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To Be With You #1

First Impressions

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This is a NA book and is intended for 18+ readers. It contains adult language, sexual innuendos, adult humor and mild sexual encounters with situations that could be uncomfortable for some readers. Also if you have a soft spot for squirrels, you may or may not want to read this book . . . Please keep these warnings in mind, and I hope you enjoy.


He spilled his drink . . .
She hurled her insults . . .

When Gabby Meyers and Trace Martin first met, it ended up being one horrible misunderstanding after another. Trace only wanted to get to know her; she thought he only wanted to get into her pants. Between Gabby’s trust issues and Trace’s uncanny ability to make a lousy first impression, their relationship was doomed from the start.

Trace isn’t going to let one misunderstanding stand in the way of his heart. Determined to make her fall for him, Trace has to overcome a series of obstacles: a womanizing asshole who wants to add a notch in his bedpost; a crazy, overprotective father who wants Trace to participate in something called the “Man Test”; and a psycho one-night stand that won’t leave Gabby alone.

His biggest obstacle, however, is the giant wall around Gabby’s heart.

You only get once chance to make a first impression, but Trace is asking for a second shot.

317 pages, Paperback

First published July 2, 2015

13 people are currently reading
1089 people want to read

About the author

V. Kelly

22 books289 followers

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5 stars
76 (71%)
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22 (20%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Laura  Redmon.
489 reviews16 followers
October 4, 2015
5 Raccoon Stealing Wrenches Stars!

This was absolutely brilliant! I haven't laughed so much in awhile.

Gabby: oh boy, this girl is fiesty and just how Trace Martin wants her. She attends a frat party with her BFF. There she meets Trace. Well rather, he runs into her, literally, spilling beer on her, making an a$$ our of himself, and making Gabby's first impression of him, not stellar.

Trace: The first time he sees Gabby at a frat party a year prior, he believes it's his one, his dream girl, and love at first sight. He’s been jonesing for her since.

From there, Gabby can not stand Trace. Even when he saves her from a creeper. She treats him like utter crap. But, a psychology assignment will eventually teach her there is more to this man than bad first impressions.

This is one heck of a ride! I went from laughing my butt off, to being on edge, to being pissed, and then laughing hysterically again!

My ultimate favorite part of this book is when in the middle of the night Trace and Gabby's dad go to war with a racoon! Oh, i never laughed so much.

Ladies, you must one click this awesome book. If for nothing else then do it for Trace's abs!

I was selected to receive a free copy.

Laura Redmon
Cutting Muse Blog Review
Profile Image for Sara.
90 reviews
August 2, 2017
I won this book in a good reads giveaway! It came to me signed with a note and really cute stickers and bookmarks! The story was really fun! You get caught up in the banter between Gabby and Trace! I found myself laughing aloud a few times.
Profile Image for AnessaRenee Reviews.
311 reviews10 followers
June 3, 2016
The title of this book says it all. First impressions sometimes make all the difference in a situation. But does that mean they are always the truth?? This book really makes you think outside of the box and makes you questions your first instincts. Trace and Gabby don't start out on the right foot but does that mean it always stays that way. This book has so much depth to it. There's so many twists and turns that makes its better than your average college love story. It addresses real life situations and how life can be a roller coaster. If your looking for a book that has meaning and all the bonuses of a romance story than read this book. I simply can't wait to read the next book. This was my first book from V. Kelly but it won't be my last.
Profile Image for Kelly Tress.
118 reviews3 followers
Read
March 8, 2016
What a great story!

5 massively huge stars for this one! So sarcastically funny I couldn't breathe. I wanted to yell at the characters for being so oblivious to how they felt for each other at times. So many things kept getting in the way and way too many misunderstandings. I even cried a bit in this book, from laughing so hard it hurt to the sweetest things that were said and done, had tears rolling down my face! Overall I LOVED it! Fan-freaking-tastic! I can't wait to read more from this author. #headlesssquirrelrotflmao!
Profile Image for Melinda.
413 reviews35 followers
July 6, 2015
I was blessed with the opportunity to beta-read First Impressions and it's one of those books that once you pick up you absolutely can't put down until you're done. If you like a great storyline that makes you laugh out loud this book is the perfect one. I highly recommend it and I know you won't regret purchasing it.
Profile Image for Jessica Byrd.
86 reviews1 follower
October 4, 2015
Really good!

This was funny, romantic, suspenseful and just well put together! Can't wait to get the second book!! One of my new favorite authors!
Profile Image for Amanda .
311 reviews56 followers
March 11, 2017
Short review. Have you ever had a bad first impression that lead you to never giving someone a second chance? Then this is the book for you. Author V. Kelly does a great job of asking and exploring the question if a first impression of someone who they truly are or should you give them a second chance and get to know them before really judging them.

The first half the book had me disliking Gabby, she was naive and didn't seem to learn from her previous relationships that sometimes a guy can put on a false facade and mislead you to thinking they're a perfect guy when they aren't. I liked Trace throughout the story he was sweet but shy guy who when nervous suffer from word vomiting the wrong things. Brad and Brit are good friends to Trace and Gabby that I am looking forward to reading their story, I like Gabby's parents they were a great example of a first impression gone wrong and turn into a second chance made right. *Mini spoiler* While I would have love to see Elijah get beaten up for his douche ways the comeuppance he did get was way better than him getting the crap kicked out of him.
Profile Image for Marley.
191 reviews2 followers
July 20, 2016
This is a really good book, it has funny in it but it's more of a endearing story of second chance verses first impressions. You never read a book where the guy is emotional invested from the beginning and I loved that.

I loved Gabby and Trace. Gabbys parent were the best hands down. And Brit I swear I wish she could have had her own book, I really loved her to pieces.

Gabby is a college student. After years of being know as the 'cheat girl' by her best friend, Brit, because all the guys she's been serious with, cheat on her. She vowels not to fall for the jerks who just want to make her another notch on a bedpost. First impressions are everything to her and that becomes a down fall for her somewhat. Her first impression of Trace is douche alert while Elijah leaves the starry eyed dream guy. The question is will she see through the blurred lines before its to late.

Trace is an incredible guy who has been 'smitten' (his words not mine lol) with Gabby since seeing her at a frat party a year prior. Finally, she shows up at a party and his first impression is disastrous to say the least. This guy, wow! I don't think I've ever read a book with a guy like Trace. I can't even describe him; he truly wears his heart on his sleeve when it comes to Gabby. Morals and values bleed from his veins and spill from his heart but he truly has a verbal diarrhea problem. Boy just has to many issues for my tissues when it comes to talking to Gabby without sounding like an arrogant pig, poor guy. Crap, never-mind, he deserves a tissue. He has given love at first sight a whole new outlook. The bs and trials he faces to get the girl are more than most would bare. Trace is the very definition of a good guy. You can only hope Gabby takes the chance to see the true Trace.

I really enjoyed this, some parts made me mad but you have to have that with character build(Elijah) so that when you get to the end all the passion you feel is worth the madness. I feel like if I say more about that then I will give away parts of the story.
Profile Image for Colleen.
158 reviews2 followers
November 18, 2015
So I happened to meet Vanessa in a group on social media. She offered me her book to read since I was in her group & felt everyone in it should have read at least one book of hers. We chatted back & forth for a while. She sent me a clip from a future book of hers & I absolutely died laughing! As soon as I finished reading the current book I was already into I picked up First Impressions.

I must say that I was so NOT disappointed! Not only was it a great story with twists & turns, some steamy hot scenes and a sweet romance I found myself laughing quite a lot. There are so many funny 1 liners in this book that hit you out of nowhere in addition to actions of characters that had me in hysterics!

It was so easy to relate to her characters. They felt like they were friends of mine she used in her books. Vanessa wrote each character so well, some with back stories that I honestly felt what they were feeling in the book!

Vanessa is one of those hidden gem new indie authors who's passion for writing shines through in her work. Keep your eye out for many more releases from this very talented author!!! I know I can't wait for her next ones!!
Profile Image for Tina Todd shobe.
556 reviews2 followers
February 9, 2016
I'm just going to start off saying that I LOVE THIS BOOK!

So far in Gabby's life she has been cheated on by every boyfriend she has had. She's really leary of getting involved in another relationship

Trace saw his 'dream girl' a year ago at a party and before he could get up the nerve to talk to her she leaves with another guy. He's been hoping to connect with her ever since.

Trace and Gabby meet when she attends a party at his frat house, with her best friend Britni. He runs into her and spills beer on her and the 'chance' meeting goes down hill from there.

Trace and Gabby end up taking a class together and poor Trace he keeps opening up his mouth and saying the wrong things but he proves to Gabby that he is always there to protect her. Especially when a pscho ex-hook up of hers is on the loose.

I really got pulled into this book and enjoyed getting to know Trace, Gabby and other characters in the book.

There is a really hilarious part when Gabby's dad puts him through the 'Man Test'.

I can't wait to read Brad and Britni's story. (and I hope we get to reconnect with Trace and Gabby).
Profile Image for Brandy Roberts.
2,082 reviews64 followers
September 28, 2015
I was gifted a copy of this amazing book V Kelly has turned into one of my favorite authors can't wait to see what the next book is going to be i didn't want first impressions to end Kept me interested and always guessing what would happen next i hated that i had to put it down for sleep stupid work :p but write when i got home a$$ on couch kindle in hand :) the story line was something i haven't read before and i loved that it also makes the reader fell emotion and when authors do that you know your in for a ride I had moments when I was so mad at the main characters I wanted to throw my kindle I even yelled at it but other times it had me laughing so hard that my dog was looking at me like was cra cra I loved this book i said that already didnt i well i did ;) the angst, funny times, connection that the main characters had, their personalities . i liked Gabby and Trace i felt like i could relate to them i also liked the side characters i hope they get there books :) the pace was spot on it wasnt to fast or slow the character growth elevated throughout the story
Profile Image for Becky.
528 reviews22 followers
May 30, 2015
I was lucky enough to beta read this and it was fantastic.I found myself laughing out loud and getting increasingly weirder looks from the people I worked with whilst I was reading in my lunch hour.

The title for this is perfect as it is an underlying theme throughout the whole story. Gabby, having had bad past experiences, mistakes Trace's nervousness for cockiness and instantly categorises him as the type of boy she needs to stay away from. As a result of her past experiences, Gabby is adamant that you can instantly determine what kind of a person someone is and lives by this rule.

Trace is not deterred, things didn't go his way the first time, but surely people don't make their minds up based on their first impression??

Add in a bubbly best friend, a womanising, egotistical guy who not only hates Trace but has set his sights on Gabby, and the hilarity that is the man test and you will be feeling a full range of emotions whilst reading this book.
Profile Image for Erica Dobinson.
13 reviews
July 17, 2015
I was really lucky to have been a beta reader for this story and let me tell you - I LOVED IT! I have read it quite a lot both pre/post release and I still love it. It is one of those stories you can re-read and re-read and you still get sucked in as if it was the first time (well it is for me). I don't want to give too much away but Gabby as a leading lady is brilliant, she doesn't take any crap for anyone and sticks to her guns - at the same time she as a vulnerable side. Trace - wow! I want one!!! He is awesome! I love him a lot - and Elijah is a dick :) The rollercoaster that Gabby & Trace go through is unbelievable and well written by the lovely Vanessa, you feel the emotions that are written and you start routing for them both to come out OK!!! The Man Test - FUNNIEST PART EVER!!!! If you like squirrels though - maybe skip this part :)
Profile Image for Amanda Lawrence.
8 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2015
I received First impressions as a beta and was blown away with this book! Since this is a new author, I wasn't sure what to expect from this book. But there is a reason why you should never go into books with expectations. First impressions left me with a great first impression of this author!! It drew me in from the very beginning. I understand fighting your true feelings, or not fully understanding what your feeling towards someone. I had moments when I was so mad at the main character I wanted to throw my kindle or just thump her in the head and be like "Hello..wake up you idiot!!" other times it had me laughing so hard that I had people looking at me like I was crazy. I loved this book, the angst, the connection that the main characters had, their personalities. It was so well written and had me hooked. I can't wait to see more of what this author has to offer!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Crissy.
2,806 reviews5 followers
August 7, 2016
This book was an okay read for me. Gabby believes in first impressions and Trace definitely doesn't make a good first one but he's determined to make Gabby give him a second chance. There were some funny parts in this story and there is a bit of suspense, especially with Nick. I both liked and disliked Gabby's character at times, especially for the way she treated Trace at times and the way she let Elijah do what he did and was okay with it. I disliked Elijah a lot. Had Gabby not learn anything from her past 9 relationships or hookups? I did however, enjoy her dad and her stepmom and the relationship they had. I laughed quite a bit while reading the things her dad and Trace did together. I enjoyed Trace's character a lot and the back and forth banter between him and his friend/roommate. This was a free read I picked up on Amazon and the first book I've read from this author.
Profile Image for Chelle Myers.
53 reviews80 followers
June 23, 2016
I absolutely adored this book! It was a ray of sunshine in my over stressed world!
Gabby has had a crappy history with men and is so afraid of getting involved with someone new.
Sweet Trace has had his eye on her for awhile and was hoping to get a chance with her since he first saw her! Unfortunately their run-ins seem to always end in disaster. This book is a hilarious ride of will they or won't they!? The characters are so easy to relate to and realistic while still being completely insanely hilarious! It truly is a fantastic story full of unpredictable twists & laugh out loud humor with the perfect mix of romance & insanely hot encounters! The "Man Test" & that darn raccoon are absolute comedic genius! I loved this book and HIGHLY recommend it and this author to my fellow readers!
Profile Image for Mel.
414 reviews14 followers
June 28, 2016
V Kelly loves to include gut busting humour into her stories and I want to thank her for that.

Elijah is a TWAT!!!! Wanted to beat the snot out of him!

Anyway, this story was funny, sad, sweet and adorable. I loved Gabby and Trace soooo much. This story was so well explored I felt sad when it finished. Gabby has me laughing so much with her sass. Trace was absolutely adorable and gave as good as he got with Gabby.

I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO PEOPLE WHO LOVE A GUT BUSTING ROMANCE.

WARNING: Don't read in public, if you're embarrassed when caught laughing without known cause. V Kelly will make you do it.



Profile Image for Jennifer Alvarez.
1,072 reviews42 followers
Read
July 8, 2016
Damn. A definite must-have!

First impressions can be super right or super wrong. Either way they are a killer way to break the ice! Trace is the epitome of a book boyfriend. Gorgeous, amazing, funny and most of all: perfectly imperfect. He just needs to convince his dream girl of this. You will laugh and cry your way through this amazing story. It is perfectly crafted to keep you yearning for more and satisfying you all at the same time. It was fantastic! Another win for V Kelly.
Profile Image for Stacy Aube.
834 reviews2 followers
October 8, 2015
Trace first see Gabby at a frat party, he knows she's the only one for him. A year later they have their first awkward meeting. Gabby hates him right away. She does everything to get him away. Trace can't let that happen. This book follows their awkward relationship. This book had me laughing out loud and I just loved it. If you like books with deception, humor, and romance this is a must read for you.
Profile Image for Cynthia Villarreal Ortiz.
280 reviews11 followers
December 10, 2015
First V. Kelly book!! Absolutely Loved it!! It was funny!! I loved the comraderie of Gabby and Britni!! Sisters for sure!! Trace is such a cutie!!! Poor guy cant catch a brake with Gabby!! But he will eventually wear her down with his knightly attitude and actions... Elijah is such a manwhore and doesnt deny it!! Nick is just creepy.
Even her biker daddy falls for Trace's knightly attitude!!
Awesome Read!! Funny, suspensful, and sexy..

**Book Given as part of a Giveaway**
Profile Image for Andrew Hess.
Author 37 books54 followers
August 3, 2016
V Kelly has done it again. This is the third book I've read from her and find each one hysterical. Trace and Gabby's verbal assaults and combacks were witty and flustered the other intensely. I couldn't stop laughing at their first interaction. This book played with my emotions well. It incited anger, hostility, laughter, happiness, and a little bit of shock. I loved it and look forward to reading the second book in the series.
Profile Image for Amy.
1,736 reviews
November 28, 2015
I wasn't sure how I felt about this one. Misunderstandings that turn into grudges because people don't talk really make me cranky, but this was a good story. It really picked up about a quarter of the way in and didn't let me go. (I planned only to read a few chapters this morning and ended up finishing the book.)
Profile Image for Crystal.
2,715 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2015
I was gifted this book from V. Kelly who was a new author to me, and I got to say she is such an incredible writer. Once I started First Impressions I couldn't put it down, there was so many twists and turns I couldn't turn the pages fast enough, add in hot steamy sex and adorable romance with laugh at loud moments, then you need to read this book.
Profile Image for Aimee.
197 reviews3 followers
November 24, 2015
Loved the book. It took a little while for it to catch my interest and I ended up putting it down for a few days. I decided to try it again and actually enjoyed it. I loved how Gabby kept trying to deny her attraction to Trace and how he wouldn't give up. He didn't really give her a good 1st impression but he definitely tried to make up for it. Good book to read!!!
Profile Image for Kimberley.
47 reviews69 followers
February 3, 2016
I loved this book! I was expecting it to be just a rom com but there was so much more to it which I absolutely loved. There was humor as well as some angst and at one point I wanted to strangle Gabrielle but it all came together perfectly in the end. I highly recommend reading this through to the end because it is so worth it.
Profile Image for Laci.
63 reviews1 follower
Read
February 17, 2016
Good book

This book is worth a one click. I originally thought this was a funny book before I bought it, but it's not a funny book. It is still a good book. Good relatable characters and the story flows. Next thing you know you read the while thing. I liked it. I will be getting the next book.
Profile Image for Socially Book Nerd .
511 reviews48 followers
January 2, 2017
1st impressions tend to stick, it takes a lot to change your opinion of someone, old habits for hard and deep seated issues & feeling are not so easily forgotten, Trace works hard to change the 1st impression Gabby had of him. He is also determined to help her over come herself and her her to call for him. I liked this book a lot, it has me laughing and mmmhmm (ing) a lot!!
Profile Image for Brenda.
794 reviews3 followers
January 7, 2017
This is a fantastic read! I absolutely loved it! I laughed and cried and laughed..... Gabby & Trace get into a run in at a party and it wasn't a good first impression. Trace does all the impossible to help Gabby and get her to give him a second chance but she is so stubborn to her feelings. I definitely and honestly recommend this book
Profile Image for Felicia Hays.
2 reviews
March 22, 2017
I absolutely loved this book. I couldn't put it down. I could connect to the main character with things from my own life and it kept me intrigued. Couldn't put it down til it was done! Absolutely hilarious!!
Profile Image for Robin Poladian.
8 reviews3 followers
January 10, 2016
This is a story I'm sure some can relate to. Gabby and Trace sure know how to set things going. You'll laugh and get mad. If you have triggers just be warned that there are spots that can set it off. Nothing to extreme. Hope you enjoyed it like I did.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews

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