Review by lavenderbooks20 -- First Love by Momi Robins

[Justine Ocsebio]

[Following is a volunteer review of "First Love" by Momi Robins.]

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3 out of 4 stars

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First Love by Momi Robins is a Christian coming-of-age novel that chronicles Paige’s life from childhood to adulthood. Her parents’ abusive relationship has led her to believe that love is a nasty thing that she must avoid at all costs. But when Lance and Jason come into her life, Paige finds herself not only caught in an unexpected love triangle, but also in a difficult situation, one that is unimaginable to her seventeen-year-old self.

First Love is the first book in the series called, The Love of a Good Woman. The narrative is told in the third-person perspective that shifts between scenes from the present and the past. Designed to be a Christian novel, several indications of the Christian faith are evident throughout this book. There are frequent references from the Bible like verses, anecdotes, and mentions of religious practices.

I liked the perfect balance of romance and redemption in this story. I was particularly captivated by the protagonist. She’s kind, loving, her faith in God guides her actions and motivations, but you can see that she’s very much flawed as well. She makes poor decisions, and her emotions can easily sway her. I was amazed by the sheer talent of the author in writing such a well-developed character. Additionally, the prose was satisfyingly written. It was rich with vivid descriptions that made the narration flow smoothly. It was also worth mentioning that the meaning of the title wasn’t what it seems to be. It was like a little twist towards the end of the book.

One incident became a turning point in Paige’s life. I don’t want to dispatch a spoiler, but it was a mistake so grave that Paige herself has begun questioning her faith. What I didn’t like was the seemingly unrealistic reaction of the people around her upon learning about it. The gravity of the news was supposed to evoke feelings of shock, hurt, and anger, but instead, it was taken so lightly like it was no big deal.

Overall, this novel has good intentions. First Love is a heartwarming tale of perseverance, self-discovery, and love. For that matter, I assign this book a rating of 3 out of 4 stars. It has exceptional writing and editing. I only noticed two minor errors. Christian young adults and those who are willing to explore this genre will surely love this book. I do not recommend this to religiously sensitive people, and for the few instances of erotic scenes, violence, and profanity, this book is not suitable for children as well.

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First Love
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[Erandi Ekanayake]

I'm just not sure whether I'm in the targeted audience. Anyway, I enjoyed your review very much. Thanks for the thorough and excellent review!

[Drianie]

This sounds like a sweet and heart-warming story with a relatable lead character. The fact that you speak so highly of the authors writing abilities makes me interested in reading it. Thanks for your beautiful review!

[Justine Ocsebio]

I'm just not sure whether I'm in the targeted audience. Anyway, I enjoyed your review very much. Thanks for the thorough and excellent review!

Thanks for your feedback

[Honest-reviewer]

The story seems beautiful. Love triangles are complicated. I want to know how this ends. Thanks for your brilliant review!

[Justine Ocsebio]

This sounds like a sweet and heart-warming story with a relatable lead character. The fact that you speak so highly of the authors writing abilities makes me interested in reading it. Thanks for your beautiful review!

I hope you get the chance to read it. Thanks for stopping by!

[Justine Ocsebio]

The story seems beautiful. Love triangles are complicated. I want to know how this ends. Thanks for your brilliant review!

Thank you for your comment

[Saint Bruno]

It is amazing how one's background can change how they react to even something like love. Thanks for the detailed review and recommendation.

[Adanna Inya]

I think that Christians finally found a romance novel that works for them.

[Justine Ocsebio]

It is amazing how one's background can change how they react to even something like love. Thanks for the detailed review and recommendation.

Thanks a lot for your feedback!

[TCG]

I feel horrible each time I hear about parents abusing their children. But I'm glued to reading books like this.

[Diana Lowery]

I was surprised to learn that a Christian romance novel had "erotic scenes, violence, and profanity." I enjoyed your review.

[Justine Ocsebio]

I think that Christians finally found a romance novel that works for them.

Thanks for stopping by!

[Justine Ocsebio]

I feel horrible each time I hear about parents abusing their children. But I'm glued to reading books like this.

Thanks for your feedback