Colburn Brothers, Book 1
From the publisher:
No one is going to convince her to fall in love again…
Penny Rose has 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.
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, independent woman. Maybe it’s the secrets in her eyes or the scar on her chin. Whatever the reason, he’s compelled to get closer.
“Readers of this funny, sweet, and sexy romance will be thrilled that Ryder has siblings, who will doubtless be featured in future adventures in Star Falls.” ― Booklist
He Falls First is a heartfelt, slow-burn contemporary romance infused with humor and warmth. Set in a charming small town in California, the story introduces Penny, a caterer who moves into her Gran’s run-down house to help raise her tween-age brother. Fresh off a painful breakup, Penny has sworn off men and romance, choosing instead to focus on her family, baking, and DIY home projects.
Enter Ryder Colburn, a man with equally full hands. Between caring for his ailing father, managing the family construction business, and wrangling his unruly brothers, romance is the last thing on his mind. There is a legend in this town that anyone who sees a shooting star with three stars will soon find their soul mate. When Ryder and his brothers witness the phenomenon, they all pretend they hadn’t seen it because romance isn’t on their radar. But when Ryder takes on Penny’s home improvement project, she captures not just his attention—but his heart completely. What follows is his spectacular fall into love.
One of the most refreshing aspects of the story is Ryder’s patience and the couple’s unconventional approach to romance. By removing the pressure of dating, they create space to truly understand each other—quirks, triggers, and all.
Penny’s journey is equally moving. She finds a sense of home not just in Ryder, but in his brothers and the eccentric small-town community that embraces her. The found family trope shines here, offering a comforting sense of belonging and acceptance. Watching Penny heal from past trauma—and seeing Ryder do the same—makes their love story all the more rewarding.
He Falls First marks a strong beginning to the Colburn Brothers trilogy. With not one but two epilogues teasing future installments, the story leaves readers eager for more. The writing is engaging and emotionally rich, balancing lighthearted moments with deeper themes of healing, trust, and love. This captivating romance comes highly recommended for readers who enjoy contemporary love stories seasoned with humor, wit, and genuine emotional depth.
9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch
HE FALLS FIRST by Jill Shalvis. Sourcebooks Casablanca. (August 5, 2025). ISBN: 978-1464243899. 352p.
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