10 Must Read Second Chance Romances!

It's no secret that second chance romance is one of my top 3 favorite tropes. There is just something about a couple returning to each other years later, and finding their happily ever after together. Let's just say it's the romantic in me.

There were a couple of books that I wanted to put on this list, but they were the second half of duets. Therefore you'd have to read book one to get to the second chance romance in book two. If you're curious about what those recommendations were, well they are: The Love Duet by Xavier Neal, Next Life Duet by Brit Benson, and the Blood and Bone duet by Paula Dombrowiak. All three are fantastic, and I highly recommend them.

I'm not here to talk about duets though. Let's talk about the standalone romance novels that I think you should read. (full disclosure: these are standalones, but they are part of larger interconnected series.)

There are some authors who I could reference multiple times, but I'm going to do my best not to repeat. Well except for one time. But they are from different series, so I'm calling it good.

Do you read second chance romances? Any favorites? Have you read any of the books I'm about to mention? If you don't like the second chance trope, why not? I'm just curious. I know we all have our preferred tropes.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Southern Sunrise by Natasha Madison

I was absolutely smitten with Ethan and Emily's story. These two were high school sweethearts, but then something happened, and Ethan left to join the military. He's back now, and he ran into Emily at his mom's house. Or rather what was his mom's house. This book had me crying, laughing, swooning, and not wanting it to end. There was just something about getting to see Ethan all grown up, and falling in love that I just could not get enough of. Life hasn't been easy, but his sunrise is near, and he's determined to win her back.

Rules for Dating Your Ex by Piper Rayne

Sedona Bailey's story was one of my favorites of the series! We had watched this relationship happen throughout the series, and to finally get this was just perfect. Sedona and Jamison had been high school sweethearts. They moved away together when he became a professional soccer (football) player. Things had been going great, until they weren't. It was that difficult time when Sedona fled back to Lake Starlight. Her family welcomed her home, helped her through the heartbreak, and was by her side when Jamison reappeared. Don't worry there is no need to read the previous books in the series, but if you want to it's a fun read. This book was a quick read, it was emotional, and it had me loving this family even more. 

Making Spirits Bright by Aven Ellis

It is no secret that I am a big fan of Aven's storytelling. Jack and Aoife had been introduced in Connectivity 2.0, and we heard all about what went down in their relationship. We heard about the heartache, and learned why Aoife has the trust issues that she does. Making Spirits Bright is their second chance, and oh what a story it was. Now personally this one moved a bit slower for me than I'm used to, but it didn't detract from my enjoyment. Getting to watch these two reconnect, heal, and grow was just wonderful. Aven continues to blow me away with her books.

Mine to Have by Natasha Madison

Mine to Have is the first book in the Southern Wedding series, and it was fantastic. Yes there is a prequel called Mine to Kiss, and for the full effect you should read that first. Especially since it tells how Harlow and Travis met, fell in love, and ultimately broke up. Mine to Have is their reunion, and I could not put it down. This was my favorite of the series (thus far), and a lot of that had to do with the fact that it was a spin off of the Southern series. So I was familiar with Harlow. LOVE LOVE LOVE this book.

Missing Maverick by Anna Brooks

Oh Maverick! Snippets of his story were shared in the previous two Ryder Ranch books, but this is all about him and Cricket. She's returning home, and things are about to steam up. Well that is if forgiveness can happen. The heartache was strong, as was the feeling of abandonment. 

Never Too Late by Rue Lennox

Oh Rue...the ride you took me on with this book was good. Jake and Margot/Lilly have known each other for many years. They had a brief relationship in which hearts were shattered, and Lilly ran. Now she's back, and having to work near Jake on a frequent basis. Jake is determined to win her back, and keep her safe. The relationship happened fast in this book, so the storyline is really more about the suspense element, and that was intense. This was a binge read for me, and that's how it usually is when I read Rue's stories. Pack your bags, and head to Birch Maine to meet these characters. I'm sure you'll fall in love.

Saving Cate by Ellie Masters

I can't even fully put this book into words. Cate is a wilderness guide, and lives in a small town. Her ex, Caleb, is in the military and things did not end well between the two of them. Well now he's back, and he hears about some trouble. He is determined to protect Cate, and hopefully win her back. This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. The suspense element was delightful, and I could not put the book down. Highly recommend books by Ellie Masters whether they are second chance or not.

The Trailblazer by Gina Azzi

I LOVE THE BOSTON HAWKS! This is the series that hooked me on Gina Azzi's writing, and has since caused me to read the majority of her backlist. (as well as staying on top of current releases.) The Trailblazer is all about Declan and Vivi. Vivi's grandpa has recently passed away, and in order for her to receive her inheritance she must marry. Henry is who she said she'd marry, yet on her wedding day she spots the man who broke her heart all those years ago. This freaking book had me BAWLING toward the end. So many emotions were felt, and I was fully immersed in the story. If you're a hockey romance fan, grab this one.

Vegas Aces: The Wide Receiver by Lisa Suzanne

Well would you look at that - a series is on my list. Not just any series though, oh no this is Tristan and Tessa's story. Yes it encompasses all 5 books. Yes there are 4 cliffhangers. Yes it is a wild ride. Yes it has emotional moments. Yes there are secrets. Yes there is drama. Yes it is small town at times. Yes it is steamy. Yes you'll fall for these two. Tristan and Tessa were neighbors, and then they fell in love. One day Tessa upped and moved to live with her Aunt, and cut off all communication with Tristan. He knew nothing except she left him when he was planning forever. Now it's years later, she's returning home and he's home for the offseason. Sparks are about to fly.

Wild About You by Rebecca Jenshak

Yep, another hockey romance made my list. I regret nothing. Heck this entire list probably could have been hockey related, so be thankful it's only two books that I'm featuring. Tyler and Piper have been broken up for 4 years now. He's a rookie with the Wildcats, and Piper is working at the nearby high school. Piper also happens to interact with Everly. Everly just moved in with her big brother (Tyler) after some issues back home in Iowa. It is a meeting about Everly that puts Tyler and Piper back on each other's radar. This relationship is one of my favorites of the Wildcat Hockey series. Rebecca Jenshak writes these amazing stories that are enjoyable, with relatable characters, and feature a bit of emotion. I can't get enough.

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Thank you!

What I Read Last Week

Hello April!

This last week I had a spectacular week. So many wonderful books read, characters met, settings visited. I swooned, I laughed, I cried, I wanted to throw my kindle, and I loved every single moment of it. There were also so many fantastic tropes: enemies to lovers, small town, sports, second chance, age gap, college, single dad, surprise pregnancy, plus so many others. LOVED IT!

Last week I read 9, yes I said 9, books. That's ridiculous I know. I will say that I read two on Saturday, and I regret nothing. Also I had started The Edge of Forgiveness last Sunday, and finished it on Monday, so I had a jump start. Of the nine books that I read, five of them were advanced copies. The other four were either recent purchases due to TikTok, or freebies from the stock your kindle event, or just ones that were already on my kindle. 

Tell me about your week. What did you read? Any favorites? Any that you just didn't vibe with? Any recommendations for me? Have you ever read a book that TikTok recommended? I read two this week, and one I absolutely loved, while the other was just so so.

Happy Reading,
Laura

 The Edge of Forgiveness by Kristin Turnage

I'm not going to say much here as I devoted an entire post to TEOF. Hunter and Courtney's story was wonderful. It was emotional. It was intense at times. There is so much pain and heartache. There is also healing and understanding. There is family found, and a forever beginning. Could not put this book down. *please note there is no preorder for this book yet. I have linked to the author's amazon page.

Guarding Georgia by Anna Brooks

I forgot how much I enjoy books by Anna Brooks. When I started reading Guarding Georgia it all came flooding back. Of course I think the fact that this book takes place in Warrensville plays a part. After all that is where I met, and fell, for the Ryder family. Guarding Georgia was full of romance, and I loved the second chance trope in this book. Now I will be honest I struggled with everything that happened with Georgia's Dad, as well as with Tad. I was not fully prepared for that. Yet I was able to get through that with the relationship between Beau and Georgia. Plus there was Beau's family that I also adored. Also, Georgia's mom and that storyline? YES! I will definitely be returning for more of the Small Town Saviors series.

Made for Us by Natasha Madison

Natasha Madison did it again. She wrote this story that pulled m in, had me falling for the characters, and has me wanting to live in this world. I need the Grant/Horton/Stone+ family to adopt me, or at least befriend me. PLEASE! Abigail and Tristan's story was good. I loved the bond that Abigail has with Penelope, aka Tristan's daughter. That  bond was formed years ago, and it continues to remain strong. The attraction between Tristan and Abigail was good also. It's been building, enhancing, and is difficult to ignore. All it takes is a vacation for things to ramp up, and act upon needs. Of course that one night together lead to so much more. Made For Us was filled with heartache, frustration, longing, desire, and so much reality mixed in. Tristan was replaying things in his past, while Abigail was trying to figure things out and protect herself. She had imagined one thing, while he was imagining forever. Made For Us was a really good story. I loved the family interaction, the family vacation, and the bond that is there. The Grant/Horton/Stone+ family takes their friends under their wings and adds them to the mix. They've essentially adopted those who mean the world to them. I also love how the family isn't afraid to call their other family members out for their behavior/actions. Every time I finish a book, by Natasha, I find myself getting even more excited for the next. Her storytelling and characters are amazing.

Rule Number Five by J Wilder

TikTok made me read it. Seriously. Rule Number Five popped up so many times on my FYP that I downloaded it. I read it that same day, and absolutely LOVED this book. I highlighted so many quotes/scenes, and I regret nothing. This has me wanting to read more from J Wilder. The premise is simple: 2 college students meet at a bar, things are going great until she reveals her rules and he says he's a hockey player, she declines any advances because he's a hockey player, the chase is on as rules are meant to be broken, attraction, proximity, forever. While the premise is simple and standard it is the scenes (and lines) in this book that had me hooked. “You don’t wear anyone’s number but mine.” “If I can’t have forever, please don’t take away right now.” I went into a little more detail over on Goodreads if you'd like to read more of my review.

Kellan by Anna Blakely

This book took me by surprise. It had been sitting on my kindle for a while now, and I decided to give it a go. First things first, this book should have had a trigger/content warning. The prologue, what happened between Mia and her husband, I wasn't ready for it. If I'm going to be reading a book that kicks off with violence against a spouse, I want to be notified of that first so that I can prepare myself for what is going to play out.  Now obviously I continued reading, and I worked through those tough scenes that occurred. When Mia met Kellan that was when things really picked up suspense/action wise. That suspenseful storyline was what kept me reading the book. The relationship between Mia and Kellan it was good, but it was way too insta-love. Them falling was at warp speed. I get that forced proximity might have played a part, but it was too quick (for me). I went back and forth on my rating. My initial thought was 4 stars because of the suspense/action. Then as I sat with it a bit more I realized that it's more of a 3. The rapid instalove and lack of content/trigger warning is what pushed me back. I do want to continue with this series though.

Hardball by Lisa Suzanne

It's over. Cooper and Gabby's story is complete. I don't know how to move on quite yet. There was so much that happened in this book, and I adored the majority of it. I wanted to smack Troy. I wanted to shake Cooper. I wanted to hug Gabby. I found myself wanting to yell. There was so much pain and heartache in this final installment. UGH! Yet at the end of the day the right thing was done, a forever was put into the works, and the family was growing. I was proud of Cooper when he said what he said. Loved this entire series. I do still have questions though as I feel like a couple of storylines were not wrapped up, but it is what it is. I did like the setup for the next season though! Also I would love it if we could get a separate book about Troy and Joanie.

Playboy Playmaker by Maren Moore

It's the final book in the Totally Pucked series! I'm not okay with this. Not at all. Hudson's story just felt full circle in a way. Especially with Chaney being, well, Chaney. Plus all the guys being around. It was a good way to wrap things up. I fully admit that I binge read this book. The moment it arrived on my kindle, I was fully invested. I've been tortured with teasers for a bit now, and so to finally be able to dive into the book was just needed. I'm all for this secret, forbidden, age gap romance. Caroline could not be a better partner for Hudson. Add in that bit of proximity, and it just gave their relationship (that wasn't a relationship) that much more room to build. Playboy Playmaker is HOT. Hudson has a mouth on him, and oofta! I may have blushed once or twice. When their relationship (that wasn't a relationship) became public I was worried for them both. I wasn't certain how other parties would handle this news. Heck I wasn't certain how our characters would handle the news. Thankfully it all worked out in the end.  There was another relationship starting in this book though too. With the volunteer position that Hudson took on, he met Wren. This young man needed someone in his corner, and Hudson stepped up. Hudson stepped into that parent role easily, and let Wren know that this was a safe space to land. That he would be there for him any time. Wren found a family like atmosphere with Hudson and Caroline (and I'm sure with the entire Avalanche team). While I'm not ready to say goodbye to this cast of characters, I am ready to see what Maren has planned. Maren has a way with words, characters, and always brings the steam. I love escaping into her books, and look forward to the future.

Flawless by Elsie Silver

I wanted to love this book. Especially since I adored the Gold Rush Ranch series. Yet something was missing from Flawless. That same spark wasn't there. I found myself annoyed by Kip, and did not like any scene that he appeared in. I loved the protectiveness that Rhett offered. Sidney I didn't really "bond" with. She was a missed opportunity in a way. I did like the relationship and how that built. Honestly there were times that I was more interested in the bull riding scenes than the rest of the book. I am ready to return to Chestnut Springs though, especially since the other brothers have caught my attention.

That One Night by Emily Rath

I had recently purchased Pucking Around by Emily Rath, and I noticed it said to read That One Night first. So I did. There is very little plot to this story. It's mostly steam. Plus it ends on a cliffhanger. You had better believe I'm jumping into Pucking Around asap! TikTok has been recommending this book constantly, and I need to see what happens after this novella. I'll be honest, the female main character isn't my favorite, but I'm still intrigued.

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

Thank you to the authors who provided me with advanced copies of their books.
(Kristin Turnage, Maren Moore, Anna Brooks, Natasha Madison, Lisa Suzanne)

These books were ALMOST 5 star reads

Yesterday I had shared the books I've rated 5 stars in 2023. I thought it would be interesting to see which books were ALMOST 5 stars. The books that I loved so much but were just missing that little something extra to give it that push to 5 stars. These stories captivated me. I fell for the characters. I immersed myself into the worlds. When the stories ended I definitely suffered from book hangovers.

I tell ya those book hangovers were intense. Some were stronger, and longer lasting, than others, but each made an impact. I would gladly return to these settings, and these characters. You know, if I was a re-reader.

What are the seven books that were almost 5 star reads?  Let's take a look.

Bent by Rue Lennox 

Listen I love Rue's writing, and the characters that are brought to life. The suspense that she adds into these books of hers are just amazing. So when reading Bent it was no different. We had these great characters, a enjoyable storyline, and spectacular suspense. All that with a happily ever after. So why wasn't it a 5 star? Honestly it was Avery and her stubbornness, her actions...I just couldn't fully connect. That doesn't mean that I didn't like her. I definitely sympathized with everything that happened. It was just a little something that was off, and so that held me back.

Bad Boy's Downfall by Gina Azzi

I LOVE the Thunderbolts. LOVE THEM. I had been anticipating this book since reading Brawler's Weakness. Knowing that Lola was getting her happily ever after, and the fact that it would involve one of her dad's teammates - it was just too good. River and Lola's relationship tugged on the heartstrings, hit me in the emotions, and I was waiting for Axel's reaction (which did not disappoint). Why 4.5 stars instead of 5? It came down to River and Lola. In this book they felt different from the characters we had come to know in previous books in the series. There was this shift, and it felt as though they were being held back, or just not as intense/dramatic/sincere as they should have been. Again it's this minor thing that had me realizing it wasn't a strong 5, but it also wasn't a 4, so I went in the middle.

Devious Obsession by S Massery

First things first, this book was such a trip. Steele is an intense man, and he found the perfect person to fall for. It's as though Aspen was made for him. Seriously. This book took us on such a journey, and I couldn't put it down. Now when it comes to the rating, this one is easier to explain, and I mentioned in my review of the book. My rating choice all came down to Steele's online activities, and one specific scene in the book. In all honesty I probably could have given it 5 if it had just been one of those reasons. That combination of the two though, had me realizing that I couldn't do it. My gut said no. Doesn't change my love of the book though.

Reclaiming Brave by Gina Azzi

Denver and Sierra were my favorite couple of this trilogy! Their story just hit a bit harder, and I felt this connection to the two of them. It was so opposites attract that I couldn't help but love it. Then add in the best friend's sibling trope, and it just heightened everything. My reasoning on the rating honestly came down to the fact that there were still questions that went unanswered. Those certain storylines throughout the trilogy that just had no closure. I don't like it when that happens in books, and so it does affect my rating.

Defensive Hearts by Alley Ciz

Chance, Gemma, and those dogs...I tell ya! Defensive Hearts had me laughing, I was swooning, and I wanted to knock some sense into our characters. Here's the thing that rubbed me wrong, and kind of had me wavering on my rating - Chance's reaction to that photo, and the words that spewed out of his mouth. That just put such a damper on it. I could not get over that situation. Maybe I'm being too nit picky, but I don't think so.

Made for You by Natasha Madison

Natasha Madison and her hockey romances bring me so much joy. There has not been a single one that I have not loved. It just makes sense that Xavier and Vivi continue on with that trend. Then there's the fact that Matthew Grant was there, and he brought his over the top ways into every scene. He just brings me such happiness. Let's get into what happened that I wouldn't give it 5 stars. It comes down to Xavier. Xavier changed his tune way too quickly (hate/enemies to lovers). I didn't necessarily know if his attraction to Vivi was authentic or opportunistic. I feel horrible saying that. Yet it was something that lived in my head while reading. A smaller part that affected the rating was the Grant/Horton/Stone family. I hate saying that because I love them. There was just too much of them in this book. 

The Owner by Xavier Neal

The Owner showed me what I've been unknowingly missing from other hockey romances. The chirping. The hockey lingo. I freaking loved that, and I talked about it in my review. However as much as I loved that, it also distracted a bit. Between the lingo (where I needed a glossary), and certain moments with Harper it just had me feeling 4.5 stars. Again not a 4, but not a 5 either. It's right in that sweet spot.

See I told you that my reasonings are minuscule, and not necessarily something that others would dock for. Yet I know, for me, I made the right choice. Also these books that I mentioned are some of my favorite reads of 2023 so far.  I've recommended all of these books numerous times on social media, and I stand by my ratings.

What are some books that you went back and forth on with ratings? If you've read any of the books I mentioned, how did you rate them? Were they 5 stars? 4? 4.5? Less than 4? I'm curious.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

Book Recommendation Tag

As I was scrolling through booktube, I came across a video from Novel Life. They were doing a new book tag called Book Recommendations. As I watched the video I liked what I was seeing, and then went to watch the video from the person who originated the tag. Steph Bohrer's video was also really good. I loved all the different books both of these individuals recommended. Have I read a lot of those books? No, but I still wrote down some titles to check out.

After watching both of those videos, I decided to bring the tag here to my blog.  I'd love to know how you would answer these questions. Especially since I am always open to new books recommendations.

Happy Reading,
Laura

5 of my Favorite Fictional Characters

It takes a lot for a character to stand out for me. I need them to grab hold of my attention, and wish for more of their story, or wish to see them appear as major side characters in future books in the series. I want to celebrate their happy moments, I want to cry with them during their sad moments, and I want to be by their side during the difficult times. When that happens these are often the characters that I wish I could befriend in their fictional worlds.

I read a lot of books. A LOT. Therefore choosing favorites is always a difficult task. However there are some characters that stand out more than others. It's these characters who are just screaming "I'm your favorite", and "don't you forget about me". Believe me when I say there are quite a few that stand out. Today though I'm only going to share five of them. Maybe I'll revisit this in the future and do a secondary post. Time will tell.

Who are some of your favorite characters? Any specific reason they stand out?

Happy Reading,
Laura