“How long do you last in bed?” Those were her first words to me, swiftly followed up with, “And how big would you say you are?”Cue the record scratching, what?! Persephone Alexander. Math genius. Lover of blazers. The only girl I know who can make Heidi braids look sexy as hell. And she’s on a mission. Lose her virginity by the end of the semester. I walked in on her interview session for …
I walked in on her interview session for potential candidates (who even does that?) and saw straight through her brave front. She’s got a list of Firsts to accomplish like she’s only got months to live. I’ve decided to be her guide for all her firsts except one. Someone’s got to keep her out of trouble. I have one rule, no sex. We even shook on it.
I’ll help her find the right guy for the job. Someone like her doesn’t need someone like me and my massive…baggage for her first time.
Drinking at a bar. Check.
Partying all night. Double check.
Skinny dipping. Triple check.
She’s unlike anyone I’ve ever met. The walls I’d put up around my heart are slowly crumbling with each touch that sets fire to my soul.
I’m the first to bend the rules. One electrifying kiss changes everything and suddenly I don’t want to be her first, I want to be her only. But her plan was written before I came onto the scene and now I’m determined to get her to re-write her future with me.
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Reece was a really great guy and he really helped Seph so much mentally and emotionally. Overall it was a very warm read. It shows you that money doesn’t buy happiness and making ends meet and not having everything but love is what is important. This book has a very deep meaning and I loved how the guys all accepted Seph, especially when they were all jocks and she was so sheltered all her life.
One of my favorite reads for 2019
The Perfect First was the perfect book! I love how Maya Hughes writes a flawed, new adult, hero and turns him into a redeemable, loveable man. Reece Michaels turned into such a gentleman and was so easy to fall for it was hard to remember he needed a social coach in the beginning of the book.
Also, experiencing all the firsts with Seph, was like watching a child open presents at Christmas. The magic was infectious. Reading The Perfect First was infectious, unputdownable, complete romantic fun.
Reece MIchaels is on track for the NFL draft, but his college coach feels he needs some social skill finesse. If he really wants to make the first round draft, he needs to quit showboating and handle interviews better. When Reece arrives at the coffee shop, where he supposed to meet his media specialist coach, he takes a seat in the booth across from the only woman dressed up in a suit. It’s not until the questions take a strange turn that Reece begins to question who the football coach hired to help him out.
“Okay, this might seem a little invasive, but how long is your penis?”-Seph
Once Reece figures out that Seph isn’t there to be his media specialist, but there to find a guy to help de-virginize her he not only finds himself intrigued by the straightforward girl, but also a little afraid of who might actually answer her ad. Even though Reece is solely focused on football and doesn’t offer up his services right then and there, he can’t keep his thoughts off of Seph and he he eventually agrees to help her on one condition…no sex. He’ll help her cross off all other firsts on her list, but he won’t take the ultimate plunge, literally with her.
“Us seeing each other was about her list. Things I took for granted, she relished and stared at with wide-eyed excitement.”-Reece
Persephone “Seph” Alexander was looking to break out of the prison she lived in. Metaphorically that is. She has lived under a controlling father her entire life. For the first time, while attending Fulton University she has finally found some freedom, but her father wants to cut her time short and have her back home. Knowing her time is limited Seph creates a list of all the things she’s never done; eat greasy food, go to the movies, skinny dipping, eat breakfast for dinner, go on a date, lose her virginity, just to name a few.
“A virgin. I didn’t think those were still out in the wild once college started.”-Reece
Seph had always lived a calculated, precise life, so she went about finding a lover in the same manner, by placing an advertisement. Set up interviews, ask the right questions, and select the perfect candidate. It was going to be easy. Unfortunately, people don’t work exactly like mathematical equations. Thank goodness there are accidents when it comes to human beings and things don’t always work out perfectly. Reece thankfully was the perfect exception and Seph was glad he happened to sit across from her that day. He may not want her physically (bummer), but she’s glad he decides to befriend her (a first for her) and help her cross lots of other firsts off her list.
As Seph and Reece experience the simple joys in life, little did Reece know that not experiencing a big thing like sex would make Seph even more tempting to him. Perhaps he might want to renegotiate.
“She’d gotten so fully and completely under my skin, I didn’t know how I’d existed before I met her.”-Reece
“YOU ARE ENOUGH”
That line, right there, is the soul of the story in The Perfect First by Maya Hughes. On the surface it is a “college- football-star-meets- and -falls- in -love -with -the- nerdy- girl” story. But once you start reading it, you will get that it is so much more. Maya Hughes hit me hard and knocked me down with this empowering and inspiring story. A story beyond simple romance. A love larger than life. A bond stronger than anything.
So why is this story so amazing and brilliant and different from usual new adult love stories? The first strength is the lead characters. Reece and Seph has enthralled me, charmed me and bewitched me. We all love strong heroines. But reality needs some raw vulnerability and Seph has loads of them. A maths prodigy, a talented violin player and heart full of love but so lonely, so underappreciated and so ignored. She blossoms beautifully under Reece’s friendship and love. She is quirky, witty, straightforward and too much loving. Reece could have been a typical arrogant football jock that would get boring and repetitive. But Maya Hughes made him a well behaved sweet guy with just the right dose of cockiness and edginess. He has his own issues but the way he supported and encouraged Seph was so heartwarming.
Next beauty of the story was the incredible chemistry between Reece and Seph. From the awkward introduction to the cool friendship to the all consuming love, the journey was phenomenal! I revel in the love, the hate, the insecurity, the passion, the angst, the heartbreak, the goosebumps, the tears and just everything. And the secondary level of chemistry was between Reece and his roommates aka teammates. Some serious bromance is in the book and I loved to read the little tit bits about them!
The most important strenth of The Perfect First is writing of Maya Hughes. She effortlessly blends sharp-witted banter with powerful deep emotions. The story flows smoothly and the transition between different stages was on point. She made Reece and Seph totally relatable with real flaws. I loved the message she wanted to give us through the struggle and heartbreak of this young couple. Be yourself and accept yourself. Something all of us struggle with in some way.
The Perfect First by Maya Hughes is a perfect story of love and self belief. This heartbreaking story penetrated deep into my heart with its simple brilliance.
Received ARC for Honest Review
Reece agrees to help Seph with her list but has just one rule, no sex! But the more time he spends with Seph the more their relationship grows and he starts to rethink his one rule. This was an entertaining read. Reece and Seph were total opposites but we’re perfect for eachother. I really enjoyed this book, it was well written with an enjoyable storyline that will have you laughing and smiling. Highly recommend!
I received an advanced readers copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
Maya Hughes nailed it with The Perfect First! Seph and Reece are some of my favorite characters by her and the glimpse we got of the secondary characters this FU series is going to be amazing! Seph and Reece are everything! Beyond perfect for each other. Their chemistry is so natural and carefree, but also sexy and hot hot hot!! Seph, my heart just ached for her, but she is one tough girl! I was so happy for the person she inspired and transformed to be despite her obaticals and Reece was the perfect guide for her! He also transformed into someone much stronger while achieving his goals. The things he did for Seph was just so loving and touching. Their story will suck you in from start to finish, you will not be disappointed!!
This college romance was an excellent read. No one would think that a socially awkward maths genius and the top guy in college football on his way to the big leagues (NFL) would have anything in common. In fact, how would these two total strangers meet since they could never run in the same circles!
The Perfect First gives all the details, along with the characters that you will meet in college – the total bitch, the drinker, and even a few parents.
If you are looking for a read to remind you of college and its fun, awkward, growing pains, but also teach you a bit about life and taking steps into adulthood this is the story for you.
I received an ARC from the author.
The Perfect First is book one in Maya Hughes brand new series Fulton U and it was the PERFECT introduction into this world. The moment this story was announced I knew that I had to have it because it’s about a shy virgin and a sexy college football superstar! What fan of new adult romance wouldn’t love that?! Not a single one of them that’s who!
Reece and Seph’s story was sweet, sexy, hilarious, and swoon-worthy as f*ck! The moment I got confirmation that this book was available I dove right in and quickly found myself wholeheartedly captivated by this extraordinary page turner. Their heartwarming chemistry sent butterflies fluttering all throughout my body from the moment they met, which definitely goes down as one of the BEST first impressions I have ever read! Legit fell head over heels in LOVE with every beautifully consuming word.
Maya Hughes certainly delivers a phenomenal college romance with an unbelievably amazing group of characters that are complete one of a kind! This was hands down one of my favorite reads of the year and I am already eagerly anticipating the next book in the series, The Second We Met!
I enjoyed this book. It was written very well. I am looking forward to reading more from Maya.
I loved this one so much. The characters are fantastic and they suck you right into the book. This book had me from the beginning. Reece and Seph are just so cute together. They just made my heart happy sigh. I loved the way Reece was with Seph. She brought out the best in him. The other three teammates and friends of Reece caught me too. I can’t wait for them to get their stories. Seph is a little odd, but so endearing. Learning her back story broke my heart. It made it all the special with what she is finding with Reece. This book has it all that I look for in a book. I could hardly put this one down. This first book in the series started off with a bang!
I loved this book from the beginning. Two opposites find happiness through Seph’s list and Reece’s making them happen. Two people who seemed to have different goals from their time at the university could find happiness together was an amazing adventure.
4.5 Stars
I loved how Reese & Seph first met!
Prim and proper Seph posts a sex ad and Reese accidentally mistakes her for someone his coach had arranged for him to meet. The awkward meeting was the beginning of a friendship that turned into something much more. Reese first comes across as self absorbed & arrogant but quickly becomes a knight in shining honor when it comes to Seph. I loved how Reese fell so hard for Persephone & always tried building her confidence to show her that she was enough.
A whole new twist on fulfilling your bucket list. This book was hilarious at times. This is the first book in the Fulton U Series and definitely starts the series off on a high note. The characters are great and their chemistry is off the charts. Persephone (Seph) Alexander is a math genius who plans to graduate college by age nineteen. A little nerdy, but she quickly caught the attention of Reese, a campus sports hero who agrees to help her with all her firsts except taking her virginity. This book is well written and a delight to read. I read an advanced reader copy and voluntarily chose to write a review.
The socially backward girl and the big man on campus accidentally meet. She’s looking for a first lover, he’s looking for help with his press conferences. When he sits down at her table, she gives him an interview he won’t likely forget. I loved Reece and Seph. They come from two different worlds but have similar issues. They are both looking for approval and figuring out if they are enough. She is so schooled on everything but lacks experience. She analyses every little thing she wants to accomplish before going back to her parents iron fists. He is determined to make his father really see him and his talent on the football field. He has the experience but not the ability to analyze. The puzzle pieces they form individually make for a beautiful picture when they are together.
Her Bucket List
This slow burn friends-to-lovers romance was PERFECTION! I absolutely loved this story. The love that developed between Reece and Seph was filled with banter, fun and sexual tension that was incredibly HOT!
She was the nerdy girl. He was the jock. Their first meet up was hilarious and unforgettable. The friendship that developed was everything. He was protective, she was sheltered. He was a ladies man, she was completely clueless. They fit together like missing puzzle piece. All she wanted to do was live and check off items on her bucket list and Reece was just the man for the job.
Their love story was everything you wish for. They both had their demons to overcome, but together they had everything.
Two strangers that became friends in the most unconventional way. But when friendship was no longer enough, they became so much more. Their love was inevitable, but their fall was so much fun to witness. I absolutely fell in love with Seph and Reece and you will too! Funny, sexy, emotional, beautiful and filled with love. This was a new to me author and I cannot wait to read more of her stories! If you are a fan of NA romance, sexy football players or friends-to-lovers romance, then this is a MUST READ!
I dont even know where to start with this review! Seph and Reese. I relate so much to Seph it’s almost creepy, but I loved watching her break out of her shell while she was in college. Her determination was definitely something. I loved how Reese never judged her but always went through with her plans, and how easily his friends accepted her for who she is. Their relationship helped them see things in a new light and find out what they want for themselves, not what other want of them. I was sad when this book ended and want more! I’m super excited for the next book in the series!
I recieved an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Words that describe this story: endearing, adorable, sweet. amazing. At the beginning Reece comes off as a cocky guy. A little bit obnoxious for my taste with all that ego and obsession with his tennis shoes. But what a way to change the view! Kudos to Maya because he ends up winning me over with that big heart of his. Reece looks at Seph like she is a precious discovery. The amount of caring he has for her just pours out of his pores. He is concentrated on reaching his goals but not on the right path to get to them. And she inadvertently teaches him how to be a better friend and teammate, just by being her quirky self. She has this big craving for knowledge and new experiences. She has this need to live for her pleasure and not to live up to expectations.
This book touches the subject of abuse tastefully without it being in your face. Both characters have been neglected in one way or another. One of them belittled to the point of insecurities taking over. But Reece and Seph bloom in each others presence and that gives you as a reader a sense of satisfaction like no other. Because this characters grow and evolve. They don’t get stuck, they mature. It’s refreshing as a reader to go in this exploration of firsts with them and then understanding the importance of enjoying those moments and having those memories. This is a a beautiful story.
My first book by this author, but definitely not my last. I enjoyed this a lot overall. I’m giving it 4 out of 5 stars. This review is for an ARC, and reflects my honest opinion.
I’m all about sports romances, and this was no exception. There wasn’t as much sports stuff as I was expecting, but that was okay. I mostly just read these books for the hot players haha. I really liked Reece. I wasn’t 100% sure about him right in the beginning of the book, but he grew on me very quickly.
Persephone, or Seph as she liked to be called, was another great character. My heart went out to her, and everything she endured. I was so happy she met Reece and all the other people in his group. Some other really great characters in the book were Nix, LJ, and Beck. They made me smile and laugh!
There were two people I wanted to punch while reading this; I won’t say who, but if you’ve read this, you know who I’m talking about. I can’t wait for the next book in the Fulton U series. I know who the guy will be, and I’m 95% positive I know the girl too. I can’t wait to read more from Maya in the near future!
Seph and Reece were PERFECT! All of the swoons for Reece, he was sweet, loving, understanding, not to mention HOT… I definitely fell in love with their love. I enjoyed how it snuck up on them both (the love) and then it whacked them right in the face like a frying pan, no denying it even if they thought it would be better if they did. I really felt for Seph, growing up in a similar environment, its truly hard, especially in those formative years. I’d say more but I don’t want to spoil this for anyone, I went in without even reading the blurb (I never do with Ms Hughes’ books, I automatically know its a one click from me) its worth it, just get it lol.
Seph is a product of her environment. She has been controlled to think and act a certain way. Anything outside of perfection will not be tolerated.
Reece is trying to prove himself to everyone including his family. He is going to make it to the pros no matter what. He has worked so hard for this and his time has come to shine.
The way these two meet have to be the best meet cute ever. I was doubled over laughing so hard and couldn’t get over Seph having no filter. You never knew what was going to come out of her mouth. Her personality and innocence about everything makes her such a fun heroine.
These two develop a unique bond that turns into somewhat of a slow burn. They both know what they want, but refuse to act on it.
The secondary characters of this book helped make this book shine. They each added their own twist to make you more intrigued by their story. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series and see what happens next.
-An Arc was generously provided in exchange for an honest review.-