Millie Perez's You Never Forget Your First is a compelling exploration of love, identity, and the complexities of family dynamics. Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City and the picturesque Berkshires, the novel deftly navigates the emotional landscape of a first-generation American grappling with personal loss and the expectations of her cultural heritage. Perez crafts a narrative that is both heartwarming and suspenseful, offering readers a rich tapestry of themes and character development.

At the heart of the story is Amelia Nuñez, a character whose journey is both relatable and inspiring. Having endured the dual blows of losing her mother and a broken engagement, Amelia is a portrait of resilience. Her decision to face her judgmental Latino family during the holiday season as a single woman nearing thirty is a testament to her courage and determination to reclaim her life. Perez skillfully portrays Amelia's internal struggle, capturing the nuances of her identity as a first-generation American daughter of Dominican immigrants. This cultural backdrop adds depth to Amelia's character, making her journey not just a personal one, but also a reflection of the immigrant experience.

The introduction of Evan Cooper, Amelia's childhood crush and her brother's best friend, adds a layer of romantic tension that is both engaging and complex. Evan, a tech mogul on the brink of billionaire status, is a character who embodies ambition and success. Yet, his return to the city and his determination to pursue Amelia reveal a vulnerability that makes him more than just a stereotypical wealthy love interest. Perez does an excellent job of developing Evan's character, allowing readers to see beyond his exterior and understand his motivations and desires.

The chemistry between Amelia and Evan is palpable, and Perez captures the push and pull of their relationship with finesse. Amelia's transformation from a girl with a crush to a woman who can hold her own is a central theme of the novel. Her interactions with Evan are not just about rekindling a past attraction but are also about asserting her newfound independence and strength. This dynamic is refreshing and adds depth to their relationship, making it more than just a typical romantic subplot.

One of the standout aspects of You Never Forget Your First is its exploration of family and community. The group of immigrant Latino doctors and their families, whom Amelia considers her surrogate family, provide a rich tapestry of characters that add warmth and humor to the narrative. Perez captures the essence of Latino family gatherings with authenticity, from the lively conversations to the inevitable chisme (gossip) that Amelia fears. This portrayal of family is both affectionate and realistic, highlighting the support and pressure that come with being part of a close-knit community.

The novel also delves into themes of identity and belonging. Amelia's struggle to balance her American identity with her Dominican heritage is a recurring motif that resonates with many first-generation immigrants. Perez handles this theme with sensitivity, allowing Amelia's experiences to speak to the broader challenges of navigating multiple cultural identities. This aspect of the novel adds a layer of depth that elevates it beyond a simple romantic narrative.

In terms of suspense, Perez introduces an intriguing subplot involving a mysterious figure who has been watching Amelia and Evan. This element of mystery adds a thrilling dimension to the story, keeping readers on edge as they wonder about the intentions of this unknown character. The suspense is well-paced, and Perez skillfully weaves it into the main narrative, ensuring that it enhances rather than detracts from the central themes of love and identity.

Comparatively, You Never Forget Your First shares thematic similarities with works by authors like Elizabeth Acevedo and Angie Cruz, who also explore the complexities of the immigrant experience and the search for identity. However, Perez's novel stands out for its unique blend of romance, family drama, and suspense, offering a fresh take on these familiar themes.

Overall, You Never Forget Your First is a beautifully crafted novel that offers a poignant exploration of love, identity, and family. Millie Perez's ability to create relatable characters and weave together multiple themes makes this book a standout in contemporary fiction. Whether you're drawn to stories of romance, cultural identity, or family dynamics, this novel has something to offer. It's a testament to the idea that while you may never forget your first love, it's the journey of self-discovery and the connections you forge along the way that truly define you.