What do readers think of The First Warm Evening of the Year by Jamie M. Saul? Write your own review.

I found this book frustrating to read. What this book explored is the fascinating terrain of love lost and new love found and the crazy dance of relationships. However, very little happens and much of the dialog is internal and introspective. Plus I just couldn't buy the idea of love at first sight for two middle aged and wounded people. I did appreciate the writer's intense psychological analysis and his gentle handling of each character.

I've never checked on reviews before while reading a book to review, but I did here halfway through, because I thought I simply was missing something. I was bored, unimpressed with supposed love at first sight with someone who would not give the hero the time of day. The story of the two brothers was a distraction that made no sense. The second half of the book actually picked up a bit (probably because the brothers stepped out of the plot). It was a soft and even pleasant read but I'd not recommend it.

Where to start with this review? I felt the writing was amateurish, and terribly dragging in plot and character development. The worst of it was I felt like I was back in Jr. High School. The story, the crushes, the "love at first sight". Please, he does not even know the woman and he is in love with her and can't stop thinking about her! I am forgiving on plot and characters if the writing is good. I felt like a High School teacher reading a really bad, really long student paper.
Like another reviewer, I only finished it because I committed myself to reading it and reviewing it. I would never recommend this to anyone. With so many talented and accomplished authors trying to publish; it is sad this is what is being offered to readers.

I wanted to like this book, unfortunately the author never caught my attention or interest. The novel seemed to be more of a memoir by the author who was working out his own psychological hangups and issues. The writing was clumsy and pedantic. Reminded me more of a low class romance novel than a "tour de force' as highlighted on the book jacket.

Don't pick up this book unless you believe in love at first sight, enjoy seemingly deep conversations that are mostly puzzling, and don't mind a book with absolutely zero plot line. At page 153 I had simply had enough. I plowed through because I owed you this review. There is a literary tone to the writing, but without true poetry or insight as in a real literary work of art. All the bellybutton gazing was exasperating and nothing really rang true. I've read some incredible books lately, this was not one of them.