Declan Cole is a car thief with a knack for cozying up to strangers for a night’s stay. But when his latest heist lands him in a game of chicken with a train, he’s offered a strange second chance by four mysterious beings. The catch? Well it’s a bit crazy, even for him.
Avani Sinclair is ready to ditch her nightmare of a husband and crash at her friend Gina’s place. But Gina’s unexpected and tragic death leaves Avani alone and struggling to keep her life together—until her charming (and possibly cursed) new neighbor, Declan, steps in.
Is Avani trading one monster ex for another?
Will their second chance be a train wreck or their saving grace.
Alright, I just DEVOURED the ARC of this book and I am immediately pre-ordering a copy as a trophy because this is the most interesting and well-written vampire romance I’ve ever read and I’ve read a LOT (just look at my past reads).
The characters were real. I would bet you a million dollars this was just a true story told in an authentic way. Each character had such a distinct personality and acted accordingly - I never thought “that’s out of character” or “would they really do that?”
The world building (with the paranormal/supernatural system) was stellar. The events that happen, the pacing - all of it felt entirely realistic.
I’m calling it: Mellisa Solis is one of my new favorite authors and I want this book to be widely known. Gonna go brag about it on all of my book groups and mom chats now. Bye!
Fave Quotes: "Self-Care is a healthy way to grieve." "Perseverance can atone for what expertise lacks." " A man with nothing left to lose is a dangerous thing indeed"
Second Chances Suck is a unique and intriguing story that blends elements of crime, redemption, and the supernatural. The concept of a bank heist gone wrong leading to a path of redemption through the supernatural intervention of angels is a fresh take on the classic redemption story.
I was immediately drawn in by the complex and flawed protagonist, Declan Cole, whose journey from criminal to reluctant hero is both compelling and thought-provoking. The idea of a vampire consuming the evil out of souls adds an interesting twist to the familiar vampire lore, and the implications of this act on both the vampire and the souls he consumes create a morally ambiguous and morally gray area that keeps the reader engaged.
The writing is strong and evocative, with vivid descriptions that bring the world to life.
The pacing is well-done, with enough twists and turns to keep the plot engaging without feeling rushed. The supporting characters are well-developed and add depth to the story, each with their own motivations and struggles.
In conclusion, Second Chances Suck is a captivating and original read that will appeal to fans of supernatural fiction, crime thrillers, and redemption stories.
"Second Chances Suck" was an absolute ride, and let me tell you—once you start, there's no way you'll stop until you’ve devoured every last page. I mean, who can resist a spicy vampire romance with the perfect blend of danger, charm, and second chances?
Meet Declan Cole, the bad boy car thief with an unfortunate knack for finding himself in the weirdest situations—his latest heist literally puts him on a collision course with a train. But just as his fate seems sealed, a mysterious offer from four unknown beings gives him a second chance at life. The catch? It’s as crazy as he is, and that’s saying something!
Enter Avani Sinclair, who’s ready to leave her horrible husband in the dust and crash with her friend. But fate—or tragedy—has other plans. When her friend unexpectedly dies, Avani’s life spirals... until she crosses paths with Declan, her sexy (and maybe cursed?) neighbor.
The chemistry between these two? Off. The. Charts. 🔥 Declan's that dark and brooding hero with a past, and Avani is fierce but vulnerable, trying to find her footing. Is she jumping from one bad situation straight into the arms of a monster? Well, let’s just say that tension between them practically jumps off the page.
The best part? This story is so much more than your average vampire romance. It’s packed with humor, suspense, and just the right amount of spice. Declan’s got this raw magnetism that makes you want to keep flipping pages, and the vampire elements are handled in a way that keeps things fresh and exciting.
And let’s talk about the pacing! The plot is a thrilling rollercoaster of emotions, twists, and sizzling moments. The banter between Declan and Avani is witty and sharp, but when things heat up… well, let’s just say you won’t need a fan, but you might want one.
If you’re in the mood for a steamy, heart-pounding romance with a deliciously dark twist, "Second Chances Suck" is your ticket. Melissa Solis has nailed the perfect balance of smut, suspense, and swoon-worthy moments that’ll have you begging for more.
Is it their saving grace or their ultimate downfall? You’ll just have to dive in and see. 😉
It took me a minute to get into it, but when I finally did I couldn’t put it down until I finished. Thanks Melissa for allowing me to enjoy your book in advance!! Wishing you the best of luck!!
This has been the cutest most romantic vampire love story!! The romance was top notch and so was the spice level. Topped with the most romantic & endearing moments. Loved the current music & social references. Nothing I love more than found family!! If you’re a romantic, you’ll definitely love Second Chances. Out now!!
Thank you Melissa Solis for the opportunity to read your novel. I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
It was a solid story. She has a good foundation and character development. The story started off stronge and intense. The spice factor is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. However, overall I feel that subjectively it was not for me. I had a hard time with the paranormal aspect of the story. I give it 3.5 stars but rounded up to 4.
This book is so unique in the best possible way. While it is a vampire romance, it is not your typical storyline. Melissa Solis has changed the game. The world building and the four beings were so interesting. It really is unlike any other book I’ve ever read.
Declan’s second chance was special especially because we got to learn about his hardships and backstory. Avani is a fighter through and through. Kali is someone you can’t help but love. She was incredibly strong.
Jack can kiss a rusty spork. He is VILE. Truly the worst.
I highlyyy recommend adding this book to your TBR.
I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced reader copy from this author. My thoughts and opinions are honest and voluntary.
- the story starts off slow but it's gradually gets better if you keep reading - declan had a terrible car accident that his soul has deattach itself from his body - he is giving a second chance to do something better than what he is used to doin in his life - this sentence is really good " a soul is stitched together with pieces gathered and collected until it becomes whole. Think of adding shapes to an embroidery until you see the perfect design. A soul can contain a few different things: a relative who passed on before you were born, a wandering soul drawn to your personality, perhaps deigning something in you that they once saw in themselves. A soul can also harness the energy of the elements. Perhaps it’s why you love the ocean.” I tried to picture an embroidery hoop like my grandmother used to work on. I imagined mine full of stitched waves and sunbeams. Or this "“Sometimes a soul is born with too many blank spots left open, and darkness seeps in and fills those holes, and the result is often a soul so filled with malice and cruelty that they do nothing but hurt others.” " - Emmagen started talking about Declans soul how it comprised of your great-grandfather and your great-grandmother. Delcans great-grandfather was a sea captain for most of his life and he has bits of his sister who was never born. Aswell as new bits of energy that shape who Delcan is and tends to stick up for the weak and kind to those who he trust. -Also talk bout how Delcan love chocolate and cats?” - Emmagen, Mud, Catarina and Malachi can see a whole lot of good in Declan but there is a hint of darkness, but the light can easily overpower it when it is needed - but Emmagen, Mud, Catarina and Malachi are angels that helps people to find new destiny or gives them a second chance to do something better - this sentence made me laugh "Chance made us coworkers, Bitching about everyone made us friends. Infused with a backhanded compliment." -🌶🌶🌶 - I am enjoying this book - it was soo addictive but soo good . I love it !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
In Second Chance Suck, Melissa Solis masterfully weaves a tale of love, heartbreak, and the unexpected twists of fate that bring two people back together. The story centers around Declan, who has had some problems in life and finds himself forced to make a life altering decision….he is offered a second chance at life by some mysterious beings. Avani wants to get rid of her abusive husband and just get to her best friend Gina’s home. But Gina has unexpectedly died, and this trauma causes Avani’s life to fall apart. That is, until, she meets her new neighbor, Declan. This book surprised me. I wasn’t sure I’d be into this vampire romance at first - it is a little unique. But I really loved the characters’ journey together. I also loved how witty the writing is - I found myself giggling here and there. The pacing of the story is spot-on; the author knows when to linger on emotional moments and when to push the narrative forward. The settings are vividly described, and the characters are so lovable - especially Parker! He is definitely one of my favs! There are some spicy moments - I would give it a 4/5 on the spice rating. There are several scenes that are very descriptive and there is some language as well. The scenes are well written and totally sucked me in - pun intended! Overall, Second Chance Suck is a heartfelt exploration of love’s resilience and the possibility of new beginnings. Melissa Solis has crafted a story that is sure to resonate with anyone who believes in the power of second chances. I highly recommend reading this book!
I’ll be honest—I almost DNF’d this one halfway through, but I pushed through and DID finish it. What saved this book for me was definitely the spice and romance aspect, which kept me intrigued enough to see it through to the end.
This is from a very small indie author I met at a local book event, so I really wanted to give it some grace. The concept was very unique—almost giving me Ghost Rider vibes (mild spoiler ⚠️)—where the main character “sucks the evil out of the soul,” but with a vampire twist. That originality was a highlight, and I could see the spark of something special in it.
Where it fell flat for me was in the execution. There were several plot holes and unresolved threads, and by the end I was really expecting everything to tie together and explain some of the lingering character dynamics. Instead, I was left with more questions than answers.
And that’s what made this so frustrating: the potential was there. The bones of the story had everything I wanted to see in a fresh take on vampire romance, but the follow-through just didn’t quite deliver.
If you’re someone who loves supporting very small indie authors and wants to try something different in the vampire romance niche, this could be worth checking out. For me, the romance and spice carried it, but the story itself missed the mark.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This book was everything! It’s unique, emotional, and packed with angst, heartbreak, compassion, hope, and love. A vampire romance like nothing I’ve ever read before.
Melissa Solis masterfully shows us that love is soulful and transcends everything. Finding that one special person is like finding your soul and your home.
Declan has had a rough life—an alcoholic mother, witnessing her murder, foster care, homelessness, jail time, and a cycle of self-loathing as he used women to survive. But after a job gone wrong lands him in a coma, he’s given a life-changing proposition.
Avani, ready to leave her husband, is instead confronted by a traumatic tragedy and shocking secrets about her husband. Amidst her turmoil, her new neighbor Declan steps in as a caring and supportive presence. Their undeniable attraction grows, but can their relationship survive the weight of all the dark secrets between them?
The spice in this book was fire! It added a much-needed reprieve from all the drama and heavy emotions, creating the perfect balance.
This book kept me on my toes with its unique take on vampire and its rollercoaster of emotions. It’s not your typical vampire story, and that’s what makes it so special. Highly recommend! Just be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
Melissa Solis is a new author read for me, and I am glad I got a chance to read this Second Chances Suck. However, Declan's second chance was just what he needed.
I love the character development of Declan and how we got to learn his backstory and why he was homeless. It made it that much more special when we see the outcome of his second chance. I won't go into more details there to avoid spoilers. Bonus points with the vampire aspect 😉
With Avani's life, I enjoy books that bring in a serial killer aspect and the wife not knowing because it amazes me. But Jack went through great lengths to make sure she didn't know. He was pure evil, even to the very end. Avani deserved so much more than him.
Kalissa was my favorite character, though! She persevered through the worst possible situation and still had her witty, smart attitude.
The four beings - I hope we get backstories of them! They are so intriguing.
Overall, I will be reading more by this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Cute love story with an interesting twist on your classic vampire. This book was easy to read and brought tears to my eyes several times. The characters are well built with unique personalities. Really enjoyed the story, my only complaint is that I felt like the story lacked conflict. Every issue is solved too conveniently and lacks struggle IMO. But otherwise it’s a sweet story that’s enjoyable to read.
I absolutely loved the story of Declan and Avani! From the rough things in his life that brought him to his second chance, to him meeting her, to the moments that followed their meeting. I found it hard to put down! Melissa Solis did a phenomenal job building these characters worlds (and the ethereal beings!) An excellent unique vampire romance with the right amount of spice!
This book took me a few chapters to really get into it but once It sunk my teeth into it I was a goner. I’m not big into vampires but this was not the traditional vampire story at all. It has mystery, adventure, suspense, romance and just the right about of spice. Get yourself a copy today and fall in love with Declan!
Pardon the pun but this book sucked me in. I couldn't put it down till I finished it. It takes me a bit to get into vampire books because they can be really cheesy of not done right.......this one was done right.
My only complaint was everything felt too smooth and made it not feel as believable. Everything else was chefs kiss! The world building was phenomenal. I sprinted through this one and was overall happy with this read. Will edit my review to go more in depth later.
I loved this book!! I couldn’t wait to get home from work so I could start reading again. I was really impressed with the storyline and characters. I look forward to reading more from Melissa Solis!
Second Chances Suck is a refreshing take on the vampire romance genre. Instead of the brooding, archetypal vampire, we are introduced to Declan who is unique—charming, relatable, and feeds on just the evil.
The story follows Avani, our FMC whose life takes an exhilarating turn when she finds herself in a surprising twist in her marriage and crosses paths with Declan, a vampire. Their chemistry leads to a sweet and STEAMY romance.
The story offers a unique take on vampire lore that feels fresh and imaginative. Melissa Solis mixes elements of fantasy with real-world issues, exploring themes of identity, acceptance, and all kinds of evil that we are unaware of.
Second Chances Suck is not just a love story, it's an exploration of what it means to connect with someone who is entirely different from you. The blend of sweet and spicy encounters creates a perfect balance that will satisfy both romance enthusiasts and those looking for something a little darker.
It is truly a beautifully written and emotionally charged novel that breathes new life into the vampire romance genre. With its well-developed characters, steamy romance, and a very unique plot, it’s a must-read for anyone seeking a story that is as sweet as it is spicy. Highly recommended!
This isn’t my typical genre. I tend to stay away from paranormal subject matter but with spooky season approaching I figured “why not”.
This is a fresh take on the typical vampire story line. It had a unique twist that kept me entertained thru the entire book. The paranormal straddles reality and this author is able to bring it together in a believable way. There’s love, heartbreak, good vs evil and spice!
Overall, this book was well written and very enjoyable.
This was an outstanding read with a unique and different storyline. Yes it’s a vampire romance, but Declan isn’t your typical vampire…his tastes run very specific. He’s had his share of trauma and bad choices, but he is a genuinely good person who is trying to make the most of a second chance. Avani is a straight up survivor and fighter, trying to navigate a world of loss and pain. This story was full of emotion, and there were moments reading it that really tugged at my heart. There was also a lot of lighthearted, playful banter. This book really pulled me in from the beginning, and the unique plot with all the twists and turns, kept me hooked till the end. I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR!!
I couldn’t put this book down it was so captivating. Every hopeless romantic should read Declan and Avani’s story. Declan checks all the marks of a perfect book boyfriend and the spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ man oh man. The author uses great imagery bring fantasy into the real world. And who doesn’t love a story that follows the lines of love can endure all things. Even if they don’t work the way you originally planned.
Declan and Avani's story should be read by every hopeless romantic! Their story inspires hope to find your true home. It also reminds us that you never know how bright your light shines until your thrust into darkness. I really enjoyed reading this fantasy meets reality book. Declan has all the markings of the perfect book boyfriend and will live in my head rent free.
This is not your typical vampire romance. Declan is the perfect book boyfriend. I really liked the FMC Avani. Overall a good story with a unique twist on vampire/human romance.
Not what I was expecting but I enjoyed it very much. It's about time we get an Aussie book boyfriend. Not your typical vampire romance. I loved the FMC was a reader.