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.
About The Author
My Review
At the heart of the novel is Ryder Colburn—stoic, grounded, and quietly heroic—who has spent his life protecting his younger siblings from the shadows of their traumatic upbringing. His emotional intelligence and patience make him the perfect counterpart for Penny, a woman freshly out of an emotionally abusive relationship and trying to reclaim her sense of self.
What makes this story shine is the slow-burn trust and genuine care that builds between Ryder and Penny. Ryder never pushes; instead, he gives Penny space, and in doing so, helps her rebuild her confidence and belief in love. Their chemistry simmers, but it’s the emotional connection that gives this romance its true depth.
Overall, He Falls First explores themes of trauma and healing with grace, striking a thoughtful balance between emotional depth and lightness that allows space for genuine growth without weighing the story down.
My Rating
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