First Light

by Jerry Farnham

Every legacy has a beginning.

What happens when the wholesome roots of a coastal Maine family collide with the high-gloss world of Hollywood? First Light is the origin story of the Red at Night series, taking readers back to the very foundation of the Finn and Andrews families.

Trace the journey of Jack Finn and Melissa Andrews long before they met-starting with the fateful stories of how their parents fell in love and the childhood experiences that forged their adult lives. From heartwarming family traditions to the comical happenstance that finally brings two vastly different worlds together, this prequel offers a rich, layered look at the characters you love. Whether you are meeting them for the first time or looking to uncover the secrets behind their development, First Light is a charming, must-read blend of tragedy, comedy, and suspense.

254 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 8, 2025

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Light is a deeply reflective and emotionally stirring novel that captures the quiet strength of human resilience and renewal. Jerry Farnham writes with precision and grace, weaving together moments of heartbreak, hope, and rediscovery in a way that feels both timeless and immediate.

What makes First Light unforgettable is its sense of emotional honesty the way it traces life’turning points with sensitivity and realism. Farnham’s prose glows with warmth, and his characters linger in your mind long after the final page. Every scene feels intimate, yet universal, speaking to anyone who’s ever faced loss, transition, or the fragile beauty of starting over.

This is the kind of novel that rewards thoughtful readers layered, lyrical, and full of quiet revelations. I’ve shared this review on Goodreads because First Light deserves to be discovered by more readers who value introspective, heartfelt storytelling that reflects the light within human experience.

[Strabor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the previous two books in the series and enjoyed them immensely. I expected this book to follow the same formula. However, First Light is more sophisticated. It delves into character and reveals life events that shape people. Give yourself time to get into the book. There are some ‘zingers’ and ‘I didn’t see that coming’ along with ‘Ah, so that’s why’. Farnham is maturing as a writer. A must read for Red at Night fans.

[Gretchen Armstead · Rating 4 out of 5]

First Light is my favorite of the series. I enjoyed reading the backstories of the characters, and learning how their lives developed over the years.