He Falls First by Jill Shalvis kicks off the new Colburn Brothers series. The story follows Ryder, the eldest Colburn brother, and Penny—the woman who unexpectedly steals his heart. Set in a tiny California town, He Falls First delivers a heartwarming and swoon-worthy romance.
Title: He Falls First
Author(s): Jill Shalvis
Series: Colburn Brothers #1
Published by Sourcebooks Casablanca on August 5, 2025
Pages: 352
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance
Source: Author
Format: eArc 
Purchase: Amazon|Audible
Rating: 
Series Rating:
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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.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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From the moment Ryder meets Penny, he feels instantly drawn to her. He recognizes a kindred spirit, as they both carry hurt from their pasts. Neither stands ready for a relationship, but the attraction between them burns hot and undeniable. Despite his fear, Ryder dives in carefully, giving Penny time to heal and learn to trust again.
The story shows Ryder’s childhood, filled with pain, hurt, and disappointment. Those hardships shape him into the protector and provider his siblings can always count on. I loved watching him interact with his siblings—the way they always back each other up. Their banter made me smile throughout, and their deep care for each other shines despite their flaws.
Penny stands out as a strong, resilient, and protective character. She experiences pain and heartache but continues to show up for the people she loves. Her flashes of humor make her easy to root for. I also adored her dynamic with her grandmother and younger brother. The three may not have everything figured out, but their love and loyalty shines through on every page.
Penny and Ryder balance each other perfectly. Ryder shoulders the weight of being a protector, while Penny fights to stand on her own. Together, they challenge each other in the best ways. Their chemistry sizzles, but their tenderness leaves readers swooning. Beneath the heat and banter, they build a deep sense of trust, and watching that unfold feels so satisfying.
He Falls First delivers an engaging and beautifully written story with healing, self-discovery, love, family, and friendship at its heart. Ryder and Penny’s journey blends tenderness and swoon-worthy romance with humor and heartfelt moments. I adored meeting the Colburn family and can’t wait to follow the brothers in the next books.
If you enjoy small-town romance with depth, heart, and plenty of swoon, pick up this book—it deserves a spot on your TBR.
About Jill Shalvis
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