Jaclyn’s Review: The First Word by Isley Robson

The First Word
written by Isley Robson
published by Montlake Romance, 2017

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Did I enjoy this book: I really liked this book! I thought this was sensitive subject matter since the whole story is about interacting with a child who has autism. I was concerned that the child would be portrayed in a negative or inaccurate light. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the author handled the subject matter perfectly.  The story is told from the point of view of an emotionally scarred social worker who is hired to work privately with an autistic child of a wealthy man. There is a backstory that unfolds slowly–painfully slowly. Just when I would think that I couldn’t stomach another vague reference to a past issue, the author finally started to reveal the story. The overall plot was interesting and handled well.

 

Would I recommend it: Yes, this was interesting enough that I would recommend this one. This is definitely for a more mature crowd. There were some spicy scenes, but the real motivation for my age recommendation is the general plot. So much of this book revolves around a parent’s interaction with a child–I think it would be difficult for a younger reader to understand this.

 

 

About the book – from Goodreads: To stay sane, Andie Tilly must keep her mind on her work. Her job as a pediatric occupational therapist is the perfect distraction from the unspeakable tragedy she experienced as a child. But when she meets alternative-energy magnate Rhys Griffiths and his autistic toddler, Will, she quickly realizes her heart will never be the same. Especially when her name becomes Will’s first word.

After accepting a position as a live-in therapist for Will, Andie steels herself against the appeal of the disconcertingly attractive—and attracted—Rhys. But their chemistry can no longer be denied, and their heated affair seems destined for happily ever after. A destiny Andie’s terrified to embrace.

When Andie’s guilt, Rhys’s awkwardness, and the abrupt appearance of an erratic ex threaten to dismantle their delicately blooming relationship, they must decide if love is worth the challenge. Can Andie and Rhys find their way back to each other? Or will the demons of the past simply prove too strong?