What do you think?
Rate this book
First, Last, and Always
CHARLOTTE Hubbard dreams about falling in love on a daily basis, but she’s long rejected the idea that someone would ever be interested in an overweight, unappealing girl like her; an opinion that is shared by her way more popular and attractive sister who seems to enjoy pointing out Charlotte's flaws as much as possible.
AND . . .
Then there's MILES Fiester, who thinks that making the basketball team is as impossible as getting the girl he’s liked since grade school to notice him. He’d have more luck getting his deadbeat dad to visit him for a day. But, in the first few weeks of high school, Charlotte and Miles come to discover that life is unpredictable, love happens when you least expect it, and there’s always a first for everything.
AND . . .
Then there's MILES Fiester, who thinks that making the basketball team is as impossible as getting the girl he’s liked since grade school to notice him. He’d have more luck getting his deadbeat dad to visit him for a day. But, in the first few weeks of high school, Charlotte and Miles come to discover that life is unpredictable, love happens when you least expect it, and there’s always a first for everything.
296 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
6 people are currently reading
487 people want to read
About the author
Kim Lehman
5 books31 followersKim Lehman is an author of children's and young adult books. She is also the publisher and book designer of MY BOOKET LIST (a Book Lover's Journal).
Kim's passion for writing was fostered during childhood by her grandfather who spent over forty years working for a major publishing company and spoiled her with endless amounts of fiction books. When she is not plotting her next creative adventure, she leads strategic projects and process improvements initiatives for companies. She is a puppy raiser for guide dogs, an aunt to four ridiculously awesome nieces and nephews, a wife to an incredibly supportive Engineer, and dog mom to a Springer Spaniel whose counter-surfing skills get him in trouble daily.
Kim's passion for writing was fostered during childhood by her grandfather who spent over forty years working for a major publishing company and spoiled her with endless amounts of fiction books. When she is not plotting her next creative adventure, she leads strategic projects and process improvements initiatives for companies. She is a puppy raiser for guide dogs, an aunt to four ridiculously awesome nieces and nephews, a wife to an incredibly supportive Engineer, and dog mom to a Springer Spaniel whose counter-surfing skills get him in trouble daily.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 12, 2015
First last always
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Kim Lehman, Lucky Stars Publishing, and NetGalley.)
“I, Miles Fiester, am in love with Charlotte Hubbard.”
This was quite a young YA contemporary romance, about best friends who fall in love (eventually).
I felt quite sorry for Charlotte, it’s awful to be bullied, especially because you are fat, and when even your own mother isn’t happy about your size it’s not much fun!
“These are my present realities:
I am big.
I am boring.
I am boyfriendless.”
Miles was an okay character, although he really did act like a bit of a doormat at times. It can’t be easy when you’re in love with your best friend and she is oblivious though.
“I’ve been totally crazy about her since third grade,”
The storyline in this was about Charlotte and the boy at school that she fancied – Grayson. There were some ups and downs because Miles like Charlotte, and Charlotte’s friend Vanessa liked Grayson, but I found the pace in this pretty slow, and it just didn’t hold my attention very well at all.
“You want me to find out for you if he has a girlfriend?”
The storyline in this was pretty much all about the romance, but I just didn’t have any strong feelings about any of the possible relationships in this book which was disappointing.
“Actually, I don’t really care if he has a girlfriend. Just tell him I want to go out with him.”
The ending to this was a ‘Happily Ever After’, but it just didn’t feel realistic to me.
6 out of 10
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Kim Lehman, Lucky Stars Publishing, and NetGalley.)
“I, Miles Fiester, am in love with Charlotte Hubbard.”
This was quite a young YA contemporary romance, about best friends who fall in love (eventually).
I felt quite sorry for Charlotte, it’s awful to be bullied, especially because you are fat, and when even your own mother isn’t happy about your size it’s not much fun!
“These are my present realities:
I am big.
I am boring.
I am boyfriendless.”
Miles was an okay character, although he really did act like a bit of a doormat at times. It can’t be easy when you’re in love with your best friend and she is oblivious though.
“I’ve been totally crazy about her since third grade,”
The storyline in this was about Charlotte and the boy at school that she fancied – Grayson. There were some ups and downs because Miles like Charlotte, and Charlotte’s friend Vanessa liked Grayson, but I found the pace in this pretty slow, and it just didn’t hold my attention very well at all.
“You want me to find out for you if he has a girlfriend?”
The storyline in this was pretty much all about the romance, but I just didn’t have any strong feelings about any of the possible relationships in this book which was disappointing.
“Actually, I don’t really care if he has a girlfriend. Just tell him I want to go out with him.”
The ending to this was a ‘Happily Ever After’, but it just didn’t feel realistic to me.
6 out of 10
April 7, 2015
Official Rating: 3.5
Thank you netgalley for sending me this book in exchange of an honest review
I'd really enjoy this book, is fun, unique and a bit emotional.
The story follows two protagonist Charlotte and Miles. Charlotte is an oversize girl, who is dying to be in love. Miles, Charlotte's best friend, who is dying to let Charlotte knows he is in love with her.
That's basically all what you need to know about this book....
Charlotte is your standard protagonist but she's not beautiful. When miles describes why he likes her, he talks more of her personality rather then her looks. Given that she has a sweet personality.
And like most teens she think she "loves" someone just base of their charming looks and a few winks.
And like me she believes that she's not good enough and she's extremely insecure of herself believing that guys does not fall in love with girls like her.
Miles, he's an extremely sweet protagonist who had been falling in love with the same girl ever since third grade. He's afraid of telling her his feelings because he does not want to lose her friendship. So every time he had to witness Charlotte falling in love with different guys which absolutely breaks his heart. But whenever Charlotte needs someone he's there for her. He has an utterly brave heart, even though he failed more then anyone he never loses hope. These are the characteristics that made him one of my favorite protagonist in general.
What I love most about Kim Lehman's books is that she always know how to write a good story that's affects the minds of readers and her ability to create characters that are real and honest. In addition, There is no insta love, which I appreciate a lot, getting to see how their relationship progresses it's amazing. While I did not cry and feel as connected which I did in her other book righteous, this book is way more relatable then the other one.
At all points in our life, we feel insecure about ourself. Believing that we're not good enough for anyone. The Author has successfully bring this topic to view and show to readers that goodness is always better then beauty and we shall never let others opinion affect ourselves.
As much as I found this book relatable, I do have some minor issues with it.
For some reasons which I'm speaking in general not just in this book, authors tends to portray high school as an extremely dramatical place. Where everyone is fake and oh well mean pretty girls loved to flirt and loses their virginity. Those "nerds" or "uglies" are losers.
Well in my perspective high school isn't always that extreme. For instant like my school, I'm not saying everyone is nice to everyone. But as much as the mean girls go, they aren't exactly fake. Pretty girls whom are popular doesn't exactly "flirt". Lastly nerds aren't exactly losers.
I'm not saying all schools are all sweet and innocent, but for what I believe majority isn't the same as what authors tend to portray high school to be. For what I know mean girls aren't always shallow, they just tend to have worst personality then others. So what I'm saying is that it's a bit stereotype.
Anyway overall I think this is a good book, I'm not sure if the romance is actually "realistic" but it is unique and different from what I normally read. I'll recommend this book to anyone who loves basically contemporary, as it tackles all sort of different subjects and fall understand different genres.
Oh and I wrote this review on my phone, I apologize for any "major" grammatical errors.
Thank you netgalley for sending me this book in exchange of an honest review
It's not the first love that counts, it's the last one that matters.
I'd really enjoy this book, is fun, unique and a bit emotional.
The story follows two protagonist Charlotte and Miles. Charlotte is an oversize girl, who is dying to be in love. Miles, Charlotte's best friend, who is dying to let Charlotte knows he is in love with her.
Love is ageless and timeless and colorless and shapeless and it happens upon you when you least expect it;
That's basically all what you need to know about this book....
Charlotte is your standard protagonist but she's not beautiful. When miles describes why he likes her, he talks more of her personality rather then her looks. Given that she has a sweet personality.
And like most teens she think she "loves" someone just base of their charming looks and a few winks.
Is it too much to hope that I'll meet someone who wants to hold my hand, or call me just because he misses the sound of my voice? Is it really crazy to want to find that one person who cares about me more than anything?
And like me she believes that she's not good enough and she's extremely insecure of herself believing that guys does not fall in love with girls like her.
Boys prefer pretty girls like Jessica. I do not fall into that category.
Miles, he's an extremely sweet protagonist who had been falling in love with the same girl ever since third grade. He's afraid of telling her his feelings because he does not want to lose her friendship. So every time he had to witness Charlotte falling in love with different guys which absolutely breaks his heart. But whenever Charlotte needs someone he's there for her. He has an utterly brave heart, even though he failed more then anyone he never loses hope. These are the characteristics that made him one of my favorite protagonist in general.
Nobody can tell you'll find or feel love. Love doesn't know how old you are.
What I love most about Kim Lehman's books is that she always know how to write a good story that's affects the minds of readers and her ability to create characters that are real and honest. In addition, There is no insta love, which I appreciate a lot, getting to see how their relationship progresses it's amazing. While I did not cry and feel as connected which I did in her other book righteous, this book is way more relatable then the other one.
At all points in our life, we feel insecure about ourself. Believing that we're not good enough for anyone. The Author has successfully bring this topic to view and show to readers that goodness is always better then beauty and we shall never let others opinion affect ourselves.
So next time you want to say something me or anyone else. Save it. 'Cause I don't speak asshole.
As much as I found this book relatable, I do have some minor issues with it.
For some reasons which I'm speaking in general not just in this book, authors tends to portray high school as an extremely dramatical place. Where everyone is fake and oh well mean pretty girls loved to flirt and loses their virginity. Those "nerds" or "uglies" are losers.
Well in my perspective high school isn't always that extreme. For instant like my school, I'm not saying everyone is nice to everyone. But as much as the mean girls go, they aren't exactly fake. Pretty girls whom are popular doesn't exactly "flirt". Lastly nerds aren't exactly losers.
I'm not saying all schools are all sweet and innocent, but for what I believe majority isn't the same as what authors tend to portray high school to be. For what I know mean girls aren't always shallow, they just tend to have worst personality then others. So what I'm saying is that it's a bit stereotype.
Anyway overall I think this is a good book, I'm not sure if the romance is actually "realistic" but it is unique and different from what I normally read. I'll recommend this book to anyone who loves basically contemporary, as it tackles all sort of different subjects and fall understand different genres.
Like you said, we choose our first and we choose are last. We choose what we want.
Oh and I wrote this review on my phone, I apologize for any "major" grammatical errors.
April 13, 2015
(I received a copy from Netgalley, In exchange for an honest review.)
I felt quite sorry for Charlotte at points. It's horrible to be bullied at school for your weight, and it's even worse when your family doesn't seem to understand.
Miles was an okay character too, but her other best friend Lani annoyed me quite often.
This wasn't a bad read, but I didn't enjoy it all that much. There wasn't much going on, and the romance build up was really slow, so I found it to be pretty dull at times.
Overall, Slow, but not a bad read.
I felt quite sorry for Charlotte at points. It's horrible to be bullied at school for your weight, and it's even worse when your family doesn't seem to understand.
Miles was an okay character too, but her other best friend Lani annoyed me quite often.
This wasn't a bad read, but I didn't enjoy it all that much. There wasn't much going on, and the romance build up was really slow, so I found it to be pretty dull at times.
Overall, Slow, but not a bad read.
April 24, 2015
link to review
Charlotte Hubbard is overweight and shy, living in the shadow of her pretty and popular sister, Alexa. Charlotte dreams of falling in love, and wonders out loud to her best friends, Lani and Miles, who could ever love her?
Miles Fiester has loved Charlotte since the third grade, but has never found a good time to tell her. When she thinks the new boy, Grayson, may like her, he panics. He might have lost his chance.
As they start their first year of high school, is now finally the right time for Miles to tell Charlotte how he feels?
There is so much heartache in this book, I could barely cope. I really felt sorry for Miles. Nothing ever goes right for him - he can't tell Charlotte how he feels in case it ruins their friendship, his deadbeat is always making promises he can't keep, and his dream of finally making the basketball team after so many failed attempts looks further away than ever. I really liked Miles, and I found it admirable that he never gave up.
Also, Charlotte gets bullied quite a bit. But it's not only from the kids at school, but her own sister does it too. Alexa may not see that she's doing it, but it's still hurtful to be called fat by a member of your own family.
I really enjoyed this book, I loved that it was dual perspective, because that way you could follow both Miles and Charlotte around. It was really well-written, and I especially loved hoe sarcastic Miles was.
Charlotte Hubbard is overweight and shy, living in the shadow of her pretty and popular sister, Alexa. Charlotte dreams of falling in love, and wonders out loud to her best friends, Lani and Miles, who could ever love her?
Miles Fiester has loved Charlotte since the third grade, but has never found a good time to tell her. When she thinks the new boy, Grayson, may like her, he panics. He might have lost his chance.
As they start their first year of high school, is now finally the right time for Miles to tell Charlotte how he feels?
There is so much heartache in this book, I could barely cope. I really felt sorry for Miles. Nothing ever goes right for him - he can't tell Charlotte how he feels in case it ruins their friendship, his deadbeat is always making promises he can't keep, and his dream of finally making the basketball team after so many failed attempts looks further away than ever. I really liked Miles, and I found it admirable that he never gave up.
Also, Charlotte gets bullied quite a bit. But it's not only from the kids at school, but her own sister does it too. Alexa may not see that she's doing it, but it's still hurtful to be called fat by a member of your own family.
I really enjoyed this book, I loved that it was dual perspective, because that way you could follow both Miles and Charlotte around. It was really well-written, and I especially loved hoe sarcastic Miles was.
August 24, 2015
I received this book on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
First, Last, and Always is a novel I admit I'm a tad disappointed with. I thought it was going to be so good when I read the summary but while reading it just didn't live up to my expectations.
Why?
1) I don't ship Charlotte and Miles. Throughout the story In fact I thought that Lani and Miles had more chemistry to be perfectly honest.
2) I liked the story at the very beginning but it just went downhill for me after that because I just couldn't connect to the majority of the characters and there were boring parts.
3) The ending was a bit unrealistic for my taste.
It wasn't all disappointing though. One thing I truly enjoyed was the fact that this book has two points-of-view (Miles and Charlotte).
First, Last, and Always is a novel I admit I'm a tad disappointed with. I thought it was going to be so good when I read the summary but while reading it just didn't live up to my expectations.
Why?
1) I don't ship Charlotte and Miles. Throughout the story In fact I thought that Lani and Miles had more chemistry to be perfectly honest.
2) I liked the story at the very beginning but it just went downhill for me after that because I just couldn't connect to the majority of the characters and there were boring parts.
3) The ending was a bit unrealistic for my taste.
It wasn't all disappointing though. One thing I truly enjoyed was the fact that this book has two points-of-view (Miles and Charlotte).
April 30, 2015
this book was quite boring. the romance was okay, but it took a long time to get going. it was bad the way charlotte was bullied. it wasn't her fault she was fat.
October 23, 2018
(I received this book from Net galley in exchange for my honest review)
I hand on heart loved this book! The characters were so believable that I fell in love with them instantly and the ones that the author wanted us to dislike, I heavily disliked. It may sound odd to say that I was invested in the characters with this being a standalone but I seriously was!!! I was so frustrated when Charlotte and Miles in particular were mistreated and elated when they had a bit of luck. Charlotte and Miles were just such nice characters and were clearly innocently stumbling into their first year of high school and the author does a great job of capturing the excitement and terror of this experience.
The dynamics in the characters' relationships were so interesting such as between Charlotte and Miles as well as Charlotte and her sister Alexa. The author actually showed what good friends Miles and Charlotte are in the many moments of them just hanging out which is sometimes missed in books. I love Miles so much because he's just the sweetest, most understanding and loyal friend anyone could wish for and it breaks my heart when he is constantly let down. And can I just say how amazing Miles' mum is, she's literally the best!!!
Charlotte is such an honest character that I'm sure anyone who has been a teenage girl can relate to her in some way. She's trying so hard to love herself and convince herself that anyone would be interested in her, as well as dealing with harsh comments from her sister and people at school. She's simply trying to find her feet and is endlessly lovely to everyone around her but she can't catch a break. Charlotte's best friend, Lani, was such a hilarious character but I have to admit I did find her overbearing at first but grew to love every bit of her eccentric being and would love her in my corner the way she protects Charlotte so fiercely.
The main romance in the book is definitely not insta-love and it's so nice to see how the relationship blossomed over time and how many times things were left unsaid. The back story of the relationship is so cute that your heart will just melt. This has to be one of my favourite relationships as it wasn't cheesy or over the top. It was adorable!!! I usually hate the endings of books but this was just right and Miles' letter was perfect.
I'm truly surprised that this book and the author are not receiving more recognition as they are both great. Kim's writing is so beautifully honest in capturing feelings that you are actually able to identify with what the characters are feeling throughout the whole book. I cannot recommend this book enough to all you contemporary lovers.
5/5I hand on heart loved this book! The characters were so believable that I fell in love with them instantly and the ones that the author wanted us to dislike, I heavily disliked. It may sound odd to say that I was invested in the characters with this being a standalone but I seriously was!!! I was so frustrated when Charlotte and Miles in particular were mistreated and elated when they had a bit of luck. Charlotte and Miles were just such nice characters and were clearly innocently stumbling into their first year of high school and the author does a great job of capturing the excitement and terror of this experience.
The dynamics in the characters' relationships were so interesting such as between Charlotte and Miles as well as Charlotte and her sister Alexa. The author actually showed what good friends Miles and Charlotte are in the many moments of them just hanging out which is sometimes missed in books. I love Miles so much because he's just the sweetest, most understanding and loyal friend anyone could wish for and it breaks my heart when he is constantly let down. And can I just say how amazing Miles' mum is, she's literally the best!!!
Charlotte is such an honest character that I'm sure anyone who has been a teenage girl can relate to her in some way. She's trying so hard to love herself and convince herself that anyone would be interested in her, as well as dealing with harsh comments from her sister and people at school. She's simply trying to find her feet and is endlessly lovely to everyone around her but she can't catch a break. Charlotte's best friend, Lani, was such a hilarious character but I have to admit I did find her overbearing at first but grew to love every bit of her eccentric being and would love her in my corner the way she protects Charlotte so fiercely.
The main romance in the book is definitely not insta-love and it's so nice to see how the relationship blossomed over time and how many times things were left unsaid. The back story of the relationship is so cute that your heart will just melt. This has to be one of my favourite relationships as it wasn't cheesy or over the top. It was adorable!!! I usually hate the endings of books but this was just right and Miles' letter was perfect.
I'm truly surprised that this book and the author are not receiving more recognition as they are both great. Kim's writing is so beautifully honest in capturing feelings that you are actually able to identify with what the characters are feeling throughout the whole book. I cannot recommend this book enough to all you contemporary lovers.
I hand on heart loved this book! The characters were so believable that I fell in love with them instantly and the ones that the author wanted us to dislike, I heavily disliked. It may sound odd to say that I was invested in the characters with this being a standalone but I seriously was!!! I was so frustrated when Charlotte and Miles in particular were mistreated and elated when they had a bit of luck. Charlotte and Miles were just such nice characters and were clearly innocently stumbling into their first year of high school and the author does a great job of capturing the excitement and terror of this experience.
The dynamics in the characters' relationships were so interesting such as between Charlotte and Miles as well as Charlotte and her sister Alexa. The author actually showed what good friends Miles and Charlotte are in the many moments of them just hanging out which is sometimes missed in books. I love Miles so much because he's just the sweetest, most understanding and loyal friend anyone could wish for and it breaks my heart when he is constantly let down. And can I just say how amazing Miles' mum is, she's literally the best!!!
Charlotte is such an honest character that I'm sure anyone who has been a teenage girl can relate to her in some way. She's trying so hard to love herself and convince herself that anyone would be interested in her, as well as dealing with harsh comments from her sister and people at school. She's simply trying to find her feet and is endlessly lovely to everyone around her but she can't catch a break. Charlotte's best friend, Lani, was such a hilarious character but I have to admit I did find her overbearing at first but grew to love every bit of her eccentric being and would love her in my corner the way she protects Charlotte so fiercely.
The main romance in the book is definitely not insta-love and it's so nice to see how the relationship blossomed over time and how many times things were left unsaid. The back story of the relationship is so cute that your heart will just melt. This has to be one of my favourite relationships as it wasn't cheesy or over the top. It was adorable!!! I usually hate the endings of books but this was just right and Miles' letter was perfect.
I'm truly surprised that this book and the author are not receiving more recognition as they are both great. Kim's writing is so beautifully honest in capturing feelings that you are actually able to identify with what the characters are feeling throughout the whole book. I cannot recommend this book enough to all you contemporary lovers.
5/5I hand on heart loved this book! The characters were so believable that I fell in love with them instantly and the ones that the author wanted us to dislike, I heavily disliked. It may sound odd to say that I was invested in the characters with this being a standalone but I seriously was!!! I was so frustrated when Charlotte and Miles in particular were mistreated and elated when they had a bit of luck. Charlotte and Miles were just such nice characters and were clearly innocently stumbling into their first year of high school and the author does a great job of capturing the excitement and terror of this experience.
The dynamics in the characters' relationships were so interesting such as between Charlotte and Miles as well as Charlotte and her sister Alexa. The author actually showed what good friends Miles and Charlotte are in the many moments of them just hanging out which is sometimes missed in books. I love Miles so much because he's just the sweetest, most understanding and loyal friend anyone could wish for and it breaks my heart when he is constantly let down. And can I just say how amazing Miles' mum is, she's literally the best!!!
Charlotte is such an honest character that I'm sure anyone who has been a teenage girl can relate to her in some way. She's trying so hard to love herself and convince herself that anyone would be interested in her, as well as dealing with harsh comments from her sister and people at school. She's simply trying to find her feet and is endlessly lovely to everyone around her but she can't catch a break. Charlotte's best friend, Lani, was such a hilarious character but I have to admit I did find her overbearing at first but grew to love every bit of her eccentric being and would love her in my corner the way she protects Charlotte so fiercely.
The main romance in the book is definitely not insta-love and it's so nice to see how the relationship blossomed over time and how many times things were left unsaid. The back story of the relationship is so cute that your heart will just melt. This has to be one of my favourite relationships as it wasn't cheesy or over the top. It was adorable!!! I usually hate the endings of books but this was just right and Miles' letter was perfect.
I'm truly surprised that this book and the author are not receiving more recognition as they are both great. Kim's writing is so beautifully honest in capturing feelings that you are actually able to identify with what the characters are feeling throughout the whole book. I cannot recommend this book enough to all you contemporary lovers.
December 18, 2015
A lovely story about friendship, finding yourself, confidence and first love, this title from Kim Lehman manages to present a story that feels real, possible and hopeful.
Charlotte is a freshman in high school, a bit of a romantic dreamer, with an annoying and not so likable sister. A bit on the chunky side, Charlotte deals with schoolmates unkind remarks daily: not quite in the popular crowd, she’s a bit reserved. What hit me harder, for Charlotte, was her family’s dismissive and often demeaning attitude toward her, calling her fat and being “embarrassed” to be seen with her. I couldn’t quite find Charlote’s rather casual attitude to the hurtful words as real, she almost seems to ignore them, but little clues are dropped that she does have some issues with the namecalling. What does shine through, however, is her solid sense of self, even for one so young.
Told in dual naratives, we meet Miles: he and Charlotte have been frends for ages, and he really is a wonderful kid. But, he has more of a crush on Charlotte, and is just too scared to tell her.
These two are adorable together, as they navigate their own issues and learn to decipher real friendship and feeling from their dreams and the ‘friends’ with bad intentions.
I enjoy Lehman’s ability to keep her characters real and honest, and add in a bit of mystery to solve: her stories have romance, but are not solely about those romances but more about navigating relationships and choices that teens and tweens encounter regularly. This particular story is perfect for middle through high school students, as it navigates social and romantic situations with a sense of hopeful optimism, never going overly dark or too laden with content that would be inappropriate.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Charlotte is a freshman in high school, a bit of a romantic dreamer, with an annoying and not so likable sister. A bit on the chunky side, Charlotte deals with schoolmates unkind remarks daily: not quite in the popular crowd, she’s a bit reserved. What hit me harder, for Charlotte, was her family’s dismissive and often demeaning attitude toward her, calling her fat and being “embarrassed” to be seen with her. I couldn’t quite find Charlote’s rather casual attitude to the hurtful words as real, she almost seems to ignore them, but little clues are dropped that she does have some issues with the namecalling. What does shine through, however, is her solid sense of self, even for one so young.
Told in dual naratives, we meet Miles: he and Charlotte have been frends for ages, and he really is a wonderful kid. But, he has more of a crush on Charlotte, and is just too scared to tell her.
These two are adorable together, as they navigate their own issues and learn to decipher real friendship and feeling from their dreams and the ‘friends’ with bad intentions.
I enjoy Lehman’s ability to keep her characters real and honest, and add in a bit of mystery to solve: her stories have romance, but are not solely about those romances but more about navigating relationships and choices that teens and tweens encounter regularly. This particular story is perfect for middle through high school students, as it navigates social and romantic situations with a sense of hopeful optimism, never going overly dark or too laden with content that would be inappropriate.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
May 30, 2015
Charlotte is bullied. She takes it well considering even her own family members get their digs in. While I don’t think I have a great idea of how big she was, Charlotte was, at one point, described as a ten — size ten. It’s hard to imagine her as the target of bullying for her weight.
Charlotte does have two close friends — Lani and Miles. Miles has had a crush on Charlotte since the third grade, the same year that Charlotte swore off boys after having her heart broken for the first time.
As the trio starts high school, Charlotte starts to change — for a boy in her algebra class. A cute boy. A boy that the mean girl is interested in even though he gives Charlotte much more attention.
Lani realizes that Miles has a thing for Charlotte and starts a countdown clock, fearing that he’ll miss his chance if he doesn’t act soon. He tells Charlotte or Lani will.
And adorable story where the bullied learn how to create their own small victories. Kids start to learn how to deal with disappointments (including figuring out that their adult heroes aren’t always so great). Friends question whether or not it’s worth risking a friendship over a relationship.
* Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost in order to review it. I offered no guarantee of a positive review, though I only request books I think I'll like because why read a book you think you’ll hate?
Charlotte does have two close friends — Lani and Miles. Miles has had a crush on Charlotte since the third grade, the same year that Charlotte swore off boys after having her heart broken for the first time.
As the trio starts high school, Charlotte starts to change — for a boy in her algebra class. A cute boy. A boy that the mean girl is interested in even though he gives Charlotte much more attention.
Lani realizes that Miles has a thing for Charlotte and starts a countdown clock, fearing that he’ll miss his chance if he doesn’t act soon. He tells Charlotte or Lani will.
And adorable story where the bullied learn how to create their own small victories. Kids start to learn how to deal with disappointments (including figuring out that their adult heroes aren’t always so great). Friends question whether or not it’s worth risking a friendship over a relationship.
* Disclaimer: I received this book at no cost in order to review it. I offered no guarantee of a positive review, though I only request books I think I'll like because why read a book you think you’ll hate?
March 14, 2015
This story was so cute. Kim Lehman’s writing and the plot line reminds me of something Sarah Dessen would write. It was a typical angsty teen girl story with a cute romance tossed in. It is just one of those books you can’t help loving. Charlotte was a great lead character and her internal voice reminded me so much of myself in high school. I really enjoyed reading this book and got through it pretty quickly.
I also liked that this book is written in two voices. One of Charlotte and the other of her best guy friend Miles. While Charlotte is a socially awkward funny girl, Miles is much more quiet and reserved. Their two personalities blended nicely and gave me a look into more storyline. I really liked their other friend Lani too. I would totally read a spinoff of Lani and here life as a sister of quadruplets.
All in all, this was a pretty cute high school story that I would recommend to anyone who is a fan of the genre. I subtracted half a squee since I feel like there could have been a little more depth in the story, but it was still a decent read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through Netgalley.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I also liked that this book is written in two voices. One of Charlotte and the other of her best guy friend Miles. While Charlotte is a socially awkward funny girl, Miles is much more quiet and reserved. Their two personalities blended nicely and gave me a look into more storyline. I really liked their other friend Lani too. I would totally read a spinoff of Lani and here life as a sister of quadruplets.
All in all, this was a pretty cute high school story that I would recommend to anyone who is a fan of the genre. I subtracted half a squee since I feel like there could have been a little more depth in the story, but it was still a decent read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through Netgalley.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
March 10, 2015
I received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
Charlotte Hubbard a sweet curvy girl a little overweight with people always telling her she to fat. Even her sister is embarrassed by her.
Then we have Miles Fiester her best friend who has been in love with her for years but he’s to shy to tell her.
This book is about growing up, friendship, family and finding your spot in this world and off course falling in love.
I loved Charlotte and Miles they are very believable characters.
I read the authors second book first and loved it, I liked this one a lot to but I see some similarities within the characters and their lives so it felt like I read the same great book twice.
I like the writing style, the characters and the love building. I can’t wait to read more from this author, keep them coming.
Charlotte Hubbard a sweet curvy girl a little overweight with people always telling her she to fat. Even her sister is embarrassed by her.
Then we have Miles Fiester her best friend who has been in love with her for years but he’s to shy to tell her.
This book is about growing up, friendship, family and finding your spot in this world and off course falling in love.
I loved Charlotte and Miles they are very believable characters.
I read the authors second book first and loved it, I liked this one a lot to but I see some similarities within the characters and their lives so it felt like I read the same great book twice.
I like the writing style, the characters and the love building. I can’t wait to read more from this author, keep them coming.
December 9, 2014
From the very first page, high school freshman Charlotte's wish for love is an experience shared by everybody at some point in those confusing, oft-changing, formative years.
Ms. Lehman has perfectly captured the atmosphere of adolescence. The writing and story brought back my own memories of summer days at the pool with friends and sitting tongue-tied next to that cute boy in class. From her 2 best friends, the mean girl nemesis, and, most especially, to the relationship with her older, prettier, more popular sister, Charlotte's experiences, feelings, and actions are human, real, and believable. Rather than saying, "Yeah, right", the reader is filled with "Yup, been there" moments, and it's those realistic moments that makes First, Last, and Always such a wonderful read.
Ms. Lehman has perfectly captured the atmosphere of adolescence. The writing and story brought back my own memories of summer days at the pool with friends and sitting tongue-tied next to that cute boy in class. From her 2 best friends, the mean girl nemesis, and, most especially, to the relationship with her older, prettier, more popular sister, Charlotte's experiences, feelings, and actions are human, real, and believable. Rather than saying, "Yeah, right", the reader is filled with "Yup, been there" moments, and it's those realistic moments that makes First, Last, and Always such a wonderful read.
March 6, 2015
I received a free copy of this book via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I struggled a little with this book at the start, I could not work out where it was going and it felt a little bland to me. But as I got into it I fell in love. I fell in love the characters, especially Miles, he was so sweet and obviously cared deeply for his friends.
I am not really that big on romance but I enjoyed this one. It helped that there was other stuff to keep me interested. I loved that the story was told from both Charlotte and Miles' point of view.
I was worried about what was going on with Charlotte's sister, I guessed completely wrong.
I found the story fun, believable and exciting. I would read more from this author and recommend this to anyone who likes YA books.
4 out of 5 stars
I struggled a little with this book at the start, I could not work out where it was going and it felt a little bland to me. But as I got into it I fell in love. I fell in love the characters, especially Miles, he was so sweet and obviously cared deeply for his friends.
I am not really that big on romance but I enjoyed this one. It helped that there was other stuff to keep me interested. I loved that the story was told from both Charlotte and Miles' point of view.
I was worried about what was going on with Charlotte's sister, I guessed completely wrong.
I found the story fun, believable and exciting. I would read more from this author and recommend this to anyone who likes YA books.
4 out of 5 stars
June 18, 2015
To be honest, I am quite disappointed by this novel.
When I first read the blurb I was so excited, it was gushing with things that I love and after reading all those positive reviews, I expected myself to love this.
My overall reaction to this novel is like the gif below and I realised that didn't really care for any of the characters or the plot.
This book had masses of potential but it failed to draw me in and become part of the story. I'm sorry.
When I first read the blurb I was so excited, it was gushing with things that I love and after reading all those positive reviews, I expected myself to love this.
My overall reaction to this novel is like the gif below and I realised that didn't really care for any of the characters or the plot.
This book had masses of potential but it failed to draw me in and become part of the story. I'm sorry.
July 22, 2015
This is the second book by Kim Lehman, this book is taking a lot out of life. You fall in love or you like someone and you are heartbroken when you're faced with they may not like you back. Charlotte is not my favorite character but I love the two sides of the coin with her best friend miles. Kim Lehman is amazing at flashing out her characters. The real feeling are throw this book. Miles letter will be added to my mind. Please pick up First, Last and always, I'm sure you will love this book.
January 19, 2015
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
I loved this book. The author wrote a beautiful love story with just the right mix of teenage angst, plus a dash of mystery. I thought for sure I figured out what was going to happen and I was pleasantly surprised. I would highly recommend this book.
I loved this book. The author wrote a beautiful love story with just the right mix of teenage angst, plus a dash of mystery. I thought for sure I figured out what was going to happen and I was pleasantly surprised. I would highly recommend this book.
March 13, 2015
This was a sweet book. The back and forth chapters between Miles and Charlotte keep the story moving at a quick pace and keep the reader vested in both characters. This is a light, affirming book appropriate for middle school readers as well as high school since it is clean and sweet. This is the second book I’ve read by the author, and I’ve loved them both. You won’t be disappointed.
April 4, 2015
Charlotte, her two best friends are off to a sweet adventure of their first day of high school, which is full of emotions, teen presssures, bullying, and first everything. This was a quick YA romance read with a few funny quirks along the way.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2015
I really enjoyed the story. It started slow but that wasn't for long. This is a YA story. I share them with nieces and children of friends of mine. Both girls who read the book enjoyed the story and they said they could "see" the characters.
September 3, 2015
4.5 stars
I was do lucky to win a signed copy of this incredibly sweet book.
oh how it angered me at times (mean girl Vanessa)
and made me happy and full of smiles.
I love writing . I loved the characters ...heck I loved this book!
I was do lucky to win a signed copy of this incredibly sweet book.
oh how it angered me at times (mean girl Vanessa)
and made me happy and full of smiles.
I love writing . I loved the characters ...heck I loved this book!
January 8, 2015
Omg cutest story ever!! I loved how it transitioned from Charlotte to Miles!!! I wanted to shake some sense into Charlotte... I was so sad for her aunt... A must read!!
January 7, 2015
Really cute story! Very relatable for teens. Readers will fall in love with Lehman's characters.
January 11, 2015
Amazing
This book was beautiful and always left me wanting more and more. The characters were well thought of and funny. I really do love this book.
This book was beautiful and always left me wanting more and more. The characters were well thought of and funny. I really do love this book.
March 24, 2015
- Any book that writes from two different points of view already get bonus points. This book was amazing.
- From the beginning to the end, you were rooting for the happy ever after.
- From the beginning to the end, you were rooting for the happy ever after.
June 20, 2015
Full review to come
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews