He Falls First by Jill Shalvis – a Review

Description:
No one is going to convince her to fall in love again…

Ryder Colburn has his hands full running the family business and caring for the ailing father who’s a virtual stranger from the cold, heavy-handed man he used to be. He’s got zero free time for hobbies or women. Or so he thinks until one walks into his life… and the path of an oncoming car.

Ryder doesn’t mind playing the hero for the skittish, scarred chef Penny. Maybe it’s the secrets in her eyes or the scar on her chin. Whatever the reason, he’s compelled to get closer.

Penny’s learned her lesson and now she’s paying the price. That’s why she’s sharing a dilapidated house in a tiny California town with her feisty grandmother and tween brother living off the leftovers from her catering job. It’s a far cry from her dream life. But who needs dreams… or love… or sex when there’s amateur plumbing projects to tackle and breakfast casseroles to bake?

One thing’s for sure, she’s never falling in love again. Not even with the sexy, snarky contractor who keeps testing the walls she’s built.

Review:

He Falls First by Jill Shalvis is the first book in her new Colburn Brothers series. Ryder Colburn owns and operates a successful restoration business with his two brothers. He is the one who always watches over his brothers and sister (Caleb, Tucker and Kiera), making sure they are safe and taken care of. Ryder still feels the tragic loss of Kiera’s husband and his best friend. Ryder also takes care of his father (who had a stroke) at night, even though his father was very abusive with his kids; now he mentally disabled.

Penny Rose returns home as she moves in with her grandma and her brother, Wyatt; in their dilapidated house. She always wanted to open a café, to help support her family, but she realizes it is only a dream. Penny knows she needs to work and earn a pay check to make ends; and when her grandmother asks Ryder to help make renovations around their house; he agrees to help each evening fixing things. In a short time, Ryder finds himself attracted to Penny, and though she had an abusive boyfriend from the past, she does find herself getting to know Ryder and enjoying his company.

The slow-burn chemistry between them continues to grow. Penny is sweet and funny, as well as a hard worker. Ryder was so patient and kind with her, as he was determined to win her over, as she needed to begin to trust and heal from her ex. A strong bond developed between them, as they grew closer, with Penny finally letting her guard down. Both have the support of loving, pushy and nosy, families. It was refreshing that Ryder is the one who truly falls first.

He Falls First was a heartwarming, fun, emotional, great characters, family, banter and sweet romance. It was a slow-burn romance that had a lot of humor, and also a fun crazy parrot. He Falls First was very well written by Jill Shalvis, which has always been the norm for this wonderful author. Can’t wait to see who is next in this series.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher