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Eve Falls First
Teacher Eve Marshall has just crawled out of a bad relationship and has no
plans to get twisted up in another romantic mess. Except she never counted on
meeting the jaw-dropping Scarlet Hunt.
Yoga instructor Scarlet has been focused on raising her daughter since her ex-
wife ditched them both to pursue her Hollywood dreams. The last thing she
expects is to stumble into Eve’s adoring gaze. The teacher at her daughter’s
school is too young, too cute, and far too interested, so it’d be wildly
inappropriate to ask Eve to tutor her daughter. Right?
As the risk of catching feelings hangs over them, a certain sexy Hollywood ex
swaggers back into Scarlet’s life, needing one hell of a favor… How much more
complicated can life get?
plans to get twisted up in another romantic mess. Except she never counted on
meeting the jaw-dropping Scarlet Hunt.
Yoga instructor Scarlet has been focused on raising her daughter since her ex-
wife ditched them both to pursue her Hollywood dreams. The last thing she
expects is to stumble into Eve’s adoring gaze. The teacher at her daughter’s
school is too young, too cute, and far too interested, so it’d be wildly
inappropriate to ask Eve to tutor her daughter. Right?
As the risk of catching feelings hangs over them, a certain sexy Hollywood ex
swaggers back into Scarlet’s life, needing one hell of a favor… How much more
complicated can life get?
226 pages, Paperback
Published March 5, 2025
37 people are currently reading
152 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Zedde
59 books412 followersJamaican-born Fiona Zedde is the author of several novellas and novels of lesBiQueer love and desire, including the Lambda Literary Award finalists, Bliss and Every Dark Desire. She loves French pastries, English cars, Jamaican food, and currently lives in Spain.
Her novel, Dangerous Pleasures, received a Publishers Weekly starred review and won an About.com Readers' Choice Award for Best Lesbian Novel/Memoir. Her latest book, Just Like Her, is out now. Find out more about her catalog of 30+ books at www.FionaZedde.com.
Her novel, Dangerous Pleasures, received a Publishers Weekly starred review and won an About.com Readers' Choice Award for Best Lesbian Novel/Memoir. Her latest book, Just Like Her, is out now. Find out more about her catalog of 30+ books at www.FionaZedde.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 2, 2025
4⭐️
After Scarlet was left by her wife Nita, the aspiring Hollywood actress, she moved to a small town in California with her now twelve-year-old daughter Maya. After this massive disappointment, she had to work on her self-esteem and struggled to get back on her feet. She now works as a yoga and Pilates teacher in her own business. At a PTA meeting at Maya's school, she meets Eve, a much younger teacher. She likes the admiration in Eve's gaze when their eyes meet - and she is attracted to this much-too-young woman, even though she knows she will never give in to her lust. Eve also tutors to supplement her income and has a social media channel to show off her fashionable creations.
I liked the small-town feel and the smaller and bigger dramas. Scarlet, Maya, Eve, and their friends are good people with all their flaws and fears but also with big hearts. Their fears and problems are real and still relevant today. There is also a bit of drama, but it is not overused. The attraction is palpable, the chemistry is hot, and the sex is sizzling.
If you love the combination of single motherhood and age difference, you've come to the right place. There's even a bit of Hollywood glamor sprinkled in. Best friends, an adorable daughter and a somewhat bitchy ex are also woven into the mix. The whole thing is written fluidly and with enough eroticism to enjoy a few happy and sometimes hot hours.
An entertaining romance with lovable characters and an adorable kid.
Thank you to Ylva and NetGalley for receiving an ARC.
After Scarlet was left by her wife Nita, the aspiring Hollywood actress, she moved to a small town in California with her now twelve-year-old daughter Maya. After this massive disappointment, she had to work on her self-esteem and struggled to get back on her feet. She now works as a yoga and Pilates teacher in her own business. At a PTA meeting at Maya's school, she meets Eve, a much younger teacher. She likes the admiration in Eve's gaze when their eyes meet - and she is attracted to this much-too-young woman, even though she knows she will never give in to her lust. Eve also tutors to supplement her income and has a social media channel to show off her fashionable creations.
I liked the small-town feel and the smaller and bigger dramas. Scarlet, Maya, Eve, and their friends are good people with all their flaws and fears but also with big hearts. Their fears and problems are real and still relevant today. There is also a bit of drama, but it is not overused. The attraction is palpable, the chemistry is hot, and the sex is sizzling.
If you love the combination of single motherhood and age difference, you've come to the right place. There's even a bit of Hollywood glamor sprinkled in. Best friends, an adorable daughter and a somewhat bitchy ex are also woven into the mix. The whole thing is written fluidly and with enough eroticism to enjoy a few happy and sometimes hot hours.
An entertaining romance with lovable characters and an adorable kid.
Thank you to Ylva and NetGalley for receiving an ARC.
April 17, 2025
I am a but worried about myself. There were a lot of good things in this book. Chemistry between the characters, hot sex scenes, an endearing and meddling too smart for her own good daughter. I don't know why I could not get invested in Scarlet and Eve...They are attracted to each other that's clear, and I appreciated that how the age gap was treated, with realistic questions. But I didn't get why they fell in love, and the love realization came a bit quick to me, even if there are sweets scenes. But I really liked all the drama around them, with annoying and toxic exes, and a tiny dose of mystery. The third part got the perfect dose of drama. PS : why was a famous ballerina brought by Scarlet's ex? Was there a point there ?
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March 5, 2025While this book has a style that reads easy, it’s not one that’ll stick with me.
The cover is very cute and colourful, similar to the story. Although I do think this cover is more befitting a different type of story.
This story is an age gap, lust at first (or second) sight, turns to sort of a romance. And when I say romance I don’t even really believe that part. There is talk of love and commitment and seeing each other completely, appreciating the other person fully, but for me the story is more about lust than anything else.
Some secondary storylines and characters only add to my annoyance. Especially a both storylines about exes. For me the story is just too flimsy, it’s just lust filled and very young and “easy”. Nothing wrong with that, maybe not something I would read again.
I’ve read other books by Zedde and they spoke to me more because u felt like the characters were better developed and the storyline want just based on sex.
The cover is very cute and colourful, similar to the story. Although I do think this cover is more befitting a different type of story.
This story is an age gap, lust at first (or second) sight, turns to sort of a romance. And when I say romance I don’t even really believe that part. There is talk of love and commitment and seeing each other completely, appreciating the other person fully, but for me the story is more about lust than anything else.
Some secondary storylines and characters only add to my annoyance. Especially a both storylines about exes. For me the story is just too flimsy, it’s just lust filled and very young and “easy”. Nothing wrong with that, maybe not something I would read again.
I’ve read other books by Zedde and they spoke to me more because u felt like the characters were better developed and the storyline want just based on sex.
May 18, 2025
Eve Falls First is a super cute age gap romance. I found both Scarlet, a single mom raising her daughter after her wife left them to pursue stardom and Eve, a teacher, recovering from her own broken relationship, to be charming and likeable. The romance is helped along by Scarlet's meddlesome daughter.
If you are looking for a light romance with humor and sexy scenes, this is one to check out! \
An ARC was received from NetGalley for an honest review.
If you are looking for a light romance with humor and sexy scenes, this is one to check out! \
An ARC was received from NetGalley for an honest review.
June 8, 2025
(rounded down from 3.25)
I think this one's mid-rating was based on my personal taste. I enjoyed the world, an idyllic small town where people get to start over. I wasn't particularly invested in the relationship between Eve and Scarlett because it felt a lot more like lust that moves very quickly into feelings, and then a ton of third-act break-up excuses that really don't hold much water to add some conflict. We may have been better served by exploring the issues the main characters have in the past due to abandonment and how each of them has basically the same issues, but needs to get over them to trust a new partner, despite the age, money and parental responsibilities gap. There's a lot of interesting conflict just in that background that could lead to some juicy character moments, but we kind of abandon it for contrived conflict with the ex wanting Scarlett back and Eve's toxic ex still wanting her for some reason too.
I think this one's mid-rating was based on my personal taste. I enjoyed the world, an idyllic small town where people get to start over. I wasn't particularly invested in the relationship between Eve and Scarlett because it felt a lot more like lust that moves very quickly into feelings, and then a ton of third-act break-up excuses that really don't hold much water to add some conflict. We may have been better served by exploring the issues the main characters have in the past due to abandonment and how each of them has basically the same issues, but needs to get over them to trust a new partner, despite the age, money and parental responsibilities gap. There's a lot of interesting conflict just in that background that could lead to some juicy character moments, but we kind of abandon it for contrived conflict with the ex wanting Scarlett back and Eve's toxic ex still wanting her for some reason too.
March 21, 2025
Eve, a twenty-four-year-old teacher who has a crush on a single mom whose daughter attends the school. Scarlett, a forty-one-year-old yoga instructor and single mom, attracts the attention of a much younger woman.
It was a good plot and a quick read for me. In the beginning, I would get second-hand embarrassment from how obvious Eve was about her interest in Scarlett. Exes get added into the mix and stir the pot, but that kept things interesting. Eve and Scarlett have great chemistry and the sex was spicy. I look forward to reading another book by the author. Happy reading!
It was a good plot and a quick read for me. In the beginning, I would get second-hand embarrassment from how obvious Eve was about her interest in Scarlett. Exes get added into the mix and stir the pot, but that kept things interesting. Eve and Scarlett have great chemistry and the sex was spicy. I look forward to reading another book by the author. Happy reading!
February 27, 2025
Another awesome erotic romance by Fiona Zedde. This time a single lesbian mother, Scarlett, falls for Eve who is 20 years younger and becomes her daughter’s tutor. The bold proximity but respectful boundaries of the child to the flirtations and sexuality of the mother and her tutor were very well done. Eve Falls First was a light and fun read and very welcome in these times.
Fiona’s erotic writing is just the best. There is such a nice variety in the novel, from the “human circus” scene to the intimacy of—
“Joy, relief, tenderness.
Their lips slotted together, then clung as sweet emotion shivered through Eve’s body and Scarlett’s arms wrapped around her.”
I enjoyed the structure of the novel with the alternation of the two voices driving the plot, never awkward or repetitive—very smooth. And Fiona’s details are always so entertaining— after Eve and her friend Trish just had something to eat, Trish’s dog “barked and jumped up to lick Eve’s face, his doggy breath smelling suspiciously like pizza.”
Born in Jamaica but has made both the U.S. and Spain home, Fiona Zedde is her pen name. She has written more than thirty queer books—erotica, fantasy, vampire, romance.
Once I heard Fiona Zedde express the idea of wanting to explore and reveal the many varieties of lesbian and queer relationships in her writing. What an admirable ambition! In Eve Falls First she tackles the theme of lesbian motherhood and generational differences and it was a great read. Thank you for your work, Fiona Zedde.
Fiona’s erotic writing is just the best. There is such a nice variety in the novel, from the “human circus” scene to the intimacy of—
“Joy, relief, tenderness.
Their lips slotted together, then clung as sweet emotion shivered through Eve’s body and Scarlett’s arms wrapped around her.”
I enjoyed the structure of the novel with the alternation of the two voices driving the plot, never awkward or repetitive—very smooth. And Fiona’s details are always so entertaining— after Eve and her friend Trish just had something to eat, Trish’s dog “barked and jumped up to lick Eve’s face, his doggy breath smelling suspiciously like pizza.”
Born in Jamaica but has made both the U.S. and Spain home, Fiona Zedde is her pen name. She has written more than thirty queer books—erotica, fantasy, vampire, romance.
Once I heard Fiona Zedde express the idea of wanting to explore and reveal the many varieties of lesbian and queer relationships in her writing. What an admirable ambition! In Eve Falls First she tackles the theme of lesbian motherhood and generational differences and it was a great read. Thank you for your work, Fiona Zedde.
April 2, 2025
Sweet drama filled romance!
Scarlet meets teacher, Eve, when she needs a tutor for her daughter. When Eve finds herself attracted to Scarlet, Scarlet is caught up in their age gap and when her starlet of an ex also returns, things get even more complicated.
To start everything about this story seemed very sweet, all an innocent crush shared between two women with broken hearts and complications from the past. Then, as if out of nowhere in true Hollywood style came a drama of an equal size. I adored Scarlet’s hesitance about their age gap because it didn’t stop her enjoying Eve’s company and building a friendship, it just made her wary. When we learned more about her and her past relationship that started making more and more sense.
As with all romances where a kid is involved Scarlet’s daughter was a catalyst for events and definitely helped to make sure they spent cute, and sometimes awkward moments together. She was quite the little character but did all she could to get her mother and Eve together and make sure they knew she approved. Those moments had me smiling and loving the idea of them building a life together. I really had to hope because with Eve’s broken heart, she deserved this happiness.
A really enjoyable romance that had me hopeful for a happy future for Eve and Scarlet.
Scarlet meets teacher, Eve, when she needs a tutor for her daughter. When Eve finds herself attracted to Scarlet, Scarlet is caught up in their age gap and when her starlet of an ex also returns, things get even more complicated.
To start everything about this story seemed very sweet, all an innocent crush shared between two women with broken hearts and complications from the past. Then, as if out of nowhere in true Hollywood style came a drama of an equal size. I adored Scarlet’s hesitance about their age gap because it didn’t stop her enjoying Eve’s company and building a friendship, it just made her wary. When we learned more about her and her past relationship that started making more and more sense.
As with all romances where a kid is involved Scarlet’s daughter was a catalyst for events and definitely helped to make sure they spent cute, and sometimes awkward moments together. She was quite the little character but did all she could to get her mother and Eve together and make sure they knew she approved. Those moments had me smiling and loving the idea of them building a life together. I really had to hope because with Eve’s broken heart, she deserved this happiness.
A really enjoyable romance that had me hopeful for a happy future for Eve and Scarlet.
April 5, 2025
“I want you, Scarlet Hunt,” Eve said with a faint smile. “To have you, I can’t play fair.”
2.5 stars. 2.75? This was cute, and I will always keep coming back to Fiona Zedde, but unfortunately this didn't really hit the spot for me. Age gap romance is one of my very favourite subgenres, and then you combine that with a single parent getting together with her daughter's teacher/tutor? So many things that I love, and I should have eaten this up. But something about the WAY things were written just didn't appeal to me? IDK.
But it did start out really well. Scarlet and her pre-teen daughter are fairly new to this small town, and when Scarlet goes to her first PTA meeting, she meets teacher Eve, who is bubbling, bright, with a big, obvious crush on Scarlet. Because of the 17 year age gap, and the fact that she soon starts giving Scarlet's daughter private tutoring, Scarlet is makes up her mind to ignore it, and her own attraction. But Eve is persistent, and determined to get what she wants. That was the cutest part of the book for me, especially in the earlier half. Just the way that Eve's crush and eventual deeper feelings develop. She indeed falls first, and she falls hard. There's something so sweet about how helplessly smitten she was with Scarlet, and I couldn't help but be charmed. I loved every moment where they guiltily flirted with each other, and even though I wish it had been more slow burn, it was so sexy that I couldn't really complain. There were some really cute scenes with Scarlet's daughter, Maya, and I think she was a really realistically written kid (with some notable exceptions). Any time all three of them were on page, I loved it; I was melting.
Some spoilers ahead.
It was just one of those death by a thousand cuts scenarios. In the beginning it looked like a solid 4, and now it's barely at a wobbly 2.5/3. Not bad; I still think this was cute! But I just know I could have liked it better. I won't go into all my little nitpicks; I just had too many of them to really love this like I wanted to. But like I said, I'll always come back to this author, because when her books do hit, they're really good.
June 16, 2025
This was fun to read, and the intimate scene was - make your grandmother blush hot. Beyond all that, it's more about two people with abandonment issues learn to trust again; with each other.
March 1, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
have to say i thoroughly enjoyed reading this one, kept me entertained and reading throughout the night
eve is a teacher and broke.... so she takes on jobs that help her income....
scarlett and her daughter maya have settled into town.... scarlett runs a yogo and pilates business very succesfully
her daughter needs help with some of her schooling so she takes on eve to help her
they already know each other as they have met at the pta meetings and have met up doing some of the activities
but trouble is brewing and its coming from both sides when scarletts ex breezes into town and one of eve ex isnt happy about what she is seeing between eve and scarlett....
watch out
what a book.... some hot spicy scenes and grief....what more could anyone want....
have to say i thoroughly enjoyed reading this one, kept me entertained and reading throughout the night
eve is a teacher and broke.... so she takes on jobs that help her income....
scarlett and her daughter maya have settled into town.... scarlett runs a yogo and pilates business very succesfully
her daughter needs help with some of her schooling so she takes on eve to help her
they already know each other as they have met at the pta meetings and have met up doing some of the activities
but trouble is brewing and its coming from both sides when scarletts ex breezes into town and one of eve ex isnt happy about what she is seeing between eve and scarlett....
watch out
what a book.... some hot spicy scenes and grief....what more could anyone want....
December 15, 2025
Actual Rating: 3.5 stars
I was willing this to be a better version of It’s Elementary, and outside of the mystery, I got my wish!!! Unlike Elise Bryant, Fiona Zedde is an author who actually has the chops for comedic fiction. From the old ladies in Hurston Cove auditioning to be Eve’s stepmom, to Nita as this novel’s laughingstock character (any Fiona Zedde book gives us one), I was chuckling from beginning to end. I particularly enjoyed Nita’s arc from evil ex to evil but incredibly silly ex to trifling but lovable member of the extended family! Good stuff, especially in a relatively short book.
Other things I appreciated: a romance novel that has people with kids/who meet through the kid KEEPING EVERYTHING APPROPRIATE around the child. No gratuitous PDA around minors, or in-school escapades just “hoping you won’t get caught”, thank you!!!! (Kennedy Ryan and A.H. Cunningham, please take some notes!!!!!!!) There is one climactic scene (NOT A PUN) where the daughter is witness to a fight about ex-relationship drama, but the characters quickly realize that this should not be discussed in front of her, and move to finish it later. I love when stuff like this is hadnled responsibly, it makes it easier to suspend disbelief!
My final thought here is that this book is another example of something people are discussing a lot online right now, like how terrified people are of surveillance and having their embarrassing moments recorded. This modern phenomenon is keeping too many of us from the earnestness and vulnerability needed to foster connection—romantic, platonic, you name it. This is another reason why I really appreciate authors like Fiona Zedde, who can help her characters break through those walls for some quality stories!!
I was willing this to be a better version of It’s Elementary, and outside of the mystery, I got my wish!!! Unlike Elise Bryant, Fiona Zedde is an author who actually has the chops for comedic fiction. From the old ladies in Hurston Cove auditioning to be Eve’s stepmom, to Nita as this novel’s laughingstock character (any Fiona Zedde book gives us one), I was chuckling from beginning to end. I particularly enjoyed Nita’s arc from evil ex to evil but incredibly silly ex to trifling but lovable member of the extended family! Good stuff, especially in a relatively short book.
Other things I appreciated: a romance novel that has people with kids/who meet through the kid KEEPING EVERYTHING APPROPRIATE around the child. No gratuitous PDA around minors, or in-school escapades just “hoping you won’t get caught”, thank you!!!! (Kennedy Ryan and A.H. Cunningham, please take some notes!!!!!!!) There is one climactic scene (NOT A PUN) where the daughter is witness to a fight about ex-relationship drama, but the characters quickly realize that this should not be discussed in front of her, and move to finish it later. I love when stuff like this is hadnled responsibly, it makes it easier to suspend disbelief!
My final thought here is that this book is another example of something people are discussing a lot online right now, like how terrified people are of surveillance and having their embarrassing moments recorded. This modern phenomenon is keeping too many of us from the earnestness and vulnerability needed to foster connection—romantic, platonic, you name it. This is another reason why I really appreciate authors like Fiona Zedde, who can help her characters break through those walls for some quality stories!!
March 4, 2025
This was a pretty cute romance book.
Scarlet is a yoga instructor and a single mom still dealing with her ex wife leaving her for a Hollywood career. Eve is a substitute teacher and part time influencer who's been harbouring a crush on Scarlet for months. She finally has a chance to make her move when Scarlet looks for a tutor for her daughter.
It's honestly an enjoyable story and a very quick and delightful read. Maya, Scarlet's tween daughter, is probably the most enjoyable character in the whole book but the main characters are not far behind. I think the main best friends of both Scarlet and Eve felt pretty similar to me but in the end they are just side characters and easy to ignore.
There was some limited angst but I thought it was well built up towards and made sense within the story. All in all it was a cute story.
Scarlet is a yoga instructor and a single mom still dealing with her ex wife leaving her for a Hollywood career. Eve is a substitute teacher and part time influencer who's been harbouring a crush on Scarlet for months. She finally has a chance to make her move when Scarlet looks for a tutor for her daughter.
It's honestly an enjoyable story and a very quick and delightful read. Maya, Scarlet's tween daughter, is probably the most enjoyable character in the whole book but the main characters are not far behind. I think the main best friends of both Scarlet and Eve felt pretty similar to me but in the end they are just side characters and easy to ignore.
There was some limited angst but I thought it was well built up towards and made sense within the story. All in all it was a cute story.
May 25, 2025
Hilariously fun and deliciously sweet! This light, hot for teacher, age gap will help you through the darkest of days.
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Things are finally going well for yoga teacher Scarlet. After being unceremoniously dumped by her Hollywood ex-wife, Scarlet and their daughter Maya build a new life together in the small town of Hurston Cove. When Maya needs a tutor to help her with school, substitute teacher Eve takes the job. She and Maya click right away. Scarlet on the other hand tries very hard not to notice the magnetic pull Eve has on her too…
Eve can’t believe her luck! The hottest mom from school hired her to tutor her daughter. Maya is super fun and really smart, but it is Scarlet who makes Eve’s heart (and loins) flutter! Scarlet obviously thinks Eve is way to young for her, but Eve proves her wrong every time. Will Eve finally find the person who will stay instead of leaving her behind?
Fiona Zedde writes some seriously funny stuff! The inner monologue that runs constantly through Scarlet’s mind is hilarious and the text conversation between her and her bff Mikayla had me snort-laughing too:
‘Can’t wait. Lobe you’
‘Frontal or occipital?’
‘F*** off. You know that was autocorrect.’
‘Lobe you too, sugar lump!’
The BFF’s in this story deserve their own spotlight, because Eve’s bestie Trish is seriously the best friend a girl could wish for. She is Eve’s rock and knows how to cheer her up. But most importantly she does not hold back to sugarcoat the truth either. Everyone would be lucky to have a Mikayla or a Trish in their life.
While the story isn’t super angsty it does handle some serious topics. Scarlet has had to work really hard to regain her confidence after her divorce and create a safe and strong home for Maya. When ex Nita comes back into her life she shows her true colors immediately and I was very proud of Scarlet when she didn’t show an ounce of interest in all that Hollywood swagger and charm.
Eve has to deal with her abandonment issues. Her mom dying when she was young and her dad leaving her right after high school to pursue a life without her. It’s hard not to expect being left behind again and again. I love that Scarlet sees that and does her best to break that cycle for Eve. Swoon!
Daughter Maya is a really well developed character. She doesn’t just appear to help the story along, she plays a significant role. As a mom it’s great to read storylines where the kid(s) isn’t just an afterthought. In this case Maya clearly is Scarlet’s number one priority, just like kids are in real life. (Or at least should be.)
Eve Falls First is a truly entertaining story and a testament to Zedde’s talent to write authentic and funny characters that feel so real you would want to be friends with them!
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Things are finally going well for yoga teacher Scarlet. After being unceremoniously dumped by her Hollywood ex-wife, Scarlet and their daughter Maya build a new life together in the small town of Hurston Cove. When Maya needs a tutor to help her with school, substitute teacher Eve takes the job. She and Maya click right away. Scarlet on the other hand tries very hard not to notice the magnetic pull Eve has on her too…
Eve can’t believe her luck! The hottest mom from school hired her to tutor her daughter. Maya is super fun and really smart, but it is Scarlet who makes Eve’s heart (and loins) flutter! Scarlet obviously thinks Eve is way to young for her, but Eve proves her wrong every time. Will Eve finally find the person who will stay instead of leaving her behind?
Fiona Zedde writes some seriously funny stuff! The inner monologue that runs constantly through Scarlet’s mind is hilarious and the text conversation between her and her bff Mikayla had me snort-laughing too:
‘Can’t wait. Lobe you’
‘Frontal or occipital?’
‘F*** off. You know that was autocorrect.’
‘Lobe you too, sugar lump!’
The BFF’s in this story deserve their own spotlight, because Eve’s bestie Trish is seriously the best friend a girl could wish for. She is Eve’s rock and knows how to cheer her up. But most importantly she does not hold back to sugarcoat the truth either. Everyone would be lucky to have a Mikayla or a Trish in their life.
While the story isn’t super angsty it does handle some serious topics. Scarlet has had to work really hard to regain her confidence after her divorce and create a safe and strong home for Maya. When ex Nita comes back into her life she shows her true colors immediately and I was very proud of Scarlet when she didn’t show an ounce of interest in all that Hollywood swagger and charm.
Eve has to deal with her abandonment issues. Her mom dying when she was young and her dad leaving her right after high school to pursue a life without her. It’s hard not to expect being left behind again and again. I love that Scarlet sees that and does her best to break that cycle for Eve. Swoon!
Daughter Maya is a really well developed character. She doesn’t just appear to help the story along, she plays a significant role. As a mom it’s great to read storylines where the kid(s) isn’t just an afterthought. In this case Maya clearly is Scarlet’s number one priority, just like kids are in real life. (Or at least should be.)
Eve Falls First is a truly entertaining story and a testament to Zedde’s talent to write authentic and funny characters that feel so real you would want to be friends with them!
June 18, 2025
I had so much fun with this book, it's really sweet and it has a ton of incredibly funny punch lines. Light and lovely.
June 20, 2025
Such a fantastic book! Scarlett and Eve are a match. Eve is a teacher in Maya's school and has a crush on Scarlett, Maya's mother. Scarlett has noticed the younger woman also. Eve is 24, Scarlett is 41. When Maya needs a math tutor, the school puts Scarlett in touch with Eve. And so it begins. This is a fun, light age gap, HOT love story! I love this book! 5 stars!
February 23, 2025
House of Agnes has long been my favorite by this author until now! Eve Falls First quickly tied for favorite.
Eve and Scarlet are so relatable and likeable that I easily fell into their story. The author smoothly addresses issues couples face regarding age gap and past experiences that are influencing the present. Scarlet’s daughter, Maya, adds a fun sweetness to the story and the side characters are just as engaging.
I enjoyed the flow of the story as it unfolded. This book has sweetness, playfulness, a bit of angst and sexy spice that moved the story along nicely. The third act (not really) break up was well done and made sense for the story. As always, I look forward to reading more from Fiona Zedde.
I received and arc of this book from NetGalley and Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Eve and Scarlet are so relatable and likeable that I easily fell into their story. The author smoothly addresses issues couples face regarding age gap and past experiences that are influencing the present. Scarlet’s daughter, Maya, adds a fun sweetness to the story and the side characters are just as engaging.
I enjoyed the flow of the story as it unfolded. This book has sweetness, playfulness, a bit of angst and sexy spice that moved the story along nicely. The third act (not really) break up was well done and made sense for the story. As always, I look forward to reading more from Fiona Zedde.
I received and arc of this book from NetGalley and Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
April 9, 2025
Like many Fiona Zedde fans, my favorite work of hers remains House of Agnes. I mean, I just can’t get enough of that controlled sexy drip Agnes gives. But I found myself reminiscent as the character Scarlet gives off a more subtle, organic, maybe even reserved version of that same vibe. Eve Falls First was a cozy, sweet read with just enough spice to keep my eyes on the page. Well, done Fiona, it’s another winner! Don’t take my word for it though… go see for yourself. 😊
February 23, 2025
Eve and Scarlet’s love story is SO sweet. I loved each main character, their backstories and details, and their strong friendships. Scarlet’s daughter was so precious. Fiona Zedde is always SO good every time.
This book is perfect for fans of age-gap romances, open communication, teacher-parent combos…and more.
This book is perfect for fans of age-gap romances, open communication, teacher-parent combos…and more.
March 26, 2025
Another Masterpiece
Joining all her other books, this book did not disappoint. A quirky, age-gap love story, it had everything. Love. Desire. Longing. Humor. Drama. I can’t wait to read it again and again!
Joining all her other books, this book did not disappoint. A quirky, age-gap love story, it had everything. Love. Desire. Longing. Humor. Drama. I can’t wait to read it again and again!
April 25, 2025
4.5*
Cute and well-paced with some serious ex drama.
Cute and well-paced with some serious ex drama.
December 15, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and the author for this arc!
Eve Falls First follows Eve and Scarlet, a teacher and yoga instructor who find themselves in close proximity when interacting at Scarlet daughter's school.
I loooooooved the will-they-won't-they and light-forbidden-love aspects of this! If you love cozy, cute sapphic reads with a sprinkle of spice, this is the book for you!
I think fans of Karmen Lee's peach blossom series would love this read so much!
Eve Falls First follows Eve and Scarlet, a teacher and yoga instructor who find themselves in close proximity when interacting at Scarlet daughter's school.
I loooooooved the will-they-won't-they and light-forbidden-love aspects of this! If you love cozy, cute sapphic reads with a sprinkle of spice, this is the book for you!
I think fans of Karmen Lee's peach blossom series would love this read so much!
February 24, 2025
Fiona Zedde brings the heat and the sweet in this one (4.5 stars)
If you're wanting an age gap, single parent story with easy to root for main characters who are relatable and fun to follow around, ride or die besties, meddling exes and one adorable child this one is so worth reading. If you love a main character who is awkward and overthinking when they're around their crush, or you have a thing for collarbones, this book meets those needs and gives you plenty of cuteness to coo and aww over, whether it's due to the adorable child or the mains getting together. It's very low angst with some drama but tons of chuckle worthy dialogue and shenanigans to keep you smiling as you read. For the scenes that scorch the pages of the book you may want to choose your reading location carefully and have some water or a fan nearby to help cool yourself down.
I laughed thru the book and fell hard for the small town where the story is set, along with most of the characters. The less likable characters are meant to be that way. I thought I knew ahead of time what would happen in the story's plot trajectory but there were some twists that proved me wrong, where things turned out better than I expected. Mains Eve and Scarlet read like real people rather than idealized characters; chapters are told alternately from their POV's so you get the different perspectives on certain scenes. Keep that in mind if you tend to only read a chapter at a time. This is great reading material to get lost in for a few hours or over a weekend if you're stuck indoors due to weather or some other reason. I've read several stories by Fiona Zedde before this one and appreciate her storytelling ability. Also in this story it's a nice touch to have a pair of characters handwrite and physically mail letters to each other in addition to texting and talking on the phone. The relationships between mains and their besties are the kind you'd want in your real life where their friendship is solid, no bs, tell it like it is and are there for each other in meaningful ways, without keeping score.
If you need a break from real life drama and stress give this book a read and check out Zedde's other writing as well. I look forward to reading whatever she publishes next, be it short story or full length novel.
If you're wanting an age gap, single parent story with easy to root for main characters who are relatable and fun to follow around, ride or die besties, meddling exes and one adorable child this one is so worth reading. If you love a main character who is awkward and overthinking when they're around their crush, or you have a thing for collarbones, this book meets those needs and gives you plenty of cuteness to coo and aww over, whether it's due to the adorable child or the mains getting together. It's very low angst with some drama but tons of chuckle worthy dialogue and shenanigans to keep you smiling as you read. For the scenes that scorch the pages of the book you may want to choose your reading location carefully and have some water or a fan nearby to help cool yourself down.
I laughed thru the book and fell hard for the small town where the story is set, along with most of the characters. The less likable characters are meant to be that way. I thought I knew ahead of time what would happen in the story's plot trajectory but there were some twists that proved me wrong, where things turned out better than I expected. Mains Eve and Scarlet read like real people rather than idealized characters; chapters are told alternately from their POV's so you get the different perspectives on certain scenes. Keep that in mind if you tend to only read a chapter at a time. This is great reading material to get lost in for a few hours or over a weekend if you're stuck indoors due to weather or some other reason. I've read several stories by Fiona Zedde before this one and appreciate her storytelling ability. Also in this story it's a nice touch to have a pair of characters handwrite and physically mail letters to each other in addition to texting and talking on the phone. The relationships between mains and their besties are the kind you'd want in your real life where their friendship is solid, no bs, tell it like it is and are there for each other in meaningful ways, without keeping score.
If you need a break from real life drama and stress give this book a read and check out Zedde's other writing as well. I look forward to reading whatever she publishes next, be it short story or full length novel.
February 27, 2025
Eve Marshall is 24 and teaches at the middle school in her home town. Scarlet Hunt (41) teaches pilates and yoga while raising her daughter Maya. When Maya needs help with math Scarlet hires Eve for weekly tutoring sessions. Attraction sparks are flying but Scarlet is concerned about the large age gap. But of course that isn’t going to keep them apart.
Eve is a nice mix of loneliness and bold flirtation. Scarlet is a caring mother and good friend. I like that both are adult enough to talk to one another. But that doesn’t mean there are not misunderstandings. A couple of things felt clunky to me. Why did Scarlet’s ex bring a famous ballerina to town? It adds nothing to the story. And how did the ex come by the information that causes complications? I actually searched back a page or two to see if I missed something in my reading. . I didn’t quite understand Eve’s concern about her job and finances either but I live in an area with teacher shortages. If you get hired by a school you’re golden unless there is some misconduct. And her father left her a house that I am guessing was paid off. Maybe I made some wrong assumptions.
Other than my few comments I enjoyed this age gap romance. The main characters are likable, including their friends and Maya. I’ve only read one previous book by the author which was in a different genre, so it is hard to compare to this lighter romance. Thank you to NetGalley and Ylva Publishing for the ARC and I am leaving an honest review.
Eve is a nice mix of loneliness and bold flirtation. Scarlet is a caring mother and good friend. I like that both are adult enough to talk to one another. But that doesn’t mean there are not misunderstandings. A couple of things felt clunky to me. Why did Scarlet’s ex bring a famous ballerina to town? It adds nothing to the story. And how did the ex come by the information that causes complications? I actually searched back a page or two to see if I missed something in my reading. . I didn’t quite understand Eve’s concern about her job and finances either but I live in an area with teacher shortages. If you get hired by a school you’re golden unless there is some misconduct. And her father left her a house that I am guessing was paid off. Maybe I made some wrong assumptions.
Other than my few comments I enjoyed this age gap romance. The main characters are likable, including their friends and Maya. I’ve only read one previous book by the author which was in a different genre, so it is hard to compare to this lighter romance. Thank you to NetGalley and Ylva Publishing for the ARC and I am leaving an honest review.
March 1, 2025
In Eve Falls First Fiona Zedde delivers a wonderful mix of sexiness, fun and mild angst as she weaves the story of teacher, Eve (24) and yoga instructor Scarlett (41) as they catch all the feelings despite their respective histories and baggage and a double dose of abandonment issues to be overcome. Alongside these two wonderful MCs we meet a wide range of quirky, characters including Scarlett's absolutely charming daughter, Maya and a couple of scheming exes.
Between Scarlett's ex, Nita suddenly reappearing wanting to play happy families in order to improve her reputation in Hollywood and the nasty piece of work that is Eve's former lover still hanging around and wanting to break up the budding relationship between the two MCs it isn't long before secrets are revealed and tensions boil over. The question is whether Eve and Scarlett can let go of their fears and to learn to trust each other before everything goes up in flames.
Although this is not necessarily one of those stories that would end up on my multiple re-read list, I definitely enjoyed it as a whole. It should appeal to anyone who enjoys a relatively light-hearted (albeit with a small dose of angst) age-gap romance. Fiona Zedde is one author who I have followed for a while and I will continue to look out for future releases coming from her.
I am grateful to NetGalley, Ylva Publishing and the author for providing me with an honest review.
Between Scarlett's ex, Nita suddenly reappearing wanting to play happy families in order to improve her reputation in Hollywood and the nasty piece of work that is Eve's former lover still hanging around and wanting to break up the budding relationship between the two MCs it isn't long before secrets are revealed and tensions boil over. The question is whether Eve and Scarlett can let go of their fears and to learn to trust each other before everything goes up in flames.
Although this is not necessarily one of those stories that would end up on my multiple re-read list, I definitely enjoyed it as a whole. It should appeal to anyone who enjoys a relatively light-hearted (albeit with a small dose of angst) age-gap romance. Fiona Zedde is one author who I have followed for a while and I will continue to look out for future releases coming from her.
I am grateful to NetGalley, Ylva Publishing and the author for providing me with an honest review.
November 4, 2025
Stars: 4 Stars
Format: Digital
Series: Stand Alone
Steam Level: Steamy
I am greatly enjoying Fiona Zedde’s books. It’s only the fact I have a bunch of other books to read that is stopping me from just tearing through her backlist. So far. Not sure how long I’ll be able to hold out.
Quick Thoughts:
- Age Gap and Single Parent! Woohoo!
- I love the way Fiona Zedde writes characters and I enjoy getting to know them as individuals
- The sexual tension between Eve and Scarlet was smoking hot. I fully believed that despite Scarlet’s reservations that she just couldn’t stay away from Eve
- I love that this romance is between two adults that work on communicating effectively with each other
- Also sexy times were really sexy. Whew
- Abbi can go jump off a cliff
- This book’s third act break up not only made sense, but felt like it had to happen to clear up the misunderstandings/secrets
- The reason I knocked off a star is that I felt like the book needed a bit more story (besides the epilogue) after the break up to see them both all in and how that played out
- Loved the epilogue. It wrapped things up nicely and in a very believable way
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I’m very happy to have more books to read by this author. Fiona Zedde is quickly becoming part of the list of authors who I just automatically buy everything they write without finding out what it’s about first.
Format: Digital
Series: Stand Alone
Steam Level: Steamy
I am greatly enjoying Fiona Zedde’s books. It’s only the fact I have a bunch of other books to read that is stopping me from just tearing through her backlist. So far. Not sure how long I’ll be able to hold out.
Quick Thoughts:
- Age Gap and Single Parent! Woohoo!
- I love the way Fiona Zedde writes characters and I enjoy getting to know them as individuals
- The sexual tension between Eve and Scarlet was smoking hot. I fully believed that despite Scarlet’s reservations that she just couldn’t stay away from Eve
- I love that this romance is between two adults that work on communicating effectively with each other
- Also sexy times were really sexy. Whew
- Abbi can go jump off a cliff
- This book’s third act break up not only made sense, but felt like it had to happen to clear up the misunderstandings/secrets
- The reason I knocked off a star is that I felt like the book needed a bit more story (besides the epilogue) after the break up to see them both all in and how that played out
- Loved the epilogue. It wrapped things up nicely and in a very believable way
Overall I really enjoyed this book and I’m very happy to have more books to read by this author. Fiona Zedde is quickly becoming part of the list of authors who I just automatically buy everything they write without finding out what it’s about first.
February 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this book.
This is the story of Scarlet and Eve.
Scarlet is new in town with her daughter Maya. Her ex Nita, ended their relationship when Maya was a baby to try to make it in Hollywood but is now trying to spend time with them to give herself a family image.
Eve is a substitute teacher who is struggling to get people to take her seriously. She is young and struggling to make ends meet when she gets some tutoring work with Maya. This is good news for Eve - not only can she now afford to eat but she was already looking for a way to get to know Scarlet.
Of course where people are concerned nothing goes smoothly, unless it is a building going up in flames!
There is of course an epilogue.
This is set 10 months later than the main story and shows them getting on with life together.
So we have an age gap romance with a side serving of celebrity, with both having abandonment issues. The romance has a sub plot of mystery and intrigue.
I recommend it.
I received an arc of this book from NetGalley and Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of Scarlet and Eve.
Scarlet is new in town with her daughter Maya. Her ex Nita, ended their relationship when Maya was a baby to try to make it in Hollywood but is now trying to spend time with them to give herself a family image.
Eve is a substitute teacher who is struggling to get people to take her seriously. She is young and struggling to make ends meet when she gets some tutoring work with Maya. This is good news for Eve - not only can she now afford to eat but she was already looking for a way to get to know Scarlet.
Of course where people are concerned nothing goes smoothly, unless it is a building going up in flames!
There is of course an epilogue.
This is set 10 months later than the main story and shows them getting on with life together.
So we have an age gap romance with a side serving of celebrity, with both having abandonment issues. The romance has a sub plot of mystery and intrigue.
I recommend it.
I received an arc of this book from NetGalley and Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
November 19, 2025
I'd give this a 3.5.
I loved the characters, and the story was a lot of fun. I appreciated the dual points of view so that the reader can get both sides of the scenes, but it sometimes felt rushed. I actually wished this book was longer so that we could get to know the characters even more. I even loved Scarlet and Eve's best friends; they definitely added to the overall story.
I loved the characters, and the story was a lot of fun. I appreciated the dual points of view so that the reader can get both sides of the scenes, but it sometimes felt rushed. I actually wished this book was longer so that we could get to know the characters even more. I even loved Scarlet and Eve's best friends; they definitely added to the overall story.
July 19, 2025
Ok, technically 4.5 stars and I love it 🥹 very cute, good 🌶️ moments and even though the end is a bit fast/there is A LOT going on (it felt a but all of the sudden), it is a very good book with a cute couple!!!
June 22, 2025
Never really got over the age difference and mixed up with an ex, a Hollywood star, who was mother to their daughter…. I don’t know, too much going on, or not enough. Didn’t hook me.
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