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Synopsis:
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.
Review:
I didn’t see First-Time Caller coming. The story pulled me in right away, but then I lingered. Unsure about how I felt as everything played out. Yet before I knew it, I was completely in. Obsessed. Clinging to their every word. I fell in love right along with them. And that ending?! I sobbed. This story was everything.
It feels like every time I get my hopes up for something good, reality comes out swinging. I don’t know how to be a hopeful person anymore.
It’s easier not to be.
Aiden had lost his hope and optimism for love. But when Maya called, Lucie’s 12 year old daughter, something happened. Lucie got on the phone and their conversation was so effortless. And a tiny spark emerged. But when Aiden and Lucie met for the first time in person, I was cackling. It was awkward personified. Even if the chemistry between them was undeniably fun! As Lucie found herself spending more time around the studio and Aiden, I loved listening to them talk. And watching that slow and tentative friendship form between them.
“This is a live conversation?”
I nod. “Mm- hmm.”
“Right now?”
“That’s what this little blinking red light tells me.”
“Oh, good.” Lucie sounds winded. “I was worried this would be embarrassing.”
Aiden, I loved him. I loved how proactive he was, but oh wow did he hold his cards close to his chest. He definitely had some growing to do, so I loved watching his journey! While he was surrounded by those that cared for him, he just had to let himself feel. Lucie started the spark in his heart, and I loved watching the layers peel away from him.
“I want goose bumps. I want to be wanted. All this time and I— I haven’t given up. I guess I’m just waiting for it to find me.”
Lucie was surrounded by love, but it felt like she was in a rut when it came to romance. I adored her co-workers, her ex, and her bestie. They were some of her biggest champions and each one was so memorable! But Lucie deserved her own HEA, and I was cheering her on every step of the way! So many moments with Aiden felt like they were leading her on a path towards hope and love. That something more was in her future. But her path was not an easy one.
Lucie Stone: You guys, Aiden told me he watches YouTube videos and cries.
Aiden Valentine: [sighs]
Lucie Stone: Big, fat tears.
Aiden Valentine: What’s the point of a secret if you’re going to share it with the world?
Lucie Stone: [laughter]
Aiden Valentine: It’s not funny.
Lucie Stone: Then why are you smiling?
Aiden and Lucie on the air together were hilarious. There were so many moments between them, or even when they were with others, that had me screaming with laughter. So getting those little bonus moments between chapters, where we got like a transcript of part of the show, those made me feel so much! And their time outside of the studio I cherished too. Especially when they crossed that line of friendship to more, they could be so steamy together!
“Nah, Lucie.” In my dream, he brushes a kiss against my forehead. “I think you’re the magic.”
The ending to First-Time Caller was absolutely beautiful. I sobbed all the tears and was so happy. And that little peak was so sweet! I can’t wait to be back in this world watching others we grew to care for get their happily ever afters too! So if you’re looking for an adult romance that will warm your heart, while also making you laugh and cry, definitely add this one to your tbr!
A few more favorite quotes:
I got a taste of the real Aiden last night, and now I want more.
But I can’t. I shouldn’t.
I don’t want to fight it anymore. I don’t think I can.
“Fuck it,” I whisper, and I drag her mouth to mine.