Book Review: First Comes Love by Emily Giffin

Emily Giffin, known for her emotionally engaging storytelling, delivers another captivating novel with “First Comes Love.” With her unique ability to explore the complexities of relationships, Giffin weaves a thought-provoking narrative that will resonate with readers long after they turn the last page.

The story revolves around the lives of two sisters, Josie and Meredith, who, despite being only fifteen months apart in age, couldn’t be more different. Josie is a free-spirited, impulsive, and artistic soul, while Meredith is more cautious, responsible, and focused on her career as a lawyer. However, their lives took a tragic turn when their brother, Daniel, died in a car accident fifteen years ago, forever changing the dynamics of their family.

Giffin beautifully portrays the lasting impact of grief on the two sisters and their parents, as well as their struggle to find their own paths in life. Meredith feels trapped in an unfulfilling marriage and yearns for motherhood, while Josie, still haunted by the loss of Daniel, remains single and afraid of commitment. As the fifteenth anniversary of Daniel’s death approaches, both sisters are forced to confront their past and reevaluate their choices, leading them on a journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, and ultimately, acceptance.

What sets “First Comes Love” apart is Giffin’s ability to create relatable and multifaceted characters. Josie and Meredith are flawed yet deeply human, and readers will find themselves rooting for their happiness and growth. Giffin expertly delves into their emotional struggles, highlighting the complexities of sibling relationships and the impact of loss on individual lives. Through her impeccable writing, she explores themes of love, family, sacrifice, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

The alternating perspectives between Josie and Meredith allow readers to delve into their inner thoughts and emotions, providing a comprehensive understanding of their motivations and fears. Giffin’s storytelling is skillful and engrossing, making it difficult to put the book down. Her prose is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, capturing the essence of the characters’ journeys with sensitivity and authenticity.

While primarily a story about the sisters, Giffin also incorporates the perspectives of their parents, highlighting the ripple effect of tragedy within a family and the different ways individuals cope with grief. These additional viewpoints add depth to the narrative and evoke a range of emotions.

“First Comes Love” is a testament to Giffin’s ability to craft compelling and relatable stories. It explores the complexities of family dynamics, the weight of grief, and the power of forgiveness. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and poignant themes, this novel will resonate with readers who appreciate an emotionally charged and thought-provoking story.

In conclusion, “First Comes Love” is a captivating and poignant novel that showcases Emily Giffin’s talent for crafting relatable and emotionally charged narratives. It is a must-read for fans of women’s fiction and anyone who enjoys thought-provoking stories about love, loss, and the bonds that hold families together.