When I First Met You by Lori Foster: Review

I’ve read so many stories by this author, and they’re always such a treat. She strikes a perfect balance of romance, suspense, and danger to bring out all the feelings. This book is a great example of that.

This is part of a series, so I do recommend you read book one, Let Me Be the One, first. I did not, and I struggled a little bit with who was who and the connections between all of the people.

But the book overall was a great read. Check out my thoughts below.

Disclaimer: Affiliate Link included
When I First Met You by Lori Foster
Publisher: ‎ MIRA
Publication date: ‎ July 14, 2026
ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0778306245

OVERVIEW:
When Glory McCallahan’s cousin moved to Hoker, Kentucky, she felt like she’d lost her best friend. Then, Callie fell in love. To help with wedding arrangements, Glory joins her, but after, the plan is to get back to her perfectly ordered life. Glory has always played it safe, keeping her polished smile in place and her heart on lockdown. No way is she going to let the rugged, too-handsome younger brother of her cousin’s new husband mess with her plans. No matter how infuriating, irreverent, and impossible to ignore Kam may be.

Kam Norwood sees past Glory’s flawless surface, and when he notices she’s being accosted by a wedding guest, he gallantly steps in. What starts as a pretend rescue turns into a night of unexpected sparks. Kam’s not afraid of Glory’s sharp edges—or her secrets. So when the rejected guest turns out to be Glory’s angry ex and things escalate, Kam’s protective instincts kick in big-time.

Turns out, the sizzling attraction may be the one thing that can keep them both safe.

When I First Met You by Lori Foster Review

I really enjoy reading romance with a bit of suspense added in. While this book is not really classified as such, Foster adds in that touch of drama through stalker issues to boost the adrenaline with the storyline. It adds the perfect engaging vibe.

This story is all about found family and the interwoven new connections between members of the family. Using forced proximity to strengthen the bond and level up the protectiveness, the main characters try to fight off the attraction growing between them. Our main male character is so sweet, and I love that he seemingly falls first, but she is right there as well.

Foster adds plenty of other characters to balance the found family trope, who are delightful. This adds some lightness and fun to the story. I loved the grumpy neighbor next door, especially. Most of the story focuses on our developing romance.

When I First Met You is a sweet story with insta-love vibes that is light and full of heart. But read book one first. For me, it was tough to get into, as the author assumes you know everyone.

4 STARS!!

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links have been included – Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review, but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest, and your opinions may differ.