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First Day of My Life
There are three sides to every story... It's GCSE results day. Frankie's best friend, Jojo, is missing. A baby has been stolen. And more than one person has been lying. Frankie's determined to find out the truth and her ex-boyfriend Ram is the only person who can help her. But they're both in for a shock... EVERYTHING is about to change.
358 pages, Hardcover
First published July 2, 2020
13 people are currently reading
607 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Williamson
12 books533 followersLisa was born in Nottingham in 1980. She spent most of her childhood drawing, daydreaming and making up stories in her head (but never getting round to writing them down). As a teenager she was bitten by the acting bug and at 19 moved to London to study drama at university.
Following graduation, Lisa adopted the stage name of Lisa Cassidy and spent several happy and chaotic years occasionally getting paid to pretend to be other people. Between acting roles she worked as an office temp and started making up stories all over again, only this time she had a go at writing them down.
Lisa lives in London, where she is lucky enough to split her time between writing and acting. In her spare time she reads a lot of books, continues to daydream and eats way too much ice cream.
Following graduation, Lisa adopted the stage name of Lisa Cassidy and spent several happy and chaotic years occasionally getting paid to pretend to be other people. Between acting roles she worked as an office temp and started making up stories all over again, only this time she had a go at writing them down.
Lisa lives in London, where she is lucky enough to split her time between writing and acting. In her spare time she reads a lot of books, continues to daydream and eats way too much ice cream.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
October 12, 2021
I really enjoyed listening to this as an audiobook, especially the VERY Westcountry Swindon accents (I lived in Swindon for 8 years and those were the most Bristolian Swindonians I ever heard) but overall well delivered with a clear difference in personality and tone between POVs.
I did guess the twist fairly early on, which is a shame because I think the revelations were really needed to give it some hits after a slow start.
I wasn't expecting to be so triggered by the birth scene. Having had miscarriage a couple of months ago (not alone or in a bathroom, but... ya know) something about hearing the fear, panic and pain actually read aloud and acted out gave me a tough time.
I liked the character of JoJo, but Ram I could give or take, and Frankie I didn't gel with at all unfortunately. Overall I enjoyed it, but definitely not a favourite from Lisa Williamson.
I did guess the twist fairly early on, which is a shame because I think the revelations were really needed to give it some hits after a slow start.
I wasn't expecting to be so triggered by the birth scene. Having had miscarriage a couple of months ago (not alone or in a bathroom, but... ya know) something about hearing the fear, panic and pain actually read aloud and acted out gave me a tough time.
I liked the character of JoJo, but Ram I could give or take, and Frankie I didn't gel with at all unfortunately. Overall I enjoyed it, but definitely not a favourite from Lisa Williamson.
February 19, 2021
Headlines:
Coming of age
Figurative shaking of fist
Testing friendships
It's no secret that I'm a big fan of Lisa Williamson's books. Why, you ask? Because she carves a quintessential British feel to the coming-of-age tales she crafts. Not only that, every book I've read of hers has been so unusual but credible and First Day of My Life was no exception.
The story was told from the perspective of three friends, Frankie, Jo-jo and Ram, whose lives were linked and woven with complexity. I did not expect much of what initally happened in the first third of the book but it was so heart-breakingly real and I felt right there in the situation. I was so damn worried for one of the friends, I got ridiculously invested.
This whole investment of mine led me to me rage-reading some sections as the adults in one of the situations (I'm being so careful of spoilers here) were so selfish and willfully blind. I wanted to rush in and advocate for one of the threesome.
If this were a TV drama, I'd be yelling at the screen right now, begging the heroine to wake up and smell the coffee, to stop being so bloody naive.
Yeah, that quote captured my feelings!
This read brought moments of angst, stress, brimming eyes, sweetness but it managed to wrap me up in a warm hug at the end. I am so happy to add this to my YA collection. Read this if you like coming-of-age, a story you've not read before and if you like to read about great characters with a good slice of reality.
Thank you to David Fickling Books for the early review copy.
You can find this review on A Take From Two Cities Blog.
Coming of age
Figurative shaking of fist
Testing friendships
It's no secret that I'm a big fan of Lisa Williamson's books. Why, you ask? Because she carves a quintessential British feel to the coming-of-age tales she crafts. Not only that, every book I've read of hers has been so unusual but credible and First Day of My Life was no exception.
The story was told from the perspective of three friends, Frankie, Jo-jo and Ram, whose lives were linked and woven with complexity. I did not expect much of what initally happened in the first third of the book but it was so heart-breakingly real and I felt right there in the situation. I was so damn worried for one of the friends, I got ridiculously invested.
This whole investment of mine led me to me rage-reading some sections as the adults in one of the situations (I'm being so careful of spoilers here) were so selfish and willfully blind. I wanted to rush in and advocate for one of the threesome.
If this were a TV drama, I'd be yelling at the screen right now, begging the heroine to wake up and smell the coffee, to stop being so bloody naive.
Yeah, that quote captured my feelings!
This read brought moments of angst, stress, brimming eyes, sweetness but it managed to wrap me up in a warm hug at the end. I am so happy to add this to my YA collection. Read this if you like coming-of-age, a story you've not read before and if you like to read about great characters with a good slice of reality.
Thank you to David Fickling Books for the early review copy.
You can find this review on A Take From Two Cities Blog.
January 17, 2021
Frankie and Jojo are best friends. It’s GCSE results day and Jojo is supposed to be at Frankie’s house so they can go and collect their results together, but she doesn’t show up. One for always being on time, Frankie finds this strange. Even more strange is that she isn’t answering her phone… A local baby named Olivia Sinclair goes missing, around the same time as Jojo disappeared. Frankie is determined to find out the truth, but with no other means of transport she enlists her ex-boyfriend Ram to help. Did her best friend steal a baby, or is their more to the story than meets the eye?
I have to admit, YA is a new genre to me. The synopsis instantly drew me in and I am glad I gave this book a chance, I thoroughly enjoyed it!
The three main characters, Frankie, Ram, Jojo are all ‘average’ teens. The bond between Frankie and Jojo is lovely and a true reflection of close friendship at sixteen years old. The ex- Ram, and Frankie’s struggle to get over him despite knowing they were a wrong fit is also an accurate reflection. Their lives feel very synonymous with typical teens and it’s a refreshing read, casting my mind back to my own teenage years. Although mine were not quite this interesting!
The book is primarily set in Nottingham which I loved. The mention of the ice rink was a complete throwback to my own teens, even down to the mention of the feet stench. It really does permeate the place! Being Midlands-based, I spent loads of time there when I was younger, visiting with my friends on weekends or school holidays. I also went to uni there for a while and it was nice to find somewhere familiar in a novel and be able to picture it in vivid detail!
The novel is told in 4 parts / 3 perspectives; Frankie, Jojo, Ram and a combined viewpoint end section. I enjoyed reading from each person’s point of view and also gathering their backstory from their perspective. It provided interesting all-round knowledge of the story and the use of different fonts for each was a nice touch too.
I felt the story and the novel itself were really quite emotive. The overarching theme of pregnancy permeated the novel. I felt it was dealt with in a brilliant manner, one which goes against stereotypes and makes things seem less ‘end of the world’ scary which was intelligent and reassuring. It was well portrayed but also sensitively addressed in all the places it needed to be.
There are a number of twists and shocking turns which were unexpected, but equally brilliant and well received. I love that point where you start to guess something just before it’s announced and you’re in complete shock. I had a few of those moments with this novel!
The writing was wholly accurate to life with a newborn baby. I got major nostalgia and was taken right back to the cry, feed, sleep cycle of early motherhood! The fact that the baby shared a birthday with my son just made me like the story even more.
If you fancy delving into your teenage years and reimagining your self in Frankie, Jojo or Ram’s shoes, whilst simultaneously grasping the explosive emotions and close friendships which go alongside this and the added pressure of a potential baby, I’d highly recommend Lisa’s novel.
I have to admit, YA is a new genre to me. The synopsis instantly drew me in and I am glad I gave this book a chance, I thoroughly enjoyed it!
The three main characters, Frankie, Ram, Jojo are all ‘average’ teens. The bond between Frankie and Jojo is lovely and a true reflection of close friendship at sixteen years old. The ex- Ram, and Frankie’s struggle to get over him despite knowing they were a wrong fit is also an accurate reflection. Their lives feel very synonymous with typical teens and it’s a refreshing read, casting my mind back to my own teenage years. Although mine were not quite this interesting!
The book is primarily set in Nottingham which I loved. The mention of the ice rink was a complete throwback to my own teens, even down to the mention of the feet stench. It really does permeate the place! Being Midlands-based, I spent loads of time there when I was younger, visiting with my friends on weekends or school holidays. I also went to uni there for a while and it was nice to find somewhere familiar in a novel and be able to picture it in vivid detail!
The novel is told in 4 parts / 3 perspectives; Frankie, Jojo, Ram and a combined viewpoint end section. I enjoyed reading from each person’s point of view and also gathering their backstory from their perspective. It provided interesting all-round knowledge of the story and the use of different fonts for each was a nice touch too.
I felt the story and the novel itself were really quite emotive. The overarching theme of pregnancy permeated the novel. I felt it was dealt with in a brilliant manner, one which goes against stereotypes and makes things seem less ‘end of the world’ scary which was intelligent and reassuring. It was well portrayed but also sensitively addressed in all the places it needed to be.
There are a number of twists and shocking turns which were unexpected, but equally brilliant and well received. I love that point where you start to guess something just before it’s announced and you’re in complete shock. I had a few of those moments with this novel!
The writing was wholly accurate to life with a newborn baby. I got major nostalgia and was taken right back to the cry, feed, sleep cycle of early motherhood! The fact that the baby shared a birthday with my son just made me like the story even more.
If you fancy delving into your teenage years and reimagining your self in Frankie, Jojo or Ram’s shoes, whilst simultaneously grasping the explosive emotions and close friendships which go alongside this and the added pressure of a potential baby, I’d highly recommend Lisa’s novel.
July 3, 2020
First Day of My Life had me hooked from the start. Utterly addictive. A YA contemporary, fast paced, with friendships and relationships tested to the max. Full of drama, a great storyline, mystery and emotion. 2 friends, first loves and a missing baby... this book has it all.
The book is told from 3 main characters perspectives. It tells the story of 3 teens. Jojo, her best friend Frankie, and Frankie's ex Boyfriend Ram.
I don't want to give too much of the story away in my review, so I would just say you need to pick up this incredible book for yourself. If you like YA books, with mystery, and complicated relationships and utterly addictive storylines... then you will love this Book.
This book is full of heart and the ending just like the whole of the book was written so well. I absolutely adore Lisa Williamson's writing, and will be picking up more from this Author in future.
I feel so lucky to have been sent a super early copy of this Book to review! It was due to be released July 2nd 2020 but will now be released in January 2021. I highly recommend you add this Book to your TBR.
*Thank you to David Fickling Books and Lisa Williamson for the early copy, in exchange of an honest review.*
The book is told from 3 main characters perspectives. It tells the story of 3 teens. Jojo, her best friend Frankie, and Frankie's ex Boyfriend Ram.
I don't want to give too much of the story away in my review, so I would just say you need to pick up this incredible book for yourself. If you like YA books, with mystery, and complicated relationships and utterly addictive storylines... then you will love this Book.
This book is full of heart and the ending just like the whole of the book was written so well. I absolutely adore Lisa Williamson's writing, and will be picking up more from this Author in future.
I feel so lucky to have been sent a super early copy of this Book to review! It was due to be released July 2nd 2020 but will now be released in January 2021. I highly recommend you add this Book to your TBR.
*Thank you to David Fickling Books and Lisa Williamson for the early copy, in exchange of an honest review.*
January 29, 2021
A contemporary YA read that is fast paced, full of drama and intrigue and had me hooked from the start.
It's hard to discuss the plot without giving away secrets so I will tell you its told from three points of view. Those of Frankie, her best friend Jojo and ex boyfriend Ram
This book will appeal to all ages as so well written with an excellent amount of twists and turns to keep you guessing and turning the pages.
I read this in one sitting and loved every part of this book. It covers some hard hitting topics in a sensitive way that does not feel over exposed or dramatic.
This book is full of heart and is endearing as the characters themselves.
I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
First day of my life is out now and I thoroughly recommend you get yourself a copy. All the ❤ from me
It's hard to discuss the plot without giving away secrets so I will tell you its told from three points of view. Those of Frankie, her best friend Jojo and ex boyfriend Ram
This book will appeal to all ages as so well written with an excellent amount of twists and turns to keep you guessing and turning the pages.
I read this in one sitting and loved every part of this book. It covers some hard hitting topics in a sensitive way that does not feel over exposed or dramatic.
This book is full of heart and is endearing as the characters themselves.
I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
First day of my life is out now and I thoroughly recommend you get yourself a copy. All the ❤ from me
May 7, 2021
This young adult book is a world away from what was available when I was young, when in books sex and relationships didn’t exist! I loved it, but probably wouldn’t have wanted my children to read it. 😅The ending was a bit optimistic in my opinion, but why not? I’m a happy customer!
February 14, 2020
WOW. JUST... OMG. (Review to come!)
March 12, 2021
Full review to come 🤗
March 4, 2020
In this book we follow Frankie as on GCSE results day her best friend Jojo doesn't show up as a baby went missing and Frankie puts two and two together to think as Jojo has been acting so out of sorts she could have abducted the baby randomly.
Frankie calls on her ex boyfriend Ram to help her as she traces her to far away in Swindon where the two discover a life changing shock can the three ever be on good terms with each other again?
This book was a fabulous read with a great twist the initial mystery of a baby going missing was thrilling and I would've like to have seen how that side played out too as well as Frankie and Jojo's friendship story too. The trio battle a lot of drama and if like me you enjoyed The Baby by Lisa Drakeford you should definitely read this one or both of course!
Thanks to David Fickling books for kindly sending me a copy to review!
Frankie calls on her ex boyfriend Ram to help her as she traces her to far away in Swindon where the two discover a life changing shock can the three ever be on good terms with each other again?
This book was a fabulous read with a great twist the initial mystery of a baby going missing was thrilling and I would've like to have seen how that side played out too as well as Frankie and Jojo's friendship story too. The trio battle a lot of drama and if like me you enjoyed The Baby by Lisa Drakeford you should definitely read this one or both of course!
Thanks to David Fickling books for kindly sending me a copy to review!
February 7, 2021
I LOVED this book. Another AMAZING on by one fo my favourite authors. Almost as good as Mia in the Middle. I loved the twist, the characters are written beautifully. Jojo is amazing, she just shows how they first way you look at people isn’t actually how they are. You would look at her and immediately assume she was reckless, she’d run away, but the story told behind that actually shows that she is the nicest, kindest, loveliest, bravest person. I loved Ram as well, and Frankie was the perfect person to be Jojo’s best friend. I think if you love the characters it just makes the book even more amazing. I can’t wait fir the next Lisa Williamson book!
March 30, 2022
Way too predictable and boring.
Poorly written as a lot of this stuff is written from what you would expect from a 18 year old, not a 15 coming 16 year old. Don’t bother reading as it’s clear from the beginning and then the plot is fillered out with ramblings plus the main character is so annoying and stupid.
Poorly written as a lot of this stuff is written from what you would expect from a 18 year old, not a 15 coming 16 year old. Don’t bother reading as it’s clear from the beginning and then the plot is fillered out with ramblings plus the main character is so annoying and stupid.
February 13, 2021
Omg loooooooove!! Een van m'n nieuwe favo's wss. Wat een belangrijk thema is dit holy shit, origineel man. Heb ik zelf nog niet gezien in YA boeken (zullen vast bestaan). Krachtig, spannend, in 1 ruk uitgelezen. Letterlijk, armen deden zeer van uren op rij met dat boek in handen. Maar was 't dubbel en dwars waard.
June 4, 2024
Listened on Borrowbox, great book, kept me listening.
June 27, 2022
EDIT 26/06/2022: reread for the YA Book Prize 2022 and loved this as much second time around.
I’d like to start this review by saying a huge thank you to David Fickling Books, who sent me an advanced copy of First Day of My Life in exchange for an honest and fair review.
I read First Day of My Life back in May but, with the release date being pushed back due to everything that’s going on in the world, I decided to wait to review it closer to release day. That is now TOMORROW, which is extremely exciting! But also means I can hardly remember anything I was planning on saying about this book, so it’s already due a reread.
First Day of My Life follows two best friends, Frankie and Jojo, as they discover truths about each other (and themselves) that puts their friendship to the test.
Frankie hasn’t seen Jojo all summer, so she’s looking forward to meeting up with her friend to collect their GCSE results on Results Day. However, when she gets to the school Jojo is nowhere to be found. That might be Frankie’s fault, though – she’s late because the route she normally takes is closed because of a police investigation into a kidnapping.
It isn’t until later that day, when she finally gets hold of Jojo on the phone, that Frankie makes a startling discovery. Hearing a baby crying in the background, Frankie starts to wonder whether Jojo might be responsible for the kidnapping. But why would Frankie’s goody-two-shoes best friend decide to kidnap a baby, and where can she have gone?
Luckily Frankie has Find My Friend on her phone, so she manages to track Jojo down to a hotel in Swindon. Unfortunately, the only person Frankie knows who drives is her ex-boyfriend, Ram. Driving across country in a search for the truth, will they be able to put the awkwardness behind them to save Jojo from whatever trouble she might be in?
This novel is a love letter to the tumultuous nature of teen friendships. Lisa Williamson perfectly encapsulates the extreme emotions found in platonic relationships (particularly those between teen girls). The friendship between Frankie and Jojo is almost toxic at times, but the depth of their feelings for each other means that they’re able to work through anything given enough time.
Frankie is very self-absorbed, and makes everything about her throughout which is frustrating. However, it did remind me a lot of my teen days, and I saw a lot of myself in the way that Frankie reacted to the situation that she found herself in! Even though it is quite annoying, it’s realistic.
Meanwhile Jojo makes herself the centre of attention by running away, but she does it for a very important reason, and this story shows that sometimes extremely out of character behaviour is the only choice you have.
My favourite character out of the three perspectives was probably Ram. He’s such a cinnamon roll. I would have liked it if more of the story had focused on him as I thought his character had a lot more potential, but I also appreciated the fact that this is a YA contemporary which is much more focused on the importance of friendship over romantic relationships.
This has lots of different aspects that I love – multiple perspectives, a non-chronological timeline, a cross-country road trip – and the main bulk of the action plays out in Swindon, which is actually where I live. It was a lot of fun to speculate over whether Lisa Williamson had been to Swindon to research the setting before basing her story here, and discussing which clubs, takeaways and hotels the characters could be visiting. We have much more than just a Magic Roundabout here, I promise!
This was easily a five star read for me. I’m a bit sad about the fact that the publication date got pushed back to 2021 because I was convinced that this was going to be appearing on the YA Book Prize shortlist this year. I’ll just have to wait until next year and keep my fingers crossed that this novel gets the recognition that it deserves.
This is the third of Lisa Williamson’s YA novels that I’ve read (I only have All About Mia to get to!) and her books have always been four or five star reads for me, so if you haven’t read any of her other stories I highly recommend picking them up. She’s a shining star in the UKYA scene.
Once again, huge thanks to David Fickling Books for sending me an advanced copy of this one. I will cherish it forever!
This review was originally posted on The Bumbling Blogger.
I’d like to start this review by saying a huge thank you to David Fickling Books, who sent me an advanced copy of First Day of My Life in exchange for an honest and fair review.
I read First Day of My Life back in May but, with the release date being pushed back due to everything that’s going on in the world, I decided to wait to review it closer to release day. That is now TOMORROW, which is extremely exciting! But also means I can hardly remember anything I was planning on saying about this book, so it’s already due a reread.
First Day of My Life follows two best friends, Frankie and Jojo, as they discover truths about each other (and themselves) that puts their friendship to the test.
Frankie hasn’t seen Jojo all summer, so she’s looking forward to meeting up with her friend to collect their GCSE results on Results Day. However, when she gets to the school Jojo is nowhere to be found. That might be Frankie’s fault, though – she’s late because the route she normally takes is closed because of a police investigation into a kidnapping.
It isn’t until later that day, when she finally gets hold of Jojo on the phone, that Frankie makes a startling discovery. Hearing a baby crying in the background, Frankie starts to wonder whether Jojo might be responsible for the kidnapping. But why would Frankie’s goody-two-shoes best friend decide to kidnap a baby, and where can she have gone?
Luckily Frankie has Find My Friend on her phone, so she manages to track Jojo down to a hotel in Swindon. Unfortunately, the only person Frankie knows who drives is her ex-boyfriend, Ram. Driving across country in a search for the truth, will they be able to put the awkwardness behind them to save Jojo from whatever trouble she might be in?
This novel is a love letter to the tumultuous nature of teen friendships. Lisa Williamson perfectly encapsulates the extreme emotions found in platonic relationships (particularly those between teen girls). The friendship between Frankie and Jojo is almost toxic at times, but the depth of their feelings for each other means that they’re able to work through anything given enough time.
Frankie is very self-absorbed, and makes everything about her throughout which is frustrating. However, it did remind me a lot of my teen days, and I saw a lot of myself in the way that Frankie reacted to the situation that she found herself in! Even though it is quite annoying, it’s realistic.
Meanwhile Jojo makes herself the centre of attention by running away, but she does it for a very important reason, and this story shows that sometimes extremely out of character behaviour is the only choice you have.
My favourite character out of the three perspectives was probably Ram. He’s such a cinnamon roll. I would have liked it if more of the story had focused on him as I thought his character had a lot more potential, but I also appreciated the fact that this is a YA contemporary which is much more focused on the importance of friendship over romantic relationships.
This has lots of different aspects that I love – multiple perspectives, a non-chronological timeline, a cross-country road trip – and the main bulk of the action plays out in Swindon, which is actually where I live. It was a lot of fun to speculate over whether Lisa Williamson had been to Swindon to research the setting before basing her story here, and discussing which clubs, takeaways and hotels the characters could be visiting. We have much more than just a Magic Roundabout here, I promise!
This was easily a five star read for me. I’m a bit sad about the fact that the publication date got pushed back to 2021 because I was convinced that this was going to be appearing on the YA Book Prize shortlist this year. I’ll just have to wait until next year and keep my fingers crossed that this novel gets the recognition that it deserves.
This is the third of Lisa Williamson’s YA novels that I’ve read (I only have All About Mia to get to!) and her books have always been four or five star reads for me, so if you haven’t read any of her other stories I highly recommend picking them up. She’s a shining star in the UKYA scene.
Once again, huge thanks to David Fickling Books for sending me an advanced copy of this one. I will cherish it forever!
This review was originally posted on The Bumbling Blogger.
February 2, 2021
My god, if I think about this book too much, I feel like I’m going to cry (I’ll never listen to Bright Eyes’ First Day Of My Life the same ever again!) I think I just found another favourite author! This book captured my attention from the very first moment I heard about it, and continued to do so until after reading that last page. In fact, I’m still in awe and I finished the book last week! I haven’t read much YA before but this book has just sold the genre for me completely and I’m already keen to see what this brilliant author comes up with next.
This story had a profound impact on me for a YA story which was completely unexpected, and it is genuinely one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. Each of the three main characters are fantastic, and have been created with immense care and passion. The love for these three just radiates from each page, and you can tell the author has put her heart and soul into each one of them. This combined with a solid plot full of twists and turns made this book award-worthy. Thank you, Lisa, for an experience like no other. I can’t wait to re-read this one!
You can read my full review over on my blog: https://aquintillionwords.com/2021/01...
This story had a profound impact on me for a YA story which was completely unexpected, and it is genuinely one of the most beautiful books I’ve ever read. Each of the three main characters are fantastic, and have been created with immense care and passion. The love for these three just radiates from each page, and you can tell the author has put her heart and soul into each one of them. This combined with a solid plot full of twists and turns made this book award-worthy. Thank you, Lisa, for an experience like no other. I can’t wait to re-read this one!
You can read my full review over on my blog: https://aquintillionwords.com/2021/01...
February 18, 2020
This book is all kinds of magnificent. It’s heartbreaking and tough and hard to read. It’s revelations and secrets. It’s love in so many forms. It’s doing what’s right for you even when you know it’s going to hurt the people you love. It’s hard hitting and raw at times. I love how intertwined the 3 characters are and how their stories unfolded. The 3 perspectives worked so well. The epilogue made my heart so happy. Massive shout out to the scene between Ram and the policeman: it broke my heart. Bloody bravo!
April 17, 2020
Almost every time I read a new book by Lisa Williamson I declare it my new favourite, and this is no exception. To give you an idea of how much I liked it, I picked it up after about 2 weeks of barely reading anything on a Thuraday evening at 7pm, intending to read a chapter, and even after taking a break for several hours once it got to 9pm, it was finished for me going to sleep at midnight. It’s the story of best friends Frankie and Jojo, and what happens when Jojo goes missing the same day as a local baby and Frankie hears a baby crying when she eventually manages to get her on the phone. It is UTTERLY gripping. It took me ages to work out a certain twist- I was at least halfway through, and I was SO shocked- and even once I knew exactly what was going on I still couldn’t put the book down till I knew how it would all end. The friendship at the heart of this was definitely my favourite thing about it, however; the bond they shared is really special and also reminded me a lot of me and one of my friends, which is how I came to tell them the night I read this not to steal any babies! The romance was adorable too, but it definitely took a backseat to the friendship for me. I seriously can’t recommend this enough to anyone looking for an original, hugely interesting YA. 5/5
May 6, 2021
It was a passable novel. On a technical level, Williamson's prose is very well done. However, in writing there is a rule: show, don't tell. Williamson does attempt to show the friendship between the characters. Yet, she also tells us that Frankie and Jojo are friends more often than not.
Also, the romance between two of the characters felt rather forced.
The text drags on in some places and seems almost padding for space.
I did enjoy the changing perspectives - something that has gained popularity in recent years. To that, I commend her.
Also, the plot seems a bit bland and generic in some places. I feel that there are some things Williamson could have done with the text to make a more dramatic and enjoyable read. But that could be just me.
Also, the romance between two of the characters felt rather forced.
The text drags on in some places and seems almost padding for space.
I did enjoy the changing perspectives - something that has gained popularity in recent years. To that, I commend her.
Also, the plot seems a bit bland and generic in some places. I feel that there are some things Williamson could have done with the text to make a more dramatic and enjoyable read. But that could be just me.
March 15, 2021
After all the 5-stars I thought I was in for more.
We have our three main characters and the ”mystery” of the book. Problem is, mystery is easily solved in the first few chapters and then nothing really comes as a surprise anymore. We mostly get to know the friendship of Frankie and Jojo from their thoughts about their past or Rams point of view.
It was an easy and pleasant read, but nothing more or less. For a book centered around the plot and not the characters it was not strong enough to hold through the book.
We have our three main characters and the ”mystery” of the book. Problem is, mystery is easily solved in the first few chapters and then nothing really comes as a surprise anymore. We mostly get to know the friendship of Frankie and Jojo from their thoughts about their past or Rams point of view.
It was an easy and pleasant read, but nothing more or less. For a book centered around the plot and not the characters it was not strong enough to hold through the book.
March 1, 2020
This is a story that first intrigues you, then grips you and pulls you in until the very end. It's about love, friendship, trust, selfishness and being unselfish. Scenes that will make you gasp and scenes that will make you cry. Don't want to say too much about the story as don't want to give away any spoilers but definitely one for the secondary school library - it's going to fly off the shelves!
January 14, 2021
Lisa Williamson - What an author. I’ve enjoyed every book and this was just absolutely amazing. I laughed, I cried and I just wow. A great first book for 2021.
I think for character development - Frankie was unlikeable to begin with but as it went on I really related to her in my own ways. Then jojo and ram were written perfectly. Ah! Just a great book!
I think for character development - Frankie was unlikeable to begin with but as it went on I really related to her in my own ways. Then jojo and ram were written perfectly. Ah! Just a great book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2020
Gang. I am so excited about this one. The ARCS. The DETAIL. The EMOTIONS. It’s quite beautiful. Lisa W’s best yet. Brb, listening to Bright Eyes non-stop for the next 48 hours.
May 25, 2021
Review also posted here: http://www.book-drunk.co.uk/2021/05/r...
First Day of My Life by Lisa Williamson has been on my wishlist since the moment I heard about it. I loved the blurb and have enjoyed other books from the same author. I was lucky enough to win a signed copy of this book from the author on Twitter and the read was everything I hoped for and more - an endearing, tender tale of friendship and new beginnings.
It’s GCSE results day and the end of a chapter for best friends Frankie and Jojo. They’ve got a results day party on the horizon and bright futures to look forward to. Except Jojo is missing and Frankie is concerned, so concerned that she has to turn to her ex-boyfriend Ram for help. Jojo is not the only one missing. Local to Frankie, the news that a baby has been stolen has everyone worried and only adds to the mystery. Everything about the opening to this book had me hooked and I loved every twist and turn throughout this heartfelt story.
I won’t talk too much about the plot to avoid spoilers, but I do think this is a great book to read for any teenagers, fans of YA or really anybody who enjoys cleverly written, honest fiction. The book is told in four parts and we get to hear from the perspective of Frankie, Jojo and Ram. I enjoyed the insight into all three characters. Each of them had an individual voice and as we get to follow the story with all three of them, this really helped show their development during the course of the book. The characters definitely grew and this made for a great coming of age story.
Lisa Williamson beautifully represented teenage friendship in First Day of My Life, and this was my favourite aspect of the book. Frankie and Jojo are best friends but it doesn’t mean their friendship comes without complications. They are written very realistically and I thought they were a genuine and proper representation of a lot of teenage relationships. They fall out but they also take the time to listen to each other and talk things through. It’s evident how much they care about each other and I felt like the author perfectly navigates their imperfections and encapsulates the heightened emotions of teenagers with great honesty and sensitivity.
This book made me feel so many emotions and I found myself fully invested and genuinely caring for all three of the main characters. Warm and wonderfully written, Lisa Williamson has crafted a thought-provoking story that is so believable it is hard to see the characters as characters and not as friends. First Day of My Life was so compelling. I didn’t want to put it down. The story will stay with me for a long time.
First Day of My Life by Lisa Williamson has been on my wishlist since the moment I heard about it. I loved the blurb and have enjoyed other books from the same author. I was lucky enough to win a signed copy of this book from the author on Twitter and the read was everything I hoped for and more - an endearing, tender tale of friendship and new beginnings.
It’s GCSE results day and the end of a chapter for best friends Frankie and Jojo. They’ve got a results day party on the horizon and bright futures to look forward to. Except Jojo is missing and Frankie is concerned, so concerned that she has to turn to her ex-boyfriend Ram for help. Jojo is not the only one missing. Local to Frankie, the news that a baby has been stolen has everyone worried and only adds to the mystery. Everything about the opening to this book had me hooked and I loved every twist and turn throughout this heartfelt story.
I won’t talk too much about the plot to avoid spoilers, but I do think this is a great book to read for any teenagers, fans of YA or really anybody who enjoys cleverly written, honest fiction. The book is told in four parts and we get to hear from the perspective of Frankie, Jojo and Ram. I enjoyed the insight into all three characters. Each of them had an individual voice and as we get to follow the story with all three of them, this really helped show their development during the course of the book. The characters definitely grew and this made for a great coming of age story.
Lisa Williamson beautifully represented teenage friendship in First Day of My Life, and this was my favourite aspect of the book. Frankie and Jojo are best friends but it doesn’t mean their friendship comes without complications. They are written very realistically and I thought they were a genuine and proper representation of a lot of teenage relationships. They fall out but they also take the time to listen to each other and talk things through. It’s evident how much they care about each other and I felt like the author perfectly navigates their imperfections and encapsulates the heightened emotions of teenagers with great honesty and sensitivity.
This book made me feel so many emotions and I found myself fully invested and genuinely caring for all three of the main characters. Warm and wonderfully written, Lisa Williamson has crafted a thought-provoking story that is so believable it is hard to see the characters as characters and not as friends. First Day of My Life was so compelling. I didn’t want to put it down. The story will stay with me for a long time.
January 11, 2021
DISCLAIMER - I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are all my own and are in no way influenced by this.
From the synopsis I expected it to be solely Frankie's story, but was pleasantly surprised to find that story delved into Jojo's and Ram's story too. In three separate parts we explore each character in depth helping to understand their story as well as unveiling the narrative with its twists and turns.
The pacing from start to finish was smooth and easy to read, I found myself unable to put it down with needing to find answers to continuous questions. I hadn't expected such a big curve ball so close to the start which definitely spurred me on to read more from the very beginning.
In the beginning Frankie wasn't my favourite person, I thought she was brash and lept to far fetched conclusions without having all the facts. This did keep up throughout the book but you learn to love her flaws and even begin to appreciate them for what they are.
The relationships, especially between Frankie and Jojo, were incredible at showing the bond between childhood best friends that stay together. I'll admit I cried more than once while reading from the pure love between the two and couldn't help but love their development both singularly and together throughout.
For me the ending was the perfect way to finish the story, I felt satisfied with the development of the characters and narrative. However I would have liked it to be played out more instead of explained in the epilogue to see more reactions and small moments that I loved while reading.
Overall I recommend to anyone looking for a heartwarming story about friendship and first love while also seeking a mystery. After this I will definitely be picking up Lisa Williamson's other works and can't wait to see what I find!
From the synopsis I expected it to be solely Frankie's story, but was pleasantly surprised to find that story delved into Jojo's and Ram's story too. In three separate parts we explore each character in depth helping to understand their story as well as unveiling the narrative with its twists and turns.
The pacing from start to finish was smooth and easy to read, I found myself unable to put it down with needing to find answers to continuous questions. I hadn't expected such a big curve ball so close to the start which definitely spurred me on to read more from the very beginning.
In the beginning Frankie wasn't my favourite person, I thought she was brash and lept to far fetched conclusions without having all the facts. This did keep up throughout the book but you learn to love her flaws and even begin to appreciate them for what they are.
The relationships, especially between Frankie and Jojo, were incredible at showing the bond between childhood best friends that stay together. I'll admit I cried more than once while reading from the pure love between the two and couldn't help but love their development both singularly and together throughout.
For me the ending was the perfect way to finish the story, I felt satisfied with the development of the characters and narrative. However I would have liked it to be played out more instead of explained in the epilogue to see more reactions and small moments that I loved while reading.
Overall I recommend to anyone looking for a heartwarming story about friendship and first love while also seeking a mystery. After this I will definitely be picking up Lisa Williamson's other works and can't wait to see what I find!
September 29, 2023
Great three-handed narration, mature teens dealing well with big issues.
I was impressed by the end of this book at the portrayal of each of the main three characters, the author built each into a relatable and realistic person, whose motivations were clear and who interacted really well together.
It was quite an intense story as well. From the 'GCSE results day' opening, a benchmark moment for teens, now just the jumping off point for interwoven strands that open up more than one can of worms for Frankie, Jojo and Ram.
It seems too strange that Jojo, who has worked so hard towards good exam results, should go missing on Results Day. The day a local baby is stolen. And Frankie's phone call to her best friend uncovers the sound of a baby crying in the background. Determined to stop her friend from making a huge life mistake, she recruits her ex, Ram, with his car, to drive her to where Jojo is hiding out.
Which is only, of course, the beginning of a shared, painful story and awakening.
Loved the way this wove along, from one character to the next, filling in blanks. As an adult reader, I had a good idea what was going on, though teens may not be familiar enough with likely plots and get a huge 'whammy' once or twice.
Handled maturely, these young people felt so aware of things other than just themselves and their lives, it was great to see responsible (and of course flawed) young adults represented in fiction here.
The audiobook moved easily from one narrator to the next, and the voices were well chosen to convey the characters realistically.
For ages 13 and above.
I was impressed by the end of this book at the portrayal of each of the main three characters, the author built each into a relatable and realistic person, whose motivations were clear and who interacted really well together.
It was quite an intense story as well. From the 'GCSE results day' opening, a benchmark moment for teens, now just the jumping off point for interwoven strands that open up more than one can of worms for Frankie, Jojo and Ram.
It seems too strange that Jojo, who has worked so hard towards good exam results, should go missing on Results Day. The day a local baby is stolen. And Frankie's phone call to her best friend uncovers the sound of a baby crying in the background. Determined to stop her friend from making a huge life mistake, she recruits her ex, Ram, with his car, to drive her to where Jojo is hiding out.
Which is only, of course, the beginning of a shared, painful story and awakening.
Loved the way this wove along, from one character to the next, filling in blanks. As an adult reader, I had a good idea what was going on, though teens may not be familiar enough with likely plots and get a huge 'whammy' once or twice.
Handled maturely, these young people felt so aware of things other than just themselves and their lives, it was great to see responsible (and of course flawed) young adults represented in fiction here.
The audiobook moved easily from one narrator to the next, and the voices were well chosen to convey the characters realistically.
For ages 13 and above.
January 8, 2021
Review as part of blog tours book was gifted, all views are my own!
Today is my stop on the blog tour for YA novel First Day of My Life by Lisa Williamson.
Well what a book this was to kick off the new year! I was so hooked by the plot of this one that I read it over 2 days, unable and unwilling to put it down!
Frankie and JoJo at best friends. Then JoJo goes missing at the same time a baby is snatched from the area, Frankie hears a baby crying in the background on the phone to JoJo, puts two and two together and ropes in her ex boyfriend to find out exactly what's going on.
So there's a bit of mystery, a lot of teenage drama, likeable characters and most importantly it's well written and enjoyable to read. I love the relationships between the characters, ultimately it's a heartwarming book about friendship and love.
I don't want to say a lot more about the plot. I went into it knowing very little about it and I think that's a great way to enjoy this story, it certainly had a few surprises for me!
Throughout the story there were a few things I disagreed with, particularly the way JoJo's mum and stepmum behaved, um, pretty much the whole way through the book but that was mostly resolved by the end. I also disliked the taking a baby to a nightclub scene and I thought it went against how the character had been portrayed up until then!
If anything I would say the ending was a little bit too neat and tidy but that's just my own preference.
All in all I would say this is a solid ya story that hooks you in and although it has its issues it does leave you with some nice messages and a bit of a fuzzy feeling at the end.
Today is my stop on the blog tour for YA novel First Day of My Life by Lisa Williamson.
Well what a book this was to kick off the new year! I was so hooked by the plot of this one that I read it over 2 days, unable and unwilling to put it down!
Frankie and JoJo at best friends. Then JoJo goes missing at the same time a baby is snatched from the area, Frankie hears a baby crying in the background on the phone to JoJo, puts two and two together and ropes in her ex boyfriend to find out exactly what's going on.
So there's a bit of mystery, a lot of teenage drama, likeable characters and most importantly it's well written and enjoyable to read. I love the relationships between the characters, ultimately it's a heartwarming book about friendship and love.
I don't want to say a lot more about the plot. I went into it knowing very little about it and I think that's a great way to enjoy this story, it certainly had a few surprises for me!
Throughout the story there were a few things I disagreed with, particularly the way JoJo's mum and stepmum behaved, um, pretty much the whole way through the book but that was mostly resolved by the end. I also disliked the taking a baby to a nightclub scene and I thought it went against how the character had been portrayed up until then!
If anything I would say the ending was a little bit too neat and tidy but that's just my own preference.
All in all I would say this is a solid ya story that hooks you in and although it has its issues it does leave you with some nice messages and a bit of a fuzzy feeling at the end.
May 22, 2021
One of the biggest problems I find with books in the YA genre is that it's hard to strike the balance between making teen characters sound authentically teenage without going overboard and turning into constant cringy slang (that often doesn't age well given how quickly what teens actually say evolves). This book does SO well handling the authentic teen voice - the characters' attitudes, words and behaviours all felt genuinely believable without giving off that sense that the author is trying too hard.
Every character had a distinct voice and it was easy to root for them and I enjoyed listening to them develop across the story. Even with a small cast of main characters in the story there's at least some diversity. The story neither glosses over the hard parts of what happens nor demonises it which is refreshingly hopeful. The mood set at the start of the book is a bit at odds with the rest of it; while there is a mystery element, I generally got more of a contemporary, character-driven YA mood from it versus a thriller/mystery one. I'm glad it went in the direction it did though.
Every character had a distinct voice and it was easy to root for them and I enjoyed listening to them develop across the story. Even with a small cast of main characters in the story there's at least some diversity. The story neither glosses over the hard parts of what happens nor demonises it which is refreshingly hopeful. The mood set at the start of the book is a bit at odds with the rest of it; while there is a mystery element, I generally got more of a contemporary, character-driven YA mood from it versus a thriller/mystery one. I'm glad it went in the direction it did though.
Read
September 6, 2021First Day of My Life by Lisa Williamson
As I read it
By Nguyen Xuan
As a result of casual intercourse - her first and only one - with her best friend Frankie’s sixteen-year-old ex, Jojo gave birth to a baby boy at sixteen.
The pregnancy, which didn’t show in any way, went unnoticed by anyone including the future mother until the child was born; and neither its father nor Jojo’s friend Frankie was told about it’s birth.
Jojo ran away with her baby when it was three weeks old and her mom and stepmother, who desperately wanted a child, planned to legally take her baby away from her and frantically tried to cut her from it.
Fortunately, Frankie succeeded in swiftly finding her and the child in a squalid hotel room in remote Swindon before Jojo’s flight turned into a disaster, and Jojo found out with relief that her mother and stepmother still loved her, her best friend was still her best friend, and the baby’s father loved both the child and herself.
First Day of My Life, actually the title of a song, reads first like a thriller, then a vaudeville, and ends like a fairy tale.
As I read it
By Nguyen Xuan
As a result of casual intercourse - her first and only one - with her best friend Frankie’s sixteen-year-old ex, Jojo gave birth to a baby boy at sixteen.
The pregnancy, which didn’t show in any way, went unnoticed by anyone including the future mother until the child was born; and neither its father nor Jojo’s friend Frankie was told about it’s birth.
Jojo ran away with her baby when it was three weeks old and her mom and stepmother, who desperately wanted a child, planned to legally take her baby away from her and frantically tried to cut her from it.
Fortunately, Frankie succeeded in swiftly finding her and the child in a squalid hotel room in remote Swindon before Jojo’s flight turned into a disaster, and Jojo found out with relief that her mother and stepmother still loved her, her best friend was still her best friend, and the baby’s father loved both the child and herself.
First Day of My Life, actually the title of a song, reads first like a thriller, then a vaudeville, and ends like a fairy tale.
December 15, 2021
4.5 stars
I really liked it! I was swept in straightaway and didn't want to put it down. The writing was brilliant, with humour and a lot of description to really set the scene. The characters were well-rounded and likeable, although Frankie was a little annoying at times, as well as Jojo's parents. The plot went different to how I expected: I was expecting a mystery, kidnapping story, but in the end it was just your regular teen drama. However, I liked it and I like how the teens and the way they behaved felt authentic. I would read it again.
Recommended for: ages 13+. Frequent swearing and sex references.
I really liked it! I was swept in straightaway and didn't want to put it down. The writing was brilliant, with humour and a lot of description to really set the scene. The characters were well-rounded and likeable, although Frankie was a little annoying at times, as well as Jojo's parents. The plot went different to how I expected: I was expecting a mystery, kidnapping story, but in the end it was just your regular teen drama. However, I liked it and I like how the teens and the way they behaved felt authentic. I would read it again.
Recommended for: ages 13+. Frequent swearing and sex references.
December 29, 2020
Now this is what you call a page turner! I picked this up right before bedtime, thinking I’d read a few chapters then go to sleep - but no, two hours later and I realise I’ve only got 80 pages left because it’s just such a great, fast paced read!
Full of all that exciting teen drama, characters you’ll instantly rally around and those kind of friendships which feel more like family - this is a story with heart, and as a mother I really sympathised with the situation some of them find themselves in.
I think this book sets a great example for younger readers when it comes to understanding and compassion for others - for two young girls to be able to see past mistakes and betrayals and to forgive and still value their friendship above anything is wonderful. I’d definitely recommend this to YA and older readers too as it was just a really enjoyable read all around!
Full of all that exciting teen drama, characters you’ll instantly rally around and those kind of friendships which feel more like family - this is a story with heart, and as a mother I really sympathised with the situation some of them find themselves in.
I think this book sets a great example for younger readers when it comes to understanding and compassion for others - for two young girls to be able to see past mistakes and betrayals and to forgive and still value their friendship above anything is wonderful. I’d definitely recommend this to YA and older readers too as it was just a really enjoyable read all around!
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