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The Summer of Sorrow and Dance
In the midst of a summer of change, they’re both searching for an anchor.
Dinah is a mom, a giver, and a doer, so she’s used to change, but this summer is kind of overdoing that. The diner where she’s worked for half her life is closing, her college-age kids aren’t coming home for the summer, and a property on nearby Cooper Lake is calling her name, bringing long-held dreams of owning a B & B to the fore. Newcomer Zach Applegate is entering into her dreams, too.
Divorced dad, contractor, and recovering alcoholic Zach is in Fallen Soldier, Pennsylvania, to visit his brother and to decide what’s coming next in his life. He doesn’t like change much, yet it seems to be everywhere. But he finds an affinity for remodeling and restoration, is overjoyed when his teenage sons join him for the summer, and he likes Dinah Tyler, too. A lot.
Dinah and Zach each experience sorrow and tumult, but go on to dance in the kitchen. Together, they have something, but is it enough?
Dinah is a mom, a giver, and a doer, so she’s used to change, but this summer is kind of overdoing that. The diner where she’s worked for half her life is closing, her college-age kids aren’t coming home for the summer, and a property on nearby Cooper Lake is calling her name, bringing long-held dreams of owning a B & B to the fore. Newcomer Zach Applegate is entering into her dreams, too.
Divorced dad, contractor, and recovering alcoholic Zach is in Fallen Soldier, Pennsylvania, to visit his brother and to decide what’s coming next in his life. He doesn’t like change much, yet it seems to be everywhere. But he finds an affinity for remodeling and restoration, is overjoyed when his teenage sons join him for the summer, and he likes Dinah Tyler, too. A lot.
Dinah and Zach each experience sorrow and tumult, but go on to dance in the kitchen. Together, they have something, but is it enough?
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2013
29 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Liz Flaherty
75 books351 followersRetired from the post office, Liz Flaherty spends non-writing time sewing, quilting, and doing whatever else she wants to. She and her husband Duane live in the old farmhouse in North Central Indiana they moved to in 1977. They’ve talked about moving, but really…40-plus years’ worth of stuff? It’s not happening. It would require removing old baseball trophies from the attic and dusting the pictures of the Magnificent Seven, their grandchildren.
Liz thinks one of the things that keeps you young when you quite obviously aren’t anymore is the constant chances you have to reinvent yourself.
Liz thinks one of the things that keeps you young when you quite obviously aren’t anymore is the constant chances you have to reinvent yourself.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 7, 2022
A sweet midlife romance, “A Year of Firsts” presents a cute story that is part romance and part journey of self-discovery.
Read full review in the 2022 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2022 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 6, 2023
A mid-life romance, “The Summer of Sorrow and Dance” gives two people in need of a second chance at love and dreams a moment of connection that blossoms into more.
Read full review in the 2023 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2023 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
January 26, 2023
Time for the second of the New Year Teddy's Timely Reviews! Here is a book that can cross generations with ease.
For most of us, fam(ily) is just who we hang with. Here, fam(ily) is more than who we are related to. If you are looking for a lot to enjoy, this is the romance for you..
The cast is vast and the book is epic if you like romance. Dinah's life is a roller coaster ride that just is fun to follow.
Zach's battle is a great base to his story. If you love big family, then you will want to read this.
My first try with this author and I was surprised with how good it was. A really detailed work that takes you deep into the emotional depths of two tragic people.
If you like this author, then you want to buy this. If you like later in life romance, then this is a good one for you. If you are over 30, then this may just be the book for you.
TBH (To be honest), kinda makes me excited that in 15 or 20 years, I can find romance.
A great book and one I recommend.
Disclaimer: I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Teddy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
For most of us, fam(ily) is just who we hang with. Here, fam(ily) is more than who we are related to. If you are looking for a lot to enjoy, this is the romance for you..
The cast is vast and the book is epic if you like romance. Dinah's life is a roller coaster ride that just is fun to follow.
Zach's battle is a great base to his story. If you love big family, then you will want to read this.
My first try with this author and I was surprised with how good it was. A really detailed work that takes you deep into the emotional depths of two tragic people.
If you like this author, then you want to buy this. If you like later in life romance, then this is a good one for you. If you are over 30, then this may just be the book for you.
TBH (To be honest), kinda makes me excited that in 15 or 20 years, I can find romance.
A great book and one I recommend.
Disclaimer: I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Teddy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
January 11, 2023
After Early and Nash got pregnant in their teens, like so many couples, they got married. Thirty years and four kids later (all of whom are launched and doing well), they both know something is missing from their marriage but neither really understands what the problem is. Nash knows they can't go on like this and jolts them both by requesting a divorce. This turns into the catalyst that both of them need in order to truly look at the pattern their marriage had fallen into and realize that changes need to be made. There are no villains here, just two people who've grown apart and can't find their way back to each other without first completely breaking apart.
This story was filled with emotions, anger and bitterness initially, moving into acceptance, then moving on to hope and ultimately, once again, to love, all with a generous assist from their family and friends. I don't typically read Christian romances but I always enjoy Liz Flaherty's books and didn't find the religious references to be overpowering. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story was filled with emotions, anger and bitterness initially, moving into acceptance, then moving on to hope and ultimately, once again, to love, all with a generous assist from their family and friends. I don't typically read Christian romances but I always enjoy Liz Flaherty's books and didn't find the religious references to be overpowering. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2023
4.5 Stars. A good punch of family drama and emotion fuels the pages of this second-chance romance. Early is a strong female lead. She takes care of her family even through the roughest times. She cares for her father-in-law, and even though her relationship with her mother is rocky, Early takes her into her home as well. Both Early and Nash are two lost souls who are bonded by family and watching them rediscover their love was an emotional ride. The plot is engaging and contains a few twists. This is a feel-good story filled with faith, hope, rekindled love, and a never-ending family bond. Reviewed for Still Moments Magazine.
January 5, 2023
Poignant, Happy, and Enlightening
I read this twice in 1 day, and I’m still overwhelmed by thoughts and emotions on how to review it. It’s more than a romance novel, in turns it’s a coming of age novel for those of us that married young and realize life doesn’t always turn out neat and pretty. Any number of times it was as if Liz looked in my head and pulled some of my life’s moments out for me to reflect on. Some of those looks were not rosy but they are spot on.
I just wish I could give this 10 stars.
I read this twice in 1 day, and I’m still overwhelmed by thoughts and emotions on how to review it. It’s more than a romance novel, in turns it’s a coming of age novel for those of us that married young and realize life doesn’t always turn out neat and pretty. Any number of times it was as if Liz looked in my head and pulled some of my life’s moments out for me to reflect on. Some of those looks were not rosy but they are spot on.
I just wish I could give this 10 stars.
February 9, 2022
Syd and Clay's story is another beautiful tale from the incredible voice of Liz Flaherty, who can touch a heart faster than any author I've ever read. Neither of them want to fall in love, but isn't that the best way for it happen? Flaherty weaves a touching and sweet story of two people who find each other when they're not even looking. The storytelling alone is worth the trip to Fallen Soldier, PA.
I received a ARC of this book and the opinions are solely my own.
I received a ARC of this book and the opinions are solely my own.
January 19, 2026
Memorable months.
Life never unrolls at an even pace. The same is true for Ms. Flaherty’s characters in small town Western Pennsylvania.
Dinah Tyler, divorced mother of college-age triplets, finds herself with an empty nest for a summer. Little does she suspect her long-term job will end, she will take a leap of faith to open a B&B, or the brother of a friend picking up a party cake will become integral to her life.
Recovering alcoholic and general contractor Zach Applegate arrives to reassess his life and occupation without the close proximity of his ex-wife. He’s looking for a new place to sink his roots into a community – not a new life partner.
Life never unrolls at an even pace. The same is true for Ms. Flaherty’s characters in small town Western Pennsylvania.
Dinah Tyler, divorced mother of college-age triplets, finds herself with an empty nest for a summer. Little does she suspect her long-term job will end, she will take a leap of faith to open a B&B, or the brother of a friend picking up a party cake will become integral to her life.
Recovering alcoholic and general contractor Zach Applegate arrives to reassess his life and occupation without the close proximity of his ex-wife. He’s looking for a new place to sink his roots into a community – not a new life partner.
July 11, 2022
4.5 Stars. Book one of the Second Chances series is an inspirational, sweet romance. The setting of Fallen Soldier is a place you’ll want to visit. The complete cast of characters are intriguing, especially Jason Benteen (a Vietnam veteran) who is a scene stealer. Syd and Clay have a captivating relationship. The author’s writing has you feeling the emotion on the pages. A beautiful storyline from beginning to end. Reviewed for Still Moments Magazine.
May 18, 2022
Heartwarming story
I loved this story. Syd is on her trip after the death of her husband to have a Year of Firsts. She needed a break from the road and stayed over in a small PA town called Fallen Soldier. There she meets Clay McAlister and her heart catches itself. She rents a home and gets a job and falls in love with the town and the man.
I loved this story. Syd is on her trip after the death of her husband to have a Year of Firsts. She needed a break from the road and stayed over in a small PA town called Fallen Soldier. There she meets Clay McAlister and her heart catches itself. She rents a home and gets a job and falls in love with the town and the man.
February 10, 2023
Phenomenal book! I loved the complex characters, the quirky small town, and Syd's list as she discovers life after change. I couldn't stop reading until it was finished, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.
June 9, 2024
This was a nice read. I was amazed how well I was able to connect to the story and the characters. If you like romances this is a good one to pick up!
July 6, 2025
Second chances born of change
Dinah Tyler is an expert at rolling with whatever punches life throws her way. She's so busy doing that she is surprised when Zach Applegate walks into her life and she is attracted to him. They have a lot in common: ex spouses, kids, work ethic, and imperfections. I love the way Flaherty brings people I "know" from previous stories set in Fallen Soldier, PA into this story. You will be swept into their relationship cheering for the steps forward and aggravated when they push one another away. As a long time believer of the benefits of dancing in the kitchen, I highly recommend this delightful story.
Dinah Tyler is an expert at rolling with whatever punches life throws her way. She's so busy doing that she is surprised when Zach Applegate walks into her life and she is attracted to him. They have a lot in common: ex spouses, kids, work ethic, and imperfections. I love the way Flaherty brings people I "know" from previous stories set in Fallen Soldier, PA into this story. You will be swept into their relationship cheering for the steps forward and aggravated when they push one another away. As a long time believer of the benefits of dancing in the kitchen, I highly recommend this delightful story.
December 20, 2022
Book three in the Second Chance series is a great way to spend a lazy afternoon reading. The author has a skilled writing voice for mixing a wholesome romance with family drama. The plot drives the pages of Dinah and Zach both finding new chapters in their lives and discovering how they balance each other. The family bonds are the highlight of this book, and the author masterfully draws you in with emotional elements of vulnerability and independence. A loveable dog and a cute kitten add to the enjoyment. Reviewed for Still Moments Magazine.
January 18, 2023
The optimal word to describe Liz Flaherty’s tale of figuring out how to fall in love again is “honest.” The heroine and hero, Early and Nash, are realistic, flawed, fiercely loyal to family, and struggling to learn that it’s never too late for love and faith. Flaherty eloquently reveals that sometimes people can overcome the mistakes they’ve made and come out on the other side even more in love than before.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2023
I love this seasoned romance! It’s a “You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone” story with wonderfully relatable characters and settings that draw you right in. If you’ve been married for a long time, you’ll recognize the pitfalls. If you haven’t, consider this story a lesson in love. It will make you think hard as you cheer for Nash, Early, and their family. Love, loyalty, and forgiveness are resounding themes that give this story depth and dimension. There’s so much good stuff here. I highly recommend this book!
March 29, 2023
The story draws you in
Early and Nash are newly divorced after decades of marriage and several kids, but they manage to remain civilized. Early even agrees to a living arrangement where she can keep an eye on her ex father-in-law. Moving to be with him also takes her out of the city, back where she grew up. The change of scenery does her good, as does getting back to her roots. This is a feel-good story that held my attention yet was a relaxing read. I didn’t want it to end. The characters were interesting, decent but flawed, and the story created a soothing escape.
Early and Nash are newly divorced after decades of marriage and several kids, but they manage to remain civilized. Early even agrees to a living arrangement where she can keep an eye on her ex father-in-law. Moving to be with him also takes her out of the city, back where she grew up. The change of scenery does her good, as does getting back to her roots. This is a feel-good story that held my attention yet was a relaxing read. I didn’t want it to end. The characters were interesting, decent but flawed, and the story created a soothing escape.
January 17, 2023
A Soft Place to Fall - I absolutely got lost in the pages of this book, the story lines were immersing. I love the characters, the love shared by the family and their friends. Well written and without any stupid thoughts or actions on the part of the characters, I could not put the book down. I want to read more by this new to me author. 5*
January 25, 2023
I love a good story about somebody who is Reinventing their life. There are so many choices that they could have done when they were younger that they can try now. Wonderful characters and the story. Good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 3, 2022
A delightful and romantic story. I felt very connected to the characters. Zach is such a good dad. I loved the way Dinah bonded with his sons. The summer setting was fun and the author made it come alive with her vivid descriptions and sensory details. I thoroughly enjoyed this compelling novel.
September 13, 2023
Loved This Story
Sometimes, you have to remember who you are to be a good partner. This is a story of loss and growth, and the string holding it all together is love. The best part of all...spoiler alert...it has a happy ending. Don't miss this read. It is so worth it.
Sometimes, you have to remember who you are to be a good partner. This is a story of loss and growth, and the string holding it all together is love. The best part of all...spoiler alert...it has a happy ending. Don't miss this read. It is so worth it.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews