Her Second Chance Christmas

by Isabella Bruno

Home for the holidays…

Or home for good?

A frightening diagnosis—and a subsequent breakup—forces marketing executive Penelope Shay to return to Cedar Ridge to find peace. But when she learns her beloved childhood home is at risk of being sold, she’ll do anything to save it—even if it means teaming up with Matthew Banks, her high school boyfriend. The plan is she’ll offer the contractor her marketing expertise on a project in exchange for his help to raise funds in a cookie contest. As the two work closely together, old feelings quickly reignite. But with the uncertainties of Penny’s health looming, is a future together possible?

From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Genres: Romance, Christian Fiction, Christmas, Love Inspired

208 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published September 30, 2025

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book started off well, I really liked Penny, the town has a lot of busy bodies. There was a few issues I did not like how they ended, the house, Grams recipe.

[Happily Ever After Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance

Her Second Chance Christmas is a standalone Christmas Romance bringing us Penelope and Matthew’s second-chance romance.

Matthew and Penny were high-school sweethearts, yet events and decisions pulled them apart. Recently, Penny has received a life-changing medical diagnosis, which has rocked her foundation, as it is the same condition that claimed her mother’s life. Her jerk of a boyfriend dumped her because of the condition, and her beloved Nana is selling the family home, a place that Penny always thought would be hers one day to continue the family legacy. To say that she’s in a spiral, spinning out of control, is an understatement.

She’s returning home for several reasons, but never expected to run into Matthew again. Her relationship with her brother has become a bit rocky, as he believes she just ran away and left him behind. The siblings will enter into a cookie contest with a prize that could solve both of their problems… if they win. Add one more thing to the ever-growing list of stress factors attacking her emotions right now.

I enjoyed Her Second Chance Christmas. Frankly, right now, Penny is a hot mess, and she’s on overload with different emotions being tossed at her from all sides. In addition to an emotional romance, there are several lessons included within this story that touched my heart. Penny is running… trouble is, problems don’t go away just because you’ve changed locations. They’re still there, constantly reminding us that they need to be dealt with.

Relationships change, people make mistakes, but when we take a stand, make amends, those relationships can be mended. I think what affected me the most, though, was Penny’s decision not to let those people who loved her, her brother, her grandmother, her newly rediscovered love for Matthew, know about how she’s medically in trouble. They, of course, feel wounded and hurt when her diagnosis becomes a reality. They could have leaned on each other, helped her… if they’d only known.

If you love a well-written, emotional second-chance romance, then Her Second Chance Christmas by Isabella Bruno is a perfect fit for you.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review, giving my personal opinion about this book.

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her Second Chance Christmas by Isabella Bruno
An Uplifting Inspirational Romance
Home for the holidays…
Or home for good?
A frightening diagnosis—and a subsequent breakup—forces marketing executive Penelope Shay to return to Cedar Ridge to find peace. But when she learns her beloved childhood home is at risk of being sold, she’ll do anything to save it—even if it means teaming up with Matthew Banks, her high school boyfriend. The plan is simple: she’ll offer the contractor her marketing expertise on a project in exchange for his help to raise funds in a cookie contest. As the two work closely together, old feelings quickly reignite. But with the uncertainties of Penny’s health looming, is a future together possible?
This is Penelope Shay's story.
This is Matthew Banks's story.
Penelope returns to her hometown of Cedar Ridge, Michigan.
Penelope left town after her mother died .
Good night, Mrs. Nesbitt.” The words barely had time to register before the man who’d said them collided with Penny. “Whoa, sorry! ”Penny stumbled as she tried not to fall over her luggage. Thankfully, two large hands reached out and pulled her close. “ Are you all right? ”That low voice sounded very familiar. The man stepped back just enough so that he could look at Penny, and her worst fears were confirmed. Matthew Banks.
My favorite quote is
It was like something out of a Christmas movie.
At least that’s how Penelope Shay felt as she slowly drove through a stretch of festively lit homes leading into Cedar Ridge, Michigan’s main strip. Between decorative wreaths hanging grandly on front doors, lit-up evergreens adorning lawns like gigantic ornaments, and more inflatable Santas than she could count, Penny didn’t know where to look first. Even the weather was getting in on the act, raining down fat, fluffy snowflakes that lightly dusted the ground, lending an even more wonderful feel to the otherwise Christmas-happy town.
I recommend this book.
Her Second Chance Christmas by Isabella Bruno is a 4 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Isabella Bruno .
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.

[Shari Summers · Rating 3 out of 5]

Her Second Chance Christmas is a sweet, cozy holiday read with heart. I’ll be honest—the first part of the book moved a little slowly for me, and I briefly debated whether to keep going. But I’m really glad I did, because the story truly comes together as it unfolds.

This is a Christmas romance centered on second chances, small-town charm, and the weight of a difficult medical diagnosis. The main character’s decision to carry that burden alone—trying to protect everyone she loves—creates much of the emotional tension, and it’s easy to understand her heart even when you don’t agree with her choices.

I enjoyed the characters and especially appreciated the tender, heartfelt moments sprinkled throughout the story. While the plot is fairly predictable, it still delivers exactly what you’d hope for in a Christmas romance: warmth, hope, and a satisfying, feel-good ending.

Overall, Her Second Chance Christmas is a good, fun holiday read—perfect if you’re looking for something sweet, comforting, and festive to curl up with during the Christmas season. 🎄📖

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

My rating system:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Absolutely loved it! I’d read it again… if my TBR pile weren’t already taller than me. Highly recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Really great read! Thoroughly enjoyed it and would happily recommend it to others.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ – Glad I read it! A solid read, and I might check out more from this author.
⭐️⭐️ – Just okay. Not terrible, but I kind of wish I’d picked something else.
⭐️ – Nope. Didn’t connect with it and wouldn’t recommend.

[Dali Castillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moving and Heartfelt

This is a wonderful, moving, and heartfelt story of Penelope and Matthew's reconnection, with plenty more woven into it.

Penelope is in search of peace after receiving a frightening diagnosis. However, peace eludes her when she finds out her family home will be sold, and she unexpectedly runs into Matthew, her former boyfriend. The irony is that Matthew's own search for peace is disrupted when he runs into Penelope. However, as they work side by side, they begin to deal with their roadblocks, and things start changing for each of them and their relationship.

Penelope and Matthew's story is one of romance, trust, forgiveness, and second chances. There are also some wonderful faith messages woven in, which include trusting God and His plan, as well as His love for us. These are not overdone, but they are flawlessly blended into the story in a way that makes one reflect while enjoying the other elements of the story. All of this makes for a beautiful, heartfelt story.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and voluntary.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Penny has been working in NYC as a marketing executive but following a serious break up and a frightening health diagnosis she returned to her small hometown, Cedar Ridge, only to find that her childhood home is going to be sold. She and Matthew, her high school boyfriend, reconnected and felt a strong attraction but they were cautious about starting a romance. I enjoyed watching the way Matthew had loved Penny through the many years they had been apart. I was a little frustrated with Penny, aka Pinkie because of her prolific blushing, who spent almost the entire book living in fear and wanting to hide her problems even from those closest to her but it was encouraging to see her gain a victory over her fear as she learned to trust God. If you enjoy faith-based, clean, small town romance then this book is for you. Gladly recommend! I received an ARC from the publisher. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.

[Anna Fowler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Four paw cozy, inspirational Christmas romance read. Simba just loved this book! I promise you will fall in love with the town of Cedar Ridge, and Penelope Shaw as she realizes the true meaning of coming home (not just for Christmas, but for good), and the value of family, friendship, and community. This story shows the importance of relationships and community in our walk with Christ, and how forgiveness is possible. I loved the interactions of the characters, and how their dialogue and growth presented truths of scripture in a new light for me. Please check out my full review at my blog take paws to read https://simbasbookreview.com/blog-posts/

I encourage everyone to take the time this holiday season to read this delightful, cozy Christmas romance. You will be glad you did.

I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC to read and review. All opinions are my own.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Penelope is dealing with a heart condition that got her reevaluating her life as it stands and goes to her hometown when she finds out her childhood home is being sold. She's only going to be here temporarily so there's no point in starting anything but while working on a project together her and her ex Matthew are now in close proximity during this holiday season as they raise money for a cookie contest.

If you like slow-paced small town reads that are kind of predictable but still enjoy that anyway then you will enjoy this one. It's actually great to read during this holiday season so I recommend picking it up soon. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and just seeing how everything progressed in the story I did find this book kind of predictable but still enjoyable there's not too much to say without giving anything away of what is here but if you want a holiday read that is clean has romance and has faith sprinkled throughout it you might want to check this one out.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Penelope Shay and Matthew Banks have a second chance, but there is uncertainty, in which one will open the door. The story isn't slow, but Penelope and Matthew are taking it slow, trying to find their footing. As they start working together on projects, they have lots of laughs, have fun together, but they each have something they have to work through. The story will take you on their journey, with how life unfolds for them, and how they navigate through everything that is going on, with challenges, faith, and they learn so much about themselves? The book has the Christmas spirit, the community that is there for them, but will they see what is right in front of them, I hope you read the book, it is amazing, and I learned something's about myself as I read this book.
I received an ARC from Love Inspired through NetGalley.

[Gina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Penelope moves back to her hometown after she ran away to New York after high school. Now, she is back home when some hard things happen in NY. She left behind her brother and boyfriend after high school while she was grieving the death of her mom. With health issues of her own, she runs back to her hometown to look for a new start. But, she is never far from the troubles and struggles she is running away from.

Her Nana is selling her childhood home, her brother needs her to show up as his partner for a cookie competition that has a lot on the line, and her ex boyfriend is still in the picture.

Most of the story Penelope is running away or holding off. I felt like the story was dragging but I was glad to see that it ended on a happy note.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Connie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Penny receives a life-changing diagnosis and her boyfriend promptly breaks up with her.  Penny subsequently returns to her hometown of Cedar Ridge, Michigan and runs into her high school boyfriend, Matthew.  They decide to work together on a project so that each of them can mutually benefit from their partnership and feelings start to develop again.  This book also centers around the familial ties between Penny and her brother and working on their relationship. 

This is a wonderful story about self-forgiveness and forgiveness from others, trusting in God, and reaffirming one's faith. Throw in a handful of other lively characters and this makes for a nice, quick, cozy read. 

Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. 

[Denise Schenk · Rating 3 out of 5]

Penelope Shay has returned to Cedar Ridge after a medical diagnosis and end of her relationship in NYC. Matthew Banks, her high school boyfriend is still in town and still interested in her. Penny left town after her mother died and now, she has the same diagnosis and just can't make herself share the information with her family. When she finds her nana is selling the family home, she wants to purchase the home. Matt is currently working in construction remodeling the store in town. Can she open up to Matt and her family about her health problems.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her Second Chance Christmas by Isabella Bruno

This was my first book by Isabella Bruno, and I really enjoyed it. It’s a second-chance romance set during the holiday season, following high school sweethearts who were pulled apart by past choices. After a breakup and a difficult diagnosis, Penelope returns home, and what unfolds is a heartfelt, entertaining story about love, resilience, and the magic of Christmas.

I’d definitely recommend this one to anyone who enjoys holiday romances. My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher. Review voluntarily given.

[Janice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isn't the cover pretty? If you like it, you will probably love the book, too! Penelope returns to her home at Cedar Ridge to help her brother. They agree to put the past behind and team together to try to win a cookie context, in order to win the money offered. However, she has a secret serious heart diagnosis, and her personality is somewhat shy and uncertain. She gets help from a former boyfriend, which leads her to self-discovery, with his patient and godly attitude. I'm glad I did not miss this book!

I read this book with permission from the publishers. The views expressed are my own.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

The cover is what drew me to Her Second Chance Christmas by Isabella Bruno (such a pretty scene). I found this holiday tale to be a fine story, but it was not what I expected. The story did not capture my attention and hold it. Penelope Shay spent most of the story evading people and situations. The story moved at a languid pace with it dragging in the middle (I found myself skimming). The three themes in the story are trust, forgiveness, and second chances. Faith messages are nicely woven into the tale with the most prominent being trusting God and His plan for our lives. I liked that Her Second Chance Christmas had a merry ending. Her Second Chance Christmas was a nice debut book.

[Kristin- Kristin's Bookstack · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute, emotion-filled romance! It was a quick read, perfect for the busy holiday season. I loved the characters and how they rallied around Penny in her time of need. I also loved the storyline and the message to trust in God because He always knows what is best for us. It was an inspiring and uplifting read!

Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Debbie Ballard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved reading the inspirational and amazing story. When Penny comes back home to help her brother, Andrew, in a baking contest and to have a heart operation, she sees her ex-boyfriend, Matthew again and tries to stop her feelings for him. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and a must read romance story.

[Jacqueline Johnston Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love these faith inspired books. The romance is sweet and heartwarming as is the wonderful writing. There is so much heart, love, forgiveness and grace woven throughout this Christmas story as well. The characters are genuine and loveable. A clever, sweet, romantic and hopeful second chance romance, delightful in every way! I recommend this and any of the Love Inspired books.

[K H · Rating 4 out of 5]

First time reading a book from this author.

I have to say that I wish that Penny would have said what was going on so much earlier. It kept me wondering when she would let everyone know.

I do have to say that overall I did enjoy this book.

[Tami Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

She's coming back to her hometown with a secret.
They had crushes on each other unknowingly years ago
Second chance
Overcoming loss
Critical medical issues
Trust issues

[Natalie Bruno · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a feel good book that encourages faith in God and His promises. I wanted to read it all in one sitting. The author keeps me engaged and I love Christmas themed books. Highly recommend it!

[Jackalyn]

Good, but could have used a good secretary to catch the typos and incomplete sentences.

[Margaret Yelton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her Second Chance Christmas by Isabella Bruno whom is a new author for me. A second chance romance set around the Christmas season. High school sweethearts which are torn apart from events and decisions that happened in the past. After a breakup and a frightening diagnosis Penelope heads back to familiar ground. What follows is an entertaining read. I would recommend this book to others.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher and I am leaving my review voluntarily.