Absolutely everything a romance novel should be! This was really sweet and I loved watching the romance between our two MCs unravel. Aiden was soooo down bad for Lucie and I loved that we could get in his head from the dual-POV. The spice was also super hot - I loved all the pining that lead up to the steamy scenes. Will be a 2025 favorite for me!

This TUGGED on my HEARTSTRINGS.
This is a new favourite romance.

Aidan Valentine doesn’t believe in love despite hosting Heartstrings, Baltimore’s Romance Hotline.
Lucie is a mechanic, a single mother to a 12-year old who is a hopeless romantic. When her daughter rings the helpline secretly to ask advice for her mother, Lucie finds herself joining Aidan on air to help her find her happily ever after in a radio version of The Bachelorette.

<b>You don’t have to be alone to be lonely.</b>

THIS WAS ADORABLE. I always had a smile on my face. I loved every single character. This was such a healthy portrayal of romance, relationships, and putting yourself out there.

Lucie has always been designated a role by others, is self-conscious, and is more than willing to put others before her. I loved that she is still shown to be emotional and optimistic despite everything.
Aidan has been burned by life too many times and so hides his emotions behind walls. He doesn’t know how to handle Lucie, this woman with long hair whose smile brightens the booth.

<b>“I’ve been waiting for the perfect thing. The fairy-tale thing. But Aiden’s right.” A smile splits my face, even as pressure builds behind my eyes. “That doesn’t exist. Because it’s different for everyone, isn’t it? Love isn’t—it doesn’t work like that. I don’t want the things I thought I wanted.”
</b>
Aidan constantly checks in with Lucie and ensures her own comfort. There is a ‘Who the f made you cry moment’. Him and Lucie’s baby daddy make a ferocious team to protect Lucie.

<b>“My whole life, I’ve intentionally broken everything down into pieces because it’s been easier for me to handle. And it’s been the same with her. I’ve been letting myself have sips of her, afraid of what might happen if I let myself go. But I want—I want to kiss her when other people are around. I want to hold her hand. I want to have pancakes at her house on Sunday mornings and I want to help with Indiana Jones costumes. I want her people to be my people too.”
</b>
I also loved that the characters don’t automatically assume the worse. They allow each other the space, the time, the understanding; to explain, to feel comfortable, to be certain.

This also had such healthy representation of family. Lucie’s baby daddy lives next door and they are each other’s platonic loves. They care deeply for each other and have a great dynamic between them, his partner, and their daughter.

<b>“Do you find anyone sexy yet, or is that a thirteen-year-old thing?”
“Patty,” I say again, a warning in my voice. Maya shrugs, scooping the avocado off her sweater.
“I think books are sexy,” she says, very seriously. “No one at school has quite lived up to Aragorn yet.”
God, I love this kid. I lean over and press a smacking kiss to her temple. “I hate to break it to you, kid, but no one ever will.”
</b>
Can you tell this is a new favourite?!

Arc gifted by Pan MacMillan.

I ATE THIS UP

I loved B.K. Borisons other books, and I couldn't wait to read this one. My expectations were already high, and even now, she exceeded them.

The writing was very pleasant, and I basically flew through the book. The great storytelling also helped with that.

The romance between Lucie and Aiden was so sweet. I loved reading both of their pov's and watching them slowly realise they have feelings for the other. The other thing I liked was the co-parenting between Lucie and Grayson and the relationship Maya had with her mom and dads. They all have so much love to give, and it was nice to see how healthy the relationship was.

I really have nothing bad to say about this book. It's been so long since I liked a book this much. I NEED MORE.

++ Bonus points since I cried. It wasn't necessarily a sad part, but I was very touched. So grab some tissues if you're an easy crier.

I genuinely can't wait to read the next book in this series.

Thank you, NetGalley, for letting me read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

“Do you think I’ll get my magic?”
“Nah, Lucie. I think you’re the magic.”

I've read the Lovelight series in the past few years, bu I wasn't completely sold. However, First-time caller felt refreshing and really original: basically, Aiden and Lucie end up working together at a radio station! I enjoyed this element a LOT, even if I think I liked the first half of the book better, but only because sometimes when the main characters get together and the tension starts to vanish,.. I start to get bored!

I also loved Lucie as a main character and her cute little family: Maya, Grayson and Mateo were everything to me!

Aiden... THE MAN THAT YOU ARE! (once you resolve your internal conflict, lmao)

Anyway, if you liked BK Borison previous books - or if you didn't - you can definitely give Firs-time caller a try!

I would like to thank the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

B.K. Borison, you have done it again, and, if I may say so, better than ever. You have made your way into being one of my auto-buy authors, and there is very few of those.

B.K. Borison proves that she can write well outside of the Lovelight series as well with First-Time Caller. I've read all of the Lovelight series and loved all of those, and yet this one was even better. I couldn't believe it myself either.

Both Aiden and Lucie are so close to my heart. I also adored Maya, Grayson, and Mateo. Especially Grayson's and Lucie's co-parenting was so nice to see, I really loved seeing a healthy co-parenting relationship where both parents get along really well but just realised they weren't the right fit for each other. And I just love Maya, the whole reason this romance even started!

Aiden and Lucie have such great chemistry. I loved how much of a fumbling mess Aiden turned into when seeing her, and their banter in and outside of the recording studio.

Also, shout out to Oliver for being such a great guy. We love to see it!

Then, onto the story itself. This book had me crying. On multiple occasions. Maybe that says something about my own mental state, but it could also say something about how well B.K. Borison writes her characters and stories. The way Aiden just shuts himself off from everything and everyone (understandably so), ahhhh!! This whole book made me so emotional, I think I sobbed through the last 50 pages.

One of my new favourites, and I'm very happy to have gotten an early copy. I cannot wait for her next book.

One of my favorite things about the book by BK Borison is the way the characters Aidan and Lucy are portrayed; they are sweet and vulnerable, which makes their chemistry truly incredible. Unlike many romance novels, this book excels in chemistry, weaving them together seamlessly. I appreciate that it's a story you can enjoy while wearing a smile, and it stands out as both brilliant and thoroughly enjoyable.

this is absolutely my favourite BK Borison book, it filled the gaping Nora Ephron sized hole in my heart.

both Aidan and Lucy are so sweet and vulnerable, and have SO much chemistry. there’s so many romance books out there that i find lacking with either plot, characterisation or chemistry, but BK Borison has managed to hit all three and then some.

i can’t wait to read the next books in this series!

First Time Caller is the first instalment in a new series by B.K Borison, author of Lovelight Farms series. This book begins with Lucie's daughter Maya calling in to a radio show in the hopes of helping her mum with her dating life. There is a instant connection between Lucie and Aiden and when the call goes viral Lucie is asked to do a regular segment on the radio show in order to try and find love. I really enjoyed the banter between Lucie and Aiden and of course there is a great group of supporting characters, some of who we will hopefully see in their own books. This is a well, written, enjoyable romance with great characters and brilliant chemistry. Really looking forward to reading other books in this series.

Hello Baltimore, hello world, I am calling to tell you about the sweetest, most delicious and tender love story, hang tight!

When Lucie Stone’s daughter calls into the radio show „Heartstrings“ in the hopes that the host, Aiden Valentine, can help her mom feel less lonely by finding her a date and when that phone call goes unexpectedly viral, Lucie’s life takes a turn. Suddenly, she finds herself in the booth next to Aiden Valentine himself, co-hosting the very same radio show and searching for her perfect date. But maybe the search already stopped when they first saw each other?

I loved and adored this book from start to finish. Lucie, the amazing, romantic and hopeful FMC, who is charming and funny and Aiden, the grumpy, closed-off, yet incredibly kind and thoughtful MMC have stolen my heart.

The tension and their chemistry was so fun to read. The tenderness and affection so beautiful, because these two truly see each other (HE KEPPS A LIST OF HER FAVOURITE THINGS). And without giving away too much, I PROMISE this book will make you swoon. Here, a glimpse of it:

„A grin splits her face and it’s like I’ve been plugged into the wall. Like the sun’s been tilted in my direction.“

Need I say more? This is a book for all the hopeless romantics and all the people who have stopped believing in good things or have distanced themselves from then in fear of losing it. There is good out there and may it find us like Lucie and Aiden have found each other.

„First-Time Caller“ is out February 13th 2025!

Thank you to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for an earc in exchange for an honest review!

-Found family
-Emotionally vulnerable
-Slow burn
-Based on sleepless in Seattle

Anyone that knows me will know Nora Ephron films are my comfort, so when I found out @authorbkborison was writing a series based on Sleepless In Seattle, When Harry Met Sally & You’ve Got Mail I went slightly feral and pestered @libraryofchlo at @panmacmillan for an early copy and she made my dreams come true.

If you are also a massive Nora Ephor fan let me tell you that First Time Caller is not going to disappoint. It was such a delightful, heartwarming read that perfectly weaves romance, humour, and vulnerability.

From the moment I started reading I was drawn in, Lucie is such a great FMC, possibly a new favourite . The irresistible chemistry between the her and Aiden was delicious and the slow burn was buuurning.

What I loved most about First Time Caller was how inspired it was from Sleepless In Seattle but how BK Borison has completely made it her own. The concept of finding a romantic connection through late night radio calls allowed the character’s personality to show through in such an authentic way.
I loved the banter and humour between Lucie and Aiden, but also their shared vulnerability through these calls feel so genuine, and it’s impossible not to root for them.

I LOVED Aiden as the MMC, the man keeps a list of her favourite things in the glove compartment so he won’t forget them 😭😭 sorry real life men, you have a lot to live up to.

Borison has a way of writing that makes you both laugh and swoon, while also tugging at your heartstrings. The balance of lighthearted moments with the deeper emotions of love is written so well. I’ve always loved BK Borison's writing, but this seems such a step up from Lovelight Farms 👏🏼

FTC is a refreshing take on love and connection, and one of those books you’ll want to reread, I know I will be & I genuinely cannot wait for the rest in this series!

I am always a huge fan of things bubbling in front of others and the chemistry in this was so piping hot over the radio station. I adore so many of the lines in this, the sweetness and earned nature of the romance. The dynamics were well handled, pacing was good and it was a fun enjoyable read that I look forward to rereading

What a beauty!

Perfect for those who enjoy:
- Heartwarming storylines
- Lovable characters
- Spicy scenes
- Rom-coms

With thanks to Pan and Netgalley for an ARC copy in return for an honest review.

This was my first B. K. Borison and if this book is any indication, I will love her books. I absolutely adored this book.

This book is loosely based on Sleepless in Seattle. It gives me the same cute and adorable vibes. The whole plot had me clutching the book to my chest and giggling.

I loved the modern family that Lucie has and also her work family. It was a perfect environment for Lucie and Maya and they made a great cast of characters.

However, what obviously stands out in the book is the chemistry between Lucie and Aiden. Sparks fly during their radio show and then tension only continues to build. The relationship felt like it developed very naturally and didn't feel rushed.

This book is a really easy read and I demolished it in two sittings. I just couldn't put it down.

I would highly recommend this book to romance fans. This book will be released on 13th February 2025 so make sure you check it out. It will be a perfect read for Valentine's Day.

Thanks to NetGalley, B.K. Borison, and Pan Macmillan for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

I cannot put into words how much I love this book. When B K Borison wrote at the back that they wanted to write a love letter to love they meant it. I’m just in love with love and First-Time Caller. Easily, the best romance I’ve read this year, followed closely by Lovelight Farms which I immediately went to read after finishing this. I don’t think I’ve ever had a crush on an author before but I am crushing hard on B K Borison.

In a few words: “First Time Caller is utter perfection”.

First Time Caller is a perfect romance inspired by Sleepless in Seattle, if you can please read it!

Thank you to B. K. Borison, Pan MacMillan and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This is such a feel good read.

Two gorgeous POVs. I loved the FMC's chaotic energy and the golden retriever energy of the MMC.

This book is cosy, funny and heartwarming.

Beautiful radio plot! I think the mini radio dialogue breaks were so well done!

This book is a delightful and heartwarming romance, sweet and funny, with a touch of chaos, making it an irresistible read from start to finish.

Aiden Valentine is a jaded host of a radio romance hotline who lost his faith in love. Enter Lucie Stone, a single mom just trying to navigate life with her clever, slightly mischievous daughter. When Lucie’s daughter calls into Aiden’s show to ask for help finding a boyfriend for her mom, the interaction unexpectedly goes viral, setting the stage for a romance neither Aiden nor Lucie saw coming.

The characters felt real and relatable. Lucie’s vulnerability in opening up to new possibilities make her easy to root for. Aiden’s emotional journey, from cynic to rediscovering the magic of love, adds depth and balance to the story. The chemistry between the two is slow-burning and irresistible, with plenty of witty banter and tender moments behind the scenes of the radio station.

The novel also touches on themes of second chances and how love can find you when you least expect it. This story feel timeless yet contemporary and with its cozy setting and relatable characters, it’s a perfect pick for readers who love sweet, low-angst romances that leave you smiling long after the last page. This is one you’ll want to curl up with a warm drink and your favorite playlist.

𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 :
• grumpy x sunshine
• second chance
• opposites attract
• single mom
• workplace romance
• rediscovering love

𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 : ★★★★.75

Thank you B.K. Borison, Pan Macmillan and NetGalley for an e-ARC copy.

DO NOT READ THIS BOOK, unless you’re ready to ignore all your responsibilities, stay up way too late, and sneak glances at the pages when you should be doing something else because this book is that good, and once you start it, you won’t be able to put it down!

This is the kind of book that feels like a cozy hug on a rainy day. It’s the kind of book that reminds me why I love romance so much. Romance books make me believe in people, in second chances, and in the beauty of connection. They remind me that love is worth it in all its messy, complicated forms. And this story delivered all of that and then some.

Inspired by Sleepless in Seattle, this is about Aiden Valentine, a jaded radio host who’s lost faith in love—a bit of a problem when your job is giving advice on a romance hotline. Then, one night, a young girl calls into the show, asking for dating tips for her mom, Lucie Stone. Lucie’s got a great job, an incredible family, and a clever (slightly devious) daughter, but the viral moment throws her into the spotlight, forcing her to confront her own loneliness. As Lucie starts to navigate this unexpected attention, sparks begin to fly between her and the grumpy-yet-charming man on the other side of the headphones. And as they work together, both have to decide if they’re ready to take a chance on love.

When I saw that this book was inspired by Sleepless in Seattle, I knew I needed to read it immediately. I watched this movie as a kid, and it was how my love for romance films started. What a beautiful tribute to have a book inspired by it!

I can’t even describe how much I loved watching Aiden and Lucie’s story unfold. I’m such a sucker for broken characters finding healing through love, and this slow-burn made me feel like a front-row spectator in the best way. I grinned like an idiot, cried, and laughed—it gave me all the feels.

The themes in this story hit so close to home. I loved how it explored people-pleasing and putting others’ needs before your own happiness. Watching Lucie take those first brave steps toward putting herself out there and prioritizing herself was so moving. As a people pleaser in recovery, I felt seen.

And Aiden’s journey? A lesson in opening yourself up after protecting your heart for so long. It’s scary, messy, and vulnerable, but as this book so beautifully shows, there’s no love without loss, and how it is worth it.

This story is packed with some of my favorite tropes: single mom, grumpy-sunshine, he falls first, and even “dating lessons.” It checked every box for me.

Thank you, B.K. Borison, for writing this beautiful story, Pan Macmillan for gifting me this unforgettable book and NetGalley for making it all possible. I’ll be thinking about (and gushing over) for a long time.

I really loved this book. It was such an easy read and I could imagine every scene. I fell in love with the relationship dynamic between Aiden and Lucie and definitely would recommend if you’re a fan of radio station romance and opposites attract.

This book was everything I wanted and more! I wish I had read it a little slower and savoured it, but nope, I couldn't hold back. The number of times it made me giggle, swoon, and even shed some tears is insane.

First-Time Caller is perfect for Sleepless in Seattle fans. And dare I say, it was even better!

Aiden Valentine hosts a romance hotline on the radio called 'Heartstrings'. Over the time, he's lost the spark he once felt for the show and love itself. There's barely any listeners or callers seeking advice. His career is going downhill and fast. One night he receives a call from a twelve-year-old Maya, seeking dating advice for her mother's nonexistent love life. Curious, Aiden engages in a conversation with Maya and later, Lucie takes over the chat. Their conversation goes viral, bringing callers and sponsors back to the struggling station. Since the listeners found Lucie's situation to be relatable and wanted to help her find love, the station manager proposes (albeit a little forcefully) the idea of having Lucie co-host the show alongside Aiden, for a limited time.

But when Lucie joins him in the tiny radio studio, he's conflicted between finding dates for her or taking on the job himself. He likes Lucie, but he also fell out of love with love and is kind of avoidant of intimacy. So, how can he give her the magic she deserves? No one seems good enough for her, especially him. But spending time with her and being in her vicinity makes him reevaluate everything, and the walls that he built around him crumble.

Their chemistry was off the charts. The slow burn in this BURNED and I loved every second of it. It was a breath of fresh air. Aiden Valentine is a man straight out of a hopeless romantic's sweetest dreams. HE KEEPS A LIST OF HER FAVOURITE THINGS IN THE GLOVE COMPARTMENT!!!!! so he remembers what she likes. He comes running straight outta shower with wet hair in COLD bc she got stood up for a date. An Lucie is such a sweetheart, so loving and strong. She is a great mom and yes she deserves all the magic this world has to offer. AND she was a badass mechanic! I loved the side characters, especially Grayson, the baby daddy. We all need a friend like him in our corner. And Maya was such a cutie. Her character was well written, and I'm so grateful for that. Maya and Aiden's relationship was so cute!! As a romcom girlie, this book managed to crawl up inside my heart and make space for itself; that's all I want to say to conclude this.

You all better get ready for the romcom of the year dropping early 2025.

Thank you Pan Macmillan and NetGalley for the ARC.

I was really excited to read this book however I ultimately dnf'd cause it is rare that I dislike a MMC but oh my goodness I have met one I hate. He is like a child not a grown professional with a job. I just found the immaturity to be really off putting and I just got the ick.