Book Review: The First Daughter

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

The First Daughter     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
K. N. Casper
Class/Genre:   Romance
Harlequin, Aug 2001, $4.99, 299 pp.

Kerry First has spent her life making mistakes in her relationship including marrying an irresponsible drunk, who spiraled her down into his world. Now almost two decades later, Kerry, a recovering alcoholic, wants to open a shelter to help and protect people like her who are struggling with abusive relationships.

Millionaire Craig Robeson knew Kerry in high school and his final memory of her is ugly as she deserted him for another boy at the prom. Craig and his mother share an estranged relationship over his role in the death of his father, an alcoholic. He vowed to never date an alcoholic, especially Kerry until he sees her again when she needs funding for her project.

KN Casper has written a taut contemporary romance that focuses on the strain caused by alcoholism and abuse on the individual and family members. THE FIRST DAUGHTER is filled with depth though at times the abuse issue seems drowned by the alcoholism issue even with both intertwined. Kerry is an incredible character struggling with her drinking problem in a difficult realistic manner. Craig is willing to forgive almost everything of Kerry, but not the alcoholic disease that eats at her soul. THE FIRST DAUGHETR is a powerful insightful tale remindful of stories like Days of Wine and Roses.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner