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Second Time Around
Officer Shane Caldwell responds to a routine end of shift call with some annoyance, but when she tackles and handcuffs her ex-lover and the father of her son, things turn hot in a flash. Four years before Quinn Scott disappeared to make his fortune, and she hasn’t heard a word from him. As his touch ignites old passions, Shane is torn between telling him about the son he’s never known, and protecting young Jackson’s heart from the man who walked away without a backward glance.
When Shane storms back into his life, Quinn isn’t surprised by the incredible attraction which sparks between them. He wants to take up where they left off, but years of lies and unexpected betrayals from family and friends endanger his Thoroughbred breeding operation and his dreams of a future with the woman he never really left behind.
Will old prejudices separate them again or can love grow stronger the Second Time Around?
When Shane storms back into his life, Quinn isn’t surprised by the incredible attraction which sparks between them. He wants to take up where they left off, but years of lies and unexpected betrayals from family and friends endanger his Thoroughbred breeding operation and his dreams of a future with the woman he never really left behind.
Will old prejudices separate them again or can love grow stronger the Second Time Around?
72 pages, ebook
First published December 27, 2010
39 people are currently reading
344 people want to read
About the author
J.M. Madden
70 books930 followersNY Times and USA Today Bestselling author J.M. Madden writes compelling romances between 'combat modified' military men and the women who love them. J.M. Madden loves any and all good love stories, most particularly her own. She has two beautiful children and a husband who always keeps her on her toes.
J.M. was a Deputy Sheriff in Ohio for nine years, until hubby moved the clan to Kentucky. When not chasing the family around, she's at the computer, reading and writing, perfecting her craft. She occasionally takes breaks to feed her animal horde and is trying to control her office-supply addiction, but both tasks are uphill battles. Happily, she is writing full-time and always has several projects in the works. She also dearly loves to hear from readers! So, drop her a line. She'll respond.
J.M. was a Deputy Sheriff in Ohio for nine years, until hubby moved the clan to Kentucky. When not chasing the family around, she's at the computer, reading and writing, perfecting her craft. She occasionally takes breaks to feed her animal horde and is trying to control her office-supply addiction, but both tasks are uphill battles. Happily, she is writing full-time and always has several projects in the works. She also dearly loves to hear from readers! So, drop her a line. She'll respond.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 27, 2019
Ends at 60%
And the story sucked. He left her four years before and she was pregnant. She couldn't get a hold of him and he only tried a couple of times to get to her. Her Mother told him she was dating and he just took off. He wasn't celibate, but he loved her on so much and thought about her call the time. Just gag me! He was always coming back to her too. They have sex within 15 minutes of seeing each other again and I just didn't care anymore. Especially when he pulled a condom out of his wallet and was ready to go. then after he had sex with her he was into king to himself how he hadn't been a monk but was very selective with the women he f&%@#d. Nothing makes me believe in true love more than a guy who boinks other women! Excuse me, boinks other selective women! Gross! Just one of my pet peeves. After that happens in the first 5% of the story I just didn't care anymore. Luckily the story is way too short and I didn't have to not care for long. It ends at 60% of the book. Thank heavens. Not something I can recommend and I am mad that I wasted 99 cents on it! At least I hope it was only 99 cents?!?!? Just say NO! I wish I had.
And the story sucked. He left her four years before and she was pregnant. She couldn't get a hold of him and he only tried a couple of times to get to her. Her Mother told him she was dating and he just took off. He wasn't celibate, but he loved her on so much and thought about her call the time. Just gag me! He was always coming back to her too. They have sex within 15 minutes of seeing each other again and I just didn't care anymore. Especially when he pulled a condom out of his wallet and was ready to go. then after he had sex with her he was into king to himself how he hadn't been a monk but was very selective with the women he f&%@#d. Nothing makes me believe in true love more than a guy who boinks other women! Excuse me, boinks other selective women! Gross! Just one of my pet peeves. After that happens in the first 5% of the story I just didn't care anymore. Luckily the story is way too short and I didn't have to not care for long. It ends at 60% of the book. Thank heavens. Not something I can recommend and I am mad that I wasted 99 cents on it! At least I hope it was only 99 cents?!?!? Just say NO! I wish I had.
August 10, 2011
Really good! A short read that was sweet, but had a lot of steam.
Separated for a few years, Quinn and Shane meet again, and things heat up between them immediately. Wonderful chemistry, he is yummy and she is a little vixen. For the author's debut book it was done surprisingly well. It flowed nicely and had plenty of dialogue, which is always a plus for me. There was enough story there that this could have developed into a full length book, if author had given us a glimpse into the lives that they lead when they were apart. That's not to say what she did give us in this short, was a nice complete package in itself. I just liked the 2 main characters and wanted more. I will definitely be checking to see what else J M Madden has to offer.
Separated for a few years, Quinn and Shane meet again, and things heat up between them immediately. Wonderful chemistry, he is yummy and she is a little vixen. For the author's debut book it was done surprisingly well. It flowed nicely and had plenty of dialogue, which is always a plus for me. There was enough story there that this could have developed into a full length book, if author had given us a glimpse into the lives that they lead when they were apart. That's not to say what she did give us in this short, was a nice complete package in itself. I just liked the 2 main characters and wanted more. I will definitely be checking to see what else J M Madden has to offer.
October 6, 2012
Really sweet short read, ending seemed rushed but wrapped up nicely. Looking forward to reading more by J.M.Madden
August 13, 2014
This is the second short story I've read by this author and I found it cringe inducing. I've enjoyed her full length novels but his one? *shudder*.
I found both Shane and Quinn lacking in any real personality. And to me, Shane is a guy's name, and that was confusing. Small thing I know but it just added to the overall frustration with this book? I found their actions toward each other silly. Supposedly Quinn walked out on Shane years ago with no real explanation but the first time she sees him they do the horizontal rhumba. No, not in my world is a guy forgiven that quickly.
Then, when it seems that he DID try and call her and her mother blocked the calls, that was almost just slipped in. Her mother altered the course of her life, her son's life and barely a ripple. Again, when Quinn found out he was a father, barely a ripple.
As with the previous short story I read by this author, there was barely any conflict. Overall, I was very disappointed in the author. Please, stay away from the shorter length stories. While they don't cost a lot of money, what they do cost is wasted.
I found both Shane and Quinn lacking in any real personality. And to me, Shane is a guy's name, and that was confusing. Small thing I know but it just added to the overall frustration with this book? I found their actions toward each other silly. Supposedly Quinn walked out on Shane years ago with no real explanation but the first time she sees him they do the horizontal rhumba. No, not in my world is a guy forgiven that quickly.
Then, when it seems that he DID try and call her and her mother blocked the calls, that was almost just slipped in. Her mother altered the course of her life, her son's life and barely a ripple. Again, when Quinn found out he was a father, barely a ripple.
As with the previous short story I read by this author, there was barely any conflict. Overall, I was very disappointed in the author. Please, stay away from the shorter length stories. While they don't cost a lot of money, what they do cost is wasted.
January 12, 2013
I will be my usual self and be the reader who disliked this book. ;)
Cardboard characters and a pretty unbelievable story did not help this novella at all. I really hate when an author writes off women as walking sex hormones, with no backbones, minds, will.
I did not expect either a novella nor an erotica book, so imagine my surprise when the leading couple jumped into the sack in the first three pages (when she has a toddler waiting home for her...). He left her four years ago, pregnant and without an explanation. She sees him after four years and immediately she has sex with him...wtf?
The story did not improve when she started sprouting nonsense...he left me because I was boring and the like.
Cardboard characters and a pretty unbelievable story did not help this novella at all. I really hate when an author writes off women as walking sex hormones, with no backbones, minds, will.
I did not expect either a novella nor an erotica book, so imagine my surprise when the leading couple jumped into the sack in the first three pages (when she has a toddler waiting home for her...). He left her four years ago, pregnant and without an explanation. She sees him after four years and immediately she has sex with him...wtf?
The story did not improve when she started sprouting nonsense...he left me because I was boring and the like.
June 6, 2016
Enjoyed this short story. But would have liked it better if Shane had made Quinn work harder to get back into her life. She was too easy on him.
May 9, 2017
The characters annoyed me and it goes at a breakneck pace without meaningful conversations and resolutions to the conflicts. Also had stuff that made me cringe - see examples below.
Not my cuppa.
SAY WHAT?
Her gaze flickered downward, he could taste.
Note: PUH-LEASE...
Not my cuppa.
SAY WHAT?
Her gaze flickered downward, he could taste.
Note: PUH-LEASE...
July 31, 2012
Shane has made a nice, little life for herself as a police officer in horse country, Kentucky. As a single mom to a three-year-old son, and with parents who help her out when she needs them, her life seems perfect. That is until Quinn comes back to town. Quinn is the father of her son (but he doesn't know about said son yet), and the man who walked out of her life years ago. From the minute they meet up again though, sparks and clothes fly, and they can't keep their hands off of each other.
Quinn is determined to forge his way with his own horse farm installation, but he's having trouble with his prized thoroughbred stallion, his wealthy father, and apparently his own trusted employees. Not to mention, he has to come to terms with a son he didn't know about. But with the help of Shane, he might just make both their dreams come true.
Horses are such an integral part of Kentucky, and bring an element of romance all their own, but even if you know nothing about horse country, the story is one that will have you racing to the end of this book about two people who find a deep, lasting love the SECOND TIME AROUND.
Quinn is determined to forge his way with his own horse farm installation, but he's having trouble with his prized thoroughbred stallion, his wealthy father, and apparently his own trusted employees. Not to mention, he has to come to terms with a son he didn't know about. But with the help of Shane, he might just make both their dreams come true.
Horses are such an integral part of Kentucky, and bring an element of romance all their own, but even if you know nothing about horse country, the story is one that will have you racing to the end of this book about two people who find a deep, lasting love the SECOND TIME AROUND.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2012
I love reunion stories, and this one is so good! You'll root for Shane & Quinn from the very beginning!
January 13, 2013
3.5 stars. Enjoyable story about second chances. The ending was a bit sudden and would have enjoyed a longer story. Must say 'Snort' the horse was entertaining.
March 3, 2017
well that was not my cuppa --- no grovel --- no payback for evil mom --- jump right to smexy time without any talking once reunited
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2020
This was a fast read but it had a lot in it. Mystery, romance, and a second chance to get things right. Quinn Scott left town years ago to save the love of his life from losing a job and much needed money. Shane Caldwell was from the poorer side of town and she was the hired help. His father came between them but she thought the reason he left was to make his own fortune eventhough he came from a weathly family. Years later he returns to win her back but she has a secret that he should know first. I have to admit that because her name was Shane Caldwell I got a bit confused as to who was who. But in the end I very much enjoyed their story and only wished it had been longer.
June 1, 2017
Second Time Around by J.M. Madden is a very quick read, the perfect choice for those with limited time for reading. Ms Madden has delivered a fast-paced read that will anchor you to your chair and kindle from start to finish. The characters in this book are perfect for the story. Quinn and Shane's story is loaded with drama, suspense, action and sexy bits. I enjoyed Second Time around from the first word to the last and look forward to reading more from J.M. Madden soon. Second Time Around is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
March 27, 2018
What a great story line... Officer Shane is called out on a possible disturbance at a outlying ranch. Where she tackles and handcuffs her ex. He is back and wants her, but she doesn't want or need Quinn in her life or their son. He will find out secrets kept will be many. But the steam from their youth has not diminished at all. He needs to convince Shane he is back for good. Will look at more books by J.M. Madden at a future date.
June 13, 2025
Great short read!
For a third person short novel it was great. I'm not a fan of third person novels. However, I didn't mind it. I felt like it could have been a bit longer and went through a few more things, like how her parents thought of everything. I don't think they finished explaining everything and talking it all out, unless they did and it wasn't stated in the novel. It was well written, and explained things in detail very well. Overall good novel.
For a third person short novel it was great. I'm not a fan of third person novels. However, I didn't mind it. I felt like it could have been a bit longer and went through a few more things, like how her parents thought of everything. I don't think they finished explaining everything and talking it all out, unless they did and it wasn't stated in the novel. It was well written, and explained things in detail very well. Overall good novel.
June 8, 2017
A nice quickie to read, hot and sexy with love and family the second time around.
July 7, 2024
Wished for it to be longer…
March 25, 2013
Sexy romp between two star crossed lovers.
Four years ago Quinn Scott broke Shane Caldwell's heart by telling her he loved her and then walked away.
Four years later Shane is a police officer that responds to a late night call at a horse ranch. After wrestling with a suspect and getting him cuffed Shane realizes its none other than Quinn and he is the new owner of the ranch.
One thing is clear from the beginning, these two still spontaneously combust in lust around each other but Shane was left with more than a broken heart four years ago and she has more than her heart to protect now.
This was more than just a romance it also had a feisty Thoroughbred, and family betrayal.
Four years ago Quinn Scott broke Shane Caldwell's heart by telling her he loved her and then walked away.
Four years later Shane is a police officer that responds to a late night call at a horse ranch. After wrestling with a suspect and getting him cuffed Shane realizes its none other than Quinn and he is the new owner of the ranch.
One thing is clear from the beginning, these two still spontaneously combust in lust around each other but Shane was left with more than a broken heart four years ago and she has more than her heart to protect now.
This was more than just a romance it also had a feisty Thoroughbred, and family betrayal.
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April 26, 2013Thank you to Decadent Publishing for the free copy as part of a giveaway.
I enjoyed this story. I love that Shane, the heroine is a police officer. I love that she had spunk but still was leery about getting her feelings hurt again.
I love that Quinn, the hero was building the house and stable of their mutual dreams from 4 years prior, before he left. While Shane didn't know why Quinn left, Quinn was trying to build a future for them both.
I enjoyed this story. I love that Shane, the heroine is a police officer. I love that she had spunk but still was leery about getting her feelings hurt again.
I love that Quinn, the hero was building the house and stable of their mutual dreams from 4 years prior, before he left. While Shane didn't know why Quinn left, Quinn was trying to build a future for them both.
December 20, 2014
An excellent short story. The characters were interesting and I became vested in them. My only problem, and it's one I swore I'd never complain about, since it is listed as a novella, not a full novel. There seemed to be missing parts. The bones were all there for a complete novel sized story but had been edited down so much there were holes. This effected mostly the secondary characters, and ultimately thr story itself. I was left feeling like I was missing something.
March 6, 2015
4.5 second chance at love stars
Loved this story, the plot, the characters, the sexy time! JM Madden certainly knows how to pen a great story.
The only thing stopping me giving it 5 stars was the ending was a little too rushed. I would have liked to know how her parents felt about it, given her mothers actions. But I was happy with the outcome nonetheless
Loved this story, the plot, the characters, the sexy time! JM Madden certainly knows how to pen a great story.
The only thing stopping me giving it 5 stars was the ending was a little too rushed. I would have liked to know how her parents felt about it, given her mothers actions. But I was happy with the outcome nonetheless
November 3, 2012
This was a short and sexy read. I enjoyed it, but there was so much room for more. I would've loved more of a background story and more of a build-up in the rekindled romance. One thing is for sure. J.M. Madden really knows how to write a steamy love scene. I will be a fan of hers for life.
September 19, 2014
This was OK. Not a patch on her Lost and Found series.
Its the age old story of childhood sweethearts from opposite sides of the tracks, torn apart by third parties only for her to find out she is pregnant. Four years later he returns ..
Its the age old story of childhood sweethearts from opposite sides of the tracks, torn apart by third parties only for her to find out she is pregnant. Four years later he returns ..
June 28, 2015
This was an 80 page novella and although I liked it, I didn't enjoy it as much as the authors other series (Lost and Found). Still it had its moments, I think if it had been longer with more time to develop the characters and the story I would have enjoyed it a bit more.
February 27, 2014
This is a delightful short read about second chances and how fate loves to mess with your life!
January 24, 2015
A fabulous quick read that I forgot I had. JMM has such a knack for writing a novella that does not feel like one. This one is done so damn well, not rushed, fleshed out and multi layered.
December 19, 2014
good quick read.
December 22, 2014
Good, quick story about love and redemption. You never forget your first true. love.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews