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Guided to Love #1
The Widow's Guide to Second Chances
He’s always wanted her. She doesn’t do long term. Can he convince her to take a second chance on true love?
Devon Rayne has spent five years running from memories of the firefighter husband she lost. But when her grandmother’s will demands she return to take possession of her childhood home, she has no choice but to stay the required six months. She just needs everyone to leave her alone. And the scraggly dog that’s shown up is a definite no.
Paramedic Aaron Joseph wanted Devon the minute he saw her all those years ago. So when she falls at his feet–literally–her first day back, he figures his time has come. Lucky for him, he’s got the whole town on his side, from his meddling fire chief to some cantankerous old ladies. And the dog can definitely stay.
Aaron is ready to push past all his doubts for the woman he loves. Can Devon face her fears and open her heart to love a second time?
AUTHOR'S This is the first book in the Guided to Love small town romantic comedy series. If you enjoy sizzling sex scenes, small town shenanigans with nosy busybodies and a guaranteed happy ending, then this is the book for you!
Devon Rayne has spent five years running from memories of the firefighter husband she lost. But when her grandmother’s will demands she return to take possession of her childhood home, she has no choice but to stay the required six months. She just needs everyone to leave her alone. And the scraggly dog that’s shown up is a definite no.
Paramedic Aaron Joseph wanted Devon the minute he saw her all those years ago. So when she falls at his feet–literally–her first day back, he figures his time has come. Lucky for him, he’s got the whole town on his side, from his meddling fire chief to some cantankerous old ladies. And the dog can definitely stay.
Aaron is ready to push past all his doubts for the woman he loves. Can Devon face her fears and open her heart to love a second time?
AUTHOR'S This is the first book in the Guided to Love small town romantic comedy series. If you enjoy sizzling sex scenes, small town shenanigans with nosy busybodies and a guaranteed happy ending, then this is the book for you!
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2023
149 people are currently reading
1445 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Pepper
18 books205 followersSteamy romantic comedy and contemporary romance author. Hoarder of half-used notebooks. Boots enthusiast. Lover of fall. Also coffee. Lots of coffee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
March 23, 2023
Loved this! 🥰
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This sweet and spicy small-town romance drew me in from the first page, and I absolutely loved MCs Devon and Aaron (their chemistry was 🔥🔥🔥).
Ever since Devon Rayne lost her husband five years ago, she’s been running from her grief and her past. But when she’s forced to return to her hometown because of her late grandmother’s will, she finds a lot more waiting for her than buried memories. Aaron Joseph has had his eye on Devon for years, and now that she’s back in town, he finally might just have a chance with her. That is, if he can get her to stay.
If you love small-town romance with a whole lot of steam (and a side dish of meddlesome neighbors plus a mischievous doggy that will melt your heart 🐶), than definitely check this out!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This sweet and spicy small-town romance drew me in from the first page, and I absolutely loved MCs Devon and Aaron (their chemistry was 🔥🔥🔥).
Ever since Devon Rayne lost her husband five years ago, she’s been running from her grief and her past. But when she’s forced to return to her hometown because of her late grandmother’s will, she finds a lot more waiting for her than buried memories. Aaron Joseph has had his eye on Devon for years, and now that she’s back in town, he finally might just have a chance with her. That is, if he can get her to stay.
If you love small-town romance with a whole lot of steam (and a side dish of meddlesome neighbors plus a mischievous doggy that will melt your heart 🐶), than definitely check this out!
July 6, 2023
This is my fault for picking this up based on the colour of the cover. Also stuff your kindle day... betrayed.
Anyways, this was way more spice than I expected. Which is fine, but not a highlight for this book because nothing else makes sense lol.
The first 50% of this book is extremely slow and then in the last 30 pages, everything gets tied up and I'm left suffering whiplash.
The fmc is extremely self absorbed and has all the growth of her entire character arc in 10 pages near the end. Every side story has no solid resolution. The mmc was given some depth, but it doesn't even matter because there's barely any resolution to his problems either.
Even if you're writing a book 2, why would you have so many plot points that are left unanswered? Anyways, basically, this wasn't for me, and I suspect mainly just for small town romances + smut lovers.
Anyways, this was way more spice than I expected. Which is fine, but not a highlight for this book because nothing else makes sense lol.
The first 50% of this book is extremely slow and then in the last 30 pages, everything gets tied up and I'm left suffering whiplash.
The fmc is extremely self absorbed and has all the growth of her entire character arc in 10 pages near the end. Every side story has no solid resolution. The mmc was given some depth, but it doesn't even matter because there's barely any resolution to his problems either.
Even if you're writing a book 2, why would you have so many plot points that are left unanswered? Anyways, basically, this wasn't for me, and I suspect mainly just for small town romances + smut lovers.
July 26, 2023
Sweet. Cute. Forgettable.
I mean, don’t get me wrong. If you love a second chance romance, then you will devour this. But I found it predictable and juvenile at times.
I mean, don’t get me wrong. If you love a second chance romance, then you will devour this. But I found it predictable and juvenile at times.
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July 27, 2024
4 ⭐️ This was so much better than I thought it'd be!
It was a freebie on Stuff your Kindle day a while ago, and I don't know why it's taken me so long to read it.
Full RTC, but I'm definitely reading the rest of the series!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5- Spicier than I expected, but I loved it that much more because of it.
It was a freebie on Stuff your Kindle day a while ago, and I don't know why it's taken me so long to read it.
Full RTC, but I'm definitely reading the rest of the series!!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5- Spicier than I expected, but I loved it that much more because of it.
March 14, 2023
I got the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book and I was so excited about it because I am a young widow who has found my “second chance” if you will. I related to both Devon and Aaron on many instances. I loved how the characters developed and how the story line just flowed. It had some very spicy scenes in it which I absolutely loved as well!
The authors writing was so easy to follow and I really fell in love with the characters. I cannot wait to read more from her. This is a book I will read again and again.
The authors writing was so easy to follow and I really fell in love with the characters. I cannot wait to read more from her. This is a book I will read again and again.
March 12, 2024
This was just okay … and I’m annoyed because it could’ve been wonderful! Too many sexy scenes and not enough relationship, growth, etc.
May 19, 2023
Who doesn't love second chances, especially those that restore oomph to life and bring needed healing, in this case to Devon, whose firefighter husband was killed on duty, and paramedic Aaron, taken with her from first sight?
"I never bothered to tell Gigi I'd been gobsmacked by her granddaughter from the very first time I laid eyes on her. From the second she came by the firehouse, I was drawn to her. It sounded completely hokey and woo-woo, which wasn't really like me, but there was something about her energy, I don't know. All I could do was wish I'd met her first."
For a widow returning home to a small town she doesn't want to see again, lingering grief, and an immediate injury, there are hurdles galore to amour -- including a wired jaw for Devon after she trips and falls. I was taken with how she and Aaron surmount these road blocks, and get past their fears to drawing near. And when they do, BAM!
They have so much NEED, and if you're not into steam, this one's not for you, but if you are, you won't be able to put this sizzling tale down.
Recommended for contemporary romance fans who long for happy sexy stories that give respite from real life.
Thanks to author Valerie Pepper and Stafford Lane Publishing for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#thewidowsguidetosecondchances #valeriepepper #staffordlanepublishing #contemporarywomensfiction #romanticnovels #gettingovergrieffiction #bookstagramcommunity
"I never bothered to tell Gigi I'd been gobsmacked by her granddaughter from the very first time I laid eyes on her. From the second she came by the firehouse, I was drawn to her. It sounded completely hokey and woo-woo, which wasn't really like me, but there was something about her energy, I don't know. All I could do was wish I'd met her first."
For a widow returning home to a small town she doesn't want to see again, lingering grief, and an immediate injury, there are hurdles galore to amour -- including a wired jaw for Devon after she trips and falls. I was taken with how she and Aaron surmount these road blocks, and get past their fears to drawing near. And when they do, BAM!
They have so much NEED, and if you're not into steam, this one's not for you, but if you are, you won't be able to put this sizzling tale down.
Recommended for contemporary romance fans who long for happy sexy stories that give respite from real life.
Thanks to author Valerie Pepper and Stafford Lane Publishing for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#thewidowsguidetosecondchances #valeriepepper #staffordlanepublishing #contemporarywomensfiction #romanticnovels #gettingovergrieffiction #bookstagramcommunity
March 17, 2023
I was drawn to the book by the cover and the plot - Devon, whose husband died five years earlier, ran away and lives a nomad life since he died. She is summoned home as her grandmother Gigi left Devon her house in her will on the stipulation that she stays in the house and fixes it up for 6 months. Devon has a lot of trauma to work through, from losing her parents in her childhood to losing her husband so tragically. Will she find her way forward, live the life she deserves and finally open her heart to love again? A solid read and cute romcom - with a meet cute, a swoon worthy love interest Aaron, quirky town characters and spicy (super spicy!) scenes. A lot of them. So be warned. Not sure if all scenes were necessary as the story alone kept your interest. But a good start to the new series, Guided to Love. I look forward to the next book, which focuses on coffee owner Jodi and Aaron’s brother Price.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 23, 2023
I just can't get behind spicy scenes where the woman literally has a broken jaw and is living off yoghurt.
The woman is probably malnourished at this point. She probably wants to just curl up with some trashy TV. The last thing she wants to do is horizontal folk dance with a thirty year, emotionally immature man.
The woman is probably malnourished at this point. She probably wants to just curl up with some trashy TV. The last thing she wants to do is horizontal folk dance with a thirty year, emotionally immature man.
January 6, 2024
4/5⭐️
Okay! So I enjoyed this book a lot, but there were some parts that made me icy and frustrated.
The book has a slow start, and I found Devon way too self-absorbed. I understand she was dealing with a lot; all the important people in her life were not there anymore, and she has all the right to deal with it in her own way. I just wish she was there for both of her families rather than leaving the town and starting fresh (nothing is wrong with that), but I wish she was emotionally more involved.
Her character development happened at the very end of the book, but it was worth it for me.
This book is getting four stars just because of Aaron and the side characters; I adored them.
Aaron was everything that Devon needed.
One thing that frustrated me was Aaron’s family dynamic and how the brothers handled the whole situation; it was very immature.
I can’t wait to start Jodi’s book. I absolutely loved her in this book.
Okay! So I enjoyed this book a lot, but there were some parts that made me icy and frustrated.
The book has a slow start, and I found Devon way too self-absorbed. I understand she was dealing with a lot; all the important people in her life were not there anymore, and she has all the right to deal with it in her own way. I just wish she was there for both of her families rather than leaving the town and starting fresh (nothing is wrong with that), but I wish she was emotionally more involved.
Her character development happened at the very end of the book, but it was worth it for me.
This book is getting four stars just because of Aaron and the side characters; I adored them.
Aaron was everything that Devon needed.
One thing that frustrated me was Aaron’s family dynamic and how the brothers handled the whole situation; it was very immature.
I can’t wait to start Jodi’s book. I absolutely loved her in this book.
September 22, 2023
This book was so cute and refreshing!! I loved the story and the SPICE was 🔥
March 11, 2025
This book was okay, definitely needed more refinement and development. A lot of things could've been removed and more substance could've been added in. I wanted to like it. I thought I would. I thought it would pull the heart strings since her husband died tragically but there was just somethings I couldn't get past.
Spoilers ahead!
This doesn't matter as much (read: at all) but I hated her name lol sorry to all those named Devon. Again, this doesn't really matter but every time I saw her name, I was like ew. Can't really explain it lol I'm weird
What was the point of the storyline with her jaw needing to be wired shut? I mean one thing to fall on the floor to be like an awkward meet/cute thing going on. But why make her jaw being wired shut the entire freaking book, like it's her personality. What was the reason? What was the purpose? For the most part, you can pretty much forget that her jaw was wired shut but you definitely can't forget when a smut scene comes up lol it's always brought up that they can't make out or she can't give oral lol like what the heck lol why!!! Wait! Was her wired jaw supposed to make like some kind of tension? Cause if it was, it failed lol it was just weird honestly. If my mouth was wired shut and I can only drink liquids, I would not be thinking about getting it on. AND! When I finally have my mouth free, I definitely wouldn't be saying things like I've been working to open my jaw and you can fit it in there. The way I screamed and threw up in my mouth at the same time. I was a different person before I read that line lol
Another issue was the copious sex scenes. If you take out most of them and actually had scenes where they talked then you'd believe that they fell in love in 2 months. Seriously. I get it. He's hot. She's hot. But how can you say you love her when she doesn't even talk to you about anything serious?! You don't know her. You just like sleeping with her. Meanwhile for her, yeah Aaron's a catch. All around good guy. He legit pursued her. Felt bad for him lol
His brothers are crap, too. They annoyed me so much with them trying to force their mom on Aaron. And when you find out they knew why she left and never told Aaron. I was so pissed. How are you going to be angry with Aaron not wanting to give your mom a chance when he doesn't have all the facts? And hes a full grown adult in his 30s. He could handle finding out his mom is clinically depressed and needing to go to rehab. Stupid storyline that could've been resolved sooner 😒
Oh! I know she apologized for it and it was her fear talking but to tell Aaron that he can't go saving his brother caught in a fire and being mad for doing so kind of annoyed me. I get it, it was a whole fear response and she wasn't be rational. But she had no rational thought the entire book and I was over it.
Not the worst I've read. I did enjoy how it started but it kind of went downhill and the "romance" escalated too quickly to be believable.
Spoilers ahead!
This doesn't matter as much (read: at all) but I hated her name lol sorry to all those named Devon. Again, this doesn't really matter but every time I saw her name, I was like ew. Can't really explain it lol I'm weird
What was the point of the storyline with her jaw needing to be wired shut? I mean one thing to fall on the floor to be like an awkward meet/cute thing going on. But why make her jaw being wired shut the entire freaking book, like it's her personality. What was the reason? What was the purpose? For the most part, you can pretty much forget that her jaw was wired shut but you definitely can't forget when a smut scene comes up lol it's always brought up that they can't make out or she can't give oral lol like what the heck lol why!!! Wait! Was her wired jaw supposed to make like some kind of tension? Cause if it was, it failed lol it was just weird honestly. If my mouth was wired shut and I can only drink liquids, I would not be thinking about getting it on. AND! When I finally have my mouth free, I definitely wouldn't be saying things like I've been working to open my jaw and you can fit it in there. The way I screamed and threw up in my mouth at the same time. I was a different person before I read that line lol
Another issue was the copious sex scenes. If you take out most of them and actually had scenes where they talked then you'd believe that they fell in love in 2 months. Seriously. I get it. He's hot. She's hot. But how can you say you love her when she doesn't even talk to you about anything serious?! You don't know her. You just like sleeping with her. Meanwhile for her, yeah Aaron's a catch. All around good guy. He legit pursued her. Felt bad for him lol
His brothers are crap, too. They annoyed me so much with them trying to force their mom on Aaron. And when you find out they knew why she left and never told Aaron. I was so pissed. How are you going to be angry with Aaron not wanting to give your mom a chance when he doesn't have all the facts? And hes a full grown adult in his 30s. He could handle finding out his mom is clinically depressed and needing to go to rehab. Stupid storyline that could've been resolved sooner 😒
Oh! I know she apologized for it and it was her fear talking but to tell Aaron that he can't go saving his brother caught in a fire and being mad for doing so kind of annoyed me. I get it, it was a whole fear response and she wasn't be rational. But she had no rational thought the entire book and I was over it.
Not the worst I've read. I did enjoy how it started but it kind of went downhill and the "romance" escalated too quickly to be believable.
April 6, 2023
Hey folks! It’s -checks notes- Thursday and I’m here with another advance review! This time for a new to me author, Valerie Pepper and her romance: The Widow’s Guide to Second Chances. I had a really good time reading this one and (like usual) have a lot to say about it all! You ready?
I’d like to thank Valerie for the advance review copy, thoughts below are my own, enjoy!
If the title of the book didn’t clearly communicate it, this is a romance that focuses on life and love after losing a spouse. So if that is gonna be hard for folks, I would recommend you be gentle with yourself while reading. For me though, from the first moment we meet Devon I was firmly in love with her. She’s hilarious in that classic way of this humour comes from my trauma and not in a I took an improv workshop after work. So, all that to say: same friend.
I’d like to thank Valerie for the advance review copy, thoughts below are my own, enjoy!
If the title of the book didn’t clearly communicate it, this is a romance that focuses on life and love after losing a spouse. So if that is gonna be hard for folks, I would recommend you be gentle with yourself while reading. For me though, from the first moment we meet Devon I was firmly in love with her. She’s hilarious in that classic way of this humour comes from my trauma and not in a I took an improv workshop after work. So, all that to say: same friend.
March 13, 2023
I recieved ARC of this book and here's my honest review. 😊
Potential spoiler alert❗
.
.
.
.
The Widow’s Guide to Second Chances is the first book in the Guided to Love small town romantic comedy series.
.
Now to the plot:
Devon is a widow, her firefighter husband dies on duty. She has been trying to run away from facing her feelings for five years. But after the death of her grandmother Gigi, from whom she inherited the house, she returns to the small town where she grew up. There we meet Aaron who is a paramedic and ultra hot 🥵.Devon tries to resist the charm and the feelings she gets for Aaron, but in the end she can't.
.
.
I really liked the townspeople and their interference in the relationship between Devon and Aaron. Spicey scenes are very well written, I especially liked the one behind the waterfall as well as the one in the shower 😉🔥 Also, an important aspect of the book is how the main character learns to deal with the death of a loved one and realizes that she deserves happiness and love.
.
All in all I really liked the book because of the great plot and writing style that flows very well . I'm looking forward to the continuation of the series and I can't wait to find out what will happen between Jodi and Price. 😊
Potential spoiler alert❗
.
.
.
.
The Widow’s Guide to Second Chances is the first book in the Guided to Love small town romantic comedy series.
.
Now to the plot:
Devon is a widow, her firefighter husband dies on duty. She has been trying to run away from facing her feelings for five years. But after the death of her grandmother Gigi, from whom she inherited the house, she returns to the small town where she grew up. There we meet Aaron who is a paramedic and ultra hot 🥵.Devon tries to resist the charm and the feelings she gets for Aaron, but in the end she can't.
.
.
I really liked the townspeople and their interference in the relationship between Devon and Aaron. Spicey scenes are very well written, I especially liked the one behind the waterfall as well as the one in the shower 😉🔥 Also, an important aspect of the book is how the main character learns to deal with the death of a loved one and realizes that she deserves happiness and love.
.
All in all I really liked the book because of the great plot and writing style that flows very well . I'm looking forward to the continuation of the series and I can't wait to find out what will happen between Jodi and Price. 😊
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2023
Let me preface this by saying I sat on this book for FAR too long. I was in a big time slump, and I didn’t want that to spoil this book. I finally gave it my full commitment yesterday and finished it today.
VALERIE!! You got me.. I’m not a crier by any means.. but you got my eyes to water. So… Thank you? 😉
Devon, a young widow who has to come back to her small hometown, orders by her Gigi. She doesn’t have the smoothest transition, with a whole lot of shenanigans taking place. She gets reacquainted with Aaron a single, attractive EMT. Being a romance novel.. things heat up between them. But can Devon withstand the pressure of moving on with her life, after such a loss?
This book had so many things:
Small Town
Dogs
Coffee shop hangout spot
Nosy community
Spicy waterfall scene
Swoony romance scenes
The character development was spot on, and getting to read Devon’s growth and acceptance of what she’s been struggling with all along was beautiful, and emotional.
Do I recommend this book? ABSOLUTELY I DO!
Will I be reading book 2 as soon as it comes out? You can bet your sweet tookus I will!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. 🌶️🌶️.5
VALERIE!! You got me.. I’m not a crier by any means.. but you got my eyes to water. So… Thank you? 😉
Devon, a young widow who has to come back to her small hometown, orders by her Gigi. She doesn’t have the smoothest transition, with a whole lot of shenanigans taking place. She gets reacquainted with Aaron a single, attractive EMT. Being a romance novel.. things heat up between them. But can Devon withstand the pressure of moving on with her life, after such a loss?
This book had so many things:
Small Town
Dogs
Coffee shop hangout spot
Nosy community
Spicy waterfall scene
Swoony romance scenes
The character development was spot on, and getting to read Devon’s growth and acceptance of what she’s been struggling with all along was beautiful, and emotional.
Do I recommend this book? ABSOLUTELY I DO!
Will I be reading book 2 as soon as it comes out? You can bet your sweet tookus I will!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. 🌶️🌶️.5
April 24, 2023
I think I need a paramedic! A hot sexy one named Aaron. I really don't care that Devon is the heroine of this story - I'll step in in a heartbeat!
When guilt and pain hit you after the devastating news that your husband has been killed, what do you do? If you're Devon you hightail it out of there and try to run from all the pain. But when Gigi dies she's forced to return to the place she's been running from for 5 years.
A couple of nosey community members, a scraggly dog, a hot paramedic, and Gigi's will are all working against Devon's goal of getting out of dodge as soon as the will's terms have been fulfilled.
If you like a mixture of sweet, spicy, and downright HOT this is the book for you.
I want to thank Ms. Pepper for her character portrayal of the mindset of a widow. It wasn't glossed over, made to seem trivial, and wasn't meant to be annoying and full of angst. Her accuracy lent such credibility to this book.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review - and here ya have it! <3
When guilt and pain hit you after the devastating news that your husband has been killed, what do you do? If you're Devon you hightail it out of there and try to run from all the pain. But when Gigi dies she's forced to return to the place she's been running from for 5 years.
A couple of nosey community members, a scraggly dog, a hot paramedic, and Gigi's will are all working against Devon's goal of getting out of dodge as soon as the will's terms have been fulfilled.
If you like a mixture of sweet, spicy, and downright HOT this is the book for you.
I want to thank Ms. Pepper for her character portrayal of the mindset of a widow. It wasn't glossed over, made to seem trivial, and wasn't meant to be annoying and full of angst. Her accuracy lent such credibility to this book.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review - and here ya have it! <3
April 11, 2023
I was given an ARC copy of this book to review.
This book follows Devon, a widow, running away from her past. Her husband died while doing his job as a firefighter, and she quickly fled and went on endless road trips. When her Gigi leaves a specific rule in her will for Devon, her brother comes to whisk her away and take her back home.
Once she’s home her past is haunting her, she’s counting down the days until she can leave. Until she runs into Aaron.
This book was so funny, that parts were making me laugh out loud and snort. It was emotional. It made me cry. The love story between Aaron and Devon was so beautiful, and the book was wonderfully written.
I absolutely loved this book, and honestly think it was my favorite book of March. I cannot wait for the next in the series!
This book follows Devon, a widow, running away from her past. Her husband died while doing his job as a firefighter, and she quickly fled and went on endless road trips. When her Gigi leaves a specific rule in her will for Devon, her brother comes to whisk her away and take her back home.
Once she’s home her past is haunting her, she’s counting down the days until she can leave. Until she runs into Aaron.
This book was so funny, that parts were making me laugh out loud and snort. It was emotional. It made me cry. The love story between Aaron and Devon was so beautiful, and the book was wonderfully written.
I absolutely loved this book, and honestly think it was my favorite book of March. I cannot wait for the next in the series!
April 2, 2023
Loved this Small Town Romance.
Thankyou to Valerie Pepper for sending me the ARC copy to Read and Review. It had me hooked from the first page.
Devon Rayne has spent 5 years running from the memories of her husband who passed away in a fire fighting incident. Living life, moving around different places and never settling. When Her Grandmother Gigi passes away leaving the house She grew up in to Devon. The only catch is that she must live in it for 6 months.
Aaron Joseph is the local Paramedic. Working along side his two brothers at the fire station. Aaron has always wanted Devon but also knew her husband when he was alive. But he never lost hope over the 5 years that one day he might get his chance with Devon.
If you love Small Town romances, lots of spice 🌶 🌶🌶 and two adorable dogs. You will absolutely love this book. I am looking forward to reading the Next Book about Jodi.
Thankyou to Valerie Pepper for sending me the ARC copy to Read and Review. It had me hooked from the first page.
Devon Rayne has spent 5 years running from the memories of her husband who passed away in a fire fighting incident. Living life, moving around different places and never settling. When Her Grandmother Gigi passes away leaving the house She grew up in to Devon. The only catch is that she must live in it for 6 months.
Aaron Joseph is the local Paramedic. Working along side his two brothers at the fire station. Aaron has always wanted Devon but also knew her husband when he was alive. But he never lost hope over the 5 years that one day he might get his chance with Devon.
If you love Small Town romances, lots of spice 🌶 🌶🌶 and two adorable dogs. You will absolutely love this book. I am looking forward to reading the Next Book about Jodi.
April 3, 2023
I was so excited to read an advanced copy of this book for my job and oh my goodness this was everything I didn’t know I wanted. I couldn’t put this book down. Aaron is the quintessential EMT sweetheart with a long-standing crush on our emotionally stunted FMC Devon. We get to see Aaron break down her walls while working through his own issues and I LOVE that even the HEA was so realistic. They talk through their issues and don’t pretend to be a perfect fairytale couple. And the spice was surprisingly hot for the type of book I was expecting. This love story is one for the ages and the twist on the classic “big gesture” was so unique and fun. I’ll be buying a physical copy as soon as I can (signed if I can swing it lol). Run, don’t walk, to read this book.
August 30, 2023
[4.5 Stars😍] I am SO glad that I came across Valerie Pepper and her book The Widow's Guide to Second Chances because I have a new auto-buy author! I recently lamented the lack of Alabama-based male main characters in romance novels because, let's face it--we have a stereotype down here where some people automatically think, "EW, rednecks and mullets!" when they think of people from Alabama. While I can't deny that we have people down here, I was so happy to see my home state and its natural beauty featured in a romance novel.
There is something to love for everyone in this book! The Widow's Guide to Second Chances balances laugh-out-loud funny and light-hearted with emotionally charged moments, and she created a near-perfect book, in my opinion. Valerie Pepper's writing is so natural, and it flows well. She reminds me of things I love about Tessa Bailey, especially her character's emotional depth and her romantic development. Valerie Pepper also NAILED IT with the supporting characters (the meddlers, the fire chief/"town matchmaker," Jodi and Ceci...and even the antagonistic Ms. Withers), and I can't imagine this book without a single one of them.
The relationship progression between Devon and Aaron in The Widow's Guide to Second Chances was fantastic, and I could not get enough of them! Aaron was a great book boyfriend, and his careful and well-intentioned (focus on her heart, asshole!😅) pursuit of Devon in this book was heart-melt-y and swoony. His emotional maturity, caring and sweet yet direct and commanding ("You'll wait." 🥵) nature made for a great combination! But I also loved how Devon and Aaron existed outside of each other as much as I loved the romance. However, I wish the resolution between Aaron and his mother got more attention, but I think (hope) that it will develop as the series continues.
Valerie Pepper wrote an absolute GEM of a rom-com, and I have already pre-ordered The Barista's Guide to the Perfect Steam because I can already tell I will love it. I can't wait to recommend this book to my friends and anyone who will listen!!
____________________________________
Details:
💘Contemporary romance
😇Book boyfriend
👀Dual POV
🙌Would re-read
🌟Favorite
Tropes:
🚨First responder
💙He falls first
🤕Illness/injury
🪃Return to hometown
🧨Slow burn
🏡Small town
Spice:
🔥Explicit sex (hot)
____________________________________
Emoji Ranking System:
🤩Fantastic (4.75-5.00)
😍Great (4.25-4.75)
😊Good, but not great (3.50-4.25)
😒Just OK (2.75-3.50)
😑It's A No (1.00-2.75)
🚫DNF
There is something to love for everyone in this book! The Widow's Guide to Second Chances balances laugh-out-loud funny and light-hearted with emotionally charged moments, and she created a near-perfect book, in my opinion. Valerie Pepper's writing is so natural, and it flows well. She reminds me of things I love about Tessa Bailey, especially her character's emotional depth and her romantic development. Valerie Pepper also NAILED IT with the supporting characters (the meddlers, the fire chief/"town matchmaker," Jodi and Ceci...and even the antagonistic Ms. Withers), and I can't imagine this book without a single one of them.
The relationship progression between Devon and Aaron in The Widow's Guide to Second Chances was fantastic, and I could not get enough of them! Aaron was a great book boyfriend, and his careful and well-intentioned (focus on her heart, asshole!😅) pursuit of Devon in this book was heart-melt-y and swoony. His emotional maturity, caring and sweet yet direct and commanding ("You'll wait." 🥵) nature made for a great combination! But I also loved how Devon and Aaron existed outside of each other as much as I loved the romance. However, I wish the resolution between Aaron and his mother got more attention, but I think (hope) that it will develop as the series continues.
Valerie Pepper wrote an absolute GEM of a rom-com, and I have already pre-ordered The Barista's Guide to the Perfect Steam because I can already tell I will love it. I can't wait to recommend this book to my friends and anyone who will listen!!
____________________________________
Details:
💘Contemporary romance
😇Book boyfriend
👀Dual POV
🙌Would re-read
🌟Favorite
Tropes:
🚨First responder
💙He falls first
🤕Illness/injury
🪃Return to hometown
🧨Slow burn
🏡Small town
Spice:
🔥Explicit sex (hot)
____________________________________
Emoji Ranking System:
🤩Fantastic (4.75-5.00)
😍Great (4.25-4.75)
😊Good, but not great (3.50-4.25)
😒Just OK (2.75-3.50)
😑It's A No (1.00-2.75)
🚫DNF
August 16, 2023
4 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
**""We have been given the gift of these messy lives, and we have to live them. What you've been doing these past five years? It's not been living." I heaved out a breath. "It's been longer than that, Rick. So much longer.""
Absolutely loved this small town, second chance romance.
This book had me right from the beginning with the use of the puppers 🐶. I knew it was going to be a hit for me!
The writing was phenomenal, and I was able to picture everything really well. I devoured this book within a couple of days.
I came across it because I was given the ARC for the second of this series, so I had to give this one a chance first, and I am so happy that I did!
The FMC is a strong female lead with a lot of growth throughout the book, and the MMC is a sexy, golden retriever type, paramedic (but that's only in public 😏). An explosive combo.
So my one and only gripe was with how she decided to stay, I was super confused? It felt like the miscommunication happened .. and then BAM she was staying and trying to make things work? My reason for a 4 star, instead of a 5!
Don't let that turn you away from this book, though. It was a super cute short read that needs to be bought ASAP! 📚
""I'll be the one issuing commands, Devon." His voice was low as he nipped at the sensitive skin beneath my ear. "And I'll be the one to undress you the rest of the way.""
**""We have been given the gift of these messy lives, and we have to live them. What you've been doing these past five years? It's not been living." I heaved out a breath. "It's been longer than that, Rick. So much longer.""
Absolutely loved this small town, second chance romance.
This book had me right from the beginning with the use of the puppers 🐶. I knew it was going to be a hit for me!
The writing was phenomenal, and I was able to picture everything really well. I devoured this book within a couple of days.
I came across it because I was given the ARC for the second of this series, so I had to give this one a chance first, and I am so happy that I did!
The FMC is a strong female lead with a lot of growth throughout the book, and the MMC is a sexy, golden retriever type, paramedic (but that's only in public 😏). An explosive combo.
So my one and only gripe was with how she decided to stay, I was super confused? It felt like the miscommunication happened .. and then BAM she was staying and trying to make things work? My reason for a 4 star, instead of a 5!
Don't let that turn you away from this book, though. It was a super cute short read that needs to be bought ASAP! 📚
""I'll be the one issuing commands, Devon." His voice was low as he nipped at the sensitive skin beneath my ear. "And I'll be the one to undress you the rest of the way.""
March 21, 2025
A little slow to start and a lot more spice than I had expected, but I really enjoyed the story and the characters, even though Devon was a tad dramatic and self absorbed. Aaron made up for these shortcomings, being the smitten hunk that he was, even though his side of the story seemed a bit unresolved. The ending had a bunch going on that didn't seem to mesh with the flow of the story... Mrs. Withers, for example. Her complete 180 was just too out of character. I'm guessing the next book will explain more of Will and Price's investment decision since that was an odd device used to wrap up this story.
I'm off to read the next book!
I'm off to read the next book!
August 23, 2023
3.5 stars! This book was a cute & easy read with some good spicy scenes! It’s a small town romance mixed with a little bit of healing/grief mixed in. It’s the first book in a stand-alone interconnected series.
I will say, I have read the second book & LOVED that one, so if you enjoyed this, be sure to keep on with the series!!
I will say, I have read the second book & LOVED that one, so if you enjoyed this, be sure to keep on with the series!!
September 15, 2023
Talk about a good stuff your kindle day find! This has everything you want in a small town romance: emotionally messy leads, scheming side characters, a cheesy love story, and delicious, copious amounts of smut. It checks all the boxes, enough to make me immediately buy book 2 😌
March 18, 2023
After losing her husband, Devon left town in a hurry. She ran from her losses, and her fears and feelings of guilt and kept on running for 5 years.
She made a living by leading hikes and tours across the US, and only returned home to fulfill the requirements of her Grandmother’s will, which stipulated that she had to live in the house left to her for 6 months.
Aaron had fallen for Devon the first time he laid eyes on her, but hadn’t acted on his feelings as she was married.
He had his own issues to contend with, having loved and lost several times, and knew that when Devon returned to town, she wouldn’t stay beyond the stipulated 6 months.
This is a lovely, steamy small town romance, with strong characters and a brilliant plot. There’s even a stray dog involved, who accidentally, but fortuitously, trips Devon up, requiring the attendance of a Paramedic, who just happens to be Aaron.
I found this story hard to put down, and loved reading about the friendships, and some decades old rivalries that belong in a small town.
Definitely a 5 star read, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
She made a living by leading hikes and tours across the US, and only returned home to fulfill the requirements of her Grandmother’s will, which stipulated that she had to live in the house left to her for 6 months.
Aaron had fallen for Devon the first time he laid eyes on her, but hadn’t acted on his feelings as she was married.
He had his own issues to contend with, having loved and lost several times, and knew that when Devon returned to town, she wouldn’t stay beyond the stipulated 6 months.
This is a lovely, steamy small town romance, with strong characters and a brilliant plot. There’s even a stray dog involved, who accidentally, but fortuitously, trips Devon up, requiring the attendance of a Paramedic, who just happens to be Aaron.
I found this story hard to put down, and loved reading about the friendships, and some decades old rivalries that belong in a small town.
Definitely a 5 star read, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
March 23, 2023
This was my first book by Valerie Pepper and it won't be my last! The writing was approachable and easy to read, and I sped through this in about a day. The characters were flawed but relatable, and I enjoyed their wit, quirks, and layered backstories. Even tertiary characters had their own story, and I liked how it all tied into the larger plot. I was a little confused about the significance of Devon's broken jaw, but I loved how it came together in the end to represent her transformation from being trapped by the pain of her past to allowing herself to be free and happy. Though the story was a bit predictable, and I felt some of the bigger problems weren't fully addressed or were resolved too easily, I think that is, to some extent, to be expected in this genre. Overall a very well-written book and I will certainly pick up the next installment in this series!
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I received a free advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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I received a free advance review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
March 22, 2023
Valerie Pepper is a new author to me. I have to say her writing is solid. Her characters are well developed and engaging. I hope to read more books from her.
My thoughts:
Devon comes back to her hometown she left 5 years earlier. The death of her firefighter husband was too much for her handle staying in the town they lived in. When she arrives in town, she bumps into Aaron. He is a paramedic at the fire station. Aaron had feelings for Devon from before. But, Devon has no aspirations to start a romance.
Small town romance with lots of steamy moments.
Humorous moments that will make you smile and laugh out loud.
A scraggly homeless dog that adopts Devon.
Overall, a small town rom com that I enjoyed reading.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to Booksirens and author, Valerie Pepper, for a advanced review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
@shortbookthyme
My thoughts:
Devon comes back to her hometown she left 5 years earlier. The death of her firefighter husband was too much for her handle staying in the town they lived in. When she arrives in town, she bumps into Aaron. He is a paramedic at the fire station. Aaron had feelings for Devon from before. But, Devon has no aspirations to start a romance.
Small town romance with lots of steamy moments.
Humorous moments that will make you smile and laugh out loud.
A scraggly homeless dog that adopts Devon.
Overall, a small town rom com that I enjoyed reading.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you to Booksirens and author, Valerie Pepper, for a advanced review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
@shortbookthyme
March 28, 2023
Book review for A Widows Guide to Second Chances by Valerie Pepper
I recently read this book by Valerie Pepper as part of a ARC project. My first time ever doing this and also the first time I have ever read a book by this particular author, but I can honestly say, this won’t be the last time. I cannot wait to get into her other books now!
An amazing example of how, even after losing family members and especially younger members of the family at younger ages, we can still move in and make ourselves a new, “second chance” at life.
Also, and I wasn’t expecting this in the book, I loved the added smut in there too. Very well written and not at all creepy in any way, as I can’t find it to be written in some other books.
I would rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Thank you for a fantastic read! Look forward to more to come from you!
I recently read this book by Valerie Pepper as part of a ARC project. My first time ever doing this and also the first time I have ever read a book by this particular author, but I can honestly say, this won’t be the last time. I cannot wait to get into her other books now!
An amazing example of how, even after losing family members and especially younger members of the family at younger ages, we can still move in and make ourselves a new, “second chance” at life.
Also, and I wasn’t expecting this in the book, I loved the added smut in there too. Very well written and not at all creepy in any way, as I can’t find it to be written in some other books.
I would rate this book 5 out of 5 stars!
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Thank you for a fantastic read! Look forward to more to come from you!
June 12, 2023
I just don’t understand why Devon had to have her jaw wired shut the whole book. I was just picturing Eunice from She’s the Man the whole time. I fixated on that but when the spicy talk would always mention it, it was hard to not fixate on it. This could have been 4 stars for me if she just broke her wrist instead.
Also wtf kind of brothers keep their mother’s depression from their other sibling for so long?? They were all in their 30s/40s. It’s not like Aaron was a child who couldn’t handle that information. The explanation fell flat for me too and felt rushed to just tie up some very deep rooted emotions regarding Aaron & his mother’s relationship.
Lastly I felt zero connection between Devon & Aaron.
Also wtf kind of brothers keep their mother’s depression from their other sibling for so long?? They were all in their 30s/40s. It’s not like Aaron was a child who couldn’t handle that information. The explanation fell flat for me too and felt rushed to just tie up some very deep rooted emotions regarding Aaron & his mother’s relationship.
Lastly I felt zero connection between Devon & Aaron.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2023
Devon and Aaron really make a sweet couple. Aaron is very understanding of Devon when she returns home to grieve not only the recent loss of her grandmother but also her late husband and her late parents. She truly was journeying through quite a bit of loss and finally understanding her trauma. Through all of this, Aaron was patient and kind. Absolutely loved how the dogs were main characters throughout as well. Everyone needs a wingman like Samson 🐾
The one think that irked me a bit was the fact that Devon broke her jaw so her jaw was wired shut until the end. I’m not sure why this made the angst and sexual tension a bit forced for me instead of it occurring naturally. Other than that I did enjoy this cute rom-com story.
The one think that irked me a bit was the fact that Devon broke her jaw so her jaw was wired shut until the end. I’m not sure why this made the angst and sexual tension a bit forced for me instead of it occurring naturally. Other than that I did enjoy this cute rom-com story.
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