ARC Review: First Time in Forever by Sarah Morgan

“I was surprised to find myself instantly enjoying her writing style. [Morgan is ] a very polished writer, creating a story that is both magical but also realistic as it deals with delicate emotions…” ~ Under the Covers

FIRST TIME IN FOREVER is the first book in Sarah Morgan’s new Puffin Island series. Think small town romance on the sweeter side that kind of reminds me of Jill Shalvis’ books a little bit. In this book, Emily Donovan experiences a whole life change that doesn’t seem fair to her. After her Hollywood starlet sister gets killed in an accident, her young daughter Juliet is thrust upon her, leaving Emily with no choice but to leave her own life and start another on Puffin Island where she hopes that no one will recognize the child.

Not only has she have to get used to the idea of being a guardian, but she also needs to get used to the nosy habits of her new neighbors and more specifically, the attentions of hottie Ryan Cooper.

Though curious by nature, Ryan is trying to help his friend out by watching over her friend while she stays on Puffin Island. As a man who is the most eligible bachelor on the Island, Ryan tries to stay clear of children after having raised his siblings himself. However, there seems to be something magnetic about Emily and her child that grips him, making it impossible to step away.

As my first book by Morgan, I was surprised to find myself instantly enjoying her writing style. She’s a very polished writer, creating a story that is both magical but also realistic as it deals with delicate emotions, especially on Emily’s part. Morgan could have made Emily complain the whole way through but instead she creates a mature character that not only remains strong when her whole life shatters around her, but also in the face of love – another thing Emily doesn’t have good experience with.

Friendship and community are big aspects of this series, reminding me of Jill Shalvis’ books. But Puffin Island also reminds me of Lisa Kleypas’ CHRISTMAS AT FRIDAY HARBOR as well, so if you’re a fan of either authors, then you need to check out Sarah Morgan!

I am thrilled to have discovered Morgan’s books. I cannot wait for the next book, but in the meantime I’ll be definitely checking out her backlist.

*ARC provided by publisher