Take A Chance On Me is a standalone novel in the sweet & spicy open door interconnected Songs of Saint Croix series. This story is a second chance romance with humor and banter, suspense, found family, fantastic side characters, and a swoony romance between a reformed Casanova and a reforming Femme Fatale. This novel is written in third person POV and intended for mature audiences. See author website for content warnings.
When she blows through town like a hurricane, his life will never be the same.
In the crosshairs of success her whole life, former swimming prodigy Cassie Chandler fails disastrously at Olympic qualifiers and decides to throw herself into a strange new job and an island fling that makes her feel alive. But her future is already in motion when she meets Chance Jones, and she follows the path into reality television to escape her old life before they ever have a chance. But she never forgets their brief and passionate time together.
After overcoming loss, reconnecting with his home, and building up a successful charter boat business on St. Croix, Chance has his life exactly where he wants it, or so he thinks. When Cassie arrives, she's more intense than the recent hurricane, and he begins to see light shine through the cracks in his world… but then she's gone.
Two years later, when a change in filming schedule lands Cassie’s show back in the Caribbean, and she’s on Chance’s island hiding a frightening secret—can he save her? When everything is at stake, and he’s willing to put it all on the line—will Chance finally get his chance at love?
K. L. Shannon loves all genres of romance and secretly scribbled her own stories for years. After being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, she decided to seize the day and share all her imagination brings to her at night. Shannon currently resides in Phoenix, Arizona, with her family and a colony of naughty rescue cats.
"You can find your own way. But I will be your lighthouse in the storm, your anchor, the rock you know you can always come back to."
This is my first book by this author, and I enjoyed it! The story was so light and heartwarming, filled with fun banter between the main characters, some spice, and a hint of suspense. Chance and Cassie meet on an island and instantly click. They dive into a no-strings-attached relationship, but soon enough, feelings start to blossom. However, Cassie has to leave for work soon. For two years, they stay in touch and build a friendship, but when Cassie returns to the island, it becomes clear they can't ignore their feelings any longer. But Cassie’s got a secret that could change everything.
"I think when I'm around Chance, that's when I feel I shine the brightest."
Cassie is a former swimming prodigy who missed her chance at the Olympics due to an illness, and now she’s trying her hand at being a reality TV actress. She’s fearless, selfless, and has such a bright personality! Even though she’s unsure about her future, she isn’t afraid to take risks. Chance, on the other hand, is protective, patient, and super supportive. He used to be a playboy, but he has a romantic side, especially when it comes to Cassie. I loved how patient he was with her as they figured out their relationship together. Their friendship over the years was easygoing, and their playful banter was a joy to read. Plus, it was heartwarming to see how Chance’s family welcomed Cassie as one of their own!
This story isn’t just about Chase and Cassie’s romance; it’s also about self-discovery. I loved seeing Cassie grow as a person, find love, create a home, and even mend her relationship with her family. It was such a fulfilling journey!
"I was hoping that you would see everything and then come back and know that this is where you belong."
“Take A Chance On Me” by K.L. Shannon is a delightfully sweet, second chance romance. The title is a clever spin on the name of the MMC Chance, and also a nod to the second chance trope of the story. Chance falls for Cassie unexpectedly, when she is visiting his home, the lush, tropical island of St. Croix. Over a whirlwind couple of weeks, they create memories that will comfort and cause angst in them both, over the course of the next couple of years. Cassie is cast as the FMC in a reality TV show that films aboard a super-yacht. The yacht docks in the port in St. Croix between filming seasons, and Cassie takes those opportunities to have alone time with Chance aboard his home on the water. But Cassie is hiding a secret about what really goes on behind the scenes of the reality TV show, and the darkness from the show spills over into her personal life. Cassie realizes she’s fallen for Chance, and may want to spend forever with him in St Croix, but her secret threatens to ruin everything. This is a spicy, somewhat suspenseful story, with a strong finish for the FMC and a HEA. I thank Luna Literary Management and K.L. Shannon for the ARC of this book and the opportunity to review it. I had not read the first book in the series, “The One Who Got Away”, as this book was indicated to be a stand alone option. However, I felt like this book somewhat rushed the relationship, and didn’t take enough time building it. After going back and reading book one, there was more of a background to Chance and Cassie, and the characters were more developed. I would recommend reading the books in order for the best experience!
Cassie Chandler is fresh off the loss of her Olympic swimming dreams and looking for a new start and adventure. She lands a role on a yachting reality TV, but before filming begins she decides to take a vacation in St. Croix. Cassie was looking forward to the tranquility and the pristine beaches and sun. But what she didn't expect was the local Casanova and the week she would spend with him.
Chance is healing after a recent broken heart and repairing the island that is his home after a hurricane. His charter boat business is successful and he is surrounded by family and friends, what else could he need? In sweeps Cassie to blow him off his mourings and changes his perspective about what his future should be. But they only have a week, and he can't become attached. But what if he can't help himself?
This book had me hooked, I couldn't put it down the last 50%. First off, the banter!! The chemistry between Cassie and Chance is just off the charts. They are adorable, corny, witty, and playful. You can't help but fall for them. Chance is everything you want in a male main character. He is sensitive, loving, protective but also knows when to stand down. Cassie is a tough, somewhat emotional unavailable, and headstrong woman (one I could relate to). The story has it all, suspense, romance, spice, and found family. Trust me add this to your TBR!
My first thought when I finished this book was ~ What a beautiful read. This was so different and unique and just right. The writing was flowy, the storyline kept me captivated and everything just felt like it was meant to be written. I loved the aspect that our MMC Chance was the romantic one. He was the one softening up our FMC Cassie. You don’t read that too often and I enjoyed it. I could really feel Chance’s love for Cassie and his longing for her, he was so resolute in everything he did for her. My heart was swooning for him. He had so much patience and his charisma was beautiful. Cassie was vulnerable but also fierce, I loved when she started softening up after going through some heavy stuff. Chance really was her guide and her rock to lean on in her healing. Their flirtatious banter and chemistry was gorgeous. Icing on the cake for this read was our Epilogue which was years later. I loved to see 5+ years later in an Epilogue to really give us a picture of where the characters end up. I loved where Chance and Cassie ended up, absolute perfection of an ending.
I’m going to be super corny and write… Take A Chance On this book and add it to your TBR!
And now he'd lit something molten inside her. Her anger and resentment, which she'd held on to and fanned the flames of, were melting into something different. Something dangerous.
Before I begin I want to thank the author, K. L. Shannon, for giving me this ARC.
I thought this was okay. It's not bad or unpleasant. I liked the idea of it. For me it just needs a buildup. I didn't like that it started right on the first few chapters. The characters felt a little bit flat, I would've liked to read more about them as an individual. Overall it was okay not life changing or anything. I think it just needed a bit more time to develop.
Chance and Cassie have an unforgettable week together but after a hurricane wrecks havoc on the island Cassie has to leave after her work plans change. They keep in touch and two years later Cassie returns to the island. But she’s not entirely the same. There’s a darkness that has invaded her life and she tries to hide it from Chance. When he finds out the true extent of what has happened over the last two years, he will stop at nothing to make it right for Cassie again. Will they find their happily ever after together or will other factors destroy their lives?
Oh Chance 🥺🥺 I had mixed feelings about him during parts of the first book but he grew on me and now I’ve read his story I can say I’m officially in love! This story was darker than the first so don’t think it will have the same lightness. While it’s mostly light and fun, it touches on the dark. I just really enjoyed this one and I honestly hope it’s not the last we see from these characters and the island!
This is an ARC review and all opinions are my own. Thank you to Luna Literary Management for the ARC copy of this book and for the opportunity to read and review it
Take a Chance on Me by K.L. Shannon is an interconnected standalone read part of Song of Saint Croix series. The title is an interesting play on words of the MMC’s name Chance. He is not looking for love but unexpectedly finds it with the FMC. The female main character comes to Saint Croix before joining a show which films on a boat. She is not in a position to start a relationship but falls for Chance anyway. Cassie slowly finds a road back to Chance while breaking free of darker things which happen in her job. This book deals with complex topics. The cute micro tropes include secret tattoos, nicknames, he reads romance novels, she wears strawberry lip gloss just for him,and he serenades her at karaoke. This five star read is one where it highly recommended you check trigger warnings before you read as darker topics present before HEA. Drama is unique as drama is the road to uniting rather than a break up trope. I highly recommended this book to romance readers looking to find a new author. This book will be released on February 5th,2025.
I received an arc for Take A Chance On Me from K.L. Shannon and Luna Literacy and I’m sad It took me so long to read it!
I absolutely adored this book. Chance was everything I envisioned he’d be and more! Cassie was beautiful and strong and strong willed and I love that she protects those around her with utmost importance. She learns that she needs to lean on others to help take care of her.
Their relationship was fast and heavy and heady and when they were separated, they both still loved each other, inwardly. The ending was perfect for them too! I love that they both got the family they deserved. 😭
ARC Book Review 💜Take A Chance On Me⚓️ Book 2 of the Songs of Saint Croix Series Written By: K. L. Shannon
Overall: 3.75/5 Overall plot: 3.75/5 Character development: 3.75/5 Pace: 3.75/5 World building: 3.75/5 Spice 🌶️: 2.5/5
Thank you K. L. Shannon for letting me read this book ahead of the release date!
This is the first time I’ve read K.L. Shannon’s work and I appreciated that she wrote about a FMC with autoimmune disease and how she navigates it after being diagnosed.
Sometimes you need to figure out where to go when life closes one door you were sure you’re going to jump through - that’s exactly what happened with Cassie Chandler. She was on her way to the Olympic qualifiers until she didn’t; she had to figure out what to do now that was no longer her future, so she signed herself up to join the reality tv circuit on private boats. Before she starts, she meets Chance Jones and they instantly connect and have the most memorable week.
Chance is a local to St. Croix who had been overcoming loss, building a successful business on the island and thought he was happy, until his whirlwind week with Cassie.
Two years later, Cassie’s schedule lands her back at the island and reconnects with Chance and it’s harder for her to leave because she realizes Chance is probably where she wants to be - where she wants her future.
I really enjoy both their characters and how they develop over the course of the story; Chance is protective, patient and so supportive while Cassie is selfless, fearless and has a fun personality! I loved how her friends came around to show her that she doesn’t have to do things alone.
Overall, I’d recommend this book if you like to read about a second chance romance with great chemistry and community development.
Tropes: 💜 Second Chance ⛴ Romantic Suspense ⚓️ Instant Attraction/Fast Burn 💜 Reformed Casanova ⛴ Reforming Femme Fatale ⚓️ Chronic Illness Rep 💜 Open Door/Spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️ ⛴ Third Person Dual POV
This is the second book (interconnected standalone) in the songs of st croix series. I do recommend reading the first one because these characters show up in chapter 33. You may feel a little lost if you don’t start there.
Not only did a hurricane hit the island, it hit 2 people who never thought they’d find each other. Cassie and chance meet before she’s due to start her career on a super yacht, filming as part of a crew for reality tv. They hit it off and after a week, stay friends but live their own lives for 2 years. A unexpected turn brings Cassie back to the island and the one man who truly sees and knows her. Chance and her spend all there time together, slotting into each others personal life like they’ve never felt before. When her job comes calling due to contracts, she has to navigate through her own personal and professional nightmare. While trying to stay afloat and keep her hopes and dreams from slipping through her fingers. Chance is always there, waiting to help and support. To show her she can trust him and that she has people, himself his family and friends, in her corner willing to battle for her. This is a cute romantic, found love story. There are darker aspects so check trigger warnings. With the best found family, support system and character development!
Chance! My man got his story in the sequel to the Songs of Saint Croix series and it was as amazing as I had expected it to be.
From the first book, I was personally folding for Chance. I couldn’t tell you what it was - well now I can obviously - but this man deserved a happily ever after and he finally got it! It took a lot of effort on his part but I wasn’t so happy once I actually finished the story. This man, who everyone deemed a Casanova, simply wanted his own little romance with someone he could call his own, but of course he ended up pining after a woman who was only looking for something temporary. Again, she was up front with him, but this man simply cannot hold back I guess. Cassie was such an amazing female lead and was exactly what Chance needed. She was full of fire and all things that fed into his character. These two were steamy from the beginning, and each chance they had to be filling absorbed with the other - they took the chance. There was a lot of angst in the story, but the happy ending they had was fully worth it in my opinion. They each found a home with each other and it was so lovely to see it.
This book deals with some heavy topics, just like the first in the series, so I would definitely make sure you read the content warnings before picking the book up.
Take A Chance On Me is the second installment of the Songs of Saint Croix series, and I LOVED it. I wanted Chance’s story so bad after the first book and KL Shannon did not disappoint. This book follows Chance and Cassie in a second chance romance and what a ride it was.
Cassie is a fantastic FMC. She develops so much in this book and it was beautiful. I enjoyed how she started standing up for herself and the way she thinks through everything. Her love for Chance is just perfect.
Chance was one of my favorites in the first book of the series and I loved him even more in this one. Chance loves so hard and it’s very evident. His love for Cassie is just perfect. I also love how he talks about his past and how it shaped his present and future.
There were so many aspects of this book I just adored. I loved the found family, the talk of Hashimoto’s disease, the bit of suspense in this book, and the glimpses of all of the previous characters. It added so much to the story. I am so ready for the next book!
Favorite Quote: “But I will be your lighthouse in the storm, your anchor, the rock you know you can always come back to. But I need you to understand that…I love you…I’m in love with you, Cassie. I always have been, and that’s never going to change. I’m yours. In whatever way you decide you want me, I’m yours. I’m not here to save you. I’m here to stand beside you.”
Take a Chance on Me is an interconnected standalone in the Songs of Saint Croix series and was a strong follow up to the first book, The One Who Got Away, which I absolutely loved.
This story focuses on Chance, who we met in book 1, and his relationship with Cassie, who he meets (and has a whirlwind, week-long romance with), then is separated from for two years due to her work schedule (filming on a boat for a reality show). At its core, this is a charming second chance romance, full of witty banter, butterfly-inducing chemistry between our MCs (I just KNEW Chance was a charmer from book 1), and in this case, some suspense and darker elements that were a surprise to me, given they weren't present in book 1. It was a cool addition I really enjoyed!
This story is one of resilience and bravery, overcoming obstacles and finding love in the most unexpected (tropical) place. The found family in this series is also top tier, which just added to its charm - and I'd say if you love a good slow burn with some humorous levity and really great characters, you can’t go wrong with Take a Chance on Me!
Thanks so much to KL and Luna Literary Mgmt for the chance to read this story in advance!
Oh my gosh. Take A Chance On Me was SO GOOD! I loved Chance and Cassie from the very first moment. Their chemistry truly is electric, and the spice was SPICING in this book! Their second-chance romance of it all really was the epitome of right place, right time!
These books make me want to take a trip to St. Croix! The setting truly is the perfect place to fall in love. I loved the added plot point of Cassie working in reality tv- as an avid watcher of reality tv, this book did a fantastic job of showing it and its underbelly.
This book has some darker moments. It was clear from the very beginning that K.L. Shannon was taking all of the care and respect in the world with these topics. The moment at the end of the book where Cassie chooses herself and the love between her and Chance made me tear up. Sharing these stories is a gift, and it’s truly wonderful to see those happy endings for characters you especially are rooting for.
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
Take A Chance on Me by K.L. Shannon is a heartwarming second-chance romance with the perfect mix of passion, personal growth, and a touch of suspense.
Cassie and Chance meet on the beautiful island of St. Croix, where their instant connection leads to a no-strings-attached romance. But when Cassie has to leave for work, they stay in touch, building a strong friendship over two years. When she returns, their chemistry is undeniable, but a secret Cassie has been keeping could change everything.
Cassie is fearless and determined, trying to find her path after her Olympic dreams were cut short. Chance is protective, patient, and completely devoted to her. Their banter is fun, their connection is undeniable, and the way Chance always supports Cassie makes their love story even more special.
Set against a stunning tropical backdrop, this book is about love, self-discovery, and finding where you truly belong. With an engaging storyline, great characters, and the perfect mix of romance and emotion, Take A Chance on Me is a must-read!
I immediately thought of that popular ABBA song. Honestly, I’ve been an ABBA fan since I was a kid, so of course, the title of this book caught my attention right away. The songs mentioned in the book were also familiar to me. I even highlighted one of the song lyrics in the book, and oh no—ML didn’t sing that song by The Cranberries!
From the start, this book had a relaxed, cozy, and slow-living vibe. Reading it felt like soaking in a gentle sea breeze on the beach. Though the resolution of the conflict felt a bit rushed, almost as if it was brushed over. Everything fit well—except for some steamy scenes that were quite intense.
The storyline leaned more towards cozy suspense and heart wrenching climax. Plus, the daring stunt performed by FL made me tremble in fear. God bless them all.
The sense of found-family in this book was also very strong. Though I couldn’t help but wonder about the future of this relationship, especially how FL’s family would react to ML. Maybe I’ll just have to leave that part to my imagination.
This story follows Chase and Cassie through a list filled week and then life finds them together again 2 years later. This book is spicy, it’s cutesy, it’s about finding yourself. Cassie has a rather interesting career after some health issues that caused her swimming career to end. She’s got family issues and a career that lands her on camera and in a bad situation. Chase is humble, patient, and a constant supporter of Cassie throughout her journey. You’ll love the banter between Cassie and Chase. You’ll also love that this story comes with a happy ending for them both.
Well now i need to go and read the first one of this series! The chemistry with Cassie and Chance?! 🔥 Cassie is reeling from a failed career as an Olympic swimmer after a hashimotos diagnosis and joined a reality show cast on a yacht. She meets Chance while’s she’s in Saint Croix only for a few days and they instantly have a long lasting connection. But Cassie is struggling in her professional life and not in the best situation.
I think the author did such a good job of depicting a toxic work environment and abusive past relationship. How it starts off small, the denial, the escalations, the excuses. This heavy topic was told in a very respectful way.
I wish it wasn’t in the Third person POV. I always prefer Dual. And the timeline at first was a bit choppy. But all in all I loved this story!
The author clearly describes this as a fast burn, insta-love, and there is no slow burn in sight. The author warned us, and she wasn't kidding! (If you like one-night stands that turn into something great, this is your vibe.) I read the first book (which is a slower burn), and I would recommend that for anyone interested in this one (even though you can read them stand alone), because we meet Chance as a side character in The One Who Got Away. I loved him in that book, even though he was a bit of an idiot, and I was so happy to have his swoony story unfold in his own book. Playboy turned romantic? Uh, yes please! Give me that and more tropical vibes any day. And loved having a fierce not swoony romantic FMC in Cassie for a change of pace. Great read for the winter doldrums.
This is the second book in the St. Croix interconnected series. I absolutely loved the first one, but overall, I found this one was okay; I enjoyed it, but I didn't love it. I found for my own personally that this one was missing a little something (that I couldn't quite put my finger on) for me to love it the way I did the first book. It could be that some of the tropes listed above aren't typically my favourites. One thing that K.L. Shannon really knows how to do well, though, is write spiiiiiice, and this one was spicy off the hop - wowee! 🥵 I also really appreciated the disability rep as a co-worker of mines daughter is also diagnosed with Hoshimotos disease. I thoroughly enjoy K.L. Shannon's writing style, and I look forward to reading more from her.
Oh this was such a heartwarming book. You get the story of Cassie and Chance and how their friendship turns into something more they both wanted. Even with the break in between, you can see their wants for each other and how badly they wanted to be with one another.
They both had chemistry and a lot of banter that made the story easy going and fun to read.
I did enjoy the book and their relationship growth. I felt Chance was patient with Cassie and I loved that about him and for whatever reason, he always tried to make it right.
The whole book was perfect with romance, darkness, and amazing.
I’m truly grateful to Luna Literary and KL Shannon for the opportunity to receive an ARC of their upcoming release. Please note that my review reflects my personal opinion alone.
Everyone knows that I am an ABBA nut and when I heard it was inspired by Mamma Mia, I was all over it.
Chance and Cassie have my heart. And what happens when you return to an island that holds a special place in her heart, but there's a secret that could change the course of her life.
Chance is protective, supportive, and ever loving. The man is patient, that takes care of our girl. I loved the representation of chronic illness and the relationship building within this story.
What you'll find: - Chronic Illness Rep - Found family - friends with benefits - reformed playboy - second chance - he falls first and maybe quite hard.
My first book by Shannon and I enjoyed reading it. It was a heartwarming charming story. This story has everything: fun banter between MCs, spice, suspense, secrets, and self-discovery.
I understand the purpose of the beginning immediate relationship was to be no strings, but I felt that it was rushed. I would have liked to read more about the characters as individuals. I think the no-strings relationship lacked chemistry because there was not enough build-up. I am rounding up to 4 stars because I thought it was an overall great book and easy read. I recommend this for a beach read or something if you need a break from the grey cold weather outside.
This is the first book I have read by K.L. Shannon and I must say I was not disappointed. The story was light and an easy read. We got a story with good banter, spice that was spicing and chemistry between our MMC Chance and FMC Cassie that was off the charts. It did feel a little rushed at times, but it did not ruin the story. The characters were written well, to the point they were relatable. Cassie is headstrong where Chance is more on the protective, sensitive side (who wouldn't want a man like Chance?) I was happy there was a time jump epilogue to give us some closure on where they ended up. Songs of Saint Croix series should definitely be added to everyone's TBR list.
I absolutely love Chance and Cassie's story! This was a solid read. Just the right amount of spicy and plot. I rated it lower than 5 stars though because at times, i felt like the story was just dragging.
Cassie's FMC role was well written in my opinion. As someone who also has Hashimotos- I appreciated seeing that in a story. Shes also a little bit of a badass and I'm always a sucker for that.
Chance MMC role was also well written and well- let me just say- Chance probably rates among the top of book boyfriends out there! He sounds absolutely delicious :) I def don't want to give out any spoilers- Just read the book! You will see what i mean (LOL)
A reality tv star and the town Casanova both decided to have a “fun” thing for just a little while until she left on the next charter on a super yacht. It was only supposed to be a fling. It was only supposed to be a distraction.
Two years later, they rekindle what they had and attempt to have an off screen something. But word travels fast and her captain (ex boyfriend) finds out. And he’s got a secret. One that the FMC hesitates to tell.
The spice is spicin 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ The banter is witty. 🤪 You feel like you are in this seaside abode!
Going back to read the first book in this series now!
A charming second-chance romance set against the lush, sun-drenched backdrop of St. Croix. With its perfect blend of humor, suspense, and swoon-worthy romance, this story will sweep you off your feet. the character’s dynamic is magnetic—equal parts playful banter and heart-pounding chemistry. The novel explores themes of resilience, rediscovery, and the courage it takes to embrace love, all while surrounding you with a vibrant found family of unforgettable side characters. Whether you’re a fan of slow-burn passion or laugh-out-loud moments, this book is an irresistible escape. 🌴💖
Cassie and Chance have an unusual relationship. Cassie working on a super yacht for reality TV and Chance in the charter business. I still love the setting of St. CROIX. Their relationship is built over time but in short increments if that makes sense.
Cassie is fearless and would do anything for anyone. She's willing to put herself in harms way to protect others. Chance has grown and is ready for a relationship and wants one with Cassie and he's willing to wait for her.
This is a fun novel. A few slow parts but still a fun read. Some tense moments.
Thanks to the author for allowing me to ARC review this book! It’s an interesting concept of island life with an insight into reality tv. There’s a lot happening throughout this book, but it is an easy read with short chapters.
Chance and Cassie were only supposed to be a fling but Chance shows her what it means to have someone truly want what’s best for her. “I’m not here to save you. I’m here to stand beside you.”
Witty banter. Spicyyyy (literally starts off with a bang 😉). Toxic family/work relationships. Found family. HEA
Take A Chance On Me (Songs of Saint Croix Book 2) is another good read from K. L. Shannon. This one tells the story of Chance and Cassie. Both MCs grew a lot through the book, but it was great to see an immature Chance from the first book grow into a mature guy who took his relationship with Cassie seriously.
The author had me wanting to beat the crap out of Todd when Cassie didn't stand up to him at first--but then Cassie decided she'd had enough. This second chance romance is as good as the first in the series. Recommend!