Book Review: The Night We First Met by Clare Swatman

Sometimes the briefest encounters leave the biggest marks.

The Night We First Met is a love story shaped by chance, timing, and the quiet weight of a single moment. When two strangers cross paths unexpectedly, that fleeting encounter leaves a lasting imprint on both their lives. As the years go by, their paths diverge, but that one night lingers in memory — influencing their choices, relationships, and the “what ifs” that follow. It’s a reflective, emotional story about fate, connection, and missed chances.

I really liked this book. The characters felt real and relatable, and the story was easy to read — even though at some points, it was emotionally hard to get through (in the best way). It deals with some heavier feelings, but still keeps you turning the pages without feeling overwhelming.

The way Marianne and Ted's lives connect and drift apart feels so natural, like you’re growing up with them and wondering if destiny will ever bring them back together. It's one of those stories that stays with you long after you finish the last page.

If you're looking for an emotional, thoughtful read that’s still easy to sink into, this is a great one to add to your list.

👉 Get "The Night We First Met" on Amazon