Second Chance Serenity

Coastal Hope #3

by Jessica Ashley

She never stopped loving him. He’ll risk everything to protect her.

When Michael Anderson left town to join the military, Reyna’s dreams of forever shattered. Once inseparable high school sweethearts, their perfect future crumbled with his sudden departure, leaving her heartbroken and unable to move on.

Years later, Michael returns—not as the carefree boy she once loved, but as a seasoned Army Ranger turned elite bodyguard. Haunted by regret, he’s determined to win Reyna back and prove he’s a man she can trust. But when someone tries to abduct her, Michael’s mission becomes more urgent: protect the woman he never stopped loving.

Reyna isn’t sure what’s more dangerous, the stranger intent on capturing her or the possibility of trusting Michael again. His touch still stirs a longing she’s tried to bury, but her still fresh heartbreak is a warning to stay guarded.

As danger closes in and tragedy forces them together, Reyna and Michael must confront their shared past and the feelings neither can deny.

This time, Michael is ready to fight—not just for her safety, but for the second chance they both deserve.

Can they rebuild what was lost, or will fear and broken trust keep them apart forever?

Dive into this gripping story of romance, redemption, and suspense where hearts are on the line and trust is the ultimate gamble. If you love second chances, swoon-worthy heroes, and edge-of-your-seat thrills, grab your copy today and discover if love can conquer the past—and the danger threatening their future!

Genres: Christian Fiction, Christian, Romance, Audiobook, Romantic Suspense, Suspense, Clean Romance

354 pages, Paperback

First published June 24, 2024

About the author

Jessica is an Army veteran who lives in Texas with the love of her life and their three children.

After spending nearly a decade writing spicy paranormal and fantasy romance as a USA Today bestselling author, she felt the desire to do something completely different.

She will still tell heartbreakingly beautiful stories with strong women and protective men, but this time they will also feature the joy of faith, and the importance of following God in whatever journey He sets you on.

Reviews

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica Ashley’s Second Chance Serenity is a beautifully written novel that captivates readers with its powerful themes of forgiveness, faith, and love. It’s a story that entertains, inspires, and uplifts, reminding us of the transformative power of God’s grace. Whether you’re a fan of Christian fiction, romantic suspense, or simply looking for a heartfelt story about second chances, this book is a must-read. Ashley has crafted a narrative that speaks to the soul, making it a treasure for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of forgiveness and redemption.

Ashley’s exploration of forgiveness is both poignant and thought-provoking. The author beautifully articulates the struggle with forgiveness through Michael and Reyna’s journey. As Michael grapples with his past mistakes and Reyna battles to let go and move forward, readers are personally reminded of the importance of forgiveness. Ashley’s reflections on forgiveness are particularly moving: “And how foolish is it that I struggle with forgiving, yet I ask for it from our Savior? When I sin on a daily basis, sometimes not even being aware enough to know that I am doing something that goes against God?”

The characters in Second Chance Serenity are richly developed and relatable. Michael’s transformation from a wounded veteran to a protective Christian hero is both inspiring and touching. His journey reflects a man deeply committed to serving God and seeking redemption. Reyna’s struggle to trust and forgive is portrayed with emotional depth, making her a character that readers can empathize with.

One of the standout aspects of the novel is the keen sense of community and support. The small-town setting of Coastal Hope provides a backdrop where everyone looks out for each other, embodying the Christian principle of loving one’s neighbor. This sense of belonging and mutual care adds an extra layer of warmth to the story.

Second Chance Serenity garners praise for its engaging plot, well-drawn characters, and the seamless integration of the Christian faith and values into the storyline. The novel beautifully balances romance, suspense, and spiritual growth.

Jessica Ashley’s Second Chance Serenity is a heartfelt and captivating Christian romantic suspense novel that masterfully weaves themes of forgiveness, redemption, and unwavering faith into a story that resonates deeply. In Second Chance Serenity, Jessica Ashley crafts a stunning tribute to the power of second chances and the profound impact a personal relationship with Jesus, His forgiveness, and God’s grace can have on our lives. I wholeheartedly recommend Second Chance Serenity to anyone looking for a moving and inspirational read that celebrates the transformative power of love and faith.

I received a digital ARC of Second Chance Serenity from the author. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Joanna White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even better than the last two!

Wow! Jessica Ashley is officially my favorite military romantic suspense author! I genuinely thought I wouldn't enjoy this book because I wasn't aa invested into this couple as the last one and then I read 164 pages the first night I read it. I read about 100 more the next night (yesterday) and finished it tonight in 3 days! Just wow!

I was genuinely hoping she would change things up going into this because she's developing a pattern (which is perfectly normal for most romances especially series of standalone romances but also not what I enjoy since I don't like to be able to predict things) but she changed things up and did a situation with like 3 or 4 twists I did NOT see coming, and the entire middle section of the book was so good! Massively intense, and I LOVED IT!

I did call the person behind it from the beginning but did have other suspects in mind as the story went on, and the ending still sticks with her typical pattern but she did throw a small change in that as well which helped. That and the epic middle kept this one from being a predicable, disappointing ending scenario like the last book.

She does need a better developmental editor. Maybe it's because I am one, but I'm catching things that an editor should have caught, and she still needs more descriptions at times but that doesn't distract from the story.

The romance in this one is soooo good. I got so many feels while reading, and my heart went out to both characters many times. She is also a very good writer, and I marked down some of the lines because they were so good. I enjoyed the Christian themes and the no spice romance.

Overall, I did enjoy this story so much. 4.75 stars for me!

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving this series! These books are so good, from the romance to the suspense to the humorous moments, they have been pretty much perfect reads for me. The latest in the series features, Michael and Reyna, and their story is fantabulous! I loved the drama of their backstory, the danger of who’s after Reyna, all of it comes together to make a story I could not put down. I am hoping some of the new faces we meet in this story get their own stories super soon. Looking forward to Book 4, as it will go straight to the top of my TBR as soon as I get my hands on it!

I received an ARC of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

[Chelsey D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Love High-school sweethearts? Action? Faith? Fast-paced? Read this Christian Romantic-Suspense book.

Oh my word. What can I say? Jessica deserves to be more recognized. There are no words (NONE) to express the love I have for her writing. How she navigates FAITH in her writing never seems disappoints me. It is clear to me that the Holy Spirit is with her when she is in her writing mode.

The plot. Wow. Did not expect that. New and old characters. Fantastic! THE ACTION. *chefs kiss* THE ENDING. One hundred thousand stars. Beautiful!!! if you know you know *wink*

Michael and Reyna’s love story wasn’t like anything I’ve ever read. I’ve read enemies to lovers (romantasy reader here) but never of heartbreaks and reconciliation. So the way that she explained it her was amazing. There were ups and downs (and fighting) that brought them together. I loved how the author explained how everything happens for a purpose. His purpose. So if you are struggling to understand why something comes in our path, try reading this for a better understanding.

Whenever he was hurt, it hurt her. And vise versa. She realized that she still loved him even after the mistakes he did. Loved how she said that no one is perfect and deserves a SECOND CHANCE 🤍

PS. Searching for Peace (which btw you don’t have to read) was her first book I read and while reading this book I realized how much Elijah seems to me, I just wished that there were more Andie and Elijah moments because they were rarely shown together here.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore this series! Michael and Reyna may be my favorite couple yet! So much heartache….high school sweethearts who were separated for young stubborn reasons. Watching them reconnect….when Reyna stops being so stubborn…lol
The high stakes and fast pace of this story had me unable to put it down! I read it in one day! The twist at the climax! Oh my! Trust me….you don’t want to miss this story. I would suggest reading the previous books in the series before starting this one. It just helps keep everyone straight and why would you want to miss out on more awesome stories!

[Barbara Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another excellent book in this series. My heart hurt from Michael and really for Reyna too, but I got aggravated with her because she just was so unforgiving. That said, I enjoyed watching God work in her heart to free her from anger and bitterness.

This one was action packed and had a lot of gut punch moments.

Trigger warning: PTSD

[Allyson Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Chance Serenity focuses on Michael and Reyna who has a history. Reyna has a hard time forgiving Michael who left her in high school and letting him explain why. As their story unfolds, we discover the reason why he left her. This story is about forgiveness and second chances and has danger, romance, tension, and healing. This story kept me engaged and I couldn't put it down.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book. I loved the second chance romance between Michael and Reyna the suspense will keep you up late to the night reading. How they grow in their face and learn to trust each other again. I love a second chance romance, one of my favorite tropes.

[Nicole T · Rating 5 out of 5]

This might just be my favorite one so far! I can't get enough, I wanna go to their world🥹

[It's Sunrise Again · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love romantic suspense, with the ongoing theme of forgiveness, then you'll love Second Chance Serenity. A second chance novel that reminds the reader that forgiveness is A) a process and B) important as without it we can easily get stuck.

This is my third Jesscia Ashley novel, and I have to say with each book, and I am more impressed with her writing. I can't wait for the next book of the series!!

My favourite character was Lily with her diner advice, and my favourite quote was “We have God,” I tell her, nodding toward the sky. “And He is going to carry us through this.”

I received an ARC from the author, but I wasn't required to leave a review.

[Parkland Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ & 1/4 (4.25 stars)
Read: September 2024

Series: Coastal Hope, #3
Format: Audiobook borrowed from Everand
Narrator: Savannah Rivers* and Jarman Day

Book #96 of 2024: [*Again, Savannah Rivers is excellent but I didn’t care for the male narrator]

I just began reading this author this month and this is the third book in the series I started. I will be reading the fourth and fifth (just released!) before long.

The female main character (FMC) was jilted the night before her wedding years before. To say things are tense between her and her former fiancé would be woefully inaccurate. The main male character (MMC) has been home from active military duty for a few years, still in love with her, and she isn’t having it. At all. But the sparks and emotions are there under the surface. Neither one has found anyone else that even came close.

When the FMC’s life becomes endangered, they are forced to be around each other a great deal—for her protection. Memories surface and all that nearness kicks in. She finally learns more about why he left and the ice begins cracking. The drama intensifies and feelings are pushed to the forefront. Throw in some twists and turns and you have a third great book in this series!

I will definitely read the next two books. I appreciate the prayers, Christian values, and Scripture references woven throughout.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m going to start by saying I received an ARC of this book from the author. This is a second chance romance. It is a Christian Romantic Suspense book which is one of my favorites. This book is amazing. The main characters are Michael and Reyna. They were high school sweethearts and had a future planned together. Something happened and they ended up separated. When God has a certain person for you they will always find a way back to you. This book had a lot of learning to forgive. There was a lot of suspense in this book that I stayed on the edge of my seat. I loved the side characters in this book. Michael’s coworkers and their significant others are like one big family. This book is truly wonderful. If you like Christian Romantic Suspense books then read this. Also, I can’t wait to read about Jaxson next.

[Glenda Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review today is on the Christian Romantic Suspense, Second Chance Serenity. This is book three in the series Costal Hope. Jessica is one of my new favorite authors. I have really enjoyed this series and I'm now in the middle of the fourth book. I love the characters and the storyline. I know you are going to love this story.

Security Agent Michael Anderson is an ex-Army Ranger. He had left Hope Springs right before his graduation after trouble with his father. He left his fiancée with out saying good bye. Now that he has returned and is an elite security agent. The only woman he has ever loved wants nothing to do with him. When she is in danger her brother hires the security firm but she doesn't want Michael to be apart of it. It breaks his heart but he is bound to protect her. Her brother, his ex-best friend asks him to keep her safe.

Principal Reyna Acker was heartbroken when Michael left. They had so many hopes and dreams but it was all gone. Michael had written to her but she refused to read them. Now he is back! She still loves him but can't forgive him. Now someone is out to kidnap her and is trying to kill those around her. Michael is there for her. Can they reconcile?

A terrifying journey where men are trying to kidnap her and kill everyone around them. Who are these people that just keep coming. God has a plan for these broken souls, a good plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too. Give Him your heart and watch Him work out your problems.

[Lori | Faith in Bloom · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Chance Serenity by Jessica Ashley is the third book in the Coastal Hope series. Words can't express how much I love this series and the Knight Security team. Every book focuses on a different member of the team who have their own particular set of skills not to mention being drop dead gorgeous. This book is all about Michael who was a former army ranger turned security specialist. He is excellent at his job and is the type of guy that will do anything for anybody. That is especially true when it comes to his ex-girlfriend, Reyna. Michael deeply regrets what has happened in their past. If only she would forgive him and things would change for the better. I felt for Michael and Reyna because it was evident that they still loved each other very much. The series of events that take place for them throughout the book, impacts their relationship. The author takes them on an action packed journey that brings their feelings to the surface and heals old wounds. If anybody deserves a second chance it is definitely Michael!

The heart stopping action and romance in every book is absolute perfection! The comradery among this group of Knight Security men is simply amazing. All of these guys have a great amount of faith in God which is so inspiring. I never knew Christian romantic suspense even existed until I picked up the first book in this series last year. This is the type of feel good and faith filled series that I didn't even know that I needed! I'm currently reading book four and honestly every book is just as good if not better than the one before it! Once you start this series you will be hooked!

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, Michael and Reyna. This one is an emotional read. As a young couple they planned their future together until, right before graduation, Michael left town without a word. Reyna never really got over the abrupt departure and even when Michael comes back to town she gives him the cold shoulder for 5 years where we pick up with them. Michael regrets how he handled everything at 18, and Reyna built a thick wall around her emotions to avoid ever getting hurt by him again. Sometimes, the emotional wounds of youth are the hardest to overcome and the hardest to forgive. I think forgiveness comes a little easier with age, but it really depends on the damage caused. When Reyna becomes the target of a madman, she refuses Michael’s help, insisting only the rest of his team can protect her. But, of course, circumstances throw them together constantly and force them both to address their past and, while relying heavily on their faith, get through the trauma. It takes some extreme circumstances, and a rough road emotionally, but the turmoil is worth it to get through to the end. This might be my favorite couple so far in this series. It’s still very action packed with a couple extra twists (this town definitely gets it’s share of evil!) and shows how important it is to have a solid crew of friends to help you when things go bad.

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
" . . . . what was your reason for leaving?"

It always came back to that, didn't it? No matter how hard Reyna tried to erase everything about Michael Anderson from her conscious thoughts, the answer to the question that he had never given her stood between them like a steel door. They had been high school sweethearts, he had asked her to marry him for goodness sake, and then he was gone. And now he's back.

Working as a professional bodyguard in his hometown of Hope Springs has brought Michael geographically back in close proximity to the woman he never stopped loving, but from an emotional standpoint? The woman was about as friendly towards him as a prickly porcupine. However, one rainy night, when Michael happens upon a brutal attempt at a kidnapping and realizes that Reyna is the woman being thrown to the ground, a seismic shift takes place within him. Protect her.

This second chance romance begins like an uncomfortable barefoot trek along a pebbled path, but Reyna and Michael don't give up and that's a good thing. Their perseverance is going to be tested beyond human limitation, placing God squarely in their midst and demonstrating His ability to make all things new.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Coastal Hope Book #3

Jessica Ashley has a way of intertwining suspense, romance, faith, and found family in a way that pulls me in with each book.

In this second chance romantic suspense we follow Michael and Rayna. They were planning for forever, until Michael walked away and joined the military. Years later Michael and Rayna are back in the same time. While he’s been trying to befriend her for the last five years, Rayna is still dealing with the anger and hurt. When Rayna becomes a target the Knight Security agency is hired to protect her. Will Michael and Rayna be able to work things out before the danger gets to them?

I love series that follows private security agencies and the Knight Security agency has been a great one to follow. Michael and Rayna struggle with their own issues throughout this story, and a lot of hurt to overcome. It did take a long time (5+ years) for them to get to the sincere apology/hearing the other out part. While I wanted them to handle things sooner, I’m happy with how their story concluded.

I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

#ChristianRomanticSuspense
#SecondChanceRomance
#PrivateSecurityAgency
#CoastalHarbor#3

[Megan Crofton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had been looking forward to Michael's story because his character was so present in the other books and he is so different than the other guys at Knight Security, and it didn't disappoint! The second chance romance and the theme of forgiveness was done so well.

I thought Michael and Reyna were such great MCs in their own rights but also were so great together. Their relationship history made for a roller coaster of a story and I loved the slow burn up to their renewed relationship. They both just couldn't resist each other. Their story was a beautiful story of forgiveness both with others but also ourselves.

I loved the suspense of this one! The entire plot was a mystery and I enjoyed the build up. It was definitely a page turner. Being introduced to some new characters that will have stories in later books was great as well. I loved the action, the found family, the reconciliation, and the forgiveness themes. This one had slightly different vibes from the first two and I really enjoyed it. Jessica Ashley really has a way with words and with weaving faith into the suspense.

[BriAnna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I give it 4.75 rating! This was the first book I’ve read of this author and I am definitely a fan! It is well written and the story definitely deserved the given expectation and I love that the characters have a relationships with God but not your typical fake struggles. She’s struggling with forgiveness, anger and refusal to let go. He struggles with temptation of revenge, self forgiveness and anger…. Their struggle are similar but are different…
I love that the author has him recognizes the devil playing with his emotions and rage and acknowledge it. It’s all of that is completely relatable.

Only reason it’s not a perfect 5 is because I wish there were more intense scenes like the hallway and/or build up where she wasn’t being grumpy with him before and moments where they wanted to kiss but something happened or having more softer heart or heart moments not during a stormy moment. Lol idk if that makes sense but that’s just a personal preference. Overall I REALLY enjoyed it and HIGHLY recommend it!!!

[Lettie Loo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Michael and Reyna have a past. High school sweethearts, he just up and leaves her to join the army, breaking her heart...and her trust. He's been back in town for 5 years, but she still won't even look at him.
Yup - you guessed it. Back in Hope Springs, Maine. This time, the focus is on Michael. When he comes across a man in black trying to kidnap Reyna in the parking lot of the high school, he comes to her rescue...not that she's pleased about it. Her brother and parents convince her to get protection from Knight Security, and, as things go with these guys...Reyna and her bodyguards are pulled into multiple hairy situations.
This story is lighter than the last, with Michael not going through the heavy PTSD moments. Instead, he's fighting his own demons and struggling to tell Reyna the truth about why he left all those years before.

[Laurynn Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

This action-packed adventure novel has all the feels from grief to suspense and Swoon-worthy romance! This slow-burn novel was timed very nicely. It has the enemies to lovers trope, the protective MMC who will stop at nothing so his love-interest is safe trope, with a healthy mix of close-proximity. I usually can’t stand slow burns, but this was written so there was action and healing along the way which took my mind off of “will they or won’t they?”. My mind was too focused on “come on, find whodunnit!!” So, so, good! The character developments of Michael and Reyna are wonderfully written and I love how they come to God for help in their trials. I love this novel and I am looking forward to reading more from Jessica soon. I definitely recommend this novel! And I love that it can be read in any order!

[Ramona · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'd enjoyed reading this suspense story by Jessica Ashley that is about Michael Anderson a security guard and Reyna Acker a school principal. This second chance romance was my first by this author. I'd would class this as a Christian/clean romance. It was an engaging read that was well written with plenty of drama, action, and romance, and I liked the characters very much. Michael left his high school sweetheart Reyna to enter the military. He returns years later and works in his friends Security firm. Reyna hurt from the past rejects Michael who is trying to renew their past relationship. When Reyna life is threatened, Michael come forth. Is this his chance? I'd volunteer to read and review this copy I'd received.

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg so good I've got to read it again. Had all the feels, the retribution, the forgiveness and the romance.

When Reyna is being targeted, Michael is forced to step up even though their history of him walking away doesn't allow her to trust him again easily.

Had that team spirit and the all for one aspect of the story. I enjoyed the friction between Reyna and Michael and the give and take of the romance. They did have a real connection that rivals all time. Swoon worthy.

Very well done, I'm loving this series and this author had a great writing style that's easy to read with action enough to engross you in the story from start to finish.

Fantastic book absolutely!!

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read, probably the best of the three so far. Ashley is a new author, but she is fast showing she has a place in the Christian suspense market.
Loved the characters - old and new - and especially Michael. I wanted to smack Reyna most of the time though :)

Non stop suspense, and the author did a great job of keeping the who and why for most of the book. I admit to being a little surprised at the one bad guy - I suspected a bit early on, but was still surprised.

Great message of forgiveness throughout the story.
Definitely a 5 star read.
Looking forward to Jaxon and Margot's story.

[Denise A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Christian romantic suspense!! This story focused on forgiveness and how even believers can struggle with forgiving someone who has hurt you deeply. The book was well written and the characters were relatable, although I did get frustrated at Reyna several times. The suspense increased throughout the book, very intense at times!! There were definitely twists and turns I didn’t see coming, which I love! It’s always fun to see favorite characters from other books show up and let us see what’s going on in their lives :-) Overall a great book, part of a wonderful series, and I recommend it and the rest of the books!!

[Cindi Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book

This is the 3rd book in this series and I honestly believe that each one gets better and better. I loved how this author weaves her stories. There is lots of action, swoon worthy kisses and best of all healing with the help of our Lord and Savior. I read this book so fast, I feel like I need to go back and read it again in case I missed something. I love this author and have not been disappointed with any of her work. I can't wait to read the next one in this series.

[Ifeoluwa Shobande · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG, I said this with my last review that you book has a way. The surprised, the actions, you won't know who is the bad guy or the sociopath or the brain behind the chasing and the one trying to kill the good guy's girl. 😂 🤣 😅 💀 🤔


Thank you for this series. I started this book very late, and I did not put it down until I was done. The need to know who the sociopath in this book is was more than my heart could handle.

I need to give your big flowers 💐 😔 for this. Thank you, Jessica Ashley 💖 ❤️.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another awesome romance in a fast-paced story… I like the way this author weaves a tale of suspense, keeping the inspirational parts woven in so naturally, keeping the action clean and believable at the same time. This story drew tears because the heartbreak of the moment came through so clearly. Well done overall, though I did peg one of the characters as an antagonist early on. I’m continuing the series and hoping the next antagonist isn’t so clearly a villain. I’m totally invested in the series, though. And if you love inspirational suspense romance, I recommend you give this book a try.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm hooked on Costal Hope

Read this 2nd chance romance story in two days! I absolutely loved Micheal and Reyna's story of grace, redemption, forgiveness and healing, with of course plenty of unexpected twists and turns! This is the 2nd book I've read in row in this series. I started with Pages of Promise last summer and picked up Searching for Peace at the end of 2025. Looking forward to reading the rest of this series straight through!

[Courtney Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been a while since I found a book I loved so much that I binged it in a day, but "Second Chance Serenity" was it! Jessica Ashley does it again! Her writing, her style, and her faith speak to me on such a deep level, and I love it so much. I devoured this book, which is the third in the Coastal Hope series, and if you saw my last review, you know I was obsessed with that one as well. A huge theme in this book is forgiveness, and I love how Jessica touched on it in her author's note and beautifully wove it through the story. Michael and Reyna’s second chance, small-town romance is a friends-to-lovers story with a protective cinnamon roll hero who is so dreamy! It's a Christian romantic suspense that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. And it’s all the sizzle without the spice. I am super fortunate to be on Ashley's ARC team, but all thoughts and opinions are my own