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Colburn Brothers #1
He Falls First
No one is going to convince her to fall in love again...
Ryder Colburn has his hands full running the family business and caring for the ailing father who’s a virtual stranger from the cold, heavy-handed man he used to be. He’s got zero free time for hobbies or women. Or so he thinks until one walks into his life… and the path of an oncoming car.
Ryder doesn’t mind playing the hero for the skittish, scarred chef Penny. Maybe it’s the secrets in her eyes or the scar on her chin. Whatever the reason, he’s compelled to get closer.
Penny’s learned her lesson and now she’s paying the price. That’s why she’s sharing a dilapidated house in a tiny California town with her feisty grandmother and tween brother living off the leftovers from her catering job. It’s a far cry from her dream life. But who needs dreams… or love… or sex when there’s amateur plumbing projects to tackle and breakfast casseroles to bake?
One thing’s for sure, she’s never falling in love again. Not even with the sexy, snarky contractor who keeps testing the walls she’s built.
Ryder Colburn has his hands full running the family business and caring for the ailing father who’s a virtual stranger from the cold, heavy-handed man he used to be. He’s got zero free time for hobbies or women. Or so he thinks until one walks into his life… and the path of an oncoming car.
Ryder doesn’t mind playing the hero for the skittish, scarred chef Penny. Maybe it’s the secrets in her eyes or the scar on her chin. Whatever the reason, he’s compelled to get closer.
Penny’s learned her lesson and now she’s paying the price. That’s why she’s sharing a dilapidated house in a tiny California town with her feisty grandmother and tween brother living off the leftovers from her catering job. It’s a far cry from her dream life. But who needs dreams… or love… or sex when there’s amateur plumbing projects to tackle and breakfast casseroles to bake?
One thing’s for sure, she’s never falling in love again. Not even with the sexy, snarky contractor who keeps testing the walls she’s built.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 5, 2025
2016 people are currently reading
9958 people want to read
About the author
Jill Shalvis
386 books13.8k followersJill Shalvis is a NYT, USA Today, and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of small-town romance and romcoms, known for big feels, found family, and plenty of shenanigans.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,034 reviews
August 27, 2025
✩ 3.45 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Small Town
➼ Forced Proximity
➼ He Falls First
➼ Grumpy x Sunshine
➼ Found Family
➼ Healing from Past Hurts/Abuse
➼ Grief & Loss
➼ Dual Narration
➼ Dual First Person POV
This honestly started out a bit slow for me, but it had great character growth and development. Both MC’s had been mistreated by people in their pasts and both took on the caretaker role for their loved ones in their present. The FMC had recently left a toxic relationship. It’s implied that it was abusive, but the extent of the abuse isn’t fully detailed in the story. The MMC on the other hand grew up with an emotionally abusive father and was grieving the death of his best friend (a death he felt responsible for). His father experienced a drastic 180 personality change after suffering from a stroke. This was a very interesting dynamic to read about since the MMC had so many unresolved feelings towards his father but no longer had anywhere to direct them since his father was essentially a different person following the stroke.
At first, the MC’s seemed like opposites, but their needs and desires were actually so similar. I always love reading about two caretakers taking care of each other. All the better if they have both been hurt and are healing from things in their pasts. These were two people who struggle to ask for help and try to do everything on their own, but both wanted to be there for each other. Such a beautiful dynamic that I really resonate with as an oldest child with caretaker tendencies myself.
I’d recommend this one to anyone who prefers romances with a little more depth. If you’re like me and find it a little slow at the beginning, keep going! It definitely picks up in the second half. I really loved his family dynamic, so I would definitely read about the brothers!
Thank you to the author and Hambright PR for the ALC in exchange for an honest review. 💖
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: That title and the average rating have my interest peaked and my expectations high! Hope this one delivers! 🤞🏻
≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫
Connect with me on Instagram
What to Expect:
➼ Small Town
➼ Forced Proximity
➼ He Falls First
➼ Grumpy x Sunshine
➼ Found Family
➼ Healing from Past Hurts/Abuse
➼ Grief & Loss
➼ Dual Narration
➼ Dual First Person POV
This honestly started out a bit slow for me, but it had great character growth and development. Both MC’s had been mistreated by people in their pasts and both took on the caretaker role for their loved ones in their present. The FMC had recently left a toxic relationship. It’s implied that it was abusive, but the extent of the abuse isn’t fully detailed in the story. The MMC on the other hand grew up with an emotionally abusive father and was grieving the death of his best friend (a death he felt responsible for). His father experienced a drastic 180 personality change after suffering from a stroke. This was a very interesting dynamic to read about since the MMC had so many unresolved feelings towards his father but no longer had anywhere to direct them since his father was essentially a different person following the stroke.
At first, the MC’s seemed like opposites, but their needs and desires were actually so similar. I always love reading about two caretakers taking care of each other. All the better if they have both been hurt and are healing from things in their pasts. These were two people who struggle to ask for help and try to do everything on their own, but both wanted to be there for each other. Such a beautiful dynamic that I really resonate with as an oldest child with caretaker tendencies myself.
I’d recommend this one to anyone who prefers romances with a little more depth. If you’re like me and find it a little slow at the beginning, keep going! It definitely picks up in the second half. I really loved his family dynamic, so I would definitely read about the brothers!
Thank you to the author and Hambright PR for the ALC in exchange for an honest review. 💖
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: That title and the average rating have my interest peaked and my expectations high! Hope this one delivers! 🤞🏻
≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫
Connect with me on Instagram
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September 15, 2025
He Falls First is book one in the Colburn Brothers series by Jill Shalvis. If I haven’t read a Jill Shalvis book in awhile, I forget just how much I adore her writing. The way she makes me fall so in love with her characters. Which is exactly what happened with this one. Not only do I adore the two main characters, but their families as well. And, in the heroine’s case, the family bird, which made me laugh out loud! That was one smart bird!
Penny Rose is twenty seven years old and has recently returned home to her grandmother’s home in Star Falls, California. Her twelve year old brother also lives there and Penny finds herself trying her best to pay the bills and raise her brother. Penny is an amazing chef. Her dream is to own her own cafe someday but for now, she needs an income. So she is working for Hungry Bee Catering, cooking and delivering meals to businesses.
Penny returned home to Star Falls with a promise to herself. One she is reminded of each and every day when she looks in the mirror and sees the scar on her chin, one that required stitches. She is done with men. She will never give her heart away again.
Ryder Colburn is thirty two years old and is the oldest of the four Colburn siblings. He is also the CEO of his own building restoration business. Not only is he in charge of over one hundred employees and multiple ongoing projects, he is an amazing uncle to three year old twins. He is also currently caretaker to his father, a man who made their childhood a nightmare. But, who is now a non-verbal stranger who smiles constantly and pats him on the head. To say Ryder has a lot on his plate is an understatement. There is no room for more. That is, until he rescues a beautiful caterer from getting run over in front of his business.
I just want to say here that Ryder and Penny were so adorable together. The banter was heart warming. They both had their own issues but somehow together, they just worked. Ryder respected Penny’s wishes every step of the say, knowing that in the end, somehow, he had to win this woman’s heart and trust. Because after every encounter, he became more and more sure that he needs her in his life.
“Something deep inside me shifted into place, almost like I was a puzzle, one that had been missing a key piece for a very long time. And, that piece was him.”
I loved this book from the first page to the last. I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to be over. As I said, I loved their families so much and now can’t wait for the next book, Free Falling, which will be Ryder’s brother, Caleb’s story.
Penny Rose is twenty seven years old and has recently returned home to her grandmother’s home in Star Falls, California. Her twelve year old brother also lives there and Penny finds herself trying her best to pay the bills and raise her brother. Penny is an amazing chef. Her dream is to own her own cafe someday but for now, she needs an income. So she is working for Hungry Bee Catering, cooking and delivering meals to businesses.
Penny returned home to Star Falls with a promise to herself. One she is reminded of each and every day when she looks in the mirror and sees the scar on her chin, one that required stitches. She is done with men. She will never give her heart away again.
Ryder Colburn is thirty two years old and is the oldest of the four Colburn siblings. He is also the CEO of his own building restoration business. Not only is he in charge of over one hundred employees and multiple ongoing projects, he is an amazing uncle to three year old twins. He is also currently caretaker to his father, a man who made their childhood a nightmare. But, who is now a non-verbal stranger who smiles constantly and pats him on the head. To say Ryder has a lot on his plate is an understatement. There is no room for more. That is, until he rescues a beautiful caterer from getting run over in front of his business.
I just want to say here that Ryder and Penny were so adorable together. The banter was heart warming. They both had their own issues but somehow together, they just worked. Ryder respected Penny’s wishes every step of the say, knowing that in the end, somehow, he had to win this woman’s heart and trust. Because after every encounter, he became more and more sure that he needs her in his life.
“Something deep inside me shifted into place, almost like I was a puzzle, one that had been missing a key piece for a very long time. And, that piece was him.”
I loved this book from the first page to the last. I couldn’t put it down and didn’t want it to be over. As I said, I loved their families so much and now can’t wait for the next book, Free Falling, which will be Ryder’s brother, Caleb’s story.
August 7, 2025
4 Stars
One Liner: Establishes the series
Ryder Colburn is busy running the family businesses and caring for his ailing father. But a chance encounter with Penny compels him to help her and get to know her more.
Penny has paid the price and is living in a dilapidated house with her grandmother and tween brother, trying to survive on the catering job. She has no time for anything, definitely not love.
But maybe life has other plans!
The story comes in Penny and Ryder’s first-person POVs.
My Thoughts:
This is my first book by the author, and I’ll be happy to read the other books in the series (fingers crossed the publisher will make them available as Read Now).
The plot is pretty thin as the focus is on building the foundation for the series and establishing the main characters (the Colburn brothers and sister). I hope the sister also gets her book.
That said, the characters are well-developed, layered, and realistic. They have their flaws, but they are good people. They have been through enough trauma and are doing their best to be there for their loved ones.
As the title suggests, the MMC falls first, and he is pretty open about it. The FMC calls herself a hot mess (more than a few times) and is willing to heal (always a good sign).
The characters know their flaws and insecurities, so they have meaningful conversations even when there’s a sort of breakup. They talk about things and communicate, making it easy to root for them to be together.
The toddlers (Abi and Alex) are little tornadoes or wolf cubs (as their mum calls them). Needless to say, the kiddos brighten up the book each time they appear on the page.
A few plot threads have been left open and will presumably be resolved in the later books. I’m curious to know where they’ll lead.
There’s quite liberal open-door spice (3+) and a generous dose of F-bombs (alpha brothers and all that, I suppose). The banter is pretty good, though. The book has many funny moments despite having a sense of heaviness (due to dark themes like parental abuse, childhood trauma, domestic violence, death, illness, etc.).
We don’t know about the FMC’s mom, though her grandma and half-brother are sweet. Still, I wish we had a little more backstory about her family. It would have enhanced the plot.
To summarize, He Falls First is a heartwarming read about finding love, family support, and being there for one another.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #HeFallsFirst
One Liner: Establishes the series
Ryder Colburn is busy running the family businesses and caring for his ailing father. But a chance encounter with Penny compels him to help her and get to know her more.
Penny has paid the price and is living in a dilapidated house with her grandmother and tween brother, trying to survive on the catering job. She has no time for anything, definitely not love.
But maybe life has other plans!
The story comes in Penny and Ryder’s first-person POVs.
My Thoughts:
This is my first book by the author, and I’ll be happy to read the other books in the series (fingers crossed the publisher will make them available as Read Now).
The plot is pretty thin as the focus is on building the foundation for the series and establishing the main characters (the Colburn brothers and sister). I hope the sister also gets her book.
That said, the characters are well-developed, layered, and realistic. They have their flaws, but they are good people. They have been through enough trauma and are doing their best to be there for their loved ones.
As the title suggests, the MMC falls first, and he is pretty open about it. The FMC calls herself a hot mess (more than a few times) and is willing to heal (always a good sign).
The characters know their flaws and insecurities, so they have meaningful conversations even when there’s a sort of breakup. They talk about things and communicate, making it easy to root for them to be together.
The toddlers (Abi and Alex) are little tornadoes or wolf cubs (as their mum calls them). Needless to say, the kiddos brighten up the book each time they appear on the page.
A few plot threads have been left open and will presumably be resolved in the later books. I’m curious to know where they’ll lead.
There’s quite liberal open-door spice (3+) and a generous dose of F-bombs (alpha brothers and all that, I suppose). The banter is pretty good, though. The book has many funny moments despite having a sense of heaviness (due to dark themes like parental abuse, childhood trauma, domestic violence, death, illness, etc.).
We don’t know about the FMC’s mom, though her grandma and half-brother are sweet. Still, I wish we had a little more backstory about her family. It would have enhanced the plot.
To summarize, He Falls First is a heartwarming read about finding love, family support, and being there for one another.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #HeFallsFirst
August 5, 2025
the setup…
Penny Rose is a chef working for the Hungry Bee caterers and recently returned home to Star Falls, California from Seattle. She left a bad breakup behind to come help her grandmother raise her twelve-year old brother Wyatt. She’s caught the eye of Ryder Colburn, head of Colburn Restorations who’s also one of her clients (and the brother of her cranky boss). He’s the eldest of the three brothers and a serious sort with no time for romance. Though she’s sworn off men, Ryder can’t get Penny out of his head and he not only falls first but kinda hard.
the heart of the story…
Truth be told both Penny and Ryder had a strong attraction for each other but she was the harder sell. She’s smart, quick witted and talented but her confidence in her instincts are shaken because she never saw the last monster coming. I loved how Ryder took his time, letting her set the pace…or not. Like I said, he fell hard.
the narration…
Lila Winters & Sebastian York were ideal as Penny and Ryder. The banter came across so naturally…light and airy, but serious when the story demanded. I was in audio heaven.
the bottom line…
My excited anticipation about this story was well rewarded! It has Shalvis’ signature style with witty banter and well rounded characters, main and secondary. The romance was mature and smart. The easy relationship between the Colburn brothers was another high note as their repartee was a riot. This is a wonderful start to the series. And, with not one but two satisfying epilogues? Perfection. 4.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to the author and Hambright PR for my complimentary copies. All opinions are my own.)
Penny Rose is a chef working for the Hungry Bee caterers and recently returned home to Star Falls, California from Seattle. She left a bad breakup behind to come help her grandmother raise her twelve-year old brother Wyatt. She’s caught the eye of Ryder Colburn, head of Colburn Restorations who’s also one of her clients (and the brother of her cranky boss). He’s the eldest of the three brothers and a serious sort with no time for romance. Though she’s sworn off men, Ryder can’t get Penny out of his head and he not only falls first but kinda hard.
the heart of the story…
Truth be told both Penny and Ryder had a strong attraction for each other but she was the harder sell. She’s smart, quick witted and talented but her confidence in her instincts are shaken because she never saw the last monster coming. I loved how Ryder took his time, letting her set the pace…or not. Like I said, he fell hard.
the narration…
Lila Winters & Sebastian York were ideal as Penny and Ryder. The banter came across so naturally…light and airy, but serious when the story demanded. I was in audio heaven.
the bottom line…
My excited anticipation about this story was well rewarded! It has Shalvis’ signature style with witty banter and well rounded characters, main and secondary. The romance was mature and smart. The easy relationship between the Colburn brothers was another high note as their repartee was a riot. This is a wonderful start to the series. And, with not one but two satisfying epilogues? Perfection. 4.5 stars
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to the author and Hambright PR for my complimentary copies. All opinions are my own.)
July 8, 2025
2.5⭐️
I went into He Falls First, expecting a swoony, emotionally layered romance... something Jill Shalvis usually delivers with charm and heart. Unfortunately, this one didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
The premise is promising: Ryder, a gruff contractor juggling family responsibilities, meets Penny, a guarded chef with a complicated past. Sparks are supposed to fly, emotional walls are meant to crumble, and love should blossom in a quaint small town setting. But despite that setup, the story felt like it never quite got off the ground.
There’s a lot of potential in both Ryder and Penny’s backstories, but somehow, their chemistry never clicked for me. I struggled to connect with them... individually and as a couple.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🎶"Better Man" – Leon Bridges
🎶"Ghostin’" – Ariana Grande
I went into He Falls First, expecting a swoony, emotionally layered romance... something Jill Shalvis usually delivers with charm and heart. Unfortunately, this one didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
The premise is promising: Ryder, a gruff contractor juggling family responsibilities, meets Penny, a guarded chef with a complicated past. Sparks are supposed to fly, emotional walls are meant to crumble, and love should blossom in a quaint small town setting. But despite that setup, the story felt like it never quite got off the ground.
There’s a lot of potential in both Ryder and Penny’s backstories, but somehow, their chemistry never clicked for me. I struggled to connect with them... individually and as a couple.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🎶"Better Man" – Leon Bridges
🎶"Ghostin’" – Ariana Grande
August 16, 2025
* 3.75⭐️2🌶️
* He Falls First was such a heartwarming small-town romance where a protective CEO, Ryder Colburn, falls hard and fast for a guarded caterer, Penny Rose, who is hesitant to love again after a traumatic past,.
* Read if you like: starting over again, he falls first (lol), MCs as caretakers, small town, slow burn, found family, cute pet parrot, meddling grandmother, washing machine 😉, such a patient-swoon worthy MMC
* He Falls First was such a heartwarming small-town romance where a protective CEO, Ryder Colburn, falls hard and fast for a guarded caterer, Penny Rose, who is hesitant to love again after a traumatic past,.
* Read if you like: starting over again, he falls first (lol), MCs as caretakers, small town, slow burn, found family, cute pet parrot, meddling grandmother, washing machine 😉, such a patient-swoon worthy MMC
September 1, 2025
I am head over heals in love with He Falls First. Miss Shalvis brings so much sash into her banter. I love the banter. I love Ryder, that sexy devil.
The plot is easy and not too heavy. Very easy to follow and very entertaining.
4 stars
The plot is easy and not too heavy. Very easy to follow and very entertaining.
4 stars
August 16, 2025
He Falls First (Colburn Brothers #1) by Jill Shalvis
Book Blurb: No one is going to convince her to fall in love again...
Ryder Colburn has his hands full running the family business and caring for the ailing father who’s a virtual stranger from the cold, heavy-handed man he used to be. He’s got zero free time for hobbies or women. Or so he thinks until one walks into his life… and the path of an oncoming car.
Book Rating: ****
Audio Rating: ****
Feels: Heartstrings, Warmth, Adored, Sweetness
Style: Romance, Contemporary Romance, He Falls First, Audiobook, Small Town Romance
First published August 5, 2025 : 9 hours 51 minutes Audio books
Always be prepared for some tears and your heartstrings to be pulled when you read a book by Jill Shalvis. Take two broken people , a bunch of broken found family and put them all together … and watch her work her magic in this book. So heartwarming watching Penny (aka Wonderwoman ) and Ryder come together and watch him fall first and fall hard. Sooo many cute , warm and sweet moments ensure. I love his pet name for her, Wonderwoman, and that he makes her feel amazing. I also love all the crazy amazing side characters. Can’t wait to see what happens with the rest of the brothers !!!
Audio Review: Lila Winters(Narrator) Sebastian York (Narrator) : Loved this dual narration style. The flow between both narrators was flawless and seamless. I always knew which character in the book was speaking and always felt immersed in the story. I know this author always gets me in the feels and gets me tearing up and these narrators were able to bring her words to life with such relish that I indeed got tearful (thanks ...) I typically enjoy my audiobooks at 1.7 to 2.0 and this audio book was perfect for me at that speed. Tone and inflection were easy to follow and I was able to understand all portions of the book and follow along easily. Really enjoyed this as an audiobook and these narrators.
This book has:
He falls first (go figure)
Forced Proximity
Small Town with a side of sass (so fun)
Grumpy X Sunshine
Hot Contractor x Cute Cook
Thanks you to Jill Shalvis and Hambright PR for the gifted ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Book Blurb: No one is going to convince her to fall in love again...
Ryder Colburn has his hands full running the family business and caring for the ailing father who’s a virtual stranger from the cold, heavy-handed man he used to be. He’s got zero free time for hobbies or women. Or so he thinks until one walks into his life… and the path of an oncoming car.
Book Rating: ****
Audio Rating: ****
Feels: Heartstrings, Warmth, Adored, Sweetness
Style: Romance, Contemporary Romance, He Falls First, Audiobook, Small Town Romance
First published August 5, 2025 : 9 hours 51 minutes Audio books
Always be prepared for some tears and your heartstrings to be pulled when you read a book by Jill Shalvis. Take two broken people , a bunch of broken found family and put them all together … and watch her work her magic in this book. So heartwarming watching Penny (aka Wonderwoman ) and Ryder come together and watch him fall first and fall hard. Sooo many cute , warm and sweet moments ensure. I love his pet name for her, Wonderwoman, and that he makes her feel amazing. I also love all the crazy amazing side characters. Can’t wait to see what happens with the rest of the brothers !!!
Audio Review: Lila Winters(Narrator) Sebastian York (Narrator) : Loved this dual narration style. The flow between both narrators was flawless and seamless. I always knew which character in the book was speaking and always felt immersed in the story. I know this author always gets me in the feels and gets me tearing up and these narrators were able to bring her words to life with such relish that I indeed got tearful (thanks ...) I typically enjoy my audiobooks at 1.7 to 2.0 and this audio book was perfect for me at that speed. Tone and inflection were easy to follow and I was able to understand all portions of the book and follow along easily. Really enjoyed this as an audiobook and these narrators.
This book has:
He falls first (go figure)
Forced Proximity
Small Town with a side of sass (so fun)
Grumpy X Sunshine
Hot Contractor x Cute Cook
Thanks you to Jill Shalvis and Hambright PR for the gifted ALC in exchange for my honest review.
July 29, 2025
I just knew I was going to fall in love with this story! Both the MC’s have faced their own fair share of trauma, but despite that the MMC is so patient, caring, and just utterly perfect especially while the FMC sorts through her emotions.
There’s something about a story where he falls first that’s so swoony and this did not disappoint.
The family dynamic / friendships were thoughtfully written. I truly had a great time reading this. This is my first book from this author, but will for sure be on the lookout for others from her!
Thank you so much to Hambright for the ARC! I’m so happy to have this on my shelf.
There’s something about a story where he falls first that’s so swoony and this did not disappoint.
The family dynamic / friendships were thoughtfully written. I truly had a great time reading this. This is my first book from this author, but will for sure be on the lookout for others from her!
Thank you so much to Hambright for the ARC! I’m so happy to have this on my shelf.
August 5, 2025
Synopsis:
Penny & Ryder have troubled pasts that have left them both scarred and emotionally unavailable. Will the legend of Stars Falls, help them break through each other's barriers and start something new? Or will it be the meddling of nosy siblings and a "I'm only trying to help" grandmother? Guess you'll have to read and find out 😉
Reminded me of ...
Lucy Scores Knockemout Series & Bo from Out On A Limb.
Tropes:
He falls first
Found family
Small Town Romance
Forced Proximity
Review:
This was cute! It always makes me happy to read about a healthy couple who respect each other's boundaries. Penny & Ryder do a fantastic job modeling productive communication through difficult conversations and conflict. I couldn't help but root for them! I also loved the emphasis on family and the bonds between the siblings. There's a lot of love between these pages.
Penny & Ryder have troubled pasts that have left them both scarred and emotionally unavailable. Will the legend of Stars Falls, help them break through each other's barriers and start something new? Or will it be the meddling of nosy siblings and a "I'm only trying to help" grandmother? Guess you'll have to read and find out 😉
Reminded me of ...
Lucy Scores Knockemout Series & Bo from Out On A Limb.
Tropes:
He falls first
Found family
Small Town Romance
Forced Proximity
Review:
This was cute! It always makes me happy to read about a healthy couple who respect each other's boundaries. Penny & Ryder do a fantastic job modeling productive communication through difficult conversations and conflict. I couldn't help but root for them! I also loved the emphasis on family and the bonds between the siblings. There's a lot of love between these pages.
August 4, 2025
The story is set in a tiny town in California. From the start I loved Penny, her feisty grandmother and little brother. Penny has left an abusive relationship and come home to help her grandmother. She’s employed as a caterer now. Although less glamorous than her chef position, it’s functional.
Ryder is the oldest Colburn and has some baggage thanks to his abusive father. I couldn’t help but have a soft spot for him and his brothers and their sister. Their father has recently been kicked out of his latest retirement home and has since suffered a stroke that has changed the once violent man into a docile, simple man. Unable to care for himself, the brothers agree to take him in. Ryder has him first and employs Penny’s grandmother to care for him during the day. This is how he bumps into Penny.
I loved their cute meet and the instant chemistry. One quickly denied because the two are relationship shy. So they attempt friendship, and I loved watching the slow build, and almost kisses unfold. The story was delightfully paced as Shalvis introduced characters and allowed for meddling as chemistry gave way to feelings and heat.
He Falls First tackled some big subjects while highlighting loss and wrapped it into a swoon-worthy romance, the power of family and community. I cannot wait for the next siblings story.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Ryder is the oldest Colburn and has some baggage thanks to his abusive father. I couldn’t help but have a soft spot for him and his brothers and their sister. Their father has recently been kicked out of his latest retirement home and has since suffered a stroke that has changed the once violent man into a docile, simple man. Unable to care for himself, the brothers agree to take him in. Ryder has him first and employs Penny’s grandmother to care for him during the day. This is how he bumps into Penny.
I loved their cute meet and the instant chemistry. One quickly denied because the two are relationship shy. So they attempt friendship, and I loved watching the slow build, and almost kisses unfold. The story was delightfully paced as Shalvis introduced characters and allowed for meddling as chemistry gave way to feelings and heat.
He Falls First tackled some big subjects while highlighting loss and wrapped it into a swoon-worthy romance, the power of family and community. I cannot wait for the next siblings story.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
August 18, 2025
"Are you okay?" is a question that is asked on just about every page of this book and by or to every character in it. It made me want to make up tee-shirts: NO! I'M NOT OKAY! and this book wasn't either. Ryder and Penny both had tough childhoods and adult trauma. But the human species is sexual and somehow these two found themselves together, even when neither particularly wanted the other. Are they going to get their HEA? Of course they are. But they made me suffer big time before they did.
My thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
My thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
July 17, 2025
"I don't know what to say."
"Say yes."
I stared at him, knowing I wore a stupid, goofy smile. "And what exactly would I be saying yes to?"
His smile matched mine. "Only everything."
Guys! Before I start gushing about how incredibly addictive this book is, I have something important to announce... *clears throat* I'm finally, FINALLY out of the two-month reading slump all thanks to Ryder and Penny in He Falls First!!!!!! During the past several weeks, none of my current reads, umm...all 10+ of them, intrigued me enough to continue after 20% of each story, and I was really devastated for fear that I might either lose interest in romance or worse yet, anything bookish. Hence, color me shocked when I simply couldn't put this book down when I started devouring it last night!
"When life gives you lemons," Vi said, "grab the salt and the tequila."
Jill Shalvis was a relatively new author to me as this was my first book by her, but I was already HOOKED. Not just her flawless writing, but the entire world building, character development, and in-depth plot design. Needless to say, there was something exceptional in her storytelling and I found myself completely (and helplessly) immersed in this wonderfully dreamy world she built. Taking place in Star Falls, a small town in California, Ryder, the CEO of a generational family business of Colburn Restorations, slowly made his way into Penny's, the talented chef who served for Ryder's company's, heart, unbeknownst to both of them at first.
"...I wanted to take away your pain. Only, when I wasn't looking, you took away mine."
After being physically and emotionally abused, Penny lost the last ounce of her confidence and happy-go-lucky personality. She no longer believed in love, life, and above all, herself. Similarly, Ryder hadn't been himself for two years after a tragic event he couldn't stop blaming himself for. Both of them didn't think they deserved anything good or blissful coming their way, not even when "the Legend" happened.
"Afraid?"
I thought about it and was shocked to find the answer. Vulnerable, yes. Nervous, yes. Afraid? "No. You?"
"Petrified." He gave a crooked smile. "Be gentle."
Just when the story couldn't sound more depressing and sadder, I caught a glimpse of light and a little spark whenever Ryder and Penny were together. They were constantly communicating, being extremely honest with each other, as well as respecting the time and space they needed for this fragile feeling to take root and gradually blossom. In my opinion, this book was by far the best-paced slow-burn romance I'd ever read. There was just the right amount of sweetness, bitterness, and spiciness in their love story and I absolutely savored every single taste of it.
"You never gave up or left me."
"Never," I said.
Caleb stopped messing with his hair and laid unusually solemn eyes on her (Kiera, the youngest sister in the Colburn Family). "Never ever. Even if now I'm going to have a full head of gray hair before I turn thirty and it'll be all your fault."
What's more, finishing this book was like being embraced by not only Ryder and Penny, but their entire families. It was the warmest group hug I could imagine and it left my heart feeling full of love, sense of belonging, and so much hope. Oh, how I wish I could start a new life in Star Falls, petting the most adorable (and hilarious) Pika-Boo the Parrot, and hopefully bump into my soulmate there!
"I'm always just me."
Lastly, I couldn't recommend He Falls First enough. To be honest, I didn't know what to expect when I dove into this one somewhat blindly, but whoa, it turned out to be one of the BEST books I'd read in my whole life. Ryder and Penny showed us what a healthy relationship looked like and I hoped we all got to experience what they shared as well. Now I seriously cannot wait to read the other two Colburn brothers', Caleb's and Tucker's, very own love story!
***Massive thanks to the author and Hambright PR for gifting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
August 8, 2025
Second read: Yep. 2.5 stars. Love the characters, love the sarcasm, and love the setup for future books. But... but... but...
Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
2.5 stars.
This book was challenging to rate. The cast of characters, the backstories, the potential for future books were all at a 4-star level. However, there was a lot more graphic sex and f-bombs that this author has had in most of her recent books. Also, when it came to the actual story, there wasn't a lot of "there" there. There was the love story. There was lots of sex. There were cute kids. There was Shalvis' delightfully snarky and entertaining interactions with both Ryder's and Penny's families and their friends and employees. But the actual story just sort of meandered. At certain points I felt like "yes!, now we're getting into the real story here." but it just didn't happen.
So, bottom line, I'm considering this book in the same light as Book 1 ("Sweet Little Lies") of her "Heartbreaker Bay" series. Like "Sweet Little Lies", "He Falls First" is not my favorite story but it appears to nicely set up the whole structure of characters and plot lines for future stories.
Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
2.5 stars.
This book was challenging to rate. The cast of characters, the backstories, the potential for future books were all at a 4-star level. However, there was a lot more graphic sex and f-bombs that this author has had in most of her recent books. Also, when it came to the actual story, there wasn't a lot of "there" there. There was the love story. There was lots of sex. There were cute kids. There was Shalvis' delightfully snarky and entertaining interactions with both Ryder's and Penny's families and their friends and employees. But the actual story just sort of meandered. At certain points I felt like "yes!, now we're getting into the real story here." but it just didn't happen.
So, bottom line, I'm considering this book in the same light as Book 1 ("Sweet Little Lies") of her "Heartbreaker Bay" series. Like "Sweet Little Lies", "He Falls First" is not my favorite story but it appears to nicely set up the whole structure of characters and plot lines for future stories.
August 6, 2025
I started reading this story expecting a sweet, emotional romance. The setup was solid: Ryder, a gruff contractor with family baggage, and Penny, a guarded chef with a complicated past, meeting in a cozy small town. It had all the ingredients for a great love story. Their initial spark gave me high hopes, but the chemistry fizzled quickly.
The plot lacked momentum, and the story began to feel repetitive and disconnected as it went on. I wanted to fall in love with their journey, but it just didn’t click.
*Thank you to the author and Hambright PR for gifting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The plot lacked momentum, and the story began to feel repetitive and disconnected as it went on. I wanted to fall in love with their journey, but it just didn’t click.
*Thank you to the author and Hambright PR for gifting me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2025
He Falls First is my first book by prolific author Jill Shalvis (how is that possible?) and I really enjoyed it. As the title says, the male main character, Ryder, falls hard for Penny, the female main character. Penny has major trust issues due to an abusive ex. She has come home to Star Falls, a town in California, to help her grandmother raise her much younger brother, while her mother is who-knows-where. Ryder is the oldest brother in the Colburn family whose family business is restoring and renovating buildings. He also has issues, due to his extremely domineering father - who has now turned into someone completely different: a docile stroke victim who doesn’t speak. Ryder is also still mourning his best friend and business partner, who died in a skiing accident, leaving his sister Keira a widow with two toddlers.
There’s a legend in Star Falls that seeing three falling stars means a soulmate will enter your life - and the three Colburn brothers see three falling stars while they are together. I’m hoping that further books in this new series will reveal who the soulmates are for Tucker and Caleb, the other two brothers.
Because of Penny’s trust issues, this is a slow-burn romance, as the two gradually give in to their obvious attraction and share their traumas. Reading about Penny’s cooking made me hungry!
I enjoyed some of the side characters as well, including Ryder’s two brothers, Penny’s grandmother and her 12-going-on-18-year-old brother.
The chapters vary between telling things from Penny’s POV and from Ryder’s. I was lucky enough to have both an ebook and physical book as well as an audiobook to enjoy. The audiobook was beautifully narrated by Lila Winters and Sebastian York.
Be aware that there are a number of spicy scenes, as well as some spicy banter and texting.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book and to listen to an advance copy of the audiobook. All opinions are my own.
There’s a legend in Star Falls that seeing three falling stars means a soulmate will enter your life - and the three Colburn brothers see three falling stars while they are together. I’m hoping that further books in this new series will reveal who the soulmates are for Tucker and Caleb, the other two brothers.
Because of Penny’s trust issues, this is a slow-burn romance, as the two gradually give in to their obvious attraction and share their traumas. Reading about Penny’s cooking made me hungry!
I enjoyed some of the side characters as well, including Ryder’s two brothers, Penny’s grandmother and her 12-going-on-18-year-old brother.
The chapters vary between telling things from Penny’s POV and from Ryder’s. I was lucky enough to have both an ebook and physical book as well as an audiobook to enjoy. The audiobook was beautifully narrated by Lila Winters and Sebastian York.
Be aware that there are a number of spicy scenes, as well as some spicy banter and texting.
Thank you to Hambright PR for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book and to listen to an advance copy of the audiobook. All opinions are my own.
July 28, 2025
This was everything I love about a Jill Shalvis book, it had her signature wit, lovable small town charm, and banter that crackles. It gave me strong vibes of her earlier work (in the best way!) and introduced a new series I’m already hooked on.
Ryder is the ultimate grump with a marshmallow center 🥺— completely down bad for Penny, and I ate up every second of it. Penny stole my heart too, she’s always putting others first, so seeing her take a chance on love? Adorable. Add in hilarious, heartwarming side characters and the tight bond between the Colburn brothers, and I’m already desperate for their stories next. Bring on the next books!
Ryder is the ultimate grump with a marshmallow center 🥺— completely down bad for Penny, and I ate up every second of it. Penny stole my heart too, she’s always putting others first, so seeing her take a chance on love? Adorable. Add in hilarious, heartwarming side characters and the tight bond between the Colburn brothers, and I’m already desperate for their stories next. Bring on the next books!
August 12, 2025
this was really really cute, I loved all the characters and am actually so excited for the next book in the series
August 13, 2025
Penny has moved back to her small town, living with her grandmother and half brother after getting out of a bad relationship. She works for a catering company, keeps her head down, and helps her family out. She’s not ready for a relationship. Ryder is the CEO of the family business, and caretaker to his father. All of that leaves his little to no free time. Until he meets Penny. And while Penny’s grandmother tells him to ask Penny out, he really didn’t need the push. He realizes that Penny’s been hurt and wants to make sure she’s comfortable and things go at her pace. But can he break down Penny’s walls?
This has become one of my favorite books by Shalvis. It feels so real and honest. Both of the character deal with real, everyday life situations, and nothing feels rushed. Some may describe it as a slow burn romance, but it didn’t feel like a slow burn. There’s a ton of flirting, there’s kissing and more. It felt like these characters went at the exact right speed for them and who they were and what experiences that brought into the relationship.
Ryder was so very sweet. His willingness to help everyone around him was really amazing. He made me laugh too – especially when he tried to bake cookies! I think I would love to have a guy like Ryder in my life. He definitely is book boyfriend material. He’s protective but he’s not afraid to open up. Yeah.. I think I fell for him a little!
This book is perfect for romance readers. It reads quickly because you just are swooning the whole time. It’s out now, so what are you waiting for? Go get it!
This has become one of my favorite books by Shalvis. It feels so real and honest. Both of the character deal with real, everyday life situations, and nothing feels rushed. Some may describe it as a slow burn romance, but it didn’t feel like a slow burn. There’s a ton of flirting, there’s kissing and more. It felt like these characters went at the exact right speed for them and who they were and what experiences that brought into the relationship.
Ryder was so very sweet. His willingness to help everyone around him was really amazing. He made me laugh too – especially when he tried to bake cookies! I think I would love to have a guy like Ryder in my life. He definitely is book boyfriend material. He’s protective but he’s not afraid to open up. Yeah.. I think I fell for him a little!
This book is perfect for romance readers. It reads quickly because you just are swooning the whole time. It’s out now, so what are you waiting for? Go get it!
August 15, 2025
4/5 ⭐️
1.5/5 🌶️
This book follows MMC (Ryder) and FMC (Penny). Ryder owns a company with his brothers that does remodels and construction. Penny is a chef.
Ever since Ryder’s BFF died in a tragic accident, he had to take on the business role in the company and no longer is able to do the day to day of working with his hands. Penny works for Ryder’s sister’s catering company. Ryder’s sister was married to his best friend who died. Penny caters a lot of meals of Ryder’s company each week
Penny is newly moved back to town after leaving a (verbally) abusive relationship. She moves into her grandmother’s house. Her half brother also lives there. Her mom is alive, but not in the picture. So it’s up to Penny to keep it together. But, the house needs work and is falling apart around them. Enter Ryder, who wants to get back to his roots. Will Penny learn to love again?
Thanks to Jill and the Hambright PR team for an audio copy of this book.
1.5/5 🌶️
This book follows MMC (Ryder) and FMC (Penny). Ryder owns a company with his brothers that does remodels and construction. Penny is a chef.
Ever since Ryder’s BFF died in a tragic accident, he had to take on the business role in the company and no longer is able to do the day to day of working with his hands. Penny works for Ryder’s sister’s catering company. Ryder’s sister was married to his best friend who died. Penny caters a lot of meals of Ryder’s company each week
Penny is newly moved back to town after leaving a (verbally) abusive relationship. She moves into her grandmother’s house. Her half brother also lives there. Her mom is alive, but not in the picture. So it’s up to Penny to keep it together. But, the house needs work and is falling apart around them. Enter Ryder, who wants to get back to his roots. Will Penny learn to love again?
Thanks to Jill and the Hambright PR team for an audio copy of this book.
August 5, 2025
I am so excited about this series! This first book was a good one and I am loving these brothers already.
Penny is independent, fierce, selfless, sarcastic, and still trying to heal from a past relationship. She moved back home to help care for her younger brother and help her grandmother. Ryder is the grumpy, sexy hero, older brother, contractor and CEO of his family business. He is always putting everyone else ahead of himself and blaming himself for his best friend’s death and caring for his father. He has a troubled childhood and haunted dreams that he has a hard time letting go of also.
The two of them together have the best banter and chemistry that is extremely hot and off the charts! I love the way he keeps showing up for her and her family. Letting her pick the pace at which they go. He is so patient and sweet, just swoon! The two challenge one another, but also push each other to open up and help heal each other also. There was so much character growth. It was beautiful to see.
I loved the side characters too! Wyatt (younger brother), the meddling Grandma Nell, Tucker and Caleb (the other Colburn brothers), Kiera and the twins (his sister), and even Pika-boo (the HILARIOUS parrot).
ⓐⓤⓓⓘⓞ ⓣⓗⓞⓤⓖⓗⓣⓢ
Lila and Sebastian did an amazing job with this narration. They had me giggling, swooning, and even fanning myself. They brought these amazing characters to life and gave them a voice.
Penny is independent, fierce, selfless, sarcastic, and still trying to heal from a past relationship. She moved back home to help care for her younger brother and help her grandmother. Ryder is the grumpy, sexy hero, older brother, contractor and CEO of his family business. He is always putting everyone else ahead of himself and blaming himself for his best friend’s death and caring for his father. He has a troubled childhood and haunted dreams that he has a hard time letting go of also.
The two of them together have the best banter and chemistry that is extremely hot and off the charts! I love the way he keeps showing up for her and her family. Letting her pick the pace at which they go. He is so patient and sweet, just swoon! The two challenge one another, but also push each other to open up and help heal each other also. There was so much character growth. It was beautiful to see.
I loved the side characters too! Wyatt (younger brother), the meddling Grandma Nell, Tucker and Caleb (the other Colburn brothers), Kiera and the twins (his sister), and even Pika-boo (the HILARIOUS parrot).
ⓐⓤⓓⓘⓞ ⓣⓗⓞⓤⓖⓗⓣⓢ
Lila and Sebastian did an amazing job with this narration. They had me giggling, swooning, and even fanning myself. They brought these amazing characters to life and gave them a voice.
September 3, 2025
A beautiful love story...heartwarming, authentic, well-developed characters, great writing. The audio is fantastic! Looking forward to the next one!
June 25, 2025
Jill Shalvis never disappoints and kicks off a brand new series I’m already obsessed with and can’t wait for more!
It had been a hot minute since I read a book by Jill Shalvis but diving into He Falls First felt like coming home to her work. She never disappoints when it comes to crafting romance novels that suck you in with the best characters that you want to follow deep into a series you hope never ends.
He Falls First is the first book in her new Colburn Brothers series which not only gives a wonderful happily-ever-after of its own but which makes you totally hungry for all of the Colburn siblings’ stories. I’m convinced nobody sets up a series as well as Jill.
But this one focuses on the older brother, Ryder, who is always the one who looks out for his younger siblings given how they grew up with an abusive father (hints off page). Despite his past, he is a man who is extremely patient, kind and emotionally aware which makes him the perfect match for Penny because she just left an abusive relationship.
Ryder made me swoon time and time again with his emotional intelligence and how he let Penny set the pace for their relationship. It was really hard for her to not only trust a man but to trust herself and it was wonderful to see her finally meet a worthy man given all that she was juggling in her life.
If you’re looking for a swoon worthy romance with a great family of characters then definitely pick up He Falls First. I cannot wait to read Caleb’s story next in Free Falling!
*I received an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
It had been a hot minute since I read a book by Jill Shalvis but diving into He Falls First felt like coming home to her work. She never disappoints when it comes to crafting romance novels that suck you in with the best characters that you want to follow deep into a series you hope never ends.
He Falls First is the first book in her new Colburn Brothers series which not only gives a wonderful happily-ever-after of its own but which makes you totally hungry for all of the Colburn siblings’ stories. I’m convinced nobody sets up a series as well as Jill.
But this one focuses on the older brother, Ryder, who is always the one who looks out for his younger siblings given how they grew up with an abusive father (hints off page). Despite his past, he is a man who is extremely patient, kind and emotionally aware which makes him the perfect match for Penny because she just left an abusive relationship.
Ryder made me swoon time and time again with his emotional intelligence and how he let Penny set the pace for their relationship. It was really hard for her to not only trust a man but to trust herself and it was wonderful to see her finally meet a worthy man given all that she was juggling in her life.
If you’re looking for a swoon worthy romance with a great family of characters then definitely pick up He Falls First. I cannot wait to read Caleb’s story next in Free Falling!
*I received an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
August 23, 2025
Jill Shalvis never disappoints me with her romances and I can already tell I am going to be smitten with the Colburn brothers/ family. I adored the characters in this book! Jill always writes such amazing secondary characters and these did not disappoint. From Penny's grandmother Nell and little brother Wyatt to their hilarious pet parrot, Pika-Boo. To Ryder's dad, siblings and adorable niece and nephew - every character added to the story and I'm excited to see more of them as the series continues.
Ryder Colburn is the oldest brother and head of Colburn Restorations. He has taken on lots of family responsibility, including the daily care of his dad who was abusive to the siblings growing up and is struggling with guilt over the death of his best friend. Penny has returned to her grandmother's house on the heels of a bad relationship/break-up, to help care for her and her younger brother, in her mother's absence. She works as a chef for Ryder's sister, Keira and one of her accounts is providing food to Colburn Restorations.
I loved watching Ryder and Penny come together. I love a well done he falls first romance and this one was. Ryder was so patient with Penny and her reluctance to be in a relationship. It was evident that these two had chemistry but I absolutely loved how they communicated, respected each other, were emotionally aware and grew together. And the spice was HOT! These two had some amazing chemistry.
I had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook and loved it. It is narrated by Lila Winters and Sebastian York and they killed it! They brought Ryder and Penny's banter, humor and chemistry to life so well. Can't wait for more of the Colburn brothers!
Ryder Colburn is the oldest brother and head of Colburn Restorations. He has taken on lots of family responsibility, including the daily care of his dad who was abusive to the siblings growing up and is struggling with guilt over the death of his best friend. Penny has returned to her grandmother's house on the heels of a bad relationship/break-up, to help care for her and her younger brother, in her mother's absence. She works as a chef for Ryder's sister, Keira and one of her accounts is providing food to Colburn Restorations.
I loved watching Ryder and Penny come together. I love a well done he falls first romance and this one was. Ryder was so patient with Penny and her reluctance to be in a relationship. It was evident that these two had chemistry but I absolutely loved how they communicated, respected each other, were emotionally aware and grew together. And the spice was HOT! These two had some amazing chemistry.
I had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook and loved it. It is narrated by Lila Winters and Sebastian York and they killed it! They brought Ryder and Penny's banter, humor and chemistry to life so well. Can't wait for more of the Colburn brothers!
August 5, 2025
4 Stars!
We journey to Star Falls for the first book in Jill Shalvis’ new Colburn Brothers series.
You get quite the information dump in the first few chapters of the book which I must admit kept me from getting into the story initially, we start with Ryder Colburn eldest of the Colburn clan, you are then introduced to his siblings Caleb, Tucker and Kiera, all of whom have backstories themselves as well as their father Hank who is a whole other story too.
We also get Penny, love interest and her family; brother Wyatt, and Gran and a couple of her friends and all their backgrounds, not in-depth but it is an awful lot to process from the off.
That said once the story between Ryder and Penny started to flow, I did get into it, the characters have their usual charm, quirks and baggage, and I did enjoy the family dynamics more as the book progressed.
Can’t lie though being a budgie owner myself peek-a-boo the budgie was my favourite character in every scene he stole.
Great start to the series, just a little off with the overall information delivery for what were essentially secondary characters in this book. That-said the author has set up the rest of the Colburn family nicely for the delivery of their individual stories down the line.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for the above honest review.
We journey to Star Falls for the first book in Jill Shalvis’ new Colburn Brothers series.
You get quite the information dump in the first few chapters of the book which I must admit kept me from getting into the story initially, we start with Ryder Colburn eldest of the Colburn clan, you are then introduced to his siblings Caleb, Tucker and Kiera, all of whom have backstories themselves as well as their father Hank who is a whole other story too.
We also get Penny, love interest and her family; brother Wyatt, and Gran and a couple of her friends and all their backgrounds, not in-depth but it is an awful lot to process from the off.
That said once the story between Ryder and Penny started to flow, I did get into it, the characters have their usual charm, quirks and baggage, and I did enjoy the family dynamics more as the book progressed.
Can’t lie though being a budgie owner myself peek-a-boo the budgie was my favourite character in every scene he stole.
Great start to the series, just a little off with the overall information delivery for what were essentially secondary characters in this book. That-said the author has set up the rest of the Colburn family nicely for the delivery of their individual stories down the line.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for the above honest review.
August 11, 2025
Off to a great start with this new series. Ryder the oldest of four siblings has plenty on his shoulders. Crazy fun loving brothers, a sister who is in mourning which he feels responsible for. A adorable niece and nephew who are his sister’s twins, taking care of his once upon a time abusive father. And on top of all that running the family business. No wonder that he is cranky, who has time for a personal life. And then he saves Penny from an oncoming truck in front of his business, but it’s Ryder who gets stuck by Cupid arrow or the legend of the three shooting stars.
Penny has left behind everything in Seattle including her abusive partner and comes home to Star Falls to heal and help her grandmother raise her 12 year old brother Wyatt. Money is tight and the home is falling apart, working all the hours she can at the catering company is wearing her out. Not the dream she had for herself but one can dream. When she was delivering her daily breakfast to the Colburn company she has trouble with the food cart and almost was hit by a truck. If the sexy, owner hadn’t pushed her out of the truck way she would’ve been seriously injured. Her hero is super patient with her and insists to take care of her scraps. Not quite what Penny wants, she has written off men. Of course Ryder has the patience of a saint and the wall around her heart is chipping away.
There are several laugh out loud moments with the brothers and Grandma crazy talking bird. I enjoyed reading the antics of the brothers and can’t wait to read their stories. Yes expect some steamy parts. 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for this enjoyable ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Penny has left behind everything in Seattle including her abusive partner and comes home to Star Falls to heal and help her grandmother raise her 12 year old brother Wyatt. Money is tight and the home is falling apart, working all the hours she can at the catering company is wearing her out. Not the dream she had for herself but one can dream. When she was delivering her daily breakfast to the Colburn company she has trouble with the food cart and almost was hit by a truck. If the sexy, owner hadn’t pushed her out of the truck way she would’ve been seriously injured. Her hero is super patient with her and insists to take care of her scraps. Not quite what Penny wants, she has written off men. Of course Ryder has the patience of a saint and the wall around her heart is chipping away.
There are several laugh out loud moments with the brothers and Grandma crazy talking bird. I enjoyed reading the antics of the brothers and can’t wait to read their stories. Yes expect some steamy parts. 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for this enjoyable ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 22, 2025
“I felt sick with worry that I’d lose Penny. I should’ve known I’d mess it up, that you couldn’t catch sunlight, couldn’t hold it in your hands. Sunlight was only to be looked at, never touched.”
It’s been twelve years since I’ve read a Shalvis book, and this one was exactly as I remembered this author’s work: It’s a lovely feel-good romance, rather drama-free and without a (real) third-act breakup, with warm-hearted, likeable main characters. (In Gloria’s words: It was cute.)
After escaping an abusive relationship, Penny has serious trust issues, and this is the problem the couple must overcome. Despite falling for each other quickly, she takes a step back several times. But Ryder is willing to wait – he is the perfect man for her, thoughtful and patient to no end, even though he has to carry his own burden.
Whether these two get together is just a question of when, not if. So overall, I would have liked a little more drama, because the book was borderline boring at times with all these nice people and their endless understanding. Still, it was an enjoyable read, and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
3.5
It’s been twelve years since I’ve read a Shalvis book, and this one was exactly as I remembered this author’s work: It’s a lovely feel-good romance, rather drama-free and without a (real) third-act breakup, with warm-hearted, likeable main characters. (In Gloria’s words: It was cute.)
After escaping an abusive relationship, Penny has serious trust issues, and this is the problem the couple must overcome. Despite falling for each other quickly, she takes a step back several times. But Ryder is willing to wait – he is the perfect man for her, thoughtful and patient to no end, even though he has to carry his own burden.
Whether these two get together is just a question of when, not if. So overall, I would have liked a little more drama, because the book was borderline boring at times with all these nice people and their endless understanding. Still, it was an enjoyable read, and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
3.5
Read
July 11, 2025DNF at 60%.
*Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own and given freely.
This one started out so great. Their first interaction made me giddy for more. But then it fell apart for me bit by bit. The pieces of this story just didn’t seem to connect and flow well. There was so much repetition the further I read, circling round and round again. It just made me lose interest unfortunately. Leaving this one unrated.
*Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca for the ARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own and given freely.
This one started out so great. Their first interaction made me giddy for more. But then it fell apart for me bit by bit. The pieces of this story just didn’t seem to connect and flow well. There was so much repetition the further I read, circling round and round again. It just made me lose interest unfortunately. Leaving this one unrated.
August 16, 2025
He Falls First is such a sweet book!! The characters were adorable with strong family bonds. This is my first read by Jill Shalvis.
I would describe this book as a cozy romance with minimal conflict.
The main characters, Penny and Ryder, both have trauma in their lives that cause them to have trouble connecting to someone romantically. Throughout the story, they both struggle to work through their issues and slowly grow closer together. This book definitely has insta-lust for both main characters with a lot of ogling. Ryder at times says things only a man written by a woman would, but I think this makes him more endearing. I struggled a bit to believe Penny’s movement from lust to love. I needed more from her. The banter was good and the side characters were entertaining including Ryder’s brothers, Penny’s grandmother, and the little pet bird.
This book took place in a small town. I would’ve liked to explore the town more in the story.
This audiobook had dual narration. I really liked the female narrator and her character voices. I enjoyed the deep voice of the male narrator however I would’ve liked more inflection in his delivery as some of the dialogue seemed to run together.
There was spice in this book, between 2-3 🌶️.
Overall, this was an enjoyable, sweet, cozy read and I would continue the series.
Thank you Hambright PR and the author for the gifted advanced listener’s copy of this audiobook!
I would describe this book as a cozy romance with minimal conflict.
The main characters, Penny and Ryder, both have trauma in their lives that cause them to have trouble connecting to someone romantically. Throughout the story, they both struggle to work through their issues and slowly grow closer together. This book definitely has insta-lust for both main characters with a lot of ogling. Ryder at times says things only a man written by a woman would, but I think this makes him more endearing. I struggled a bit to believe Penny’s movement from lust to love. I needed more from her. The banter was good and the side characters were entertaining including Ryder’s brothers, Penny’s grandmother, and the little pet bird.
This book took place in a small town. I would’ve liked to explore the town more in the story.
This audiobook had dual narration. I really liked the female narrator and her character voices. I enjoyed the deep voice of the male narrator however I would’ve liked more inflection in his delivery as some of the dialogue seemed to run together.
There was spice in this book, between 2-3 🌶️.
Overall, this was an enjoyable, sweet, cozy read and I would continue the series.
Thank you Hambright PR and the author for the gifted advanced listener’s copy of this audiobook!
August 3, 2025
Thank you to @jillshalvis @sourcebookscasa and @netgalley for the #gifted e-book.
This is the exhilarating first book in the Colburn Brothers series, and it truly exceeds expectations.
Ryland and Penny are both nursing past wounds and are determined to steer clear of love. But when their paths cross, undeniable sparks ignite. Can they set aside their histories to embrace the possibility of a new romance?
This captivating story weaves a beautiful tale of love that had me completely enthralled. The chemistry and playful banter between Ryland and Penny are delightful, demonstrating a deep connection that grows as Ryland gently allows Penny to take the lead. The dynamic among the Colburn brothers, Ryland, Caleb, and Tucker, is fantastic, filled with humor and brotherly camaraderie. Penny's spirited and feisty grandmother is fiercely protective of her family.
This heartwarming romance promises to leave you with a smile, culminating in a satisfying happily-ever-after. I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment featuring Caleb!
If you’re a fan of immersive romance stories that captivate your heart, this book is a must-read. Mark your calendars for its release on August 5, 2025!
This is the exhilarating first book in the Colburn Brothers series, and it truly exceeds expectations.
Ryland and Penny are both nursing past wounds and are determined to steer clear of love. But when their paths cross, undeniable sparks ignite. Can they set aside their histories to embrace the possibility of a new romance?
This captivating story weaves a beautiful tale of love that had me completely enthralled. The chemistry and playful banter between Ryland and Penny are delightful, demonstrating a deep connection that grows as Ryland gently allows Penny to take the lead. The dynamic among the Colburn brothers, Ryland, Caleb, and Tucker, is fantastic, filled with humor and brotherly camaraderie. Penny's spirited and feisty grandmother is fiercely protective of her family.
This heartwarming romance promises to leave you with a smile, culminating in a satisfying happily-ever-after. I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment featuring Caleb!
If you’re a fan of immersive romance stories that captivate your heart, this book is a must-read. Mark your calendars for its release on August 5, 2025!
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