Last First Kiss by Julian Winters | Book Review

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"THE STUFF ROMANCE DREAMS ARE MADE OF." - Ali Hazelwood, New York Times bestselling author

Sparks fly in this USA Today bestselling second chance rom com when an unlucky-in-love event planner realizes the man-of-honor at the high profile wedding he's planning is the same man who broke his heart.

They say you never forget your first kiss. But Jordan Carter wishes he could forget the one he shared with Jamie Peters as teens. And the one they almost shared again last year before Jamie made it clear he wasn’t the “right” man for Jordan to be with while he’s figuring himself out.

Now, Jordan’s fully focused on his career at 24 Carter Gold, his family’s event planning company, and ready to move on - until his boss assigns him to plan a new client’s high-profile wedding. The bride’s man-of-honor? None other than Jamie.

As things ramp up the closer they get to the wedding, so does Jordan’s relationship with Jamie, with sarcastic asides turning into steamy hook-ups. But can Jordan afford to pursue Jamie if he’s still unsure of who he is? Or is knowing who he loves enough? Venue shopping, cake-tastings, and dress fittings with the man he can’t forget just might change the man Jordan Carter is meant to become.

Last First Kiss by Julian Winters is a second chance romance about finding yourself–and the love of your life.

“A tender, slow burn romance about falling for your first crush, questioning your identity on your own terms, and finding your place in the world. Julian Winters delivers a sweet, funny, steamy, and uplifting love story that is sure to make readers swoon.” - Alexis Daria, USA Today bestselling author of You Had Me at Hola

"No one writes as vividly and as tenderly as Julian Winters, and Last First Kiss is his best yet. It's as sweet as an unexpected slow dance in a conservatory and as playful as a cake tasting turned flirty, and while Jordan and Jamie may have had their last first kiss, you'll be sighing happily over their firsts and lasts long after you close the book." - Julie Murphy and Sierra Simone, authors of A Jingle Bell Mingle

“Pure and utter fun, with a sparkling cast of characters and an effortlessly witty voice. Last First Kiss is a love letter to late bloomers, found family, and anyone who's still trying to figure themselves out — and a reminder that it can be an ongoing process.” - Rachel Lynn Solomon, New York Times bestselling author of What Happens in Amsterdam

I am so glad I read Last First Kiss by Julian Winters. This contemporary romance is such a sweet story. I love when a romance is intersectional, has compelling chemistry between the characters, and an interesting storyline. Initially, I was interested in reading Last First Kiss because I’ve enjoyed Prince Of Palisades as well as Right Where I Left You by the author. And so, I love when authors write for different age groups and in particular – I love when authors can succeed at writing both YA and adult romance. As it turns out, Last First Kiss is a wonderful read and it had me wanting to check out the other adult book from Winters, I Think They Love You.

Last First Kiss follows Jordan Carter who is in his twenties and working for the family business 24 Carter Gold. Jordan is vying for a promotion to events manager. However, in order to get the promotion, he will need to pull off planning a wedding and helping to put 24 Carter Gold back on the map as far as wedding events go. Jordan believes this should be a snap as he has excellent attention to detail and really has a way with people. However, things take a turn when it turns out the bride’s best man is Jamie Peters. Jamie was Jordan’s first kiss. The two had a thing, but Jamie kind of rejected Jordan. So, of course it is awkward for Jordan. However, he is determined to get the promotion and puts his all into the planning, even if it means being around Jamie a lot. Complicating matters even more is new hire Javier who is coming for Jordan’s promotion – so Javier has an enemies thing going on with Jordan.

I really loved Jordan’s character. He feels authentic to someone in his twenties. He’s still growing and exploring his identity – as a queer Black man. I loved how this story portrays Jordan’s demisexuality. To be honest, I felt like I knew before it was confirmed. However, as readers, we are brought into Jordan’s realization. Also, I liked the chemistry between Jordan and Jamie. I think that Jordan holds himself to exalting standards and always wants to be the best. Jamie mellows him out. It was sweet reading the scenes between them — even the steamy scenes. Last First Kiss is compelling, engaging, and has wonderful characterization. From the beginning, at Jordan’s disastrous first date, I was drawn in. Also — sidebar, Jordan’s family is amazing and I already find myself ready to pick up I Think They Love You. Also! The setting of Atlanta gets a lot of love in this book as well and as someone for whom setting matters – I find myself VERY HIGHLY URGING YOU TO READ THIS BOOK.

@aprilbooksandwine

I felt so engaged while reading Last First Kiss by Julian Winters. It kept my attention while I was walking on the treadmill and I adored the characters. @St. Martin’s Press @Julian Winters

♬ original sound – April Books & Wine

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April (Books&Wine)

April is in her 30s and created Good Books And Good Wine. She works for a non-profit. April always has a book on hand. In her free time she can be found binge watching The Office with her husband and toddler, spending way too much time on Pinterest or exploring her neighborhood.

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