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Fate #0.5

First Came You

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First comes a nickel,
Then comes a shove,
Then comes loss only conquered by his love.

This is the story of my first true love. The story of how the boy next door protected me, became my best friend, stole my heart, and rescued me from my darkest despair.

Unknown Binding

First published May 3, 2015

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429 people want to read

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Faith Andrews

22 books1,088 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Michelle.
2,103 reviews1,416 followers
April 19, 2015
ARC provided by author in exchange of honest review

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#1FirstCaleLove

First Came You by Faith Andrews was the first book that I have read from this author. This book chronicles the tale of first love and the emotional journey of two best friends who turned into lovers. It's a book filled with emotions and heart as Tommy and Gabriella's relationship survives the turmoils and odds that are stacked against them. So if you are looking for a quick read that has you immense into Tommy and Gabriella's life, then go read this novella but I will say that I'm a little scared to read Feel Again because I don't want to say goodbye to one vital character.


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Profile Image for Amy .
3,129 reviews
November 26, 2015
First Came You is a beautiful story of firsts. First Came You follows the story of Tommy and Gabriella. From the moment Gabriella met Tommy, the two of them were destined to be together. Best friends from a young age, their bond only grew as the two of them get older. I loved watching how Tommy and Gabriella’ s relationship grew and changed over the years. Their journey is an emotional one that isn’t always filled with happy moments. A life changing even will throw their relationship off course and will test the strength of their love.

First Came You is a quick and easy read for me. I fell in love with the characters and their story. It is an amazing story of first love and how powerful that love can be. How you will never forget it. How that love will always be a part of you.

*I received an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Jennifer.
491 reviews16 followers
April 25, 2015
I loved this story.

Whether you have read Feel Again or not it does not matter. You need to read Tommy and Gabby's story. It a such a beautiful love story and one that everyone should experience. It will just warm your heart. Amazing job Faith Andrews!!

Full review coming on release date.
Profile Image for Megan ~The Never Ending Book Basket.
2,373 reviews93 followers
April 30, 2015
Even before I started this novella, I knew that I was going to be in for one gloriously emotional story that would probably make me cry, feel a lot, and just experience everything this story had. First Came You made me do all of that and more, and I couldn’t be more happy about getting all of that. It was nothing short of breathtakingly beautiful to experience. Even the tears and heart squeezes this story gave me were oh so worth it because of what they let me experience with these characters.

I’m not going to lie that there was a very small part of me that was a tad apprehensive about reading this story because I knew where it would eventually lead, as I read and LOVED every single phenomenal word of Feel Again, the book that this novella prequels.

Though I did know where Tommy and Gabriella’s story would eventually take them both, First Came You offers the extraordinary opportunity to see where it all began with them. You get the beginning where their magic started. Where their pathways crossed and began weaving together, and where this unforgettable story with these exceptional characters began.

That beginning is wondrous, phenomenally emotional, and life changing in every way.

I loved, and I mean loved every single piece of this novella. Faith Andrews is one of my favorite authors for a reason. Not only does her writing allow you to slip right into the magnificent world that she creates in her books, the way she writes and develops her stories and characters allows you the exceptional chance to feel what you’re reading. You’re not just going to read this story, you’re going to feel it with every ounce of everything you’ve got, and that just pulls you and connects you into everything.

It brings it to life. It makes you feel and think and experience everything right along with Gabriella and Tommy. You feel their joy, their wonder, their longing, and their butterflies. You experience the heartbreaking moments, you cry for them, and you break for them. You also get the incredible opportunity to get them. To understand them, and to love and care for their characters with all that you’ve got. That is everything, and it’s a huge part of why I loved every word of this story.

What Faith Andrews gives you in a story allows you the chance to connect to wholly unique and endearing characters while becoming fully enraptured in their world and enthralling story. First Came You was no different, and just reiterated why I love this author’s books so much.

One of my favorite things about this story was getting to know Tommy and Gabriella better. This novella allows you the amazing chance to see them at so many different points in their lives and relationship. You see them grow and develop and change. You get to see how their feelings for one another evolve and deepen, and that just amplifies everything that you’re reading. It also invests you more and more in the both of them. You will truly feel how deeply these two feel and care for one another. When you meet them and read their story in First Came You, you will just want more of them, more of their magic, and more of the thoughtfully crafted feelings and emotions that come with them.

Gabriella’s character was simply wonderful. She was real and so easy to relate to, and I loved getting to know about how her character came to be who she was in the past and present. Reading about this part of her life was just phenomenal, and I have to say that it connects so well into the story that comes after this one. Gabriella goes through so much in this novella, and experiencing that with her hurt my heart at times, but then at other moments, especially those with Tommy, it made my heart melt right along with hers. Gabriella is such an endearing character that you will emotionally connect to the instant you begin this story. You will love and care and feel for her immensely throughout every page of this story and the next. (This goes without saying, but you must read the next one!! You simply must read Feel Again!!)

Now Tommy’s character pretty much stole my heart from the moment I met him. I shouldn’t be surprised at that though because Faith Andrews knows how to create a male character I practically want to marry the instant I get to know them. Tommy was no different. He was just an all-around good guy with a heart of gold that shined brightly and seamlessly throughout this story. I was just enamored by his character, and I loved getting to know him even though it was immensely bittersweet. My heart broke for him at times in this story, but through all the ups and downs this story threw at him and Gabriella, my heart mainly just went to him and all that he was doing for her. He fought for like crazy for her, he believed in her and in them, and he never stopped pushing for everything he knew they wanted and deserved.

This novella gives you the incredible chance to get to know his character and to realize why he is so important to Gabriella and to the story itself, while also giving you the beautiful foundation to these characters and their stories and their lives. It also just gives you the chance to love Tommy’s character, and even in the moments when my heart almost hurt because of how much I loved his character, it was all worth it because he was so worth it, and Gabriella and Tommy together were so brilliantly worth it.

First Came You is a novella that gives you so much. So much thoughtfully crafted emotion and feeling that you’ll feel deep in your heart. So much love and connection that will grow and grow the more you read. So much of everything that makes a story simply wonderful. This novella gives you it all, and when you reach its end, you will just want to keep feeling and experiencing all of its amazingness.

Faith Andrews gives you one heck of a story with Gabriella and Tommy. It’s breathtaking and beautiful and emotional as all get out, and that is just a fraction of what makes it utterly outstanding. The writing, characters, and story itself will just enrapture you within it all, and in the end you will be thrilled with every wondrous thing it gave you.

First Came You gives you Tommy and Gabriella’s emotionally beautiful journey together. It’s a story that will have you feeling and thinking and experiencing many things, but most of all, it’ll have you believing whole heartedly in the power and beauty of all consuming, deep in your heart, love. And there’s nothing more perfect or wonderful than experiencing and believing in that. Trust me.
Profile Image for Tina.
612 reviews18 followers
May 5, 2015
Do you ever wonder how to write a well written novella? Well, Faith Andrews’ First Came You is a prime of example of what you SHOULD do. This short story is a very powerful and well written novella. It has everything you want for a good read and packs a punch in such a small amount of words! This is actually the first thing by Faith I have ever read… *hangs head in shame* I know that is insane since she is one of my favorite Indie Authors- she is fun to socialize with and shoot the breeze with on social media but for whatever some reason, even though I own her books, I have not had the time to sit down and read. Needless to say, that will be remedied ASAP! I cannot believe what I have been missing. This lady can write!!

First Came You is a beautiful story of one of the most beautiful and sacred kinds of love: a love that is so rare and beautiful- one that grows from childhood friends to hero worship to head over heels forever. It is deep in a sense that the other person knows every crevice of your soul. That is the connection we have the pleasure of reading as we watch Tommy and Gabriella grow up together. These two are meant to be together and there is never a moment of doubt in that thought despite their situations and harsh realities.

This book is brimming with emotion. The thing that blows my mind is that Faith can take so many heavy and harsh realities of life, some that other writers tend to struggle with, and bring it into the story in perfect balance. The things that happen and the time that passes could overwhelm the reader and the story, but instead the pace is perfect and the emotion is authentic. You feel Gabriella and Tommy’s pain through the ups and downs of life, something that tugs on the reader’s heartstrings, yet you never feel like you are overwhelmed with too much.

This novella is fantastic. It has meat on the bones, and emotions that will speak to your heart. This love story is stunning in its beauty, hardship, and authenticity. Watching these two grow up and fall in love was wonderful and a story that I will read again and again!
Profile Image for Gia Riley.
Author 22 books822 followers
June 11, 2015
I just devoured this story. I actually read Feel Again first before finding out Faith was releasing this novella. I am SO glad she did. I really liked Gabriella, but now that I know her back story, I love her. And Tommy....sigh. Everyone in this world deserves a Tommy. His fierce love, his dedication, his love - all so powerful and memorable. I'll be thinking about their connection for a very long time.

The writing flowed effortlessly from the moment Gabriella meets Tommy until the very end. I was drawn in by a simple game of hopscotch - only it wasn't simple at all. One childhood game would shape and mold these two amazing people for the rest of their lives.

I laughed, I cried, and I smiled - a lot! Most importantly, I felt. I felt the vivid descriptions being described without having to analyze or over-think the situation. It simply WAS. And man was it ever!

FIVE nickels for all the feels!
Profile Image for Jaime Fiction Fangirls.
1,664 reviews153 followers
May 5, 2015
This story was so beautiful. I love a good life-long/friends to lover romance and this one was one of the special ones. It's a quick, easy read but it still brings all the feels.

I am head-over-heels in love with Tommy. He's everything a teenage girl dreams of and grows into the man who every woman wants. His patience and persistence when it comes to Gabriella was the sweetest. There was never a doubt about how much he loves her. I only wish we could have had more time with Gabriella and Tommy. I'm greedy like that.

This story is heartbreaking, up-lifting and sweet and might just push Man of My Dreams as my fav Faith Andrews book.

*I received an ARC from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for ItaPixie.
1,277 reviews149 followers
April 6, 2016

I really liked this book.

First Came You tells Gabby and Tommy's journey towards their Happily Ever After.They met when they are just two kids but their special love survives year after year also when they have to deal with some difficulties that life throws at them.

Faith Andrews delivered such a sweet and heartbreaking story.

While reading it I've had so many different emotions...I'm hooked and can't wait to start the next book in the series.

Profile Image for Jennifer Marie.
191 reviews
May 5, 2015
First Came You by Faith Andrews

Review by Jen (BestSellers & BestStellars)

First Came You was amazing! I have read every single book that Faith Andrews has written and loved all of them, but I think that First Came You is one of my favorites. I read Feel Again which is book one in this series and it was fantastic. When I found out that Faith was writing this, I was super excited and so anxious to read it. Like with all of her books, Faith doesn’t disappoint. She has the ability to make you feel everything and I love that about her books. This was no exception. It was a beautiful, emotional best friends to lovers story. I loved that we were able to see the beginning of Gabriella and Tommy’s relationship, starting when they were kids. You will definitely feel reading this book. I felt like I was right there with these characters. I laughed, I cried, and I felt like my heart cracked open from the heartbreak in this story. You really get to connect with the characters in this book. I loved every minute of this book. Faith Andrews has done it again!

I loved Gabriella! She’s sweet, caring, and funny. She’s a very down to earth character and I found her to be extremely relatable. She first meets Tommy when he comes to rescue her from the kids that are bullying her. From that moment on, they were inseparable and became best friends. Once they’re older, Gabby and Tommy become a couple, the only problem is Gabby has very strict parents, so they hide their relationship until they feel it’s the right time to tell them. Later on, Gabby suffers an incredible loss, one that changes her.

“I want to let him comfort me. I want his touch and his love to be enough to heal my hurt, but right now it’s just not. He doesn’t understand this. I can’t put a wedge between me and Tommy because I don’t know how to let him be there for me. He’ll have to be patient. I know he will be. It’s me I’m worried about because right now I don’t know which way is up or down and the uncertainty of it all makes me dizzy with fear.”

Gabby loves him, but she pushes Tommy away because she is grieving and doesn’t know how to handle it. Between Tommy and her sister, Gina, Gabby feels like everyone is smothering her and she needs space.

“I can’t do this right now. I’m sorry, but I don’t know how to love you the way I want to. The way you deserve. I’m broken and even though you’re trying with all your might and your love and your selflessness to fix me, I can’t put that burden on you. I need to get right before I can promise you anything. I need to be alone.”

Then we have Tommy. He’s sweet, funny, and Gabby’s best friend and protector. I loved Tommy from the very first moment. From the minute he met Gabby, Tommy knew she was special. He made sure to always protect her and be there for her, but deep down, it was more than that for him.

“Gabby, I’ve liked you as more than a friend for a while now. I didn’t know how to tell you because I didn’t want you to think it was weird. We’ve known each other forever and what we have- I couldn’t live without you.”

After Gabby suffers a tragic loss, Tommy wants to be there for her more than ever. There’s only one problem- Gabby is pushing him away. Tommy understands it, but it doesn’t hurt any less that she doesn’t want him around. He gives her the space she asks for, but he’s not the type to just give up.

“I will see her through this. Even if it’s from afar. As a friend. As whatever the fuck she lets me be. Either way, this is not the end of Gabriella and Tommy’s love story.”

This book was amazing! I loved that Gabby and Tommy started off as best friends and then worked their way into being more. It was such a beautiful, emotional story and I loved every minute of it.

The quality of writing was great. The story was well-written and very enjoyable to read. This was such a beautiful, emotional journey between two characters that had such an intense attraction and connection to each other. The story kept me interested and I loved every word.

5 Diamonds for this amazing story!!
Profile Image for Chia.
163 reviews
February 7, 2017
Actual rating: 3,5 stars
Recensione anche sul blog QUI

100 pagine in cui sono concentrati amore e disperazione, amicizia e crescita. Ovviamente non può essere tutto sviluppato in maniera ottimale in così poco spazio, ma devo dire che non mi è sembrato eccessivamente affrettato pur di concludere. È pur sempre un prequel che quindi deve essere un concentrato di avvenimenti.

Gabriella e Tommy diventano migliori amici all’età di otto anni (lei) e dieci (lui). Sei anni dopo si scoprono innamorati l’uno dell’altra – non vi sto spoilerando nulla, è nella trama! -. E il resto è storia. Non poteva andare tutto bene, ci deve essere la disgrazia e le lacrime a fiumi e la crescita di Gabriella. Con tutti gli errori che la disperazione e l’adolescenza insieme possono fare. Con tutta la bellezza che la crescita, la presa di coscienza e l’amore possono creare insieme.

Gabriella è una ragazzina normale, con una sorella – Gina – e una bella famiglia alle spalle. Di quelle da film, in cui si litiga quando ci sta la litigata ma altrimenti siamo a livello famiglia del Mulino Bianco. La sorella maggiore un po’ ribelle, il padre un po’ geloso delle figlie, ma tutto nella norma. Poi, la famiglia è italiana. Mamma di Napoli e papà siciliano. Mi sono spanciata a leggere le espressioni in italiano usate dai due, cliché dell’italiano secondo gli americani che letta dal nostro punto di vista fa decisamente sorridere.

Tommy ha una famiglia un po’ così, assente, che non approva le sue scelte e i suoi comportamenti nonostante le due cose più trasgressive che abbia fatto siano uscire con la vicina di casa che conosce da una vita e sostenere di voler andare a vivere per conto suo a vent’anni. Vabbè.

Dicevo Gabriella e Tommy sono l’amore. Due piccoli migliori amici che crescono praticamente come fratelli. Tommy che trova nella famiglia Rossi – cliché, dicevamo?? – un seconda famiglia, lì dove la sua manca. E ovviamente non poteva che nascere l’amore nell’istante in cui nei due ha iniziato a circolare dell’ormone.
Ma ci sta, non è stato forzato, nonostante la velocità, e tanto per cambiare io avevo i lacrimoni. Poi il disastro, ma non vi voglio anticipare nulla.

Non c’è molto altro da dire. La storia si fa cercare e apprezzare e si può leggere tranquillamente in lingua – raga, ci sono riscita anche io! – quindi non mi resta che consigliarvi questo libro. A breve, promesso, mi butterò anche sul primo libro vero e proprio della serie, Feel Again, anche se vi confesso che le sue quasi 300 pagine un po’ mi spaventano.
Profile Image for EscapeNBooks.
809 reviews
May 17, 2015
I was given this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

"You know that moment? The moment? Yeah, that one. The one where something unexpected happens that will ultimately change the entire course of your life."

Once again, Faith Andrews has written a book that entranced me. I was captured at the prologue, and there was no letting go, even when the book came to an end. I previously read Feel Again, book 1 in this series, and thought that Mrs. Andrews could not write a love story to rival that one. But, I was mistaken. This is where it all began, and where life's decisions influenced outcomes that gave Gabby her firsts.

"I wonder if he's ever looked at me the way I'm looking at him - through different eyes. Through the eyes of an admirer rather than a friend or a stand-in sibling."

We initially fall in love with Tommy Edwards and Gabriella Rossi at a very young age. Adolescent circumstances puah them inexplicably together and chart the course for their future. Who needs Superman when there is Tommy? And where would he be without the Lois Lane that needs saving? We are whisked away into their sweet and flirty love story that seems to be destined for only one thing. However, we know with love beginning at such a early point that life will have many lessons to share along the way.

"This is life. This is what makes me believe in fate."

First Came You was a fabulous introduction to the Fate Series. A riveting and beautiful story told mostly from Gabby's point-of-view, the writing throughout the story was appropriate for every age of the characters, and caused me to easily identify with them. There were points in the story that I laughed so hard my stomach hurt. Then, moments occurred when the stream of tears would not stop flowing, and a box of tissues became my best friend. If it was possible to read a book that caused me to emptied out and experience such a variety of emotions in such a short period that I could be left needing an emotional refill, First Came You was that book. In the midst of reading one of the most poignant parts of the story, I was reminded of my favorite poem, "The Road Less Traveled", by Robert Frost. The paths that our characters chose to take shaped each and every moment written in the pages, and led to an ending that made my heart happy.

"Is it possible for your heart to smile with memories? I think so, because that has to be what mine is doing right now."
Profile Image for Shannon.
2,752 reviews224 followers
May 6, 2015

"Plans that mean I want to take care of you until we're old and gray, until the day I die."

I just can't even...
I don't even know where to begin. I need a hug.
Or bread. "Bread. It'll soak up my nerves."
But will it soak up my emotions?!?

If you've read Feel Again you know you're in for an emotionally bittersweet tale and Faith did not disappoint...what a rollercoaster ride of emotions this little novella took me on. I don't know if I was so affected because I have read Feel Again, or if I would have felt the same without having read it. I'm going with the latter because this beautifully written story packed quite a punch.

Tommy and Gabby meet as children, when he steps in and defends her from the neighborhood bullies, because at 10 he is ”A real boy.” and that’s what real boys do. From that moment on they are inseparable- best friends, confidants, always there for each other. As they grow so do their feelings for each other, until one day Tommy finally declares he feels more for Gabby than just brotherly love…”I don’t want to mess anything up, and I don’t want to weird you out, but I think I have feelings for you Gabby. And not the brother-sister kind we always pretend were there.” And that’s where it all begins…

I loved seeing Gabby grow from a spunky 8yo, ”It’s hot, I’m tired, and gosh darn it, I want my way for once!”; to a sassy teen, ”I’m not in training to be a nun, and you only live once.”; to a young woman who, after going through a horrible tragedy, has finally come through the other side and realized everything she has ever wanted and needed was always right there by her side. "It's always been you. My first everything." And Tommy, sweet sweet Tommy, never giving up on his Gabby, ”You left me over a year ago, but I never left you, Gabriella.”

Friendship, love, loss, we get all that and more in First Came You. Some books grab you buy the heart and squeeze, just squeeze, squeeze, squeeze. That’s what this one did to me, and I don’t think I want to recover from it. I'm not sure I can.

”Mine,” Tommy whispers. “You were always mine, but now you’ll be mine forever.”
“I am his, he is mine, and together everything is right.”

Profile Image for Jennifer.
315 reviews
May 13, 2015
*Review copy received from the author for an honest review*

5 “my hero” stars!

Oh how I loved reading Tommy and Gabby’s story!!! I read Feel Again a while back and had a hard time connecting with Gabby, but in First Came You, I totally fell in love with Tommy and Gabby. And I think there was so much more emotion added to it since I already knew how things worked out for them.

“Life as Tommy’s girl—whether public knowledge or not—is the only kind of life I want.”

Tommy truly is a dream come true. He was perfect!!! Really…there was not a moment in this novella where I didn’t like him or was irked by him. He was almost too good to be true. I just knew he had to slip up at some point, but NOPE!! He’s still prefect!! ;) And Gabby…now I have a better understanding of why she is how she is in Feel Again. She has not had an easy life.

“No matter what happens, you’ll always be my hopscotch saving, bully fighting, dance escorting hero and I love you for that more than you’ll ever know.”

I am so happy that I had the chance to read this novella and add more detail to Gabby’s life. First Came You gave me just the right amount of detail and emotion to hurt for and be happy for Gabby, yet didn’t drag their story on and on. And I feel like reading this novella is a must for anyone who has already read Feel Again. Readers need to see how powerful Tommy and Gabby’s love was. This novella is another example of why I love this author’s writing :)Happy Reading!!
134 reviews9 followers
April 7, 2015

"Life won't be perfect,......... but I'll try my hardest to make you believe it is.” What more can you ask for, when a man is willing and putting everything he has to make your life perfect?!
What a great, emotional love story!! The main characters Gabby and Tommy take us on an emotional love story, full of struggles, sadness, love, happiness, and laughter. I just fell in love. These characters are each other’s half from day one. If one is happy, sad, or broken, the other feels it.
Fate has a way to lead the path to our destiny. Sometimes we need time, and we take it.
Time to heal.
Time to grow.
Time to get where we are meant to be.
We will get there, because it is our destiny to.
Time will lead us exactly there.

This is a story about love at first sight… first love…"my first everything.“ *Sigh* Most of us can relate to this. You all know that you can NEVER FORGET your first love. They leave a permanent scar tattooed on your mind, body, heart, and soul. Whether you end up with them in the end or not….they will ALWAYS live there. Faith Andrews has left that scar and I can’t be happier!! This is one story I will NEVER FORGET! I can’t wait for more of your work Faith. The heart wants what it wants and I want more of your fabulous work!!!
Profile Image for Tiffany Readz.
2,020 reviews52 followers
May 12, 2015
Oh my gosh, I LOVED Feel Again by Faith Andrews and didn't realize what characters I was reading about in First Came You until I read the acknowledgements. This book was a fantastic companion to the Fate series and I almost feel that it should be read first to truly appreciate Gabby and Tommy's relationship.

Gabby and Tommy have been best friends since they were six and eight years old. Having only a sister, Tommy was Gabby's make shift older brother. Protecting her from bullies and taking her to dances when she gets stood up. A tragic event totally changes the dynamic of this cute couple sending them on quite the emotional roller coaster.

Gabby has to learn to live her life differently and the love she once felt from Tommy is now suffocating her. Needing time to herself, Gabby starts to live a little on the wild side, while Tommy sits back and waits for his girl to return. When she finally comes to her senses, things start to fall into place and they live happily ever after. Huh, I wish.

Again, I was so shocked and pleased when I realized this was Gabby's Tommy. Faith Andrews said the world was a better place with Tommy Edwards in it and I agree. This story did him justice and then some.

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Profile Image for E.L. Wicker.
Author 5 books51 followers
July 6, 2015
I can't even....I feel I need to get that book now, How to Even for dummies, because I can't even. I'm not going to spoil it but I read this book, then went straight to the next, and have I mentioned I can't even?

Back to this book for now, though. Be prepared for all the feels. One moment I'm feeling the love and happiness for these two lovers and the next - my heart is being freaking wrenched out.

Tommy & Gabby are just meant to be in every way. Best friends since ages 10 (Tommy) and 8 (Gabby), their future looked set. Other than the usual teen drama's, their fate was sealed and due to be a bright and beautiful one...until tragedy strikes.

Reeling from her loss, Gabby goes off the rails, pushing away those who love her the most. But Tommy, oh dear God how I love him, he's always there - watching, waiting.

I really don't want to give anything away, but this book grabbed me by the heartstrings and tugged - hard. The author - Faith Andrews, her writing is not only flawless but packed full of emotion. I hung on every word and now I'm going to be busy for the next few days reading every word this author has ever written. Such a beautiful and poignant book. Loved it.
Profile Image for Tiffany Johnson.
1,312 reviews36 followers
April 26, 2015
4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this sweet story about first/young love.

Some moments change your life forever. For Gabby that moment was when Tommy became her hero by stopping some neighbor kids from bullying her. From then on, they were inseparable, best friends. Friendship turns to like and love by age 16. Is it crazy to be some young but so in love? And then life almost stops for Gabby when the unthinkable happens. Grieving, she pushes Tommy away...but some things are just meant to be.

I loved the characters...ALL of them! Gabby, Tommy, Gina, Gabby's parents. All very well written. The tragedy that occurs in this book is my worst nightmare, so I had soooo many feels while reading this, just gut wrenching, literally. And then there is Tommy....God! Who doesn't want a man like Tommy?!? Patient, understanding, completely in touch with his feelings, total book boyfriend material. This is the precursor novella to Feel Again, which I have not read, but definitely will, even though it will be difficult.

Great read, I enjoy this authors writing style and character development very much! Won an ARC for an honest review.

Profile Image for Sophia.
118 reviews2 followers
April 25, 2015
ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.

Holy emotional roller coaster! I want to start off by saying this is the first book by this author I have read. And also I usually shy away from novellas because from my past experiences with them I feel they are rushed and abrupt. NOW with that being said I will go ahead and give my thoughts on this book. This book was short but not rushed. I loved seeing a bit of snippets from the past but skipping over enough to get to the heart of the story. The way the author told the story made me connect quickly with the characters and at the same time not feel rushed. This was a beautifully tragic story and although I cannot relate from personal experience Faith Andrews brought to life this story in a way that had me feeling as though I was right there with them. I do not want to give anything away about the actual story but needless to say I will be reading the next book In this series. I would recommend this book to anyone Just beware this one is emotional and it seems the next book in this series will be even more so. Excited to read the next book which is a full length novel!
461 reviews5 followers
June 29, 2015
**MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS**

Let me start out by saying this is the first book I have read by Faith Andrews. I absolutely LOVED it and feel in love with Gabby and Tommy. Faith did an excellent job of following them from the time they were little until they were all grown up and painting their journey for us, even if it is only a novella. It follows them from when they are just little kids and friends through their school years and them realizing they have feelings for each other that reach outside of the friendship parameters. It also takes us through a devastating loss for Gabby that is also a loss for Tommy, which she doesn't see, and shows us how that loss changed Gabby. Even though Tommy tried to love her through it, she kept pushing him away. Thank goodness he never gave up on her and continued to keep an eye on her. This is a very sweet, quick read, love story. My only complaint about this novella is that it ended. But now I can read Feel Again and get more Gabby (and Tommy?). Guess we'll have to see.
Profile Image for Nicole Huffman ~ Author Groupies.
290 reviews53 followers
April 16, 2015
I couldn't wait for this novella but was also dreading it because I knew the outcome and knew my heart would be breaking all over again. I loved getting Tommy and Gabby's story from the very beginning. To experience real love so young was amazing. Their love and story is so beautiful and they really were made for each other. This was a highly emotional read, sad tears and happy tears. One of the best proposal scene I've ever read, that Tommy had the swoon meter off the charts. Their story is all about fate and how life can change so easily.

I'm sitting her a blubbering mess from reading and then darn you Faith Andrews for including the prologue to Feel Agin in the back because apparently Im a glutton for punishment and decided to break my heart all over again and this time it was ten times worse after to getting to know Tommy and how amazing he was.

I absolutely LOVED this novella and am so glad it was written, even if it left me an emotional wreck. This is easily Faiths best work. Each book keeps getting better and better and I can't wait to read what she comes up with next.
Profile Image for Julie.
1,009 reviews6 followers
April 23, 2015
This is the first book I've read by Faith and I'm highly impressed and now a big fan!! I've always loved first love/young love books and this one just wowed me. It met my expectations perfectly with how Tommy and Gabriella met at a young age, became friends, dated, and married.

True emotions were brought out in this book and my heart just broke for Gabriella for everything this poor girl endured with the tragic loss of her parents. As they say 'love never fails', well that was certainly true for Tommy. When Gabriella started pushing him away, Tommy's love for her never faltered. Their love was beyond amazing and is something everyone dreams of having. By the end, I was in tears because I definitely was not expecting that ending and my heart broke all over again for Gabriella.

I think the characters were well written and I devoured this quickly in one sitting. I was hooked from the start and just couldn't put this one down. Looks like I will be diving into Feel Again, book one, in the series!
Profile Image for Michelle.
3,177 reviews35 followers
July 10, 2016
This is a friends-to-lovers novella about Gabby and her neighbor Tommy. It starts out sweet because they are young kids and Tommy is always looking out for Gabby. They become best friends and do everything together. I loved their dynamic because it was solid and there was no doubt how much they cared for one another. I loved Tommy, he's a genuine good guy with a big heart who only has eyes for Gabby. As they grow into teenagers, their biggest issue is whether they can go public with their relationship, particularly to Gabby's parents who are conservative and over protective. If only that was their biggest issue in the end, because Gabby's world is turned upside down shortly afterwards. It hurt to see Gabby lose herself and not know what to do to help herself. Even though she still has the love and support from Tommy and her sister, ultimately Gabby has to find herself, but at what cost? She has to fall first before she can get back up. Will Tommy still be there to help her pick up the pieces when she's ready?

*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Melissa.
652 reviews18 followers
May 3, 2015
A Beautiful Love Story
This is the first story that I've read by this author and I have to say I'm now a huge fan. This story is wonderfully written. It shows the story of Tommy and Gabby. They have been friends from little in up, as they grow older friendship turns to love. I was dragged into their story and was not able to put it down until the last word. This is a short read but is so fulfilling that you aren't missing out on anything. This book takes you on a roller coaster of emotions. I felt absolutely drained after reading this, but in a good way, there were smiles, and tears, and all of the things that come along with this type of relationship. Even when there comes a time when Gabby is withdrawn, Tommy's unending love never falters. When tragedy strikes will their relationship be able to stand? I can't say enough about how wonderful this book is, the writing is flawless, the plot and characters are so real you can't help but fall in love. I can't wait to read more from this author. I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Stephanie Rose.
Author 30 books2,946 followers
May 28, 2015
First love can completely shake you to your core, and true love is something you can never get over. For a select few, like Tommy and Gabby, it happens all at once.

I read Feel Again before this novella, so I knew the issues Gabriella had as an adult. In reading her story with Tommy, it explains her character perfectly. The love they had was so all consuming, it jumped off the page at you. Tommy became my hero too, the beautiful boy with the big heart, and it gutted me to see all they went through in the face of tragedy.

Faith is one of my favorite authors, and always brings you into her stories so much that you can actually feel like its happening to you - the love, the pain, the frustration. I also have a new fondness and respect for Gabriella in Feel Again, as this book brings her story full circle and you empathize so much more with her actions. I fell for Tommy too, big time, and he's pretty impossible to get over.

First Came You is a beautiful story about falling in love never giving up on the person you're meant to be with.
Profile Image for Shirin Rasheed.
2,826 reviews41 followers
April 27, 2015
I have been Lucky to get the ARC in exchange of an honest review.

I always love whatever Faith Andrews writes. She is one of great Author whose writing I Adore. She never disappoints me. Once again she has written a wonderful book.

First Came You is the novella of the Fate Series and it's really Amazing. It's the story of love, loss, and how true love can leave biggest wounds in your life. Faith has written wonderful Childhood friends to Lovers Romance. I Loved seeing how Tommy and Gabby's Love started and developed with the years. Everybody should have a Man like Tommy Edwards in their Life. He is a perfect Man and any girl would be lucky to have him in her life.

I Cannot recommend this book enough. If you are looking for a great story and amazing characters then everybody should read this series.
Profile Image for Lindsey King.
842 reviews34 followers
April 27, 2015
Oh my goodness! First and foremost I was given an arc for an honest review. This is my first Faith Andrews book and there will most definitely be more! Tommy and Gabriella..... where to begin??? They are such a sweet couple. Meeting as kids and growing up together only makes them even more compatible. Tommy is a hard core lover, protector, and anchor for Gabby. Little miss Gabby is so very young and searching for her independence. Given all that she is still a good girl. Unfortunately there's always something that happened to screw everything up. Okay!!! I'm going to stop there before I give anything away. I will say the feelings with this book are major! You will laugh, cry, maybe even cuss a little bit. But it's so worth it!!! one click this baby asap! I can't wait for the rest of the story!!! Thank you so much Faith Andrews for letting me read this. It was amazing!
136 reviews
April 16, 2015
I was given a copy for an honest review.

What a beautiful and emotional novella First Came You is! I have been looking forward to reading this part of Gabby and Tommy's story and wow!! Faith did an amazing job of telling such a wonderful and very emotional part of Gabby's life.

I absolutley loved Tommy and Gabby, there relationship although had some ups and downs, but was a story filled with love, friendship, and an amazing bond. I found myself in tears a few times while reading, and could not put it down.

I would absolutley recommend this beautiful story to everyone, just have your tissues ready!! Faith's writing is amazing and I am looking forward to what she has next in the future!
Profile Image for Shelley Jarin.
58 reviews4 followers
July 6, 2015
First Came You is a story of love that started from childhood friends to bestfriends to highschool love to forever.

Tommy & Gabby is on their road to forever when tragedy struck that changed their lives. From here you'll see how strong their love is, that in every challenges, in every twist in their lives it all comes back to their destiny to be together.

This is the first book from Faith Andrews that i have read and got me hooked. You can really feel the emotions of her characters, the love loss, the sadness, the feeling of having your firsts with your first love, the happiness. A story that we can all relate to as it happens in reality. Definitely worth recommending.

Thank you again Faith for giving me an ARC of First Came You.
Profile Image for April.
523 reviews5 followers
April 30, 2015
Wow, what an amazing love story. I read FEEL AGAIN first, and to get to see this side of Tommy and Gabby's love story was amazing. It all started with Tommy saving Gabby from the neighborhood bullies. From there they built a great friendship and then more. With strict parents on Gabby's, she is afraid of their reaction.
How Tommy is constantly professing his love and wants for the future, I just loved him.
After a devastating lose for Gabby, she feels suffocated and smothered. She pushes Tommy away and starts to act out.
A year and half later, they find their way back to each other. Grabby finally gets herself together.
The proposal by Tommy, OMG!!!
I would highly recommend this book and then jumping right into Feel Again.
Profile Image for Teresa.
29 reviews
July 1, 2015
I received this as an ARC. I loved meeting Tommy and Gabby. Their story is sweet and based in where we all hope true love begins...friendship. They face some difficult and emotional life events that would rock most foundations but when their is true love and unconditional acceptance the darkest days are only a brief moment in time. Their story continues and I think understanding how something began helps you understand how it shapes the characters in their future decisions. without giving too much away if this is your first glimpse of their connection I have to say the set up in field is one of my absolutely favorite moments. Love is not always easy but when it is real it is totally worth it no matter what the future holds.
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