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Heartbreak Hotel #1

Our Last First Kiss

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Welcome to the famed resort, The Hathaway at Dragonfly Beach, where newlyweds come to honeymoon, where anniversary couples celebrate milestones, and where broken hearts find a place to heal.

After her best friend is jilted at the altar, maid of honor Lilly Durand whisks the bride to Dragonfly Beach and its legendary hotel, determined to help her overcome her misery. Lilly won’t admit it, but she’s hurting too. During the few days of pre-wedding festivities, a powerful attraction had grown between her and the handsome and confident best man, Alec Thatcher. Now she’ll never see him again, but she’s decided to consider that a good thing. This way her inconvenient crush can’t turn into something so dangerous as love. But then, to her dismay, she discovers Alec is just a room key away at what some call the Heartbreak Hotel.

Alec Thatcher doesn’t have the time or inclination for long-term romance. Serial dating has suited his confirmed-bachelor status just fine—until he meets Lilly Durand and his world turns on its axis. She claims to be as relationship-averse as he, but when the two of them are together he can’t recall his own reasons against commitment. Though Lilly touches his heart and soul, she’s as cautious as she is sexy. With a stubborn streak a mile long, Alec will have to exert all his powers of persuasion to give Lilly her last first kiss...

First published March 27, 2018

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Christie Ridgway

168 books1,033 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,121 reviews1,764 followers
March 26, 2018
Favorite Quotes:

No expert on male attractiveness, Alec had to take his sister’s word for it that Jacob was what she termed a “California dime.” Jojo used a bunch of weird-ass lingo possibly understood only by herself, but he was told it meant a ten on the apparently higher, California scale of handsomeness.

Alec attended every one of Barbie’s funerals I ever organized, after Simon declared them lost causes post-surgery… Well, except for that time Simon pronounced Ken hadn’t survived an appendectomy. Alec said he refused to even pretend-mourn for a guy who came into the world without a dick... Simon said that’s why he hadn’t attempted any heroic measures to save the doll. Dick-less, he informed us, meant an automatic do not resuscitate.

I think you should let me be something to you. I want you to be something to me.

…they swayed together to some old tune that made her think of black-and-white movies and the kind of love that survived wartime separation and bouts of tap-dancing.


My Review:


I enjoyed this wittily amusing book as I have other Christy Ridgway book, I adore her clever humor and entertaining storylines that always manage to squeeze my heart in one paragraph then incite a smirk or a smile in the next. I was drawn to all the characters as well as the featured couple. Lilly and Alec had both known tragedy and were endearingly flawed and appealing characters to root for. I enjoyed their romance and look forward to more adventures at the lovely resort that had earned the myth of being the Heartbreak Hotel.
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews842 followers
March 27, 2018

Our First Last Kiss begins the new Heartbreak Hotel series by Christie Ridgway and it was delightfully entertaining. Whisking away her best friend, a left at the altar bride, to the Heartbreak Hotel seems like a good idea until she runs into the ex-groom’s best man who left her feeling more than flustered from just one kiss. Promises of no strings, casual fun are broken when these two people begin to realize that the life they thought they wanted was just a ruse. Lots of great banter, a runaway puppy, and sexy times abound in Our Last First Kiss.

Lilly Duran wants nothing more than to help her best friend move past the man that broke her heart and stole her dreams so with Audra’s father’s credit card and blessing she checks them into a hotel known for people moving past their broken hearts and finding love or celebrating love, but Audra does nothing but lock herself in her room. The last person Lilly expects to run into at this hotel is Alec Thatcher, the would be best man and a man who makes her want to forget that she is not made to be loved.

I appreciated that both Lilly and Alec had shut themselves off from love; Lilly thinking she doesn’t want the heartache that comes with it and Alec thinking he wasn’t deserving of it. Their chemistry was undeniable and they fought it all while spending time together and learning more and more about each other each day. I loved how Alec’s family kind of surrounded Lilly and showed her that not all family’s are like the one she was raised in and that sometimes bad things happen to good people, but with love, trust, and caring they can overcome it.

It always pleases me when characters show growth during a book and there was no doubt both of these characters did, but Alec most certainly made some big discoveries about himself and wasn’t afraid to admit them and convince Lilly that he would be by her side the whole way.

A feel good love story with characters that will capture your heart, I loved Our Last First Kiss.
Profile Image for Cheryl Whitty.
904 reviews14 followers
March 29, 2018
Reviewed on behalf of http://bookaddict.live,
This is the first book in a new series called Heartbreak Hotel, where you go to get over your heartbreak. In this case we meet Lilly who has come with her friend Audra, who was left at the altar. Lilly is very worried about Audra when her locks herself in her room and doesn’t come out. All Lilly can think about was the best man Alec Thatcher, and the near miss with the chemistry between them.
Lilly is unaware that Alec is related to the family who own the resort, and his parents are celebrating 35th wedding anniversary with a weeklong celebration with friends and family.
It was entertaining to watch Lilly and Alec both only wanting a non-serious sexual encounter. Both have reasons not to become serious, but love waits for no one. A sweet and at times funny romance that leaves you with a smile on your face.
A great start to a new series, where the scene was set in a lovely backdrop of the Heartbreak Hotel, and some of the characters that run the place.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Donna (BookDragonGirl).
1,107 reviews8 followers
March 27, 2018
This is such a great start to a wonderful new series of books about the Heartbreak Hotel. The emotion and angst this couple were feeling. She being so afraid of heartbreak, that she stayed clear of falling in love. Having an upbringing that made her feel unloveable. She steers clear of any kind of relationships, knowing it would just lead to her broken heart. Then Alec too isn’t a stranger to pain and heartache. So he isn’t interested in anything more than one-night stands. But the magic of the Heartbreak Hotel does it’s thing to bring them together. It’s so beautiful and so touching.

The characters were so beautifully written and very complex. Christie always writes such emotionally moving stories, with characters that you can’t help but get emotionally attached to. This was one of those stories for me.

The secondary characters were great and I look forward to reading some of their stories, as the Heartbreak Hotel series goes on!
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,012 reviews438 followers
March 26, 2018
Our Last First Kiss is the story of two people who did not want to have a relationship; they were determined to keep things light & short term. After her best friend, Audra was jilted at the altar by text message; Lilly Durand suggests a visit to The Hathaway Resort, which is also known as Heartbreak Hotel. Audra’s family jump at the chance to get her there and help her heal from her heartbreak. They immediately book the trip and get the rooms set up. When they arrive, Audra not doing so well and won’t remove her wedding gown or venture from their suite. In the meantime Lilly is left to her own devices. Lilly remembers the instant chemistry she had with the best man, Alec. Lilly thinks she is doomed to never have love in her life because she never knew her father and her own mother left her to run off with some creep. To add insult to injury, she was raised by her aunt and uncle and cousin, who treated her pretty bad and never showed her any love. Because of her she was raised, Lilly thinks she is unlovable and puts her hopes and dreams away and locks them down tight. Alec himself is no stranger to pain and loss. isn’t interested in anything more than one-night stands. However when he runs into Lilly at the hotel, he think maybe kismet or fate is at work and maybe its time to unlock his heart but if he thinks Lilly will be an easy woman to bring around to woo, he will need to think again. Will Alec and Lilly open their hearts to love or will they forever be closed off to giving love a chance? This is a sweet and steamy romance read that does have an HEA ending. I loved the main characters, the secondary characters, and the backdrop for the story. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series “ Me and Mr. Jones” which is Audra and Kane’s story.

My Rating: 4.5 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."
Profile Image for Tania's Book Blog.
1,639 reviews19 followers
March 27, 2018
Alec was the best man of the runaway groom and Lilly the maid of honor and best friend of the jilted bride. Alec and Lilly had in common that they weren’t looking for a relationship and to Leto things simple.

Alec didn’t win over Lilly immediately. It took lots of swooning to get her where he wanted but she wasn’t stupid. She had trust issues and some insecurities and Alec had fears. As time passed feelings were developing but Lilly couldn’t see past her old fears to move forward. Surprisingly Alec was able to see past those fears and fight for her. This was a cute read and great way to start a series.
Profile Image for LaGina.
1,961 reviews40 followers
April 22, 2018
Sweet and angsty wrapped up in these pages, what more can a girl ask for? Lily and Alec have a push and pull attraction for each other that you can see from the start. My heart went out to poor Lily because off what she has been through. I liked the idea of some place where the broken heart can go to heal and maybe find love. I cant wait to see where this series will go.
Profile Image for Amanda  B Gillespie.
512 reviews14 followers
March 27, 2018
As much as I wanted to like this book, I just had a hard time. It was slow and the theme was repetitive. By the end, it seemed like the author realized it needed to end and changed the whole thing from Lily being a commitment romance phobe to the complete opposite.
Profile Image for Karen.
437 reviews
March 27, 2018
Loved this first book in a new series by Christie. It was so well written, emotional, deep feelings, and just amazing!

Lily Durand had a rough life growing up and it has shaped her into the woman she is today. She has a tough outer shell that takes a lot of time to crack and even then she may not let you in all the way. But when she does, it is forever.
Lily brings her best friend to The Hathaway at Dragonfly Beach after her fiance ditched her at the alter. Her friend needs to decompress and deal with what happened and Lily feels running to the resort that is known to heal broken hearts is the right place to go.

Alec Thatcher is a work-a-holic, close to his family, and a past play boy. He lost someone real special to him and has never really healed or moved on. Lily comes along and helps him feel again and maybe move on with his grieving.

Alec turns up at The Hathaway since his parents are celebrating 35 years of marriage. He runs into Lily and makes sure that while they are both there that they spend lots of time together and get to know each other better. Well they sure learned each other better in all the right ways!

Lily does not know how to do relationships and is scared that she will never be enough for Alec and that her past will come back to haunt her and any relationship she has. Alec just thinks he is out to have a good time, but little does he know his heart has other ideas.

Lily and Alec have some major chemistry and even with Lily always running away, since that is all she knows, Alec keeps chasing her and he finally catches her and convinces her to stay.

These two were so great to read. I really loved getting to know Alec and his family and the way Lily was able to handle her family and finally put her foot down.

I will admit in the beginning I was not a fan of Lily, but once we found out how she grew up and how things really were for her as a child, it made so much sense for her to be the way she is. I then started to love her when she met up with Buster. You really got to see a much softer side of her and not the wall she has erect all around her. It was great to see growth between these too and for Alec to be so patient.

Great start to a new series! I can't wait to read more of The Hathaway at Dragonfly Beach books!
Profile Image for Crystal.
1,096 reviews30 followers
March 20, 2018
This is the first book I’ve read by Christie Ridgway and I can’t wait to read the next in this new contemporary romance series.
Audra was jilted at the altar by her fiancé through a text message. Lilly, Audra’s best friend and maid of honor whisks Audra away to the Hathaway at Dragonfly Beach resort with the help of Audra’s parents to get away. Since arriving, Audra has barricaded herself in her room, still wearing her wedding gown and wallowing in self-pity.
Lilly spends some of her time roaming the grounds of the resort only to repeatedly run into Alec, the man who was supposed to be the best man in Audra’s wedding. He’s there with his extended family (some of which own the resort) to celebrate his parents anniversary. Even though she’s attracted to him with every fiber of her being, she doesn’t want anything to do with him. Lilly’s life is vastly different to all these people. She was abandoned as a baby and her aunt and uncle reluctantly took her in, treating her like she was nothing. She grew up surrounded by losers and abusers, all the while being told, “That’s how Durand’s love”. It’s so ingrained in her brain that she believes she will never find love like other people do. Not only does her family treat her like crap, she’s their cash cow. She’s constantly being harassed for money, so much so that a big portion of everything she earns goes to her aunt, uncle, and cousin, while they barely work. When she’s not immediately forthcoming with the cash, they guilt her and make her feel like nothing. She uses this to keep others at arm’s length. All except her very best friend Audra and her family.
Alec has grown up surrounded by a loving family and is looking for someone to spend his time with. He’s witty and charming, a smooth talker who knows what he wants and right now he wants Lilly. Will he be able to break through her tough exterior and find that heart she’s buried deep inside?
Ms. Ridgway’s writing is witty and charming. There were several times I laughed out loud at the banter between Lilly and Alec. She has a way of writing that makes the characters seem real and make you want to be their friend. I can’t wait to read others in this series because I don’t want to leave the resort or the Hathaway’s yet.
845 reviews
April 2, 2018
I received a free complimentary book and voluntarily reviewed it.

I am a big fan of Christie Ridgway, but Our First Last Kiss is so fantastic that I, now, consider it one of my favorite books of hers. It is the first book in a new series, Heartbreak Hotel. This is the story of two troubled people who must overcome their anguish from life’s experiences, and the resulting fear to get close to anyone, in order to find each other.

The book’s action starts immediately from the first chapter, and the pacing never seems to slow down. The story begins when Lily Durand’s best friend, Audra, is jilted. They check into a hotel that is known as the Heartbreak Hotel to help Audra with her pain. While there, Lily meets the groom’s best man, Alec Thatcher. She had already met him at the wedding venue, and they had discovered an instant attraction. However, because there was no actual wedding, they each left to go their own direction.

Christie Ridgway skillfully draws us into the lives of this couple who do not want to get involved but can’t seem to stay away from each other. They enter this relationship slowly and with much apprehension. However, the author does allow them to totally block themselves off, so the readers are very aware that Lily and Alec are falling in love.

At the end of the book, Ms. Ridgway, does not stop keeping us involved. She writes an interesting letter to her readers. She suggests we listen to a song that inspired her while she was writing this story. She, then, continues and explains who and what the second book in this series is about. I cannot wait to read it!
Profile Image for Pam .
1,442 reviews13 followers
March 17, 2018
Our Last First Kiss is the story of two people that were determined to keep things light & short term. Lily is an orphan that was raised by her aunt,uncle & cousin. They were the perfect example of how not to have a relationship. Lily was told "This is how a Durand loves." She doesn't want that pain, hurt or fear so she's determined never to love someone. That works until Alec. How can she hold out against that attraction? Can't he see she doesn't fit with his happy loving family?

Alec has gone through life staying single & avoiding anything that smacks of long term. He doesn't have any to go through the pain of losing someone. It's just easier not to let your heart get involved. He didn't count on Lily & their explosive attraction. For once, what he wanted isn't falling into his lap. Did he want to work for it or let her get away?

I really enjoyed watching the give & take between these two. They both had their reasons for being wary of love & relationships. They just had to decide which was stronger - their fear of hurt & pain or their love for each other & the possibility of a future. Lily's interactions with Alec's family enhanced the reader's understanding of her emotions & the draw of being part of a big loving family. Her reactions to his family & to the puppy showed the capacity she had for love even though she thinks she's not capable of it. Between the emotional draw & the wonderful characters, I think this is my favorite of Ms. Ridgway's books!
Profile Image for Kim Owens.
160 reviews
March 28, 2018
Our Last First Kiss is the first Christie Ridgeway book that I have read. It was a fast, easy, touching read with all the elements required to make a great romance!
After her best friend, Audra was jilted at the altar (through a text message, of all things), Lilly Durand suggests a visit to The Hathaway Resort, also know as Heartbreak Hotel. The resort is a popular place for honeymooners, those celebrating special occasions, and more recently known for healing heartbreak. Audra’s family jumps on the suggestion and her father thoughtfully makes all the arrangements.
While Audra won’t remove her wedding gown or venture from their suite, Lilly is left to her own devices. She is trying to forget the connection that she has with the best man, Alec. Lilly never knew who her father was, her mother abandoned her to run off with some low-life, never to be seen again, and she was raised by an aunt, uncle, and cousin, who were less than loving. She learned at a young age to hide and not be seen, as her aunt and uncle fought like cats and dogs. Because of her upbringing, Lilly doesn’t feel that she is worthy of others, and locks her hopes and dream away.
Alec, no stranger to loss, isn’t interested in anything more than a one-night stand, and has spent the last several years trying not to feel; however, when he runs into Lilly at the resort, he wonders if he was wrong to lock himself away and bury himself in his work. He won’t find Lilly an easy conquest, though!
The characters in this story are rich and vibrant, well-developed and easy to fall in love with. The story evokes a lot of emotion, and I laughed at the snarky personality of Lilly, I cried at the pain Alec’s family must have experienced.
All in all, this was a very enjoyable read, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a HEA that will make you sigh with contentment. I look forward to the rest of the Heartbreak Hotel Series!
3,433 reviews16 followers
March 31, 2018
Different California locale and different story-line but Our Last First Kiss by Christie Ridgway still has the in-depth character study I have come to expect in her books. Alec and Lilly are not strangers to hardships or tragedies. As Lilly points out about Alex’s family, they are survivors but then so is she.

Sometimes funny, sometimes serious and at times it points out the randomness of heartache in this life. While there are some wrong assumptions about some of the good guys there is none concerning the bad guys, they are just plain old sorry, sorry, sorry. I like that about Ms. Ridgway’s books. Anther thing I like are the complex supporting characters who I can hardly wait to see if they get their own HEA. Let the intervention begin! Also, I would love to go back 35 years, having Alex’s parents story fleshed out. There is a hint of their story in “the movie night” with the French fry but I would love more.

It may be named Our Last First Kiss but there is more than just kissing in this story. There are some steamy intimate scenes between Lilly and Alex. I found it to be an excellent first book of the new series. It is a stand-alone story with a satisfying conclusion.

An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Marcia.
1,741 reviews28 followers
March 18, 2018
A new series by one of my favorite romance authors. Wealthy, beautiful, sweet Audra Montgomery has been left at the altar by the man she expected to spend the rest of her life with. With the encouragement (and credit card) of Audra's parents, her best friend Lilly Durand, whisks her away to The Hathaway at Dragonfly Beach, recently dubbed Heartbreak Hotel. Lilly is the opposite of Audra.
she was born to an unwed mother, who abandoned her at birth. Her grandmother gave her aunt and uncle money to raise her, but they were mentally abusive and still have not let her forget that she "owes them". While Audra mourns in her room, Lilly explores the hotel and runs into Alec Thatcher, best man to the run away groom. The entire Thatcher family is at the hotel celebrating Alec's parents 35th wedding anniversary. And while the Thatchers seem to have a wonderful life, they are still recovering from a tragedy 5 years ago. Alec has closed himself off, while Lilly does not believe that anything will ever happen to her. But as the week progress, they are drawn to each other and without giving away the story, they get their HEA. As always, endearing characters with some tragic back story that they need to overcome.
Profile Image for Eileen.
2,086 reviews
April 1, 2018
I really loved Our Last First Kiss by Christie Ridgway, the first book in her new Heartbreak Hotel series. After her best friend was left at the altar, Lily Durand takes her to The Hathaway, a res ort known for healing broken hearts. Lily is also hurting after a strong attraction had begun between her and the handsome best man, Alec Thatcher, knowing she wouldn’t see him again. Life doesn’t always work the way we expect as Lily discovers Alec and his family is also staying at the Heartbreak Hotel. Alec has been a serial dater, having no time or desire for a long-time romance. That is until he meets Lily and she throws him off his game. Although Lily is against long-term relationships she touches Alex’s heart and soul. Lily is cautious with reason, but Alec is determined and uses all his powers of persuasion to give Lilly her last first kiss. Alec and Lily are a perfect fit together.

Ms. Ridgway is a wonderful story teller, making me feel as if I was right there. Her books draw me in, making me forget the world around me, not wanting to put the book down until I turned the last page. I highly recommend this book to other readers and look forward to the next book in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Profile Image for Marie  Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads).
2,744 reviews53 followers
March 26, 2018
Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:

Bubbling with passion and romance, Our Last First Kiss is a book that will stick with a reader long after they finish it! It has compassion, wonderful characters, a fantastic plot, this is exactly the kind of romance that dreams are made of!

I adore a persistent hero. Not the kind that ends up being slick and creepy but one like Alec, who is charming, sweet, just oozes sensuality and can make you smile and sigh all in one breath. I fell in love with him and Lilly..oh, he gives him a run for his money and it was AMAZING. And this cover...oh I haven't seen a cover that took my breath away quite like this one did. It smolders with both passion and desire and also just seems to call to my heart. Now the story...scrumptious! Just like with the cover, it called to me from beginning to end. It made me sigh and giggle and fall head over heels in love. It was cute, sassy, and made me dream of happily ever after. It was just like a fairy tale, downright beautiful!

Our Last First Kiss gets a FIRE WORKS EXPLODING LIKE THE FOURTH OF JULY FIVE SHOOTING STARS!
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Blog.
4,523 reviews243 followers
March 27, 2018
Our Last First Kiss was such a great book! I really enjoyed the story line and the characters were ones that drew me in and made me want to know more about them. The way the book is written kept me guessing about what exactly had gone on to get the characters where they are, but everything is eventually explained. I loved getting to read both Lilly and Alec's points of view. It makes me really feel as though I am right in the story.



Lilly has such a heartbreaking past and that has her guarding her heart against any chance at love. Believing that she is undeserving, she closes herself off and refuses to give into the deep desires of her heart. When Alec comes along he is instantly drawn to her and can feel the spark of chemistry that ignites between them. Since he considers himself an eternal bachelor this catches him off guard for sure.

Filled with a little bit of drama, a dash of suspense and some pretty steamy moments this book had me hooked right from the start. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen and how Alec planned on breaking down Lilly's walls.

I can not wait for the next book in this series! A must read book for sure! - By Alisa
Profile Image for Cathy.
677 reviews2 followers
March 28, 2018
Two imperfect people, neither "thinking" they want a relationship. What happens when you are so drawn to someone that you begin to question what you thought you wanted. I love this story of Lilly and Alec. Lilly whisks her best friend a jilted bride, away to the Heartbreak Hotel. Of course she runs into Alec, and sparks burn up the pages. You may laugh out loud at parts, and some make you gasp and some you feel so sad and want to cry.

This is a book about finding yourself and going after what makes you happy. I loved seeing both Lilly and Alec grow throughout this story, watching their ideas change and grow and them realizing that sometimes LOVE is what makes you happiest and that they do deserve it. And I love that it took time for them to really get together and that through all of that we saw them building a friendship.

This author does a great job of drawing you into the story, you will love the main characters, the secondary characters and the hotel and guests and you will wish you could stay there and be a part of all of it. Overall it is a sweet and slightly steamy read that will leave you smiling by the end. I can't wait to read the rest of this series!
Profile Image for Anne Kulasa.
84 reviews1 follower
March 30, 2018
This is the first book in the new series written by Christie Ridgway, and as usual she does not disappoint. I loved this book and Alec and Lily's story. She was the Maid of Honor for her college roommate and best friend Audra's wedding that never happened, and he was the Best Man. After the wedding that never was, Lily takes Audra to the Hathaway at the Dragonfly Resort, also known as the Heartbreak Hotel, to rest and recoup, unbeknownst to her that Alec was there with his family, Uncle owns the hotel, to celebrate his mom and dad's 35th wedding anniversary. With the help of Lily's bad sense of direction and a runaway puppy, Buster (got to love him!), Lily and Alec find each other together and their chemistry is explosive and very hot!. Both have a hard time opening their hearts due to personal problems, but together they find that true love cannot be denied. Christie's writing again has the power to grab your heart and not let go. I cannot wait for the next book and read how Audra finally gets her HEA with Alec's cousin Kane. I highly recommend this book and this series and anything written by Christie. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Viper Spaulding.
2,983 reviews23 followers
March 27, 2018
Despite Lilly's traumatic upbringing, she's strong, resilient, and a great friend to Audra. Alec's tragic loss was more recent, but no less life-altering. I loved the chemistry between these two; Alec was perfectly patient when he needed to be, yet willing to risk doing what she says she doesn't want when he figures out what she needs. Lilly has huge trust issues, but she was able to draw on Alec's strength when she gets to know him.

There was a lot of humor in this book, many poignant and insightful observations, and fascinating secondary characters that start to write their own books right before your very eyes. The love scenes were hot but not too explicit; whether that's a good or bad thing depends on each reader's preference. The most emotional and vivid scene for me was viewing the compilation movie at the party. It perfectly captured a family's journey over the years and was brilliantly effective at bringing all Alec's and Lilly's emotions to the surface. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Gladys.
12k reviews137 followers
March 24, 2018
Sometimes a book sneaks up and surprises you. For me this was one such book. I found this to be a beautiful, poignant romance. Characters are deeply developed and the storyline is interesting and engaging. Lilly and Alec are the featured potential couple in this book. I loved both these characters. Alec is sexy, charming and totally sure of what he wants and what he doesn't....until he meets Lilly. Lilly is the type of character that will reach into your chest and just squeeze your heart. The life that she has led, the way her family treats her and the terrible thoughts and feelings they have made her feel about herself are just heartbreaking. Will Alec's overabundance of charm and pure determination ever be enough to break down the walls that Lilly has erected after the years of neglect and abuse that her family has inflicted upon her? Grab this wonderful Read to see for yourself. I'm posting a completely honest, voluntary review after reading this book.
Profile Image for Terri.
1,973 reviews41 followers
March 25, 2018
This is a great start to a new series! It takes in a hotel that is somewhat known for where people go to recover from a broken heart. Lilly has gone there with her best friend, the supposed to be bride. By accident, the best man at the wedding that never happened is there too. There are definite sparks between Lilly and Alec, but she is determined to ignore them and make him go away. Fortunately for us, that doesn't happen!
This story has humor, sizzle, romance, family and a puppy. What more could you possibly want? I love the humor and Lilly's really bad sense of direction set me off laughing as much as what happens to the wedding dress (you've got to read this at least to discover the creative use of the wedding dress)! There were also some hard things in this book. Lilly's "family" was just awful. I so wanted them to get what was coming to them!
This series should be fun. I can't wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Amy Stephens.
Author 126 books523 followers
March 27, 2018
Christie Ridgway has become one of those authors I go to when I'm in the mood for a heartwarming story. Her Heartbreak Hotel Series is off to a great start with Our Last First Kiss and I can't wait for the other stories to come out.

Alec and Lily's story was a different take on relationships--two people who steered clear of commitment because of painful pasts. There was something about the Heartbreak Hotel, though, something magical, that's hard to resist. This story touched on several of my emotions and I loved the bit of angst that this author is known for adding to her stories. Our Last First Kiss was just an all-around good read that had great supporting characters with stories of their own. It was a simple read, nothing complex that weighed heavily on me or made me think too much into the story line.

I was able to devour it in one afternoon. I can always count on Christie Ridgway to deliver a story that's sure to leave a smile on my face when I'm finished.
Profile Image for Julia David.
2,112 reviews17 followers
March 25, 2018
I am looking forward to the other stories in this series after reading this one. I like all the characters and can't wait to see what will happen with them. I also like the setting. I used to live in Santa Barbara and can really imagine how it all looks. Lilly's best friend, Audra, was jilted at the altar. The guy sent a text to call off the wedding. So, Lilly and Audra check into the Hathaway Hotel to regroup. While Audra is holed up in her room, Lilly is out exploring and runs into Alec. Alec was to be the best man and Lilly was very attracted to him. She knows nothing can come of the attraction, but she wants to dream just a little. Alec has been just a one night stand kind of guy for quite a while, but after meeting Lilly, he is rethinking that. Will they be able to change? Do they want to change?
659 reviews6 followers
March 28, 2018
I want to stay at The Hathaway or as it is known, the Heartbreak Hotel. I love coincidental meeting stories. The odds of Lily and Alec staying at the same place after they were both witnesses in the same failed wedding are slim. But they meet up at the Heartbreak Hotel. While there and trying to deny their feelings, they both begin to take steps to change the path they have been travelling. Alec is finally able to come out of the shell he has been living in since their family's loss. Lily starts gain confidence and step out from the controlling family that raised her when abandoned by her parents. I enjoyed their story as well as the secondary characters. I look forward to returning for another stay at the Heartbreak Hotel! I received an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Catty Jane.
377 reviews4 followers
March 30, 2018
****4 STARS****
*****ARC Received for Honest Review*****

I found myself truly laughing out loud as I read each chapter, finding Christie’s writing witty, charming and at apt times sarcastic, and this girl loves all 3. I can already tell this is going to be a great series centered around this hotel, the Heartbreak Hotel. Where Lily brings her best friend to mend her broken heart after being left at the alter. Lily was a little to glad to be getting away as well, since she found herself longing a little too much for the best man, Alec.

Who would have thought that Lily would run smack into the man she is shying away from. Both Lily and Alec are not the relationship types and both look to keep it casual but Alec sees so much in Lily that makes all of the reasons he hates relationships, quickly fly away…..great read.-Review by Catherine(Catty)
436 reviews3 followers
June 25, 2018
This is the first in a new series, Heartbreak Hotel, and is set in The Hathaway at Dragonfly Beach hotel where people come to mend broken hearts. The author can take a well-used plot line (the bride dumped at the altar) and turn it into an enjoyable read.

Lilly Durand and her BFF Audra Montgomery have checked into the resort so that Audra can lick her wounds from the disastrous wedding that wasn’t. But Lilly has her own issue to recover from and his name is Alec Thatcher.

She has her hands full with Audra who won’t leave her room so the last thing she needs is to deal with a relationship with no strings and of short duration. Of course that makes the story what it is and I think you’ll enjoy the banter between the two characters.

I received a copy from the author for an honest and unbiased review. No compensation was promised or received for the review.
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
7,542 reviews153 followers
March 24, 2018
When it comes to love Lilly Durand prefers to watch from the sidelines. Past experience has taught her the destructive power of love, pain follows closely in it's wake. Her best friend's disasterous wedding is one more reason that she's made the right choice. How ironic that her stubbornness proves to be her undoing. Alec is bad for her head, but perfect for her heart. Can two people who don't believe in love, discover happily ever after out of the ashes of a jilted wedding? Christie Ridgway has been a favorite of mine since my first romance. She charms the soul as she imparts wisdom through her beautiful creations. Our Last First Kiss is evidence of an enduring legacy built on hope, happiness and heart
Profile Image for Sheila Schoenauer.
885 reviews11 followers
March 25, 2018
While I enjoyed this story I just had a hard time getting into it. My main reason for not being able to get into it was that I didn't like the main heroine, Lily, at all. She just irritated me and let her past walk all over her. Instead of proving to herself that she was better than the circumstances she grew up with she let them control her and based her future on the fact that her blood line was tainted and she didn't deserve love. Everyone deserves love! I liked Alec but I wish it hadn't taken over half of the book for him to become a take charge alpha. The story was good and the setting sounded wonderful. I just couldn't look past the fact that I couldn't take a liking to Lily. *I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.*
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