B.K. Borison’s First-Time Caller arrives with all the charm of a classic rom-com premise. Inspired by Sleepless in Seattle, it pairs a hopeless romantic with a jaded radio host in a story that explores love, vulnerability, and second chances. On paper, it sounds like the perfect recipe for a cozy, feel-good romance. In practice, the execution lands differently depending on what readers are looking for.
The story introduces us to Aiden Valentine, a man who has ironically fallen out of love with love, despite being the voice behind Baltimore’s popular romance hotline. When a young girl calls in seeking advice for her mother, Lucie Stone, the show goes viral and suddenly the private details of Lucie’s love life are front and center. What follows is a swirl of public scrutiny, reluctant attraction, and the undeniable tension that develops when sparks fly behind the microphones.
Readers are divided on how well the book balances its sweetness with believability. Some find it delightfully romantic, especially in moments when Aiden shows his softer side, like keeping a list of Lucie’s favorite things in his glove compartment so he never forgets. These little gestures shine as proof that Borison knows how to craft memorable romance staples.
Others, however, felt that the story leaned too heavily on predictable tropes. The setup, while engaging, occasionally veers into cliché territory, and the length of the novel makes certain sections feel dragged out. Aiden’s emotional unavailability and lack of confidence were sticking points for some readers who believed Lucie deserved more. Despite this, the side characters add warmth and humor, and there are undeniably sweet moments that remind us why Borison has become a beloved voice in the romance genre.
At its core, First-Time Caller is a book about rediscovering hope and allowing yourself to take a chance on love again, even when it feels scary. It may not deliver the same magic as the movie that inspired it, but for fans of contemporary romance who enjoy flirty banter, cozy setups, and family-driven subplots, it offers a lighthearted escape.
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