What do you think?
Forever Carly
Secrets, deceptions, and lies.
Michele Sims, the multi-award-winning author of the Moore Family Saga is back with a second chance romance novel.
Carly Rivers, a small town girl with big dreams to become a renowned expert on historical African American communities unexpectedly encounters her college sweetheart, Mason Moore, after ten years apart in Charleston, South Carolina.
Mason has transformed his family’s business into an international conglomerate.
Both are rising from the ashes of a failed marriage.
Can Carly survive in Mason’s world of secrets?
Can they rediscover the love they once shared, peeling back the layers one at a time?
Or will the untold truth cost them the second chance at love they both deserve?
GET YOUR COPY!
*** Also by Michele
Seed On A Romantic Suspense Novel about Family, Loyalty, and Parenthood (Moore Family Saga Book 1)
Playing with A Romantic Paranormal Suspense Novel (Moore Family Saga Book 2)
The Fire God A Romantic Paranormal Suspense Novel (Moore Family Saga Book 3)
A Moore Affair (Moore Family Saga Book 4)
Face the A Romantic Paranormal Suspense Novel (Moore Family Saga Book 5)
Love in the Lowcountry (A Winter Holiday Collection Book 1)
Volume One (Halloween Anthologies Book 1)
Knight of Penn Quarter (Knights of the Castle Book 9)
Michele Sims, the multi-award-winning author of the Moore Family Saga is back with a second chance romance novel.
Carly Rivers, a small town girl with big dreams to become a renowned expert on historical African American communities unexpectedly encounters her college sweetheart, Mason Moore, after ten years apart in Charleston, South Carolina.
Mason has transformed his family’s business into an international conglomerate.
Both are rising from the ashes of a failed marriage.
Can Carly survive in Mason’s world of secrets?
Can they rediscover the love they once shared, peeling back the layers one at a time?
Or will the untold truth cost them the second chance at love they both deserve?
GET YOUR COPY!
*** Also by Michele
Seed On A Romantic Suspense Novel about Family, Loyalty, and Parenthood (Moore Family Saga Book 1)
Playing with A Romantic Paranormal Suspense Novel (Moore Family Saga Book 2)
The Fire God A Romantic Paranormal Suspense Novel (Moore Family Saga Book 3)
A Moore Affair (Moore Family Saga Book 4)
Face the A Romantic Paranormal Suspense Novel (Moore Family Saga Book 5)
Love in the Lowcountry (A Winter Holiday Collection Book 1)
Volume One (Halloween Anthologies Book 1)
Knight of Penn Quarter (Knights of the Castle Book 9)
299 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
July 25, 2026
I’ll tell you exactly how Forever Carly hit me: like someone whispered, “You’re not going to believe what Mason Moore just did,” and suddenly I’m perched on the edge of the sofa, ready for gossip. Carly Rivers is out here trying to rebuild her life like a responsible adult, and then Mason strolls back into the picture with the emotional subtlety of a marching band. Ten years apart and he still manages to look like trouble wrapped in a tailored suit.
The first time they see each other again, I swear I could hear Carly’s internal monologue screaming, “Oh no, not this man, not today, not while I’m wearing sensible shoes.” Meanwhile Mason’s over there pretending he’s calm, cool, and collected, but you can practically see the panic behind his eyes. He’s got secrets stacked higher than his corporate empire, and every single one of them is waiting to trip him like a badly placed Lego.
Their conversations crackle with that delicious “I’m fine, you’re fine, we’re absolutely not fine” energy. Carly tries to keep it professional, but Mason opens his mouth and suddenly she’s remembering every kiss, every fight, every stupid promise he made when they were young enough to believe love didn’t require emotional competence. And when Carly asks him a simple question and he hesitates? Oh, Jennifer, I felt that. That’s the kind of hesitation that makes a woman put her drink down and say, “Start talking, Mason, before I start guessing.”
The chemistry is undeniable, but the sass is what makes it sparkle. Carly doesn’t let him get away with anything. She calls him out, she pushes back, she refuses to be dazzled by his success, and Mason—poor, beautiful Mason—looks like a man who’s been hit by a truth he wasn’t prepared to hear. Their dynamic is messy, sharp, and addictive, like watching two people try to rebuild a bridge while standing on opposite cliffs yelling instructions at each other.
The emotional unraveling is slow and satisfying. Every conversation peels back another layer, another lie, another moment where you want to grab Mason by the shoulders and say, “Sweetheart, honesty is not a limited‑edition product. Use it.” And Carly? She’s the backbone of this story. She’s the one who makes you cheer, who makes you mutter “good girl” under your breath when she refuses to settle for half‑truths.
This is why it lands at 4 stars in our Jenni‑chaos universe: it’s juicy, it’s tangled, it’s full of sass‑laced conversations that feel like emotional fencing matches, and it gives you exactly the kind of second‑chance romance that makes you want to text your best friend and say, “You need to read this so we can talk about Mason’s nonsense together.”
The first time they see each other again, I swear I could hear Carly’s internal monologue screaming, “Oh no, not this man, not today, not while I’m wearing sensible shoes.” Meanwhile Mason’s over there pretending he’s calm, cool, and collected, but you can practically see the panic behind his eyes. He’s got secrets stacked higher than his corporate empire, and every single one of them is waiting to trip him like a badly placed Lego.
Their conversations crackle with that delicious “I’m fine, you’re fine, we’re absolutely not fine” energy. Carly tries to keep it professional, but Mason opens his mouth and suddenly she’s remembering every kiss, every fight, every stupid promise he made when they were young enough to believe love didn’t require emotional competence. And when Carly asks him a simple question and he hesitates? Oh, Jennifer, I felt that. That’s the kind of hesitation that makes a woman put her drink down and say, “Start talking, Mason, before I start guessing.”
The chemistry is undeniable, but the sass is what makes it sparkle. Carly doesn’t let him get away with anything. She calls him out, she pushes back, she refuses to be dazzled by his success, and Mason—poor, beautiful Mason—looks like a man who’s been hit by a truth he wasn’t prepared to hear. Their dynamic is messy, sharp, and addictive, like watching two people try to rebuild a bridge while standing on opposite cliffs yelling instructions at each other.
The emotional unraveling is slow and satisfying. Every conversation peels back another layer, another lie, another moment where you want to grab Mason by the shoulders and say, “Sweetheart, honesty is not a limited‑edition product. Use it.” And Carly? She’s the backbone of this story. She’s the one who makes you cheer, who makes you mutter “good girl” under your breath when she refuses to settle for half‑truths.
This is why it lands at 4 stars in our Jenni‑chaos universe: it’s juicy, it’s tangled, it’s full of sass‑laced conversations that feel like emotional fencing matches, and it gives you exactly the kind of second‑chance romance that makes you want to text your best friend and say, “You need to read this so we can talk about Mason’s nonsense together.”
January 4, 2026
The story was cute.
August 22, 2026
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Forever Carly was a great second chance romance with plenty of secrets, deception, past hurts, family drama, friendships but also the re-connection of two people whom truly belong together. I love how the author delivers this story of Carly and Mason and weaves the tale of how true love never went away, just circumstances made them take a detour to finally be together years later even through love and loss.
This is a wonderful story with a stunning cover and I truly fell in love with the characters. I am looking forward to reading more.
Forever Carly was a great second chance romance with plenty of secrets, deception, past hurts, family drama, friendships but also the re-connection of two people whom truly belong together. I love how the author delivers this story of Carly and Mason and weaves the tale of how true love never went away, just circumstances made them take a detour to finally be together years later even through love and loss.
This is a wonderful story with a stunning cover and I truly fell in love with the characters. I am looking forward to reading more.
August 8, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. I typically like second chance romances and this one was good, just as I anticipated it would be. I liked all the layers and emotions for the characters and the history they shared. Forever Carly was a quick and easy read and I really liked it a lot. Some slow spots and pretty predictable, but I honestly prefer books like that as I can just read and enjoy and not stress about the storyline. I will definitely look to read more from this author.
June 25, 2023
Wow
Wow, this was such a enjoyable second chance romance. I absolutely loved the broth of both Mase and Carly. Made happens to be one of my favorite heros, not only because of his actions, but he is also a member of one of my favorite NPHC fraternities (IYKYK) (And no, she didn't use the name, but I was able to figure it out). This has turned into one of my favorite second chance romances. It was such a well written story, and I love how she tackled gentrification as well as other issues (child loss/miscarriage is one of the triggers)
I received a copy of this book via the author and am voluntary leaving an honest review of my own thoughts and opinions
Wow, this was such a enjoyable second chance romance. I absolutely loved the broth of both Mase and Carly. Made happens to be one of my favorite heros, not only because of his actions, but he is also a member of one of my favorite NPHC fraternities (IYKYK) (And no, she didn't use the name, but I was able to figure it out). This has turned into one of my favorite second chance romances. It was such a well written story, and I love how she tackled gentrification as well as other issues (child loss/miscarriage is one of the triggers)
I received a copy of this book via the author and am voluntary leaving an honest review of my own thoughts and opinions
August 11, 2023
A sweet romance with an edge of drama and a lot of family love and let's not forget the crazy ex's of both Mason and Carly. My favorites were Ariel and Yara.
May 19, 2023
Forever Carly is a beautifully written second chance love story. Mason and Carly's characters are well developed with human flaws and frailties that make it believable. Flaws that kept them apart but the yearning was the glue that sealed their hearts desire for one another.
The author used past hurts,old wounds, and family/community love to bring them to a meeting of the hearts.
I enjoyed the craftiness of the author to weave real situations like gentrification, friendships, miscarriage, divorce, heartache, and drama from exes to heighten the storyline and grab our attention throughout. This couple needed and yearned for a happily ever after.
Page turner worthy of five fabulous shiny stars.
The author used past hurts,old wounds, and family/community love to bring them to a meeting of the hearts.
I enjoyed the craftiness of the author to weave real situations like gentrification, friendships, miscarriage, divorce, heartache, and drama from exes to heighten the storyline and grab our attention throughout. This couple needed and yearned for a happily ever after.
Page turner worthy of five fabulous shiny stars.
August 18, 2026
There is something about a second-chance romance that gets me every time, especially when the characters aren't the same people they were when they first fell in love. *Forever Carly* gave me exactly that kind of story.
Carly and Mason have a history, and when they find their way back into each other's lives after ten years apart, it is clear that the feelings between them never completely disappeared. But getting a second chance doesn't mean the past magically disappears. Both of them have experienced heartbreak, failed marriages, and painful changes, and I loved watching them slowly navigate what it means to open their hearts again.
What really stood out to me was how much more there was to this story than romance. Michele Sims weaves family, friendship, community, old wounds, secrets, and difficult real-life issues into Carly and Mason's journey. I especially enjoyed the Charleston setting and the way the story connected Carly's love of history and her dreams to the larger issues surrounding her family's home and the surrounding community.
Carly felt wonderfully human to me. She wasn't perfect, and neither was Mason, which made their relationship feel much more believable. I found myself rooting for them even when I wasn't sure how they could get past everything standing between them.
There were moments when I wanted to tell them both to sit down and TALK already! 😂 But honestly, that's part of what kept me turning the pages. The secrets, misunderstandings, family drama, and exes added plenty of tension. At the same time, the underlying love between Carly and Mason kept me hoping they would finally find their way back to each other.
I also appreciated the theme of rebuilding. Sometimes getting another chance isn't about going backward and recreating what you once had. It's about becoming stronger, wiser people and discovering whether you can build something better together the second time around.
*Forever Carly* was a warm, emotional, sometimes dramatic read that left me believing in second chances and the possibility that some loves really are worth fighting for.
**My favourite part? ** **** Watching Carly and Mason realize that the years apart hadn't erased what was between them—it had simply changed them.
This was my first time getting to know Carly and Mason, but by the end, I felt invested in their story and definitely understood why readers wanted more of them. And apparently, I'm not the only one—Michele Sims later continued their story in *Until the Sun Rises*.
**A heartfelt second-chance romance about love, healing, family, and finding your way home to the person who still has your heart. ****
**Definitely worth the read! ** ❤️**
Carly and Mason have a history, and when they find their way back into each other's lives after ten years apart, it is clear that the feelings between them never completely disappeared. But getting a second chance doesn't mean the past magically disappears. Both of them have experienced heartbreak, failed marriages, and painful changes, and I loved watching them slowly navigate what it means to open their hearts again.
What really stood out to me was how much more there was to this story than romance. Michele Sims weaves family, friendship, community, old wounds, secrets, and difficult real-life issues into Carly and Mason's journey. I especially enjoyed the Charleston setting and the way the story connected Carly's love of history and her dreams to the larger issues surrounding her family's home and the surrounding community.
Carly felt wonderfully human to me. She wasn't perfect, and neither was Mason, which made their relationship feel much more believable. I found myself rooting for them even when I wasn't sure how they could get past everything standing between them.
There were moments when I wanted to tell them both to sit down and TALK already! 😂 But honestly, that's part of what kept me turning the pages. The secrets, misunderstandings, family drama, and exes added plenty of tension. At the same time, the underlying love between Carly and Mason kept me hoping they would finally find their way back to each other.
I also appreciated the theme of rebuilding. Sometimes getting another chance isn't about going backward and recreating what you once had. It's about becoming stronger, wiser people and discovering whether you can build something better together the second time around.
*Forever Carly* was a warm, emotional, sometimes dramatic read that left me believing in second chances and the possibility that some loves really are worth fighting for.
**My favourite part? ** **** Watching Carly and Mason realize that the years apart hadn't erased what was between them—it had simply changed them.
This was my first time getting to know Carly and Mason, but by the end, I felt invested in their story and definitely understood why readers wanted more of them. And apparently, I'm not the only one—Michele Sims later continued their story in *Until the Sun Rises*.
**A heartfelt second-chance romance about love, healing, family, and finding your way home to the person who still has your heart. ****
**Definitely worth the read! ** ❤️**
August 15, 2026
I opened this book and right away I was interested. First a scandal story, then the millionaire everyone should hate, you know the kind, they stick to themselves and only work and work and work? Yeah, THAT one. Then the story becomes heartfelt because Carly is spending time with her aunt, reminiscing about her mom and her past growing up. She ends up spending time with her aunt and just being pressured and pushed by her aunt to be kinder to her other family members which is always tough for us as we grow up with trauma. She returns to her old home that was unfortunately sold and is planning on retrieving some more of the items that were left and then she runs into this millionaire. Unfortunately or fortunately, depending on your perspective, they have known each other for years and years growing up and in a relationship together but life and misunderstandings ripped them apart. Fortunately in this unexpected meeting at the house, Carly learns that Mason, you know the millionaire, he is not responsible for their breakup and she was completely confused about what actually happened. Of course when you connect with and rekindle with an old flame things can start to change especially once you realize that you've always been in love with that person and what you thought about them was wrong. On a whim Mason decides to ask about her plans for the holidays and she has plenty of plans and she is not open to connecting with him and making plans for him. Carly ends up leaving on a cruise vacation with her friends and there is Mason right there and he steals her heart and now she will return after her cruise to be with him. Of course Carly is fighting the thoughts in her head and not wanting to be with him so this reflects while she's on the cruise but once she leaves that's when the story really begins. This is a realistic tale of how it is to go back and forth in a relationship and actually have your own life experience is going on in the background. I could really resonate with her and I fell in love with the characters but at the same time some of the characters really irritated me like her ex-husband and their family and the way that they infiltrated Carly's life. This was a fun read because it kept you wondering and thinking and hoping that they will be together in the end. I love this story and it gave me a lot of perspective on how it is to be in a real relationship and not just a fairy tale. This is my first book read by this author and I really loved how the author was able to connect with the reader and to show the romantic side but also the difficulty of balancing life and love.
August 20, 2026
3.5 Stars
Carly and Mason have a history, one that Carly was certain she had left behind. That is until she finds herself running back into him, and all the feelings from the past come rushing back. But they seem to have very different ideals, and they are both keeping secrets, secrets that could make or break their second chance.
This was an okay read. I really enjoyed the moments between Carly and her friends. Yara and Ariel were hilarious, and I kind of loved them. Honestly, if there had been more of them just hanging out together, I would have been chuffed. Like the interaction between her friends Ariel and Yara.
Sims also includes a lot of references to black history and heritage, and the importance of black communities in America. This was really interesting and made me want to look into it even more; I’ll probably surface from that deep dive in a few months time.
My only issues were that sometimes the dialogue felt a little bit stilted, and the romance between Mason and Carly moved a bit fast. I know that they had history, so there is that going for them, but I thought it would take a bit longer for them to discuss what happened in their past and, you know, hash it out. It felt like as I was learning about their issues, they were sort of getting solved. It did keep the pace of the book going, which was good, but it did make it difficult to connect with both Mason and Carly, and their relationship.
For the most part, though, I did enjoy this read, and would recommend this to anyone looking for a second-chance romance to sink their teeth into.
Carly and Mason have a history, one that Carly was certain she had left behind. That is until she finds herself running back into him, and all the feelings from the past come rushing back. But they seem to have very different ideals, and they are both keeping secrets, secrets that could make or break their second chance.
This was an okay read. I really enjoyed the moments between Carly and her friends. Yara and Ariel were hilarious, and I kind of loved them. Honestly, if there had been more of them just hanging out together, I would have been chuffed. Like the interaction between her friends Ariel and Yara.
Sims also includes a lot of references to black history and heritage, and the importance of black communities in America. This was really interesting and made me want to look into it even more; I’ll probably surface from that deep dive in a few months time.
My only issues were that sometimes the dialogue felt a little bit stilted, and the romance between Mason and Carly moved a bit fast. I know that they had history, so there is that going for them, but I thought it would take a bit longer for them to discuss what happened in their past and, you know, hash it out. It felt like as I was learning about their issues, they were sort of getting solved. It did keep the pace of the book going, which was good, but it did make it difficult to connect with both Mason and Carly, and their relationship.
For the most part, though, I did enjoy this read, and would recommend this to anyone looking for a second-chance romance to sink their teeth into.
August 22, 2026
Carly and Mason have a complicated history. They were once in love, but now their relationship is marked by heartbreak and resentment. After ten years apart, they finally meet again. Both are from Charleston, SC, and have built successful careers. Carly is a respected professor who studies historical African American communities, while Mason has expanded his family business internationally. Carly comes back to Charleston when she learns that Mason’s company has bought her childhood home and plans to tear it down.
At first, their reunion is tense and filled with anger, but things improve as they talk and clear up old misunderstandings. The feelings they once had for each other are still there, and I enjoyed watching them reconnect. Still, their journey back to each other will not be easy. Secrets and lies stand in their way, and they must learn to trust each other if they want their relationship to last.
I grew up in Charleston but now live in Georgia, and no matter how long I’ve been away, Charleston still feels like home. The author really captured that feeling with Carly and Mason. Reading about Charleston's streets and sights made me feel nostalgic. Besides being a great second-chance romance, Sims also explores changes in Charleston, like gentrification, rising housing costs, and people losing their homes. She weaves these issues into the story, making it a fantastic read. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
At first, their reunion is tense and filled with anger, but things improve as they talk and clear up old misunderstandings. The feelings they once had for each other are still there, and I enjoyed watching them reconnect. Still, their journey back to each other will not be easy. Secrets and lies stand in their way, and they must learn to trust each other if they want their relationship to last.
I grew up in Charleston but now live in Georgia, and no matter how long I’ve been away, Charleston still feels like home. The author really captured that feeling with Carly and Mason. Reading about Charleston's streets and sights made me feel nostalgic. Besides being a great second-chance romance, Sims also explores changes in Charleston, like gentrification, rising housing costs, and people losing their homes. She weaves these issues into the story, making it a fantastic read. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 24, 2026
5 out of 5 Stars
Forever Carly (Second-chance Series #1) by Michele Sims
This is the first book I've read by the author. Forever Carly is the first book in the Second-chance Series. Forever Carly is an amazing book and I will be following the series if I can. If you like second chance romances then this is definitely the book for you.
Caroline or Carly gets her second chance at a romance. Things aren't going like she wants when her job won't do what it should. She finds herself lost then in comes Mason. She falls for him all over again. The quote I chose for her is this: “I don’t believe it. How could Mason allow this? His group bought up most of the homes in that area. If what we just heard is true, the plans will mean that the neighborhood around my parents’ home will be destroyed.”
Mason comes back to his home town trying to help the community out. What he isn't expecting is to run into the one he loved at one point in time. Can he win her heart back? The quote I chose for him is this: “Sure, I have a corporate suite with a private restroom attached on the floor above this one. I heard about what happened in the hospitality suite. I’m sorry that happened to you. Here’s the card with the code embedded to open the door. Take your time. I’ll be here waiting for my best girl.”
Forever Carly (Second-chance Series #1) by Michele Sims
This is the first book I've read by the author. Forever Carly is the first book in the Second-chance Series. Forever Carly is an amazing book and I will be following the series if I can. If you like second chance romances then this is definitely the book for you.
Caroline or Carly gets her second chance at a romance. Things aren't going like she wants when her job won't do what it should. She finds herself lost then in comes Mason. She falls for him all over again. The quote I chose for her is this: “I don’t believe it. How could Mason allow this? His group bought up most of the homes in that area. If what we just heard is true, the plans will mean that the neighborhood around my parents’ home will be destroyed.”
Mason comes back to his home town trying to help the community out. What he isn't expecting is to run into the one he loved at one point in time. Can he win her heart back? The quote I chose for him is this: “Sure, I have a corporate suite with a private restroom attached on the floor above this one. I heard about what happened in the hospitality suite. I’m sorry that happened to you. Here’s the card with the code embedded to open the door. Take your time. I’ll be here waiting for my best girl.”
July 28, 2026
This story is by an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. One of the things I enjoy about this author is their ability to pull me into the characters' world with ease and keep me there until the end. The other thing I enjoy is the creative characters. They are written with a lot of heart and soul. This is a story about Mason and Carly and their second chance at love. Carly is a girl who has big dreams but what will happen when she runs into her ex, Mason? With both of them having a past, can they reconnect after all this time? I enjoyed watching their relationship grow throughout the story. They are connectable, well developed characters that made me want to know more about them and what would happen. I also enjoyed their chemistry together which made their story easy to read. I found that their story is hard to put down and fast paced. An entertaining story and one you don’t want to miss. I look forward to seeing what is next for this author. I highly recommend this story.
July 29, 2026
3.5 Stars
Forever Carly by Michele Sims is a second-chance romance with a strong sense of place and cultural heritage. Michele Sims crafts a story that is as much about love rekindled as it is about identity, community, and the choices that shape our lives.
The novel follows Carly Rivers, a determined historian passionate about preserving African American heritage sites. Things take a complicated turn when fate leads her back to her college sweetheart. Their reunion after a decade apart is charged with unresolved feelings, old wounds, secrets, and the undeniable pull of what they once shared.
Ms. Sims weaves together the charm of small-town life with the pressures of modern development, while exploring themes of love, forgiveness, and the importance of cultural preservation. There is also plenty of social commentary about gentrification and the erasure of historically significant communities, which ultimately gives the romance quite a meaningful foundation.
A moving, layered romance with heart and purpose.
Happy Reading…
Forever Carly by Michele Sims is a second-chance romance with a strong sense of place and cultural heritage. Michele Sims crafts a story that is as much about love rekindled as it is about identity, community, and the choices that shape our lives.
The novel follows Carly Rivers, a determined historian passionate about preserving African American heritage sites. Things take a complicated turn when fate leads her back to her college sweetheart. Their reunion after a decade apart is charged with unresolved feelings, old wounds, secrets, and the undeniable pull of what they once shared.
Ms. Sims weaves together the charm of small-town life with the pressures of modern development, while exploring themes of love, forgiveness, and the importance of cultural preservation. There is also plenty of social commentary about gentrification and the erasure of historically significant communities, which ultimately gives the romance quite a meaningful foundation.
A moving, layered romance with heart and purpose.
Happy Reading…
August 6, 2026
Forever Carly: A Second Chance Holiday Romance (Second-chance Series Book 1) by Michele Sims.
4 of 5 Stars.
An enjoyable and engaging second chance romance, full of secrets, deceptions, lies, and of course love. Small town girl Carly has big dreams of becoming a renowned expert on historical African American communities. Whilst in Charleston, South Carolina, she unexpectedly encounters Mason, her college sweetheart who she’s not seen for ten years. In that time Mason has transformed his family’s business into an international conglomerate. They are both still getting over their failed marriages, but feel the chemistry between them is still there. Their relationship develops and they rediscover the love they shared at college. However, Carly struggles to survive in Mason’s world of secrets, and once the truth is revealed it could cost them their second chance at love. The chemistry between Carly and Mason sizzles off the page, and I like how they rediscovered their love for one another. I enjoy a second chance romance and this one kept me happily turning the pages.
4 of 5 Stars.
An enjoyable and engaging second chance romance, full of secrets, deceptions, lies, and of course love. Small town girl Carly has big dreams of becoming a renowned expert on historical African American communities. Whilst in Charleston, South Carolina, she unexpectedly encounters Mason, her college sweetheart who she’s not seen for ten years. In that time Mason has transformed his family’s business into an international conglomerate. They are both still getting over their failed marriages, but feel the chemistry between them is still there. Their relationship develops and they rediscover the love they shared at college. However, Carly struggles to survive in Mason’s world of secrets, and once the truth is revealed it could cost them their second chance at love. The chemistry between Carly and Mason sizzles off the page, and I like how they rediscovered their love for one another. I enjoy a second chance romance and this one kept me happily turning the pages.
August 9, 2026
Forever Carly by Michele Sims
4 stars
This is not the first book I’ve read by this author so I had a general idea of what to expect when starting this one. As always, Michele did not disappoint! Just like the other books I’ve read by this author; she manages to create a whole world for me to easily dive into.
She’s a very detail-oriented author which makes it very easy to picture everything playing out in my head. Not only does she create these amazing main characters, she creates a whole set of dynamic supporting characters which help make the storyline feel realistic and entertaining.
I loved Carly from the get go, she’s a strong independent woman with a great head on her shoulders. She surrounds herself with amazing friends, friends I’m crossing my fingers I can read more about them in future books. Mason’s stubborn/headstrong tendencies took me a bit longer to appreciate but he definitely grew on me as the story went on.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for their next second chance romance read!
4 stars
This is not the first book I’ve read by this author so I had a general idea of what to expect when starting this one. As always, Michele did not disappoint! Just like the other books I’ve read by this author; she manages to create a whole world for me to easily dive into.
She’s a very detail-oriented author which makes it very easy to picture everything playing out in my head. Not only does she create these amazing main characters, she creates a whole set of dynamic supporting characters which help make the storyline feel realistic and entertaining.
I loved Carly from the get go, she’s a strong independent woman with a great head on her shoulders. She surrounds herself with amazing friends, friends I’m crossing my fingers I can read more about them in future books. Mason’s stubborn/headstrong tendencies took me a bit longer to appreciate but he definitely grew on me as the story went on.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for their next second chance romance read!
August 21, 2026
Forever Carly was such a motivational romance where the author takes us through a couple who missed their chance at romance in their youth, but they get a second chance at love in their later years. This story rings true to the fact that things are not always what we think that they are, and this story was a great example of this for sure. I loved that the characters were given a second chance to meet and rekindle the romance that had been blossoming from their youth, and that they were able to bond over a meaningful cause. This was the kind of story that you want to read when you're looking for a romance that has excellent life lessons, and where the trials of the characters are motivational for the characters and the reader alike. I cannot wait to read more by this author; she did such a beautiful job of building up the drama between the characters at such a great pace and then having a resolution that comes about in a manner that pulls at the reader's heartstrings.
@Brandy Rymer
08/2026
@Brandy Rymer
08/2026
August 15, 2026
Forever Carly: A Second Chance Holiday Romance (Second-chance Series Book 1) by Michele Sims. This is a great small town romance about Carly has big dreams of becoming a expert on African American communities. She is small town girl who is fiercely independent and knows exactly what she wants. While in South Carolina she runs into her college sweetheart Mason who she hasn't seen in a decade. Carly and Mason are both getting over bad divorces and aren't really up for another relationship no matter how good the chemistry is between them. Mason has a lot of secrets that Carly isn't sure she can get past. Mason has become quite successful but Carly doesn't let him get away with anything. Carly is smart and not naive so she knows what she is getting into and doesn't want Mason to think he can outsmart her. Will she be able to let down her guard to give their relationship another shot? Such a good second chance romance.
August 21, 2026
This is a beautifully written second chance romance. I have read books by this author before I have I always been captivated by the characters. The author creates characters that you can’t help but become invested in.
In this story we meet Carly Rivers. She is a passionate historian who is trying to preserve African American Heritage Sites. Things were going well for her until fate decided to throw her a curve ball in the shape of her high school sweetheart.
Mason has successful build his families business but it’s not without secrets. Secrets he doesn’t want Carly to find out?
Will the secrets he hides destroy any future of him and Carly?
Can they find the love they once shared beneath the layers of life and heartbreak and distrust?
It is a captivating read filled with twists and turns, secrets and lies that I couldn’t put down.
In this story we meet Carly Rivers. She is a passionate historian who is trying to preserve African American Heritage Sites. Things were going well for her until fate decided to throw her a curve ball in the shape of her high school sweetheart.
Mason has successful build his families business but it’s not without secrets. Secrets he doesn’t want Carly to find out?
Will the secrets he hides destroy any future of him and Carly?
Can they find the love they once shared beneath the layers of life and heartbreak and distrust?
It is a captivating read filled with twists and turns, secrets and lies that I couldn’t put down.
August 4, 2026
5 Stars
Forever Carly By Michele Sims
Forever Carly is a wonderfully written Second Chance Romance that is packed with secrets, drama, deception, lies and so much more. These two are high school sweethearts and haven’t seen one another in tens years. Both have pasts and recently separated. There are some secrets that are buried. The more time they spend together the more old feelings are coming to the surface. Can these two have a relationship with each other? Can the rekindle what they had in the past? Will the secrets destroy them? Oh my I could go on and on but I don’t want to give anything away. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.
Forever Carly By Michele Sims
Forever Carly is a wonderfully written Second Chance Romance that is packed with secrets, drama, deception, lies and so much more. These two are high school sweethearts and haven’t seen one another in tens years. Both have pasts and recently separated. There are some secrets that are buried. The more time they spend together the more old feelings are coming to the surface. Can these two have a relationship with each other? Can the rekindle what they had in the past? Will the secrets destroy them? Oh my I could go on and on but I don’t want to give anything away. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.
August 21, 2026
Forever Carly is a sweet, emotional second-chance romance that kept me invested from beginning to end! I really enjoyed Carly and Mason’s story and the way their past and present slowly come together. The mix of romance, secrets, personal growth, and new beginnings gives the story plenty of depth while still keeping it easy and enjoyable to read. Carly is a wonderful character to root for, and watching these two navigate old feelings and new challenges makes their journey feel heartfelt and genuine. The Charleston setting adds a lovely touch, too. Overall, this is a warm and engaging story about love, forgiveness, and getting another chance with someone who has always held a special place in your heart. A lovely read!
August 22, 2026
Okay Wow! I could not put this book down. Michele Sims really knows how to pull the reader in and how to make you feel like you're really in the book. We follow Carly (Caroline) who is steady building her career as a professor of history specializing in African American communities. She comes back to her hometown of Charleston and ends up running into her ex Mason Moore (he took over his grandfather's business and has really turned it into even more of a success) Both divorced and both still holding onto their flame for each other. After hashing out their misunderstanding of a past they decide to give this another shot. They both deserve to be happy again. Will they be able to let their flame turn into a full blown fire? Or will their secrets and careers smother it out?
August 22, 2026
This is a well written second chance romance. This is the first book I have read by this author and I found the writing style to flow well and kept me turning pages as I went through the emotional roller-coaster right along with the characters. Mason and Carly had some emotional baggage to clear up from their lack of communication when their relationship ended a long time ago. Years later after divorces and other life events they have the opportunity to see where their life is going to take them now. This was a heartwarming lovely story. Will they end up getting their second chance at love that they both deserve? This is a must read if you want to find out. I look forward to reading more books by this author. I think you will enjoy reading this story as much as I did.
August 23, 2026
This is a well written second chance romance. I really enjoyed this author, being the first book I have read of her. I emjoyed the writing style to flow well and kept me wanting to turn the pages as I went through the emotional roller-coaster right along with the characters. Mason and Carly had some emotional baggage to clear up from their lack of communication when their relationship ended a long time ago. Years later after divorces and other life events they have the opportunity to see where their life is going to take them now. This was a heartwarming lovely story. Will they end up getting their second chance at love that they both deserve? This is a must read if you want to find out. And trust me you will enjoy this story!
July 28, 2026
This book is exactly what I have come to expect from this author – it is an enjoyable and engaging romance story with emotion and heart. This is a second chance romance about two characters who seem to have so much to overcome. I loved watching them reconnect and try to navigate their new future together, learning about each other again and rising above the obstacles they face.
I thought this whole story had a depth to it that I don’t normally expect from romance stories. It helped me connect not only with the characters but the story the author was telling. I became invested in what was happening and wanted to know more. This was a great story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
I thought this whole story had a depth to it that I don’t normally expect from romance stories. It helped me connect not only with the characters but the story the author was telling. I became invested in what was happening and wanted to know more. This was a great story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
August 19, 2026
A second chance novel that has you going through all the feels. This follows the story of the past coming full circle to the present. We have Carly and Mason who grew up together and fell in love. But life and major decisions got in the way of their happiness. They both continued on with their lives and focused on their careers. But the past has a way of creeping up on you. When a chance encounter at Carly’s childhood home brings them both back together. We see as they navigate their pasts, present and some of their biggest regrets to try and possibly make a future together. Read to see all the twists and turns they face together to get their happy second chance after together.
August 21, 2026
Carly Rivers is back in her hometown again, after a failed marriage that has her in knots. Trying to get back to herself again, she's handling herself like a mostly independent adult, until Mason bulldozes into her life again, and everything is topsy turvy. I felt the chemistry coming off the page between these two. Carly however is the sass queen! Mason kind of reminds me of a rambling awkward adult. Both are looking at each other, like they're not remembering their history and trying to completely ignore it... Fat chance of that actually happening. I loved reading this book. The story building, the characters all drew me in and kept me in until the very last page. This was a great read!
July 29, 2026
Forever Carly is a story of second chances. After meeting with each with 10 years of distance and on bad terms, Mason convinces Carly to listen to him and allow for over due explanations.
Having been college sweethearts, with an underlying spark still existing, they decide to spend some time together getting to know each other in the present.
This read drawls you in, cheering for that rekindling relationship and falling in love with the story. You don’t want to miss this read, so grab it today and relax for a bit and enjoy the story of Mason and Carly
August 18, 2026
Forever Carly is a beautifully written second chance love story. Mason and Carly's characters are well developed with human flaws and frailties that make it believable. Flaws that kept them apart but the yearning was the glue that sealed their hearts desire for one another. This is the first book I have read by this author and I am so glad I gave it a chance. I really enjoyed reading this book, the storyline, the wonderful characters. I haven't read too many second chance love stories and this one is worth the read.
August 21, 2026
Forever Carly was such a sweet second-chance romance! ❤️ I really enjoyed the mix of romance, family, and those cozy holiday feelings. I love a story where two people get another shot at finding their way back to each other, and Carly's journey really pulled me in. It was emotional without being too heavy, and the holiday setting made it feel extra warm and comforting.
This was a great start to the series, and I loved the reminder that sometimes the right person can find their way back into your life when you least expect it.
This was a great start to the series, and I loved the reminder that sometimes the right person can find their way back into your life when you least expect it.
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