What do you think?
Rate this book
A Place to Call Home #2
One More Last Chance
Sarah Cooley has come home to Last Chance, New Mexico, for one reason--because it doesn't change. After an engagement gone bad with a man who wanted to change everything about her, Sarah is more than ready for the town whose motto may as well be, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
Chris Reed, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to spark some change in the little town. As the new owner of the Dip 'n' Dine, he's shaking things up to draw folks from all over the Southwest into his restaurant.
As it turns out, the winds of change are blowing into Last Chance--just not in the ways that Sarah or Chris might expect.
With the same evocative writing and fascinating characters that won fans for her debut novel, Cathleen Armstrong invites readers back to Last Chance for a soul-searching, romantic story of two people navigating the twists and turns of small-town life.
Chris Reed, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to spark some change in the little town. As the new owner of the Dip 'n' Dine, he's shaking things up to draw folks from all over the Southwest into his restaurant.
As it turns out, the winds of change are blowing into Last Chance--just not in the ways that Sarah or Chris might expect.
With the same evocative writing and fascinating characters that won fans for her debut novel, Cathleen Armstrong invites readers back to Last Chance for a soul-searching, romantic story of two people navigating the twists and turns of small-town life.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 29, 2014
225 people are currently reading
874 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
May 17, 2014
Sometimes a story or author's style will just click with me, and that is the case here. This is not a deep or difficult story to read, but rather charming and entertaining, with good characterization and well-developed plot - a "feel good" story that often had me reading with a smile. (Review continued at http://tinyurl.com/mzyt6qs)
September 16, 2020
This was a good read. However, the romance was really non existent. It more focuses on his niece and the drama with Sarah's boyfriend. I felt bad for Olivia because a child of her age should not have to deal with this. However, the next book is her mother's book and hopefully everything will work out for them.
April 26, 2020
Rating: 5 Stars!! (Wish i could rate it 10 Stars!!)
Review:
This was my first time reading a book by this author so i was unsure if i'd like this story or not BUT I loved it so much!!
This book/story was about a girl named Sarah who comes home to Last Chance, New Mexico after a bad breakup with her ex-boyfriend where she works at her families restaurant but soon falls in love with Chris Reed the new owner of the restaurant!!
The characters, setting and plot were so good and easy to get into!! I can't wait to read Books 1 and 3 in this series!! Ill definately read more by this author in the future!!
Review:
This was my first time reading a book by this author so i was unsure if i'd like this story or not BUT I loved it so much!!
This book/story was about a girl named Sarah who comes home to Last Chance, New Mexico after a bad breakup with her ex-boyfriend where she works at her families restaurant but soon falls in love with Chris Reed the new owner of the restaurant!!
The characters, setting and plot were so good and easy to get into!! I can't wait to read Books 1 and 3 in this series!! Ill definately read more by this author in the future!!
April 18, 2018
A delightful and wonderful story!
Cathleen Armstrong has become one of my absolute favorite authors. She writes clean, emotionally gripping and character-driven stories that reach out and wraps itself around the reader. I loved the characters in this story and the way I quickly was able to get hooked within their story. There was humor, heart-wrenching, smile inducing moments all the way through. I can't wait to dive into the 3rd story of this series!
Cathleen Armstrong has become one of my absolute favorite authors. She writes clean, emotionally gripping and character-driven stories that reach out and wraps itself around the reader. I loved the characters in this story and the way I quickly was able to get hooked within their story. There was humor, heart-wrenching, smile inducing moments all the way through. I can't wait to dive into the 3rd story of this series!
October 9, 2019
Sarah has come back to her hometown of Last Chance where things shouldn’t change. Of course there must be a hitch in that dream. Enter Chris Reed, who is new in town and wanting to make lots of changes, then get ready for sparks to fly. Full review is at my website.
January 1, 2019
Let's just get it out of the way: I had huge problems with the main character. From the get-go, she annoyed me. Although that was one of the reasons I couldn't fully enjoy this book, I also found myself not really being able to get into it, fully emmerse myself in the story.
Now, I will say, I didn't read the first book in the series. But as this was one of those series where the MC's of the first book only make an appearance, and there are all new MC's, I didn't have any issues. There may have been more family background, but nothing vital was missing.
Chris has moved to the little town of Last Chance. He has bought the local diner, and had plans to change things up a bit. He never imagined that he would face such opposition from the people of the town. He also never imagined his sister would leave her 7-year-old, Olivia, with him. The poor guy has hands full trying to run a sinking diner, and now care for a little girl when he has no clue how to do either.
Sarah has moved back after being away at college. After breaking things off with her long-time boyfriend, she just wants a place to refresh, a place where things never change. Except, she finds out that not only is there a new guy in town, he's trying to change things up.
There was no excuse for Sarah to treat Chris the way she did, and that was really set the tone for how I felt about her. She comes back to town, finds out Chris might want to make some changes (additions, really) to the menu at the Dip 'N Dine, and treats him so rudely. …what? I just didn't understand. And then yeah, the poor dude had a very obvious crush on Sarah, but she continues to be rude and embarrass him. She does redeem herself a bit with taking Olivia under her wing, and she seems to mature as the book goes on. Until Brandon comes back into the picture.
This love triangle also got on my nerves. I mean, I'm with Sarah's grandmother in thinking that Chris was the obvious choice. He was sweet, and kind, and shared her faith, and took in his niece. But Brandon, her ex-boyfriend comes back, feeds her some crap about how he loves her, and she falls for it. That wasn't the part that bothered me, necessarily. It was that she should have had some confidence in her new found independence after escaping from under his oppressive thumb (not abusive…more like stifling creativity) the first time. I think the author was trying to write a strong, independent character in Sarah, but it didn't really come through.
The redeeming parts though! Definitely Chris and Olivia. Chris is going through a lot, but he doesn't let it stop him from caring about other people, especially Olivia. The way he cared for her and loved her was just so sweet. And although he is frustrated, he doesn't assert himself as a dictator, which he easily could have done, being his restaurant. Instead, he listened to his employees, and was willing to compromise with them.
Olivia will just break your heart. The poor girl has been through so much, and is so bitter, you forget she's only seven. And while all her problems can't be fixed by the end of the book, there is a lot of change in her. Chris and Olivia were the main thing that kept me so interested, enough to keep going.
Sarah's grandmother was another redeeming part. She was so sweet and caring, even if she was a bit biased toward Chris ;) The rest of the townspeople, with their meddlesome ways, will keep you on your toes and make you laugh.
So do I recommend this book? If this is your usual type of book, then yes. I think you will enjoy it. If it isn't what you usually read, it might be better to hold back. I know most people won't have the issues with Sarah that I did, so take from that what you will.
I received a copy from the publisher, this did not affect my honest opinion.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads
Now, I will say, I didn't read the first book in the series. But as this was one of those series where the MC's of the first book only make an appearance, and there are all new MC's, I didn't have any issues. There may have been more family background, but nothing vital was missing.
Chris has moved to the little town of Last Chance. He has bought the local diner, and had plans to change things up a bit. He never imagined that he would face such opposition from the people of the town. He also never imagined his sister would leave her 7-year-old, Olivia, with him. The poor guy has hands full trying to run a sinking diner, and now care for a little girl when he has no clue how to do either.
Sarah has moved back after being away at college. After breaking things off with her long-time boyfriend, she just wants a place to refresh, a place where things never change. Except, she finds out that not only is there a new guy in town, he's trying to change things up.
There was no excuse for Sarah to treat Chris the way she did, and that was really set the tone for how I felt about her. She comes back to town, finds out Chris might want to make some changes (additions, really) to the menu at the Dip 'N Dine, and treats him so rudely. …what? I just didn't understand. And then yeah, the poor dude had a very obvious crush on Sarah, but she continues to be rude and embarrass him. She does redeem herself a bit with taking Olivia under her wing, and she seems to mature as the book goes on. Until Brandon comes back into the picture.
This love triangle also got on my nerves. I mean, I'm with Sarah's grandmother in thinking that Chris was the obvious choice. He was sweet, and kind, and shared her faith, and took in his niece. But Brandon, her ex-boyfriend comes back, feeds her some crap about how he loves her, and she falls for it. That wasn't the part that bothered me, necessarily. It was that she should have had some confidence in her new found independence after escaping from under his oppressive thumb (not abusive…more like stifling creativity) the first time. I think the author was trying to write a strong, independent character in Sarah, but it didn't really come through.
The redeeming parts though! Definitely Chris and Olivia. Chris is going through a lot, but he doesn't let it stop him from caring about other people, especially Olivia. The way he cared for her and loved her was just so sweet. And although he is frustrated, he doesn't assert himself as a dictator, which he easily could have done, being his restaurant. Instead, he listened to his employees, and was willing to compromise with them.
Olivia will just break your heart. The poor girl has been through so much, and is so bitter, you forget she's only seven. And while all her problems can't be fixed by the end of the book, there is a lot of change in her. Chris and Olivia were the main thing that kept me so interested, enough to keep going.
Sarah's grandmother was another redeeming part. She was so sweet and caring, even if she was a bit biased toward Chris ;) The rest of the townspeople, with their meddlesome ways, will keep you on your toes and make you laugh.
So do I recommend this book? If this is your usual type of book, then yes. I think you will enjoy it. If it isn't what you usually read, it might be better to hold back. I know most people won't have the issues with Sarah that I did, so take from that what you will.
I received a copy from the publisher, this did not affect my honest opinion.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads
May 15, 2014
I recently read Welcome to Last Chance and fell in love with the small town and the people of Last Chance, New Mexico. So, I was very excited to read the second book in the series. I was not disappointed. If you have not read the first book in the series, don’t worry, you won’t be lost. One More Last Chance can definitely stand alone. But I am glad I have read both books. Each one is very good.
In One More Last Chance, Sarah Cooley has come home after college and is ready to start her teaching career. She is looking forward to things being the same in her small home town. She is very resistant to change. Chris Reed is new to Last Chance. He has purchased the town’s diner and hopes to make changes that will put the eatery on the map.
I enjoyed reading about Sarah’s growth in this book. She has to realize that life is always full of change, and that it is not necessarily a bad thing. She also has big relationship decisions to make. I found Sarah to be a very interesting character. She is strong in many ways, but she struggles with knowing her own heart’s desires.
Chris is a wonderful character. He is so caring and loving toward his niece, and even toward his wayward sister. He is able to be firm about things with his sister, without being cruel. I really enjoyed watching Chris become a vital part of this small town. He shows incredible patience toward Sarah as she tries to discern God’s plan for her life. One More Last Chance was a very enjoyable book to read and I really look forward to the next in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
In One More Last Chance, Sarah Cooley has come home after college and is ready to start her teaching career. She is looking forward to things being the same in her small home town. She is very resistant to change. Chris Reed is new to Last Chance. He has purchased the town’s diner and hopes to make changes that will put the eatery on the map.
I enjoyed reading about Sarah’s growth in this book. She has to realize that life is always full of change, and that it is not necessarily a bad thing. She also has big relationship decisions to make. I found Sarah to be a very interesting character. She is strong in many ways, but she struggles with knowing her own heart’s desires.
Chris is a wonderful character. He is so caring and loving toward his niece, and even toward his wayward sister. He is able to be firm about things with his sister, without being cruel. I really enjoyed watching Chris become a vital part of this small town. He shows incredible patience toward Sarah as she tries to discern God’s plan for her life. One More Last Chance was a very enjoyable book to read and I really look forward to the next in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review, which I have given.
You can read this review on my blog at:
http://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.co...
May 11, 2014
Sarah Cooley has returned to her hometown of Last Chance, New Mexico as a new 2nd grade teacher. She's thrilled to be back in Last Chance because nothing ever changes there. Yet, unknown to Sarah, change is coming. Chris Reed is the new owner of the Dip-n-Dine diner and would love to change things on the menu. Yet everything that he tries is consistently vetoed by his cook.When he suddenly finds himself caring for his seven year old niece, he comes to realize that sometimes change is good.
This book had the feel of a typical small town. It seemed to just kind of gently flow along. I'm not saying that it was slow moving, because I read this in a day and a half, but that it just felt like a small town. I loved the townspeople. I loved how they'd come together to welcome someone into the community and to help out when things needed it. I loved how Chris wanted to change things, slowly. I did feel that Sarah was a little too resistant to change, but as the book went along, she got better.
Overall, this would be a good summer read. I enjoyed it. I'm looking forward to the next one.
I received this book for free from Revell books for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of women's fiction, Becky Wade, Melissa Tagg, Irene Hannon
Rating - 4 stars
This book had the feel of a typical small town. It seemed to just kind of gently flow along. I'm not saying that it was slow moving, because I read this in a day and a half, but that it just felt like a small town. I loved the townspeople. I loved how they'd come together to welcome someone into the community and to help out when things needed it. I loved how Chris wanted to change things, slowly. I did feel that Sarah was a little too resistant to change, but as the book went along, she got better.
Overall, this would be a good summer read. I enjoyed it. I'm looking forward to the next one.
I received this book for free from Revell books for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of women's fiction, Becky Wade, Melissa Tagg, Irene Hannon
Rating - 4 stars
July 2, 2014
This second book in the A Place to Call Home series is just as incredible as the first! And we're right back in Last Chance, New Mexico with the same collection of well-meaning town busy bodies who don't know the meaning of the word 'no'. They just bulldoze their way through any situation with enough love to make up for their lack of finesse. I want to live in Last Chance!
And everyone needs a grandmother like Elizabeth. Spunky and gracious and full of unconditional love. There are life lessons to be learned just reading about Sarah's grandmother.
I love the fresh angle of small-town girl wanting to come home after college. She comes back for her first teaching assignment basking in the glory of how unchanged Last Chance remains. Sarah has a problem with change. Unfortunately our hero, Chris, is full of plans to instigate change. Talk about a clash of wills! Sarah is prejudiced right from the very start while poor Chris is royally smitten.
And if that isn't complicated enough there's a gut-wrenching secondary plot that will pull at your heartstrings. One More Last Chance is a beautiful celebration of embracing change in order to live life to the fullest.
*My thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
And everyone needs a grandmother like Elizabeth. Spunky and gracious and full of unconditional love. There are life lessons to be learned just reading about Sarah's grandmother.
I love the fresh angle of small-town girl wanting to come home after college. She comes back for her first teaching assignment basking in the glory of how unchanged Last Chance remains. Sarah has a problem with change. Unfortunately our hero, Chris, is full of plans to instigate change. Talk about a clash of wills! Sarah is prejudiced right from the very start while poor Chris is royally smitten.
And if that isn't complicated enough there's a gut-wrenching secondary plot that will pull at your heartstrings. One More Last Chance is a beautiful celebration of embracing change in order to live life to the fullest.
*My thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 14, 2014
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
This is actually the second book in a series, but it is very easily a stand along book. I have not read the first book and I did not feel that I had missed anything important to this story.
Sarah is a recent college grad who has returned to her hometown of Last Chance to begin her teaching career. One of the first people she meets when she returns home is Chris, the new owner of (apparently the only) restaurant in town. Of course Sarah catches Chris' attention, but Sarah has Brandon to deal with - her baggage from college.
Grandma is one of my favorite characters in this book. Sarah's grandma lives just a few houses down and is determined to look after Sarah and make sure she behaves in the appropriate manner - even if Grandma's version of appropriate is a little outdated.
Things are complicated when Chris' niece arrives in town, as well as the arrival of Brandon for a visit. Of course everything works itself out in the end!
I really enjoyed this book and found it to be an easy but fun read. The second in the series comes out in 2015 and I am looking forward to reading it as well. Overall, I would recommend this book.
This is actually the second book in a series, but it is very easily a stand along book. I have not read the first book and I did not feel that I had missed anything important to this story.
Sarah is a recent college grad who has returned to her hometown of Last Chance to begin her teaching career. One of the first people she meets when she returns home is Chris, the new owner of (apparently the only) restaurant in town. Of course Sarah catches Chris' attention, but Sarah has Brandon to deal with - her baggage from college.
Grandma is one of my favorite characters in this book. Sarah's grandma lives just a few houses down and is determined to look after Sarah and make sure she behaves in the appropriate manner - even if Grandma's version of appropriate is a little outdated.
Things are complicated when Chris' niece arrives in town, as well as the arrival of Brandon for a visit. Of course everything works itself out in the end!
I really enjoyed this book and found it to be an easy but fun read. The second in the series comes out in 2015 and I am looking forward to reading it as well. Overall, I would recommend this book.
November 28, 2024
I was hoping I would enjoy the second book in the series more than the first, but I was disappointed to discover that the author's writing style just isn't the right fit for me. I normally gravitate towards small-town romance, but the perspective of the two main characters was somewhat shallow, and I didn't see much growth in the first quarter of the book, making me lose interest swiftly. Sarah is sentimental and embraces her small community, to the point of being exclusionary, judgemental, and just plain mean to newcomer Chris- with no apparent justification other than he's "a big doofus." Admittedly I had difficulty relating to her. Chris has dreams for his newly acquired restaurant, but his attempts at change or improvement are met with resistance. His restaurant and social challenges, combined with his worry over his young niece suffering from neglect, brought a sense of disheartenment as I read.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
March 12, 2025
One More Last Chance
A Novel
by Cathleen Armstrong
Pub DateMay 06 2014
Revell
Christian/Women’s Fiction
I am reviewing a copy of One More Last Chance through Revell and Netgalley:
Sarah Cooley decided to return to Last Chance, New Mexico, because it never changes. A bad engagement to a man who wants to change everything about her leaves Sarah more than ready for a town whose motto is, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
In contrast, Chris Reed wants nothing more than to bring some change to the small town. He's shaking things up at the Dip 'n' Dine to attract people from all over the Southwest.
Sarah and Chris might not have expected the winds of change to blow into Last Chance.
She invites readers back to Last Chance for a soul-searching, romantic story of two people navigating small-town life with the same evocative writing and fascinating characters that won fans of her debut novel.
I give One More Last Chance five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
A Novel
by Cathleen Armstrong
Pub DateMay 06 2014
Revell
Christian/Women’s Fiction
I am reviewing a copy of One More Last Chance through Revell and Netgalley:
Sarah Cooley decided to return to Last Chance, New Mexico, because it never changes. A bad engagement to a man who wants to change everything about her leaves Sarah more than ready for a town whose motto is, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
In contrast, Chris Reed wants nothing more than to bring some change to the small town. He's shaking things up at the Dip 'n' Dine to attract people from all over the Southwest.
Sarah and Chris might not have expected the winds of change to blow into Last Chance.
She invites readers back to Last Chance for a soul-searching, romantic story of two people navigating small-town life with the same evocative writing and fascinating characters that won fans of her debut novel.
I give One More Last Chance five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
March 1, 2025
Another Last Chance
The Reed's, Chris, the chef and owner of only Restaurant in Last Chance, Olivia, his seven year old niece, Kaitlyn, his irresponsible sister. Sarah is Elizabeth's Granddaughter. Now there are others you will meet as you read this book and most of them are like family. You will like some and some you might have to think about. You will find out what Lauren and Ray are up to, and find out how Ray's brother is doing You are in for a shock. I think this book is good for all ages. It has heart break, love, new beginnings, the end of old relationships and putting lives back together. This is in the series, Last Chance and although it is a small forgotten town, you will love the story.
The Reed's, Chris, the chef and owner of only Restaurant in Last Chance, Olivia, his seven year old niece, Kaitlyn, his irresponsible sister. Sarah is Elizabeth's Granddaughter. Now there are others you will meet as you read this book and most of them are like family. You will like some and some you might have to think about. You will find out what Lauren and Ray are up to, and find out how Ray's brother is doing You are in for a shock. I think this book is good for all ages. It has heart break, love, new beginnings, the end of old relationships and putting lives back together. This is in the series, Last Chance and although it is a small forgotten town, you will love the story.
June 15, 2017
Another excellent book. A day in the life of Last Chance.
A wonderful story about how some places never appear to change, yet they do in a constant stream of time. Sarah returns to Last Chance running away from someone and running to a familiar place. She learns the truth about her past relationship with Brandon, and with a little guidance she learns the truth about her future. GOD has a way of letting you know when you're with the right person. Sarah learns to listen to that still small voice.
A wonderful story about how some places never appear to change, yet they do in a constant stream of time. Sarah returns to Last Chance running away from someone and running to a familiar place. She learns the truth about her past relationship with Brandon, and with a little guidance she learns the truth about her future. GOD has a way of letting you know when you're with the right person. Sarah learns to listen to that still small voice.
January 22, 2020
So far the two main females in this series have driven me nuts. I find it really hard to get completely drawn in because of their attitudes. A lot of really annoying characters in this book but the story was good enough that I didn't give up (although I did skim quickly through the end). A peek at the next book tells me the next female is just as rude and spoiled and selfish as the last two and will probably not read it.
March 26, 2025
I kept trying to figure out if this book was the 2nd in the series. Why weren’t any of the characters from the 1st book in this one? Disappointing. Although I enjoyed the book, it was not at all ass good as the first book. I didn’t really care for Sarah as much as I could have and I also felt like Chris didn’t come off all that appealing. Thought he would be one part of the church choir too. That seemed like an unfinished plot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2017
I suppose I should have read book #1 first. But that did not pose a problem, really. I enjoyed the visit to Last Chance, New Mexico. A fun read with intriguing characters. If you like lite fiction, this might be the book for you.
June 27, 2019
Love this series
The second book in this series, is just as good as the first. You really do fall in love with Last Chance and its inhabitants. Now I'm off to buy and devour the next book in the series
The second book in this series, is just as good as the first. You really do fall in love with Last Chance and its inhabitants. Now I'm off to buy and devour the next book in the series
September 4, 2017
Really enjoyable read :)
January 18, 2020
Everyone needs another Last Chance
Sarah needed to come home. Chris needed to make the diner his. Olivia needed stability. They found it all in Last Chance
Sarah needed to come home. Chris needed to make the diner his. Olivia needed stability. They found it all in Last Chance
May 20, 2022
I read this series out of order so I knew the basic ending of this book and I still found it an enjoyable read. The characters are vivid without over describing and all have believabl
May 9, 2014
Present Day - Last Chance, New Mexico
"...If you end the Lord's Day more tired than you began it, you might need to rethink the way you spend it." -Elizabeth
This is book two in the 'A Place to Call Home' series and it's about Sarah Cooley and Chris Reed. Sarah had recently returned to her hometown of Last Chance after graduating college and breaking it off with Brandon, the guy she had been dating since her sophomore year. Brandon was controlling and always making her decisions for her and Sarah knew it was time to take her life back. Now she is teaching second grade at the local elementary school, living on her own and finding out what life could be. She hates change and that's exactly what Chris Reed is aiming for... Change. But she soon realizes that change is just what she needs. It was great to watch Sarah come into her own without Brandon making all the decisions for her. She really blossomed as a character but she was very indecisive. Many times I wanted to shake her and tell her to make her mind up already! But I loved her as a character and hope to see more of her in the next book.
Chris Reed is one of my favorite characters. He is the new owner of the Dip 'n' Dine restaurant and he has a very hard time fitting in at first because he wants to change things a little and folks aren't very accepting in the beginning. Chris has a lot on his plate with the new diner, his niece Olivia (she will melt your heart) and his sister Kaitlyn but he handles it well and I think that's one of the reason I like him so much. Kaitlyn had Olivia at a very young age and is going through a stage where she wants to have the fun she had missed out on when she was younger. Olivia came to live with Chris and, with the help of Sarah and her grandmother Elizabeth, Olivia changes drastically. My heart went out to this little girl for only life she had ever known.
Oddly enough, Sarah's grandmother Elizabeth is my favorite character. She is always ready with cookies and great advice. She is exactly as a grandmother should be and I warmed up to her very quickly. Brandon is probably my least favorite character in a romance book EVER. He is a very smooth, slick talker. He is always doing something and then lying to make it look like something it isn't. Don't even get me started. I did, however, love the town of Last Chance and it's citizens. Carlos the cook at the Dip 'n' Dine who was adamant about his kitchen and his menu, Juanita the waitress who can't even whisper without the entire diner hearing and Sarah's friend Megan who talks so much that Sarah simply tuned her out until she was finished (reminds me of my sister!). Last Chance is an adorable little town and One More Last Chance is a coming home, inspirational romance that will make you feel good about reading it. It's loaded with endearing characters, has a very strong storyline and Christian overtones that don't over take the story. I really enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to going back and reading book one and then moving on to book three. You don't have to read the books in order but getting to know the characters from the beginning always adds to the story for me. I'll be watching for new releases from Cathleen Armstrong as she has now been added to my list of favorites. Highly recommended for contemporary romance lovers!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review. The opinions expressed are mine alone. I received no monetary compensation for this review.
"...If you end the Lord's Day more tired than you began it, you might need to rethink the way you spend it." -Elizabeth
This is book two in the 'A Place to Call Home' series and it's about Sarah Cooley and Chris Reed. Sarah had recently returned to her hometown of Last Chance after graduating college and breaking it off with Brandon, the guy she had been dating since her sophomore year. Brandon was controlling and always making her decisions for her and Sarah knew it was time to take her life back. Now she is teaching second grade at the local elementary school, living on her own and finding out what life could be. She hates change and that's exactly what Chris Reed is aiming for... Change. But she soon realizes that change is just what she needs. It was great to watch Sarah come into her own without Brandon making all the decisions for her. She really blossomed as a character but she was very indecisive. Many times I wanted to shake her and tell her to make her mind up already! But I loved her as a character and hope to see more of her in the next book.
Chris Reed is one of my favorite characters. He is the new owner of the Dip 'n' Dine restaurant and he has a very hard time fitting in at first because he wants to change things a little and folks aren't very accepting in the beginning. Chris has a lot on his plate with the new diner, his niece Olivia (she will melt your heart) and his sister Kaitlyn but he handles it well and I think that's one of the reason I like him so much. Kaitlyn had Olivia at a very young age and is going through a stage where she wants to have the fun she had missed out on when she was younger. Olivia came to live with Chris and, with the help of Sarah and her grandmother Elizabeth, Olivia changes drastically. My heart went out to this little girl for only life she had ever known.
Oddly enough, Sarah's grandmother Elizabeth is my favorite character. She is always ready with cookies and great advice. She is exactly as a grandmother should be and I warmed up to her very quickly. Brandon is probably my least favorite character in a romance book EVER. He is a very smooth, slick talker. He is always doing something and then lying to make it look like something it isn't. Don't even get me started. I did, however, love the town of Last Chance and it's citizens. Carlos the cook at the Dip 'n' Dine who was adamant about his kitchen and his menu, Juanita the waitress who can't even whisper without the entire diner hearing and Sarah's friend Megan who talks so much that Sarah simply tuned her out until she was finished (reminds me of my sister!). Last Chance is an adorable little town and One More Last Chance is a coming home, inspirational romance that will make you feel good about reading it. It's loaded with endearing characters, has a very strong storyline and Christian overtones that don't over take the story. I really enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to going back and reading book one and then moving on to book three. You don't have to read the books in order but getting to know the characters from the beginning always adds to the story for me. I'll be watching for new releases from Cathleen Armstrong as she has now been added to my list of favorites. Highly recommended for contemporary romance lovers!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest review. The opinions expressed are mine alone. I received no monetary compensation for this review.
January 14, 2017
Love the characters and storylines.
November 24, 2014
Sarah is not a character that’s difficult to figure out. Things have not gone the way she wanted in her love life; she’s been hurt, she’s disillusioned, and she feels lonely so now she just want the security, love and assurance of home. Haven’t we all felt the same way at some point? Chris, however, wants change, well, at least change a few things around the Dip ‘n’ Dine; maybe add a new plate to the menu, but he soon finds out the towns’ people are pretty much as stubborn and as completely against change as Sarah.
But Sarah is a bit of a contradiction. She sees herself, and we see her too, as strong, capable, smart and independent. But once her ex-fiancé Brandon reappears, she’s different, almost clingy not to him, but to the idea of him, hoping against hope and against reason, past experience and common sense. Everything about Brandon feels forced and phony which made me, as a reader, uncomfortable and desperate to get his part over with and continue on with strong, dependable, capable and hardworking Chris.
Chris is a very nice character. His heart is in the right place, as well as his priorities. He is a good man with a good enough heart to take into consideration his employee’s feelings even if he’s tired of yielding to their demands. He is caring and willing to take on the responsibility of helping his sister raise her daughter and trying to secure a better future for both. He is a great male lead where Sarah faults and fumbles.
And as good a character Chris is, the secondary characters, especially Elizabeth, Sarah’s grandmother, are better and more entertaining. The people of Last Chance are colorful, charming, fun and very interesting. Elizabeth in particular steals the book. She has spunk, strength, a strong faith and conviction, is independent (sometimes fiercely so) and commanding. She is smart, says what she wants, and is very sure of herself. In other words, she is everything Sarah fancies herself to be but is not when Brandon is around.
Although Sarah’s character is not a great female lead, and Chris is a good, solid character but not too interesting, the author has a way of writing the story and the characters that grabs the reader’s attention. Reading One More Last Chanced, I found myself turning pages faster than I expected, completely interested and invested in the story, wanting to know what happened next. It is smartly written, with good dialogues and a great small town setting. However, it is not a sweet romance. Actually, it’s not that much of a romance. The author spent so much time with Sarah and Brandon, that once Sarah got around to giving Chris a fair chance, the book was almost over and what was supposed to be a main part of the story, was done and over with too quickly. Not much time was given for a relationship to develop between them, which leaves the reader wondering if they really do care for each other.
This is the second book in the series but can be read alone. It is a great look into small town living, colorful and meddling characters that end up stealing your heart and a wise and smart grandmother who is a force to be reckoned with.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
But Sarah is a bit of a contradiction. She sees herself, and we see her too, as strong, capable, smart and independent. But once her ex-fiancé Brandon reappears, she’s different, almost clingy not to him, but to the idea of him, hoping against hope and against reason, past experience and common sense. Everything about Brandon feels forced and phony which made me, as a reader, uncomfortable and desperate to get his part over with and continue on with strong, dependable, capable and hardworking Chris.
Chris is a very nice character. His heart is in the right place, as well as his priorities. He is a good man with a good enough heart to take into consideration his employee’s feelings even if he’s tired of yielding to their demands. He is caring and willing to take on the responsibility of helping his sister raise her daughter and trying to secure a better future for both. He is a great male lead where Sarah faults and fumbles.
And as good a character Chris is, the secondary characters, especially Elizabeth, Sarah’s grandmother, are better and more entertaining. The people of Last Chance are colorful, charming, fun and very interesting. Elizabeth in particular steals the book. She has spunk, strength, a strong faith and conviction, is independent (sometimes fiercely so) and commanding. She is smart, says what she wants, and is very sure of herself. In other words, she is everything Sarah fancies herself to be but is not when Brandon is around.
Although Sarah’s character is not a great female lead, and Chris is a good, solid character but not too interesting, the author has a way of writing the story and the characters that grabs the reader’s attention. Reading One More Last Chanced, I found myself turning pages faster than I expected, completely interested and invested in the story, wanting to know what happened next. It is smartly written, with good dialogues and a great small town setting. However, it is not a sweet romance. Actually, it’s not that much of a romance. The author spent so much time with Sarah and Brandon, that once Sarah got around to giving Chris a fair chance, the book was almost over and what was supposed to be a main part of the story, was done and over with too quickly. Not much time was given for a relationship to develop between them, which leaves the reader wondering if they really do care for each other.
This is the second book in the series but can be read alone. It is a great look into small town living, colorful and meddling characters that end up stealing your heart and a wise and smart grandmother who is a force to be reckoned with.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
March 4, 2017
Liked it!
May 20, 2017
I am truly enjoying this series. I can't wait to see who comes into Last Chance in need of healing next. This book touched my heart as I can identify with poor little Olivia. Mrs. Armstrong paints a portrait of a small town everyone would want to call home with rich characters you find yourself falling in love with. Thank you...
*** SPOILER ALERT ***
The scene where Chris is speaking to Kaitlyn about becoming Olivia's legal guardian was desperately needed for my own personal healing. I truly hope this conversation was how it went when my grandparents became MY legal guardians. It made me see my own situation through different eyes & I believe I am finally able to offer forgiveness where it is needed. Praise God!
*** SPOILER ALERT ***
The scene where Chris is speaking to Kaitlyn about becoming Olivia's legal guardian was desperately needed for my own personal healing. I truly hope this conversation was how it went when my grandparents became MY legal guardians. It made me see my own situation through different eyes & I believe I am finally able to offer forgiveness where it is needed. Praise God!
May 2, 2014
About the Book:
Sarah Cooley has come home to Last Chance, New Mexico, for one reason–because it doesn’t change. After an engagement gone bad with a man who wanted to change everything about her, Sarah is more than ready for the town whose motto may as well be, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Chris Reed, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to spark some change in the little town. As the new owner of the Dip ‘n’ Dine, he’s shaking things up to draw folks from all over the Southwest into his restaurant.
As it turns out, the winds of change are blowing into Last Chance–just not in the ways that Sarah or Chris might expect.
With the same evocative writing and fascinating characters that won fans for her debut novel, Cathleen Armstrong invites readers back to Last Chance for a soul-searching, romantic story of two people navigating the twists and turns of small-town life.
About the Author:
Cathleen Armstrong lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband, Ed, and their corgi. Though she has been in California for many years now, her roots remain deep in New Mexico where she grew up and where much of her family still lives. After she and Ed raised three children, she returned to college and earned a BA in English. Her debut novel Welcome to Last Chance won the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Award for Women's Fiction. Learn more at www.cathleenarmstrong.com.
My Review:
Sarah is tired of change and tired of men, men that are trying to change her. So she heads back home to Last Chance, Mexico in the hopes that she can get a break from all these guys that want to change her. Nothing and I mean nothing bothers her more than that.
The new owner of the Dip 'n' Dine, Chris wants the complete opposite--change. He would like this town to liven up a bit. Of course, the town doesn't see things his way, they enjoy everything just the way it is. He is going to need some help if he is ever to convince the townspeople that change is needed and needed soon.
I love the down home country feel of this plot line. Each of the characters coming from humble beginnings are able to see life through to the end. Their honest character seeps through the pages into your heart as soon as you meet them! This series is full of life, love and family. I can't wait to see whats next!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Revell.
Sarah Cooley has come home to Last Chance, New Mexico, for one reason–because it doesn’t change. After an engagement gone bad with a man who wanted to change everything about her, Sarah is more than ready for the town whose motto may as well be, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Chris Reed, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to spark some change in the little town. As the new owner of the Dip ‘n’ Dine, he’s shaking things up to draw folks from all over the Southwest into his restaurant.
As it turns out, the winds of change are blowing into Last Chance–just not in the ways that Sarah or Chris might expect.
With the same evocative writing and fascinating characters that won fans for her debut novel, Cathleen Armstrong invites readers back to Last Chance for a soul-searching, romantic story of two people navigating the twists and turns of small-town life.
About the Author:
Cathleen Armstrong lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband, Ed, and their corgi. Though she has been in California for many years now, her roots remain deep in New Mexico where she grew up and where much of her family still lives. After she and Ed raised three children, she returned to college and earned a BA in English. Her debut novel Welcome to Last Chance won the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Genesis Award for Women's Fiction. Learn more at www.cathleenarmstrong.com.
My Review:
Sarah is tired of change and tired of men, men that are trying to change her. So she heads back home to Last Chance, Mexico in the hopes that she can get a break from all these guys that want to change her. Nothing and I mean nothing bothers her more than that.
The new owner of the Dip 'n' Dine, Chris wants the complete opposite--change. He would like this town to liven up a bit. Of course, the town doesn't see things his way, they enjoy everything just the way it is. He is going to need some help if he is ever to convince the townspeople that change is needed and needed soon.
I love the down home country feel of this plot line. Each of the characters coming from humble beginnings are able to see life through to the end. Their honest character seeps through the pages into your heart as soon as you meet them! This series is full of life, love and family. I can't wait to see whats next!
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Revell.
May 23, 2014
Sarah Cooley is happy to be home in Last Chance, New Mexico---a place where nothing ever changes---until she meets the new owner of the Dip 'n' Dine.
Chris Reed sees nothing wrong with shaking things up a bit if it will bring people into his diner. It's the residents of Last Chance, including Sarah, who insist on leaving well enough alone.
Some things never change ... and some things change you forever.
That tagline sums up the theme of One More Last Chance, the second book in Cathleen Armstrong's series A Place to Call Home. For the most part, the story provides a lighthearted, homey feel with a few quirky characters, like the waitress whose idea of a whisper is when the people outside can't hear what she's saying.
While Chris is struck stupid the moment he sees Sarah, she's not so impressed. After graduating from college and a disappointing relationship, all she wants is the familiarity of her small town and the anticipation of teaching at the elementary school. Chris and his new ideas represent an unwelcome change.
Chris is the type of man you want your daughter to marry. He's a little clumsy around Sarah, but his heart is so good I wanted to push her in front of him and say, "Get it together, girl!"
Sarah's excitement at being back home and on her own comes across in her determination to eat her way through every special on the Dip 'n' Dine menu and decorate her home with fifties castoffs. In the beginning she was a little too harsh toward Chris for me to truly like her, but her affection for her grandmother is sweet. And once Chris' seven-year-old niece comes on the scene, Sarah's true compassion shines.
I enjoyed reading this story, but thought the romance was a bit rushed at the end. It was as if Sarah made up her mind at the last minute. But One More Last Chance is well worth reading just to get to know the hero and the people of Last Chance, New Mexico.
A serious thread about family responsibility is woven throughout the novel and sets up the next book in the series. Hmmm ... I'm wondering who has the nerve to take on that heroine and her issues.
Disclosure of Material Connection: This book came to me free from the publisher, Revell, with the hope that I would mention it on this blog. There was no requirement for me to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Chris Reed sees nothing wrong with shaking things up a bit if it will bring people into his diner. It's the residents of Last Chance, including Sarah, who insist on leaving well enough alone.
Some things never change ... and some things change you forever.
That tagline sums up the theme of One More Last Chance, the second book in Cathleen Armstrong's series A Place to Call Home. For the most part, the story provides a lighthearted, homey feel with a few quirky characters, like the waitress whose idea of a whisper is when the people outside can't hear what she's saying.
While Chris is struck stupid the moment he sees Sarah, she's not so impressed. After graduating from college and a disappointing relationship, all she wants is the familiarity of her small town and the anticipation of teaching at the elementary school. Chris and his new ideas represent an unwelcome change.
Chris is the type of man you want your daughter to marry. He's a little clumsy around Sarah, but his heart is so good I wanted to push her in front of him and say, "Get it together, girl!"
Sarah's excitement at being back home and on her own comes across in her determination to eat her way through every special on the Dip 'n' Dine menu and decorate her home with fifties castoffs. In the beginning she was a little too harsh toward Chris for me to truly like her, but her affection for her grandmother is sweet. And once Chris' seven-year-old niece comes on the scene, Sarah's true compassion shines.
I enjoyed reading this story, but thought the romance was a bit rushed at the end. It was as if Sarah made up her mind at the last minute. But One More Last Chance is well worth reading just to get to know the hero and the people of Last Chance, New Mexico.
A serious thread about family responsibility is woven throughout the novel and sets up the next book in the series. Hmmm ... I'm wondering who has the nerve to take on that heroine and her issues.
Disclosure of Material Connection: This book came to me free from the publisher, Revell, with the hope that I would mention it on this blog. There was no requirement for me to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed above are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
May 21, 2014
Cathleen Armstrong in her new book, “One More Last Chance” Book Two in the A Place To Call Home series published by Revell introduces us to Sarah Cooley.
From the back cover: Some things never change…and some things change you forever.
Sarah Cooley has come home to Last Chance, New Mexico, for one reason–because it doesn’t change. After an engagement gone bad with a man who wanted to change everything about her, Sarah is more than ready for the town whose motto may as well be, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Chris Reed, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to spark some change in the little town. As the new owner of the Dip ‘n’ Dine, he’s shaking things up to draw folks from all over the Southwest into his restaurant.
As it turns out, the winds of change are blowing into Last Chance–just not in the ways that Sarah or Chris might expect.
With the same evocative writing and fascinating characters that won fans for her debut novel, Cathleen Armstrong invites readers back to Last Chance for a soul-searching, romantic story of two people navigating the twists and turns of small-town life.
I cannot help it I just like the name of this series, “A Place To Call Home”. And the name of this place is Last Chance, New Mexico. Together they bring to mind cozy, easy places and people because when you are home there is always another chance. What do you do when you desire a constant in your life while others are really working for change? Sarah has come home for the constant so that she can rebuild her fractured life. Chris wants the change and finds resistance not only from within but from the people he wants the changes for, including Sarah. Then there is the situation with his sister, Kaitlyn, and her daughter, Olivia. And then, of course, there is the romance. This book is all about relationships, good and bad, and how these relationships can affect those we come in contact with. All the characters are likable and Ms. Armstrong has a way of bringing you into the story and making the characters lives very real. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Some things never change…and some things change you forever.
Sarah Cooley has come home to Last Chance, New Mexico, for one reason–because it doesn’t change. After an engagement gone bad with a man who wanted to change everything about her, Sarah is more than ready for the town whose motto may as well be, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Chris Reed, on the other hand, wants nothing more than to spark some change in the little town. As the new owner of the Dip ‘n’ Dine, he’s shaking things up to draw folks from all over the Southwest into his restaurant.
As it turns out, the winds of change are blowing into Last Chance–just not in the ways that Sarah or Chris might expect.
With the same evocative writing and fascinating characters that won fans for her debut novel, Cathleen Armstrong invites readers back to Last Chance for a soul-searching, romantic story of two people navigating the twists and turns of small-town life.
I cannot help it I just like the name of this series, “A Place To Call Home”. And the name of this place is Last Chance, New Mexico. Together they bring to mind cozy, easy places and people because when you are home there is always another chance. What do you do when you desire a constant in your life while others are really working for change? Sarah has come home for the constant so that she can rebuild her fractured life. Chris wants the change and finds resistance not only from within but from the people he wants the changes for, including Sarah. Then there is the situation with his sister, Kaitlyn, and her daughter, Olivia. And then, of course, there is the romance. This book is all about relationships, good and bad, and how these relationships can affect those we come in contact with. All the characters are likable and Ms. Armstrong has a way of bringing you into the story and making the characters lives very real. I am so looking forward to the next book in this series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
May 19, 2014
As seen on my blog:
Hey, Folks!
I just finished reading Cathleen Armstrong's "One More Last Chance," book number two in the "A Place to Call Home" series. This title was preceded by 2013's "Welcome to Last Chance," which I offered my thoughts about in an earlier post on this site. Access to this particular novel was granted to me free of charge by the "Revell Reads" program. In exchange, I am to share my candid feedback with everyone looking at this.
Sarah Cooley came home from college after graduation to fulfill her lifelong dream and become a second grade teacher. After breaking up with a man who tried to change everything about her, the predictably of Last Chance, New Mexico, is just what she needs to settle her disquieted spirit. Everything is the same as it has always been, and that is just how she likes it. In walks Chris Reed, who has just purchased the Dip 'n' Dine. He has plans to put his new restaurant on the map, and the tired old fare everybody is used to won't cut it anymore. More than the menu is fixing to be altered, however. As Sarah begins to fall for Chris, she questions her judgment. Is he the man God has chosen for her? She's not sure, especially when her ex boyfriend, Brandon, shows up, promising reform and begging for a an opportunity to finally makes things right. Join the group in this enchanting place as they navigate life in a location where the whole town is aware of events happening in your situation almost before you are.
I enjoyed catching up with the inhabitants of this southwestern hamlet. It was almost like visiting old friends and meeting new ones as they came across the pages. During this journey. I found myself rooting for and agonizing with each of the characters as events unfolded. Nothing offensive exists within the prose, and I believe that it is appropriate for large meetings. Ages twelve years and beyond will get the most out of the Christian meaning in the tale. Once again, I suggest that those who appreciate Karen Kingsbury and Francine Rivers will welcome this new voice. My rating is a decisive five out of five stars. You will not regret spending time on this endeavor. Until we meet again...
Happy Reading,
Carolyn
Hey, Folks!
I just finished reading Cathleen Armstrong's "One More Last Chance," book number two in the "A Place to Call Home" series. This title was preceded by 2013's "Welcome to Last Chance," which I offered my thoughts about in an earlier post on this site. Access to this particular novel was granted to me free of charge by the "Revell Reads" program. In exchange, I am to share my candid feedback with everyone looking at this.
Sarah Cooley came home from college after graduation to fulfill her lifelong dream and become a second grade teacher. After breaking up with a man who tried to change everything about her, the predictably of Last Chance, New Mexico, is just what she needs to settle her disquieted spirit. Everything is the same as it has always been, and that is just how she likes it. In walks Chris Reed, who has just purchased the Dip 'n' Dine. He has plans to put his new restaurant on the map, and the tired old fare everybody is used to won't cut it anymore. More than the menu is fixing to be altered, however. As Sarah begins to fall for Chris, she questions her judgment. Is he the man God has chosen for her? She's not sure, especially when her ex boyfriend, Brandon, shows up, promising reform and begging for a an opportunity to finally makes things right. Join the group in this enchanting place as they navigate life in a location where the whole town is aware of events happening in your situation almost before you are.
I enjoyed catching up with the inhabitants of this southwestern hamlet. It was almost like visiting old friends and meeting new ones as they came across the pages. During this journey. I found myself rooting for and agonizing with each of the characters as events unfolded. Nothing offensive exists within the prose, and I believe that it is appropriate for large meetings. Ages twelve years and beyond will get the most out of the Christian meaning in the tale. Once again, I suggest that those who appreciate Karen Kingsbury and Francine Rivers will welcome this new voice. My rating is a decisive five out of five stars. You will not regret spending time on this endeavor. Until we meet again...
Happy Reading,
Carolyn
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews