A First Time for Everything: A Heartfelt Journey into the Awkward Terrain of Growth
K.L. Walther’s A First Time for Everything caught my eye for its promise of a relatable coming-of-age story, one that explores the limitless terrain of first experiences—first dates, first kisses, and even the complexities of family dynamics. Having enjoyed Walther’s previous works, The Summer of Broken Rules and What Happens After Midnight, I was eager to see how she would weave another charming tale. And while A First Time for Everything may not hit every note perfectly, it certainly offers a warm, engaging journey that’s both heartfelt and humorous.
At the center of this narrative is Madeline "Mads" Fisher-Michaels, a seventeen-year-old grappling with her identity as her older brother, Austin, makes life-altering choices. When Austin proposes to a girl Mads barely knows, she is thrust into the awkward role of a bridesmaid to her almost-sister-in-law, Katie. Right from the start, the dynamics in Mads’s family feel authentic and relatable, reflecting a world that many of us have navigated with both trepidation and excitement.
Mads is an incredibly relatable protagonist. She embodies the essence of being seventeen—full of self-doubt yet brimming with potential. I found myself rooting for her as she grapples with her lack of romantic experience, culminating in that laugh-out-loud moment during a bridesmaid sleepover when she reveals she’s never even been kissed. Walther’s knack for creating an internal monologue that feels authentic to a teenager is impressive. I appreciated how she illustrates Mads’s character development not just through her romantic experiences but also through her evolving identity within her family.
The supporting cast presents a mixed bag. While Connor McCallister, Mads’s love interest, provides a familiar comfort, he sometimes feels underdeveloped, almost a plot device rather than a distinct character. In contrast, Marco Álvarez emerges as a refreshing breath of complexity, evolving from a typical "popular guy" into a character imbued with unexpected depth—his friendship with Mads is where some of the book’s richest moments can be found. The bridesmaid ensemble, while occasionally blending together, adds moments of comic relief and support, illustrating the camaraderie often found among young women.
Walther’s writing shines brightest in the dialogue, which feels natural and relatable. I particularly loved the banter between Mads and her two dads, bringing a rich texture to their family dynamic while showcasing an authentic representation of LGBTQ+ families. However, I found some passages, especially those aimed at conveying deep emotions, could get a tad overwrought, occasionally telling rather than allowing the characters’ actions to convey feelings.
The pacing of the book sometimes falters, with a few plotlines feeling padded. Yet, the seasonal structure beautifully frames Mads’s journey, leading us to a satisfying climax during the wedding sequence that brings family and romantic tensions together in a way that feels both expected and surprising.
In summary, A First Time for Everything is a delightful addition to the YA romance landscape. It doesn’t shy away from familiar tropes but manages to explore them with a fresh and specific lens. Walther’s authentic portrayal of familial love, alongside the humorous yet poignant exploration of first experiences, makes this a comfort read for anyone who enjoys stories about growing up.
If you’re a fan of heartwarming tales featuring family dynamics, character-driven humor, and the tender awkwardness of first love, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up this charming novel. It’s a read that reminds us that growth often comes through the messiness of life—and that’s a journey worth savoring.
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