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Clairborne Family #1
Second Chance in Paradise
A first love that deserves a second chance.
Doctoral student Holland Reeves may have aced every class she’s ever taken, but when it comes to life outside her lab, she finds she has more meaningful relationships with test tubes and pipettes than she does with people. That all changes when a surprise wedding invitation arrives, forcing her to return to the small coastal town of Paradise and the Clairborne Resort, where she left her first dream of being Mrs. Clairborne to begin the dream of becoming Dr. Reeves. There she must face her past and, to her surprise, the only man she ever loved, Porter Clairborne, the prodigal son who has unexpectedly returned.
Together, Holland and Porter must decide if their love deserves a second chance, and if Paradise will finally live up to its name or forever remain a town of broken dreams.
Doctoral student Holland Reeves may have aced every class she’s ever taken, but when it comes to life outside her lab, she finds she has more meaningful relationships with test tubes and pipettes than she does with people. That all changes when a surprise wedding invitation arrives, forcing her to return to the small coastal town of Paradise and the Clairborne Resort, where she left her first dream of being Mrs. Clairborne to begin the dream of becoming Dr. Reeves. There she must face her past and, to her surprise, the only man she ever loved, Porter Clairborne, the prodigal son who has unexpectedly returned.
Together, Holland and Porter must decide if their love deserves a second chance, and if Paradise will finally live up to its name or forever remain a town of broken dreams.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 16, 2023
About the author
Jennifer Peel
70 books1,547 followersJennifer Peel is a USA Today bestselling author who didn’t grow up wanting to be a writer, she was aiming for something more realistic like being the first female president. When that didn’t work out, she started writing just before her fortieth birthday. Now after publishing several award-winning and bestselling novels she’s addicted to typing and chocolate. When she’s not glued to her laptop and a bag of Dove dark chocolates, she loves spending time with her family, making daily Target runs, reading, and pretending she can do Zumba.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
May 26, 2018
All the feels! I don't know how, it must be some kind of writer magic, but this author totally sucked me into Holland's mind and I felt all the emotion right along with her- uncertainty, angst, compassion, hope, and joy. It's even more impressive because Holland is such a different person that I normally wouldn't relate to- her scientific approach to everything, her quirky random science facts at inopportune moments, her coping mechanism of reciting the periodic table- became endearing and funny. It really worked for me to see her use those methods to sort through the tension (emotional and romantic) and face her long-repressed feelings in order to determine if she has a future with Porter.
Porter was such a great leading man- so charming, but well-balanced by humility as he seeks to make restitution for his past choices. I loved his determination to win Holland's trust and love again, and I loved even more that she made him work for it, but not in a mean way, just that he really needed to prove himself with actions to back up his words. I absolutely loved his family and the important role they play in Holland opening herself up to love and affection. His stepmother Natalie was especially integral to drawing Holland out and giving her a confidant and mother figure that was missing from her life. I'm so thrilled that there is a follow-up book with Natalie and Beau's story!!!
The romantic tension and chemistry was off-the-hook, and there is plenty of romance as Holland and Porter's relationship progresses from distant memories to much, much more. I appreciate that the special moments balanced sensual with respectful, and while the physical attraction was palpable, the focus was on the emotional connection of the relationship. All the little details and mannerisms made this story one that I savored and literally couldn't put down. Highly recommend!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
Porter was such a great leading man- so charming, but well-balanced by humility as he seeks to make restitution for his past choices. I loved his determination to win Holland's trust and love again, and I loved even more that she made him work for it, but not in a mean way, just that he really needed to prove himself with actions to back up his words. I absolutely loved his family and the important role they play in Holland opening herself up to love and affection. His stepmother Natalie was especially integral to drawing Holland out and giving her a confidant and mother figure that was missing from her life. I'm so thrilled that there is a follow-up book with Natalie and Beau's story!!!
The romantic tension and chemistry was off-the-hook, and there is plenty of romance as Holland and Porter's relationship progresses from distant memories to much, much more. I appreciate that the special moments balanced sensual with respectful, and while the physical attraction was palpable, the focus was on the emotional connection of the relationship. All the little details and mannerisms made this story one that I savored and literally couldn't put down. Highly recommend!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
July 25, 2018
This was a sweet second chance at love romance.
Holland Reeves is a nerdy, but charming girl from the "wrong side of town" who happened to fall in love with the boss's son, Porter Clairborne. Their young love was sweet and over all too quickly. Broken up by Porter's rash actions, they've spent the past seven years apart. I thought this was a pleasant read, Holland basically comes from nothing, but works hard to achieve her dreams. Even if that means pushing everyone away. It was nice to see her character soften and see her allow people to take care of her for a change. The romance was sweet and it was fun seeing Holland and Porter reconnect. As always, there are a lot of layers to the story and different relationships being built, which makes for a nice well-rounded story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It was easy to escape into the pages and picture the charming resort town of Paradise. I look forward to reading more in this series!
Content
Romance: Clean, kisses
Language: None
Violence: None
Religious: Very mild
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Holland Reeves is a nerdy, but charming girl from the "wrong side of town" who happened to fall in love with the boss's son, Porter Clairborne. Their young love was sweet and over all too quickly. Broken up by Porter's rash actions, they've spent the past seven years apart. I thought this was a pleasant read, Holland basically comes from nothing, but works hard to achieve her dreams. Even if that means pushing everyone away. It was nice to see her character soften and see her allow people to take care of her for a change. The romance was sweet and it was fun seeing Holland and Porter reconnect. As always, there are a lot of layers to the story and different relationships being built, which makes for a nice well-rounded story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this one. It was easy to escape into the pages and picture the charming resort town of Paradise. I look forward to reading more in this series!
Content
Romance: Clean, kisses
Language: None
Violence: None
Religious: Very mild
Source: Kindle Unlimited
February 9, 2024
Holland knew from a young age that no one loved or wanted her. Growing up, life had taught her some hard lessons. Never trust easily, never depend on anyone but herself and disappointment is inevitable.
But from the moment she met Porter she thought maybe, just maybe her life would get better. She slowly let her guard down and found herself falling in love with him. He had already said those three magical words to her but she was too scared to reciprocate. When she finally got up enough courage to tell him she loved him, she found him kissing someone else and her world came crashing down around her.
Lost and heartbroken, Holland cuts all ties with Paradise. Experience has shown her that nothing lasts forever and the only person she can rely on is herself. She refuses to become a victim of her circumstances. She is determined to be better than where she came from.
It has been almost 8 years since she left Paradise and she has no desire to return. But when a surprise wedding invitation arrives she has a choice to make. Send a gift and a card of well wishes to her old friend or go back and face what made her run all those years ago. She decides it's time to face her past so she can finally say goodbye to what could have been with Porter and move on with her life.
However, fate has something else in store for her.
Porter hasn't been back in Paradise since that dreaded night Holland saw him being kissed. He saw the heartbreak in her eyes and knew that he had crushed her. He knows he's a jerk for not setting the record straight on what really happened but he needed to leave in order to prove himself. He meant what he told Holland.. their relationship might not take the path that they want it to, but there would never be an end to them.
Now that they are both back in Paradise, Porter has his work cut out for him when it comes to winning Holland back. All the years of hurt and disappointment has given her tunnel vision. But Porter is more than ready to step up to the challenge. He has never stopped loving her and is determined to show her that she does not have to do it all on her own. He wants her to see that it's okay to rely on others around her. He wants to be there to cheer her on and lift her up. He will show her that she is loved, she is wanted and she does have a family.
But with everything that has happened, will Holland run again? Or will she open her heart again and give love a second chance?
*dreamy sigh*
Oh how I ADORE Holland and Porter! These two quickly became favorites of mine! I loved everything about this book! The feels were definitely real! I found myself busting out laughing, getting teary eyed, growling in frustration and letting out little dreamy sighs throughout the entire book!
And I just realized as I typed those words that I have done that in every single book of Jennifer Peel's I have ever read and I love it! It shows true talent when an author can suck you in to a book and make reality disappear while you're reading. It's something that all bookworms love! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
*dreamy sigh* I am loving this casting! These two right here are perfect in my opinion! But then again, I may be just a tad bit bias! Haha. What do you think?
But from the moment she met Porter she thought maybe, just maybe her life would get better. She slowly let her guard down and found herself falling in love with him. He had already said those three magical words to her but she was too scared to reciprocate. When she finally got up enough courage to tell him she loved him, she found him kissing someone else and her world came crashing down around her.
Lost and heartbroken, Holland cuts all ties with Paradise. Experience has shown her that nothing lasts forever and the only person she can rely on is herself. She refuses to become a victim of her circumstances. She is determined to be better than where she came from.
It has been almost 8 years since she left Paradise and she has no desire to return. But when a surprise wedding invitation arrives she has a choice to make. Send a gift and a card of well wishes to her old friend or go back and face what made her run all those years ago. She decides it's time to face her past so she can finally say goodbye to what could have been with Porter and move on with her life.
However, fate has something else in store for her.
Porter hasn't been back in Paradise since that dreaded night Holland saw him being kissed. He saw the heartbreak in her eyes and knew that he had crushed her. He knows he's a jerk for not setting the record straight on what really happened but he needed to leave in order to prove himself. He meant what he told Holland.. their relationship might not take the path that they want it to, but there would never be an end to them.
Now that they are both back in Paradise, Porter has his work cut out for him when it comes to winning Holland back. All the years of hurt and disappointment has given her tunnel vision. But Porter is more than ready to step up to the challenge. He has never stopped loving her and is determined to show her that she does not have to do it all on her own. He wants her to see that it's okay to rely on others around her. He wants to be there to cheer her on and lift her up. He will show her that she is loved, she is wanted and she does have a family.
But with everything that has happened, will Holland run again? Or will she open her heart again and give love a second chance?
*dreamy sigh*
Oh how I ADORE Holland and Porter! These two quickly became favorites of mine! I loved everything about this book! The feels were definitely real! I found myself busting out laughing, getting teary eyed, growling in frustration and letting out little dreamy sighs throughout the entire book!
And I just realized as I typed those words that I have done that in every single book of Jennifer Peel's I have ever read and I love it! It shows true talent when an author can suck you in to a book and make reality disappear while you're reading. It's something that all bookworms love! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
*dreamy sigh* I am loving this casting! These two right here are perfect in my opinion! But then again, I may be just a tad bit bias! Haha. What do you think?
May 6, 2018
Jennifer Peel has proven once again why she is one of my very favorite authors. She has such a way of creating characters that I am both interested and invested in. And honestly, a little attached to as well. I loved Porter and Holland separately but mostly together. This is one of my favorite second chance at first love stories!
This book should come with a WARNING: may cause an influx of endorphins, a lack of desire to do anything but read and a severe book hangover. Get ready for an emotion filled, chemistry charged story because Jennifer Peel has done it again! I couldn't put it down. LOVE!!
This book should come with a WARNING: may cause an influx of endorphins, a lack of desire to do anything but read and a severe book hangover. Get ready for an emotion filled, chemistry charged story because Jennifer Peel has done it again! I couldn't put it down. LOVE!!
May 2, 2018
Second Chance in Paradise proves once again why I keep Jennifer at the top of my must-read list. She never disappoints. Clean romance with swoon-worthy heroes, fabulous settings, and fast-moving storylines make her books land on my favorites list.
Loaded with humor Second Chance in Paradise was a great escape. I adored the characters and loved the setting. This second chance love story is one you don't want to miss!
Loaded with humor Second Chance in Paradise was a great escape. I adored the characters and loved the setting. This second chance love story is one you don't want to miss!
April 16, 2025
One of the many reasons I love this author is because her books have such an undertone of hope, perseverance and joy. And as a clean romance writer, it isn’t spicy, but the chemistry makes up for that. It’s like a comfort read for me.
Holland had a very tumultuous upbringing, never really knowing what it meant to be loved. When she was 18, all that changed when she met Porter. The resort where she worked - Owner’s son. It was very golden boy and girl from the wrong side of the tracks romance. But life happened, and Porter left to go find himself in the world, and Holland was just, alone. Now, years later, Holland is working hard on her doctorate and has no life outside of her lab. Isolated by choice, she gets a wake up call when she is peer pressured to go back home to an old friend’s wedding. Who does she run into - but the man she never fully forgot, who massively broke her heart. But turns out, he never forgot her either. So begins a second chance romance, and finding out if the past should just stay in the past, or move forward into the future.
Holland had a very tumultuous upbringing, never really knowing what it meant to be loved. When she was 18, all that changed when she met Porter. The resort where she worked - Owner’s son. It was very golden boy and girl from the wrong side of the tracks romance. But life happened, and Porter left to go find himself in the world, and Holland was just, alone. Now, years later, Holland is working hard on her doctorate and has no life outside of her lab. Isolated by choice, she gets a wake up call when she is peer pressured to go back home to an old friend’s wedding. Who does she run into - but the man she never fully forgot, who massively broke her heart. But turns out, he never forgot her either. So begins a second chance romance, and finding out if the past should just stay in the past, or move forward into the future.
October 25, 2018
Jennifer Peel always delivers a beautifully emotional story with perfectly imperfect characters. I loved Holland and Porter's story, which is a Cinderella tale, of sorts.
Growing up, Holland didn't have much of a family and never really felt that much-needed love. Working at an Alabama resort gave her Porter, the owner's son, but she lost him. If anyone deserves a second chance at love, it's this couple.
Holland is very hesitant, with good reason, and she's a lot like a pineapple--a little prickly on the outside, but very sweet once you get past that outer layer. I loved watching those layers peel away, revealing her true, sweet self. Porter is a charmer, for sure. It's all his fault that they broke up the first time, yet he comes waltzing back into Holland's life like nothing ever happened. It doesn't take long to throw all of those bad feelings right out the window though. Porter's family is the best and I loved them all!
The Cinderella story really develops as the sparks fly and the romance progresses and this book is a fairy tale come true. I was swept away and completely caught up into this captivating love story, which made my heart sing and my soul smile. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more about this wonderful family.
Content: mild romance (kissing, some innuendo); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Growing up, Holland didn't have much of a family and never really felt that much-needed love. Working at an Alabama resort gave her Porter, the owner's son, but she lost him. If anyone deserves a second chance at love, it's this couple.
Holland is very hesitant, with good reason, and she's a lot like a pineapple--a little prickly on the outside, but very sweet once you get past that outer layer. I loved watching those layers peel away, revealing her true, sweet self. Porter is a charmer, for sure. It's all his fault that they broke up the first time, yet he comes waltzing back into Holland's life like nothing ever happened. It doesn't take long to throw all of those bad feelings right out the window though. Porter's family is the best and I loved them all!
The Cinderella story really develops as the sparks fly and the romance progresses and this book is a fairy tale come true. I was swept away and completely caught up into this captivating love story, which made my heart sing and my soul smile. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more about this wonderful family.
Content: mild romance (kissing, some innuendo); mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
July 14, 2018
As a fan of Jennifer Peel, I am sad to say that I differ from the vast majority who awarded five stars for this offering. I see no need to be redundant. A brief scan of the five-star reviews will reveal ample, accurate positive reasons to praise this work. I recommend these reviews and echo most of their findings. The single element that caused the loss of a fifth star for my review was the lack of reality in having Holland Reeves consistently use scientific names for the human anatomy – creating frequent visits to my dictionary application (a good thing). However, the Ph.D. she seeks is in Pharmacology, not a field with massive anatomical interest. The many medical doctors of my acquaintance may know the scientific terms, but they do not use them in everyday situations. I recognize that Ms. Peel is attempting to show Holland’s isolation and withdrawal from normal human relationships, but it came across to me as massively overdone and unbelievable. I confess that the random scientific facts Holland spouts were delightsome. In summary, it is with enthusiasm that I endorse the conclusions of my five-star reviewer colleagues – this is a great clean romance offering by Jennifer Peel and is worthy of enthusiastic recommendation.
January 21, 2023
“You Left.”
-‘In two years, I could write my own ticket when I received my PhD in pharmacology. And more importantly, figure out a better way to treat cardiovascular disease and hopefully save some lives. It was going to happen. I was confident. Mostly.’-
First, I have to say I loved the humour in this story. I laughed a lot, which is always a bonus when I’m trying to escape reality with a book.
Second, I loved the story itself.
Holland had such a rough start in life, yet she’s brilliant, strong, resilient, deserving of so much more than life has handed her...Porter is rich, gorgeous, athletic, charming, intelligent, and has had everything handed to him in life so easily. He was a jerk. But then he redeemed himself. (His kisses are hot enough to make your toes curl and he has a serious ability to make any woman melt...)
-‘He left and he had taken something with him. Something I valued more than anything, even my education. He took love—his, and all that I had to give.’-
Great writing, as always, by this author. It’s clean (no sex, no swearing), it’s romantic, it’s fast-paced, it’s fun, the characters are super cute. With all that good stuff, what’s not to like? I’m sold! I highly recommend this book. I think this is one of her best works... although I think I say that about everything she writes... One thing’s for sure - I will be reading this again, and again...
-‘In two years, I could write my own ticket when I received my PhD in pharmacology. And more importantly, figure out a better way to treat cardiovascular disease and hopefully save some lives. It was going to happen. I was confident. Mostly.’-
First, I have to say I loved the humour in this story. I laughed a lot, which is always a bonus when I’m trying to escape reality with a book.
Second, I loved the story itself.
Holland had such a rough start in life, yet she’s brilliant, strong, resilient, deserving of so much more than life has handed her...Porter is rich, gorgeous, athletic, charming, intelligent, and has had everything handed to him in life so easily. He was a jerk. But then he redeemed himself. (His kisses are hot enough to make your toes curl and he has a serious ability to make any woman melt...)
-‘He left and he had taken something with him. Something I valued more than anything, even my education. He took love—his, and all that I had to give.’-
Great writing, as always, by this author. It’s clean (no sex, no swearing), it’s romantic, it’s fast-paced, it’s fun, the characters are super cute. With all that good stuff, what’s not to like? I’m sold! I highly recommend this book. I think this is one of her best works... although I think I say that about everything she writes... One thing’s for sure - I will be reading this again, and again...
May 8, 2018
Another great Jennifer Peel read.
Read
May 27, 2019DNF 40%
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Boring...
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Boring...
February 12, 2024
*Audiobook Review within the asterisks*
I just listened to the Audiobook and LOVED it!!!
Stefanie Kay is a favorite narrator. It makes me so happy when I hear her voice narrating books that I love! She did a fantastic job bringing Holland and Porter's story to life! I loved sitting back and listening to her bring the angst and heartache and joy to life between these two! Another win!*
My heart! And eyes!!!! Y'all I cried so much reading this one! But I loved it!
Holland is such a strong heroine. Yet she doesn't realize how strong she is. She's had lots of hard in her life. Holy cow!!!! Crazy hard! And yet, she has dreams and pursues them to their fullest! And when she's down, she just keeps working her way upward. But man, the tears!!!
And Porter! Oh my heavens! I sometimes wanted to just knock some sense in him. But I know his parents and sister did too! So there is that! But then he starts explaining. And that helps. But then some of his choices take me back to wanting to knock some sense in him again! Hahah!!! I'm not a violent person. But something about these clueless heroes makes me want to tell them the what's what!!!
But let's just say that I loved it! I really did. There's sooo much goodness in here. I loved the love stories! You'll have to read it or listen to it to understand!!!
Content: Some innuendos. Kisses (making out) but nothing further.
My own personal copy.
Happy Reading/Listening!!!
I just listened to the Audiobook and LOVED it!!!
Stefanie Kay is a favorite narrator. It makes me so happy when I hear her voice narrating books that I love! She did a fantastic job bringing Holland and Porter's story to life! I loved sitting back and listening to her bring the angst and heartache and joy to life between these two! Another win!*
My heart! And eyes!!!! Y'all I cried so much reading this one! But I loved it!
Holland is such a strong heroine. Yet she doesn't realize how strong she is. She's had lots of hard in her life. Holy cow!!!! Crazy hard! And yet, she has dreams and pursues them to their fullest! And when she's down, she just keeps working her way upward. But man, the tears!!!
And Porter! Oh my heavens! I sometimes wanted to just knock some sense in him. But I know his parents and sister did too! So there is that! But then he starts explaining. And that helps. But then some of his choices take me back to wanting to knock some sense in him again! Hahah!!! I'm not a violent person. But something about these clueless heroes makes me want to tell them the what's what!!!
But let's just say that I loved it! I really did. There's sooo much goodness in here. I loved the love stories! You'll have to read it or listen to it to understand!!!
Content: Some innuendos. Kisses (making out) but nothing further.
My own personal copy.
Happy Reading/Listening!!!
June 22, 2023
Two people, with very different backgrounds, whose paths crossed once. I fell in love with Porter and Holland and their story! Holland is such a great character- she is smart, dedicated, perseveres, and logically methodical when it comes to her approach to life and relationships. I loved how her brain worked and the quirky comparisons she always made!
Porter was a great hero- coming back to a place that holds many different memories for him and trying to make amends can’t be easy. But there is more to this story than first appears, and I loved the added depth it gave to his character. And goodness- the romance was toe-curling and oh-so-swoon-worthy!
As always, this was a fantastic clean romance, and another great book by Jennifer Peel. I think I may have found a new favorite book, and hope there are more to come!
**I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
Porter was a great hero- coming back to a place that holds many different memories for him and trying to make amends can’t be easy. But there is more to this story than first appears, and I loved the added depth it gave to his character. And goodness- the romance was toe-curling and oh-so-swoon-worthy!
As always, this was a fantastic clean romance, and another great book by Jennifer Peel. I think I may have found a new favorite book, and hope there are more to come!
**I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
July 31, 2024
4.5; in my humble opinion this is what romance should read like.
May 7, 2018
I loved this newest from Jennifer Peel. Second Chance in Paradise is a fun filled adventure. I love Holland and her strength. I love Porter and his tenacity. This is one of those books I couldn't put down even in the wee hours of the morning. Jennifer's characters always seem real to me. They have depth and feeling. Which is why she is one of my auto-buy authors.
Thanks Jennifer for another book I'll re-read over and over.
Thanks Jennifer for another book I'll re-read over and over.
May 12, 2018
This new one by Jennifer Peel was a fun one. No surprise there. She’s a great storyteller in the romance genre. This one is a second chance trope set in a gorgeous setting in Paradise, Alabama. Holland is a brilliant scientist working on her doctorate degree. She comes from a rough background where she never felt any love from family or those who should have cared for her. She’s always focused on her studies to fill the emptiness within her. Except for a summer she spent working at the Claibourne hotel in Paradise when she was in high school and met Porter, the owner’s son. He taught her how it felt to be loved…before he broke her heart and she fled Paradise forever. But circumstances bring her back eight years later…and she meets Porter again for a second shot at love…if she dares take it. The risk to her heart might be more than her scientific brain can allow.
This story made me smile. The characters are fun and lovable, The romantic tension is clean, yet steamy. The side characters added great dimension and reality to the plot. The setting is gorgeous and fun to immerse yourself in. The character growth made this poignant and touching. It’s an all-around solid, good romance that is perfect for the beach or wherever you might be when you need a heart-lift. I highly recommend this, and any of the rest of Jennifer Peel’s books. They do a heart good.
This story made me smile. The characters are fun and lovable, The romantic tension is clean, yet steamy. The side characters added great dimension and reality to the plot. The setting is gorgeous and fun to immerse yourself in. The character growth made this poignant and touching. It’s an all-around solid, good romance that is perfect for the beach or wherever you might be when you need a heart-lift. I highly recommend this, and any of the rest of Jennifer Peel’s books. They do a heart good.
July 22, 2018
It took me a bit to get into this book, not because I wasn’t enjoying the story, but because I had a hard time connecting with Holland. In the beginning, her personality is a bit prickly but thankfully she softens up later on.
Also, I would like to point out, that it took 6 whole chapters before Porter came into the scenes, but at least it was well worth the wait. ;)
All in all, it was a sweet story with endearing characters (especially Natalie)...and I was happy with how it ended.
Also, I would like to point out, that it took 6 whole chapters before Porter came into the scenes, but at least it was well worth the wait. ;)
All in all, it was a sweet story with endearing characters (especially Natalie)...and I was happy with how it ended.
February 10, 2024
I should probably stop listening/reading this author’s books - I have often found them schmaltzy and over-the-top silly. It’s just that she’s written some really good, really profound stories and I keep hoping to come across others like her More Than a Wife series. So far, all the ones with the cutesy illustrated covers haven’t been it. 😩
May 6, 2018
So good you just can't put the book down.
Holland is quirky and brilliant. Porter a true Southern gentleman with tricks up his sleeves to win back his one true love. With help from great other characters. This book is full of quirks, tears, laughter and swooning.
Holland is quirky and brilliant. Porter a true Southern gentleman with tricks up his sleeves to win back his one true love. With help from great other characters. This book is full of quirks, tears, laughter and swooning.
February 18, 2019
3.5/5.0
Not one of my favorites but it still holds all that makes Ms. Peel’s stories magical.
Not one of my favorites but it still holds all that makes Ms. Peel’s stories magical.
May 11, 2018
This was a really fun book to read. I look forward to the next one in the series.
May 8, 2018
I loved this book. Nothing better in my mind than a sweet love story. This one was about a handsome southern boy and the love of his life that he regretfully let go while in college. Now, years later, he had to work to to win her back. This book was written in first person from the heroine's point of view. It worked beautifully. I thought Holland was precious. And even though it was her pov, you knew exactly what Porter was thinking and feeling. All the characters were well developed and very likeable.Mrs. Peel is a favorite author of mine. I love clean romances and she has never disappointed me. I look forward to the other books in the series.
*I was given an ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
*I was given an ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
August 12, 2018
Second Chance in Paradise by Jennifer Peel
A good clean romance
Holland’s first foray into Paradise was as a teenager when she worked at the Clairborne Resort. When she fell in love with Porter Clairborne. When she had her heart broken right there on the beautiful white sands of the Gulf of Mexico.
What an interesting character Holland was! Most likely because of her tragic childhood, she threw herself wholeheartedly into her studies and was a brilliant student. She had a quirky habit of reciting the Periodic Table of Elements when she got nervous, spouted random facts at the most awkward times (like right before a kiss!), and referred to almost everything by its scientific name. She was the epitome of the stereotypical, geeky, scientific nerd with the exception being that she was beautiful.
Porter was the spoiled rich kid, yet he felt that he could never gain his father’s approval and so he escaped from the family as soon as he was old enough. He was handsome, confident (mostly), and determined to win Holland back. I loved the way he wouldn’t take no for an answer when he tried to get her to spend time with him.
My favorite character, however, was his step-mom, who had a heart of gold. The way she embraced Holland and befriended her was so touching. And the way she pretended she didn’t know the secret her husband and step-son thought they were keeping from her was so cute.
I especially loved the way that not only was Holland and Porter’s story told here, but also the romance between his father and stepmother. The way they were incorporated into the story was perfect.
As with all of Jennifer Peel’s books, there was great conflict, humor, and swoon-worthy romance. Just be aware that the kisses are described in detail and the characters talk about the physical desire they have for one another. Yet as with all her books, there is a determination by the characters to remain pure until marriage and the story is a clean read.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I purchased this book.
A good clean romance
Holland’s first foray into Paradise was as a teenager when she worked at the Clairborne Resort. When she fell in love with Porter Clairborne. When she had her heart broken right there on the beautiful white sands of the Gulf of Mexico.
What an interesting character Holland was! Most likely because of her tragic childhood, she threw herself wholeheartedly into her studies and was a brilliant student. She had a quirky habit of reciting the Periodic Table of Elements when she got nervous, spouted random facts at the most awkward times (like right before a kiss!), and referred to almost everything by its scientific name. She was the epitome of the stereotypical, geeky, scientific nerd with the exception being that she was beautiful.
Porter was the spoiled rich kid, yet he felt that he could never gain his father’s approval and so he escaped from the family as soon as he was old enough. He was handsome, confident (mostly), and determined to win Holland back. I loved the way he wouldn’t take no for an answer when he tried to get her to spend time with him.
My favorite character, however, was his step-mom, who had a heart of gold. The way she embraced Holland and befriended her was so touching. And the way she pretended she didn’t know the secret her husband and step-son thought they were keeping from her was so cute.
I especially loved the way that not only was Holland and Porter’s story told here, but also the romance between his father and stepmother. The way they were incorporated into the story was perfect.
As with all of Jennifer Peel’s books, there was great conflict, humor, and swoon-worthy romance. Just be aware that the kisses are described in detail and the characters talk about the physical desire they have for one another. Yet as with all her books, there is a determination by the characters to remain pure until marriage and the story is a clean read.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I purchased this book.
February 21, 2024
Jennifer Peel's books have become some of my favorite reads. Her writing makes you fall into the characters, and you just understand them.
This is a very sweet second chance romance between Holland and Porter. Holland didn't have the perfect family life and met Porter when she was working at his family's resort. They had a whirlwind romance that ended poorly, but they never forgot each other.
Holland finds herself back at the resort for a friend's wedding, where she bumps into Porter's parents and ends up having to stay the night at their home. She is reconnected with Porter, who she hasn't seen in years, and finally, they face each other after a huge mistake made by Porter.
Porter is determined to win back Holland. He is the one person who has shown Holland what love can feel like.
🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷
I loved Holland and her nerdy facts, along with her seeing there is more to life than her work (she is studying for Ph.D.).
I also adored Porter's family, and the book shows that not everyone is perfect, but the bumps make it worth it in the end 🩷
This is a very sweet second chance romance between Holland and Porter. Holland didn't have the perfect family life and met Porter when she was working at his family's resort. They had a whirlwind romance that ended poorly, but they never forgot each other.
Holland finds herself back at the resort for a friend's wedding, where she bumps into Porter's parents and ends up having to stay the night at their home. She is reconnected with Porter, who she hasn't seen in years, and finally, they face each other after a huge mistake made by Porter.
Porter is determined to win back Holland. He is the one person who has shown Holland what love can feel like.
🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷🌸🩷
I loved Holland and her nerdy facts, along with her seeing there is more to life than her work (she is studying for Ph.D.).
I also adored Porter's family, and the book shows that not everyone is perfect, but the bumps make it worth it in the end 🩷
July 18, 2018
In Second Chance in Paradise by Jennifer Peel, Holland Reeves is a young scientist who has devoted her life to earning her Ph.D. in pharmacology and to one day defeating heart disease. Her pursuit of this lofty goal is also an attempt to cure the aches and pains of her own heart—a desperately lonely childhood and a devasting end to the one chance she had at love. With the arrival of a wedding invitation, Holland finds herself back at the Clairborne Resort in Paradise, Alabama, the very place she gave and lost her heart to Porter Clairborne, the son of the resort owners. While Holland and Porter quickly understand that their feelings are as strong as ever, questions remain. Can Porter make amends for leaving? Can Holland’s heart defeat the logic of her analytical brain to give love a second try?
Second Chance in Paradise by Jennifer Peel is one of those romances reminiscent of the memories of one’s first love—the one that just pulls at your heart no matter how much distance there is between you, or how much time has elapsed. The feelings between Holland and Porter are palpable, even after the pair have gone their very separate ways. When circumstances pull them back together, their feelings are obvious to everyone, but it’s a risk to love again. Beyond the love story, there is a powerful, interwoven story associated with their family backgrounds. Both seem to understand that to have a future, they not only have to deal with their own past, but that of their families, too. The familial aspect adds a meaningful depth and richness to their story. Second Chance in Paradise is an engaging and quick read, one that will affect you long after you finish the last page. Highly recommended for lovers of romance!
Second Chance in Paradise by Jennifer Peel is one of those romances reminiscent of the memories of one’s first love—the one that just pulls at your heart no matter how much distance there is between you, or how much time has elapsed. The feelings between Holland and Porter are palpable, even after the pair have gone their very separate ways. When circumstances pull them back together, their feelings are obvious to everyone, but it’s a risk to love again. Beyond the love story, there is a powerful, interwoven story associated with their family backgrounds. Both seem to understand that to have a future, they not only have to deal with their own past, but that of their families, too. The familial aspect adds a meaningful depth and richness to their story. Second Chance in Paradise is an engaging and quick read, one that will affect you long after you finish the last page. Highly recommended for lovers of romance!
May 3, 2018
Another great story by Jennifer Peel! She has definitely become my favorite author - I always feel so connected to her characters, and this book was no exception.
I loved all of Holland's quirkiness, and I loved that Porter loved her quirkiness. I felt smarter after reading all the facts she threw out during the book, and I cannot wait to read the other stories in this series!
Content: Clean
Source: ARC copy (opinion is 100% my own)
I loved all of Holland's quirkiness, and I loved that Porter loved her quirkiness. I felt smarter after reading all the facts she threw out during the book, and I cannot wait to read the other stories in this series!
Content: Clean
Source: ARC copy (opinion is 100% my own)
May 10, 2018
I loved this book! Holland is so fun and quirky. I loved her random scientific facts. Porter had made mistakes and he was determine to correct them. I loved his determination. This book was so fun! I could not put it down. I think this is my favorite book so far and I have really liked all Jennifer Peel's books.
May 28, 2018
Another great one from Jennifer Peel!
February 29, 2020
Loved this one! I love a strong and nerdy female lead.
May 15, 2023
Dnf @ 78%
Truthfully I wanted to stop at the half mark but I put a little more trust into this book.
But hell naw.
I’m all for second chance romance, but what I’m NOT is doormat x fucker romance. Heroine was so fucking boring, sure she’s a scientist bla bla bla good for her getting her PhD but then she went to the wedding and suddenly it was like she’d gone to fantasy land.
This book was very much unrealistic and stupid.
Hero let himself being kissed by another girl, and he FELT RELIEVED when the heroine saw him. She was about to tell him she loved him, too. She, who had never known love, and was very cautious about letting herself fall, was ready to say the words to him and he FELT RELIEVED WHEN SHE SAW HIM WITH ANOTHER GIRL? Wow. That’s the fucker.
She was right to be cautious. Men are fucking dumbshit STUPID FUCKERS
(takes a deep breath) (calming myself)
Okay and then when her life suddenly turned into a fairytale she was like “I’m going to forget about him” “i’m going to move on now” then bam fucker said some nice things, and acted with regret shown in his face and she was already soft she didn’t even say no okay maybe she did but just once she HAD NO BACKBONE WHATSOEVER UGH. And what’s with everyone else having opinions on HER life and DECIDING FOR HER? Like hero’s mom insisted she stay at their bigass mansion and heroine’s supervisor threatened to throw her off the PhD programme if she didn’t spend time with her ex boyfriend of 7 years and a half who cheated on her and remained silent for the whole time without explanation whatsoever? Fuck you all. Fuck the heroine too for the doormat persona she was glorifying in 🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄
Then the “grovel” process. There was no grovelling much. He didn’t have to because she was already weak-kneed for him, following him allowing him to do everything without much protest I mean how dumb are you, girl? Also the hero dated a lot of women over the years but nO oNe WaS HeR hE neVeR CouLd FiNd aNyOne LiKe hEr but she didn’t date anyone in that time
BULLSHIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PATHETIC HERO WITH NO ACTIONS JUST WORDS. WORDS ARW NOTHING WITHOUT ACTIONS AND YOUR ACTIONS IN THE PAST HAVE DONE NOTHING TO MAKE YOU GOOD
ARGH!!!!!!!
So yeah. Doormat, meet Fucker. Goodbye
Truthfully I wanted to stop at the half mark but I put a little more trust into this book.
But hell naw.
I’m all for second chance romance, but what I’m NOT is doormat x fucker romance. Heroine was so fucking boring, sure she’s a scientist bla bla bla good for her getting her PhD but then she went to the wedding and suddenly it was like she’d gone to fantasy land.
This book was very much unrealistic and stupid.
Hero let himself being kissed by another girl, and he FELT RELIEVED when the heroine saw him. She was about to tell him she loved him, too. She, who had never known love, and was very cautious about letting herself fall, was ready to say the words to him and he FELT RELIEVED WHEN SHE SAW HIM WITH ANOTHER GIRL? Wow. That’s the fucker.
She was right to be cautious. Men are fucking dumbshit STUPID FUCKERS
(takes a deep breath) (calming myself)
Okay and then when her life suddenly turned into a fairytale she was like “I’m going to forget about him” “i’m going to move on now” then bam fucker said some nice things, and acted with regret shown in his face and she was already soft she didn’t even say no okay maybe she did but just once she HAD NO BACKBONE WHATSOEVER UGH. And what’s with everyone else having opinions on HER life and DECIDING FOR HER? Like hero’s mom insisted she stay at their bigass mansion and heroine’s supervisor threatened to throw her off the PhD programme if she didn’t spend time with her ex boyfriend of 7 years and a half who cheated on her and remained silent for the whole time without explanation whatsoever? Fuck you all. Fuck the heroine too for the doormat persona she was glorifying in 🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄
Then the “grovel” process. There was no grovelling much. He didn’t have to because she was already weak-kneed for him, following him allowing him to do everything without much protest I mean how dumb are you, girl? Also the hero dated a lot of women over the years but nO oNe WaS HeR hE neVeR CouLd FiNd aNyOne LiKe hEr but she didn’t date anyone in that time
BULLSHIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
PATHETIC HERO WITH NO ACTIONS JUST WORDS. WORDS ARW NOTHING WITHOUT ACTIONS AND YOUR ACTIONS IN THE PAST HAVE DONE NOTHING TO MAKE YOU GOOD
ARGH!!!!!!!
So yeah. Doormat, meet Fucker. Goodbye
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