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Second Chances
ASIN B00BR04SM8 moved to the more recent edition
High school can be Hell. Especially when you grow up in a small town where everyone knows your business and you can't avoid the gossip about your past. That's why, as soon as she graduated, Reagan Murphy moved to New York City to start again. Now in her junior year at NYU and with her childhood positioned in the rearview mirror, the future looks limitless. But when she unexpectedly runs into the one person responsible for the misery of her high school years, will she keep running or will she stick around long enough for a second chance?
Allison Hoge, statuesque and beautiful, made sure she remained at the top of the social pyramid even if it meant stepping on a few heads to get there. But even she had her own secrets to evade after graduation. College can change a person - it can be a new start - an opportunity for reinvention. So when she unexpectedly runs into the one person for whom she made high school especially miserable, will history repeat itself or has she changed enough to be given a second chance?
High school can be Hell. Especially when you grow up in a small town where everyone knows your business and you can't avoid the gossip about your past. That's why, as soon as she graduated, Reagan Murphy moved to New York City to start again. Now in her junior year at NYU and with her childhood positioned in the rearview mirror, the future looks limitless. But when she unexpectedly runs into the one person responsible for the misery of her high school years, will she keep running or will she stick around long enough for a second chance?
Allison Hoge, statuesque and beautiful, made sure she remained at the top of the social pyramid even if it meant stepping on a few heads to get there. But even she had her own secrets to evade after graduation. College can change a person - it can be a new start - an opportunity for reinvention. So when she unexpectedly runs into the one person for whom she made high school especially miserable, will history repeat itself or has she changed enough to be given a second chance?
231 pages, ebook
First published March 1, 2013
92 people are currently reading
645 people want to read
About the author
Eliza Lentzski
30 books851 followersEliza Lentzski is the best-selling author of sapphic fiction, romance, and erotica including the Winter Jacket and Don’t Call Me Hero series. A historian by day, Eliza is passionate about telling the stories of marginalized communities.
Born and raised in the upper Midwest—a landscape that often shapes her novels—Eliza now lives in Boston with her wife and their cat, Charley.
Born and raised in the upper Midwest—a landscape that often shapes her novels—Eliza now lives in Boston with her wife and their cat, Charley.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
January 29, 2015
Okay, I have to say I really don't get why the average rating for this book isn't more than 4. It's so much better than so many other romance novels out there.
It has everything I look for in a love story: intense chemistry, angst, jealousy, sexual tension, a perfect pace, a realistic and original storyline with interesting characters, incredibly hot sex scenes, and a happy ending.
Eliza Lentzski is an amazing writer, not only is the book beautifully written, the emotion shows through as well. The story feels very real, very organic. It's heart breaking at times, but also very sweet, funny, frustrating, difficult, romantic... pretty much as real life would be.
I don't agree with reviewers saying Allison is pretentious. If anything, she is the opposite. Out of the two, Reagan is the stronger one, the braver one. Despite, or probably because of high school bullying. Her skin got thicker. She's not afraid of her own feelings, not afraid to be happy, and takes every punch life throws at her without giving up. She's an incredibly charming and touching character. Allison has lived the life her environment/family expected her to live, and in order to take the pressure off, built up emotional walls around herself so as not to get too close to anyone who could derail her path to perfection. But she's incredibly unhappy, and as the story unfolds, we understand why.... She's been struggling with her sexuality since before high school. And because she always feels like she's not good enough for her parents and "friends", she's also very insecure. Obviously that's no reason to torment anyone in retaliation, but she is flawed and human like the rest of us, and she makes mistakes, survives any way she can. Lentzski absolutely manages to make her every bit as likeable as Reagan.
I really really loved it. I can't say it enough. This story made me feel a thousand emotions and that's what I look for in a romance. The author doesn't waste words. Every chapter is important and brings something to the story. There are no irrelevant details about supporting characters that sometimes ruin a good book. It's one of my favorite in this genre, it goes straight to the point.
Winter Jacket was the first ever lesbian romance novel I had read, and I'd liked it a lot. I don't know why I waited so long to read another one of Elisa's but I am incredibly happy that I did.
It has everything I look for in a love story: intense chemistry, angst, jealousy, sexual tension, a perfect pace, a realistic and original storyline with interesting characters, incredibly hot sex scenes, and a happy ending.
Eliza Lentzski is an amazing writer, not only is the book beautifully written, the emotion shows through as well. The story feels very real, very organic. It's heart breaking at times, but also very sweet, funny, frustrating, difficult, romantic... pretty much as real life would be.
I don't agree with reviewers saying Allison is pretentious. If anything, she is the opposite. Out of the two, Reagan is the stronger one, the braver one. Despite, or probably because of high school bullying. Her skin got thicker. She's not afraid of her own feelings, not afraid to be happy, and takes every punch life throws at her without giving up. She's an incredibly charming and touching character. Allison has lived the life her environment/family expected her to live, and in order to take the pressure off, built up emotional walls around herself so as not to get too close to anyone who could derail her path to perfection. But she's incredibly unhappy, and as the story unfolds, we understand why.... She's been struggling with her sexuality since before high school. And because she always feels like she's not good enough for her parents and "friends", she's also very insecure. Obviously that's no reason to torment anyone in retaliation, but she is flawed and human like the rest of us, and she makes mistakes, survives any way she can. Lentzski absolutely manages to make her every bit as likeable as Reagan.
I really really loved it. I can't say it enough. This story made me feel a thousand emotions and that's what I look for in a romance. The author doesn't waste words. Every chapter is important and brings something to the story. There are no irrelevant details about supporting characters that sometimes ruin a good book. It's one of my favorite in this genre, it goes straight to the point.
Winter Jacket was the first ever lesbian romance novel I had read, and I'd liked it a lot. I don't know why I waited so long to read another one of Elisa's but I am incredibly happy that I did.
July 11, 2013
I read this book after liking Winter Jacket a lot. But this is actually Ms. Lentzski's first book. And the quality of the writing shows. The book blurb sounds promising. Two high school enemies on opposite ends of the popularity totem pole meet up accidentally after several years apart.
Allison, a well-to-do ex-cheerleading queen, ex-mean girl and now Ivy-leaguer, used to bully Reagan all through high school. The accidental meeting offers them a chance to reconnect and for Allison make amends for all her 'sins' against Reagan.
The characterization is rather inconsistent. Reagan is supposed to be a bit of a doormat, someone who detests confrontation and avoids conflicts. At first, she is like that but after things start heating up, she becomes pushy and aggressive. But then, Allison repeatedly avoids/dumps her and she reverts back to her old forgiving self. Huh?
Allison, on the other hand, is quite unlikeable. Despite her repeated 'professing' to atone for her despicable treatment of Reagan in the past, she effectively still keeps on doing it...albeit in all new different ways. By the 80% mark, I thought that instead of 'Second Chances', the title of the book should have been 'Fifth', 'Sixth' or 'Seventh Chances'.... I'd lost count how many times Allison has had to crawl back to Reagan and grovel. And there doesn't seem to be a happy ending in sight. Every time Reagan forgives her, something happens and Allison runs off again. If you like YA, you will better appreciate the drama. But for me, it was just a little too painful to read.
3.5 stars
Allison, a well-to-do ex-cheerleading queen, ex-mean girl and now Ivy-leaguer, used to bully Reagan all through high school. The accidental meeting offers them a chance to reconnect and for Allison make amends for all her 'sins' against Reagan.
The characterization is rather inconsistent. Reagan is supposed to be a bit of a doormat, someone who detests confrontation and avoids conflicts. At first, she is like that but after things start heating up, she becomes pushy and aggressive. But then, Allison repeatedly avoids/dumps her and she reverts back to her old forgiving self. Huh?
Allison, on the other hand, is quite unlikeable. Despite her repeated 'professing' to atone for her despicable treatment of Reagan in the past, she effectively still keeps on doing it...albeit in all new different ways. By the 80% mark, I thought that instead of 'Second Chances', the title of the book should have been 'Fifth', 'Sixth' or 'Seventh Chances'.... I'd lost count how many times Allison has had to crawl back to Reagan and grovel. And there doesn't seem to be a happy ending in sight. Every time Reagan forgives her, something happens and Allison runs off again. If you like YA, you will better appreciate the drama. But for me, it was just a little too painful to read.
3.5 stars
November 20, 2018
My second by Ms.Lentzski, I'm a fan of her 'Sunscreen and Coconuts'
What I liked
- When Raegan and Allison met again 3 years after highschool, they didn't jump onto the chummy bandwagon and became best friends again. What Allison did to Raegan was not easily forgotten hence Raegan remained cautious throughout their rekindled friendship - relationship.
- Raegan
She was a total sweetheart, a vegan, loved and respected her father dearly. She made me finished the book as I wanted her to find someone worthy. Her patience level towards Allison's dramatic mood swings should either be praised or criticized.
What I Disliked
- The cover.
- Allison's hot and cold mood swings. That happened throughout the book and I was curious what triggered them at first but there weren't any. Her only known nemesis was her father but he was an ass#### on certain aspects of Allison's life, not all of them.
- Ms.Lentzski switched lanes without signals. One moment, I was in Raegan's then suddenly in Allison's or somebody else's.
Conclusion
- Is it worth reading this story?
Since it's free and doesn't take much time, yes.
Raegan and Allison do have the chemistry even though it's only 101
( Allison can take credit for that ) but it is written interestingly enough. You'll get frustrated with the push - pull, hot - cold but you can't stop rooting for them. BTW, these two excel in their between the sheets subject.
What I liked
- When Raegan and Allison met again 3 years after highschool, they didn't jump onto the chummy bandwagon and became best friends again. What Allison did to Raegan was not easily forgotten hence Raegan remained cautious throughout their rekindled friendship - relationship.
- Raegan
She was a total sweetheart, a vegan, loved and respected her father dearly. She made me finished the book as I wanted her to find someone worthy. Her patience level towards Allison's dramatic mood swings should either be praised or criticized.
What I Disliked
- The cover.
- Allison's hot and cold mood swings. That happened throughout the book and I was curious what triggered them at first but there weren't any. Her only known nemesis was her father but he was an ass#### on certain aspects of Allison's life, not all of them.
- Ms.Lentzski switched lanes without signals. One moment, I was in Raegan's then suddenly in Allison's or somebody else's.
Conclusion
- Is it worth reading this story?
Since it's free and doesn't take much time, yes.
Raegan and Allison do have the chemistry even though it's only 101
( Allison can take credit for that ) but it is written interestingly enough. You'll get frustrated with the push - pull, hot - cold but you can't stop rooting for them. BTW, these two excel in their between the sheets subject.
April 19, 2017
I'm not sure about this one. Too much angst for my taste. And the concept of forgiving someone that was once a friend then tortures one in highschool and then becomes one's love interest is maybe just a bit too alien for me.
December 2, 2021
6/10
It was a cute-ish story that I read pretty quickly. I will definitely read more books of E. Lentzski and I hope other ones are even better writtten than this one was (since Second Chances seems to be her debut). I already got some.
The story and the MCs felt a little weird, to be honest. A little chaotic and a bit repitive. Allison wasn't having her second chance, felt like Reagan was giving her at least ten. Push and pull. Everything is a blur now to me and I finished reading it just two days ago. Sadly, easily forgetable story, I'd say.
The more I read the less I liked it, but I have high hopes for other works of Lentzski I'll read.
It was a cute-ish story that I read pretty quickly. I will definitely read more books of E. Lentzski and I hope other ones are even better writtten than this one was (since Second Chances seems to be her debut). I already got some.
The story and the MCs felt a little weird, to be honest. A little chaotic and a bit repitive. Allison wasn't having her second chance, felt like Reagan was giving her at least ten. Push and pull. Everything is a blur now to me and I finished reading it just two days ago. Sadly, easily forgetable story, I'd say.
The more I read the less I liked it, but I have high hopes for other works of Lentzski I'll read.
July 22, 2016
I don't know if anyone realized but this is faberry fan fiction, thats why it seems there is something missing or some hole on the characterization. The moment i realized it threw me off, it just doesn't do it for me. It also shows that it is the first book of the author since the writing is way better in later books. The premise is encouraging but as i said the characterization was off, I was looking for lesbian romance books that don't always revolve around older women and on that end this book was what I was looking for. Still it was very hard for me to keep up with the constant stepping back of Allison every time Reagan did something to push her into being somewhat real, and being true to her feelings.
April 26, 2021
I actually liked and enjoyed reading Second Chances. Looking at the cover and the blurb, I thought this was more YA then anything else...which I don’t quite fancy. Having said that, the MCs in SC are young. Junior/Senior in college... so that will make them what? 21/22... that’s what Google said btw. Reagan is just so sweet in this story, so tolerant and patient when it comes to Allison who seemed to be blowing hot and cold every so often. I’ll probably cut her lose if I were Reagan.
Anyway... I liked the story though the cover might need a do-over.
Ratings: High 3s
Anyway... I liked the story though the cover might need a do-over.
Ratings: High 3s
October 8, 2022
My first exposure to this authors works were her already established series and so finding a stand alone novel was very exciting for me coz it was something I didn't have to get super wrapped up in. I'll be honest, the bully and the victim trope is something I dislike, a lot and I did not like it much here but Reagan was so sweet and patient through the whole story(maybe more than Allison deserved at some points). I loved the angst, and Allison's struggles resonated with me a lot. But I did not like the execution, the pov kept jumping throughout the book and I found it hard to know who was speaking. And the ending could have been a little better, I felt like it ended abruptly. I suppose that's one of the drawback of a standalone with no scope for further updates. I feel like this is a very early book by the author coz there's so many differences between this and her more recent series. All in all, it's a decent book, not the best but definitely worth a read. 3.5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2014
I recommend this book. Enjoyable reading, interesting, sweet, hot, even funny, but mostly it keeps you wanting to know more and more until the end.
I give it 4 stars. (You should stop reading now in case you haven't read it yet)
*SPOILER*
From chapter 13 the story got quite unnerving in my opinion.
I was really excited about the whole story, but after this chapter the development of the story was quite frustrating. I personally don't feel too comfortable seeing one of the main characters losing their dignity, I agree that when you're in love you may forget about yourself sometimes, however, it does't justify your self-deprecation. Allison, stubborn, beautiful, smart, sexy, insecure and painfully indecisive. Her thoughts and actions after the half of the book made me wonder if she really "loved" Reagan. I understand that the social pressure could certainly affect someones' decisions, but I dare to say that when you are really in love things that might be too complicated lose a bit of their power, however, despite of her thoughts and actions I liked how reflexive and willing-to-change this character was. Reagan, determined, beautiful, forgiving, sweet, sexy, stubborn and lovely. This girl made me feel sorry for her throughout the book, since she gave it all to stay close to Allison, even after being rejected and sometimes treated poorly.
Reaching the end of the book I couldn't stop longing for someone to appear in Reagan's life that appreciated her and could arouse a painful jealousy in Allison that made her realize that she really could lose Reagan and finally decide to fight for her, considering that the whole time, Reagan was pleading and abasing herself, which by the way, made feel uncomfortable and even though I think it’s great to be perseverant, in my opinion it’s important to know where to focus that virtue.
Finally, I have to remark that what made me give it 4 stars was the epilogue, really well done, (thumbs up to the author), hot, interesting, descriptive (not only the sex scene but also their current situation as a couple). To me, the epilogue made up for the last painful chapters.
All and all, this book was good, interesting and hot.
I give it 4 stars. (You should stop reading now in case you haven't read it yet)
*SPOILER*
From chapter 13 the story got quite unnerving in my opinion.
I was really excited about the whole story, but after this chapter the development of the story was quite frustrating. I personally don't feel too comfortable seeing one of the main characters losing their dignity, I agree that when you're in love you may forget about yourself sometimes, however, it does't justify your self-deprecation. Allison, stubborn, beautiful, smart, sexy, insecure and painfully indecisive. Her thoughts and actions after the half of the book made me wonder if she really "loved" Reagan. I understand that the social pressure could certainly affect someones' decisions, but I dare to say that when you are really in love things that might be too complicated lose a bit of their power, however, despite of her thoughts and actions I liked how reflexive and willing-to-change this character was. Reagan, determined, beautiful, forgiving, sweet, sexy, stubborn and lovely. This girl made me feel sorry for her throughout the book, since she gave it all to stay close to Allison, even after being rejected and sometimes treated poorly.
Reaching the end of the book I couldn't stop longing for someone to appear in Reagan's life that appreciated her and could arouse a painful jealousy in Allison that made her realize that she really could lose Reagan and finally decide to fight for her, considering that the whole time, Reagan was pleading and abasing herself, which by the way, made feel uncomfortable and even though I think it’s great to be perseverant, in my opinion it’s important to know where to focus that virtue.
Finally, I have to remark that what made me give it 4 stars was the epilogue, really well done, (thumbs up to the author), hot, interesting, descriptive (not only the sex scene but also their current situation as a couple). To me, the epilogue made up for the last painful chapters.
All and all, this book was good, interesting and hot.
June 19, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. Two fems that try to understand their growing attraction to each other. I loved their journey to understanding, acceptance and love.
November 5, 2024
There's this joke... "how do you know someone is vegan? They'll tell you."
It's old and dumb, but more importantly, it's as if the author wanted to turn that joke's vegan into a protagonist in a romance. Where do they eat? Vegan places. Why is she vegan? Because eating animals is murder. How often does it get brought up? Basically every conversation. This is just the tip of the iceberg for by this book sucks, but it annoyed me the most.
Also, this isn't really important, but the cover of this book that I read had a girl that looks like she's stepping on the tracks of a train that's barreling toward her. Which, I will note, is not an element of this book at all.
It's old and dumb, but more importantly, it's as if the author wanted to turn that joke's vegan into a protagonist in a romance. Where do they eat? Vegan places. Why is she vegan? Because eating animals is murder. How often does it get brought up? Basically every conversation. This is just the tip of the iceberg for by this book sucks, but it annoyed me the most.
Also, this isn't really important, but the cover of this book that I read had a girl that looks like she's stepping on the tracks of a train that's barreling toward her. Which, I will note, is not an element of this book at all.
September 9, 2020
I’m a bit shocked at the bad reviews on this book. Reagan is a bit of a chill character and I really like how she isn’t sensitive or dramatic. Allison is clearly going through some stuff with her sexuality and I would’ve loved to see her situation with her father explored a bit more.
It’s was a cute not over complicated romance.
Four stars due to my disappointment with the epilogue!
This book definitely had the potential to be great.
It’s was a cute not over complicated romance.
Four stars due to my disappointment with the epilogue!
This book definitely had the potential to be great.
December 20, 2017
I liked this book actually too much. I took note of the irritating dynamics between the MC's towards the end and looked right past it. For some reason this book really struck a chord with me. It had great tension, which I love. Objectively, it was good, but for me it was great!
August 19, 2019
Just couldn't get past their "previous life" & the fact one was so badly bullied by the other yet at page three they agree to go out for a meal. It didn't feel real, and sorry, it never recovered from that.
October 19, 2015
I believe I ran into Second Chances by Eliza Lentzski while buying another book on amazon – it was part of the "customers who bought this item also bought" line-up. Lately it hasn't been that easy to find something new, specially while searching the LGBT section, so I just bought it.
I can't shake off the feeling that something is missing. It's like we land in the middle of this story without knowing exactly where we are coming from or where we are going. Everything is a blur. Perhaps a few flashbacks would have helped? I know they are trying to forget/overcome those situations, but I think it would have helped the reader bond with these characters in a more natural way.
I really enjoyed the writing style, but the pace, the rhythm... it felt rather odd. And Reagan... I know she has the right to feel the way she does about Allison, I understand that she might doubt Allison's feelings, but shouldn't she do something about it instead of always running back to her and then complaining? I know Allison was a bully and that that is something one doesn't simply forget, but she seems like she's trying. And when she thinks she can't make it, she's honest. Reagan is the one going after her, again and again, trying to convince Allison that they have something worth pursuing. Even though one might agree that they should be together, Allison's reasons still make sense. I feel like Reagan should try and walk on Allison's shoes for a while. That or leave for good. Honestly, she was starting to get on my nerves.
All in all, it was an okay read, with its ups and downs as everything else. I do believe this was a debut so I will definitely look for Eliza Lentzski's more recent books.
I can't shake off the feeling that something is missing. It's like we land in the middle of this story without knowing exactly where we are coming from or where we are going. Everything is a blur. Perhaps a few flashbacks would have helped? I know they are trying to forget/overcome those situations, but I think it would have helped the reader bond with these characters in a more natural way.
I really enjoyed the writing style, but the pace, the rhythm... it felt rather odd. And Reagan... I know she has the right to feel the way she does about Allison, I understand that she might doubt Allison's feelings, but shouldn't she do something about it instead of always running back to her and then complaining? I know Allison was a bully and that that is something one doesn't simply forget, but she seems like she's trying. And when she thinks she can't make it, she's honest. Reagan is the one going after her, again and again, trying to convince Allison that they have something worth pursuing. Even though one might agree that they should be together, Allison's reasons still make sense. I feel like Reagan should try and walk on Allison's shoes for a while. That or leave for good. Honestly, she was starting to get on my nerves.
All in all, it was an okay read, with its ups and downs as everything else. I do believe this was a debut so I will definitely look for Eliza Lentzski's more recent books.
March 14, 2015
Great story! But it went downhill a bit near the end. The main protagonist was supposed to change into someone who is strong-will, but instead, she actually lower her dignity for Allison's love. Why!??
She gave Allison many chances before. Saying this is the last time, I won't forgive again, this is not gonna work...blah blah blah. But after Allison once more committed another mistake, she still forgave Allison again. So much for empty threat pshhh.
As for Allison, oh my goodness...I think even the author realizes how ridiculous Allison's personality is. Yes, she is indeed hot and cold. One moment she's kind, another moment she's mad. The only right choice she made is the ending. That's it! The rest of the entire book, she literally made all the wrong decisions and treated Reagan like shit. What more, she is in denial with her sexuality. Yes, she compensated for it in the end, but it still frustrating for me.
Why is this book called second chances anyway? I can't count how many chances Reagan had given Allison, only to have Allison blew it. OTL
I love the epilogue and the ending when Allison finally made the right decision for once (finally). Because of it that I rated this four stars.
She gave Allison many chances before. Saying this is the last time, I won't forgive again, this is not gonna work...blah blah blah. But after Allison once more committed another mistake, she still forgave Allison again. So much for empty threat pshhh.
As for Allison, oh my goodness...I think even the author realizes how ridiculous Allison's personality is. Yes, she is indeed hot and cold. One moment she's kind, another moment she's mad. The only right choice she made is the ending. That's it! The rest of the entire book, she literally made all the wrong decisions and treated Reagan like shit. What more, she is in denial with her sexuality. Yes, she compensated for it in the end, but it still frustrating for me.
Why is this book called second chances anyway? I can't count how many chances Reagan had given Allison, only to have Allison blew it. OTL
I love the epilogue and the ending when Allison finally made the right decision for once (finally). Because of it that I rated this four stars.
December 1, 2015
I don't know for sure, but I think this was a Faberry (Rachel and Quinn, from Glee) fanfiction previously, wasn't it? It must've been. The more I read, the more I saw Rachel and Quinn in the characters. I wasn't a very big fan of the "couple" (they were never really a couple, despite having a loooot of fans, nothing ever happened between those two) on the show, Quinn was horrible to Rachel (who was my favorite character), so I found myself not liking Allison much here either.
Anyway, the cover is lovely, it was what ultimately made me read this book. It was nice, but it reminded me of Faberry, so I was distracted by that.
Anyway, the cover is lovely, it was what ultimately made me read this book. It was nice, but it reminded me of Faberry, so I was distracted by that.
December 8, 2020
This book is nice. But the back and forth with Allison was really tiring to read.
February 5, 2025
Not my favorite from the author. Is an OK book, fast to read and the writing is interesting, you keep jumping from character to character as MC… that kept me on my toes 😅
It felt rushed and a bit… vague at the end.
I liked Reagan, she’s a kind and cool character. Allison however, she gave me a headache with her mixed signals. I do understand she’s just figuring out her being gay and all, but 😖
And the ‘conflict’ with Allison’s dad not wanting her to see Reagan again, and not being ‘ok’ with her being gay was never met. It was mentioned and kinda cause a confrontation between both MCs but was not addressed or resolved afterwards. I would’ve love to see Allison talking with her parents and stood up for herself.
It felt rushed and a bit… vague at the end.
I liked Reagan, she’s a kind and cool character. Allison however, she gave me a headache with her mixed signals. I do understand she’s just figuring out her being gay and all, but 😖
And the ‘conflict’ with Allison’s dad not wanting her to see Reagan again, and not being ‘ok’ with her being gay was never met. It was mentioned and kinda cause a confrontation between both MCs but was not addressed or resolved afterwards. I would’ve love to see Allison talking with her parents and stood up for herself.
August 14, 2013
Reagan "Prez" Murphy left high school in Michigan and the life of hellish bullies behind and went to New York City to start anew in college. Her high school chief tormenter and former friend, Allison Hoge, went to Brown. A chance encounter at a Broadway show and an unexpected offer of an olive branch from Allison starts a rocky progression between the two towards mending their former friendship and perhaps more.
In the large genre of romance, Second Chances pretty much lines up with what you'd expect. The characters are perhaps better fleshed out than pulp romance, and the conflicts are realistic. Which may be the most damning thing of all for this book, as it is so painfully realistic that sometimes you want to smack the characters for being so oblivious. Ah, dramatic irony...the most used and most vexing of techniques...
The book is a pleasant diversion, and comes together through a rather predictable (though, with a few twists) route towards the climax. It doesn't really stand apart in any meaningful way, though the characters are endearing (if sometimes irritating for behaving in such realistic but irritating fashions). I will give the book credit for addressing the difficulties in re-evaluating one's self-view, particularly when it runs counter to what is expected by one's parents.
Overall, a pleasant diversion and a quick read, with some fantastic erotic portions and interesting discussions on body image, sexuality, coming out, and the difficulties of being an adult but still dependent upon one's parents.
In the large genre of romance, Second Chances pretty much lines up with what you'd expect. The characters are perhaps better fleshed out than pulp romance, and the conflicts are realistic. Which may be the most damning thing of all for this book, as it is so painfully realistic that sometimes you want to smack the characters for being so oblivious. Ah, dramatic irony...the most used and most vexing of techniques...
The book is a pleasant diversion, and comes together through a rather predictable (though, with a few twists) route towards the climax. It doesn't really stand apart in any meaningful way, though the characters are endearing (if sometimes irritating for behaving in such realistic but irritating fashions). I will give the book credit for addressing the difficulties in re-evaluating one's self-view, particularly when it runs counter to what is expected by one's parents.
Overall, a pleasant diversion and a quick read, with some fantastic erotic portions and interesting discussions on body image, sexuality, coming out, and the difficulties of being an adult but still dependent upon one's parents.
April 20, 2013
Second Chances was a good read and had some fairly hot sex scenes. The age of the characters is 20ish.
Reagan and Allison run into each other in an off chance meeting. Allison bullied Reagan in high school and it turns out she is trying to turn over a new leaf. Now that she's wised up she realizes she has some amends to make.
Plot is pretty simple...hash out some issues between them and in the mean time they find they have some things in common (i.e. romantically). It seems very plausible.
The characters are really well built. Reagan is a smarty and Allison is a beauty. It vaguely reminds me of another couple :D Although their looks are a bit different. Reagan is a loner type and Allison is a popular girl ex-cheerleader, etc.
There are some perfect moments in the story when a touch becomes so important. I loved those. Also, the author lets the reader really see the differences between both girls and how they are changing. Its well done.
There were a few lag moments when I was thinking where are we going but the story finds its way again. Epilogue is great but dont you dare read it first.
Thanks Eliza. I enjoyed it.
JLNicky
Eliza LentzskiSecond Chances
Reagan and Allison run into each other in an off chance meeting. Allison bullied Reagan in high school and it turns out she is trying to turn over a new leaf. Now that she's wised up she realizes she has some amends to make.
Plot is pretty simple...hash out some issues between them and in the mean time they find they have some things in common (i.e. romantically). It seems very plausible.
The characters are really well built. Reagan is a smarty and Allison is a beauty. It vaguely reminds me of another couple :D Although their looks are a bit different. Reagan is a loner type and Allison is a popular girl ex-cheerleader, etc.
There are some perfect moments in the story when a touch becomes so important. I loved those. Also, the author lets the reader really see the differences between both girls and how they are changing. Its well done.
There were a few lag moments when I was thinking where are we going but the story finds its way again. Epilogue is great but dont you dare read it first.
Thanks Eliza. I enjoyed it.
JLNicky
Eliza LentzskiSecond Chances
January 15, 2018
So Reagan had some terrible experiences with a mean girl in High School, Allison Hoge, who tracks Reagan down later in University as apparently she is in a 12-step program and needs to make amends to everyone she's harmed. Allison Hoge. Even the names sounds mean.
Allison:
Reagan is painted as an individual, bouncing back after the years of High School hell and successfully making a new start in New York after escaping small town Michigan (except, is she from Traverse City? That's not too small.). She runs into Allison who attends another 'train-ride-away' University and they impausibly become friends and then more, even with all of the evidence Reagan should run away quickly. As their relationship grows with baby steps, things left unsaid and further betrayals, Reagan must forgive Allison many more times for new crimes I don't think too many people would tolerate. In short, she becomes a bit of a sop to this Allison Hoge.
We receive information about why Allsion Hoge is such a bitch but they didn't help me like her more - no matter how attractive she is on the outside. "It's her father!" only goes so far.
Allison Hoge's father:
Allison:
Reagan is painted as an individual, bouncing back after the years of High School hell and successfully making a new start in New York after escaping small town Michigan (except, is she from Traverse City? That's not too small.). She runs into Allison who attends another 'train-ride-away' University and they impausibly become friends and then more, even with all of the evidence Reagan should run away quickly. As their relationship grows with baby steps, things left unsaid and further betrayals, Reagan must forgive Allison many more times for new crimes I don't think too many people would tolerate. In short, she becomes a bit of a sop to this Allison Hoge.
We receive information about why Allsion Hoge is such a bitch but they didn't help me like her more - no matter how attractive she is on the outside. "It's her father!" only goes so far.
Allison Hoge's father:
February 8, 2019
Entertaining read
Thank goodness that who we were in high school isn't who we grow up to be!!! (My deepest sympathy if you are…)
This story was absolute perfection!!! With every page I read, the more I identified with & felt connected to these characters then the more I became invested in their journey of revealing pieces of themselves & exploring each other— hostages to the pleasure & pain, intoxication & desperation of love.
It was just so realistic & relatable. I appreciate the rawness, vulnerability of the characters with honesty & integrity in handling the high-school-bully/abusive “mean girls” back story respectfully, reasonably & SO successfully!! Awesome & Amazing!!
Wonderfully written, wonderfully developed, wonderfully told, wonderfully enjoyed.
Thank goodness that who we were in high school isn't who we grow up to be!!! (My deepest sympathy if you are…)
This story was absolute perfection!!! With every page I read, the more I identified with & felt connected to these characters then the more I became invested in their journey of revealing pieces of themselves & exploring each other— hostages to the pleasure & pain, intoxication & desperation of love.
It was just so realistic & relatable. I appreciate the rawness, vulnerability of the characters with honesty & integrity in handling the high-school-bully/abusive “mean girls” back story respectfully, reasonably & SO successfully!! Awesome & Amazing!!
Wonderfully written, wonderfully developed, wonderfully told, wonderfully enjoyed.
April 12, 2013
I found this book on Amazons listing, and its seemed liked a good story but was unsure of the genre as it was my first time reading a f/f erotica/ romance book and it was simply amazing.
Let me first say, this book was well written and really brings to life the journey of individuality, independence And one finding themselves in the midst of so many pressures.
I highly recommend and I am looking forward to reading more books from this author as well as more from Allison and Raegan.
Let me first say, this book was well written and really brings to life the journey of individuality, independence And one finding themselves in the midst of so many pressures.
I highly recommend and I am looking forward to reading more books from this author as well as more from Allison and Raegan.
October 17, 2020
I'm so sad l finished reading it, l want more!
This author's one of my favorites, so l'm not surprised I couldn't put this book down, and finished it so quickly. I really liked Reagen and Allison, would love a follow up (especially if it expands on Allison exploring her dominant side, that Lentzski just teased with!). Actually considering reading it again immediately 😊
This author's one of my favorites, so l'm not surprised I couldn't put this book down, and finished it so quickly. I really liked Reagen and Allison, would love a follow up (especially if it expands on Allison exploring her dominant side, that Lentzski just teased with!). Actually considering reading it again immediately 😊
November 10, 2020
The Best
I just love your stories. I have read all the hero books and loved them all. I must say I was not happy with the ending. I felt like something was missing. Didn't feel right.
This book was great. Reminded me of my crush in high school. Mine didn't end like this one. Anyway
Thank you for the entertainment and I'm so looking forward to reading all the rest.
I just love your stories. I have read all the hero books and loved them all. I must say I was not happy with the ending. I felt like something was missing. Didn't feel right.
This book was great. Reminded me of my crush in high school. Mine didn't end like this one. Anyway
Thank you for the entertainment and I'm so looking forward to reading all the rest.
August 14, 2013
I really enjoyed this book a lot. The characters were fully fleshed out and I could see things from both of their point of views. The former bully relationship is really interesting to say the least. I would have liked to read more about that.
June 24, 2016
3.5 stars
Fun and interesting but it felt unfinished. I wanted to see how Allie would deal with coming out, etc.
Fun and interesting but it felt unfinished. I wanted to see how Allie would deal with coming out, etc.
July 22, 2024
Reading this book, I got the feeling that it's fan fiction repurposed as a standalone novel.
First, the writer was (very) reluctant to use "said" or "asked" as dialogue tags. Instead, she opted for nearly every verb imaginable: teased, husked, stammered, moaned, squawked, snarled, stated, hissed, pouted, sniffed, scoffed, huffed... The list goes on and on. I didn't even gather these as I read; I flipped to two random pages and followed the first conversations I saw. I'm not saying you can't ever use these in your writing, but less is more. They were very distracting. I'm not articulate/smart/well-read enough to explain what it was exactly, but the writing style in general was, well, fanfic-y.
Second, it seemed like there was some context missing to justify how the characters interacted with each other. The book constantly mentioned the bullying, how bad it was, and how Allison was Reagan's "TORMENTOR", but I can remember only two specific incidents that were described. It was hard to understand why Reagan was so willing to become friends with Allison, despite her having made high school a hell on earth for her. The characters' backstories were explained much too late and much too vaguely for my taste.
I had trouble understanding who was who and what their personalities were. Again, missing context. The greatest advantage of fanfiction is having those beloved characters with their fleshed-out backstories and dynamics already established for you. You just need to pluck them into your coffee-shop-vampire-soulmate-omegaverse-AU and jump right into the action. I felt like there was a secret reason to care about these girls that everybody else knew but me... because I didn't watch the show they're from!
Reagan was initially set up to be this poor, bullied girl who escaped to college, became an adult, and now had to cope with the ghost of her past TORMENTOR showing up years later. Allison was described as a queen bee who could do and get whatever she set her mind to. I didn't see it. They were behaving all over the place, and the constant head-hopping without warning confused me to no end. ...Which of them is the competitive one again? (But maybe I'm just telling on myself here.)
The physical distance between the characters was barely utilized. The author can write good banter between the two, so it's a shame that every scene was them visiting each other. You can do interesting things with a long-distance setting, and none of them were here.
The flirting irked me as well. There was a point where Reagan was coming on way too strongly onto Allison. And the constant comments about how beautiful and perfect and whatnot Allison was... It would've had my skin crawling if someone who wasn't my one true soulmate said them to me, and even then...thin ice.
In any case, to keep up with the spirit of the book, I'm going to end my ramblings quite abruptly and without the emotional payoff for forcing you to wade through the ~600 or so words that this ended up being.
If Reagan had to place the girl’s ethnicity, she’d probably guess American Indian. Allison was having coffee with the live incarnation of Pocahontas.(To be fair, this is Lentzki's first novel or one of the first that I can find in her profile, and plenty of authors have popped their cherry by publishing reskinned fanfiction.)
First, the writer was (very) reluctant to use "said" or "asked" as dialogue tags. Instead, she opted for nearly every verb imaginable: teased, husked, stammered, moaned, squawked, snarled, stated, hissed, pouted, sniffed, scoffed, huffed... The list goes on and on. I didn't even gather these as I read; I flipped to two random pages and followed the first conversations I saw. I'm not saying you can't ever use these in your writing, but less is more. They were very distracting. I'm not articulate/smart/well-read enough to explain what it was exactly, but the writing style in general was, well, fanfic-y.
Second, it seemed like there was some context missing to justify how the characters interacted with each other. The book constantly mentioned the bullying, how bad it was, and how Allison was Reagan's "TORMENTOR", but I can remember only two specific incidents that were described. It was hard to understand why Reagan was so willing to become friends with Allison, despite her having made high school a hell on earth for her. The characters' backstories were explained much too late and much too vaguely for my taste.
I had trouble understanding who was who and what their personalities were. Again, missing context. The greatest advantage of fanfiction is having those beloved characters with their fleshed-out backstories and dynamics already established for you. You just need to pluck them into your coffee-shop-vampire-soulmate-omegaverse-AU and jump right into the action. I felt like there was a secret reason to care about these girls that everybody else knew but me... because I didn't watch the show they're from!
Reagan was initially set up to be this poor, bullied girl who escaped to college, became an adult, and now had to cope with the ghost of her past TORMENTOR showing up years later. Allison was described as a queen bee who could do and get whatever she set her mind to. I didn't see it. They were behaving all over the place, and the constant head-hopping without warning confused me to no end. ...Which of them is the competitive one again? (But maybe I'm just telling on myself here.)
She’d always known that Allison was beautiful in that Anglo-Saxon perfection kind of way.The plot itself was a mess. I felt like things were happening because the author needed more conflict between the two or needed to put them in specific situations (fanfic-y), and not because it organically made sense for the story to take a turn there. Just a bunch of very convenient coincidences that had me rolling my eyes. It seemed like the author was coming up with these things as she went (also fanfic-y).
The physical distance between the characters was barely utilized. The author can write good banter between the two, so it's a shame that every scene was them visiting each other. You can do interesting things with a long-distance setting, and none of them were here.
The flirting irked me as well. There was a point where Reagan was coming on way too strongly onto Allison. And the constant comments about how beautiful and perfect and whatnot Allison was... It would've had my skin crawling if someone who wasn't my one true soulmate said them to me, and even then...thin ice.
In any case, to keep up with the spirit of the book, I'm going to end my ramblings quite abruptly and without the emotional payoff for forcing you to wade through the ~600 or so words that this ended up being.
She had climaxed before with other partners and from her own ministrations, but this felt new.
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