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The Sexy Soldiers #12
The First Classman: West Point Tour of Duty
Willow
I only knew his first name.
The night we met, we were only having fun. It wasn’t serious. It was one last fling before real life took over. I knew I wasn’t ever going to see him again.
But I was wrong.
Dean
I didn’t ask for her last name.
She was a spontaneous night of fun right before I went back to West Point and football. We were only together for a good time. I knew we couldn’t have anything real beyond that one night.
But I was wrong.
And when we meet again in the most unexpected way, I find out that one night of fun could cost me my career and all of my goals.
It could mean the end of her dreams, too.
And it all started on one fateful night . . .
I only knew his first name.
The night we met, we were only having fun. It wasn’t serious. It was one last fling before real life took over. I knew I wasn’t ever going to see him again.
But I was wrong.
Dean
I didn’t ask for her last name.
She was a spontaneous night of fun right before I went back to West Point and football. We were only together for a good time. I knew we couldn’t have anything real beyond that one night.
But I was wrong.
And when we meet again in the most unexpected way, I find out that one night of fun could cost me my career and all of my goals.
It could mean the end of her dreams, too.
And it all started on one fateful night . . .
- GenresContemporaryRomance
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 21, 2023
152 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Tawdra Kandle
147 books777 followersTawdra Kandle is the author of over 140 contemporary and paranormal romances. Her engaging characters and realistic worlds lure return readers to devour the steamy love stories she spins.
Tawdra writes stories just like real life . . . only spicier!
Fan favorites include The Anti-Cinderella Chronicles, Love in a Small Town, and The Sexy Soldiers Military Romances.
Tawdra lives in central Florida with her husband, a sweet pup, and a snarky cat. Assorted grown children and two perfect granddaughters live nearby.
You can FOLLOW Tawdra here to receive updates on her releases. You can also visit her website at http://tawdrakandle.com for more information, and subscribe to her newsletter https://tawdrakandle.substack.com/sub... for sales announcements, special exclusive content, and promotions!
Tawdra writes stories just like real life . . . only spicier!
Fan favorites include The Anti-Cinderella Chronicles, Love in a Small Town, and The Sexy Soldiers Military Romances.
Tawdra lives in central Florida with her husband, a sweet pup, and a snarky cat. Assorted grown children and two perfect granddaughters live nearby.
You can FOLLOW Tawdra here to receive updates on her releases. You can also visit her website at http://tawdrakandle.com for more information, and subscribe to her newsletter https://tawdrakandle.substack.com/sub... for sales announcements, special exclusive content, and promotions!
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 13, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not normally into military romance, nor do I gravitate to the surprise pregnancy trope. So I almost didn't give this book a shot. I'm really, really glad I didn't let those things talk me out of reading this gem of a book. The characters are completely engaging, the story is full of growth and heart, plus football! I'm absolutely in love with Dean and Willow. Perfect afternoon read!
My only complaint as I was reading was that we didn't get to see their night together, but that's okay, because the author gives it to us in a bonus chapter!!
I'm not normally into military romance, nor do I gravitate to the surprise pregnancy trope. So I almost didn't give this book a shot. I'm really, really glad I didn't let those things talk me out of reading this gem of a book. The characters are completely engaging, the story is full of growth and heart, plus football! I'm absolutely in love with Dean and Willow. Perfect afternoon read!
My only complaint as I was reading was that we didn't get to see their night together, but that's okay, because the author gives it to us in a bonus chapter!!
January 21, 2024
Dean Lassiter is a cadet at, West Point starting his fourth year, and on the football team. He goes with his childhood best friend, whom he is finding out he has less, and less in common with, each time they meet. In fact, they fight about her putting him in a position to put his appointment at, West Point in jeopardy. It was time for him to go. On the porch to cool down from the argument, disappointment, and regret that his oldest friend was heading down a dark path he couldn't save her from. He takes a moment to breathe and that's when it happens.
He meets the most beautiful woman he ever saw, Willow Casey. After talking for a bit they both realize they each had been roped into going to the party. When exchanging names they give only their first name, the last didn't seem to matter, and they never see each other again. He had brought his car and decided to leave, and he offered her a ride. They were out in the middle of nowhere, she gladly took his offer.
They both have thought of that night fondly but had lives to get back to before adulting would start. “It was their One last hoorah. Just one more night of fun.” They would soon find out that their lives would intersect in a way they could never have imagined that night. Because Dean is the quarterback for her father’s football team at West Point. Did I tell you how much Willow hates football because of being dragged everywhere because of his career and all the football players always around totally off limits?
This is a story about a tradition within the academy that is sad. To keep their honor if they have a child out of wedlock they must leave and pay back all their tuition. If, the mother names them the father. But, if he can get her to sign off on the cadet's parental rights they are good. So, to do the right thing they are penalized. What F’d up decision is that to have to make?
It doesn't seem possible that on a chance meeting, you would meet your future husband on a one-off, at a raging loud party where you know nobody, and in another state. This is a slow-burn love story. Willow could at times be a pain in the a$$ but the hormones were running a muck. Dean was so good to her. When he first found out he was not the most receptive or sensitive. But, he was in shock, but after that settled he was right there. Patty was so good about everything. The poor coach was clueless till the end. I just love this.
He meets the most beautiful woman he ever saw, Willow Casey. After talking for a bit they both realize they each had been roped into going to the party. When exchanging names they give only their first name, the last didn't seem to matter, and they never see each other again. He had brought his car and decided to leave, and he offered her a ride. They were out in the middle of nowhere, she gladly took his offer.
They both have thought of that night fondly but had lives to get back to before adulting would start. “It was their One last hoorah. Just one more night of fun.” They would soon find out that their lives would intersect in a way they could never have imagined that night. Because Dean is the quarterback for her father’s football team at West Point. Did I tell you how much Willow hates football because of being dragged everywhere because of his career and all the football players always around totally off limits?
This is a story about a tradition within the academy that is sad. To keep their honor if they have a child out of wedlock they must leave and pay back all their tuition. If, the mother names them the father. But, if he can get her to sign off on the cadet's parental rights they are good. So, to do the right thing they are penalized. What F’d up decision is that to have to make?
It doesn't seem possible that on a chance meeting, you would meet your future husband on a one-off, at a raging loud party where you know nobody, and in another state. This is a slow-burn love story. Willow could at times be a pain in the a$$ but the hormones were running a muck. Dean was so good to her. When he first found out he was not the most receptive or sensitive. But, he was in shock, but after that settled he was right there. Patty was so good about everything. The poor coach was clueless till the end. I just love this.
February 21, 2023
The First Classman by Tawdra Kandle is an emotional and charming story that will definitely tug at your heartstrings yet leave your heart filled with joy. It was serendipity how Willow and Dean first met, two strangers who met at a party. Willow and Dean meet at a party but they both have their lives planned and they agree to just one last night of fun before the summer ends. Not giving each other their last names, they discover life had other plans; providing some major surprises later on. But life has a way of interfering with one’s plans, leaving fate to play a crucial part in bringing them back together in the most unexpected of ways and drawing them into each other’s lives for a reason they would never have predicted. Despite their relationship being challenged with many conflicts, it makes for a most interesting tale; one filled with strong emotions, a bit of angst, some honest frustration with touches of anger, and the inevitable yet hard-fought hope for a HEA.
Ms. Kandle wrote an emotional, scorching, angst-filled romance that is a must read. She provided a tale filled with sizzling chemistry, strong attraction, major obstacles, clever banter, and involved secondary characters, as Willow and Dean find a path to love and a future together. I highly recommend The First Classman to other readers and look forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. Kandle wrote an emotional, scorching, angst-filled romance that is a must read. She provided a tale filled with sizzling chemistry, strong attraction, major obstacles, clever banter, and involved secondary characters, as Willow and Dean find a path to love and a future together. I highly recommend The First Classman to other readers and look forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
February 7, 2023
It was serendipity how Willow and Dean first met. The two were strangers who met at a party where they decided on one last night of fun over the summer without giving each other their last names. The two sure got some surprises later on. Willow goes to spend some time with her parents at West Point where her father was the football coach. Willow put in a lot of time trying to get a college where she could work and get her Ph.D.
Dean didn’t have much growing up and was ecstatic to get a commission to West Point. I was impressed with Dean how he put so much work in his class work, his football, and his honor as a cadet. It sure made it hard for him when his buddies gave him a hard time for not partying. When his football coach invited Dean over for dinner, he and Willow sure got a surprise! Dean was such a great guy who befriended Willow and they became best friends. There was so much going on that I don’t want to give away. There were some funny times as well as sad times. This was a very interesting story that I encourage you to read. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
Dean didn’t have much growing up and was ecstatic to get a commission to West Point. I was impressed with Dean how he put so much work in his class work, his football, and his honor as a cadet. It sure made it hard for him when his buddies gave him a hard time for not partying. When his football coach invited Dean over for dinner, he and Willow sure got a surprise! Dean was such a great guy who befriended Willow and they became best friends. There was so much going on that I don’t want to give away. There were some funny times as well as sad times. This was a very interesting story that I encourage you to read. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
February 22, 2023
Wow - this book really changed my mind about what to expect from a book revolving around pregnancy. I am obsessed with Dean and can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
Dean has his life planned out and is executing flawlessly on said plan. He is even spending time at home before heading back to West Point for his last year. It’s at a terrible party that his entire world changes. Willow is also executing on her carefully planned life - having just completed her masters abroad with plans to get her doctorate next. She’s also found herself at a terrible party while visiting friends from home before taking the next step in life. These two make what seems like random decisions that night that set them both spiraling.
Willow gets some surprising news, but has little information to inform Dean about it until he ends up in her living room seemingly by fate. Dean, it turns out, is on her dad’s football team and ended up invited for dinner. There are so many secrets, twists and turns, and magical moments that I don’t want to spoil any of it for you. Just sit back and enjoy the ride that is Dean and Willow’s love story. If you like books that melt your heart and bring back your faith in happily ever after, definitely check this one out!
Dean has his life planned out and is executing flawlessly on said plan. He is even spending time at home before heading back to West Point for his last year. It’s at a terrible party that his entire world changes. Willow is also executing on her carefully planned life - having just completed her masters abroad with plans to get her doctorate next. She’s also found herself at a terrible party while visiting friends from home before taking the next step in life. These two make what seems like random decisions that night that set them both spiraling.
Willow gets some surprising news, but has little information to inform Dean about it until he ends up in her living room seemingly by fate. Dean, it turns out, is on her dad’s football team and ended up invited for dinner. There are so many secrets, twists and turns, and magical moments that I don’t want to spoil any of it for you. Just sit back and enjoy the ride that is Dean and Willow’s love story. If you like books that melt your heart and bring back your faith in happily ever after, definitely check this one out!
February 20, 2023
Awesome Contemporary Military Romance
Willow spent the last year going to school in Amsterdam. Now she is back in the United States looking into schools in the Boston area or around New York City so that she can get her doctorate in archeology. That’s her dream and until it comes true she has no time for relationships. Dean won his appointment to United States Military Academy over four years ago. From the moment he found out that he was going, he made big plans, and then worked to make those plans a reality. Nothing will divert him from that path. One party changes everything for both Willow and Dean. This was a well written wholesome romance that was so believable. The characters were engaging and endear themselves to your heart. I could not put this one down till I was finished. I love Tawdra Kandle’s style of writing and cannot wait to read the next book in her “West Point Tour of Duty” series.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in return for voluntarily writing an honest review.
Willow spent the last year going to school in Amsterdam. Now she is back in the United States looking into schools in the Boston area or around New York City so that she can get her doctorate in archeology. That’s her dream and until it comes true she has no time for relationships. Dean won his appointment to United States Military Academy over four years ago. From the moment he found out that he was going, he made big plans, and then worked to make those plans a reality. Nothing will divert him from that path. One party changes everything for both Willow and Dean. This was a well written wholesome romance that was so believable. The characters were engaging and endear themselves to your heart. I could not put this one down till I was finished. I love Tawdra Kandle’s style of writing and cannot wait to read the next book in her “West Point Tour of Duty” series.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in return for voluntarily writing an honest review.
February 7, 2023
THE FIRST CLASSMAN is an emotional and quite endearing story that will definitely tug at your heartstrings and yet leave your heart filled with joy. Willow and Dean both have very strong characters with a razor-sharp focus on their individual life goals. But life has a way of interfering with one’s plans, leaving fate to play a pivotal part in bringing them back together in the most unexpected of ways and drawing them into each other’s lives for a reason they would never have predicted. Even though theirs is a relationship faced with many conflicts, it makes for a most interesting tale. One that is filled with strong emotions, a bit of angst, some honest frustration with touches of anger, and the inevitable yet hard-fought hope for a HEA. This is a fast-paced and very engaging read that is sure to keep you thoroughly entertained. It’s wonderful to be back in the West Point Tour of Duty World again.
February 23, 2023
Unplanned pregnancy and complications
Willow, returning from studying archeology masters and preparing for next degree in Amsterdam, stays with friends and is dragged to a party she is not really interested in. Dean, attending West Point, determined to succeed and also footballer, is also pressured into attending the party. Neither enjoy it and leave together, a one night stand arrangement with no last names etc.
Fast forward a few few weeks and the two people meet again in the most unexpected circumstances . Surprise and distress.
Both are determined, committed to their careers, driven and hungry for success..until the pregnancy. The consequences for both are alarming. There is emotion, secrets, and with all things considered, interesting as to how things develop
Willow, returning from studying archeology masters and preparing for next degree in Amsterdam, stays with friends and is dragged to a party she is not really interested in. Dean, attending West Point, determined to succeed and also footballer, is also pressured into attending the party. Neither enjoy it and leave together, a one night stand arrangement with no last names etc.
Fast forward a few few weeks and the two people meet again in the most unexpected circumstances . Surprise and distress.
Both are determined, committed to their careers, driven and hungry for success..until the pregnancy. The consequences for both are alarming. There is emotion, secrets, and with all things considered, interesting as to how things develop
February 23, 2023
I guess fate had a hand in the journey of Willow and Dean, a one night fling never to see each other again, only to be brought together for more than one reason.
Two people with their futures planned but all those plans are suddenly in jeopardy, so many changes to be faced.
An emotional story that brought tears and heartache for all that these two characters faced, but puts everything to rights when they figure things out and start fighting for the same things.
Full of twists, turns endearing characters, personal growth and eventually a HEA. I was cheering for this couple from the start. Brilliant.
I received a free copy and this is my honest review.
Two people with their futures planned but all those plans are suddenly in jeopardy, so many changes to be faced.
An emotional story that brought tears and heartache for all that these two characters faced, but puts everything to rights when they figure things out and start fighting for the same things.
Full of twists, turns endearing characters, personal growth and eventually a HEA. I was cheering for this couple from the start. Brilliant.
I received a free copy and this is my honest review.
February 26, 2023
The First Classman was a delight to read! I really appreciated the very real portrayal of the range of thoughts and feelings that a woman might go through when they find out that they’re pregnant and unmarried, even in this day and age. I loved Dean as a character. He was not afraid to say what he wanted and needed from the start, making him pretty swoon-worthy. I loved Willow and her independence, plus she was a fun character to read. I really enjoyed reading about all the traditions and places in West Point. This whole book made me want to plan a vacation stop out there. I really think Tawdra wrote another Best Seller with this one!
February 22, 2023
This was a very intense and well-crafted story. The opening premise of how Dean and Willow met (and then met again) was very creative. It was fascinating to read what a difference it made to the plot and to the characters to have the book take place at West Point instead of just some ordinary college. Dean and Willow had to figure out how to cope with their situation while barely being able to see each other - quite the slow burn romance. I certainly wasn’t sure how things were going to turn out as the book progressed. Well done!
February 24, 2023
Willow and Dean meet at a party and end up having a one night stand. They didn’t use their names and leave the next morning. Dean get invited by his coach to dinner later and he goes and to his shock sees Willow! It’s turns out she’s the coaches daughter! What happens when she turns up pregnant and changes their lives! Will this ruin their dreams for the future and will they find a way to make it work? I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 25, 2023
Willow and Dean meet at a party, neither of them wants to be there, they only exchange first names.
A few weeks later Willow's life changes dramatically, then she meets Dean at her parents house, her father is his football coach. Things become complicated.
Can they come to terms with the upheaval? What decisions should they make? What about their careers?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
A great read from Tawdra
A few weeks later Willow's life changes dramatically, then she meets Dean at her parents house, her father is his football coach. Things become complicated.
Can they come to terms with the upheaval? What decisions should they make? What about their careers?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
A great read from Tawdra
March 1, 2023
Got an idea of what cadets go through at West Point . Dean and Willow had a one night stand when Willow was visiting college roommates . She wanted to enter a doctoral program and he was in his last year at West Point before graduating and becoming an officer bound to serve five years in return for his free education . Of course the one night stand resulted in a pregnancy which could change all their plans . Interesting to see how they handle all of this .
February 21, 2023
In this one night stand story you can feel all the heartbreak, hers and his when the stick turns pink. My favorite part of the story is probably Dean. His baggage is heavy and his soul seems lost much of the time. Willow loses her dreams too but her support system is strong. I enjoy their journey to real life. Thank you to the author for an advance copy. This is my honest opinion.
January 22, 2024
This book was an easy read and well laid out. I enjoyed the plot and the characters, though I did feel like some parts were unnecessary and written about just for the sake of it. I honestly think it would have been better if it had a little more length and character development, overall I enjoyed it and read it through in one day.
February 21, 2023
A well written plot line and the characters were intresting to read. The romance the love drama between the characters were off the characters. I really loved the book and definitely recommend it
I received a free arc and leaving an honest review
I received a free arc and leaving an honest review
February 21, 2023
They meet at a party and spend the night together only giving each other their first names. Aren’t they both shocked when Willow’s father, Dean’s coach invited him to dinner and they see each other again. Both of their futures are going to change dramatically when they realize she’s pregnant.
February 21, 2023
Good and simple
It's a good romance, tender, simple, if not the questioning between two young adults for whom motherhood could not have started at a worse time. The story is well written, pleasant to read and remains very soft.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
It's a good romance, tender, simple, if not the questioning between two young adults for whom motherhood could not have started at a worse time. The story is well written, pleasant to read and remains very soft.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
January 20, 2024
3.5 I absolutely adore Dean. He was pretty hard not to love. There were certainly moments of this I skimmed, which is why I would say it was a 3.5 but both characters were very lovable, and the story overall was super sweet and enjoyable.
January 19, 2024
Loved It!
This was such a lovely story! I loved the premise of the book, and enjoyed getting to know all of the characters.
This was such a lovely story! I loved the premise of the book, and enjoyed getting to know all of the characters.
January 19, 2024
A good read.
This was a nice little story. Lots of innuendo. No sex just love. Good for reading whenever you want a feel good story.
This was a nice little story. Lots of innuendo. No sex just love. Good for reading whenever you want a feel good story.
January 25, 2024
Great book! Not the typical secret baby book but very romantic and enjoyable to read. The characters were likable.
January 30, 2024
Accidental pregnancy, unknown one night stand. Okay for an actual no sex read. Dean was an officer and a gentleman. Average read for me.
December 7, 2024
Sweet story. Not a lot of action.
February 21, 2023
A beautifully written story about two people who are obviously meant to meet. Willow and Dean meet at a party but they both have their lives planned and they agree to just one night with no strings attached. Life, however, had other plans. Their story is sweet and touching, it will pull at your heartstrings, there is conflict and angst but they eventually get their HEA.
February 21, 2023
Such a fun read.
So Willow and Dean meet at a party and have a one night stand, certain that they'll never see each other again. Oh but fate has other plans as that night leaves a permanent surprising outcome.
Willow is torn about what to do as this isn't part of any of her future plans. She doubts that she'll ever even see him again. Surely their paths won't cross at West Point. Oh but again fate steps in.
When Dean first finds out - I didn't like him very much and some of the military rules are downright appalling...but I digress. He finally redeems himself and he and Willow are so sweet together.
I love the confidence she has even when she doesn't know what decisions to make. She's a bit sassy too - I just loved her character.
An entertaining read with a touch of military realism.
I voluntarily requested and read an uncorrected advance reader copy from the author.
So Willow and Dean meet at a party and have a one night stand, certain that they'll never see each other again. Oh but fate has other plans as that night leaves a permanent surprising outcome.
Willow is torn about what to do as this isn't part of any of her future plans. She doubts that she'll ever even see him again. Surely their paths won't cross at West Point. Oh but again fate steps in.
When Dean first finds out - I didn't like him very much and some of the military rules are downright appalling...but I digress. He finally redeems himself and he and Willow are so sweet together.
I love the confidence she has even when she doesn't know what decisions to make. She's a bit sassy too - I just loved her character.
An entertaining read with a touch of military realism.
I voluntarily requested and read an uncorrected advance reader copy from the author.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews