Beginning Again

Second Chances #1

by Peggy Bird

When Liz Fairchild's husband leaves her for a younger man, she decides it's time to start over. So she sells her house, takes her generous community property settlement and opens an art gallery in the Pearl District in Portland, Oregon. A little sweat equity, some interesting art to exhibit, assistance from a surprising source and she's ready to open.

Enter Collins, an up and coming sculptor who also happens to be young, sexy and determined to bulldoze his way into Liz's gallery, her life and her bedroom. He succeeds on all levels. His art is a hit in her gallery; his "to do" list for the bedroom eye-opening and his attention to her like nothing she's ever known.

But something isn't quite right. He disappears for hours at a time, returning from "business" looking unhappy and acting withdrawn. What's he keeping from Liz? Is it another woman? Another gallery? A family?

And does she want to get closer to this man or run as fast as she can to keep herself from being hurt?

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Novella, Ebooks

105 pages, Paperback

First published June 4, 2012

About the author

Born in Philly, raised in the suburbs, I moved to the Northwest as an adult and, other than a year in England and a couple years in Montana, have happily lived here ever since.

My work life has been more complicated. I was a nurse, political staffer, lobbyist, association executive and community affairs consultant before I followed my passions to writing and art glass. Not as much money but a whole lot more fun.

In 2012 my life changed dramatically when several of the books I'd started out writing as mysteries were contracted for publication by Crimson Romance. Since June of that year I've had six books in the Second Chances series released as ebooks and trade paperbacks and a second series, A Holiday for Romance, begun.

Some of the characters in my books share my love of glass art--there's a gallery owner and a kiln-formed glass artist, a glass jewelry artist who has better luck making perfect beads than I do and, in the first Holiday for Romance book, a glass blower. It's an enjoyable way to share my love for glass art through my other love, writing.

All of the books take place primarily in the Pacific Northwest where I live but sometimes Philly, where I grew up. slips in. It's easy writing romances in such a beautiful setting!

I love to hear from readers so feel free to contact me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peggybirdauthor
or Twitter: https://twitter.com/peggybirdwrites

Reviews

[Ro · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews

Liz is an over 45 woman, (a big draw for uniqueness in romance stories already) who’s husband, Mason, decides one week before her 46th birthday to let her know that he’s gay, he’s in love with someone else and he’s leaving her. It’s a good thing she has a strong sense of self, because that might crush a weaker person. All you think you’ve known for twenty years is false?

I will be upfront and say that I didn’t like Mason at all. For me, a cheater is a cheater, no matter if he is sleeping with women or men. He was a liar throughout their marriage and I didn’t feel sorry for him one bit. This was another area where Liz shows how strong she is – she not only forgives that jerk, but she is friendly with him and works with the lover he left her for. Girl, that takes strength of character. Even Collins mentions it to her at one point, and she admits it may be odd, but she really likes Jamie, and that’s good enough for her. So, it’s good enough for me, and I admired her.

There were times in this book when I wanted to shake Liz and remind her, “You are a strong, smart woman. Act like it! Quit thinking with your body.” Collins may have been attractive, but her immediate capitulation to his manipulations made me crazy. I wanted her to make him work for it a bit more, particularly that first time. He just doesn’t give up, and he’s so arrogant. Liz gives and takes, but then she shows that bit of insecurity that makes you want to hug her. She doesn’t want to start anything with Collins because she’s “bad at it”. She believes she is a bad lover, based on her ex-husbands. She is guilty of nothing other than poor choices sometimes. Such as their first time having sex and she tells Collins, who she doesn’t know at all, that she trusts him to be clean and they can forego condoms. Oh, Liz.

Collins was irritating in the beginning and then I started to feel sympathetic to him. He made a mistake, compounded it and then due to guilt poured on by his friend, he didn’t know how to get out of it all. I kept having hopes he would be brave and tell Dave to shove off, but I can only imagine the dread he was feeling, knowing he might have to tell Liz. Liz, who he was falling for.

This story is well written, with characters who are flawed and remain likeable (okay, except for Mason. I admit he just isn’t my cup of tea!) It’s a quick read and the angst level, surprisingly for how much Liz has been through, is low. It has tender moments and funny ones, a nice escape

[Kay Rogal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Peggy Bird's 'Beginning Again'. It is refreshing and well-written as Liz, approaching 50's, and Collins a slightly younger man, find fallin in love and chemistry do not end after the age 30. Liz and Collins are definitely worth rooting for as Liz shows 46 is still in the running and isn't afraid to embrace life and Collins doesn't give up, making things right with the woman he loves!

[Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...


Romance novel authors are in many ways, pioneers. They are not afraid to tackle delicate issues like relationships in which the woman is older than the man. Beginning Again is definitely not the first romance novel in which the heroine is older than the hero, but for me it was the first one featuring a heroine that is way past her early forties.

Liz Fairchild made two wrong choices in her life about men. First, she married young and before she turned thirty she was widow. After that she married a man who, just before her forty-sixth birthday and after fifteen years of marriage, decides to come out of the closet and her life. What one might expect in this situation is that Liz would be one mean, man hating lady. But no, she is the complete opposite. Aware that she continuously makes mistakes in men, she focuses her energy into an art gallery business. And before the grand opening she meets Collins, who is in his late thirties, a lawyer turn sculptor, and they start an affair.

Both Liz and Collins are great characters. Liz is not a bitter middle aged woman, but instead a very strong and brave lady. Collins is also interesting and although his intentions were not completely honorable at first, at the end he turns out to be a really great guy. This is a short and sweet romance novel and it has one component that I sometimes miss from romance stories and that is the courtship. Liz and Collins are actually going on dates, they are enjoying each other's company, and in the process they are falling in love. All this was really nicely described. Another great thing that I love in Beginning Again is Liz’s sexual awakening, and the message behind it; that is never too late to have a great sexual life and to enjoy sex.

Unfortunately there are also two things that made me give a lower rating to this story. The first is in the realm of illogicality. Liz was supposed to know who Collins was, but when he walked through the door of her gallery she was clueless. He is a sculptor whose work was scattered in different public locations around the town. While starting an art business it seems really silly that she did not do her homework before opening the gallery. The second is in the realm of responsible adult behavior. Liz and Collins shortly after they meet have unprotected sex. In the era of all different STDs, I prefer characters having protected sex, no matter what.

All in all I really enjoyed Beginning Again, because it was an easy read that made my gray autumn day a little bit less gray.

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitty's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

4 Stars

Beginning Again was an interesting story about love and trust, an older woman with a younger man and what they need to overcome to get beyond their problems. It was a joy to watch Collins fall in love with Liz and to see Liz accept the fact that she was falling for Collins.

Liz Fairchild is recently divorced. Her and her ex-husband, Mason, parted on decent terms and he is determined to help her out. He left her for another man. He owns a company that teaches people how to run and expand businesses – he wants to help Liz start living her life again by opening an Art Gallery and Interior Design Studio. Once she agrees, her life turns totally around.

Collins is a former attorney who left that life to pursue his dream as a metal sculptor. He approaches Liz under the ruse of looking to exhibit his sculptures in her Gallery. In reality, he was hired by his ex-legal partner to dig up dirt on Mason and his business for a client. He doesn’t realize that Liz would be as beautiful and trusting as she was.
What starts off as a simple business arrangement quickly turns into a beautiful romance. Collins fills a part of Liz’s life that she didn’t realize she was missing. After two marriages, she didn’t think she needed a man, she didn’t think that she would ever love again. She didn’t think that Collins could make her feel things or appreciate her body since her first two husbands couldn’t. What starts off as a game – Liz’s five fantasies – turns into love. Unfortunately, Collins betrays her with his investigation into Mason. Collins can’t live with the betrayal and comes clean, only after taking matters into his own hands and brokering a deal between all parties to settle the lawsuit. But, can Liz forgive him?

“Beginning Again” was very well written. A short story about two people – one who swore he would never want the picket fence and 2.3 children and one who has just given up on love. When they come together, their lust ignites and ashes are left in their wake. I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Bird’s writing, it was fresh and interesting. She didn’t overly go into the characters but you did get to know and understand them. I am glad that this was a short story because it wasn’t over-written like so many books are today. It was precise and to the point. You knew what was happening and understood why.

Review copy provided for an honest review.

[Shalini Ayre · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who would expect to be a widow in their twenties and twenty odd years later divorced? Not Liz Fairchild but that's exactly what's happened to her. The divorce was amicable enough - how could it not be when your husband left you for another man? Now alone, the only person she needs to focus on is herself.

Intent on seeing her happy, Mason (Liz's ex) helps her set up an art gallery. Wealthy after the divorce, she's going to have to downsize but for Liz she's able to decorate with vibrant colors and not the white, beige and cream that Mason so adored. As Liz starts the arduous task of redecorating her new work/live space, she also has to find suitable artists. Thinking she has everyone she needs, in walks 'Collins'.

The attraction is instant. Resolute to steer clear of a May to December romance, Liz finds herself drawn in by Collin's determination of starting a sizzling romance. The handsome, 6ft sculptor is certainly enigmatic and before long he's not only exhibiting in her gallery but opening her up to new experiences in the bedroom.

Liz is still hesitant at the developing relationship especially when he disappears to return looking downbeat and being withdrawn. Asking questions results in Collins either clamming up or changing the subject. What is he hiding? Each scenario Liz runs through her mind equates to being hurt...again and that's the last thing she wants. What is it that he's keeping from her?

A short story romance, Bird's novel is well written and quick to read. Liz is a strong, almost self-assured woman whose insecurities are quashed by the bold and daring Collins. Initially he comes across as quite arrogant but the reader will soon warm up to his ways. With passionate love scenes and moments of tenderness, it's a love story that will appeal. Overall, I enjoyed this engaging romance. It's not in-depth and the drama is low-key so if you're after complete escapism, I doubt you could go wrong with this affable novella. A recommended read for all those hopeless romantics out there (which includes me!)

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive review.

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this was a fun read about an older woman who has been burned twice by men. She just recently got divorced to her long time husband when he confessed that not only is he gay and has been cheating on her their entire marriage, but he's fallen in love with the other man. For me, I was a little confused with how Liz could be okay with her ex-husband after everything went down. I mean if you spend over a decade with a man whom you have an intimate relationship with, wouldn't you be upset with them for not only lying to you but for cheating on you? Not only is she not upset with her ex-husband but she hires his partner to help out with her gallery. Now that right there takes huge cajones.

I know that I'm supposed to be conflicted with Collins but for some reason, I couldn't bring myself to dislike the guy. Yes, his whole reasoning for seeking Liz out was to get information from her but you could tell that something switched inside him when he met her. With that being said though, I felt like he was a bit too pushy when it came to being with Liz. Maybe it was the whole trying to get close to her for information, but it just felt a bit too much for me... but then again this is a novella. I feel like I should add a disclaimer to that... I am not the biggest fan of novellas. It's really hard for me to find a connection with the characters in under 100 pages. However, with that out of the way I must say that I did enjoy this story.

[Moriah Densley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Go ahead - judge this book by its cover. The story is as enjoyable as the gorgeous cover art. Peggy Bird is a pro, and it shows. Smooth, succinct prose, expert comedic timing, and fast pacing from start to finish.

You'll like Liz, the heroine. She approaches her problems with an endearing sense of humor. She's strong but loving, vulnerable but no-nonsense. She even likes her ex-husband. (You'll have to read the book to find out why.) If you like sexy, mysterious heroes who are believably romanctic, you'll like Collins too. He's a sculptor - what's not to like?

I adored the art gallery setting and the fascinating look behind the scenes at an artist's life. The author's detailed knowledge of the art world is impressive. I believed I was in the middle of an exciting gallery debut!

The dialogue between the characters is perhaps the best feature. The characters really shine. I had laugh-out-loud moments. I only wished there was a bit more dialogue instead of narration, thus the 4.5 star rating, but I think readers of category-length romance will find the style to their liking. For a fresh voice, sparkling humor, and sweet love story, pick up "Beginning Again." I'll be on the lookout for Peggy Bird's next.

[Lotchie Burton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book from beginning to end. Author Peggy Bird skillfully wove her tale of a failed marriage, perceived sexual inadequacies and an older woman/younger man scenario together seamlessly. I liked Liz Fairchild immediately with her sharp mind, her no nonsense attitude and engaging sense of humor. Collins is her equal in every way except for a slight difference in age.

At 46, Liz is set upon a new venture in life orchestrated by her recent ex-husband. Though the two are divorced they remain friends, and he convinces her to invest in an art gallery. Her decision to purchase the gallery opens the door to a well-known sculptor named Collins, and the chemistry between the two sizzles from the moment they lay eyes on each other. Collins introduces Liz to more than his reputation as a much sought-after artist. He pursues her and seduces her, and breaks down her walls and her determination to ignore him. He refuses to let her hang-ups on sex and younger men keep him out of her bed. But, Collins is on a mission and he brings with him a burden of deception. What began as simply a matter of getting information turns into something much more complicated, and he is torn between fulfilling a promise to a friend, or risk losing the love of his life.

[Amber Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is HOT! But as well as the steam, there is also a beautifully crafted plot that is just fabulous, and an inspiration for any woman who isn't a 'sweet young thing' in her twenties. Older women are SEXY!!! Yes, indeed.

Liz has absolutely NO confidence in herself, what with the extremely older first husband who showed little interest in her before he left her a young widow, and her second husband divorcing her (after many years of marriage) because he was actually gay. Hmph, no wonder Liz doesn't see herself as a viable sexpot. In her mid-forties, Liz decides that she is firmly a career woman from now on.

Then Collins enters her world. Slightly younger, but infinitely more experienced than Liz. Despite his arrogance and general won't-take-no-for-an-answer attitutde, he swiftly gets Liz involved in all sorts of naughty things, and while they fight against falling in love, they spend plenty of smexy times together, ticking off scenarios from a fantasies wish list.

This was a quick read, but for a relatively short novel, it had enough plot to balance nicely with the steamy side, making it a feel-good read that ticked all the right boxes!

[Bookswithbenefits · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, I was hooked by the premise: a man promising to help a new divorcee learn a little bit about herself and about sex. Just imagine! A check-off list for sexual adventures! It seemed so full of potential for steam and fun... and it seemed like a light read--especially because it came in at so few pages. But this modest little story was so much more than I expected. The characters and their emotional journey had a lot of depth. More than that, although readers know that Happily Ever Afters are a Romance-Novel certainty, Beginning Again had strong-enough storytelling that I was worried all the same. Really happy I read this one.

Just a little aside about the cover: these folks seem so cold and unnaturally beautiful. The characters in this book are so much more human. The heroine in particular doesn't seem to relate to the cover model at all. Although the heroine is beautiful, she is also sweet and forgiving and kind. This be-smoked, be-quaffed cover model doesn't have half the heart of the heroine, Liz, who I simply loved.

[Jo Barney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although Liz Fairchild is cool, tall, smart in all ways, including her taste in clothes, she has chosen wrong twice when it comes to husbands. One too old, one too gay, and so when a stranger comes on to her as she stands on the upper rungs of a ladder, hanging an art piece in her new art gallery, she’s glad she can look down at him, send him on his way. Except his way seems to be the way she’s going. Collins is a well-known sculptor, whom Liz welcomes to her stable of artists once she realizes his value--not only to the gallery but to her own growth as a woman. She is willing to be seduced, but she’s uneasy. Why the secret cell phone calls? Why the furrowed brow when he thinks she’s not looking? This romance-mystery is hot, intriguing, and very, very well-written. And there are three books to come after this one.

[Irene · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the romance for every woman over forty. Ultimate fantasy. Your husband dumps you around your forty-sixth birthday, not for a younger woman, but because he’s gay. Fortunately, you still rock a killer bod and hubby not only left you with a nice nest egg, he’s still willing to be your financial advisor and help you invest in your dream business.

Not enough fantasy for you? Enter Collins – the younger man who is anything but a boy toy. He’s gorgeous, he’s rich, he’s talented, and he’s apparently interested in fulfilling all your sexual fantasies.

This book is utter escapism. No, it’s not realistic but it is sexy and fun and exactly what you need after a day of too much reality. Go ahead, pour yourself a glass of wine and indulge!

[Cary Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peggy Bird has done a wonderful job bringing her characters to life in and around the art scene of Portland, Or. With dignity and determination the heroine, Liz Fairchild, embarks on a new life and runs head-on into unlooked for passion in the very intriguing and off-beat person of Collins. As their romance unfolds, we find that the hunky lawyer-turned-artist has a secret he is hiding from Liz. On one hand, I found I liked him more and more, and on the other I wondered what the secret could possibly be, and how it could ever be resolved. As with any good writer, Bird keeps us guessing and wanting more, and then leaves us perfectly satisfied by the time the last page is turned. Well done. I purchased this book online and have given this review freely and without monetary compensation

[Heather Rodney-Diaz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life begins at 40-something and after two husbands! At least for Liz Fairchild. Who knew opening a new art gallery would bring along an exciting younger lover. In walked Mr. Brash and Bold Collins. (I loved that our hero had just one name!) And he invented a to-do sex list. This was a fresh and creative take on the many sensual scenes. (I especially enjoyed the limo ride!) I really enjoyed this book's fun and playful elements. Beginning Again by Peggy Bird was a light and fast but delicious read.

[Eliza Daly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was immediately drawn into Liz's story and read the book in one sitting. I loved the fact that Liz was 46, since heroines over 40 are quite rare, and that her love interest was a younger man. I also love art so I was intrigued by the fact that Liz was a gallery owner. She was a strong-willed woman getting on with her life after two bad marriages and the sexy artist Collins was certainly the man to help her move forward.(I don't usually read spicy books, so I have to admit I blushed in spots.)

[Denyse Cohen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was glad to be able to read an Advanced copy of Beginning Again, because it's a wonderful tale of learning to love and thrust people after having a fair share of bed luck in life. Liz is forty-six-year-old (which is a great change of pace for romance novels) but exploring for the first time her sexuality and falling in love with a man who seems to be the epitome of maddening. Peggy Bird's narrative puts us right there with Liz and, sometimes, it feels deliciously naughty.

[Tanja ~ KT Book Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a Goodreads Giveaway 3 stars given by http://ktbookreviews.blogspot.com/

Beginning Again is a super short (105 pages) super cute story. I hesitate to say much about the storyline due to the length. It took me only a few hours to read. Perfect if you have a day filled with appointments or waiting rooms. No major plots lines that require a lot of concentration. A light easy read to make you smile.

Not going into the story overall as the synopsis says it all :)
It was cute.
T~

[Deborah Cordes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Does anyone understand how difficult it is to write such a smooth, delicious, sinfully wonderful, and entertaining novel such as this? Well, I do!

I love Liz and Collins and the other great characters who people Ms. Bird's delightful world. Hooray for a heroine of such class, smarts, style, grace and... age. In a world of twenty-something heroines, how refreshing to read about a forty-six-year-old beauty. Well done!

[WiLoveBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liz is older than your typical romance heroine and has been both widowed and divorced. I was pulled into her story right away. Collins is a cocky, younger man and overcomes whatever objections she can come up with, but he has secrets. There is lots of steam and a little angst. It is a lovely book about hope, love, and starting over.

[Lisa Filipe · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the first book in the series and I am moving right on to the second. Peggy Bird has become a New Favorite of mine!! After receiving an ARC of TRUSTING AGAIN, the fourth book and her upcoming release, I bought the first three and I am working my way through...ok...flying through, and enjoying EVERY minute!

[Micah Persell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beginning Again by Peggy Bird is a breath of fresh air in the world of romance novels. Her heroine, Liz, is a forty-six-year-old woman who shows the world a definition of sexy that smart women have always known. Thank you, Peggy Bird, for breaking down walls!

[Leslie G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this novel. It was well-written and fast-paced. I liked the tension the author built, especially when the hero got caught in a fix and then worked hard to set things right. I am looking forward to reading the other novels in this series.

[Peggy Bird]

Yes, I read this. Many, many times. I wrote it. I'd love it if you read it, too.

[Divina · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short read about an "older woman", Liz Fairchild (46) who has gone through two marriages and starting her life again. With financial assistance from her ex-husband Mason (came out of the closet after 15 years of marriage), Liz was dusting off her Art Degree diploma and opening up a gallery. In the process of building her business and preparing for opening night, Liz meets mysterious "Collins" who happens to be a famous sculptor.

Collins(38), charges into her life VERY quickly. Liz is wined, dined and romanced within days from meeting. Unbeknownst to her, Collins had ulterior motives to seek her out and make her acquaintance. He was an attorney from Los Angeles who had left the fast paced life to live in Oregon and become an artist. He was in super-Alpha mode when he goes after Liz, which felt "creepy" at first. How can a mature woman be so trusting after meeting a complete stranger?!! Lost points with this reader. She has dinner with a man she just met and only know his first name. Then she goes to bed with him and tells him there's no need to use a condom - I trust you!! ICK! and Dumb!

This was a short romance which packed enough to keep this reader interested. As a result of it being short, there were a few key elements that I wished the author could have expanded on, that would not have made it so "rushed," especially the ending.

[Shiela · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm not sure if this quit my read, it was ok, however I don't think it was quit something I was looking for.

[Samantha · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was readable with a decent story, but was a predictable romance novel. There wasn't much spectacular or different about it, but it was still well-written enough for me to continue reading.