷 Hurt/Comfort Feels – Two broken pasts, one undeniable connection. Healing together never looked so good.
🏈 Banter & Chemistry – Their flirty fights are GOLD, and the slow burn is WORTH IT! 🔥
🩷 Angst & All the Feels – You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll be begging for more!
Cam & Lenni’s love story is full of heart, humor, and some serious swoon-worthy moments. If you love first love magic, college sports romance, and opposites attract with ALL the tension, this one’s for you!
📖 Read it now & fall hard for Cam Forrester!
#RightTheFirstTime #KristenVail #CollegeRomance #JockXNerd #HeFallsFirst #FootballRomance #SlowBurn #MistakenIdentity #TBR #Bookstagram #RomanceReads
From sizzling tension to laugh-out-loud banter, this debut will have you swooning, giggling, and rooting for Cam & Lenni every step of the way!
💖 Why You’ll LOVE This Book:
🏈 Jock x Nerd Perfection – Cam is the star wide receiver, Lenni is the girl who just wants to survive college. Total opposites, total sparks!
🩷 He Falls First – And let me tell you, Cam is ALL IN from the beginning. His devotion? Chef’s kiss 💋
🏈 Mistaken Identity – She’s been searching for her mystery guy… and he’s been right in front of her the whole time!
🩷 Hurt/Comfort Feels – Two broken pasts, one undeniable connection. Healing together never looked so good.
🏈 Banter & Chemistry – Their flirty fights are GOLD, and the slow burn is WORTH IT! 🔥
🩷 Angst & All the Feels – You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll be begging for more!
Cam & Lenni’s love story is full of heart, humor, and some serious swoon-worthy moments. If you love first love magic, college sports romance, and opposites attract with ALL the tension, this one’s for you!
📖 Read it now & fall hard for Cam Forrester!
#RightTheFirstTime #KristenVail #CollegeRomance #JockXNerd #HeFallsFirst #FootballRomance #SlowBurn #MistakenIdentity #TBR #Bookstagram #RomanceReads
January 31, 2025
I FREAKING LOVED THIS.
This is one of those books that sucks you in the second you open it. There is so much true life that happens that it is nearly impossible to not connect with these characters.
Lenni and Cam are EVERYTHING.
There are so many heartfelt moments that make you feel like you know them personally. In life we all experience these things that we feel nobody can relate to but there are so many people who know exactly what you’re going through.
I feel like Cam is the perfect man for Lenni. They come back together after Lenni not knowing he was always the one who made her feel most like herself and he proved that she didn't have to be the girl she isn’t just to impress him. He knew that she was the girl he loved before he even knew it.
Lenni’s past tried to drag her down and almost made her lose it all but Cam was set on making sure that she understood what he knew and trusted him to be authentic with her.
In the end everything of course works out and they are everything I could have wanted and much much more!
I 10/10 would recommend this sports romance to any of my fellow book lovers!
College Football Romance
Opposites Attract
He Falls First
Nerd/Jock
Hurt/Comfort
Midsized FMC
Mistaken identity
First Love
FMC with emotional scars
Dual POV
Who hurt you?
This is one of those books that sucks you in the second you open it. There is so much true life that happens that it is nearly impossible to not connect with these characters.
Lenni and Cam are EVERYTHING.
There are so many heartfelt moments that make you feel like you know them personally. In life we all experience these things that we feel nobody can relate to but there are so many people who know exactly what you’re going through.
I feel like Cam is the perfect man for Lenni. They come back together after Lenni not knowing he was always the one who made her feel most like herself and he proved that she didn't have to be the girl she isn’t just to impress him. He knew that she was the girl he loved before he even knew it.
Lenni’s past tried to drag her down and almost made her lose it all but Cam was set on making sure that she understood what he knew and trusted him to be authentic with her.
In the end everything of course works out and they are everything I could have wanted and much much more!
I 10/10 would recommend this sports romance to any of my fellow book lovers!
College Football Romance
Opposites Attract
He Falls First
Nerd/Jock
Hurt/Comfort
Midsized FMC
Mistaken identity
First Love
FMC with emotional scars
Dual POV
Who hurt you?
February 1, 2025
There was so much I enjoyed with Lenni & Cam’s story. I felt for her as she struggled to distance herself from her past and juggle school & family. It’s a lot for anyone and naturally she’s finding it difficult on her own. It leads to lots of mistakes, poor assumptions and miscommunication.
Cam has his own troubles. Trying to balance school, family, others’ expectations, and his own wants. It’s a big part of growing older as we try to figure out who we are, what we want, and how to honor ourselves & those we love. It’s a struggle for him, but he is a stand up guy with a good heart and does the best he can to do the right thing.
For a first book, I’m really impressed. Vail does a good job of giving us characters with flaws and issues that feel realistic, with a good balance of sweetness, angst, and growth. These are not perfect people, they struggle but they try, and I appreciate that there’s a good resolution for both of them individually as well as a couple. I’m looking forward to seeing where the author takes us next. Reeve’s got lots going on and I need to know everything :)
(Please note that there are content warnings for this one that can be found on the author’s website – kristenvail.com)
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
Cam has his own troubles. Trying to balance school, family, others’ expectations, and his own wants. It’s a big part of growing older as we try to figure out who we are, what we want, and how to honor ourselves & those we love. It’s a struggle for him, but he is a stand up guy with a good heart and does the best he can to do the right thing.
For a first book, I’m really impressed. Vail does a good job of giving us characters with flaws and issues that feel realistic, with a good balance of sweetness, angst, and growth. These are not perfect people, they struggle but they try, and I appreciate that there’s a good resolution for both of them individually as well as a couple. I’m looking forward to seeing where the author takes us next. Reeve’s got lots going on and I need to know everything :)
(Please note that there are content warnings for this one that can be found on the author’s website – kristenvail.com)
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
February 3, 2025
🏈 College Football
💗Opposites Attract
🏈 Jock/Nerd
💗Open Door Scenes
🏈 Angst
💗Mistaken Identity
🏈Dual POV
💗Hurt/Comfort
🏈 FMC
💗Who Hurt You?
🏈Emotional Scars
Well, can I just first start by saying how impresses I am the this is a debut novel?! You would never know from the great writing to the pacing and layout of the plot.
Lenni is a school reporter who harbors some trauma from her high school past. She starts gaining new confidence with the recent attention of a football player named Reeve. She's wanting to throw caution to the wind when it comes to him but then enters his best friend Cameron. Cam comes across as just another typical jock with his good looks and broody vibes but little does Lenni know just how wrong she is about him. He is the sweet, sensitive, and intelligent. He is kind natured and absolutely falls first. Lenni does struggle with trust and confidence from her a past experience. Not only does the author take you on a journey of their blooming romance but also the healing journey with Lenni. I a really loved the banter between them ss well as their beautiful connection.
I found this book was a fantasically fun read that had plenty of heart and emotion. I found myself not wanting to put it down and looking forward to when I could pick it up again. I absolutely recommend this book!! The characters had such great layers even the side ones like Reeve. I am hoping he gets his own book!!
*Thank you so much to Kristen Vail and The Author Agency for the ARC
January 31, 2025
🏈“I don’t want to be anywhere but here,” he whispers. “With you.”📚
Once I read the tropes for this book, I knew I had to read and oh boy, it was everything I hoped it’d be and more.
Let’s start with Cam, our MMC who is so much more than his jock persona. He’s someone who is used to date, surround himself with, certain type of people and that’s where Lenni is confused as she’s the sweet, shy nerd - he’s the popular one, just burrowing notes right?. The twist about her mystery lover is persistent in her mind, so.. how can she know Cam is being honest and has been enamoured with her a long time ago? Prepare yourself for turns, intrigue, bit drama, angst, nostalgia & love, to entertain you (I know I had a great time reading this omg).
Lenni & Cam’s connection happens naturally and as a slow burn, the way the chemistry developed was delicious. The tension? Had me blushing. And the looove? Fantastic. Both had to work their trauma to heal and my beautiful Lenni, she deserved the world and I’m so happy Cam man aged to give her that and to erase any self doubt. So, their HEA is a hard earned one.
I can’t wait for the upcoming books in the Shafer U Series.
Once I read the tropes for this book, I knew I had to read and oh boy, it was everything I hoped it’d be and more.
Let’s start with Cam, our MMC who is so much more than his jock persona. He’s someone who is used to date, surround himself with, certain type of people and that’s where Lenni is confused as she’s the sweet, shy nerd - he’s the popular one, just burrowing notes right?. The twist about her mystery lover is persistent in her mind, so.. how can she know Cam is being honest and has been enamoured with her a long time ago? Prepare yourself for turns, intrigue, bit drama, angst, nostalgia & love, to entertain you (I know I had a great time reading this omg).
Lenni & Cam’s connection happens naturally and as a slow burn, the way the chemistry developed was delicious. The tension? Had me blushing. And the looove? Fantastic. Both had to work their trauma to heal and my beautiful Lenni, she deserved the world and I’m so happy Cam man aged to give her that and to erase any self doubt. So, their HEA is a hard earned one.
I can’t wait for the upcoming books in the Shafer U Series.
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