New Release: A First Time for Everything by KL Walther

I’m a KL Walther fan and I’m proud of it! If there’s anyone who has the ability to transport me to my teenaged years and make me nostalgic for experiences and memories I never had, it’s her. Because it’s not about the sports her characters play or the scenarios they find themselves in, it’s the feelings her writing elicits — the butterflies of interacting with a crush, the frustration of miscommunication, the anxiety of big decisions. There are so many factors at play at this stage in one’s life and KL brings it to life so well.

I had the pleasure of listening to the A First Time for Everything audiobook via NetGalley.

What Victoria Loved

VICTORIA’S RATING: 3.5/5

The beginning of this book brought me so much anxiety and I was so frustrated with the entire proposal / wedding scenario. Every aspect of it made me cringe. While we’re reading from Madeline’s perspective, Katie immediately raised all the red flags. She didn’t interact with Mads directly, nor did she stand up for her. She also seemed to be distanced or disinterested in any of the family’s feelings, let alone their traditions. 

Madeline is so eager to bond with Katie, but a wall remains. Why does she seemingly position Mads up for failure or embarrassment? There’s something there that makes me feel so uncomfortable and I’m pretty frustrated that Austin can’t bridge the gap between his family and Katie. there are things unsaid that seem unbearable and rather inconceivable after 5 years together… it’s a bit concerning that he’s let the lack of communication fester for so long. 

If you’re a fan of drama, buckle in because beyond the family drama, Mads’ entry into the dating scene gave me plenty to sink my teeth into. For someone who lives the friends-to-lovers trope, I hold it dearest to my heart because I know what’s at risk. But that also made all the ups and downs in this romance all the more excruciating! I forgot what it was like to be young, unsure and eager to fall in love. 

Do you remember when you first expressed interest in dating? Do you remember how terrifying it was? Well, if you ever want o relive those glory days, it’s perfectly described in this book. The fear of not knowing if the other person is interested, the cold dread of not knowing what to say or how to act. This gave me such anxiety and second-hand embarrassment about Mads’ dating experiences and her friendships with Connor and Marco. 

But this was also nice reminder that love finds us when we’re not looking for it, and it might not look how other people or how you thought it would. Sometimes it’s loud, sometimes it’s quiet. Sometimes it’s a rush, but it can also be a steady pulse. It’s a gentle reminder to trust your heart and those butterflies. Love should feel safe, like a warm hug… like coming home. 

For my audiophiles, transport yourself back in time with the audiobook. Jennifer Jill Araya does a wonderful job emoting throughout her narration — you’ll feel the frustration in the shake of her voice, the realization in slide of her pitch, the hesitation in her intentional pacing. It sent me back to my teen years, in the best way.

Pick up a copy of A First Time for Everything (Amazon) and read with me!

Favorite Scene

“It’s you.”

- A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING by KL Walther

Similar Reads & Recommendations

• THE INSPIRATION: Never Ever Getting Back Together by Sophie Gonzales (Amazon)

  Are you a fan of The Bachelor or reality TV in general and curious to know what happens behind-the-scenes? Do you ever make up little stories of behind-the-scenes romances among dating show contestants who aren’t supposed to fall in love with each other (especially when you’re not a fan of the leading romantic interest, or is that just me? Well, this book basically satiates that curiosity. It’s a bit predictable but so are the shows. So, if that’s up your alley, this is a nice easy read that checks the box.

  VICTORIA’S RATING: 3.5/5

• CENTERED AROUND A SIBLING’S WEDDING: Friends to Lovers by Sally Blakely (Amazon)

  This is where young love hurts… when you’re fearful, hesitant of losing what you have that you get in your own way and settle for what you think is the right thing to do instead of  risking pain and loss — only to face it all anyway. Sally Blakely struck that chord perfectly with Ren and Joni. All in the wrapped around her sister’s wedding.

  VICTORIA’S RATING: 4/5

• ALWAYS A BRIDESMAID: Ex Vows by Jessica Joyce (Amazon)

  Experience yearning of a whole different kind. Two exes are forced together in the lead-up to their mutual best friend’s wedding. They have to step up as best woman and man despite their cataclysmic break-up. And as they go from one wedding related appointment to another, they realize they have a lot to learn about each other.

  VICTORIA’S RATING: 4/5

• BY THE AUTHOR: The Summer of Broken Rules by KL Walther (Amazon)

  Step into the summer I dreamt of as a teenager in this young-adult romance. Imagine spending quality time with your favorite people at your favorite place, while playing your favorite game. This enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity romance has all the ingredients for the perfect summer read. I promise you will not want to leave the beach / pool / sun lounger until you’ve finished this book.

  VICTORIA’S RATING: 4/5

Until the next chapter!

xo, Victoria

P.S. Craving more books featuring these sub-genres, tropes, and themes? Tap the links below.