He Falls First is classic Jill Shalvis, with a little more grit and heart than some of her past titles, and I loved every second of it.

This is the start of her new Colburn Brothers series, and let me just say that Ryder Colburn is the kind of book boyfriend we don’t get enough of. Broody but gentle, tough exterior with a gooey, protective center. He’s dealing with the trauma of his past while trying to do the right thing, even if it means caring for the very person who caused him and his siblings so much pain. You just feel for him.

Penny is a strong FMC. She’s back in her hometown trying to pick up the pieces after an abusive relationship, caring for her family, and trying to get her feet back under her. She’s funny, independent, and guarded, and totally not ready to fall for someone like Ryder. And yet, she does. But what’s refreshing here is that he falls first. And he falls hard. Hence the title.

Their chemistry is undeniable but slow burning in a believable way. Ryder is so patient and kind with her, and Penny’s journey toward trust and healing felt really honest. I appreciated how their shared trauma didn’t turn into drama, but instead became a quiet bond between them.

Also, shoutout to the quirky side characters (Pika-boo the budgie might’ve stolen a few scenes), and the Colburn family setup has me so excited for what’s to come in the series. There’s definitely a solid foundation here for future books, and I’m already placing bets on who ends up with who.

A couple of things felt a little rushed toward the end, but overall, this was heartfelt, healing, and exactly what I wanted from a small town romance with depth.

Thank you to NetGalley, Jill Shalvis, and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the eARC of this book.