B.K. Borison’s First-Time Caller, the first book in the Heartstrings series, is a warm, witty, and unexpectedly poignant romance novel that draws readers into a world of late-night radio confessions and reluctant second chances at love. Inspired by Sleepless in Seattle, the story revolves around Aiden Valentine, a once-hopeful romantic who has lost faith in love, and Lucie Stone, a single mother whose daughter inadvertently thrusts her into the spotlight of a Baltimore romance hotline.
The novel’s strengths lie in its charming, well-rounded characters, engaging banter, and introspective exploration of love and vulnerability. Borison’s prose is cozy and inviting, allowing readers to settle into the story like a favorite old sweater, while still delivering a fresh and contemporary take on the genre.
Plot: A Chance Call That Changes Everything
Aiden Valentine is the voice behind Heartstrings, a Baltimore-based late-night romance radio show that doles out advice to hopeful (or hopeless) romantics. But after years of listening to heartbreak and cynicism, Aiden finds himself jaded and disillusioned with love—hardly the ideal mindset for someone meant to inspire romance.
Lucie Stone is a dedicated single mother, content in her predictable life, until her precocious daughter, Maya, calls into Heartstrings to seek dating advice for her mom. The unexpected call goes viral, turning Lucie into an overnight sensation. Suddenly, everyone in Baltimore is invested in her love life—including Aiden.
As Lucie is thrust into an on-air search for romance, she must navigate unwanted attention, past hurts, and the undeniable chemistry that crackles between her and Aiden. But when it comes to real love, will she choose the safe, predictable path, or risk it all for something unexpected?
Character Analysis: Love in the Time of Reluctance
Lucie Stone: A Romantic in Disguise
Lucie is the heart of the story—a hardworking, self-sufficient woman who has convinced herself that she doesn’t need romance to be happy. She is fiercely independent, protective of her daughter, and refreshingly pragmatic. But beneath her no-nonsense demeanor lies a romantic who still dreams of a love that is effortless and true. Her inner conflict is deeply relatable, making her a compelling and endearing protagonist.
Aiden Valentine: The Jaded Heart
Aiden’s journey is equally captivating. Once a believer in love, his years behind the radio microphone have left him disillusioned. He is sarcastic, sharp-witted, and a little broody, but beneath the cynicism is a man who desperately wants to believe again. His interactions with Lucie gradually chip away at his hardened exterior, allowing readers to witness his slow but rewarding transformation.
Maya Stone: The Ultimate Wingwoman
Maya, Lucie’s daughter, is an absolute delight. Her intelligence, humor, and unabashed determination to set her mother up make her one of the book’s standout characters. She’s not just a plot device—she’s a well-developed, essential part of the story, and her relationship with Lucie adds depth to the novel.
Writing Style: Warm, Witty, and Natural
Borison’s writing is effortlessly engaging, blending humor with emotional depth. The dialogue is sharp, playful, and brimming with chemistry, making the romance feel organic rather than forced. She captures the cozy, intimate atmosphere of late-night radio while also painting a vivid picture of Baltimore’s charm.
The narrative alternates between Aiden and Lucie’s perspectives, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in their individual struggles and growing attraction. Borison skillfully balances internal monologues with external action, ensuring that the pacing remains steady and the tension palpable.
Themes: Love, Vulnerability, and Second Chances
1. The Complexity of Love
The novel explores different facets of love—romantic, familial, and self-love. Aiden and Lucie’s conversations (both on and off the air) highlight the fears and misconceptions that often hold people back from opening their hearts.
2. The Courage to Be Seen
Lucie’s viral fame forces her to confront her insecurities and step outside her comfort zone. The idea of being truly seen—not just as a mother or an advice-seeker, but as a woman deserving of love—is a recurring theme.
3. Healing from the Past
Both Aiden and Lucie have wounds that make them wary of love. Their slow-burn romance emphasizes the importance of healing and allowing oneself to be vulnerable again.
Critique: Room for a Little More Magic
While First-Time Caller is a thoroughly enjoyable read, there are a few areas where it falls slightly short:
Aiden’s Emotional Arc Feels Rushed: His transition from cynic to believer is engaging but could have used a bit more development. His deep-seated skepticism vanishes rather quickly, making his emotional transformation feel slightly unearned.
Lucie’s Romantic Hesitations Could Have Been Explored More: While her reluctance is understandable, a deeper dive into her past relationships might have added more layers to her resistance.
The Ending Feels a Bit Too Tidy: The conclusion is satisfying but somewhat predictable. A little more uncertainty or emotional tension in the final act could have made the resolution even more impactful.
Book 2: And Now, Back to You
For those who love First-Time Caller, Borison continues the Heartstrings series with And Now, Back to You, a follow-up that shifts focus to a new romance while maintaining the warmth and charm of the first book. While Aiden and Lucie’s story finds resolution, fans of Borison’s heartfelt storytelling will be eager to see where she takes the next installment.
Final Verdict: A Feel-Good Romance That Will Make You Believe Again
First-Time Caller is a heartfelt, charming, and uplifting read that offers a perfect mix of humor, warmth, and emotional depth. Borison’s ability to craft realistic, lovable characters makes this a standout in contemporary romance. While not without its minor flaws, the book delivers an engaging and deeply satisfying love story that will leave readers smiling long after the final page.
Recommended For Fans Of:
Before We Were Strangers by Renée Carlino
The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon
Would Like to Meet by Rachel Winters
Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez
If you enjoy contemporary romances with lovable characters, sharp dialogue, and heartfelt storytelling, First-Time Caller is well worth the read. It’s a reminder that sometimes, love finds us when we least expect it—even through the static of a late-night radio show.