Name: Family First
ISBN: 9781913905071

Sbrina

A set of triplets who overcame the death of their mother and made a name for themselves. Three different siblings three different minds. Betrayal and regret takes them on an adventures of self discovery and forgiveness. I have two sisters with my face trying to kill each other on our family vacation, an on again off again girlfriend with commitment issues and a motor mouth grandmother. As a successful multi millionaire, leader in my community and a big...nevermind, you'd think I had everything. Well I do and can get anything I want I should be happy right? WRONG! The drama I'm facing, the pressure I'm under! I'm going to need another vacation.

Living larger than life has its price...

Family First

Shelby Goodwin

Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and views expressed below belong entirely to me.

At its core, and as its title suggests, this book is rich in familial themes, which was a welcome change of pace for me! I grew up loving to read about family dynamics, such as Little House on the Prairie, Sense and Sensibility, and Little Women, but Family First felt so powerfully raw and real. 

From the start, I immediately appreciated how the author characterizes each one of the Valentine triplets with their own set of unique qualities. You cannot help but feel as if you actually know these people, that’s how intricately the author has designed each of them. I adored Autumn because as an older sister myself, I completely relate to her, not to mention her relationship with sweet little Surprise. Winter was perhaps my favorite because I admire her fiery spirit so much, although she totally stresses me out! I also adored Storm and Sunshine so much. 

I feel the strongest and most admirable part of this novel is the well-written development of the triplets’ sibling bond–one that, at times, feels almost supernatural, which completely fascinated me! The ending left me feeling broken, so I am definitely interested to see how this story continues…

Recommended for fans of contemporary fiction, especially if you're partial to family related rollercoaster rides of nonstop emotion and drama, with a moving message of love.

Thais Lopes

Family First follows the story of the Valentine triplets: Storm, Winter and Autumn. Born on valentines day and raised by their single-mom, the triplets form an unique and strong bond that connects them deeply. This novel has a strong focus on the characters (my favorite novels are character-driven!) and family dynamics. 

I felt the strongest connection to Winter! I also always speak my mind and like to be heard (its the latina blood in me). I enjoyed her sass and strong personality. All three of the triplets have very characteristic traits and quirks that are very well written, which made you feel like you really know these characters. Their relationship has such a powerful connection that sometimes it even seemed like they could read each others minds.

The ending was a bit unexpected and I am definitely hoping there is a sequel! I recommend this book if you like to read contemporary fiction with focus on family ties, curve balls that life throws at you, feeling like something is missing even though we have everything we could ever want... A profound adventure of self-discovery and kinship. 

Maria Elena Vitale Zelaia

As the title suggest, this book was all about family. The story revolves around triplets Autumn, Winter and Storm Valentine. The Valentine triplets were born out of a clandestine relationship. Their father abandoned their mother the moment he learned of the pregnancy, and she chose to raise her children all by herself. She taught them the meaning of love, family, and sacrifice that the three hold onto always, even as they navigate their busy and rewarding adult lives managing a successful business.

More than any significant event, the plot rather revolves around the various dramas—big or small—that surround the siblings individually and as a unit. We see the Valentine triplets live their everyday lives in alternating perspectives, and then we follow them onto their vacation. This is primarily a character-driven book, and the most important aspect of the story is the bond between the triplets, which I thought was beautiful and my favorite thing about the book. The Valentine twins have very strong personalities, yet they’re unique and very different from one another. The author was able to convey those differences, and the love and devotion these siblings have for one another, but she also showed us their strengths and insecurities. Through a series of events, we watch them undergo personal discoveries and growth, and overcome challenges together as a family. Though it’s difficult to choose a favorite, I resonated the most with Autumn, simply because I could see some of myself in her. She definitely has a stronger personality than me, but she’s the most compassionate and sweetest of the three.

I had the impression this was a standalone, though the ending was quite open and felt abrupt. I wonder if the author is considering returning to these characters with another book. If yes, then I’m curious to see what happens next!

Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.

Family First

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