Book Review: He Falls First (Colburn Brothers, #1) by Sarah J. McBride
When I stumbled upon He Falls First, the first installment in the Colburn Brothers series by Sarah J. McBride, I was instantly intrigued by the juxtaposition of resilience and vulnerability in the characters’ lives. I’ve always been drawn to stories that blend a little humor with deep emotional threads, and this one promised just that. Plus, who can resist a tale where the hero falls first? As I dove into the lives of Ryder Colburn and Penny, I found myself not just captivated by their story, but also ready to explore a series rich with family dynamics and love.
Ryder Colburn is a man grounded in responsibility, balancing his time between running the family businesses and caring for his ailing father. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Penny, a spirited woman struggling to provide for her younger brother and grandmother while working a catering job—essentially making ends meet in a rundown house. Penny’s determination and her honest self-assessment as a “hot mess” evoked both warmth and sympathy. Both characters are beautifully layered; they’re flawed but undeniably relatable. McBride crafts them thoughtfully, allowing us to witness their struggles and growth.
The narrative oscillates between Ryder and Penny’s first-person perspectives, which I found particularly refreshing. It’s easy to connect with them, as their dialogue brims with genuine emotion and honest conversations. McBride brilliantly navigates the complexities of their lives, from their respective scars—childhood trauma, domestic violence, illness—to the moments of levity provided by Ryder’s adorable nephews, Abi and Alex. These little “tornadoes,” as their mom describes them, brought a much-needed splash of joy and laughter, making the heavier themes feel balanced.
While the plot is relatively simplistic—mostly serving as a foundation for the series—I appreciated how McBride dialed in on the essential elements: love, support, and healing. I found myself rooting for Ryder and Penny not only because of their palpable chemistry but due to their willingness to confront their flaws. Their discussions, even during conflicts, showcased a level of maturity that often feels absent in contemporary romances.
That said, there were moments I wished for a bit more backstory, particularly regarding Penny’s family dynamics. Exploring her mother’s absence could have offered deeper insights and enriched the narrative further. Despite some threads left open—promising future conflicts and resolutions—this did not detract significantly from my enjoyment.
The writing style is engaging, punctuated with sharp humor and heartfelt moments. The dialogue felt natural, and the more steamy scenes were tastefully done, flaunting a good balance of spice without overshadowing the story. The sprinkling of F-bombs also added an authentic touch, especially coming from a family of alpha brothers.
He Falls First is a heartwarming yet realistic exploration of love, family, and the importance of support systems. I believe this book will resonate with anyone who enjoys character-driven narratives that tackle dark themes while still delivering a sense of hope. If you appreciate stories where love blossoms amidst the challenges of life, then this is a must-read.
In short, I’m excited to see where McBride takes us next in the Colburn Brothers series. Here’s hoping for more of that delightful blend of warmth, humor, and genuine emotion. Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the eARC, and for allowing me to share my honest thoughts on this touching tale. Happy reading!
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