What do you think?
Rate this book
The First to Know
Dana Fields's father never knew his parents. When Dana secretly does a DNA test for her dad, hoping to find him some distant relatives for his birthday, her entire world implodes. Instead of a few third cousins, Dana discovers a half brother her age whose very existence means her parents' happy marriage is a lie.
Dana's desire to know her half brother, Brandon, and the extent of her dad's deception, clashes with her wish not to destroy her family. When she sees the opportunity to get to know Brandon through his cousin, the intense yet kind Chase, she takes it. But the more she finds out about Brandon, her father's past and the irresistible guy who'll never forgive her if he discovers the truth, the more she sees the inevitable fallout from her own lies. With her family crumbling around her, Dana must own up to her actions and find a way to heal the breach—for everyone—before they're torn apart for good.
Dana's desire to know her half brother, Brandon, and the extent of her dad's deception, clashes with her wish not to destroy her family. When she sees the opportunity to get to know Brandon through his cousin, the intense yet kind Chase, she takes it. But the more she finds out about Brandon, her father's past and the irresistible guy who'll never forgive her if he discovers the truth, the more she sees the inevitable fallout from her own lies. With her family crumbling around her, Dana must own up to her actions and find a way to heal the breach—for everyone—before they're torn apart for good.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published November 7, 2017
23 people are currently reading
2821 people want to read
About the author
Abigail Johnson
8 books946 followersAbigail Johnson was born in Pennsylvania. When she was twelve, her family traded in snowstorms for year-round summers and moved to Arizona. Abigail chronicled the entire cross-country road trip in a purple spiral-bound notebook that she still has, and has been writing ever since. She became a tetraplegic after breaking her neck in a car accident when she was seventeen, but hasn’t let that stop her from bodysurfing in Mexico, writing and directing a high-school production of Cinderella, and riding roller coasters every chance she gets. She is the author of several young adult novels including If I Fix You and Every Other Weekend.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
April 6, 2018
Now this book had the good kind of drama I enjoy in my stories! Rashika recommended this book to me and because I was feeling like a good YA contemporary, I decided to give it a shot. I have to say, it was a solid recommendation from her because I wound up liking this story!
What I liked the best about The First to Know was how it handled a very delicate and serious topic but the story as a whole managed to be hopeful in tone. I don't think I would have liked the story as much if I had not liked the main character, Dana, as much. I'm usually not fond of characters that keep life-changing secrets, but Abigail Johnson made me care for Dana and she made me understand where the teen was coming from. Dana had good intentions and all she wanted was to do something she thought would be nice for her dad. She didn't expect her whole life to be unpended. I liked that when she found out about the existence of her step-brother that she took steps to make him feel welcomed and loved. I feel like not everyone would react in such an open-hearted way.
I liked the romance here too. It wasn't too in your face, which I appreciated. The romance between Chase and Dana was really lovely. Dana found comfort with Chase and together they made for a sweet couple. I enjoyed watching their bond develop over the course of the book. I also enjoyed all the complicated elements. When Dana found out about her step-brother, she was obviously very much shaken, and we see how that affects all her relationships. I would have liked a bit more closure towards the end and I did wish I had liked Dana's sister a little bit better, but those were my only real complaints about this book.
The First to Know was a story with a lot of heart and I definitely think it's worth a read. Give it a try if you're feeling inclined to! :)
October 2, 2017
Once again I am left utterly speechless by an Abigail Johnson novel. How does she do it!?!! Because The First To Know is the most incredible, agonising, rip-your-heart-out-and-then-sew-it-back-together, amazing book. Asdffdhngikaldnvj....I hope the publisher wasn't expecting a put-together, coherent review, because all they are going to get is swooning, sighs, exclamation marks and fan-girling. Because it really is just. that. good.
When Dana decides to surprise her father with a birthday present to beat all birthday presents, she could never have expected the bombshell she would unleash. The DNA testing kit was supposed to unveil some long-lost family members - parents or cousins perhaps - for her father who grew up in foster care never knowing anything about his heritage or family. Instead, Dana discovers that her father has a son. A son who is not that much older than she is...and not that much younger than her sister. Confused and devastated, Dana keeps her secret while desperately trying to learn more about her brother, even if it means getting close to Chase, her brother's cousin, a guy who is starting to mean so much to her, a guy she really shouldn't be lying to.
This book put me through the emotional wringer. It tore my heart out. I was literally reading some of it peeking through my fingers. I knew that the big unveiling of the truth was going to come, you know from the summary that this secret is going to blow up, big time, but it was still agonising to watch. The part about the DNA testing tearing Dana's family apart didn't really hit me until I got a good look at her family. And while things aren't perfect, while Dana might have problems with her relationship with her Dad, there is no doubting the close bond between her parents, between their whole family. It's really sweet but also sad knowing where the book is going.
And then there is the romance.... I don't know what to say, I really don't. Except maybe, amazing and incredible and breathtaking and....aghhh!
There are so many layers to this book. While Dana is wrestling with her family secret she is also trying to lead her softball team to state championships, balance the love she has for her sister with the resentment she feels about their respective talents and choices in life, and also navigate the unrequited feelings of one of her best friends. So the themes of sport, family, friendship, and romance all give so much depth to this book.
The time Dana spends with Chase is everything she needs and everything she knows she can't have while she is hiding the truth from him. He is so up-front, honest even when he is hurting, and sure about what he wants. Determined, hurting, kind, sweet (and did I mention incredibly attractive). I was a little unsure about the ending as I was nearing the final pages. Surely I wasn't going to be left with a broken (read: wrecked, totally devastated, I-need-ice-cream) heart? But Abigail Johnson not only delivers an emotionally overwhelming book, but one that is also hopeful, loving, forgiving and (sorry, if this is getting repetitive, but) totally AMAZING!!
In case my review is not already clear, I absolutely loved this book. I can't wait to shove it into the hands of my readers, can't wait to share the reactions and love that this book will inspire. I highly, highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy realistic fiction, contemporary novels that seamlessly combine romance, friendship, relationship breakdown and the importance of family in one incredible book.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library.
When Dana decides to surprise her father with a birthday present to beat all birthday presents, she could never have expected the bombshell she would unleash. The DNA testing kit was supposed to unveil some long-lost family members - parents or cousins perhaps - for her father who grew up in foster care never knowing anything about his heritage or family. Instead, Dana discovers that her father has a son. A son who is not that much older than she is...and not that much younger than her sister. Confused and devastated, Dana keeps her secret while desperately trying to learn more about her brother, even if it means getting close to Chase, her brother's cousin, a guy who is starting to mean so much to her, a guy she really shouldn't be lying to.
This book put me through the emotional wringer. It tore my heart out. I was literally reading some of it peeking through my fingers. I knew that the big unveiling of the truth was going to come, you know from the summary that this secret is going to blow up, big time, but it was still agonising to watch. The part about the DNA testing tearing Dana's family apart didn't really hit me until I got a good look at her family. And while things aren't perfect, while Dana might have problems with her relationship with her Dad, there is no doubting the close bond between her parents, between their whole family. It's really sweet but also sad knowing where the book is going.
And then there is the romance.... I don't know what to say, I really don't. Except maybe, amazing and incredible and breathtaking and....aghhh!
There are so many layers to this book. While Dana is wrestling with her family secret she is also trying to lead her softball team to state championships, balance the love she has for her sister with the resentment she feels about their respective talents and choices in life, and also navigate the unrequited feelings of one of her best friends. So the themes of sport, family, friendship, and romance all give so much depth to this book.
The time Dana spends with Chase is everything she needs and everything she knows she can't have while she is hiding the truth from him. He is so up-front, honest even when he is hurting, and sure about what he wants. Determined, hurting, kind, sweet (and did I mention incredibly attractive). I was a little unsure about the ending as I was nearing the final pages. Surely I wasn't going to be left with a broken (read: wrecked, totally devastated, I-need-ice-cream) heart? But Abigail Johnson not only delivers an emotionally overwhelming book, but one that is also hopeful, loving, forgiving and (sorry, if this is getting repetitive, but) totally AMAZING!!
In case my review is not already clear, I absolutely loved this book. I can't wait to shove it into the hands of my readers, can't wait to share the reactions and love that this book will inspire. I highly, highly recommend this book for readers who enjoy realistic fiction, contemporary novels that seamlessly combine romance, friendship, relationship breakdown and the importance of family in one incredible book.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library.
November 8, 2017
4.5 STARS
When Dana wants to surprise her father, who grew up in foster care, by finding his biological relatives through DNA testing, she never expected to find Brandon, her same age half-brother. Brandon wants nothing to do with Dana or her sister or their father. And Dana’s mother has no idea. She doesn’t want to break up their family by revealing the truth.
Abigail Johnson’s sophomore effort is filled with drama and heart. Dana’s a beautifully flawed character. Crushed under her softball coach dad’s tough expectations, feeling second best to her sister Dana truly wants to get he father an epic birthday person, biological family. Her methods aren’t always wise or honest, but she genuinely wants to make everything right for everyone.
THE FIRST TO KNOW, at its core, tells the story of family working through disappointments in themselves and in each other. At times heartbreaking, at times hopeful Johnson proves she’s even better the second time. I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
When Dana wants to surprise her father, who grew up in foster care, by finding his biological relatives through DNA testing, she never expected to find Brandon, her same age half-brother. Brandon wants nothing to do with Dana or her sister or their father. And Dana’s mother has no idea. She doesn’t want to break up their family by revealing the truth.
Abigail Johnson’s sophomore effort is filled with drama and heart. Dana’s a beautifully flawed character. Crushed under her softball coach dad’s tough expectations, feeling second best to her sister Dana truly wants to get he father an epic birthday person, biological family. Her methods aren’t always wise or honest, but she genuinely wants to make everything right for everyone.
THE FIRST TO KNOW, at its core, tells the story of family working through disappointments in themselves and in each other. At times heartbreaking, at times hopeful Johnson proves she’s even better the second time. I can’t wait to see what she writes next.
December 4, 2017
This is a new author for me so I didn't really know what to expect. I just thought upon reading the synopsis that the plot is interesting.
I wasn't disappointed.
A story of a young girl who's trying to prove herself to her father, that pushes her to plan this ridiculous gift for his birthday. And that gift results to whole new problems Dana and her family have to face. Expectedly, there's so much drama in this story that I really welcomed with open heart.
The feeels...
Usually there are parts in drama or realistic fiction that can be boring and slow especially in novels that I just skimmed over them, But the author didn't give me a chance to do that. Every scene I devour because I got invested in the story and especially to the characters. I fell in love and care for them , especially Dana, because of everything that's going around. This is a story of a family who learned how to accept themselves and forgive.
Be warned, this book will wreck your emotions yet will leave you hopeful and contented.
Oh did I really almost forgot about Chase. Yeah the romance... :) :) It was sweet and unique in it's own way. I was even surprised I'd like the romance in the book. Maybe because, I wasn't expect there would be a definite romance in the story but again the author didn't disappoint.
I think I just added another author on my favorite realistic writers list. :)
I was given a review copy by the publisher and author.. Thank you. :)
I wasn't disappointed.
A story of a young girl who's trying to prove herself to her father, that pushes her to plan this ridiculous gift for his birthday. And that gift results to whole new problems Dana and her family have to face. Expectedly, there's so much drama in this story that I really welcomed with open heart.
The feeels...
Usually there are parts in drama or realistic fiction that can be boring and slow especially in novels that I just skimmed over them, But the author didn't give me a chance to do that. Every scene I devour because I got invested in the story and especially to the characters. I fell in love and care for them , especially Dana, because of everything that's going around. This is a story of a family who learned how to accept themselves and forgive.
Be warned, this book will wreck your emotions yet will leave you hopeful and contented.
Oh did I really almost forgot about Chase. Yeah the romance... :) :) It was sweet and unique in it's own way. I was even surprised I'd like the romance in the book. Maybe because, I wasn't expect there would be a definite romance in the story but again the author didn't disappoint.
I think I just added another author on my favorite realistic writers list. :)
I was given a review copy by the publisher and author.. Thank you. :)
March 6, 2018
The romance could have used a couple more moments before the big reveal, but I still enjoyed the bittersweet story and the family dynamics (considering the situation). When the reader keeps rooting for the characters after turning the last page, it means the story did its magic :)
Such a lovely book, I’ll keep an eye on this author as so far I’ve been enjoying her stories.
Such a lovely book, I’ll keep an eye on this author as so far I’ve been enjoying her stories.
February 10, 2018
Abigail Johnson is a new-to-me author so I had no idea what to expect but
The First to Know
blew me away. It’s a heartfelt family drama and totally worth it.
Dana Fields just wants to do something nice for her dad for his birthday. What starts off as a heartwarming gesture soon turns into Dana’s worst nightmare. In her search for her father’s family, Dana discovers that she has a half-brother her age that no one knew about.
When she confronts her half-brother, he wants nothing to do with her. With no one she can really turn to, she does what she really shouldn’t, she turns to her half-brother’s cousin (she and the cousin aren’t related by blood.)
I know, I know. This all sounds like a soap opera and it kind of is but in the best way possible. Johnson clearly knows how to write her dramas. The book is just dramatic enough, the angst just right enough that it doesn’t become overbearing. Instead, you feel sympathetic to Dana’s dilemma who really doesn’t know what to do with this new found information that has the possibility to tear apart her nearly perfect family.
Watching the tension build up and Dana struggle to figure out what to do is truly satisfying in some ways because nothing about the situation is easy. There is no simple answer and there is no right or wrong. Johnson forces readers to step outside of our occasional black and white binaries to truly examine the complexity of the situation at hand. I loved every single minute of it.
Of course, like all books, this one isn’t perfect either but it IS good and one I’d recommend to anyone who loves some substantial angst and good drama. The First to Know is absolutely worth the read and I do hope you’ll choose to give it a shot!
***This review was originally posted on Xpresso Reads
Dana Fields just wants to do something nice for her dad for his birthday. What starts off as a heartwarming gesture soon turns into Dana’s worst nightmare. In her search for her father’s family, Dana discovers that she has a half-brother her age that no one knew about.
When she confronts her half-brother, he wants nothing to do with her. With no one she can really turn to, she does what she really shouldn’t, she turns to her half-brother’s cousin (she and the cousin aren’t related by blood.)
I know, I know. This all sounds like a soap opera and it kind of is but in the best way possible. Johnson clearly knows how to write her dramas. The book is just dramatic enough, the angst just right enough that it doesn’t become overbearing. Instead, you feel sympathetic to Dana’s dilemma who really doesn’t know what to do with this new found information that has the possibility to tear apart her nearly perfect family.
Watching the tension build up and Dana struggle to figure out what to do is truly satisfying in some ways because nothing about the situation is easy. There is no simple answer and there is no right or wrong. Johnson forces readers to step outside of our occasional black and white binaries to truly examine the complexity of the situation at hand. I loved every single minute of it.
Of course, like all books, this one isn’t perfect either but it IS good and one I’d recommend to anyone who loves some substantial angst and good drama. The First to Know is absolutely worth the read and I do hope you’ll choose to give it a shot!
***This review was originally posted on Xpresso Reads
November 17, 2017
Rating: 4.5 Stars
This was one of my Can't-Wait Wednesday picks, so I had pretty high hopes for this book. I am happy to report it did not disappoint me. What would you do if you were the first to know something that could destroy your family? This is the question Dana struggled with in this book, and I couldn't stop flipping the pages as I watched Dana build her house of cards.
•Pro: Many different types of families are explored. Single mom, single dad, foster kid, large family, extended families, adopted families. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and it's nice to see them represented.
•Pro: Dana! This young woman was put in a tough position, and she had to hold so much inside as she tried to make the right decision. I couldn't imagine having that sort of information, and knowing it could destroy my life as I know it. She didn't always make good decisions in this book, and her decisions often had major repercussions, but they all came with good intentions, and she learned a lot of herself, her family, and she was better for it.
•Pro: This books is packed with great characters. I found them all to be well developed and they made significant contributions to the story. I also cared about them.
•Pro: Speaking of caring, I found myself quite emotionally invested in this family. The joy, the loss, the pain, the betrayal -- it was all there.
•Pro: There were a lot of side plots, and when I stood back and took in the big picture, I was able to see how they were all part of the big picture.
•Con: The ending, though good, left me glad about some things, a little sad about others, and with a bunch of questions about yet more things.
•Pro: The drama was delicious! I kept sneaking little pieces of this book, because I had to know what happened next. It was quite addictive.
•Pro: There is a lot of love and grace shown and there were a few times I thought my heart would burst.
•Pro: I loved Dana's romance. Her romantic interest won me over with the first overture he made towards Dana, which was far from your typical romantic gesture.
•Pro: This book blended stories of families, friendships, relationships, and romance, and it did it well.
Overall: A heartfelt story of family secrets, filled with great characters and lots of feels.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
This was one of my Can't-Wait Wednesday picks, so I had pretty high hopes for this book. I am happy to report it did not disappoint me. What would you do if you were the first to know something that could destroy your family? This is the question Dana struggled with in this book, and I couldn't stop flipping the pages as I watched Dana build her house of cards.
•Pro: Many different types of families are explored. Single mom, single dad, foster kid, large family, extended families, adopted families. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and it's nice to see them represented.
•Pro: Dana! This young woman was put in a tough position, and she had to hold so much inside as she tried to make the right decision. I couldn't imagine having that sort of information, and knowing it could destroy my life as I know it. She didn't always make good decisions in this book, and her decisions often had major repercussions, but they all came with good intentions, and she learned a lot of herself, her family, and she was better for it.
•Pro: This books is packed with great characters. I found them all to be well developed and they made significant contributions to the story. I also cared about them.
•Pro: Speaking of caring, I found myself quite emotionally invested in this family. The joy, the loss, the pain, the betrayal -- it was all there.
•Pro: There were a lot of side plots, and when I stood back and took in the big picture, I was able to see how they were all part of the big picture.
•Con: The ending, though good, left me glad about some things, a little sad about others, and with a bunch of questions about yet more things.
•Pro: The drama was delicious! I kept sneaking little pieces of this book, because I had to know what happened next. It was quite addictive.
•Pro: There is a lot of love and grace shown and there were a few times I thought my heart would burst.
•Pro: I loved Dana's romance. Her romantic interest won me over with the first overture he made towards Dana, which was far from your typical romantic gesture.
•Pro: This book blended stories of families, friendships, relationships, and romance, and it did it well.
Overall: A heartfelt story of family secrets, filled with great characters and lots of feels.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
March 8, 2018
I received an electronic copy of this title from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
To be honest I was on the fence about this one going into it. On the one hand, I absolutely devoured and loved Abigail Johnson's first book, If I Fix You. However I also was skeptical about the plot of this one based on the summary. It just seemed like it was going to be a bunch of forced and eye-roll worthy drama. And I will admit that it took a bit to get into this one. But right around 20% in I ended up hooked. It was just as dramatic as I thought it was going to be, but I devoured for exactly that reason.
The MC, Dana, is definitely flawed. She absolutely recognizes her flaws though and doesn't pretend to be a perfect person. So I didn't mind her bad traits because let's be honest, none of us are perfect. She ends up in a very tricky situation and I felt so bad for her because it wasn't her fault at all. And in the middle of that mess she stumbles upon something great in Chase, but can't fully commit to it without it getting ugly. And she's in the middle of becoming an adult, so she's earning how her behavior towards others really affects people and is trying to change. And on top of all that she has got some enormous pressure from her dad and sister to be this amazing softball star. I so enjoyed all of these complicated aspects of her life and character.
Chase was hands down my favorite character, and every time he and Dana were together I straight up turned into the heart-eyed emoji. That romance was fun to read about, but it was also nice that it was not the focus of the book. Dana's struggles and her family unit are really what this book is about.
This ended up being a much more emotional read than I was anticipating. I was pleased by it, and liked what all of the characters learned how the story wrapped up in the end.
To be honest I was on the fence about this one going into it. On the one hand, I absolutely devoured and loved Abigail Johnson's first book, If I Fix You. However I also was skeptical about the plot of this one based on the summary. It just seemed like it was going to be a bunch of forced and eye-roll worthy drama. And I will admit that it took a bit to get into this one. But right around 20% in I ended up hooked. It was just as dramatic as I thought it was going to be, but I devoured for exactly that reason.
The MC, Dana, is definitely flawed. She absolutely recognizes her flaws though and doesn't pretend to be a perfect person. So I didn't mind her bad traits because let's be honest, none of us are perfect. She ends up in a very tricky situation and I felt so bad for her because it wasn't her fault at all. And in the middle of that mess she stumbles upon something great in Chase, but can't fully commit to it without it getting ugly. And she's in the middle of becoming an adult, so she's earning how her behavior towards others really affects people and is trying to change. And on top of all that she has got some enormous pressure from her dad and sister to be this amazing softball star. I so enjoyed all of these complicated aspects of her life and character.
Chase was hands down my favorite character, and every time he and Dana were together I straight up turned into the heart-eyed emoji. That romance was fun to read about, but it was also nice that it was not the focus of the book. Dana's struggles and her family unit are really what this book is about.
This ended up being a much more emotional read than I was anticipating. I was pleased by it, and liked what all of the characters learned how the story wrapped up in the end.
November 13, 2017
I would like Abigail to write all the things. Talk about feels. She knows how to write families!
June 12, 2019
En cuanto vi que iba a salir este libro supe que quería leerlo. La autora fue publicada en español por primera vez con su novela If I fix you y tras leerla, me conquistó. Me gusta su estilo y sus personajes, así como los temas que elige para tratar en sus historias, les da un enfoque diferente y siempre provee a sus personajes de una personalidad diferente, atractiva y dulce.
The first to know plantea la difícil situación en la Dana descubre, sin querer, que su padre tiene otro hijo, en este caso fuera del matrimonio. Gracias a un test de ADN que pretendía encontrar a familiares averiguó que hay un joven de su edad que es su hermano. Cargará con ese peso a lo largo del libro, la imagen que tenía de su padre ser verá perturbada, vivirá situaciones muy tensas y tendrá que tomar difíciles decisiones.
Considero que a esta autora le gusta escribir historias que son como una escena que captura de entre las vidas de los personajes. No son historias largas, conocemos este fragmento de la historia y terminan dejando entrever lo que podría ocurrir a continuación, pero aunque vemos la resolución del problema, no vamos más allá con más páginas, con un epílogo o menos aún con otro libro. Son lecturas perfectas para el verano o para cuando queremos un libro autoconclusivo que nos transmite buenas sensaciones. La problemática está ahí, desde luego, pero hay algo en sus personajes que desprende positivismo, quizá por sus reflexiones que dejan claras sus buenas intenciones, o por que siempre le da una cabida importante a la amistad, pero todas las características de estos libros hacen que sean para mí lecturas seguras.
El grupo de personajes es diverso y sus personalidades quedan bastante claras, a lo largo de la historia vemos como se presentan típicas disputas familiares que adquieren un cariz más profundo porque la protagonista es capaz de hacer que nos involucremos en ellas. Su hermana dará un cambio a su vida que a priori parece poco racional, por ejemplo, y ella se verá en la disyuntiva de querer apoyarla pero no tener muchas esperanzas en que ello funcione. Asuntos cotidianos que son muy bien llevados. Incluso los personajes secundarios como sus amigos tienen ciertas características que hacen que no sean meros personajes planos.
Chase será el chico que conozca el mismo día que se presentan ante su hermanastro y ahí dará comienzo una relación de amistad muy bonita y natural. Es un personaje que no llegaría a colocar como principal, pero aún así vemos que su vida también tiene sus propias complicaciones. Su madre lo ha tenido toda la vida junto a ella, así como a su hermano y a su sobrino, pero ahora que todos tienen planes para irse está desarrollando una obsesión por acumular cualquier tipo de objeto y Chase no sabe como ayudarla. Por su parte, Dana tiene miedo de que descubra el motivo por el que se conocieron y él crea que lo ha estado engañando todo ese tiempo. Lo cierto es que he disfrutado muchísimo con esta relación y me quedé con ganas de saber más.
La edición del libro cuenta con una portada muy chula y me alegra que la editorial la cambiase porque es más bonita que la original y además guarda parecidos con la de su primer libro publicado If I fix you, con tan solo verlo ya indica a quien pertenece y un poco el ambiente de Arizona que está presente en ambas historias.
Una buena narración, un buen ritmo, temas interesantes, personajes bien construidos… en suma, una gran lectura que termina de reafirmarme en que Abigail Johnson es una buena opción por la que apostar. Cualquiera de los dos libros merece mucho la pena así vuelvo a recomendarlos, los guardaré con mucho cariño en la estantería y crucemos los dedos para que la editorial siga confiando en esta autora.
The first to know plantea la difícil situación en la Dana descubre, sin querer, que su padre tiene otro hijo, en este caso fuera del matrimonio. Gracias a un test de ADN que pretendía encontrar a familiares averiguó que hay un joven de su edad que es su hermano. Cargará con ese peso a lo largo del libro, la imagen que tenía de su padre ser verá perturbada, vivirá situaciones muy tensas y tendrá que tomar difíciles decisiones.
Considero que a esta autora le gusta escribir historias que son como una escena que captura de entre las vidas de los personajes. No son historias largas, conocemos este fragmento de la historia y terminan dejando entrever lo que podría ocurrir a continuación, pero aunque vemos la resolución del problema, no vamos más allá con más páginas, con un epílogo o menos aún con otro libro. Son lecturas perfectas para el verano o para cuando queremos un libro autoconclusivo que nos transmite buenas sensaciones. La problemática está ahí, desde luego, pero hay algo en sus personajes que desprende positivismo, quizá por sus reflexiones que dejan claras sus buenas intenciones, o por que siempre le da una cabida importante a la amistad, pero todas las características de estos libros hacen que sean para mí lecturas seguras.
El grupo de personajes es diverso y sus personalidades quedan bastante claras, a lo largo de la historia vemos como se presentan típicas disputas familiares que adquieren un cariz más profundo porque la protagonista es capaz de hacer que nos involucremos en ellas. Su hermana dará un cambio a su vida que a priori parece poco racional, por ejemplo, y ella se verá en la disyuntiva de querer apoyarla pero no tener muchas esperanzas en que ello funcione. Asuntos cotidianos que son muy bien llevados. Incluso los personajes secundarios como sus amigos tienen ciertas características que hacen que no sean meros personajes planos.
Chase será el chico que conozca el mismo día que se presentan ante su hermanastro y ahí dará comienzo una relación de amistad muy bonita y natural. Es un personaje que no llegaría a colocar como principal, pero aún así vemos que su vida también tiene sus propias complicaciones. Su madre lo ha tenido toda la vida junto a ella, así como a su hermano y a su sobrino, pero ahora que todos tienen planes para irse está desarrollando una obsesión por acumular cualquier tipo de objeto y Chase no sabe como ayudarla. Por su parte, Dana tiene miedo de que descubra el motivo por el que se conocieron y él crea que lo ha estado engañando todo ese tiempo. Lo cierto es que he disfrutado muchísimo con esta relación y me quedé con ganas de saber más.
La edición del libro cuenta con una portada muy chula y me alegra que la editorial la cambiase porque es más bonita que la original y además guarda parecidos con la de su primer libro publicado If I fix you, con tan solo verlo ya indica a quien pertenece y un poco el ambiente de Arizona que está presente en ambas historias.
Una buena narración, un buen ritmo, temas interesantes, personajes bien construidos… en suma, una gran lectura que termina de reafirmarme en que Abigail Johnson es una buena opción por la que apostar. Cualquiera de los dos libros merece mucho la pena así vuelvo a recomendarlos, los guardaré con mucho cariño en la estantería y crucemos los dedos para que la editorial siga confiando en esta autora.
January 16, 2018
This was a fairly good/ interesting book. It wasn't my favorite, just because of how cliche it was, but I really enjoyed the story and how it unfolded. The main character, Dana, spends the whole book hiding a secret from her family, which makes the book very suspenseful because you never know who's going to find out/ when. I like how the author kept the reader guessing up until the last page. Overall, it was a pretty good book.
November 18, 2017
Human biology really interests me. I love learning about DNA, genetics and how people are the way they are. I also adore reading about family ties in contemporary novels. So, imagine my excitement when I found out that they were all meshed together in this book!
The First to Know definitely met my expectations for a good read. In spite of a few problems I had with it such as its whiny protagonist, I really enjoyed all of its other elements and I can see myself recommending it to other readers.
For a brief summary, this novel follows teenage protagonist Dana. For a nice birthday surprise, Dana decides to run a DNA test for her dad so he could find his unknown parents or other relatives. However, she finds a half-brother, Brandon, instead and is left flabbergasted. She would like to get to know him, but does not want to lose her dad's trust. So, she decides to meet and make an effort with his cousin Chase, and get to know her half-brother through him. Soon enough, she and Chase are falling for each other. Can Dana keep this a secret without destroying her dad's trust?
As I touched on, Dana was not the most agreeable character. Her stubbornness and constant complaints turned me off, and for the most part I couldn't stand her. Fortunately, all of the other aspects of this book were strong enough to overweigh this, so it is easy for me to shift my focus off of Dana and onto the positives about this wonderful story.
In light of the positives, the plot was quite unique and captivating. Although it didn't have the most realistic storyline in that I don't think it would be as easy for Dana to get in touch with her stepbrother in real life, it was for sure riveting enough to be relatable and enjoyable. I thought that the romance with Dana and Chase, though unlikely, was adorable as well!
To sum everything up, The First to Know was an interesting story. The storyline had me enthralled and the writing style was up to par, however the unlikable character of Dana is what bothered me the most. If you are into heartwarming and captivating stories centring around family ties and cute romance, then be sure to give this book a try!
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book from Indigo Books & Music Inc. in exchange for an honest review.*
The First to Know definitely met my expectations for a good read. In spite of a few problems I had with it such as its whiny protagonist, I really enjoyed all of its other elements and I can see myself recommending it to other readers.
For a brief summary, this novel follows teenage protagonist Dana. For a nice birthday surprise, Dana decides to run a DNA test for her dad so he could find his unknown parents or other relatives. However, she finds a half-brother, Brandon, instead and is left flabbergasted. She would like to get to know him, but does not want to lose her dad's trust. So, she decides to meet and make an effort with his cousin Chase, and get to know her half-brother through him. Soon enough, she and Chase are falling for each other. Can Dana keep this a secret without destroying her dad's trust?
As I touched on, Dana was not the most agreeable character. Her stubbornness and constant complaints turned me off, and for the most part I couldn't stand her. Fortunately, all of the other aspects of this book were strong enough to overweigh this, so it is easy for me to shift my focus off of Dana and onto the positives about this wonderful story.
In light of the positives, the plot was quite unique and captivating. Although it didn't have the most realistic storyline in that I don't think it would be as easy for Dana to get in touch with her stepbrother in real life, it was for sure riveting enough to be relatable and enjoyable. I thought that the romance with Dana and Chase, though unlikely, was adorable as well!
To sum everything up, The First to Know was an interesting story. The storyline had me enthralled and the writing style was up to par, however the unlikable character of Dana is what bothered me the most. If you are into heartwarming and captivating stories centring around family ties and cute romance, then be sure to give this book a try!
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book from Indigo Books & Music Inc. in exchange for an honest review.*
May 14, 2020
May 14th 2020
Rereading because I need sunshine and love and forgiveness and beauty themes rn.
.
YA fiction in the contemporary genre?
Hard to please me.
And then I found Abigail Johnson.....
I adore her books and have read every one I can get my hands on. It's broken people with messy lives who find hope and love and I adore them. Dana is a jerk in the beginning and I disliked her terribly. She used Chase to get to her half brother, was a brat to her family and friends, and in general wasn't someone you want to get to know.
But isn't that the point of character development? By the last chapter I wanted to go into a ball and sob because of the beauty of it all.
Am I overly dramatic? Possibly...but truth people, these are good books.
I know some readers gave it shame but Abigail takes hard topics such as affairs and uses them well. Most authors would take a messy subject and spoil the book, taking too much time to focus on the mess instead of the growth of the characters or even creating an interesting plot.
While this plot doesn't sound gripping, waiting for Dana to do the whole reveal of who Brandon is was in of itself suspenseful.
Highly recommend!
Rereading because I need sunshine and love and forgiveness and beauty themes rn.
.
YA fiction in the contemporary genre?
Hard to please me.
And then I found Abigail Johnson.....
I adore her books and have read every one I can get my hands on. It's broken people with messy lives who find hope and love and I adore them. Dana is a jerk in the beginning and I disliked her terribly. She used Chase to get to her half brother, was a brat to her family and friends, and in general wasn't someone you want to get to know.
But isn't that the point of character development? By the last chapter I wanted to go into a ball and sob because of the beauty of it all.
Am I overly dramatic? Possibly...but truth people, these are good books.
I know some readers gave it shame but Abigail takes hard topics such as affairs and uses them well. Most authors would take a messy subject and spoil the book, taking too much time to focus on the mess instead of the growth of the characters or even creating an interesting plot.
While this plot doesn't sound gripping, waiting for Dana to do the whole reveal of who Brandon is was in of itself suspenseful.
Highly recommend!
April 22, 2020
Wow. If there was any doubt whether I'm an Abigail Johnson fan, this book puts that doubt to rest. To be honest, this was the only book of hers I hadn't read, and that because I didn't think it sounded like something I would be interested in. But then I remembered how much I've enjoyed all her other books and decided to give this one a shot and I'm so glad I did!
I really felt her struggle and internal debate on whom to tell or not tell. I didn't like that she wasn't forthcoming with but understood her hesitation with the delicate subject matter. Also, I seriously liked Chase. I wish she'd have explained to him, but I was happy with the way it played out in the end.
I really felt her struggle and internal debate on whom to tell or not tell. I didn't like that she wasn't forthcoming with but understood her hesitation with the delicate subject matter. Also, I seriously liked Chase. I wish she'd have explained to him, but I was happy with the way it played out in the end.
April 18, 2018
A book with so much heart! THE FIRST TO KNOW is about family and secrets and betrayal and mostly about love. Beautifully told with an ending that gives you all the feels.
Read
June 7, 2024Den här tyckte jag mycket om! Det är DNA-tester och allt drama som kan komma med dem, och allt får vara svårt och krångligt, och huvudpersonen får vara en idiot, och man hejar ändå på henne. Lite väl lyckligt slut i förhållande till det kanske men det fungerar.
Har läst så mycket romantiska böcker där folk bara svävar i ett vakuum av personer att prata om sin kärleksrelation med, och det var befriande med familjerelationerna. (Och vänskapsrelationerna delvis med). Att familj kan vara så mycket kärlek och så mycket svårt. Att ha sin pappa som softballcoach som är pappa utanför planen och coach på. En pappa med störd anknytning som försöker göra bättre.
Och så var det ändå en sån kärlekshistoria. Som inte tog över, och jag ville ha mer av den men förstod precis varför det inte var mer av den. Men Chase, en riktig hjälte.
Författaren har skrivit flera andra böcker och jag ska testa Every Other Weekend härnäst tror jag, men jag ska sticka emellan med något lite hjärndödare först.
Har läst så mycket romantiska böcker där folk bara svävar i ett vakuum av personer att prata om sin kärleksrelation med, och det var befriande med familjerelationerna. (Och vänskapsrelationerna delvis med). Att familj kan vara så mycket kärlek och så mycket svårt. Att ha sin pappa som softballcoach som är pappa utanför planen och coach på. En pappa med störd anknytning som försöker göra bättre.
Och så var det ändå en sån kärlekshistoria. Som inte tog över, och jag ville ha mer av den men förstod precis varför det inte var mer av den. Men Chase, en riktig hjälte.
Författaren har skrivit flera andra böcker och jag ska testa Every Other Weekend härnäst tror jag, men jag ska sticka emellan med något lite hjärndödare först.
February 19, 2022
The Alphabet Project: F
https://youtu.be/QBWdQMZXDpM
https://youtu.be/QBWdQMZXDpM
April 22, 2019
I just finished this book and I loved it so much I'm having a hard time assembling my thoughts - because this was a pretty intense emotional roller-coaster ride of the very best kind - one that has deep things to say about giving the people you love second chances (I have never read a contemporary YA novel that managed to keep the emotional tension building like this until only a few pages before the incredibly satisfying ending). This author is also at the top of her game when it comes to heartfelt, romantic pacing - the chemistry between Dana and Chase is both lovely and heated - what great characters. Beautifully done, Abigail Johnson - bravo.
January 15, 2018
This was one of those YA books where I read it all in one sitting and then when I finished I wasn't sure if I liked it or if it was just an easy read...
December 18, 2017
Nope.
This was depressing and predictable. Dana was a selfish, annoying little brat and the rest of her family wasn’t much better...neither was her best friend or that weird, mute guy Nick. Chase was ok, I guess, but I really didn’t care about any of those characters.
This was depressing and predictable. Dana was a selfish, annoying little brat and the rest of her family wasn’t much better...neither was her best friend or that weird, mute guy Nick. Chase was ok, I guess, but I really didn’t care about any of those characters.
December 8, 2017
tl;dr review: This concept excited me so much and it was executed so well. The romance totally won me over in this, which doesn't always happen, but you guys, those beautifully complicated family dynamics slayed me. I love Abigail Johnson so much for her awesome sister bff-ery portrayal, especially . I literally cried at least twice reading this, which is a hard sell for me if it doesn't involve an animal's death.
P.S. This is the second Abigail Johnson book I've read, and I have to say, she does complicated emotional journeys and family situations well.
P.S. This is the second Abigail Johnson book I've read, and I have to say, she does complicated emotional journeys and family situations well.
January 8, 2018
4.5 stars!! Part of me liked how the book ended, but at the same time I would've been okay with it going the way I thought it was heading. This book will rip your heart out and put it back together, but in that way where you can tell it's been broken.
Seriously, just read this book! It's freaking great!!!
Seriously, just read this book! It's freaking great!!!
August 22, 2018
Another great YA Contemporary to add to my "Read" list. Abigail Johnson is becoming one of my favorite contemporary authors! I can't wait to read more from her!
January 20, 2019
I heard about this book from the chapter a day book mail, months ago.
Be careful what you wish for.
Dana thought getting a DNA test done for her dad, who grew up in foster homes, was a nice thing.
Little did she know that a huge can of worms would be opened big time. From finding out who the 50 percent match was, talking to them..............keeping it from her family, what a ride this book was.
We all want the fairy tale, find a missing family member, meet and hug and presto instant loving connection.
Does this happen in the book?
Not going to reveal it.
Who is the mystery person?
not going to reveal it.
I did like the tight bond between Dana and her sister and parents, it was a strong point for the book.
Loved the softball aspect too even though some of it was difficult for them.
I really enjoyed the characters, each was true to themselves and it kept me guessing in a lot of places.
A good solid book.
back cover
Dana Fields's father never knew his parents. When Dana secretly does a DNA test for her dad, hoping to find him some distant relatives for his birthday, her entire world implodes. Instead of a few third cousins, Dana discovers a half brother her age whose very existence means her parents' happy marriage is a lie.
Dana's desire to know her half brother, Brandon, and the extent of her dad's deception, clashes with her wish not to destroy her family. When she sees the opportunity to get to know Brandon through his cousin, the intense yet kind Chase, she takes it. But the more she finds out about Brandon, her father's past and the irresistible guy who'll never forgive her if he discovers the truth, the more she sees the inevitable fallout from her own lies. With her family crumbling around her, Dana must own up to her actions and find a way to heal the breach—for everyone—before they're torn apart for good.
Be careful what you wish for.
Dana thought getting a DNA test done for her dad, who grew up in foster homes, was a nice thing.
Little did she know that a huge can of worms would be opened big time. From finding out who the 50 percent match was, talking to them..............keeping it from her family, what a ride this book was.
We all want the fairy tale, find a missing family member, meet and hug and presto instant loving connection.
Does this happen in the book?
Not going to reveal it.
Who is the mystery person?
not going to reveal it.
I did like the tight bond between Dana and her sister and parents, it was a strong point for the book.
Loved the softball aspect too even though some of it was difficult for them.
I really enjoyed the characters, each was true to themselves and it kept me guessing in a lot of places.
A good solid book.
back cover
Dana Fields's father never knew his parents. When Dana secretly does a DNA test for her dad, hoping to find him some distant relatives for his birthday, her entire world implodes. Instead of a few third cousins, Dana discovers a half brother her age whose very existence means her parents' happy marriage is a lie.
Dana's desire to know her half brother, Brandon, and the extent of her dad's deception, clashes with her wish not to destroy her family. When she sees the opportunity to get to know Brandon through his cousin, the intense yet kind Chase, she takes it. But the more she finds out about Brandon, her father's past and the irresistible guy who'll never forgive her if he discovers the truth, the more she sees the inevitable fallout from her own lies. With her family crumbling around her, Dana must own up to her actions and find a way to heal the breach—for everyone—before they're torn apart for good.
April 4, 2019
Es un libro un poco cliché en cuanto a personajes. Trata una historia que no es para nada novedosa que es el descubrimiento de un familiar desconocido. Y aún encima, una protagonista poco atrevida y lenta. Es decir, la historia en sí es lenta, pero ella, como no se atreve a dar el paso lo es aún más. No me ha gustado demasiado. Ha estado entretenido sin más.
Reseña completa:
https://noelautnerstory.blogspot.com/...
Reseña completa:
https://noelautnerstory.blogspot.com/...
January 30, 2018
"...That kind of love is more than a feeling or a word. That kind of love is an action, a promise, and it's not dependent on perfection or ideals. It's real and lasting and worth everything. It's worth fighting for. And we're fighters, yes?"
This was not at all what I was expecting it was so much better. The plot was heavy but it was delivered in such a sweet and fun way while still ripping my heart out along the way. I hope there is a follow up book on these guys lives becuase I am so in for that!!
This was not at all what I was expecting it was so much better. The plot was heavy but it was delivered in such a sweet and fun way while still ripping my heart out along the way. I hope there is a follow up book on these guys lives becuase I am so in for that!!
April 9, 2019
I saw this book on my daughter dresser and decided that I would give it a try because she loves to write and she has great taste in books as well. Man let me tell you that this book held my attention the whole time I was reading it. I related so much with it. After reading it I found out that it was a teen book but I didn't care because it was so good that I would have never known.
January 19, 2018
3.5 stars. This one tackles a tough situation. Dana wants more than anything to give her father family for his birthday. He never knew his birth parents, so he has nothing to fill in on his family tree. She wants him to have what he is missing, so she decides to submit a DNA test to a family history sight to find lost relatives. What she finds is a smack in the face. Instead of distant relatives, she finds a brother who just happens to be her age. That means her blissfully in love parents may be hiding a not so blissful past. With a sister a couple years older than her, she knows what a brother her age means. She can't even face her father, knowing he betrayed his family all those years ago. She is determined to find out what her father knows, if anything, about Brandon's existence. She is also dead set on getting to know her brother, despite the fact that he wants nothing to do with her. May lives are completely upended in this story that started with good intentions and ends in wreckage. Dana digs herself further into the hole she has created and can only hope to find a way out that doesn't leave everyone involved completely destroyed. This is a brutal story of love, lies and family that leaves every character forever changed. Overall I enjoyed the emotion and heartbreak this book evoked.
March 4, 2018
Full review to come on my blog!
January 14, 2019
This book was such a good read! The plot had twists and turns that I didn’t even see coming but I really loved it. I loved getting to know Dana and Chase and the rest of the characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews