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Return to Coal Haven #2
Daisy Whispers
Alder Duke was my high school sweetheart turned husband, then he became a stranger who wanted his freedom. I gave it to him.
Fifteen years later, I'm a single mom who desperately needs a place to live. He’s a powerful CEO who needs a wife in order to get the house he grew up in, thanks to a trust his grandma left behind.
He makes a deal with get married to him—again—and live with him for a year. Once the house is in his name, we can divorce—again—and he’ll rent the place to me.
Just one year. No strings. No feelings. Simple.
But nothing about my ex-husband is simple. Gone is the man who wanted to stay out all night drinking with his buddies. This Alder cooks and cleans and unclogs sinks in gray sweatpants. He gets my stubborn daughter to like him. And with me? He looks at me like I’m the only woman in the world.
I can't fall for his sweet daisy whispers. I know how it ends. This time we planned it. My life was already derailed by him once, and I barely came out intact. He’s had my heart forever, but he only gets one year.
Fifteen years later, I'm a single mom who desperately needs a place to live. He’s a powerful CEO who needs a wife in order to get the house he grew up in, thanks to a trust his grandma left behind.
He makes a deal with get married to him—again—and live with him for a year. Once the house is in his name, we can divorce—again—and he’ll rent the place to me.
Just one year. No strings. No feelings. Simple.
But nothing about my ex-husband is simple. Gone is the man who wanted to stay out all night drinking with his buddies. This Alder cooks and cleans and unclogs sinks in gray sweatpants. He gets my stubborn daughter to like him. And with me? He looks at me like I’m the only woman in the world.
I can't fall for his sweet daisy whispers. I know how it ends. This time we planned it. My life was already derailed by him once, and I barely came out intact. He’s had my heart forever, but he only gets one year.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 6, 2025
About the author
Marie Johnston
103 books1,069 followersMarie Johnston is an award-winning, best-selling paranormal and contemporary romance writer. She grew up in the upper Midwest and planned to go to college for English. Didn't happen. She started college in accounting and was awful! Grabbing her inner science geek by the pocket protector, she changed to microbiology and medical technology where her only writing involved scientific articles and procedures.
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
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May 4, 2025
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Fifteen years have passed since Daisy and Alder’s marriage ended in divorce. In the years since no other relationships have worked, and she is now a single debt-riddled mom who needs to find a place to live with her 4yo daughter, Laila. Alder has grown a lot since the divorce and is no longer the self-destructive man living to have a good time that he once was. In order to inherit the house he grew up in he has to get and stay married for a year and with Daisy in need of a place to live that presents the perfect opportunity for Alder to show Daisy how he has changed and though he tells her this is just a 12 month marriage, he aims to make it permanent and rectify the mistakes that lead to losing her in the first place.
I struggled with this. I didn't like Daisy's character at all... I can understand her reluctance and standoffish-ness to a point but it just went on and on and on and instead of taking Alder and his actions at face value and acknowledging the change in him she kept internally holding their past against him while making no effort herself to be different. She'd strung Jason her daughters dad along in a relationship for 6 years knowing she didn't love him and stayed even though he didn't prioritise her or their daughter etc yet had divorced Alder for not prioritising her a year or so into their marriage. It made zero sense to me, I found her character to be a massive hypocrite, and she kept Alder at arms length for so long that the HEA didn't feel fulfilling or real to me. I was left feeling like this couple won't make it longterm and that isn't how you should come away from a romance story, like Alder would be late home too many times because of work and Daisy would just bail because she wasn't the priority. 🤨 Alders character carried this entire story on his back, he showed change, growth and understanding and I liked that the author didn't make his relationship with Daisy's daughter Laila too easy and that her biological dad was an involved parent, however there needed to be more of a gradual on page buildup of some sort of bond between her and Alder and there wasn't so that was yet another element of disconnect in this book for me.
Having not read any of this authors previous series a lot of side character names were dropped and the impression that as the reader we would know who they are and understand their dynamics to the main characters etc was off putting. I like a shared world within an authors works but it's a very fine line between giving readers who have experience with the authors back catalogue a glimpse at a loved character/couple etc and making a new reader feel out of the loop and isolated from the bigger picture and this fell on the wrong side of the fence for me. Unfortunately, this just didn't work for me across the board, but I'm sure it will for others.
Fifteen years have passed since Daisy and Alder’s marriage ended in divorce. In the years since no other relationships have worked, and she is now a single debt-riddled mom who needs to find a place to live with her 4yo daughter, Laila. Alder has grown a lot since the divorce and is no longer the self-destructive man living to have a good time that he once was. In order to inherit the house he grew up in he has to get and stay married for a year and with Daisy in need of a place to live that presents the perfect opportunity for Alder to show Daisy how he has changed and though he tells her this is just a 12 month marriage, he aims to make it permanent and rectify the mistakes that lead to losing her in the first place.
I struggled with this. I didn't like Daisy's character at all... I can understand her reluctance and standoffish-ness to a point but it just went on and on and on and instead of taking Alder and his actions at face value and acknowledging the change in him she kept internally holding their past against him while making no effort herself to be different. She'd strung Jason her daughters dad along in a relationship for 6 years knowing she didn't love him and stayed even though he didn't prioritise her or their daughter etc yet had divorced Alder for not prioritising her a year or so into their marriage. It made zero sense to me, I found her character to be a massive hypocrite, and she kept Alder at arms length for so long that the HEA didn't feel fulfilling or real to me. I was left feeling like this couple won't make it longterm and that isn't how you should come away from a romance story, like Alder would be late home too many times because of work and Daisy would just bail because she wasn't the priority. 🤨 Alders character carried this entire story on his back, he showed change, growth and understanding and I liked that the author didn't make his relationship with Daisy's daughter Laila too easy and that her biological dad was an involved parent, however there needed to be more of a gradual on page buildup of some sort of bond between her and Alder and there wasn't so that was yet another element of disconnect in this book for me.
Having not read any of this authors previous series a lot of side character names were dropped and the impression that as the reader we would know who they are and understand their dynamics to the main characters etc was off putting. I like a shared world within an authors works but it's a very fine line between giving readers who have experience with the authors back catalogue a glimpse at a loved character/couple etc and making a new reader feel out of the loop and isolated from the bigger picture and this fell on the wrong side of the fence for me. Unfortunately, this just didn't work for me across the board, but I'm sure it will for others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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May 5, 2025Ok, so listen, I love second chance romances throw in some drama/angst with them being in serious relationships with other people, and I'm all LET'S👏GO👏 bring on the drama😅
Wanna know what I don't like in second chance romances? When I feel bad for the significant other, that is not the h or H. I felt so fricken bad for Jason that dude is gonna have lifelong insecurities due to Daisy never loving him and just stringing him along.
So ya unfortunately, Daisys character ruined this story for me. Since I ended up skimming/DNF, I won't put an actual rating.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Wanna know what I don't like in second chance romances? When I feel bad for the significant other, that is not the h or H. I felt so fricken bad for Jason that dude is gonna have lifelong insecurities due to Daisy never loving him and just stringing him along.
So ya unfortunately, Daisys character ruined this story for me. Since I ended up skimming/DNF, I won't put an actual rating.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 28, 2025
ooo this was good!!! i don’t read a lot of second chance books where they were married before but i might have to start!
daisy & alder’s story was so great! it felt real and raw. marie made it so easy to empathize with daisy & alder and what they went through in between finding their way back to each other, but also their feelings on being back together
and the way alder was with laila was so special to me <3 he treated her with respect, was so caring, and didn’t push her boundaries. it was so great to see a child get treated in a way where their feelings mattered
thank you marie for the arc!!
daisy & alder’s story was so great! it felt real and raw. marie made it so easy to empathize with daisy & alder and what they went through in between finding their way back to each other, but also their feelings on being back together
and the way alder was with laila was so special to me <3 he treated her with respect, was so caring, and didn’t push her boundaries. it was so great to see a child get treated in a way where their feelings mattered
thank you marie for the arc!!
May 17, 2025
• Divorce couple
• Marriage of Convenience
• Single mom
• Slow burn
• Remorseful moments
• Second chance
• Snowed in
• He takes care of her
This series has been so sweet from the start! I have loved watching each of these siblings find their HEA! And that couldn't be more true for Alder. This book was so different by comparison to the others. And I'm a sucker for a marriage in crisis or a divorced couple finding their way back to each other. Marie did such a wonderful job bringing these two back together after being apart for 15 years. While they definitely lost time apart, they 100% made up for it. And this time around they had Daisy's adorable little girl, Laila, to join them. I loved the way that Alder was so patient with Laila, allowing her time to get to know him on her terms and at her own pace.
My only complaint would be that we got to see them together longer and they didn't spend quite so much time reliving so many things that happened in the past. This book is definitely a slow burn with spicy moments sprinkled in. I kinda worried by 92% if we were actually going to get an HEA. But Marie 100% pulled through and gave us a wonderful HEA for these three!
I’m already counting down the days until the next book in this series! And fingers crossed we get more glimpses of Alder, Daisy, and adorable Laila.
• Marriage of Convenience
• Single mom
• Slow burn
• Remorseful moments
• Second chance
• Snowed in
• He takes care of her
This series has been so sweet from the start! I have loved watching each of these siblings find their HEA! And that couldn't be more true for Alder. This book was so different by comparison to the others. And I'm a sucker for a marriage in crisis or a divorced couple finding their way back to each other. Marie did such a wonderful job bringing these two back together after being apart for 15 years. While they definitely lost time apart, they 100% made up for it. And this time around they had Daisy's adorable little girl, Laila, to join them. I loved the way that Alder was so patient with Laila, allowing her time to get to know him on her terms and at her own pace.
My only complaint would be that we got to see them together longer and they didn't spend quite so much time reliving so many things that happened in the past. This book is definitely a slow burn with spicy moments sprinkled in. I kinda worried by 92% if we were actually going to get an HEA. But Marie 100% pulled through and gave us a wonderful HEA for these three!
I’m already counting down the days until the next book in this series! And fingers crossed we get more glimpses of Alder, Daisy, and adorable Laila.
May 19, 2025
This was a sweet second chance, fake marriage romance.
Daisy and Alder come back together 15 years later to agree to a marriage of convenience. Daisy will get a place to live with her young daughter and Alder will fulfill the terms of his grandmother’s estate so that he can own his childhood home.
As time goes by the two are drawn back together and cuteness ensues.
Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5
🌶️🌶️/5
Daisy and Alder come back together 15 years later to agree to a marriage of convenience. Daisy will get a place to live with her young daughter and Alder will fulfill the terms of his grandmother’s estate so that he can own his childhood home.
As time goes by the two are drawn back together and cuteness ensues.
Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5
🌶️🌶️/5
April 25, 2025
4.5 stars. Daisy, the female lead, and Alder, the male lead, were married in their youth but Daisy divorced him when his focus seemed to be partying, rather than anything else. Now, 15 years later, Alder is back in town, taking over as CEO of the local refinery, and therefore Daisy’s boss’ boss’ boss’ boss. Daisy also needs somewhere to live, having separated from her daughter’s father and Alder needs a wife to claim the property his grandmother left him. But this is just going to be a marriage of convenience with a set end date…right?
This story is dual POV, well written and edited, and a sweet and steamy, contemporary second chance romance. I really appreciated the accurate depiction of Daisy and Laila (Daisy’s daughter) as females with autism. I empathised with the historical trauma Daisy carried and how it influenced her choices. I enjoyed the way she kept working to provide a safe home for her daughter. I enjoyed Alder’s personality change over time and his willingness to acknowledge and apologise for his previous failings. I also appreciated how Laila’s father was shown as a genuinely nice guy who just wasn’t what Daisy needed. I enjoyed the relationship development between Daisy and Alder but also with Laila’s father who was going to continue being part of their lives - a lovely contrast to other stories where the other parent is absent/difficult. I enjoyed the relationship development between Alder and Laila, and the patience Alder exhibited.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
This story is dual POV, well written and edited, and a sweet and steamy, contemporary second chance romance. I really appreciated the accurate depiction of Daisy and Laila (Daisy’s daughter) as females with autism. I empathised with the historical trauma Daisy carried and how it influenced her choices. I enjoyed the way she kept working to provide a safe home for her daughter. I enjoyed Alder’s personality change over time and his willingness to acknowledge and apologise for his previous failings. I also appreciated how Laila’s father was shown as a genuinely nice guy who just wasn’t what Daisy needed. I enjoyed the relationship development between Daisy and Alder but also with Laila’s father who was going to continue being part of their lives - a lovely contrast to other stories where the other parent is absent/difficult. I enjoyed the relationship development between Alder and Laila, and the patience Alder exhibited.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
May 9, 2025
ARC review📚
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️
Love this author and this interconnected world she has created.
Another great book in the series.
Daisy and Alder are highschool sweethearts, that married at 19. They end up divorced because Alder was an inconsiderate jerk.
15 yrs later he moves back to town and runs into Daisy.
Daisy is a newly single, single mom. She is floundering, trying to build a life for her and her daughter. And without a place to live again.
Lo and behold, Alder needs a wife to collect on his inheritance, his family home.
Why not ask his ex wife to marry him again, get his house and the woman he never stopped loving.
She reluctantly agrees and tries to keep things in the roommate territory.
With lots of unresolved issues to work thru, Daisy is having trust issues. And Alder is willing to wait….forever, for her.
🔥second chance
🔥forced proximity
🔥single mom
🔥small town
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️
Love this author and this interconnected world she has created.
Another great book in the series.
Daisy and Alder are highschool sweethearts, that married at 19. They end up divorced because Alder was an inconsiderate jerk.
15 yrs later he moves back to town and runs into Daisy.
Daisy is a newly single, single mom. She is floundering, trying to build a life for her and her daughter. And without a place to live again.
Lo and behold, Alder needs a wife to collect on his inheritance, his family home.
Why not ask his ex wife to marry him again, get his house and the woman he never stopped loving.
She reluctantly agrees and tries to keep things in the roommate territory.
With lots of unresolved issues to work thru, Daisy is having trust issues. And Alder is willing to wait….forever, for her.
🔥second chance
🔥forced proximity
🔥single mom
🔥small town
May 7, 2025
-Second chance
-Divorced Couple
-Single mom
-Small town
-Marriage of convenience
A second chance to mend what was broken in their youth presents itself when Adler needs a wife for a year and Daisy needs a home.
It was an interesting read to learn about their growth, regrets, walls and more as they navigate their second chance.
I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
-Divorced Couple
-Single mom
-Small town
-Marriage of convenience
A second chance to mend what was broken in their youth presents itself when Adler needs a wife for a year and Daisy needs a home.
It was an interesting read to learn about their growth, regrets, walls and more as they navigate their second chance.
I was given a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 14, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐.75
🌶️🌶️
💖 Single Mom
✨️ Second Chance
💖 Small Town
✨️ Forced Proximity
💖 Marriage Of Convenience
✨️ It's Always Been You Vibes ❤
I am a huge stan for Marie's writing. There hasn't been anything I have read that I didn't love and fall hard for! So when I saw this little beauty pop up I was like Thank you 😊 🙏 its just what I needed.
I am a huge fan of every single one of these tropes for this book. So I knew going in I was going to love it. I wasn't wrong, even in the least bit.
I loved Daisy and Adler's story from the beginning all the way to the end. They may have been married before but it just wasn't the right time for them.
When things weren't so great between Daisy and Adler the first time, I couldn't help but applaud her strength to go her own way. But I can't help but feel even more adoration for her when she had her daughter. She was the strong woman that we always hoped we can be someday. Dealing with the hard things one at a time and looking like a rockstar while doing it!
Adler definitely had some growing up to do, but was determined to make sure that he never made Daisy feel that she wasn't important. I loved that about him. He wanted to make sure she never felt the way he ans other people had made her feel before. He treasured her in a way he never had before. And her daughter only sweetened the deal!
Thank you so much to Marie Johnston for the free copy 🫶🏻. All opinions are my own, honest and voluntary.
🌶️🌶️
💖 Single Mom
✨️ Second Chance
💖 Small Town
✨️ Forced Proximity
💖 Marriage Of Convenience
✨️ It's Always Been You Vibes ❤
I am a huge stan for Marie's writing. There hasn't been anything I have read that I didn't love and fall hard for! So when I saw this little beauty pop up I was like Thank you 😊 🙏 its just what I needed.
I am a huge fan of every single one of these tropes for this book. So I knew going in I was going to love it. I wasn't wrong, even in the least bit.
I loved Daisy and Adler's story from the beginning all the way to the end. They may have been married before but it just wasn't the right time for them.
When things weren't so great between Daisy and Adler the first time, I couldn't help but applaud her strength to go her own way. But I can't help but feel even more adoration for her when she had her daughter. She was the strong woman that we always hoped we can be someday. Dealing with the hard things one at a time and looking like a rockstar while doing it!
Adler definitely had some growing up to do, but was determined to make sure that he never made Daisy feel that she wasn't important. I loved that about him. He wanted to make sure she never felt the way he ans other people had made her feel before. He treasured her in a way he never had before. And her daughter only sweetened the deal!
Thank you so much to Marie Johnston for the free copy 🫶🏻. All opinions are my own, honest and voluntary.
May 7, 2025
I enjoyed learning about Alder. He was a man who made mistakes in the past and rectified his life. He was also a man who knew what he wanted and strived to get it.
I really wanted to like Daisy, but it was hard. She was a walking contradiction. She whined about her parents not being warm people nor involved parents yet she didn't like to be touched, not even by the family that she felt so much affection for. She had a man who loved her, Jason, yet she "threw" him away. She said she could see that Alder changed, but she kept holding is past actions "over his head". She was constantly holding back. It seems like she needed to work on herself before getting back into a relationship. She has some trauma that she needs to work through.
It was good getting a glimpse of the previous sister's lives,Lily and Violet.
This was a second chance story. If you like second chance romances, you may like this book.
I really wanted to like Daisy, but it was hard. She was a walking contradiction. She whined about her parents not being warm people nor involved parents yet she didn't like to be touched, not even by the family that she felt so much affection for. She had a man who loved her, Jason, yet she "threw" him away. She said she could see that Alder changed, but she kept holding is past actions "over his head". She was constantly holding back. It seems like she needed to work on herself before getting back into a relationship. She has some trauma that she needs to work through.
It was good getting a glimpse of the previous sister's lives,Lily and Violet.
This was a second chance story. If you like second chance romances, you may like this book.
May 6, 2025
Alder Duke, the third sibling to fall to his grandma’s meddling and trust.
Alder & Daisy were HS sweethearts, married and divorced young. Fifteen years later Daisy is a single mom and desperately seeking a place to live. A chance encounter with her ex leads to a hasty proposal. He needs to be married for one year to inherit the home his Grandma designated for him. The fact he never stopped loving Daisy and is determined to win her back is a risk and challenge he’s willing to take.
Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes. Alder & Daisy have much to learn about communication. Together they are a slow burn. Steamy and satisfying.
Alder & Daisy were HS sweethearts, married and divorced young. Fifteen years later Daisy is a single mom and desperately seeking a place to live. A chance encounter with her ex leads to a hasty proposal. He needs to be married for one year to inherit the home his Grandma designated for him. The fact he never stopped loving Daisy and is determined to win her back is a risk and challenge he’s willing to take.
Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes. Alder & Daisy have much to learn about communication. Together they are a slow burn. Steamy and satisfying.
May 11, 2025
I mean it was good, but a little bit plain to be honest.
I really liked Alder, he really was a changed man and he really tried everything to make Daisy his again. He really fucked up in the past, but he would have done everything for Daisy this second time and to really has a secon chance with her.
For me the problem was Daisy. I couldn't connect with her.
But the real problem for me was the whole storyline. In my personal opinion, it lacked depth, everything was told superficially and I just think details were missing. Maybe it was the writing style, I don't know, but that's what I was getting while reading it. It seemed like their conversations were too simple and missed the connection.
I really liked Alder, he really was a changed man and he really tried everything to make Daisy his again. He really fucked up in the past, but he would have done everything for Daisy this second time and to really has a secon chance with her.
For me the problem was Daisy. I couldn't connect with her.
But the real problem for me was the whole storyline. In my personal opinion, it lacked depth, everything was told superficially and I just think details were missing. Maybe it was the writing style, I don't know, but that's what I was getting while reading it. It seemed like their conversations were too simple and missed the connection.
May 19, 2025
It’s time for Alder Duke’s HEA! This is Book 2 in the Return to Coal Haven series, where we follow the Duke family and their love stories. In order to take possession of his inheritance from his grandmother (his childhood home and property), Alder Duke must be married for one year. This marriage must be verified and pass the inspection of his aunt and father - his grandmother’s way of insuring that her grandkids would have futures full of love in the various properties around Coal Haven. This arrangement worked for Alder’s sisters Violet (her story is Violet Promises) and Lily (her story is An Endless Memory), and Alder is hoping this will help him rekindle his relationship with Daisy, his high school sweetheart and ex-wife.
Daisy is struggling. Fifteen years ago, she walked away from the love of her life, Alder Duke. In those 15 years, Daisy struggled to excel in her career as a chemist, had a child, and accrued massive debt and a list of exes. She is still grieving the loss of her brother, and has just split from her daughter’s father. She has nowhere to go, not enough money to go there, and then the new CEO (her boss’s boss’s boss’s boss) appears - Alder Duke.
Alder’s plan, now that he’s back in Coal Haven, is to win back his wife. Fifteen years ago he screwed up; he took her for granted and buckled under the pressure of small town expectations and his first taste of freedom. He’s ready to rewrite his reputation - he’s no longer the selfish and irresponsible “Crazy A”. He’s ready to prove that he is, in fact, the man Daisy fell in love with and is prepared to be the best citizen, husband, and stepfather for her daughter.
I’ve never been a fan of the Second Chance Romance. But, dangit, Marie Johnston expertly weaves Daisy and Alder’s love story so that not only am I rooting for the two of them to get back together, but so that I also understood how they both fell apart in their first marriage and how they never stopped loving each other. Daisy is a tough nut to crack, but her family trauma and her struggles with relationships makes her a relatable and lovable character. Alder’s growth from man-child to CEO is also relatable and sweet. At first blush, they seem such an unlikely pair but it’s apparent that they bring out the best in each other. And, I gotta say, Lails is a hilarious little girl and the relationship she has with all 3 of the adults in her life is priceless.
Once again, a lovely HEA in Coal Haven!
I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
Daisy is struggling. Fifteen years ago, she walked away from the love of her life, Alder Duke. In those 15 years, Daisy struggled to excel in her career as a chemist, had a child, and accrued massive debt and a list of exes. She is still grieving the loss of her brother, and has just split from her daughter’s father. She has nowhere to go, not enough money to go there, and then the new CEO (her boss’s boss’s boss’s boss) appears - Alder Duke.
Alder’s plan, now that he’s back in Coal Haven, is to win back his wife. Fifteen years ago he screwed up; he took her for granted and buckled under the pressure of small town expectations and his first taste of freedom. He’s ready to rewrite his reputation - he’s no longer the selfish and irresponsible “Crazy A”. He’s ready to prove that he is, in fact, the man Daisy fell in love with and is prepared to be the best citizen, husband, and stepfather for her daughter.
I’ve never been a fan of the Second Chance Romance. But, dangit, Marie Johnston expertly weaves Daisy and Alder’s love story so that not only am I rooting for the two of them to get back together, but so that I also understood how they both fell apart in their first marriage and how they never stopped loving each other. Daisy is a tough nut to crack, but her family trauma and her struggles with relationships makes her a relatable and lovable character. Alder’s growth from man-child to CEO is also relatable and sweet. At first blush, they seem such an unlikely pair but it’s apparent that they bring out the best in each other. And, I gotta say, Lails is a hilarious little girl and the relationship she has with all 3 of the adults in her life is priceless.
Once again, a lovely HEA in Coal Haven!
I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
May 4, 2025
Alder and Daisy were high school lovers who married and divorced while still young. Fifteen years later, Daisy is a single mother urgently searching for a new home. An unexpected meeting with her former partner results in a quick proposal. He must be married for one year to receive the house his Grandma designated for him. His unwavering love for Daisy and his resolve to reclaim her is a risk and challenge he is prepared to face.
Daisy and Alder tied the knot right after high school, far too young and lacking maturity (especially him), and as a result, they fell apart.
Fifteen years later, Daisy has become a mother, remaining a complex individual who is socially awkward and has issues with touch.
She unexpectedly discovers that she urgently requires housing, and a chance encounter with Alder offers a remedy.
Due to the conditions in his grandmother's will, Alder has to be married and remain married for a year to receive the house she left him.
A pragmatic union takes place, but Alder has promised himself that this is his opportunity with Daisy, and he will do all he can to earn her trust and ensure it succeeds genuinely.
Alder never moved on from Daisy and harbors numerous regrets regarding his actions during their early marriage.
Alder, now older, wiser, and more mature, truly understands Daisy and displays endless patience as she adapts to her new situation.
Since her divorce, Daisy has felt somewhat lost and cannot deny that her feelings for Alder remain quite profound. Nonetheless, she has constructed her barriers so tall to prevent pain that Alder faces a tough challenge in earning her trust and forgiveness.
Daisy's daughter Laila is just as irritable as her mother, and Alder once more shows his comprehension while patiently trying to earn her trust and approval too.
It is a breath of fresh air that Daisy's ex is depicted as a caring father and a nice individual rather than the typical villain we frequently encounter. At times, relationships simply fail without any blame on either partner.
I valued that Daisy and Alder both gained insights from their unsuccessful marriage. Daisy questioned if she had quit on her marriage too early, as she's spent too long in unsatisfactory relationships with each of her boyfriends since parting ways with Alder. Alder acknowledged that his behavior ruined his biggest desire, so he has strived diligently to transform himself into what Daisy needed and desired. I appreciated every one of their perspectives on their efforts to improve this time and the challenges they faced.
Daisy and Alder tied the knot right after high school, far too young and lacking maturity (especially him), and as a result, they fell apart.
Fifteen years later, Daisy has become a mother, remaining a complex individual who is socially awkward and has issues with touch.
She unexpectedly discovers that she urgently requires housing, and a chance encounter with Alder offers a remedy.
Due to the conditions in his grandmother's will, Alder has to be married and remain married for a year to receive the house she left him.
A pragmatic union takes place, but Alder has promised himself that this is his opportunity with Daisy, and he will do all he can to earn her trust and ensure it succeeds genuinely.
Alder never moved on from Daisy and harbors numerous regrets regarding his actions during their early marriage.
Alder, now older, wiser, and more mature, truly understands Daisy and displays endless patience as she adapts to her new situation.
Since her divorce, Daisy has felt somewhat lost and cannot deny that her feelings for Alder remain quite profound. Nonetheless, she has constructed her barriers so tall to prevent pain that Alder faces a tough challenge in earning her trust and forgiveness.
Daisy's daughter Laila is just as irritable as her mother, and Alder once more shows his comprehension while patiently trying to earn her trust and approval too.
It is a breath of fresh air that Daisy's ex is depicted as a caring father and a nice individual rather than the typical villain we frequently encounter. At times, relationships simply fail without any blame on either partner.
I valued that Daisy and Alder both gained insights from their unsuccessful marriage. Daisy questioned if she had quit on her marriage too early, as she's spent too long in unsatisfactory relationships with each of her boyfriends since parting ways with Alder. Alder acknowledged that his behavior ruined his biggest desire, so he has strived diligently to transform himself into what Daisy needed and desired. I appreciated every one of their perspectives on their efforts to improve this time and the challenges they faced.
May 7, 2025
Overall: 5
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- If you’re looking at books, I assume you can read - read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
Book:
POV/narrative: 1st person alternating
SA/ cliffhanger: standalone but second in a series; characters from other series/books pop up or are mentioned
Ingredients:
writing quality: 5
ease of reading: 5
plot: 4
steam: 4
Notes / opinion:
This is the type of second chance I enjoy; main characters who were married instead of just dating. There’s a difference there to overcome. Alder was a great reflection of learning from his mistakes, knowing what he wanted and trying again. Daisy was a bit more difficult to understand but in the end, I liked her. I felt she was real with all her contradictions and challenges.
I definitely love reading these small towns; they remind me of where I grew up (couldn’t wait to get away from) and now have fond memories of (and sometimes a longing to live there again). I love to visit them but it’s not the same since I’m seeing it through the eyes of adulthood and experience. These books, on the other hand, show how small town life is hard and charming at the same time. I love that the characters acknowledge the hardships of them as well and the greatness. The towns are as much of a character as the characters themselves and I look forward to each one taking me to ‘that place’ of contentment.
I rate this book as “Adult” to include:– (Note: rating description borrowed from another site)
• May contain profanity (or words considered crude)
• May contain passionate and extended kissing
• May contain one to three onscreen semi-detailed or detailed love scenes
• May also contain non page but descriptive intimacy scenes
• May contain graphic descriptions of nudity
• May contain drug, alcohol or tobacco use
First my usual points:
- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- If you’re looking at books, I assume you can read - read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.
Book:
POV/narrative: 1st person alternating
SA/ cliffhanger: standalone but second in a series; characters from other series/books pop up or are mentioned
Ingredients:
writing quality: 5
ease of reading: 5
plot: 4
steam: 4
Notes / opinion:
This is the type of second chance I enjoy; main characters who were married instead of just dating. There’s a difference there to overcome. Alder was a great reflection of learning from his mistakes, knowing what he wanted and trying again. Daisy was a bit more difficult to understand but in the end, I liked her. I felt she was real with all her contradictions and challenges.
I definitely love reading these small towns; they remind me of where I grew up (couldn’t wait to get away from) and now have fond memories of (and sometimes a longing to live there again). I love to visit them but it’s not the same since I’m seeing it through the eyes of adulthood and experience. These books, on the other hand, show how small town life is hard and charming at the same time. I love that the characters acknowledge the hardships of them as well and the greatness. The towns are as much of a character as the characters themselves and I look forward to each one taking me to ‘that place’ of contentment.
I rate this book as “Adult” to include:– (Note: rating description borrowed from another site)
• May contain profanity (or words considered crude)
• May contain passionate and extended kissing
• May contain one to three onscreen semi-detailed or detailed love scenes
• May also contain non page but descriptive intimacy scenes
• May contain graphic descriptions of nudity
• May contain drug, alcohol or tobacco use
May 15, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️ 🌶️
Book 2 of the series and another sibling settling thanks to Grandma's Will.
This one was Alder's story. The oldest sibling of the family. This is a Second Chance, Small Town, Single Parent and Neurodivergent FMC Tropes.
Alder & Daisy were childhood sweetheart and got married at 19. He understood her more than her own family. She had specific ways of being and doing things. He was still growing and wanted to enjoy being young and living in his own place. She was always the serious and sensible one. But she had to leave him and let him go. She didn't give him another chance or time until 15 yrs later.
I don't like it when couples miss more than 8-10 yrs. Such a waste of life haha. Poor Alder, he lost the love of his life all for nothing really. He then sorted himself out and I was super impressed.
He needs a wife, she needs a home she can afford for her and her little girl. This was Alder's chance to show her how hard he had worked on making himself a better person. I loved Alder, he was just amazing in how he is patient and how he has changed so much.
Laila is Daisy's 4 Yr old and I understand she is struggling with her parents separation and now a new man in there house. But I didn’t like how she was very rude to Alder at times and she wasn't told how that kind of behaviour wasn't acceptable. I know she got better as story went on but that bit I didn't like.
I understood Daisy's anxiety over it all but she could see how hard he is working to prove to her he has changed and still loves her. Yet she still didn't want to settle forever. I tried to understand her way of thinking but came short. Adler & his family are amazing with her and Laila.
Will Daisy finally see how much he loves her and then is it? Or will she leave?
Was great to see the other characters from previous series. This is an emotional story full of heartbreak, anxiety, drama, love and Family.
3 more siblings left and I can't wait. Great series so far.
🌶️ 🌶️
Book 2 of the series and another sibling settling thanks to Grandma's Will.
This one was Alder's story. The oldest sibling of the family. This is a Second Chance, Small Town, Single Parent and Neurodivergent FMC Tropes.
Alder & Daisy were childhood sweetheart and got married at 19. He understood her more than her own family. She had specific ways of being and doing things. He was still growing and wanted to enjoy being young and living in his own place. She was always the serious and sensible one. But she had to leave him and let him go. She didn't give him another chance or time until 15 yrs later.
I don't like it when couples miss more than 8-10 yrs. Such a waste of life haha. Poor Alder, he lost the love of his life all for nothing really. He then sorted himself out and I was super impressed.
He needs a wife, she needs a home she can afford for her and her little girl. This was Alder's chance to show her how hard he had worked on making himself a better person. I loved Alder, he was just amazing in how he is patient and how he has changed so much.
Laila is Daisy's 4 Yr old and I understand she is struggling with her parents separation and now a new man in there house. But I didn’t like how she was very rude to Alder at times and she wasn't told how that kind of behaviour wasn't acceptable. I know she got better as story went on but that bit I didn't like.
I understood Daisy's anxiety over it all but she could see how hard he is working to prove to her he has changed and still loves her. Yet she still didn't want to settle forever. I tried to understand her way of thinking but came short. Adler & his family are amazing with her and Laila.
Will Daisy finally see how much he loves her and then is it? Or will she leave?
Was great to see the other characters from previous series. This is an emotional story full of heartbreak, anxiety, drama, love and Family.
3 more siblings left and I can't wait. Great series so far.
May 2, 2025
Daisy and Alder married fresh out of high school, way too young and immature (he more than she) and subsequently they crashed and burned.
Fifteen years later and Daisy is now a mother, still a complicated person, socially awkward and with touch issues.
She suddenly finds herself in dire need of accommodation and a chance meeting with Alder provides a solution.
Because of the stipulations in his grandmother's will, Alder must be married and stay married for a year to inherit the home she bequeathed.
A marriage of convenience ensues but Alder has vowed to himself that this is his second chance with Daisy and he will be doing everything in his power to gain Daisy's trust and to make it work for real.
Alder never got over Daisy and has so many regrets about his behavior when they were first married.
Older, wiser and more mature Alder just 'gets' Daisy and has seemingly infinite patience as she navigates her new reality.
Since her divorce Daisy has been somewhat adrift and cannot deny that she still has very deep feelings for Alder. However she has built her walls so high to avoid being hurt that Alder has an uphill battle to gain her trust and forgiveness.
Daisy's daughter Laila is as prickly as her mother and Alder again displays his understanding and calmly works to gain her trust and acceptance as well.
It is refreshing that Daisy's ex is shown to be a good father and a kind person and not the villain as we so often see portrayed. Sometimes relationships just don't work out through no fault of either partner.
Daisy Whispers is a lovely second chance romance that sensitively explores human growth and maturity, the healing of old hurts, forgiveness and trust.
I'm very much looking forward to the next book in this series and highly recommend them all.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Fifteen years later and Daisy is now a mother, still a complicated person, socially awkward and with touch issues.
She suddenly finds herself in dire need of accommodation and a chance meeting with Alder provides a solution.
Because of the stipulations in his grandmother's will, Alder must be married and stay married for a year to inherit the home she bequeathed.
A marriage of convenience ensues but Alder has vowed to himself that this is his second chance with Daisy and he will be doing everything in his power to gain Daisy's trust and to make it work for real.
Alder never got over Daisy and has so many regrets about his behavior when they were first married.
Older, wiser and more mature Alder just 'gets' Daisy and has seemingly infinite patience as she navigates her new reality.
Since her divorce Daisy has been somewhat adrift and cannot deny that she still has very deep feelings for Alder. However she has built her walls so high to avoid being hurt that Alder has an uphill battle to gain her trust and forgiveness.
Daisy's daughter Laila is as prickly as her mother and Alder again displays his understanding and calmly works to gain her trust and acceptance as well.
It is refreshing that Daisy's ex is shown to be a good father and a kind person and not the villain as we so often see portrayed. Sometimes relationships just don't work out through no fault of either partner.
Daisy Whispers is a lovely second chance romance that sensitively explores human growth and maturity, the healing of old hurts, forgiveness and trust.
I'm very much looking forward to the next book in this series and highly recommend them all.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest and voluntary review.
May 7, 2025
An angsty, touching second chance romance with some truly spectacular chemistry, the fears, self-doubts, and insecurity of questioning every choice you’ve made and wondering when the last time was you made the right one, and one of the most sincere MMC’s you’ll ever come across in Alder! It’s marriage of convenience, one insanely determined CEO, a single mom who’s world is her daughter, millions of past regrets, and one shot for them to get it right, and it’ll have you in your feels, screaming in frustration, and hurting for them both in a read where each and every page feels marked by the past, filled with hope for the future, and so, so complicated in the now.
This whole read just feels like a delicate balance, walking on eggshells, and wishing to god you could just let go and jump. Alder literally changed every little thing that he ever remembered Daisy complaining about all with the hope that they’d be together again someday, that he’d get his second chance to be the man he knew she deserved. And poor Daisy, she’d sunk her all into their first marriage, lost belief in herself between then and now, and her struggles with trusting this time could be different, with believing she could make the right choice for her and Laila, totally grabs your heart and it’s really easy to put yourself in her shoes at the same time you’re ready to scream just give in and love this man. I adore how this read played out, how patient Alder was, how much space he gave Laila to come to him and understood the whole situation was a lot for her, and how getting to a second happily ever after wasn’t just changes in Alder’s behavior, it was understanding how the first time around colored everything in the fifteen years in between and where that put them, particularly Daisy, now. Just a great heartfelt read that is pure satisfaction in the end.
This whole read just feels like a delicate balance, walking on eggshells, and wishing to god you could just let go and jump. Alder literally changed every little thing that he ever remembered Daisy complaining about all with the hope that they’d be together again someday, that he’d get his second chance to be the man he knew she deserved. And poor Daisy, she’d sunk her all into their first marriage, lost belief in herself between then and now, and her struggles with trusting this time could be different, with believing she could make the right choice for her and Laila, totally grabs your heart and it’s really easy to put yourself in her shoes at the same time you’re ready to scream just give in and love this man. I adore how this read played out, how patient Alder was, how much space he gave Laila to come to him and understood the whole situation was a lot for her, and how getting to a second happily ever after wasn’t just changes in Alder’s behavior, it was understanding how the first time around colored everything in the fifteen years in between and where that put them, particularly Daisy, now. Just a great heartfelt read that is pure satisfaction in the end.
May 4, 2025
4.75 stars
I've read quite a few of Johnston's other books in various series (I can't remember the series names as they're undergoing a renaming right now), and I've enjoyed reading every single one that I've picked up.
Daisy and Alder used to be married, but divorced after Alder wasn't taking marriage seriously. Fast forward to the present - Daisy has just gotten out of 6-year relationship with Laila's, her daughter, father and needs a new place to rent. Enter her ex-husband, Alder Duke. Alder is back in town to take over the CEO position at the refinery where Daisy works.
In order for Alder to get his parents' home under his grandma's trust, he needs to be married for at least one year. Out of practicality, Daisy accepts Alder's agreement (it also helps she never changed her name from Daisy Duke all those year ago!) and she and Laila move in with her ex-husband while navigating co-parenting with Laila's father.
Alder is dead set on winning Daisy back and that includes winning Laila over somehow, too! Neither Daisy nor Laila is going to make it easy for Alder. I understand Daisy's reticence as she just got out of the relationship with her daughter's father (and he's very unaccepting of the 'it's not you, it's me' rejection) and really isn't looking to rush into anything. But Alder seems to have grown up, hasn't he?
I loved Laila! It's rough on kids when their parents split up. I can only imagine then having to move in with a complete stranger.
My only drawback is that a fair number of Johnston's book have the same premise - a marriage of convenience in order to get money from a trust or a piece of land.
Overall, this is another great read from Johnston!
I've read quite a few of Johnston's other books in various series (I can't remember the series names as they're undergoing a renaming right now), and I've enjoyed reading every single one that I've picked up.
Daisy and Alder used to be married, but divorced after Alder wasn't taking marriage seriously. Fast forward to the present - Daisy has just gotten out of 6-year relationship with Laila's, her daughter, father and needs a new place to rent. Enter her ex-husband, Alder Duke. Alder is back in town to take over the CEO position at the refinery where Daisy works.
In order for Alder to get his parents' home under his grandma's trust, he needs to be married for at least one year. Out of practicality, Daisy accepts Alder's agreement (it also helps she never changed her name from Daisy Duke all those year ago!) and she and Laila move in with her ex-husband while navigating co-parenting with Laila's father.
Alder is dead set on winning Daisy back and that includes winning Laila over somehow, too! Neither Daisy nor Laila is going to make it easy for Alder. I understand Daisy's reticence as she just got out of the relationship with her daughter's father (and he's very unaccepting of the 'it's not you, it's me' rejection) and really isn't looking to rush into anything. But Alder seems to have grown up, hasn't he?
I loved Laila! It's rough on kids when their parents split up. I can only imagine then having to move in with a complete stranger.
My only drawback is that a fair number of Johnston's book have the same premise - a marriage of convenience in order to get money from a trust or a piece of land.
Overall, this is another great read from Johnston!
May 4, 2025
Alder Duke, who knew you were going to be the best book boyfriend to ever live in Coal Haven, ND? After his divorce left him gutted he wallowed a bit, but then decided he was going to be a better man. Alder worked his tail off and earned his position as CEO at King Oil. Back in his hometown and in the midst of his grandmother meddling trust…but will this work out for Alder like it did his sisters?
Daisy Duke is a single mom to daughter, Lilah and in desperate need of a place for her and daughter to live. Life hasn’t been easy for Daisy but she is doing the best she can and working hard to live the life that she wants. I love that Daisy isn’t a warm and fuzzy kind of girl, while she loves hard and big she holds so much close to her. I also love that she is living the life she wants, not the life that would be easiest for her and her daughter, in turn making her life just a little harder but she was not going to be unhappy. Just then her ex-husband of 15 years shows up in town proposing a way to help them both out.
I am not usually a huge fan of second chance romances but Marie Johnston can write the heck out of a second chance and this one was top tier. The book was filled with tons of emotion. I found myself so connected to the pair and was rooting for them from page 1. I think what stuck out to me most is that they both worked hard for their happiness- Alder worked hard to show Daisy how much he loved her and how much he changed, and Daisy worked hard to allow herself to be loved. Another amazing Coal Haven book, and I cannot wait for what is next…I know it is going to be amazing!
Daisy Duke is a single mom to daughter, Lilah and in desperate need of a place for her and daughter to live. Life hasn’t been easy for Daisy but she is doing the best she can and working hard to live the life that she wants. I love that Daisy isn’t a warm and fuzzy kind of girl, while she loves hard and big she holds so much close to her. I also love that she is living the life she wants, not the life that would be easiest for her and her daughter, in turn making her life just a little harder but she was not going to be unhappy. Just then her ex-husband of 15 years shows up in town proposing a way to help them both out.
I am not usually a huge fan of second chance romances but Marie Johnston can write the heck out of a second chance and this one was top tier. The book was filled with tons of emotion. I found myself so connected to the pair and was rooting for them from page 1. I think what stuck out to me most is that they both worked hard for their happiness- Alder worked hard to show Daisy how much he loved her and how much he changed, and Daisy worked hard to allow herself to be loved. Another amazing Coal Haven book, and I cannot wait for what is next…I know it is going to be amazing!
May 5, 2025
Alder and Daisy married young and divorced just as quickly, but fate brings them together again fifteen years later. Daisy, now a single mother, urgently needs a place to live, and Alder has an unexpected solution—his grandmother's inheritance comes with one condition: he must be married for a year. Their practical arrangement carries deeper emotions, as Alder has never stopped loving Daisy and is determined to prove he's the man she needs. Patient and persistent, he works to rebuild trust, not just with Daisy but with her daughter Laila, too. Their journey is one of second chances, understanding, and growth, where love isn't just about the past—it's about the future they could create together.
Daisy was a very guarded person, and it made it difficult to love her through some of the story. Alder was very attune to Daisy's needs but also wasn't. But that being said I enjoyed that each character had their own personality and voice. The plot was mostly character based, and I might add that I did miss aunt Linda and her frankness towards being the determining factor of if the relationship would be accepted as valid in the eyes of the trust. I loved how Alder and his family welcomed Jason (Laila's dad) in with open arms. I think that was really special.
Overall, I did enjoy this read. I finished it in one day. You do not have to read the other books in relation to this one to understand the concept. But as always, I reccommend it.
If you like the following, you will enjoy this book:
💕Family Saga
💕Small Town
💕Single Mom
💕Second Chance
💕Marriage of Convenience
💕Forced Proximity
💕It's Always Been You Vibes
Daisy was a very guarded person, and it made it difficult to love her through some of the story. Alder was very attune to Daisy's needs but also wasn't. But that being said I enjoyed that each character had their own personality and voice. The plot was mostly character based, and I might add that I did miss aunt Linda and her frankness towards being the determining factor of if the relationship would be accepted as valid in the eyes of the trust. I loved how Alder and his family welcomed Jason (Laila's dad) in with open arms. I think that was really special.
Overall, I did enjoy this read. I finished it in one day. You do not have to read the other books in relation to this one to understand the concept. But as always, I reccommend it.
If you like the following, you will enjoy this book:
💕Family Saga
💕Small Town
💕Single Mom
💕Second Chance
💕Marriage of Convenience
💕Forced Proximity
💕It's Always Been You Vibes
May 8, 2025
I absolutely loved this arc, and I can’t wait for everyone to read it!
Daisy Whispers is a small town, marriage of convenience, single mom, forced proximity, second chance romance between Daisy and Alder.
I really felt for Daisy. She’s doing the best she can for herself and her daughter, Layla, and she’s incredibly hard on herself and constantly preparing for people to leave her once it all becomes too much. But she also did everything she could to protect the two of them from heartache, and who could blame her?? And what I really loved was seeing her learn to open up and trust again as she falls in love with Alder for a second time. Her story is a beautiful reminder that we all deserve love and happiness, and the right people will stay in our lives because they want to. We just need to learn to trust again.
Alder is so easy to fall for, it’s no wonder Daisy fell for him twice. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for her, or for Layla. He never holds back from his thoughts or feelings, but he also makes a safe space for both Daisy and Layla to come to him for anything they need, whether it’s help with a project, or reassurance when they’re stressed, or just to tell him about something they’re excited about, he’s one hundred percent there for them. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for any of his loved ones, and I loved how he was so determined to make Daisy his again. I can’t wait for everyone to read this and fall in love with him too.
Thank you so much to @mariejohnstonwriter and @theauthor.agency for this beautiful ARC!
Be sure to grab your own copy today from your favorite book vendor💗
Daisy Whispers is a small town, marriage of convenience, single mom, forced proximity, second chance romance between Daisy and Alder.
I really felt for Daisy. She’s doing the best she can for herself and her daughter, Layla, and she’s incredibly hard on herself and constantly preparing for people to leave her once it all becomes too much. But she also did everything she could to protect the two of them from heartache, and who could blame her?? And what I really loved was seeing her learn to open up and trust again as she falls in love with Alder for a second time. Her story is a beautiful reminder that we all deserve love and happiness, and the right people will stay in our lives because they want to. We just need to learn to trust again.
Alder is so easy to fall for, it’s no wonder Daisy fell for him twice. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for her, or for Layla. He never holds back from his thoughts or feelings, but he also makes a safe space for both Daisy and Layla to come to him for anything they need, whether it’s help with a project, or reassurance when they’re stressed, or just to tell him about something they’re excited about, he’s one hundred percent there for them. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for any of his loved ones, and I loved how he was so determined to make Daisy his again. I can’t wait for everyone to read this and fall in love with him too.
Thank you so much to @mariejohnstonwriter and @theauthor.agency for this beautiful ARC!
Be sure to grab your own copy today from your favorite book vendor💗
May 8, 2025
Rating: 4 🌟
Spice: 🌶 🌶
OH HONEY! You better buckle up because this second chance romance is a full-on emotional rollercoaster with a side of spice and a whole lotta heartache. We’re talking an angst buffet with a marriage of convenience, a broody CEO who’s basically been manifesting his ex-wife for over a decade, and a single mom who’s got more on her plate than just lingering feelings. It’s giving, "Do I trust you or throw a coffee mug at your head?" energy, which I was so here for.
Alder? Sweet baby angel Alder? This man took mental notes during fights from fifteen years ago and actually did the work to fix himself. He’s sincere, he’s patient, and he is desperate for a second shot with Daisy—and honestly, we don’t blame him. Meanwhile, Daisy is out here trying to hold it all together, questioning every decision she’s ever made while raising a daughter who is her whole world, and you just want to wrap her in a blanket and yell, “BABE, LET YOURSELF BE LOVED.”
Every single page drips with tension—past regrets lurking in every corner, hope peeking through like sunshine after a storm, and a present so emotionally messy you’ll want to both scream and sob. It’s a dance of trust, fear, and slow-burning chemistry that makes you feel like you’re walking on eggshells and wishing they'd just take that jump already.
This book had me all up in my feels, clutching my chest, throwing imaginary objects, and whispering “please kiss” into the void. It’s vulnerable, raw, gorgeously written, and by the end? *Chef’s kiss.* Satisfying in the best way.
Thank you Marie and The Author Agency providing me another fix for my second chance romance addiction 🤣🤣
Spice: 🌶 🌶
OH HONEY! You better buckle up because this second chance romance is a full-on emotional rollercoaster with a side of spice and a whole lotta heartache. We’re talking an angst buffet with a marriage of convenience, a broody CEO who’s basically been manifesting his ex-wife for over a decade, and a single mom who’s got more on her plate than just lingering feelings. It’s giving, "Do I trust you or throw a coffee mug at your head?" energy, which I was so here for.
Alder? Sweet baby angel Alder? This man took mental notes during fights from fifteen years ago and actually did the work to fix himself. He’s sincere, he’s patient, and he is desperate for a second shot with Daisy—and honestly, we don’t blame him. Meanwhile, Daisy is out here trying to hold it all together, questioning every decision she’s ever made while raising a daughter who is her whole world, and you just want to wrap her in a blanket and yell, “BABE, LET YOURSELF BE LOVED.”
Every single page drips with tension—past regrets lurking in every corner, hope peeking through like sunshine after a storm, and a present so emotionally messy you’ll want to both scream and sob. It’s a dance of trust, fear, and slow-burning chemistry that makes you feel like you’re walking on eggshells and wishing they'd just take that jump already.
This book had me all up in my feels, clutching my chest, throwing imaginary objects, and whispering “please kiss” into the void. It’s vulnerable, raw, gorgeously written, and by the end? *Chef’s kiss.* Satisfying in the best way.
Thank you Marie and The Author Agency providing me another fix for my second chance romance addiction 🤣🤣
May 7, 2025
There are so many moments is this book that touched my heart, made me smile or induced a sigh. I admire Daisy for her persistence, resilience and determination. She puts her daughter’s well-being first, something her own parents never did with her. She was brave enough to leave Alder all those years ago when his behaviour and attitude slowed her that he didn’t value her or the relationship. It broke her heart to do so, but for her own mental and emotional health it had to be done. She left Laila’s father because she didn’t love him the way he should be loved, and even though it makes more financial sense to stay with him, she wants him to be free to find someone to love him as he deserves. Being near Alder is bittersweet. Daisy has never stopped loving him, but she is afraid to trust him with her heart again and also afraid to trust her judgement. Alder is a man on a mission. He is set on regaining Daisy’s trust and love. He knows it will take an abundance of patience and time, as it will with young Laila too. He plans to show her in every way that he can that he is no longer the brash, immature and self-absorbed man he had been during their first marriage. His family is happy to accept Daisy back into the fold, but she is afraid to get close to them again because this marriage of convenience has a lime limit. Can Alder convince Daisy to give him and marriage another chance? Can she open her heart and trust again?
This emotional, sweet and spicy second chance at love romance is riveting. It has my wholehearted recommendation.
This emotional, sweet and spicy second chance at love romance is riveting. It has my wholehearted recommendation.
May 7, 2025
Second chances aren't typically my thing as the reasons they split are the very reasons they don't belong together. BUT --- Alder and Daisy completely changed my mind! The reasoning behind their divorce was believable and even Daisy's reasoning for splitting with Jason. There was a lot of emotion behind everything, but written in such an eloquent way that it made me yearn for more as I read page to page.
Daisy's a bit of a contradiction at times, but as we open her character up chapter after chapter, I began to feel an intense connection to her. It's completely possible to want a deeper connection (including hugging/touching/etc.) with loved ones but not physically being able to actually do those things without feeling comfortable. I do that on a daily basis! I love how she fights against her insistict when it comes to her daughter (and eventually Alder!). To see that growth for her is astounding because it's truly difficult to capture without making it seem "overnight".
Alder has shown a ton of growth and is willing to admit that he wasn't the best husband the first time around. Yet when his second chance falls in his lap, he's ALL IN. And he does it without being overly dominant about it. He follows Daisy's lead, finding subtle ways to break through the shell she's created for herself. He's an incredible man full of patience who brings everything to the table on this second go-around. No holds barred!
This book was perfectly paced, fulfilling every hope I had for Daisy and Alder from the very start. One of the first books in a while to make me literally swoon!
Daisy's a bit of a contradiction at times, but as we open her character up chapter after chapter, I began to feel an intense connection to her. It's completely possible to want a deeper connection (including hugging/touching/etc.) with loved ones but not physically being able to actually do those things without feeling comfortable. I do that on a daily basis! I love how she fights against her insistict when it comes to her daughter (and eventually Alder!). To see that growth for her is astounding because it's truly difficult to capture without making it seem "overnight".
Alder has shown a ton of growth and is willing to admit that he wasn't the best husband the first time around. Yet when his second chance falls in his lap, he's ALL IN. And he does it without being overly dominant about it. He follows Daisy's lead, finding subtle ways to break through the shell she's created for herself. He's an incredible man full of patience who brings everything to the table on this second go-around. No holds barred!
This book was perfectly paced, fulfilling every hope I had for Daisy and Alder from the very start. One of the first books in a while to make me literally swoon!
May 13, 2025
🌼💔 He was her first love. Her ex-husband. And now… her husband again? Sign me UP for the angsty, swoony, “what if” rollercoaster that is Daisy Whispers! Marie Johnston absolutely nailed it with this emotional, tender, and oh-so-satisfying second-chance romance.
I consumed this book. Like, cancel-all-plans, ignore-the-dishes, “just one more chapter” until 2am obsessed. Daisy and Alder’s story hooked me from the very first page and refused to let go. These two aren’t just exes—they’re soulmates who lost each other, grew up separately, and suddenly find themselves thrown into a one-year fake marriage arrangement that’s anything but fake.
Alder Duke—hello, character development! Once the wild boy who broke her heart, now he’s the swoony, grown-up version in gray sweatpants who cooks, unclogs sinks, and somehow wins over her stubborn teenage daughter?? I was melting right alongside Daisy. 🥵💞
And Daisy? She’s strong, cautious, and full of quiet grace. You feel every layer of her heartbreak, her hesitations, and the ache of falling for the man who already hurt her once. Their dynamic is electric—full of chemistry, tension, and whispered what-ifs that will have your heart doing cartwheels.
This isn’t just a fake marriage. It’s redemption. Healing. Growth. And a second chance so beautifully done, it felt like a warm hug and a gut punch at the same time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — For daisy whispers, steamy glances, second chances, and the undeniable truth that love, when it’s real, always finds a way back.
I consumed this book. Like, cancel-all-plans, ignore-the-dishes, “just one more chapter” until 2am obsessed. Daisy and Alder’s story hooked me from the very first page and refused to let go. These two aren’t just exes—they’re soulmates who lost each other, grew up separately, and suddenly find themselves thrown into a one-year fake marriage arrangement that’s anything but fake.
Alder Duke—hello, character development! Once the wild boy who broke her heart, now he’s the swoony, grown-up version in gray sweatpants who cooks, unclogs sinks, and somehow wins over her stubborn teenage daughter?? I was melting right alongside Daisy. 🥵💞
And Daisy? She’s strong, cautious, and full of quiet grace. You feel every layer of her heartbreak, her hesitations, and the ache of falling for the man who already hurt her once. Their dynamic is electric—full of chemistry, tension, and whispered what-ifs that will have your heart doing cartwheels.
This isn’t just a fake marriage. It’s redemption. Healing. Growth. And a second chance so beautifully done, it felt like a warm hug and a gut punch at the same time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — For daisy whispers, steamy glances, second chances, and the undeniable truth that love, when it’s real, always finds a way back.
May 18, 2025
This is book 2 in the Coal Haven series, and is an interconnected standalone. This is Alder and Daisy's story, and these two were married childhood sweethearts, but divorced 15 years ago.
Daisy is a complex FMC, one of the most complex I have read, with difficulties, trusting and allowing others to help. She left Alder because of his behaviours back then and then has found herself bouncy from one disastrous relationship to another, with the most recent resulting in her daughter Laila. It is important to note, that her issues throughout are partly to do with these past relationships, something highlighted towards the end of the book, and explain why she is the way she is. But, without a doubt, Daisy is strong and a great Mum.
Alder has grown ALOT, he is no longer Crazy A, the party hard, no care attitude of his youth has gone, a result of the love of his life, Daisy, leaving him all those years ago. He has returned to become the CEO of the company Daisy works for, and claim on his inheritance. Each of the Duke Siblings have been left a house, on the proviso they are married. As chance would have it, Daisy finds herself nearly homeless, when Alder steps back into her life with a proposition. Daisy, with no other choice, takes him up, and Alder sets to prove he still loves her and wants to win her love and trust back. And boy does he ever. The relationship is tricky with her daughter Laila, who is every bit like Daisy, but Alder is going nowhere, and is in for the long haul. Second Chance Romance at its best. This was good.
Daisy is a complex FMC, one of the most complex I have read, with difficulties, trusting and allowing others to help. She left Alder because of his behaviours back then and then has found herself bouncy from one disastrous relationship to another, with the most recent resulting in her daughter Laila. It is important to note, that her issues throughout are partly to do with these past relationships, something highlighted towards the end of the book, and explain why she is the way she is. But, without a doubt, Daisy is strong and a great Mum.
Alder has grown ALOT, he is no longer Crazy A, the party hard, no care attitude of his youth has gone, a result of the love of his life, Daisy, leaving him all those years ago. He has returned to become the CEO of the company Daisy works for, and claim on his inheritance. Each of the Duke Siblings have been left a house, on the proviso they are married. As chance would have it, Daisy finds herself nearly homeless, when Alder steps back into her life with a proposition. Daisy, with no other choice, takes him up, and Alder sets to prove he still loves her and wants to win her love and trust back. And boy does he ever. The relationship is tricky with her daughter Laila, who is every bit like Daisy, but Alder is going nowhere, and is in for the long haul. Second Chance Romance at its best. This was good.
April 28, 2025
I have absolutely loved every book in the Crocus Valley and Coal Haven series, but this one may just be my new favorite.
Alder and Daisy were high school sweethearts turned husband and wife, but then Alder seemed to want his freedom and Daisy gave it to him.
It's been 15 years since then and now Daisy is a single mom looking for a place to live while Alder is the new CEO at the company where Daisy works. Alder needs a wife in order to get the house he grew up in (thanks, Grandma!), so Alder proposes a plan. If they get married again and stay married for one year, both of their problems are solved, but Alder has another plan that he's keeping to himself: he wants his wife back for a lot longer than just one year.
Second chance romance is my favorite, especially when it's a married couple getting another chance at their HEA. I loved everything about this couple and I appreciated the dynamic of all of the relationships in this story, even more so because they didn't follow what I'd typically expect in this type of storyline.
While this story isn't overly angsty, Alder and Daisy's relationship kept me turning the pages, and I was rooting so hard for them to make it work the second time around. In my opinion, there was just the right amount of drama, steam, and heartache between these pages, and I look forward to seeing more of this couple and all of the others in the next book in this series.
Alder and Daisy were high school sweethearts turned husband and wife, but then Alder seemed to want his freedom and Daisy gave it to him.
It's been 15 years since then and now Daisy is a single mom looking for a place to live while Alder is the new CEO at the company where Daisy works. Alder needs a wife in order to get the house he grew up in (thanks, Grandma!), so Alder proposes a plan. If they get married again and stay married for one year, both of their problems are solved, but Alder has another plan that he's keeping to himself: he wants his wife back for a lot longer than just one year.
Second chance romance is my favorite, especially when it's a married couple getting another chance at their HEA. I loved everything about this couple and I appreciated the dynamic of all of the relationships in this story, even more so because they didn't follow what I'd typically expect in this type of storyline.
While this story isn't overly angsty, Alder and Daisy's relationship kept me turning the pages, and I was rooting so hard for them to make it work the second time around. In my opinion, there was just the right amount of drama, steam, and heartache between these pages, and I look forward to seeing more of this couple and all of the others in the next book in this series.
May 3, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
I’ve been reminded again how much I enjoy the world’s that Marie Johnston creates when reading Daisy Whispers. Her writing is so easy to dive right into. Enough detail to grab you — not too much mechanical that it’s dry, and chock full of deep emotions.
Alder Duke finally has his 2nd chance with his first true love, Daisy. And let me tell you, I may have found a new (at least to me) favorite micro trip…the reformed knucklehead. He definitely wasn’t a playboy, but his antics absolutely played into their relationship the first time around. But boy do I love seeing a man who, from the get go no less, is singularly focused on winning back the obsession of his heart. Which is exactly how Alder approaches his marriage of convenience proposal to Daisy.
Daisy for her part has never gotten over Alder either - no one could ever live up, no one ever would. Because Alder was the only one to truly know, see, & understand Daisy — with her certain preferences, how she processed situations & emotions, and how she needed space sometimes. That man KNEW her - and made it his honor to re-learn her in their 2nd chance!
Gotta love a romantic grandma who makes marriage clauses in their trusts. Because were it not for her, these two may never have made their way back to each other! And I, for one, am glad for it!
Can’t wait to get back to Coal Haven for our next couple!
Spice: 🌶️
I’ve been reminded again how much I enjoy the world’s that Marie Johnston creates when reading Daisy Whispers. Her writing is so easy to dive right into. Enough detail to grab you — not too much mechanical that it’s dry, and chock full of deep emotions.
Alder Duke finally has his 2nd chance with his first true love, Daisy. And let me tell you, I may have found a new (at least to me) favorite micro trip…the reformed knucklehead. He definitely wasn’t a playboy, but his antics absolutely played into their relationship the first time around. But boy do I love seeing a man who, from the get go no less, is singularly focused on winning back the obsession of his heart. Which is exactly how Alder approaches his marriage of convenience proposal to Daisy.
Daisy for her part has never gotten over Alder either - no one could ever live up, no one ever would. Because Alder was the only one to truly know, see, & understand Daisy — with her certain preferences, how she processed situations & emotions, and how she needed space sometimes. That man KNEW her - and made it his honor to re-learn her in their 2nd chance!
Gotta love a romantic grandma who makes marriage clauses in their trusts. Because were it not for her, these two may never have made their way back to each other! And I, for one, am glad for it!
Can’t wait to get back to Coal Haven for our next couple!
May 3, 2025
I didn't realize when I started reading this that both Daisy and her daughter are on the autism spectrum. Unless I missed it, this isn't mentioned in the blurb and it's not exactly explained in the story. They exhibit signs, such as not liking being touched or hugged and appearing unemotional at times, but since I didn't realize they were autistic I thought Daisy was uncaring. This made it more difficult for me to see her side of things. I wish this was mentioned in the blurb then I would have gone into the story with a little different attitude. It is mentioned that her parents are cold and I just assumed it was a result of how Daisy was raised, not autism.
Both Daisy and Alder are trying to reconnect after being divorced for fifteen years. He really messed up during their first marriage and now Daisy questions all her decisions regarding relationships. It was a bit up and down and her internal dialogue was a little frustrating at times. He messed up and now he's overcompensating to make up for that. She's made mistakes in other relationships so she questions every one of his actions and doesn't know if her continuing uncertainty is her fault or his.
This story is good, and for me it would have been better if I'd gone into it knowing about the autism. This would have explained a lot of their (Daisy and her daughter) actions.
I received an advance reader copy and this is my honest review.
Both Daisy and Alder are trying to reconnect after being divorced for fifteen years. He really messed up during their first marriage and now Daisy questions all her decisions regarding relationships. It was a bit up and down and her internal dialogue was a little frustrating at times. He messed up and now he's overcompensating to make up for that. She's made mistakes in other relationships so she questions every one of his actions and doesn't know if her continuing uncertainty is her fault or his.
This story is good, and for me it would have been better if I'd gone into it knowing about the autism. This would have explained a lot of their (Daisy and her daughter) actions.
I received an advance reader copy and this is my honest review.
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