Always Meant For You

by Kristen Vail

Cash Hartnell: Football star. World-class flirt. And my best friend’s brother.

Some girls might like the attention that comes with being the new face at Shafer University. Me? I prefer to fade into the background. I’m only here to handle my aunt’s estate and close the book on a long, painful chapter of my life.

I wasn't even thinking about men until Cash and I locked eyes across a crowded bar. I didn't care about football until I saw the way his tattooed body fills out a jersey. I never understood the meaning of 'temptation' until his strictly off-limits lips whispered into my ear.

His only flaws? Being my best friend's brother—and chasing me despite her strict warning.
Like when he offers to help renovate the house I just inherited, and I find myself working alongside his cut biceps in a big, empty house all winter long.

See, the thing about Cash?
He always wins.

Even if it means breaking the rules, passing secret notes in class, and crashing my date with another man just to make sure the world knows who I belong to.

And after one forbidden kiss? I'm ready to break some rules of my own.

Always Meant For You is an interconnected standalone romance and can be enjoyed even if you haven't read the other books in the Shafer U series!

Genres: Sports Romance, Found Family, Romance, College, Football, He Falls First

432 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 30, 2026

About the author

Welcome!
I write spicy romances with realistic characters and plenty of delicious tension.
I live in the Midwest with my husband, kids and rescue pup.
When I'm not writing, you can find me in the garden (give me all the dahlias
and peonies!), cooking (pasta for the win) or planning my next hike.

Instagram: @kristenvailbooks
TikTok: @kristenvailbooks

Reviews

[Sim-fully Ever After · Rating 4 out of 5]

4🌟, 3🌶️

This romance had the lovely balance of sweetness, emotion, and heartfelt moments.

Cash and Georgia completely won me over. Their relationship had such a sweet, genuine feel to it, and I loved how easy it was to root for them. Their journey brought out all the emotions, from the excitement of falling in love to the challenges of finding their way back to each other.

Cash was such a fun hero to read about. Seeing his playboy reputation disappear the moment he met Georgia was adorable, and his devoted, caring side made him incredibly charming. Georgia was a wonderful FMC, and I loved watching her grow, open up, and find happiness. Their chemistry was undeniable, even though their communication struggles showed that they still had room to grow together.

This was my first book in the series, but I never felt lost and I’m excited to explore the earlier stories.

Overall, this was a sweet, emotional romance with a lovable couple, strong friendships, and plenty of heart.

~~~~

Huge thank you to Kristen Vail and The Author Agency for the ARC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨

[Kayla Otahal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Georgia and Cash’s love story. I’m a true believer in love at first sight and I was totally hooked leaning into those feelings. I thought Maisy was going to be my favorite character but as the book progressed I found myself relating and drawn more to Georgia. I love that she was able to find all the things she didn’t know she was missing in life.

[Tay✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚❤️‍🔥 ALWAYS MEANT FOR YOU — 4⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️

An absolute honour to have this as my very first ARC 😍 - Kristen Vail I thank you ❤️‍🔥

Okay but CASH. 😮‍💨

There is something about a former playboy falling ridiculously, hopelessly and completely DOWN BAD for one woman that will never not have me entertained. 😂

Cash Hartnell really said “I don’t do relationships” and then saw Georgia and immediately forgot every rule he had ever made. Sir… you are not slick. 😂

Georgia comes back to Shafer for her final semester expecting to finish college, renovate her late aunt’s house and eventually go back to the life she had planned.

Instead, she gets Cash.

And honestly? Thank god. 😂

Cash is a football star, professional flirt, ridiculously charming and apparently destined to become the world’s best cat daddy. 🐈‍⬛❤️

But underneath all that confidence, I LOVED seeing the softer side of him with Georgia. He wasn’t just attracted to her — this man was GONE. The yearning? The effort? The way he constantly found an excuse to be around her? Sir, get a grip. 😮‍💨

Except Georgia is trying very hard to follow Maisey’s absolutely no friends hooking up with my brother rule.

Did she succeed?

Absolutely fucking not. 😂

And honestly, I was rooting for her failure from the beginning.

Their chemistry was 🔥🔥🔥 and their relationship had that perfect mix of sweet, emotional and spicy. I especially loved that beneath all the flirting and sexual tension, there was something genuinely soft between them.

Georgia is dealing with grief, figuring out what she actually wants for her future and slowly learning how to let someone in again. And Cash? He was exactly the person she needed.

Was their communication perfect? Absolutely not. 😂
Did they make some questionable decisions? Obviously.
Did I care? Not even a little bit.

And THAT grand gesture. 🥹

CASH. SIR.
You had me at yearning and cat-dad energy, but you really didn’t need to go THAT hard. 😭❤️‍🔥

I also really enjoyed the family dynamics and Cash and Maisey’s relationship. The sibling banter and their history added so much to the story.

My only complaint? I definitely wanted more from Maisey’s storyline. I felt like there was so much potential there and I would’ve loved to see it explored a little deeper.

But Cash + Georgia?

Yeah… they absolutely had me. 🥹🫶🏼

Sweet. Sexy. Emotional. Funny. A little chaotic. And a man who falls first and falls HARD?

5/5 ⭐️

Would I recommend it?
Absolutely.

Would I now be going back to read the rest of the Shafer U books because apparently I need to know everyone’s business?

Also absolutely. 😂📚

[Rai Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me giddy the entire time. The shameless flirting, the stolen glances, and the chemistry…10/10.

It’s an honour that this was my first ever ARC!

The joy I felt when reading this book. It was a quick read for me, because I was instantly drawn in! I love a book that’s hard to put down. I also love Kristen Vail’s realistic depiction of relationships, whether it be romantic, familial, or friendships. She really portrays how doubts or insecurities can hinder the development of a relationship.

“Always Meant for You” is the fourth in the Shafer U series, and you can read them as stand-alone even though they’re all interconnected. I haven’t read the first three books, but I wish I had. Skipping them didn’t take away from the fourth book, but I do think it would add to the overall experience. I’ll now be going back to read the beginning of this series ASAP!

[Marsha Graniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always Meant For You is a college sports romance with a best friend's brother and unexpected crushes. This is Georgia and Cash's story filled with secret dating and family surprises. Georgia inherited her great-aunt's house and is planning on selling it, but her best friend Maisy's twin brother, Cash, convinced her that he can help her fix it up. I love the instant connection they have and how she secretly had a crush on him when they were younger. I also love how he falls first and hard, but complications with his sister saying her friends are off-limits, which makes it difficult for them to be open. Their story will take you on a roller coaster of emotions, from the angst of college life and family responsibility to being wanted and supported. I love how, through all the complications, they were able to resolve conflicts with friends and family but also with themselves. I really enjoyed their story and can't wait to read more.

I voluntarily leave my honest thoughts about this gifted advance readers copy.

[Colie Ellingson · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I really enjoyed Always Meant for You! Cash and Georgia completely stole my heart, and their chemistry was everything. There was something about their relationship that felt so real to me, especially because their story reminded me of my relationship with my now-husband when we first started dating. That personal connection made me even more emotionally invested in their journey.

I felt their heartbreak, rooted for them through every twist and turn, and celebrated right alongside them when they finally found their way back to each other. Their story had me feeling all the emotions, and I loved experiencing their journey.

This was actually my first book in the series, but it definitely won’t be my last! I didn’t feel lost coming into the series here, and now I’m excited to loop back and read the other books and get to know the characters whose stories came before Cash and Georgia.

I’m so glad I had the chance to read this one as an ARC!

[Nena Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet love story. I loved the twists and turns and how they came back together thru their heartache. Such a love felt book. It was well written with amazing characters who felt and loved deeply. I camt recommend this book enough to people, everyone should get a copy and read this

[autwenreads · Rating 1 out of 5]

My first time reading Kristen Vail, and sadly this one wasn't for me.

The writing was fine, but I never connected with the story. I just didn't enjoy the plot, and I couldn't bring myself to care about what was happening in Cash and Georgia's lives.

It's not that they were bad characters. I was just completely indifferent to them, and without that emotional connection, I had no motivation to keep reading. Unfortunately, this ended up being a DNF @35% for me.

Thank you The Author Agency and Kristen Vail for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Susanna · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF 20% I'm sorry, I really tried to keep going, but I just wasn't enjoying this book pretty much from the very beginning!
The chapters were looong, the dialogue was boriiing, and Cash did absolutely nothing for me.
And honestly? What an unrealistic guy. I just couldn't get into it.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so sweet. The way Cash literally is obsessed with Georgia is incredible. Resident playboy, sweet talker and charmer of the football team, took one look at her and fell. Georgia was a childhood family friend, and a camp roommate of Cash’s twin sister. She was adjusting to inheriting her aunts house and her senior yr of college. While renovating the house with Cash’s family business’s assistance their relationship blossomed. Through drama, and issues, trust and determination. They found their HEA. It was a sweet book.

[Jenna Lundberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

🏈💌 He Fell First and Never Stood a Chance 💌🏈
⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️

There is something ridiculously fun about watching a former playboy take one look at a woman and immediately become a lovesick puppy, and Cash Hartnell understood the assignment. 😍

Always Meant For You was my first visit to the Shafer U world, and while this interconnected standalone can absolutely be read on its own, there were definitely moments that made me curious about the characters and relationships established in the earlier books. Needless to say, I'll be going back!

Georgia returns to Shafer for her final semester of college under circumstances she never expected. She had planned to live with and care for her ailing aunt, but after her aunt passes away before Georgia arrives, she's left grieving while also inheriting her house. Her plan seems simple enough. Finish school, renovate the house, sell it, and eventually return to the life she left behind.

Then she moves in with her old friend Maisey and meets Maisey's twin brother again.

Cash. 🏈

Football star. Former playboy. World-class flirt. Future cat daddy extraordinaire. 🐈

And completely, hopelessly DOWN BAD for Georgia.

Cash sees Georgia across a crowded bar and is basically done for before he even realizes they knew each other as kids. I absolutely loved how quickly his playboy personality disappeared once Georgia caught his attention. This man doesn't casually like her. He yearns. He pursues. He finds excuses to be around her. He helps renovate her house. And despite his twin sister's very clear rule that her friends and brother are OFF LIMITS to one another, Cash has absolutely no intention of staying away.

Georgia genuinely tries to respect Maisey's rule.

She fails spectacularly. 😂

And thank goodness she does because Cash and Georgia were easily my favorite part of this story.

Their relationship has such a sweet quality underneath all the forbidden tension and heat. Cash may have a reputation as the charming football player, but Georgia brings out this incredibly devoted, caring side of him. I loved watching her slowly open herself to him while also navigating grief, school, the house, and questions about what she actually wants her future to look like.

Their chemistry was also 🔥🔥🔥.

But what made their relationship interesting was that being crazy about each other didn't automatically mean they knew how to build a relationship. They fall hard and fast, but they aren't always communicating about the things that actually matter.

And surprisingly, that's why the third-act breakup worked for me.

I'm normally not the biggest fan of this trope, but here it made sense. Their relationship had developed so quickly that the cracks in their communication were already there. The breakup forced them to confront what they'd avoided discussing and gave Cash the opportunity to prove that loving Georgia meant more than simply wanting her.

And then THAT GRAND GESTURE. 🥹

Cash, sir.

You already had me with the yearning and the cat-dad status. You did not need to go that hard.

I also enjoyed Cash and Maisey's sibling relationship and the larger family dynamic, especially as both twins are approaching graduation and facing futures that aren't necessarily the ones they would have chosen for themselves.

The one area where I wanted more was Maisey's mental health storyline. I appreciated that the subject was approached with care and wasn't overly dramatized, but I didn't feel there was enough development leading into it. It felt like an important storyline that needed more space and depth to have the emotional impact it was clearly capable of delivering. That also affected how fully invested I became in some of the secondary characters and surrounding story.

Cash and Georgia, though? 5/5 relationship for me. 🫶

They were sweet, sexy, emotional, and so easy to root for. Georgia needed someone who could make her feel safe enough to open up again, and beneath Cash's flirting and confidence was a man capable of loving her with his whole heart.

And Cash going from resident playboy to completely obsessed with one woman?

Apparently that's my weakness.

Always Meant For You gave me forbidden romance, best friend's brother, college football, renovation forced proximity, secret feelings, a shy heroine finding her footing, a hero who falls first AND harder, three-chili-pepper chemistry, and one seriously swoon-worthy grand gesture.

Oh, and a football player who's a cat daddy.

Because apparently Cash wasn't content with simply being charming. 🐈🏈💛

Thank you to Kristen Vail for the gifted advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Melanie Gates · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, thank you for the opportunity to enjoy this ARC. I had not read the rest of the Shafer U series, but I will be sure to go back and enjoy.

Please note that while (clearly) you don't need to read the previous books in this interconnected series, I am certain it would explain some questions you may have while reading.

The story between Cash and Georgia is super sweet. A downbad, previous playboy who falls head over heels immediately and yearns like a lovesick puppy... so sweet. And he's also a cat daddy? Oh yeah.

Cash and his twin sister, Maisey, are working through their last semester of college while preparing for a future they're reluctant to -- continuing the family business. It's always been the plan, but that doesn't mean they really want to do it.

Georiga is Maisey's new roommate, moving back to town and enrolling in college at Shafer to complete her last semester -- she was planning to live with her aunt, in her aunt's house to take care of her as she was ailing, but her aunt passed away just before she was set to move. Instead, she calls up her old friend (Maisey)... she's going to live with her while fixing up the house she's been willed and sell it before returning back to her previous life.

Cash, the playboy Shafer U football star, who wants to be drafted to the NFL but is dedicated to his family sees Georgia from across the bar and is instantly in love and downbad for her; not knowing that he did know her when they were kids until later in the book. Maisey has rules for life - don't date my brother (for her friends) and don't date my friends (for her brother). Cash ignores this and pursues Georgia while Georgia is trying to hold up her end of the bargain for her friend.

She fails.

While I'm not usually a fan of a 3rd act breakup, this one made sense to me. As quickly as their relationship bloomed, there were pretty clear and obvious communication issues between the two of them. While they were hot and heavy and head over heels for each other, they didn't truly communicate. However, this breakup allows for the grand gesture of a lifetime and makes you want to swoooooon over Cash that little bit more.

What leads me to this rating?
4/5 characters (primary and secondary)
4/5 story
4/5 depicting difficult topics (mental health)
5/5 relationship between FMC & MMC

For the top three in this list, this all relates to the way that Maisey's mental health was handled. While it was handled with care and not overdone, there wasn't much built up behind it. I felt more like an add-in for sustenance but didn't get the sustenance I wanted.

TL:DR
⭐️ 4/5
👯‍♀️ BFFs brother
📚 College romance
🏈 Football star MMC
🫣 Shy FMC
❌ Forbidden romance
🐈 Cat daddy
✅ Third act breakup
🫶 HEA
🌶️ 2/5

[Joanne Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ Not Done Yet ⭐️

“Always Meant For You” is the fourth and final book in the “Shafer U Series” - it is sad to say goodbye to the boys and girls at Shafer University. Georgia Grant returns to Shafer for her final semester of college….her plan is to finish school, renovate the house, left to her by her Aunt, to sell it and move back to the life she left behind. In the meantime, she moves in with Maisey, a friend from her home town. Cash Hartnell….football star….world-class flirt….on top of that, he is also her best friend’s twin brother. When spots Georgia at a party, he is immediately captivated by her….That’s my girl. “Sparkling blue eyes, sleek black hair spilling over her left shoulder, soft glossy lips still holding on to a whisper of the smile I put on them….”

Cash’s twin sister Maisey has a rule….her friends cannot date her brother. If they do, they are no longer friends. What will happen when she finds out that Georgia and Cash are together? Will she accept it when she sees how serious they are, that are planning a future together….

This book is everything you expect from a sports romance with a touch of alpha male thrown in. I’m very happily hooked on this series - I did not want it to end! Once I started reading, I could not put this book down! At times you will laugh, you will cry, get angry and frustrated - most of all, you will love the twists! This book will charm “the pants off you” and leave you going back for more. It has fun, laughs, intrigue, twists that you do not expect, and physical attraction. You cannot help but fall in love with Cash and Georgia, hoping that everything will work out for them. I know I did….

“Soft and slow and powerful enough to silence every sound that pulses in the room, he kisses me like he owns me. Like I’m his. And I kiss him back with the same certainty. The expert, unhurried caress of his tongue and the gentle, possessive pressure of his fingers on my cheeks engulf my senses. Scent, taste, and touch collide and crisscross brilliantly. This kiss. He’s perfect. This moment is perfect. And I can only surrender….”

I loved this book from the first chapter. This is a lovely feel good emotional romance. From page to page, chapter to chapter, from cover to cover - you will enjoy this beautiful story. This book will not disappoint!

[Tress · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Always Meant for You really said, “Being obsessed with her is easy. Being the man she can depend on means learning to stop dropping the damn ball.”

Georgia transfers to Shafer U for her final semester and moves in with her childhood friend Maisy. Everything changes when Maisy’s twin brother sees Georgia across a crowded bar and decides she is the woman he wants.

Cash is my favourite kind of golden retriever MMC. Confident, relentlessly flirty and instantly obsessed. He loves loudly and accepts quiet, independent Georgia exactly as she is.

Georgia has spent most of her life relying on herself out of necessity. I loved her compassion and maturity, even when they led her to give Cash more grace than he deserved. I respected her even more when she finally recognised she was accepting too little and chose to protect her own heart.

The first half wrapped me in the comfort of Cash’s certainty, only for the second half to become a reverse slow burn that forced me to sit in discomfort. Cash loves Georgia fiercely, but his relationship inexperience and complicated bond with his twin expose the difference between promising to show up and actually being someone she can depend on.

I was hella frustrated with him, but I appreciated that Kristen Vail allowed her golden retriever to be flawed and believably college-aged. Cash knows exactly who he wants, but he still has to learn what being a committed partner requires. The emotional highs were delicious, the lows had me feeling personally betrayed and the chemistry between Cash and Georgia was sizzling.

Thankfully, the meaningful grovel and satisfying ending made the emotional roller-coaster worth riding.

Tropes:

🏈 College football
💕 Best friend’s brother
🤫 Secret relationship
⚡ Instant connection
💘 He falls first
🐕 Golden retriever MMC
😏 Quiet girl × confident flirt
🧸 Childhood connection
🐈 Cat daddy

Thank you to Kristen Vail and the team for providing me with an ARC. All thoughts are my own.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't stop thinking about these two. I've even gone back and reread some of my favorite parts.

I absolutely loved everything about this book. It had undeniable chemistry, a love-at-first-sight romance, and a protective MMC who completely stole my heart.

My heart broke for Georgia. She hasn't had an easy life, and I found myself rooting for her from the very beginning. Watching her grow from someone who hid in the background and constantly put others first into someone who learned to stand up for herself was incredibly rewarding.

Cash was protective, fierce, and loyal, but he also had such a sweet, caring side. While his first instinct was always to protect the people he loved, I appreciated watching him realize that he didn't have to carry everyone else's burdens on his shoulders.

The book also tackled mental health in a thoughtful and respectful way. This topic was handled with care and added depth to both the characters and their relationship.

I'm not usually a fan of third-act breakups, but it worked here. Cash and Georgia's chemistry was undeniable, and while their relationship moved quickly, it also had real challenges. Their struggles with communication, along with Cash's overprotective nature, made the separation feel meaningful rather than forced. By the time they found their way back to each other, they had both grown as
individuals, making their reunion even more satisfying.

This isn't a football-heavy romance, and there's less spice than many books in the genre, but I never felt like anything was missing. I was completely invested in Cash and Georgia's journey and found myself wanting to knock some sense into both of them so they'd finally get back together.

Even though this was my first book in the series, I had no trouble following along. I loved getting introduced to these characters and found myself wanting to learn more about the rest of the group. I'm excited to continue the series and see where the next stories take me.

[Built for Bookish (Brittney Burroughs) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okayyyy, Cash and Georgia completely won me over.
This book had me giddy from the beginning. The shameless flirting, stolen glances, undeniable chemistry, and all those little moments that make you want to kick your feet and giggle?! YES.
Cash is such a fun hero. Watching his whole playboy reputation disappear the second Georgia catches his attention was honestly adorable. He’s confident and flirty, but underneath all of that, he has this incredibly devoted, caring side that made me love him even more.
And Georgia?! I adored her. Watching her navigate her new life, her insecurities, and everything she’s trying to figure out while falling for the one guy she probably shouldn’t be falling for made their relationship feel so genuine. Their chemistry was, but I especially loved the sweetness and emotion woven through their story.
There was such a lovely balance of romance, humor, emotion, friendship, and heart. Their journey wasn’t completely effortless either, and I actually appreciated that. The communication struggles and insecurities gave them room to grow and made their relationship feel much more real.

Also… best friend’s brother trope + forbidden romance + football star + renovating a house together?! Ma’am. What more could a girl possibly need?
This is the fourth book in the Shafer U series, but it works perfectly well as a standalone. I went in without reading the previous books and never felt lost—which is honestly dangerous because now I need to go back and read the rest of the series.
Overall, this was such a sweet, swoony, feel-good romance with a lovable couple, strong friendships, plenty of flirting, and just enough angst to keep me turning the pages.
Cash + Georgia = absolutely adorable.
If you love college romance, forbidden/best-friend’s-brother vibes, shameless flirting, and a hero who falls HARD, definitely put Always Meant for You on your TBR.

4.5/5 ⭐️ | 3/5 🌶️
Now excuse me while I go investigate the rest of the Shafer U boys…

[Wendy Minore · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I would like to give a huge shoutout to the author for sending me an ARC of this. What a wonderful opportunity!!

I legitimately could not put this book down from page 1. I was caught, hook line and sinker and I have no regrets.

Maisy and Cash are twins, and polar opposites but still manage to be best friends. This is absolutely a selling point to me because I love when people are friends with their siblings, and even a little bit protective of them. It’s fun to see something like that represented in books, BUT it is just as nice to see those same siblings call each other out on their bs when it’s necessary (which definitely happened a few times).

The second that Cash sees Georgia he decides that this is the girl for him. He calls her Darling, he calls her his future wife, he dotes on her. We love a committed man. Also he’s a cat dad, which is like epically drool worthy. Especially when he’s a reluctant cat dad? Obsessed.

Georgia and Maisy are best friends and roommates, which obviously causes some issues on the CashxGeorgia front but I loved how it was handled. All of the emotions felt real and it didn’t feel like anyone just gave up on the fight or lost their personality in order to roll over and accept it. I also think that the emotions were handled well later, no spoilers, but let me tell you, emotions are going to be all over.

It also felt like everyone stuck to their personality. We could see where issues would come up from the beginning, and so nothing felt like a stupid miscommunication or a random issue just thrown in.

I think the only thing I didn’t like was the way that Maisy’s mental health was treated, and that was just more of, it felt like the author didn’t want to portray it incorrectly and so made a lot of it happen off screen. I respect, I get it, it felt a little weird.

Overall, WONDERFUL BOOK!

[Victoria Clarke · Rating 3 out of 5]

★★★☆☆ 3/5

This was the story of Georgia and Cash and although Cash plays football I wouldn’t really call it a sports romance because it’s after the season is over so you don’t actually see any football. You see more of him doing construction/handyman work (love) than him playing football. I love when a guy can fix things so I did like that aspect of Cash.

Poor Georgia has really gone through it in her life and kind of continued to go through it in this book. I enjoyed how Cash helped bring her out of her shell and I like the friendships she made with all the girls. Her family was kind of weird lol, after hearing the whole backstory I still find it weird how they all acted around her. Georgia was definitely the best part of the book though (except for maybe Mr. Jangles). Loved her.

It was mentioned at the beginning how Georgia really enjoys doing makeup and fun looks and stuff and it’s mentioned several times that Cash likes to look pretty and dress pretty so I wish we would’ve seen more of that aspect of the two of them. Like I wish he bought her a fancy new eyeshadow palette or a few lipsticks or something but after that first mention it’s kind of brushed aside.

Cash was… not my favorite. He said all the right things and was obsessed from the start (VERY insta-love) but didn’t put his money where his mouth was. I do wish at the end after his change of heart and everything I wish we could’ve seen him put Georgia first over his sister. It’s tough to believe him when he already made the same mistake twice. He seemed very love-bomby and then seemed to pull back like crazy once he had her. Also I just don’t know how he can immediately be obsessed and in love when he doesn’t know her. Like they hadn’t even really had any conversations.

Probably won’t go back to read the first few books in the series. But if you enjoy insta love this is for you!

[Karla Andreina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Georgia Grant is a character that is not stranger to loss, she was raise in house packed with solitude and quietness.

Life circumstances brought her to meet the love of her life, not once but twice, first in one of the most hard moments of her life and later on.

Sometimes we don’t understand why we have to go through the grief of losing the people we love most in our life but every single life event that Georgia endured brought her to her soul mate.

Georgia is the most resilient, strong, independent and empathetic person, she carry her grief in a extraordinary way, she is willing and determined to honor the memories of her family, and to recreate those moments.

Cash Hartnell knew that Georgia and him were meant to be, he did everything to prove that they belonged together, one of the most memorable things that I loved about the book is his availability to make Georgia feel seem and loved, he listen and pay attention to everything she said, he helped her understand that life is worth living, that is okay to dream and enjoy, that is okay to want to be happy. I loved how he goes above and beyond to continue the birthday tradition she had with her parents.

Cash is a character that love profoundly, specially his twin sister and sometimes that love take him to feel divided between be there for his sister or Georgia, I love how we see that Cash with all his flaws and the mistakes that he commit he knew when to apologize and improve.

Cash was dealing with the weight of wanting to meet his parents expectations for his future and wanting to play the game he loved and he wanted to make his sister as happy as he was, he felt that he was responsible for his sister being.

Cash and Georgia complement each other, I loved to see them growth and learn together, I loved to see them love and support each other.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cocky Mofo! Always Meant For You is the fourth book in the Shafer U series by Kristen Vail. What's better than a College Football hero who falls for his twin sisters best friend, who is also forbidden and they hide their relationship? The hero is a flirty playboy who is full of himself and with one look he knows the shy loner will be his future wife. Can be read as a stand alone, it does have a Third act breakup, no cheating or OW/OM drama, ends with a HEA, and my favorite...an epilogue is included.

TW: References to parent loss, A character struggling with depression and anxiety.


I would like to Thank Kristen Vail for my ARC and in return I voluntarily promised an honest review.


Georgia Grant has transferred to Shafer U for her last senior trimester and plans on living with her camp childhood friend while preparing her late Aunts house to be sold.

Cash Hartnell is the star running back for Shafer U and is he's guaranteed to take off his shirt and show the goods at least once a day. The man goes from woman to woman and has the gift of flirting down to an art form.

While in a crowded bar where Georgia is standing against the wall, they connect eyes from across the room, she immediately knows who he is, but he doesn't remember her and becomes absolutely obsessed, and thinks of her as his future wife.

Cash's twin sister forbids them to be together and Georgia makes that promise. Cash doesn't care and pursues her until they're burning up the sheets together.

When it comes down to it can Cash prove he was Always Meant For her and will put her first or is she destined to be alone?

[Rachel Armstrong · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huge thanks to @kristenvailbooks for the ARC of Always Meant For You.

This is a interconnected standalone romance in the Shafer U series. It was the first book I’ve read in the series and won’t be the last.

Cash is a star athlete on the Shafer U football team. He’s flirty and very sure of himself. He has a tight friend group and is super close to his twin sister Maisy. He’s weighed down by the pressure to go into the family construction business after college when he really dreams of being drafted in the NFL.

Georgia is new in town, arriving to renovate and sell the grand Victorian home she inherited from her grandmother. She’s smart and shy and best friends with Cash’s sister Maisy.

Sparks fly when Cash and Georgia meet and Cash falls very hard very fast. There’s just one tiny problem… Maisy has been burned before by Cash hooking up with her friends and she makes it clear she doesn’t want Cash and Georgia to pursue anything. There’s also the fact that Georgia is only in town for the semester before she plans on moving back to NJ.

This was such an enjoyable read. Cash is fun, flirty, romantic and head over heels for Georgia. Georgia has been alone for so long, losing her parents when she was young, and preferring her own company. She and Cash shouldn’t work on paper but they have amazing chemistry and an undeniable connection.

Cash’s sister Maisy struggles with anxiety and depression and this is well handled, as are the relationships between friends and family and how the characters deal with complications and expectations.

This is a great read for those who love a college romance with emotional depth and an irresistible MMC.

[Lidia · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I absolutely loved Always Meant for You by Kristen Vail.

I literally could not put this book down. As soon as I started reading, I was completely hooked and ended up finishing it in one sitting.

Cash is the definition of a golden retriever book boyfriend and I absolutely loved him. I loved that he had this whole playboy reputation, but the second he saw Georgia across the bar, he just knew. I ate that up. Their flirting was so cute, especially when they were looking at the house. I was smiling the whole time. The way he saw all the details while she tried to imagine what he was saying.

Georgia was such a great FMC. I loved how she stood up for herself and didn’t let her past define her. Obviously what happened still hurt her and affected her, but she never used it against anyone else. I also loved her friendship with Maisy. It was such a sweet friendship.

Now can we talk about the breakup? Why did I feel like Cash broke up with me? 😂 It actually hurt. I knew there was going to be an HEA, but the whole time I was thinking, okay… so when are they getting back together because I can’t do this. I will say both Cash and Georgia needed to communicate better, but I actually liked that their breakup happened through an argument instead of someone making up lies or threatening one of them. It felt realistic.

Kristen Vail wrote this book so well. I was completely invested in Cash and Georgia from beginning to end, and I loved watching Cash go from being the playboy to finding his girl.

I highly, highly recommend this book. It was cute, emotional, had amazing chemistry, an adorable golden retriever MMC, a strong FMC, and the perfect HEA.

[Jasmine Christian · Rating 4 out of 5]

"you can cry like that to me every night if you need to, and I'll be here. I'll take care of you. I'll fix whatever it is that's hurting. And if I can't, I'll be here to hold you until you don't want to cry anymore"

+ Best friends brother
+ Forbidden romance
+ Cat daddy MMC
+ Protective MMC
+ College football romance
+ HEA

I enjoyed this story. The FMC (Georgia) had a rough past with the death of her parents and was used to feeling alone. The MMC (Cash) was the opposite and grew up with a close knit family. Cash and Georgia originally met when they were younger, however he doesn't really remember her when they meet again as adults.

Georgia is best friends with Cash's sister (Maisy). She is completely against a relationship forming between them (adding in the forbidden part!). No matter how hard they try though, they can't stay away from each other and the longing becomes too much for them. I have to say I was getting a bit irritated with how she behaved about them but I understand mental health can make things a bit difficult.

Cash and Georgia are adorable together. It's refreshing to see a couple go through difficult times (instead of everything being great all the time between them!) and come out the other side stronger. You could tell the love and longing they had for each other, which is absolutely adorable. Cash is such a sweetheart MMC too. I love his personality and the fact he is a cat daddy 🥰

It was a good book, with a good storyline. Highly recommend. Can't wait to read more from this author 🥰

[BeccaFay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Georgia inherited a once beautiful Victorian home when her aunt passed away. She had plans to move in with her aunt to take care of her in her old age and attend college as well. Her aunt passed away before that could even happen so she just started college as planned. The house was pretty rough for wear so Georgia moved in with her childhood friend, Maisy.

Maisy invites Georgia to go to a bar with her where they can hang out with fellow students. There they run into Cash who happens to be Maisy’s twin brother. Cash doesn’t remember Georgia from their childhood when she spent 2 weeks with them and he thinks she’s just a random new student. He instantly knows that’s his future wife. Maisy reminds him of who she is but that doesn’t deter Cash.

Georgia & Cash start having feelings for each other and she’s about to let Maisy know, but Maisy tells her that she doesn’t allow her friends to date her brother 🙄 so now they have to be in a secret relationship…
The rest you’ll have to find out for yourself!

There is a 3rd act breakup and there IS a HEA 🙌🏻

I thought this was such a cute story. Cash is so devoted to Georgia. His words to her are so heartwarming and everything she needed to hear at the perfect times. I loved the way Georgia discovered more about her childhood and what happened after her parents passed. She found her perfect family as an adult though 🥹 the epilogue was so cute!!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️/5

[Shanice Rouhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I would rate this story 4⭐️

This story followed Cash, a big personality that is very persistent when he wants something, and Georgia a self proclaimed loner and homebody, essentially Cash’s opposite. The story follows Cash and Georgia as they fall for one another despite Georgia’s friend, Cash’s twin sister, expressing that she did not want either of them to go anywhere near each other.

Georgia’s life and existence had me all up in my feels, she did not deserve to feel like she was alone and that was just how she had to be. She had convinced herself that she would always be alone and she was ok with it. I loved that once she let Cash in, she saw that life was better when you had people surrounding you with love.

Cash, my goodness, while he had good intentions he was very persistent and did like being told no. His character arc was satisfying to read, though like in true male fashion he needed time to process and then come to terms with what he had done wrong.

This one was filled with DRAMA! I haven’t read a lot of college romances lately but considering the age, the situations and behaviours of the characters would be what I expect of people in their early 20’s. I loved that Georgia discovered her worth and was not afraid to put herself first when it mattered. The last 50% of the book had me in a choke hold. I may have been up until 2am finishing it 🤭

[Breanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75⭐ rounded up!

I'm not normally the biggest fan on instalove, however I started this book after finishing a much more heavily themed one, and Cash falling head over heels with Georgia the second he spots her across the room was just what I needed as a bit of a palate cleanser from the heavier themes I was coming from. He was super charming and he knew it - from his looks to his confidence, Cash was definitely a sweet talker. But his playboy days ended the second he saw Georgia. I loved that he never tried to act like anything he wasn't; he knew he wasn't the smartest student and wasn't trying to impress anyone by pretending to be (he's even referred to by himself and his friends as a himbo sometimes lol) But he also didn't hold back in what he wanted to say or do, and what he wanted to do was love Georgia.

Georgia came to town after her Aunt Julie unexpectedly left her house to her after passing away, and she's guarded due to her tragic past. After losing both her parents at a young age, she then grew up with her Grandmother, who was too wrapped in her own grief to provide her the love and support she needed. But Cash comes in swinging with all his charm, confidence, and determination to be the one for her, and despite trying her hardest, he breaks down her walls like no one else could.

I really loved Cash's growth in this story. He starts off as a young, somewhat naive, playboy. But his determination to be everything Georgia needed

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Advanced Reader Copy Review:

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.75/5) | 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

Always Meant For You was my first visit to the Shaffer U world, and I had no trouble jumping in without reading the previous books. It works well as a standalone while still making me curious enough to go back and read the rest of the series.

Gabriella was such an easy heroine to connect for me. As a fellow introvert, I really related to her, and I loved watching her grow throughout the story. Cash was a fun mmc, and I couldn’t help but smile at the fact that this is very much a he falls first romance. His instant attraction to Gabriella made for some genuinely sweet moments.

The pacing was great, and I flew through this book in a single day. It’s an easy, engaging read that balances romance, friendships, and football without requiring any knowledge of the sport to enjoy it.

My only real complaint is that I wanted a little more spice. The scenes that were included were well written and fit the relationship, but I found myself wishing there had been a bit more of them.

Overall, this is a heartwarming sports romance about finding love, discovering what family truly means, and building connections with the people who choose you. If you’re looking for a standalone college football romance with a lovable cast, a sweet he falls first dynamic, and moderate spice, I’d definitely recommend picking this one up.

[Deidra Vandine · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off a big thank you to the author for sharing this book with me as an arc reader. It’s truly appreciated allowing us an early peek at all your hard work. Thank you!

Cash and Georgia. What a story. The memories she has of Cash from a horrific summer she spent trying to cope was beautiful. The way these moments were peeked at in the book left me wanting more. They were sweet and caring - and I just needed more and more.

I loved the construction aspect to this story - enough I started down a rabbit hole of googling Queen Anne Victorian homes, and daydreaming about a wrap around porch.. needless to say a few times I had to refocus.. I’m a sucker for a Victorian home 🤷‍♀️

I found myself feeling the frustration along side Cash and Georgia for some of Maisy’s actions. At times, voicing my frustrations aloud to a confused husband and a bewilder dog. I appreciated that she came around and things resolved.

I think my only critic would be I wish we got more of Georgia’s back ground peppered in through out. A few more glimpses here and there.. oh.. and what the heck ever came of the envelope she dropped when shuffling invoices and such? That was the only question left I never figured out. Did I miss something… maybe a re-read is in order… darn - I’ll just need to go right back to the couch with a cozy blanket….

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Always Meant For You is a sport football romance in the Shafer U series. Even if it’s really not focussing around football we do have some hints here and there. It was a nice story of love at first sight around Georgia and Cash.
They were perfect, not perfect for each other. Cash didn’t know how to love, being a player all his life and Georgia was so used to being alone that she didn’t quite know how to act. Until the moment she felt betrayed and decided that now she knows what she is looking for in a relationship.
Georgia really struggles with everything that happened to her with her parents death and all the rejection she feels during her life.
Cash is the easy going person always there to help but not always helping the right person.
I didn’t like the reaction of Maisy (Cash sister) about Georgia and not being mad at her brother.
I think Cash's actions and the way he talks about Georgia are exaggerated. He is all of a sudden a little baby cat about her. Which is really funny because he is stuck with a real baby cat at the beginning of the book.
There are some spice in the book, but not too much so it doesn’t ruin the story. It’s just enough to feel their connection and their love.
I do recommend this book for easy reading.
Thank you Kristen Vail for this ARC opportunity.

[Ashtyn Stovall · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Read!
This was my first book by Kristen Vail, this is Book number 4 in The Shafer U series! (It Can be read as a standalone)
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️
Let me start off by saying Cash Hartnell is a man who knows exactly what he wants, even if that something is his Twin Sister Maisy’s Best friend Georgia.

Cash is a Cocky Football player, While Georgia is a Quiet recluse who enjoys staying home and listening to her music.When Maisy tells Georgia to stay away from Cash because she doesn’t allow her friends to date her brother, what else are they supposed to do other than sneak around?!

The chemistry was unmatched between the two, We love a man who’s not afraid to say exactly what’s on his mind! “You’re the guy out on a date with my future wife” 😝

While in the beginning I wasn’t a Huge fan of Maisy, as more of the story unfolded and we learned about her mental Health journey I started to understand her better. I loved how cash was so protective over his sister even if it meant risking everything he’s ever wanted in the process!

We love a Grand Gesture and Boy did Cash deliver, I was kicking My feet the last 50 pages!

I Really did enjoy this book and am looking forward to starting the rest of this series!