FIRST-TIME CALLER by B.K. Borison
Publication Date: February 11, 2025
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Aiden Valentine has a secret: he’s fallen out of love with love. And as the host of Baltimore’s romance hotline, that’s a bit of a problem. But when a young girl calls in to the station asking for dating advice for her mom, the interview goes viral, thrusting Aiden and Heartstrings into the limelight.
Lucie Stone thought she was doing just fine. She has a good job; an incredible family; and a smart, slightly devious kid. But when all of Baltimore is suddenly scrutinizing her love life—or lack thereof—she begins to question if she’s as happy as she believed. Maybe a little more romance wouldn’t be such a bad thing.
Everyone wants Lucie to find her happy ending…even the handsome, temperamental man calling the shots. But when sparks start to fly behind the scenes, Lucie must make the final decision between the radio-sponsored happily ever after or the man in the headphones next to her.
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This was an enjoyable contemporary romance reminiscent of Sleepless in Seattle. Aiden is a radio romance talk show host. The problem is he doesn’t believe in romance. I liked him even though I occasionally became frustrated with his stand on relationships and inability to communicate at times. I loved Lucie. Quick witted and real. Nothing seemed forced in her personality, making her relatable and someone I wanted to find happiness.
For me the story was about their quick banter and flirting. It was enhanced by the fun friends and family around them. I’m a sucker for group camaraderie that makes me wish I was a part of it all. And this story did that. As for romance, it was a realistically paced slow-burn that became quite spicy. I think the book could have been shorter, tightened up a bit more, so that is why it is scored a 4.
I’m still smiling and can’t wait for the next book.
*Review copy provided by Penguin Random House in exchange for an honest review.
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Paperback | Kindle
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B.K. Borison is the author of cozy, contemporary romances featuring emotionally vulnerable characters and swoon-worthy settings. When she’s not daydreaming about fictional characters doing fictional things, she’s at home with her family, more than likely buying books she doesn’t have room for. Lovelight Farms was her debut novel.
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