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Arrowmount #1
A Second Story
A queer, seaside, cozy fantasy, equipped with a bookstore cat.
After falling for one another as adventurers, Arileas Damaris and Finnean Goldmark begin a life together travelling around the realm. Almost a year later, they decide to take a vacation in a town called Arrowmount, where the sea and sun calls to them.
Once there, they fall in love with the place and its people. Ari and Finn take a leap together and buy the local bookstore and start a life amidst the sun-soaked cobblestones.
From water damage and renovations to Finn's old life haunting them, life in Arrowmount is not quite as calm as they thought. However, with some help from the locals, Ari and Finn might just find their place beside the sea.
After falling for one another as adventurers, Arileas Damaris and Finnean Goldmark begin a life together travelling around the realm. Almost a year later, they decide to take a vacation in a town called Arrowmount, where the sea and sun calls to them.
Once there, they fall in love with the place and its people. Ari and Finn take a leap together and buy the local bookstore and start a life amidst the sun-soaked cobblestones.
From water damage and renovations to Finn's old life haunting them, life in Arrowmount is not quite as calm as they thought. However, with some help from the locals, Ari and Finn might just find their place beside the sea.
286 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2023
18 people are currently reading
749 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Collignon
5 books49 followersJ. A. Collignon (AKA: Jenna, but you can call her Jenn) is a Canadian author based out of the prairies, who loves everything fantasy. You name it: fantasy books, movies, TV shows, TTRPG podcasts, and she even ran a piratey Dungeons and Dragons campaign for her friends. Most often, she can be found on her couch with a thick fantasy book in hand.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
August 14, 2023
If you are looking for a cozy fantasy, this needs to be on your radar. It’s very similar vibes to Legends and Lattes but I’d argue even cozier.
It’s queer seaside fantasy that reads like one big warm bear hug. It’s a shorter book, just under 300 pages and we’re quickly introduced to our 2 main characters Ari and Finn and they are part of a group of adventures who were given a job by the king. To hunt a notorious royal assasin called The Shade. It’s friendship/love at first site pretty much. We get great backstories because we experience the story through the eyes of both Ari and Finn, we get a developed relationship. It’s all paced so well all the way up to where they retire and buy a bookstore together on the seaside.
It is literally a slice of life from a fantasy world particularly the happy cozy side. I seriously couldn’t recommend this book enough, I surprised me in the best ways and it’s a romance, I hate romance. If you get me to like your book where the main focus is a romance, you deserve a Nobel prize.
That being said, the fantasy elements were really fun. There’s talk of wizards, magic, dragons, taverns, barbarians, orcs, wolven beasts, we get some fight scenes and then you get the laidback bookstore scenes, cute adorable animals like a whole chapter dedicated to Sophie the bookstore cat. Just so much depth thrown in here, but it’s not cluttered, it felt purposeful. I loved the setting, honestly, a perfect summer read. I know Jenn had a blast writing this.
It’s queer seaside fantasy that reads like one big warm bear hug. It’s a shorter book, just under 300 pages and we’re quickly introduced to our 2 main characters Ari and Finn and they are part of a group of adventures who were given a job by the king. To hunt a notorious royal assasin called The Shade. It’s friendship/love at first site pretty much. We get great backstories because we experience the story through the eyes of both Ari and Finn, we get a developed relationship. It’s all paced so well all the way up to where they retire and buy a bookstore together on the seaside.
It is literally a slice of life from a fantasy world particularly the happy cozy side. I seriously couldn’t recommend this book enough, I surprised me in the best ways and it’s a romance, I hate romance. If you get me to like your book where the main focus is a romance, you deserve a Nobel prize.
That being said, the fantasy elements were really fun. There’s talk of wizards, magic, dragons, taverns, barbarians, orcs, wolven beasts, we get some fight scenes and then you get the laidback bookstore scenes, cute adorable animals like a whole chapter dedicated to Sophie the bookstore cat. Just so much depth thrown in here, but it’s not cluttered, it felt purposeful. I loved the setting, honestly, a perfect summer read. I know Jenn had a blast writing this.
March 8, 2025
the cutest cozy fantasy <3
May 27, 2023
MY FRIEND WROTE A FREAKING BOOK Y'ALL!!! this was so cute! cozy fantasy with a home reno twist with a bookstore and two men so hopelessly in love with each other its SICKENING
December 17, 2024
What happens after "happily ever after"?
After leaving their adventuring days behind them, our narrators Ari and Finn buy a bookstore in the sleepy town of Arrowmount. Between threats from the past, and water damaged books, their new life isn't easy, but Ari and Finn always remember how much they love each other.
I saw someone compare this story to HGTV shows and I think that's a spot on description. It's so satisfying to watch Ari and Finn join such a friendly little town and build a home and a business exactly how they want it! It really speaks to my dreams of living in a small walkable community surrounded by friends, family, and small local businesses!
I am thrilled to read my friend Jenn's first published book, and I'm excited to see what else she has in store for the Arrowmount gang 💕
After leaving their adventuring days behind them, our narrators Ari and Finn buy a bookstore in the sleepy town of Arrowmount. Between threats from the past, and water damaged books, their new life isn't easy, but Ari and Finn always remember how much they love each other.
I saw someone compare this story to HGTV shows and I think that's a spot on description. It's so satisfying to watch Ari and Finn join such a friendly little town and build a home and a business exactly how they want it! It really speaks to my dreams of living in a small walkable community surrounded by friends, family, and small local businesses!
I am thrilled to read my friend Jenn's first published book, and I'm excited to see what else she has in store for the Arrowmount gang 💕
July 9, 2023
3.5⭐️ a very sweet, cosy story.
If you loved Legend’s and Lattes you will undoubtedly enjoy this book too. A perfect cosy read, ideal for a day at the beach.
If you loved Legend’s and Lattes you will undoubtedly enjoy this book too. A perfect cosy read, ideal for a day at the beach.
May 21, 2023
I've been following Jenn's writing journey for a while now, so I was super excited to finally get to read some of her work!
This story reads like an indulgent epilogue at the end of an epic fantasy, and I mean that in the best way. Usually the end of a high stakes novel everything wraps up way faster than what we want. We don't get to see how the characters' lives go on, what "normal" feels like after the heroes have won the day. We don't get to see the domestic scenes, of lovers learning to live with each other, going about their everyday lives together.
This story follows Ari and Finn as they settle down in the coastal village of Arrowmount. We get to see how they begin to make connections and become a part of a community of welcoming neighbors. It's a comforting read, and it's a great choice if you're looking for something set at a calmer pace. The story lets you focus on the characters and world-building rather than too much conflict or stressful quests.
This story reads like an indulgent epilogue at the end of an epic fantasy, and I mean that in the best way. Usually the end of a high stakes novel everything wraps up way faster than what we want. We don't get to see how the characters' lives go on, what "normal" feels like after the heroes have won the day. We don't get to see the domestic scenes, of lovers learning to live with each other, going about their everyday lives together.
This story follows Ari and Finn as they settle down in the coastal village of Arrowmount. We get to see how they begin to make connections and become a part of a community of welcoming neighbors. It's a comforting read, and it's a great choice if you're looking for something set at a calmer pace. The story lets you focus on the characters and world-building rather than too much conflict or stressful quests.
June 7, 2023
cosy fantasies are just not for me
December 28, 2023
I absolutely loved this book!!
The descriptions and writing made me feel like I was in the book with the characters and would make me feel all the emotions! Jenna made this imaginary world feel so real and made me want to be there the whole book.
The relationship between Ari and Finn was my favourite! The way they interacted made me smile, feel warm, and brought soo many little butterflies to my heart.
I would definitely recommend everyone read ‘A Second Story’. Below are some quotes that made me feel all the emotions and brought the writing to life.
** Without Finn, though, everything felt wrong
** Finnean breathed in the salty sea air as they drew nearer to the shores of Arrowmount, the sun glittering off the nearby ocean like a pile of gold.
** Ari looked down at the key and turned it over a few times, feeling as though the entire world had narrowed right to this moment here. He felt Finn move to, the slightest of squeezes to his hand, and looked up. Sage beamed him excitedly and stepped aside, leaving the door in full view
** Late morning sunshine beamed down onto the cobblestones, hot air rising, and a shimmer above them. Heat thrummed through the shop, oppressively thick
** Ari plucked the cat from Finn‘s hands and cradled her close to his chest, feeling the light rumble of her purrs as he scratched under her chin. “You know if a cat blinks that you are totally in love with you.”
“Is that why you blink at me so, darling?”
** “I promise.” Finn let out a shaky breath and brushed a careful hand along Ari’s jaw, running his thumb against his cheekbone. “This is our new adventure Ari. This is the start of our second story, no matter what we do —“
** Ari turned back to look at his partner, his love, and beamed at him.
The descriptions and writing made me feel like I was in the book with the characters and would make me feel all the emotions! Jenna made this imaginary world feel so real and made me want to be there the whole book.
The relationship between Ari and Finn was my favourite! The way they interacted made me smile, feel warm, and brought soo many little butterflies to my heart.
I would definitely recommend everyone read ‘A Second Story’. Below are some quotes that made me feel all the emotions and brought the writing to life.
** Without Finn, though, everything felt wrong
** Finnean breathed in the salty sea air as they drew nearer to the shores of Arrowmount, the sun glittering off the nearby ocean like a pile of gold.
** Ari looked down at the key and turned it over a few times, feeling as though the entire world had narrowed right to this moment here. He felt Finn move to, the slightest of squeezes to his hand, and looked up. Sage beamed him excitedly and stepped aside, leaving the door in full view
** Late morning sunshine beamed down onto the cobblestones, hot air rising, and a shimmer above them. Heat thrummed through the shop, oppressively thick
** Ari plucked the cat from Finn‘s hands and cradled her close to his chest, feeling the light rumble of her purrs as he scratched under her chin. “You know if a cat blinks that you are totally in love with you.”
“Is that why you blink at me so, darling?”
** “I promise.” Finn let out a shaky breath and brushed a careful hand along Ari’s jaw, running his thumb against his cheekbone. “This is our new adventure Ari. This is the start of our second story, no matter what we do —“
** Ari turned back to look at his partner, his love, and beamed at him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2023
A Second Story follows adventurers Ari and Finn, who leave the world of traveling and treasure behind and settle in the relaxing seaside town of Arrowmount. They soon become joint owners of a rundown bookshop they hope to turn into a charming place the locals can utilize to discover their next favorite read and to find community. A Second Story is about getting second chances, following your heart, and finding friends who feel like family.
This is a great book to pick up if you are new to reading fantasy or an avid fantasy reader looking for something cozy. I enjoyed Ari and Finn’s relationship and its development throughout the story. J.A. Collignon created loveable characters you were really rooting for. Stories that center around a bookstore are something I find myself drawn to. I’m always looking for my next favorite local indie bookstore, and I’m slightly jealous that I can’t actually visit Arrowmount and ask Ari for a book recommendation.
Thank you to the author J.A. Collignon for providing me with an ARC of A Second Story in exchange for an honest review.
This is a great book to pick up if you are new to reading fantasy or an avid fantasy reader looking for something cozy. I enjoyed Ari and Finn’s relationship and its development throughout the story. J.A. Collignon created loveable characters you were really rooting for. Stories that center around a bookstore are something I find myself drawn to. I’m always looking for my next favorite local indie bookstore, and I’m slightly jealous that I can’t actually visit Arrowmount and ask Ari for a book recommendation.
Thank you to the author J.A. Collignon for providing me with an ARC of A Second Story in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2025
What can I say? I'm a sucker for a nice cozy fantasy, especially one with a bookstore. Collignon did such a fantastic job bringing Arrouwmount to life and giving our MMCs and supporting cast such depth. Ari and Finns love for each other wraps you in a warm hug from the very beginning of the story. I cannot wait to read more by this author and, dare I say it, A Second Story.
Overall, if you enjoy cozy fantasy such as Legends and Lattes or Can't Spell Treason Without Tea, I highly recommend picking this book up and giving it a try.
Overall, if you enjoy cozy fantasy such as Legends and Lattes or Can't Spell Treason Without Tea, I highly recommend picking this book up and giving it a try.
May 10, 2023
Thanks so much to the author for an ARC of this book! It was cozy, sweet, and I just adored the characters so much! This is a debut novel and I can't wait to read more by her! If you enjoy cozy fantasy, this is a must read!!
August 9, 2024
A laid-back, cozy story but not boring at all!
The characters are amazing, you can never get tired of them
The characters are amazing, you can never get tired of them
April 26, 2023
Rating : 4,5 but I rounded to 5 stars since Goodreads doesn't have half or quarter stars.
Disclaimer : I got this book for free, I received it from the author in exchange of an honest review
This was my first cosy fantasy story, I usually read epic or dark fantasy but I wanted to try new things.
I really loved reading A Second Story it was a really nice change of habits and it was really relaxing.
I don't give five stars because it was a little too slow for me I wIould have liked a little more action but I guess it's logical for a cosy story to not have a lot of action.
The story was really well written and I loved Ari and Finn they're so cute !
I think Maybe this kind of fantasy is not really for me because I liked it but it missed a little bit of action.
This said it was really great to try Cosy Fantasy and I'm really happy that A Second Story was the book that made me discovered it, because Jenn is amazing as an author and as a person, she was nothing but kind during the few times we talk.
I recommend this book to all the cosy fantasy loverr and for anyone who would like to discover this genre.
Disclaimer : I got this book for free, I received it from the author in exchange of an honest review
This was my first cosy fantasy story, I usually read epic or dark fantasy but I wanted to try new things.
I really loved reading A Second Story it was a really nice change of habits and it was really relaxing.
I don't give five stars because it was a little too slow for me I wIould have liked a little more action but I guess it's logical for a cosy story to not have a lot of action.
The story was really well written and I loved Ari and Finn they're so cute !
I think Maybe this kind of fantasy is not really for me because I liked it but it missed a little bit of action.
This said it was really great to try Cosy Fantasy and I'm really happy that A Second Story was the book that made me discovered it, because Jenn is amazing as an author and as a person, she was nothing but kind during the few times we talk.
I recommend this book to all the cosy fantasy loverr and for anyone who would like to discover this genre.
November 21, 2024
I reread this book in November 2024 and I hate GR because on rereads it always deletes my original review.
Anyways, full review is on TSG and copied below.
**Thank you to J.A. Collignon for gifting me a copy of this book.**
I really loved this book! Finn and Ari are fantastic characters. It was great to start with some of their backstory, how they met, and them finding Arrowmount and their new future. Arrowmount is just somewhere I want to go now with all of these fantastic characters and spots! The characters are queernormative and everyone is just lovely. The bookshop is the best, too! These kinds of stories always make me want to own a bookstore with the whimsy and lovely moments.
And Jenn's writing is so wonderful! She writes fantastic characters and character arcs. And just lovely moments between characters.
If you're looking for cozy queer fantasy, like Legends and Lattes, this is definitely something you could like!
ALSO Merlin references! 😍
Anyways, full review is on TSG and copied below.
**Thank you to J.A. Collignon for gifting me a copy of this book.**
I really loved this book! Finn and Ari are fantastic characters. It was great to start with some of their backstory, how they met, and them finding Arrowmount and their new future. Arrowmount is just somewhere I want to go now with all of these fantastic characters and spots! The characters are queernormative and everyone is just lovely. The bookshop is the best, too! These kinds of stories always make me want to own a bookstore with the whimsy and lovely moments.
And Jenn's writing is so wonderful! She writes fantastic characters and character arcs. And just lovely moments between characters.
If you're looking for cozy queer fantasy, like Legends and Lattes, this is definitely something you could like!
ALSO Merlin references! 😍
June 30, 2023
3.5/5
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review! I really enjoyed this book, it was very engaging and I was invested in all of the characters and their backstories. The pacing was nice and the writing style was wonderful.
Thank you to the author for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review! I really enjoyed this book, it was very engaging and I was invested in all of the characters and their backstories. The pacing was nice and the writing style was wonderful.
June 20, 2023
My friend wrote a book!!! If you’re a fan of cozy fantasy, please pick this one up!! It follows 2 adventures who decide to take a break and by a bookstore by the sea! Immaculate vibes, a bookstore cat, lush descriptions, this book has it all!
May 11, 2023
While this didn't turn out to be my cup of tea, I cannot deny the author has a talent for storytelling. I can't wait to see what she does next!
June 30, 2024
This is my first review. I have never felt the need to write a review, believing that a star rating is enough. However, given that this is an indie book from an author, I've been obsessed with watching on YouTube and the fact this book came into my life at the right time, I'm going to give it a shot.
●Characters
Skies, I love these characters. Ari and Finn are complete simps for one another, and I
inhaled that shit, expeditiously. Charming Finn and his billowy shirts are a perfect match for my beloved bookworm elf. Sage, my sweet summer fiendling, the moment I hear about your book coming out, I'm pre-ordering it with a quickness. The side characters are also super charming!
●Plot
Honestly, I truly have underestimated the slice of life and cozy book. It was so nice to read about characters I love, going about their life opening a book store. Of course, I like reading high stakes like the next person, but It's wonderful not having to clutch my loins every chapter! Instead, I'm clutching my heart because everything is so lovely!
●Myself
This book truly came at the right time for me. I'm currently going through a big shift in my life. Things are going pretty well, and I feel as though I'm finally finding my path in life. Which is quite scary, actually after feeling so lost for a long time. This book was like a warm hug or like sipping a cup of hot cocoa. This book made me more ready to start my own second story.
That's all I got! Please, go read it if you are even a tiny bit interested!
●Characters
Skies, I love these characters. Ari and Finn are complete simps for one another, and I
inhaled that shit, expeditiously. Charming Finn and his billowy shirts are a perfect match for my beloved bookworm elf. Sage, my sweet summer fiendling, the moment I hear about your book coming out, I'm pre-ordering it with a quickness. The side characters are also super charming!
●Plot
Honestly, I truly have underestimated the slice of life and cozy book. It was so nice to read about characters I love, going about their life opening a book store. Of course, I like reading high stakes like the next person, but It's wonderful not having to clutch my loins every chapter! Instead, I'm clutching my heart because everything is so lovely!
●Myself
This book truly came at the right time for me. I'm currently going through a big shift in my life. Things are going pretty well, and I feel as though I'm finally finding my path in life. Which is quite scary, actually after feeling so lost for a long time. This book was like a warm hug or like sipping a cup of hot cocoa. This book made me more ready to start my own second story.
That's all I got! Please, go read it if you are even a tiny bit interested!
May 10, 2023
Slice of Life Cozy perfection!
I absolutely LOVED “A Second Story” by J.A. Collignon! I was instantly drawn into the fantastical world and invested to the lovable characters. From the beautiful scenic descriptions to the character depictions this book was absolutely magical. We follow Arileas Damaris and Finnean Goldmark as they hang up their adventurer boots after falling in love, traveling and eventually purchasing a bookshop in the town of Arrowmount. Will the (not so) mundane life of owning a bookshop be enough to quell the once adventurous couple or will they be back out on a quest before they can open for business? Find out May 11, 2023 when “A Second Story” hits shelves!
Full small town vibes, found family, bookshop renovations, a adorable cat, romance and magic - this cozy fantasy is a must read!
Thank you to J.A. Collignon for gifted copy!
I absolutely LOVED “A Second Story” by J.A. Collignon! I was instantly drawn into the fantastical world and invested to the lovable characters. From the beautiful scenic descriptions to the character depictions this book was absolutely magical. We follow Arileas Damaris and Finnean Goldmark as they hang up their adventurer boots after falling in love, traveling and eventually purchasing a bookshop in the town of Arrowmount. Will the (not so) mundane life of owning a bookshop be enough to quell the once adventurous couple or will they be back out on a quest before they can open for business? Find out May 11, 2023 when “A Second Story” hits shelves!
Full small town vibes, found family, bookshop renovations, a adorable cat, romance and magic - this cozy fantasy is a must read!
Thank you to J.A. Collignon for gifted copy!
May 7, 2024
I've already packed my bags because I want to move to Arrowmount! This world and characters completely stole my heart. I'm so happy that I got to spend time with the book and what's best, I have the next volume waiting ready on my shelf😍
Full 5 stars⭐️
The book would have received 5+ stars, except that a small earworm hindered the reading experience. And I realize that I come from a loveless background myself, so when the main characters call each other affectionate names, it sounds really weird to my ears. Which says more about me than the author...Maybe this is something I could improve in my own life🤔 Fortunately, there are books like this that teach new things about relationships🥰
I recommend this to anyone who likes good warm stories. (I thought this was even better than Legends and Lattes🤫)
Full 5 stars⭐️
The book would have received 5+ stars, except that a small earworm hindered the reading experience. And I realize that I come from a loveless background myself, so when the main characters call each other affectionate names, it sounds really weird to my ears. Which says more about me than the author...Maybe this is something I could improve in my own life🤔 Fortunately, there are books like this that teach new things about relationships🥰
I recommend this to anyone who likes good warm stories. (I thought this was even better than Legends and Lattes🤫)
June 21, 2023
I had the huge pleasure and privilege of being amongst the first to read A Second Story last year. This book is warm and kind. It also is J.A. Collignon’s very first book published, and it’s a great introduction to the worlds she’ll build for her readers: Arrowmount a place small enough to hide from the outside word when it gets unbearable, and also a place big enough to keep you wanting more of it —which, luckily, we’ll get.
I won’t talk about the story, I won’t spoil this shiny new gem to anyone. Just know this: it has adventure, a small town in a large kingdom, small lives that make you ache for that kind of warmth, and a bookstore with its very own cat. What else would you want in a cozy fantasy?
I won’t talk about the story, I won’t spoil this shiny new gem to anyone. Just know this: it has adventure, a small town in a large kingdom, small lives that make you ache for that kind of warmth, and a bookstore with its very own cat. What else would you want in a cozy fantasy?
September 26, 2024
I had this book on my TBR forever and finally had time to read it. This was cozy and charming while also being heartbreaking and devastating. The relationships in this book, romantic or otherwise didn’t feel forced or unnatural. Especially with Ari and Finn. They fit together like a puzzle or like stained glass. Made for one another. Found family will forever be my favorite trope and honestly this book did it perfectly. The authors use of fear and anxiety to have characters make irrational decisions was relatable and frustrating. Also the seaside town/bookstore setting was so incredibly cozy. I cannot wait to read the sequel!
[Dates from August because I’m slowly moving all my Fable reviews to Goodreads]
[Dates from August because I’m slowly moving all my Fable reviews to Goodreads]
June 23, 2023
I was so excited to purchase and read this first book of Jenn’s, who I’ve been internet-friends with for a while now. A Second Story was the perfect read for a rainy day or right before bed, where all you wanted to do is curl up with a blanket and a mug of tea.
Cozy fantasy isn’t my preferred genre, but this book felt like a warm hug, and was the perfect “palette cleanser” between more intense/heavier stories.
I look forward to Jenn’s future releases, and all the other stories that have yet to take place in Arrowmount 💚
Cozy fantasy isn’t my preferred genre, but this book felt like a warm hug, and was the perfect “palette cleanser” between more intense/heavier stories.
I look forward to Jenn’s future releases, and all the other stories that have yet to take place in Arrowmount 💚
February 2, 2025
Ignore how long this took me lol! Anyways…I loved this book! It was like a warm hug, or that feeling when you go into a old library and have all the time in the world. I haven’t read many cozy fantasies, but I think it might be one of my new favorite genres! I loved all the characters in this book, and grew attached quickly! I’m also glad this did have some conflict in it, while I do like cozy stories, a 200 page book where hardly anything happens is not what I wanted! This had drama while still remaining cozy! So cute and I want to own a library now more than ever!!
🗡️📚🌊🐱
🗡️📚🌊🐱
June 9, 2024
This book deserves all the love and praise it's getting. And even more.
I am not a fantasy reader in the slightest, but this cozy fantasy queer romance book had me sitting on the edge of my seat with my heart pounding out of love for these characters.
The amazing author is self-published, but the quality and writing of this story you would think she is traditionally published. I adored this. I can't wait for more works from this author!!
I am not a fantasy reader in the slightest, but this cozy fantasy queer romance book had me sitting on the edge of my seat with my heart pounding out of love for these characters.
The amazing author is self-published, but the quality and writing of this story you would think she is traditionally published. I adored this. I can't wait for more works from this author!!
July 3, 2024
I enjoyed this cozy fantasy! It was delightful running around with Ari and Finn as they find themselves in the perfect place to settle down. We love fulfilling the dream of opening a bookshop on the seaside! I wish there was a little bit more of why they fell in love. Also the third act conflict was not exactly what I would've hoped but it ended in a very sweet place. I am looking forward to reading more of this author!
August 1, 2023
4.5 stars.
I keep saying I’ll challenge myself and read outside of my normal genres and finally did! And I’m so happy it was through A Second Story.
A cozy fantasy about life after the happily ever after, A Second Story follows Ari and Finn as they put down roots in sleepy Arrowmount by buying a bookstore. This is the story of after the HEA, a tale of working with your partner while navigating the ups and downs of life and coming together. I LOVED this plot because as an avid romance reader, I’m always fantasizing about what life is like for my favorite couples after the book ends.
I appreciated that this was a low stress fantasy, and much more of a slower paced, comfort read, so I recommend it for people wanting to dip their toes into the genre. The author excelled in world building. This is something that intimidates me with fantasy novels, yet I didn’t lose track of details here and had a firm grasp of the beautiful setting (I loved the map and glossary as a supplement). I was surprised by how quickly I read it. Add to your fall TBR—this book should be enjoyed on a comfortable couch with a mug of tea and your favorite blanket.
Read if you love: cozy fantasy, queer couple, found family.
I keep saying I’ll challenge myself and read outside of my normal genres and finally did! And I’m so happy it was through A Second Story.
A cozy fantasy about life after the happily ever after, A Second Story follows Ari and Finn as they put down roots in sleepy Arrowmount by buying a bookstore. This is the story of after the HEA, a tale of working with your partner while navigating the ups and downs of life and coming together. I LOVED this plot because as an avid romance reader, I’m always fantasizing about what life is like for my favorite couples after the book ends.
I appreciated that this was a low stress fantasy, and much more of a slower paced, comfort read, so I recommend it for people wanting to dip their toes into the genre. The author excelled in world building. This is something that intimidates me with fantasy novels, yet I didn’t lose track of details here and had a firm grasp of the beautiful setting (I loved the map and glossary as a supplement). I was surprised by how quickly I read it. Add to your fall TBR—this book should be enjoyed on a comfortable couch with a mug of tea and your favorite blanket.
Read if you love: cozy fantasy, queer couple, found family.
January 26, 2025
This one was so cutesy!! It was very reminiscent of Legends and Lattes, with what mightve even been a reference!? But I really really loved Finn and Ari. And their bookstore! This was the perfect lighthearted read amidst the panic of college, and a world I can definitely see myself returning to in the future
May 5, 2023
Wow is all I can say. This is SO GOOD! The descriptions and atmosphere are so rich. I felt like I was immersed into Arrowmount alongside Ari & Finn! Definitely recommend!
Thanks to Jenn for the ARC! I’m so excited for my physical copy to arrive!
Thanks to Jenn for the ARC! I’m so excited for my physical copy to arrive!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews