Customer Reviews

First Lady

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

It was always going to be hard to follow the action and drama of the vastly popular Madam President. The characters of Devlyn Marlowe and Lauren Strayer have a multitude of fans, and Blayne Cooper and T Novan faced a great challenge in extending their story into a second book. But in First Lady, Cooper and Novan give an impressive demonstration of just how far they have travelled as a writing duo. For as well as being a playground for their signature humor - the wedding night scene is hilarious - and quick-fire dialog, the writing in First Lady shows a greater maturity and confidence than their previous works. The developing relationship between the President and her soon-to-be consort is skilfully and subtly drawn, as the tensions surrounding running the nation and getting married at the same time are played out. These characters have real depth, and the result is that First Lady is both an enjoyable and satisfying book. Highly recommended.

I enjoyed this book mostly for the chance to spend additional time with these likable and interesting characters that the authors created. There are some great moments in this book. It's highly entertaining to be along for the ride as the wedding is planned and executed. I also really liked the honest way they deal with Dev's handling of all of the trauma's and stresses of being President after almost having been killed, etc. They even bring up how she dealt with Samantha's death so many years before. There was a lot of poignancy here, and it felt real and gave Lauren and Dev some real issues to work with.

Overall, though, there never really seemed to be a direction or a point that could have made the book stronger. I know that this was an earlier work for both of these authors, and you can see how they grow over the years in their storytelling abilities. There's still a lot of humor and emotion and romance here. But similar to the first book it was almost like a collection of well-written, amusing or touching scenes involving these characters, versus scenes that followed a strong narrative line to a powerful conclusion. Even up to the prologue, which was a precious look at this family in the future as they prepare for life after the White House, I would sometimes stop and think "what's the point of this scene?"

So again, well-written in individual scenes. Strong characterizations and consistent motivations. There are a lot of good pieces here, if only the construction could have had more discipline or been stronger. An above-average 3 to 3-1/2 stars.

I couldn't be happier with this novel - the characters are absolutely charming. I could not put the book down until I finished it

I laughed out loud many times while reading First Lady.

The dialogue is really well written, I could totally visualize the action.

There are a couple real tear jerker moments.

Can't wait to to read the author's newest book.

This is a Keeper !

I really enjoyed this well-written story. It was fun and didn't take itself too seriously. Cooper's books have not disappointed me yet.

The sequel is awesome and after you read both books, you are inspired to watch Geena Davis in Madam President DVD!

First Lady was an excellent Chapter 2 to Madam President! This book was a lot of fun and it really showed a true to life version of families today. This book is a very easy and enjoyable read! I hope there will be a third installment for these amazing women! Cooper and Novan are an excellent team and their writing styles just flow together effortlessly.
This book is worth every penny in my opinion.

I am a very big fan of Blayne Cooper and T. Novan, and have read most of their published work. They certainly do not disappoint with 'First Lady.' A fantastic follow-up novel to their collaborative work 'Madam President,' 'First Lady' ties up all the loose ends while still keeping the reader fully engaged.

Presidential biographer and fiancee, Lauren Strayer, plans her wedding day with help from the President's mother and social secretary. President Devlyn Marlowe and her bride-to-be deal with family issues (i.e., Lauren's father) and new relationship woes. They learn to trust each other more fully and redefine their life goals together. They also deal with outside forces such as Dev's children and the press.

This is a well-rounded story with a lot of depth and dimensionality. The characters are likable and the writing is elegant. I highly recommend it as permanent addition to your bookshelf.

Great story with amazing characters. Full of love,friendship,commitment and passion.Very well written and include very good situations. I recommend this book and other part also.

I enjoyed this book as much as the first one. I did not want the story to end. I enjoyed all the characters and the goofy Aunt was just priceless. I laughed at some of the situations of our main characters. All around for me a good read.

It was well worth the wait!!!! I finished it in one day!! The story was excellent. A wonderful book and a welcome addition to my collection.