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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Brother's Best Friend Hockey Romance Recommendations

I feel like a broken record when it comes to the brother's best friend trope, but it truly is one of my top 3 favorite tropes. I can't help it. It's just so good. Plus I think a lot of people have their favorite tropes, so why not lean into it a bit.

Now when I posted my Brother's Best Friend Romance recommendations post the other day, I had mentioned that I could probably do an entire post just based on hockey. So here I am. 

I went through all of the hockey romances that I have read, with the exception of a few where tropes weren't crystal clear (ahem: Aven Ellis), and compiled a list. Turns out I have read 12 that feature the brother's best friend, or best friend's sibling, trope. Three of these I mentioned in my other post, therefore I won't repeat what I said about those. I will however still list them. 

What is your favorite trope? Or are you like me and have a top 3? Also, have you read any of these hockey romances? Any books that I should read? I'd love to know all the things.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Let's start with the three books I had previously mentioned. They were:

The Risk Taker by Gina Azzi

Something So Irresistible by Natasha Madison

Maxim by Samantha Whiskey

Now for the new recommendations!

Wheeler by Samantha Whiskey

I loved the Seattle Sharks series from Samantha Whiskey! I cannot think of a single book that I didn't enjoy. So many various tropes, and the characters were all amazing. Lukas and Faith's story was no different. Lukas hired Faith as his personal assistant after her brother suggested it. Well Lukas has had a thing for Faith for a while now, and this is going to make working in such close proximity interesting.  The goal is to keep things platonic and maintain that friendship. Well that is until the sparks fly.

Change on the Fly by Maren Moore

Change on the Fly was an emotional read. Not necessarily because of the relationship between Reed and Holland, but because of the situation with Reed's nephew. That storyline gutted me. But witnessing Holland assist Reed with caring for Evan was everything. Then Reed stepping up and taking care of the issues Holland was having as well? Yep, so good. Reed is a protector through and through, and this story just solidified that. These two characters pulled me, and I loved getting to know them, as well as all of the friends and family.

Sneaking Around with #34 by Piper Rayne

Oh Warner! This man has quite the past, and he tried to keep his upbringing a secret. Part of his past has to do with Imogen. Who is Imogen you ask? Ford's sister. Yes the same Ford who Warner is now teamed up with. This second chance romance was my favorite of the Hockey Hotties series. I loved how we learned about the past, how it was affecting the present (relationship/teamwork with Ford & Warner), and then witnessing the happily ever after in progress. This book had it's emotional moments, it's tense moments, and some passionate ones as well. 

Scoring to Win Duet by Maren Moore
The Scorecard & The Final Score

Oh what to say about this duet. Graham and Emery's story will take you through the wringer. Graham and Reed are good friends, and Reed is Emery's big brother. So things are tense in that situation. But when a night together leads to a pregnancy, their lives are about to flip upside down. Not only that, but they are now in a fake relationship. The problem with that is they don't get along. They are constantly butting heads. Yet somehow they end up falling. The Scorecard does end on a cliffhanger of sorts, so make sure to have The Final Score ready to go. Their story is going to take you on a ride. It will be emotional. You will want to smack one or both of them upside their fictional heads. Yet at the same time you may just fall for this couple, and find yourself cheering them on as they get their happily ever after.

Cross Checked Hearts by Cali Melle

Cross Checked Hearts is the very first book in the Wyncote Wolves series from Cali Melle. What better way to kick off a series than with the brother's best friend trope! Or maybe that's just my opinion. Anyway, Logan and Isla have known each other for years. That goes to show how far back Logan and August go. Now though Isla is starting college, and her brother is having her move into the apartment he shares with Logan. Surely nothing will happen with these two living in the same space. No way will they act on any feelings. Yeah right, of course they will. 

Splintered Ice by Cali Melle

Splintered Ice is the sixth book in the Wyncote Wolves series, and we are revisiting the trope! Except this time it is Sterling falling for his sister's best friend. Olivia just transferred to Wyncote, and she knows no one. So her bestie contacted Sterling, and told him to make sure Olivia has a good time, and finds some friends. Olivia's had a crush on Sterling for a while now, and all this time together might just cause the friendship to blur a bit. Even if Sterling thinks he should avoid at all costs. After all that crush might not be so one-sided. 

Covered by Elise Faber

If you know me at all you know that I am OBSESSED with the Gold Hockey team. It is seriously one of my favorite hockey series, and I will devour every book that is released. I will also devour every spin off (see: Rush Hockey). Ben is falling for his best friend's sister. Jordyn is a recently single mom, and Ben is stepping in to help her out. After all that single mom aspect is something he's familiar with, since it's how he grew up. I loved their relationship. I loved how the team surrounded Jordyn with love and community. Then there is Jordyn's kids who were adorable. One of my favorites from the series.

Bad Crush by Rebecca Jenshak

Oh look it's another college romance! This was my introduction to Rebecca Jenshak's storytelling, and it hooked me. Adam and Reagan's story tugged at my heartstrings. I went through a variety of emotions. I loved the setting, I loved the characters, and everything that happened in the book. Reagan falling for Ginny's big brother was so good.

Charming As Puck by Pippa Grant

This is the fourth book in the Copper Valley Thrusters series from Pippa Grant. If you're unfamiliar with Pippa's writing style, it is pure rom-com. The male characters are always an interesting group, and the females are typically smart, strong, and independent. It's a unique mix to say the least. Now it's been a few years since I've read this book so I can't remember much about it. What i do remember is that it was funny, it had a good storyline, and I put on Goodreads that it was my favorite of the series. Also when it comes to the trope, it's actually a version of that trope. Our heroine is falling for her best friend's brother. I always love how the best friend reacts, and the majority of the time I feel that they are all for it. 

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I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

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

Thank you!

10 of My Favorite Brother's Best Friend Romances

It should come as no surprise that I ADORE the Brother's Best Friend (and/or sister's best friend) trope. I've spoken about that before. Maybe it goes back to the fact that I grew up with two older brothers, and had a crush on a few of their friends way back then. That could play a small part in it. Maybe. No matter what though I'm obsessed and I find myself gravitating toward those stories. I think another part of it is similar to the friends to lovers trope. It's this person that you know, that you see on the regular, and an attraction just builds, or has the potential to build.

As brother's best friend is one of my top three favorite tropes I figured I'd share a few recommendations. Those that I selected are 10 of my favorite books that feature this trope. Of course there are other tropes that these books fall into as well, but I selected them for the brother's best friend trope. (psst: one is actually a sister's best friend book.) Be proud of me, I only shared 3 hockey romances. In all reality I could have probably had an entire post dedicated to hockey.

Have you read any of these titles? Do you have any recommendations for the brother's best friend trope? Fill me in on your favorites!

Happy Reading,
Laura

5 Football Romance Series You Should Read

With the "Big Game" quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to read some football romances!

If you know me at all, you know football isn't my first choice for sports romances. However I do still read them, and I have 5 series that I think you should read! You know, if you haven't already. I also want to mention that the majority of these recommendations do not have cliffhangers. I love a good standalone series where each book focuses on a different couple! That being said, the Vegas Aces series is full of cliffhangers! Prepare yourself for that because they leave you wanting. But also loving the characters.

The Playbook by Alexa Martin

Number of books: 4
Released: 2018-2020

Now I'm sure most people have read this series. If not though, I highly suggest you do! This series focuses on four different relationships. It's the meet cute, it's the adjusting to dating a professional athlete, it's the drama that ensues, the heartache, the reunion, and the ultimate fall. Each book gives you a happily ever after, and I loved all of them.

Raleigh Raptors by Samantha Whiskey

Number of Books: 3
Released: 2020

Samantha Whiskey writes some wonderful sports romances. I fell for her hockey romance series, and when the Raleigh Raptors came out, I immediately read them. Now full disclosure; Nixon wasn't my favorite. I struggled with the storyline big time. I didn't vibe with Liberty at all, so that played a big part in it all. Roman and Hendrix though, loved those two stories. I am holding out hope that Samantha Whiskey will return with another addition to the series. That being said it has been over 2 years since Hendrix released, so I'm a little doubtful.

Denver Mountain Lions by Emily Silver

Number of books: 5
Released: 2022

This series features so many different tropes! From friends to lovers, to forbidden, to second chance romance, to enemies to lovers, to age gap, there is something for everyone. I fell hard for some of these players, as well as Emily Silver's storytelling. I cannot wait to read more from her. 

Kingsmen Football Stars by Piper Rayne

Number of books: 2.5
Released: 2022-present 

It's no secret that I'm a fan of Piper Rayne's small town romances. So when I heard about them branching off into football, I knew I'd have to give it a read. So far I've read the prequel, as well as You Had Your Chance, Lee Burrows. I will be reading Brady's story yet this month, and I cannot wait to dive into that single dad and the nanny romance. With Piper Rayne's books, you'll get a wonderful story, a bit of drama, a good dose of steam, and a happily ever after. You may also find yourself hoping other characters will get their story told.

Vegas Aces by Lisa Suzanne

Number of seasons: 4
Number of books: 20 (5 per season)
Released: 2021-present

In 2021 I read the first two seasons of the Vegas Aces, and I was hooked. Now here's the thing, you're going to want to read these books in order. You learn things in season one that carry over to season two, and then onto season three. I will say season four is a bit different, but it still helps to have the knowledge of previous seasons in your head. Luke Dalton kicks things off with his story, and our introduction to Ellie is one you won't forget. Jack Dalton is up next, and I went from hating this man to falling for him. Ben Olson is featured in season 3, and that was by far my favorite season. Tristan Higgans is up in season 4, and a familiar face appears (and attempts to mess things up). One thing I love about these seasons is that there is always a villain you love to hate. Each season has at least one, and I'm here for it. I cannot wait to see who the villain is in season 5. (and yes, season 5 is happening later in 2023.) Prepare yourself to swoon, laugh, cry, and want to throw your kindle.

There was one other series that I wanted to recommend, but I really wanted to keep my list at 5. So instead I'll list it as a bonus recommendation. That series is The Lone Stars by Katie Graykowski. There are seven books in this series, and I enjoyed so many of them. I remember tearing up at a few, swooning over a couple, and falling hard for a few players. If you're looking for a lesser known series, then check that one out too. The first book was published in 2013, and the last in 2021. The first six are offered with Kindle Unlimited, so if you have a KU subscription consider downloading one of the titles.

Have you read any of these series? Do you have any recommendations for me? I'm always up for another sports romance to read.

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!

7 Must Read Small Town Romance Series

Small town romances are one of my favorite tropes. We are talking top 5 level favorites. In my mind, it just gives off the Hallmark movie vibes, and I am here for it. You know exactly what I’m talking about too. I’m positive of it. 

Now, would I ever live in a small town? I absolutely would! Well that is if I were to ever move from my current location. There is just something about a small town that appeals to me. From the potential community events, to the size of the town, to the gossip possibilities, it all calls to me. Especially the knowing of your neighbors, and that community feel. I may be an introvert with social anxiety, but the desire for a community is strong. I do blame Hallmark and Lifetime movies for creating this built up image in my head though.

If you are like me, and enjoy small town romances, then I have some book recommendations for you! I’ll tell you now, ALL of my recommendations are for series, so I apologize. At the same time, you’re welcome, and I hope you love the settings as much as I do. 

Let’s dive in.

Southern by Natasha Madison

This series is absolutely fabulous, and one of my favorites. There are 8 books in the series, and while you don’t HAVE  to read them in order, I highly suggest that you do. Location for the book series is obviously the south. I believe it is in Texas. The Southern series begins with Kallie and Jacob. They were high school sweethearts with their eyes set on the future. Until Prom night happens and their world shatters apart. What happened that night had Kallie fleeing town, and not looking back. Now it’s years later, and she’s returning to town with her bestie Olivia. Olivia’s gotten herself into a bit of a situation, and so they are laying low in Kallie’s hometown. Upon returning to town, Kallie spots Jacob immediately. She can’t turn away. This second chance romance will draw you in, and it also happens to perfectly set the stage for Casey and Olivia’s story. (which is book 2)

Should you pick up Southern Chance, book one in the series, go into it with an open mind. Ignore the reviews on Goodreads, and just jump in. I will say that chances are high that you won’t like Savannah. You’ll see her as problematic, and may blame her a bit for what goes down. Again, go in with an open mind, and trust that you’ll learn her full story in Southern Storm. What I can tell you is that you’ll fall for Kallie’s parents. I adore them, and want to be a member of the family.

The Edge by Kristin Turnage

This young adult/new adult series is going to grab hold of you, having you falling for the characters, and wanting to find out more about Oaks North Carolina.

The Edge of Happiness was Kristin's debut novel, and for me, it was a 5 star read. I loved Cassie and Ryan’s story. It was emotional, it was heartbreaking, it was full of healing and growth, and we witnessed Cassie come into this friendship group where they loved and accepted her unconditionally. She was a part of their group, of this found family, and it was everything she needed.

The characters in this series? I FREAKING LOVE THEM! None of them have had an easy go with things, but as we delve into their stories, it just has me falling even harder. Kristin Turnage has released 3 books in this series, and each one has been a 5 star read for me. Kristin has this way of creating relatable characters, building this world where I would love to visit, and her storytelling is fantastic. I can’t get enough, and this is one of those series that i will recommend over and over again. If you are an emotional reader, then have the tissues handy. You'll need them. 

The Baileys by Piper Rayne

As if I could leave the Bailey family off my list! 

Please. It was March 2020 when I discovered this series, as well as Piper Rayne, and I was immediately drawn in. IMMEDIATELY I tell you. Lake Starlight is this adorable town in Alaska that I just picture as the quintessential small town. From the downtown, to the community knowing everything that happens with the Baileys, to the chaos that ensues. I just loved it.

So here’s the thing, there are 9 kids in the Bailey family. When Austin (he’s the oldest) was about to pursue his dream of being a professional athlete, his parents died in an accident. This had him returning home to become guardian of his siblings. To keep this family together, he gave up his dreams. Over time those dreams evolved, and he was willing to do what he needed to keep his family together. In Lessons from a One Night Stand we see how Austin and Holly meet, how a workplace romance is set to begin, and how their relationship brings on a bit of healing. Plus we get to meet all of the Baileys. Oh and there’s Grandma Dori who is a hoot. I love her shenanigans.

There are about 12 books in this series. It’s a lot I know. But each person has their own story, and then there are also 3 novellas. The books are all quick reads, they all have HEAs, they are steamy, they are rom-coms, and I highly recommend them.

The Greene Family by Piper Rayne

Oh like I could mention one Alaska family and not the other! The Greene Family series is a spinoff of the Bailey’s, and honestly you’ll see the Bailey’s make the occasional appearance in the books. Especially Grandma Dori who is always with Ethel, and Ethel just so happens to be the Grandma to all these Greene children. The Greene family has a bit of The Brady Bunch feel to it when it comes to how the family was formed. This is a blended family (yours, mine, ours), and with that comes a bit of added drama, emotions, angst, as well as healing.

Similar to the Bailey’s, each sibling has their own story. For the most part. Rylan’s story, he’s the youngest, we don’t get quite yet. That will come eventually, but for now we just have the parents story, as well as each of the older “kids”. In this series, you’ll get a wide variety tropes so there’s a little something for everyone.

In regards to the town, the way I have Sunrise Bay pictured just creates this atmosphere of community building, community events, and ease of getting around. Now how I have it pictured may be completely different than the Piper and Rayne have it envisioned, but I’m perfectly content with the town square image going on in my head.

Go read this series, but definitely read it after the Baileys. Trust me on that. Plus you’ll understand Dori and Ethel (as well as Midge) a bit better. Oh those Grandmas!

Ryder Ranch by Anna Brooks

Cowboys + Small town = GIVE ME!!

Ryder Ranch is a 4 book series set in the small town of Warrenville Texas. The Ryder family is comprised of Dad (Mack), and his four kids (Wilder, Hunter, Maverick, and Molly). Together they work the ranch, and are a constant in each others lives. They’ve all been hurt emotionally since the moment the kids mom walked away. Her leaving caused so much heartache, grief, and relationship problems that they all are still working through.

Hoping for Hunter kicks off this series, and our meet cute involves a cow. Yes, you read that right. It was that a little tidbit of info that had my curiosity piqued. How does a cow cause our couple to meet? That just doesn’t make sense. BUT once you start reading, you’ll understand. These Ryder men are all quite alpha, and a bit afraid of falling in love. So to watch each one topple is spectacular. This series brings on a few different tropes, from age gap, to grumpy/sunshine, to second chance, to opposites attract, but all the stories take place in the small town of Warrenville. Dad and the boys books are all part of this series, where as Molly’s story is part of Guarding Her series. The story of her and Brooks journey to a happily ever after is called Break. I haven’t read that one yet, but it is on my list.

Ryker Ranch by Kim Loraine

Now don’t get confused with this series title. I know it is VERY close to the Anna Brooks series I just mentioned, but they are different. Obviously.

The Ryker family lives in Montana, and their whole world is the family ranch. It’s an amazing property, and it employs a lot of people.However since Dad died they’ve been struggling financially. Those financial woes could be a thing of the past though if this reality TV show takes off. Now Clint just needs to take the jump, and not fall for the producer of the show.

This family has etched itself into my heart. I am a bit obsessed with them, and I regret nothing. I have adopted Mama Ryker as my second mom, and I would like to go stay with her for a few weeks. Her and Mama Barnes from the Southern series cannot be beat. These two matriarchs are phenomenal. Hands down. I aspire to be like them. Which also means I need to work on my cooking skills.

Anyway, this series set in small town Montana may have you wanting to live in that world. There’s just this strong community feeling, and you know you’ll have support there for you whenever you need it. There are currently 4 books, plus a novella, released, as well as a couple of spin-off titles. Trope wise we are talking opposites attract, forbidden, workplace, fake relationship, friends to lovers, surprise pregnancy, second chance, and a few others sprinkled in. Kim Loraine has created this setting, this community, that just feels like home. Then there are the storylines that pull you in, and have you wanting more from this cast of characters.

Pine Cove by Rebecca Gannon

This four book series is one that I discovered through Amazon Prime Reading. I devoured Her Maine Attraction, and immediately purchased the series. There was just something with the setting, with this group of friends, and with the potential relationships that had my attention.

The first book alone lured me in because this woman decided to just move to this coastal community where she knew no one, had no job, and was creating this fresh start for herself. Her Maine Attraction was a steamy, insta-love story, and I could not put it down. It is also in this first book where we meet Ally’s friends, and slowly but surely they too make the decision to relocate to Pine Cove. All of the love stories are filled with emotion, conflict, healing, self discovery, and finding of community.

If you’re looking for a quick, easy read, then consider checking this one out. I will say that I prefer the original covers (shown above) versus the updated covers, but that's just me.

My Top 3 Favorite Tropes

There are so many amazing romance books on the market just waiting to be read. When looking for new books, you might be searching by the sub-genre, and/or the trope that they fall into, or you may just be searching for your favorite author. No matter how you search for books, chances are you may have heard people talk about tropes. Tropes are a way to describe the plot of the story, or better yet it’s a representation of the character, setting, or storyline. It’s familiar. It’s known. When you know the trope, you will have a good idea of what will happen between the main characters. You know how they’ll fall in love, and potentially have their happily ever after.

There are many tropes that I adore. Some are definitely more preferred than others. That being said, it seems with a lot of books I am discovering I enjoy tropes that I thought I otherwise wouldn’t. So it’s been an interesting journey. But that’s a post for a different day.

Today I want to share my top 3 favorite tropes in the romance genre. I will even give you a few examples of books to go with it. Hey, if you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for book recommendations.

My Top 3, in no particular order, are:

1. Friends to Lovers

2. Best Friend’s Sibling

3. Second Chance Romance

Friends to Lovers

The name of the trope tells you exactly what you are getting. Our main characters have been friends for a good amount of time, and eventually they both want more in their friendship. They want romance. They want a partner. They want a happily ever after, and they see this person as their forever person.

So why is this one of my favorite tropes? Honestly, it comes down to the fact that it’s what a lot of people want, or a lot of people experience. Plus there is the history that you share with this person. You have these memories that you’ve created together as friends, and now you’re able to take it to the next chapter. You’re still friends, but there’s the added intimacy of the relationship now as well.

Here are a few books that I think you’d enjoy if you like the friends to lovers trope.

1. The Rule Maker by Gina Azzi

   Austin and Chloe were childhood friends, but were separated due to her family moving. Now that her family is back in town, and she’s gone through a recent breakup, these two friends reconnect.

2. Secrets of the World’s Worst Matchmaker by Piper Rayne
   Colton and Juno are best friends, and have been for a long time. Juno has a job as a matchmaker, and she had fixed Colton up with someone else. Now she’s regretting that choice, and is a bit heartbroken.

3. Restless Things by Samantha Lovelock

   Sunday and Payne have been friends since they were small children. They’ve been through a lot together, and know each other’s secrets. Now though, they are both starting to feel that pull towards wanting more. But yet they are fighting it. Or at least Sunday is. *note that this is book 3 in an on-going series. While it is the start of Sunday and Payne’s story, it is best that you start from the beginning with Fragile Things.

Best Friend’s Sibling

This trope is also known as Brother’s Best Friend, but sometimes there is a role reversal, so I like to change the wording ever so slightly. The Best Friend’s Sibling trope is just what it sounds like, one of our characters is falling for the brother or sister of their best friend. 

Now I can’t lie, when I was a teenager, I wanted this to happen. I wanted to fall for one of my brother’s friends, and I wanted it reciprocated. It is what it is. But that isn’t what happened in my life, and I am perfectly okay with that. I’m more than happy with my workplace romance. (which yes, is another trope.) I honestly think that teenage desire is what sparked my love of this trope. Plus it’s just such a Hallmark Movie waiting to happen. Ya know?

I have plenty of examples I could offer, but I’ll stick to three.

1. Gravity by KL Jessop

   Gray is best friends with Nora’s big brother. He has been fighting this attraction for years now. After all there is quite the age gap happening, and he’s worried about what others will think. Especially his best friend.

2. Southern Heart by Natasha Madison

   Mayson is suddenly in town, and arrives at his best friend’s house severely injured. When he arrives Chelsea is there taking care of the kids, and is scared out of her mind. But her medical training kicks in, and she ends up saving Mayson’s life. Ethan isn’t too sure about this relationship, and he really does not want his little sister with one of his friends.

3. Home Game by Lisa Suzanne

   Oh Luke and Ellie! Ellie has recently moved to Vegas after being fired from her previous job. The timing is perfect because her brother is about to get married. The night before the wedding, Ellie meets Luke, and they have a one night stand. Or what should be a one night stand. As Ellie quickly finds out, Luke is her brother’s best friend. Luke is also the guy who she’s about to move in with.

Second Chance Romance

This trope just pulls at my heartstrings. Our main characters have been in a relationship together previously, but something didn’t work out for various reasons. Now though, they’ve grown. They’ve changed. They haven’t forgotten the other person, and they want them back. And these stories tell us how they end up achieving their happily ever after.

I think the reason I enjoy the second chance romance trope so much is because most of us have been there. The relationship has ended, but you’re not ready for it to be done. You can still see yourself with the other person, and you’d love nothing more than to get back together with them. You feel that connection, and you can see them as your forever person. The other reason I enjoy it so much is because of Hallmark movies. I can’t lie, I freaking love those movies. The cheesier the better. What can I say, I just love a good happily ever after!

Here are three book recommendations for the Second Chance Romance trope.

1. Rules for Dating Your Ex by Piper Rayne

   Sedona and Jameson were high school sweethearts. They couldn’t imagine being without the other person. But when they moved to New York, something changed in their relationship. Feelings were hurt. Hearts were broken. Now Sedona has returned to Alaska, and she’s trying to mend her broken heart. It is going okay until the day that Jameson shows up.

2. Southern Chance by Natasha Madison

   Kallie and Jacob were deeply in love. They thought they would be together forever. That is until prom night when Jacob left with Savannah. That night, Kallie’s heart was shattered. Now it is many years later, and Kallie is returning home. Jacob is now the chief of police, and he will be impossible to avoid. Everyone in town knows their history. Now they will get to witness these two reconnect, but can they get their HEA?

3. Roped Tight by Kim Loraine

   Sam and Tucker met as teenagers. Sam was just starting to figure out who he is, and he was suddenly swept off his feet by Tucker. But Sam was having issues with it. He didn’t want his sexuality out there for others to know, and announcing he and Tucker were a thing would be doing just that. Tucker came to the Ryker Ranch to work as a ranch hand, and quickly became like family. He and Sam had an amazing night together, and then Sam left town. Now it’s years later, and Sam has returned to the ranch. These two are about to have the opportunity for a second chance, but will they take it?

There you have it friends, those are my top 3 favorite romance tropes! As you can see they all fall into that Hallmark movie scenario, and I’m not complaining one bit. I do love a Hallmark movie from time to time. Do you have a preferred trope? If so, tell me about it. Also, if you’re up to it, what book do you recommend to go with it?

Thank you for reading my thoughts,

Laura