S.E. Isaac's First Comes Love… Then Denial is a contemporary romance novel that delves into the complexities of love, commitment, and self-discovery. With its intriguing premise and relatable characters, the book offers a fresh take on the age-old question of whether love is a choice or a destiny. Through the lives of Candice Delaney and Zane Hanson, Isaac crafts a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

At the heart of the story is Candice Delaney, a woman who has long since given up on the notion of love. Her philosophy is simple: love is for the foolish, and she is anything but. Candice's character is well-developed, with a backstory that explains her reluctance to embrace love. Her past experiences have shaped her into a person who lives in the moment, avoiding any form of commitment. This makes her a compelling protagonist, as readers can easily empathize with her fears and reservations.

On the other hand, we have Zane Hanson, a successful businessman who seemingly has it all. His life is a stark contrast to Candice's, as he enjoys the fruits of his labor and the luxury of time. Zane's character is initially portrayed as someone who is content with his achievements, but his encounter with Candice at a New Year's Eve party sets off a chain of events that challenge his perceptions of happiness and fulfillment. The chemistry between Candice and Zane is palpable, and Isaac does a commendable job of building tension and anticipation throughout their interactions.

The theme of fate versus free will is central to the narrative. Candice's attempts to outrun fate and her eventual confrontation with love highlight the internal struggle many face when dealing with matters of the heart. Isaac explores this theme with nuance, allowing readers to ponder whether love is something that can be controlled or if it is an inevitable force that shapes our lives. This exploration is reminiscent of works by authors like Nicholas Sparks, who often delve into the unpredictability of love and destiny.

Another significant theme in the book is the idea of self-discovery. Both Candice and Zane undergo personal transformations as they navigate their feelings for each other. Candice's journey is particularly poignant, as she learns to confront her fears and open herself up to the possibility of love. Zane, too, experiences growth as he realizes that success and material wealth are not the only measures of a fulfilling life. Their individual journeys are well-crafted and add depth to the overall narrative.

Isaac's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to become immersed in the story. The dialogue is sharp and witty, capturing the essence of the characters' personalities. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, with moments of introspection interspersed with scenes of romantic tension and humor. This balance keeps the reader invested in the characters' journeys and eager to see how their story unfolds.

In comparison to other contemporary romance novels, First Comes Love… Then Denial stands out for its realistic portrayal of love and relationships. While many romance novels tend to idealize love, Isaac presents it as a complex and multifaceted experience. This realism is reminiscent of Jojo Moyes' work, where characters are often faced with difficult choices and must navigate the intricacies of human emotions.

One of the strengths of the novel is its ability to resonate with readers on a personal level. Many will find themselves relating to Candice's skepticism about love or Zane's realization that success is not synonymous with happiness. These relatable themes make the book not only an enjoyable read but also a reflective one.

However, the novel is not without its shortcomings. Some readers may find the plot predictable, as it follows a familiar trajectory of two seemingly opposite characters finding common ground and ultimately falling in love. While this predictability does not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book, it may not appeal to those seeking a more unconventional romance narrative.

In conclusion, First Comes Love… Then Denial is a captivating exploration of love, fate, and self-discovery. S.E. Isaac has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with well-developed characters and relatable themes. While it may follow a familiar romance formula, the novel's realistic portrayal of love and its challenges sets it apart from others in the genre. For readers who enjoy contemporary romance with a touch of introspection, this book is a worthwhile addition to their reading list.