What do you think?
Rate this book
The Viscount's Second Chance
Bound by love. Separated by duty. Reunited by grief.
Nora Allen never stopped loving Thomas, Viscount Bexton. He was her first love, her future...until tragedy forced her to choose between the man who held her heart and the friend who needed her most. Walking away from Thomas shattered her, but Nora told herself it was the only choice she had.
Nearly twenty years later, Thomas and Nora are reunited in heartbreak. Beth, Nora's dearest friend and Thomas's beloved sister, is gone...but not without leaving behind one last gift for them. Through a series of letters, she urges them on a search for a fabled Roman archway lost by time. Located somewhere in London's depths, it is said that those who stand in its shadow will be bound by everlasting love.
As they follow Beth's trail, the passion they once shared blazes to life, fierce and undeniable. Every stolen glance is heavy with unspoken words; every accidental touch, a spark ready to ignite. The years apart have done nothing to cool the fire between them, but it is also a reminder of what they lost.
Dare they believe in second chances? Or will the mythical arch remain just that--a legend never fulfilled?
A sweeping tale of love, loss, destiny, and a little bit of magic, this stirring historical romance will leave you believing in the power of true love.
The Viscount’s Second Chance is a spicy historical romance book releasing on the 31st March 2025 featuring the
❤️Second Chance Romance
❤️Both Mains Over 30
❤️Childhood Friends Grow Into Lovers
❤️First and Only Loves
The Lovers' Later In Life series is a collaboration of spicy historical romance authors and contains the following titles and release
🧡3rd The Earl’s Gamble (Class Difference Disabled Heroine)
💙17th The Countess’s Awakening by Lavinia Glen (Interracial Romance Overcoming Disability)
💜10th The Devil’s Bargain by Mihwa Lee (Enemies to Lovers Forced Marriage)
💚24th The Spinster’s Seduction by Terri Mackenzie (Friends to Lovers Bedroom Lessons)T
Nora Allen never stopped loving Thomas, Viscount Bexton. He was her first love, her future...until tragedy forced her to choose between the man who held her heart and the friend who needed her most. Walking away from Thomas shattered her, but Nora told herself it was the only choice she had.
Nearly twenty years later, Thomas and Nora are reunited in heartbreak. Beth, Nora's dearest friend and Thomas's beloved sister, is gone...but not without leaving behind one last gift for them. Through a series of letters, she urges them on a search for a fabled Roman archway lost by time. Located somewhere in London's depths, it is said that those who stand in its shadow will be bound by everlasting love.
As they follow Beth's trail, the passion they once shared blazes to life, fierce and undeniable. Every stolen glance is heavy with unspoken words; every accidental touch, a spark ready to ignite. The years apart have done nothing to cool the fire between them, but it is also a reminder of what they lost.
Dare they believe in second chances? Or will the mythical arch remain just that--a legend never fulfilled?
A sweeping tale of love, loss, destiny, and a little bit of magic, this stirring historical romance will leave you believing in the power of true love.
The Viscount’s Second Chance is a spicy historical romance book releasing on the 31st March 2025 featuring the
❤️Second Chance Romance
❤️Both Mains Over 30
❤️Childhood Friends Grow Into Lovers
❤️First and Only Loves
The Lovers' Later In Life series is a collaboration of spicy historical romance authors and contains the following titles and release
🧡3rd The Earl’s Gamble (Class Difference Disabled Heroine)
💙17th The Countess’s Awakening by Lavinia Glen (Interracial Romance Overcoming Disability)
💜10th The Devil’s Bargain by Mihwa Lee (Enemies to Lovers Forced Marriage)
💚24th The Spinster’s Seduction by Terri Mackenzie (Friends to Lovers Bedroom Lessons)T
- GenresSecond Chance
121 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2025
13 people are currently reading
27 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 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 2, 2025
3.5
Very spicy, very swoony, but the plot and angst was snoozy 🤷🏻♀️
Very spicy, very swoony, but the plot and angst was snoozy 🤷🏻♀️
March 16, 2025
There were things I liked and things I didn’t like.
I always enjoy a friends to lovers trope - especially a childhood friends to lovers trope. The relationship has depth and meaning beyond mere lust. That is certainly true here. I liked how Nora and Thomas developed a relationship based on proximity and genuine friendship.
I appreciated how the story spoke of sacrifice and love between friends. It was touching and moving. While circumstances were sad and grief-filled, they were real and meaningful.
What made me not like the story was the representation of unhealthy relationships. Nora made a sacrificial decision as an 18 year old girl and she never reconsidered the position until 15 years later. While I agree with and applaud sacrifice, this seemed too much as she didn’t even consider she made a decision for herself, Thomas, and Beth without communicating to all. Thomas said he loved her as a young man, but he never tried to help lead Nora gently to see that their relationship could work or even suggest again that they speak with Beth about it (for 15 years!) And then to find out that Beth suspected for years and would have been OK with it, but she failed to broach the subject because she “didn’t want to pry.” That’s just ridiculous and unhealthy. I realize this is fiction and not real life, but these things really colored my opinion of the story. It sucked a lot of the romance and feeling out of it for me. And I would like to acknowledge that I am sure the author did not intend for this to come off with unhealthy relationships. I think the intent was supposed to be sacrifice for friends and a second chance at love.
For some reason, I also had a hard time with the movement from the past to the future. Despite the description of physical changes of Thomas, I still pictured him as the young man. I can’t say why, but the time shift was hard for me to keep pinned in my brain (likely a ME problem.)
I did like that we learned more of legend of the Arch and why it was built. That story was beautiful and it would be fun to read a whole novel of that!
I always enjoy a friends to lovers trope - especially a childhood friends to lovers trope. The relationship has depth and meaning beyond mere lust. That is certainly true here. I liked how Nora and Thomas developed a relationship based on proximity and genuine friendship.
I appreciated how the story spoke of sacrifice and love between friends. It was touching and moving. While circumstances were sad and grief-filled, they were real and meaningful.
What made me not like the story was the representation of unhealthy relationships. Nora made a sacrificial decision as an 18 year old girl and she never reconsidered the position until 15 years later. While I agree with and applaud sacrifice, this seemed too much as she didn’t even consider she made a decision for herself, Thomas, and Beth without communicating to all. Thomas said he loved her as a young man, but he never tried to help lead Nora gently to see that their relationship could work or even suggest again that they speak with Beth about it (for 15 years!) And then to find out that Beth suspected for years and would have been OK with it, but she failed to broach the subject because she “didn’t want to pry.” That’s just ridiculous and unhealthy. I realize this is fiction and not real life, but these things really colored my opinion of the story. It sucked a lot of the romance and feeling out of it for me. And I would like to acknowledge that I am sure the author did not intend for this to come off with unhealthy relationships. I think the intent was supposed to be sacrifice for friends and a second chance at love.
For some reason, I also had a hard time with the movement from the past to the future. Despite the description of physical changes of Thomas, I still pictured him as the young man. I can’t say why, but the time shift was hard for me to keep pinned in my brain (likely a ME problem.)
I did like that we learned more of legend of the Arch and why it was built. That story was beautiful and it would be fun to read a whole novel of that!
October 7, 2025
This story…..is amazing. Tears flowing, hearts breaking and love abounding. Second chance, a favorite trope, gets me every time. Kelsey wrote a story that will tear you up and bring you hope. Nora and Thomas, what a couple. Putting them on my list of favorite couples.
April 17, 2025
Kelsey Swanson is a new author for me. I did my usual research on her and it seems she may be steamy. I know the other authors in this series are so I would imagine she would be too.
I really liked this book. It helped me forget for a bit as my husband is in the hospital and just had open heart bypass surgery. So it was nice to feel removed from the hospital room for a bit. I liked the characters, Nora and Thomas. I know it was the times, but sometimes the women of this era can be so frustrating. I appreciate Nora's loyalty to her friend but I think she took it a bit too far. Overall though I really liked this story. Sex was good. I will definitely read more of her books.
I really liked this book. It helped me forget for a bit as my husband is in the hospital and just had open heart bypass surgery. So it was nice to feel removed from the hospital room for a bit. I liked the characters, Nora and Thomas. I know it was the times, but sometimes the women of this era can be so frustrating. I appreciate Nora's loyalty to her friend but I think she took it a bit too far. Overall though I really liked this story. Sex was good. I will definitely read more of her books.
April 1, 2025
This was a very heartwarming and beautifully written childhood friend grown to lovers, and second chance at love is the fifth book in The Lovers' Later In Life series. The love of a best friend and her brother was very emotional and captivating. An illness never stopped the dreams and delightful times. It further enhanced the best in their lives. I really enjoyed this engaging and strongly emotional romance that had me laughing and crying depending on what was happening. The passionate and deel love that even overcame tragedy was magical, and the ending was perfect. I highly recommend reading!
June 8, 2025
Would you rather be a lover, or a best friend? Or both?
Nora & Thomas
She’s the neighbours girl – a baron’s youngest – who becomes fast friends with his fragile sister Beth when they bond over their love of books. He’s the protective big brother – a viscount – who provides the ladies with all the books they want.
As the years go by friendship turns into attraction and eventually love. But soon after he proposes, one of Beth’s episodes and a guilty conscience force Nora to choose between both siblings – and she chooses head over heart.
Two decades later, a funeral, an empty home and a quest to find the mysterious lover’s arch.
Can these two find their way back together again? He certainly hopes so, but will she let them?
They were each other’s first and only loves, and I struggled a little with how long it took her to realise she made a mistake. She sacrificed her own happiness for her best friend’s; an impulsive decision made by a naive young girl, but she grew into a sensible woman and I simply cannot fathom she never figured out she could have both, be both and be happy.
That said, this story was a fun read. It’s a beautiful engaging romance, and I loved how they picked up where they left off – these two are not prone to dramatics or rancour – and I won’t spoil it, but this man has a most surprising confession to make! He’s worth his weight in gold, even if I think he’s an idiot for staying away so long.
Their quest and how it came to be, was an entertaining twist – gotta love a ghost with good intentions – and so, as a whole, I found this a charming and witty read!
Nora & Thomas
She’s the neighbours girl – a baron’s youngest – who becomes fast friends with his fragile sister Beth when they bond over their love of books. He’s the protective big brother – a viscount – who provides the ladies with all the books they want.
As the years go by friendship turns into attraction and eventually love. But soon after he proposes, one of Beth’s episodes and a guilty conscience force Nora to choose between both siblings – and she chooses head over heart.
Two decades later, a funeral, an empty home and a quest to find the mysterious lover’s arch.
Can these two find their way back together again? He certainly hopes so, but will she let them?
They were each other’s first and only loves, and I struggled a little with how long it took her to realise she made a mistake. She sacrificed her own happiness for her best friend’s; an impulsive decision made by a naive young girl, but she grew into a sensible woman and I simply cannot fathom she never figured out she could have both, be both and be happy.
That said, this story was a fun read. It’s a beautiful engaging romance, and I loved how they picked up where they left off – these two are not prone to dramatics or rancour – and I won’t spoil it, but this man has a most surprising confession to make! He’s worth his weight in gold, even if I think he’s an idiot for staying away so long.
Their quest and how it came to be, was an entertaining twist – gotta love a ghost with good intentions – and so, as a whole, I found this a charming and witty read!
March 27, 2025
Thanks to the author for a copy of this novella and this is my freely given opinion.
This is, as far as I know, the last in the multi-author Lovers' Arch series... and I must say that I quite enjoyed the entire series and would love to see more. They are all connected by the legend of the Lovers' Arch, but what I really loved is that all the stories were also connected by the theme of more mature lovers. This is the case for the lovers in this story, and while it was a love story, it was a also tempered with a prominent sweet sad tone as well.
The story starts many years before, when Nora Allen was a child, brought by her mother to meet a friend and her daughter, Beth. Beth suffers from a seizure disorder, and because of the times, is greatly constrained by her disability, and both doted on and fretted over by her family. Nora becomes very close to her, and their friendship allows Beth to grow and explore as well. When she is witness to one of Beths' seizures, she becomes introduced to the older brother, Thomas, Viscount Bexton. The beginning of the story goes through Nora and Beth's friendship as they grow up, and then Nora's growing closeness to Thomas as they become young adults. Until one day, both Nora and Thomas are off together, and could not be found when Beth becomes ill, and Thomas and Beth's mother, in her fear, irrationally attacks Thomas and Nora for not being there for Beth. Nora, in her guilt, decides she must give up her growing relationship with Thomas, to be wholly available as a friend and support to Beth, despite Beth never asking for this.
Twenty years go by, and through it all, Nora and Beth stay steadfast friends, even living together in their spinsterhood. But tragedy finally does strike and Beth dies. But one of her last actions is to bring Thomas and Nora together in a posthumous quest she designs, for them to find the legendary Lover's Arch.
This is a second chance at love, childhood friends to lovers story that is quite bitter sweet. But a big flaw for me is the reasoning as to why Nora gave up her budding relationship with Thomas - which was to be a dedicated friend to Beth and not to throw her potential happiness and family in Beth's face since Beth would be unlikely to find love and family for herself. But Beth loved her brother and friend very much, and if she were a true friend, in her heart she would have wanted them to be happy, and she would have rejoiced in sharing their love and family as well - and Nora's decision also deprived Beth of that potential source of love, fulfillment and support as well. Also, there was never an acknowledgement or resolution of Beth and Thomas' mothers' unfounded and overwrought accusations and behaviour toward Thomas and Nora, the one that precipitated Nora's guilt and lead to her breaking things off with Thomas. Maybe she was upset, but to put the burden of Beth's safety and health on two youths like that was too much, and had such lasting consequences, and she was the adult of the situation, and there was a house full of adult servants who could be tasked with watching over her daughter as well. To burden Thomas and Nora, two youths, was unfair to them.
3.5 stars out of 5
This is, as far as I know, the last in the multi-author Lovers' Arch series... and I must say that I quite enjoyed the entire series and would love to see more. They are all connected by the legend of the Lovers' Arch, but what I really loved is that all the stories were also connected by the theme of more mature lovers. This is the case for the lovers in this story, and while it was a love story, it was a also tempered with a prominent sweet sad tone as well.
The story starts many years before, when Nora Allen was a child, brought by her mother to meet a friend and her daughter, Beth. Beth suffers from a seizure disorder, and because of the times, is greatly constrained by her disability, and both doted on and fretted over by her family. Nora becomes very close to her, and their friendship allows Beth to grow and explore as well. When she is witness to one of Beths' seizures, she becomes introduced to the older brother, Thomas, Viscount Bexton. The beginning of the story goes through Nora and Beth's friendship as they grow up, and then Nora's growing closeness to Thomas as they become young adults. Until one day, both Nora and Thomas are off together, and could not be found when Beth becomes ill, and Thomas and Beth's mother, in her fear, irrationally attacks Thomas and Nora for not being there for Beth. Nora, in her guilt, decides she must give up her growing relationship with Thomas, to be wholly available as a friend and support to Beth, despite Beth never asking for this.
Twenty years go by, and through it all, Nora and Beth stay steadfast friends, even living together in their spinsterhood. But tragedy finally does strike and Beth dies. But one of her last actions is to bring Thomas and Nora together in a posthumous quest she designs, for them to find the legendary Lover's Arch.
This is a second chance at love, childhood friends to lovers story that is quite bitter sweet. But a big flaw for me is the reasoning as to why Nora gave up her budding relationship with Thomas - which was to be a dedicated friend to Beth and not to throw her potential happiness and family in Beth's face since Beth would be unlikely to find love and family for herself. But Beth loved her brother and friend very much, and if she were a true friend, in her heart she would have wanted them to be happy, and she would have rejoiced in sharing their love and family as well - and Nora's decision also deprived Beth of that potential source of love, fulfillment and support as well. Also, there was never an acknowledgement or resolution of Beth and Thomas' mothers' unfounded and overwrought accusations and behaviour toward Thomas and Nora, the one that precipitated Nora's guilt and lead to her breaking things off with Thomas. Maybe she was upset, but to put the burden of Beth's safety and health on two youths like that was too much, and had such lasting consequences, and she was the adult of the situation, and there was a house full of adult servants who could be tasked with watching over her daughter as well. To burden Thomas and Nora, two youths, was unfair to them.
3.5 stars out of 5
March 31, 2025
The final book of “Later in Life” series is the story of Eleanor (Nora) and Thomas reconnecting after years of being apart due to the mutual love of Beth, Thomas’s sister who is also Nora’s dearest friend.
At twelve, Nora’s love was for books. Her mother took her to their neighbouring estate of Viscount Bexton to meet the sister of the viscount, Beth, who was another avid reader because she couldn’t exert herself due to being very fragile. The two young girls become as close as sisters with their passion for books.
Thomas, Viscount Bexton loves his younger sister and does everything he can to keep her happy in her isolated world. He’s happy Beth has a best friend who shares her love for books. He’s a very young viscount at seventeen.
When Nora was seventeen and Thomas twenty one, they fall in love but Nora stays by Beth’s side as they become adults; keeping her company, sharing a house with her and making adventures through the books they read. Thomas keeps a respectful distance between them, visiting Beth when Nora isn’t there to avoid seeing her.
Eighteen years later, Nora and Thomas meet again in tragic circumstances. They are given a task by Beth to go on a treasure hunt to find an elusive arch called The Lover’s Arch. She has left clues for them to help find the Arch and maybe the love they had for each other from so long ago.
This was a bittersweet read, full of hope and love but also sadness at the time, dreams and love that were lost between Thomas and Nora.
I felt for them, especially when they find out that Beth realised they loved each other for all those years. I feel if Beth had been honest with them years ago, Thomas and Nora’s love could have overcome any fears Nora had for Beth’s happiness.
The treasure hunt for the Lover’s Arch was fun to read and there’s steamy scenes that are well written. The plot is perfectly paced, didn’t feel rushed or dragged at all. I read it in one sitting. I’m so glad Thomas and Nora finally found their happiness together. There’s quite a lot packed in this novella. I really enjoyed this book.
I received a special copy from the author. I’m voluntarily leaving this review.
At twelve, Nora’s love was for books. Her mother took her to their neighbouring estate of Viscount Bexton to meet the sister of the viscount, Beth, who was another avid reader because she couldn’t exert herself due to being very fragile. The two young girls become as close as sisters with their passion for books.
Thomas, Viscount Bexton loves his younger sister and does everything he can to keep her happy in her isolated world. He’s happy Beth has a best friend who shares her love for books. He’s a very young viscount at seventeen.
When Nora was seventeen and Thomas twenty one, they fall in love but Nora stays by Beth’s side as they become adults; keeping her company, sharing a house with her and making adventures through the books they read. Thomas keeps a respectful distance between them, visiting Beth when Nora isn’t there to avoid seeing her.
Eighteen years later, Nora and Thomas meet again in tragic circumstances. They are given a task by Beth to go on a treasure hunt to find an elusive arch called The Lover’s Arch. She has left clues for them to help find the Arch and maybe the love they had for each other from so long ago.
This was a bittersweet read, full of hope and love but also sadness at the time, dreams and love that were lost between Thomas and Nora.
I felt for them, especially when they find out that Beth realised they loved each other for all those years. I feel if Beth had been honest with them years ago, Thomas and Nora’s love could have overcome any fears Nora had for Beth’s happiness.
The treasure hunt for the Lover’s Arch was fun to read and there’s steamy scenes that are well written. The plot is perfectly paced, didn’t feel rushed or dragged at all. I read it in one sitting. I’m so glad Thomas and Nora finally found their happiness together. There’s quite a lot packed in this novella. I really enjoyed this book.
I received a special copy from the author. I’m voluntarily leaving this review.
March 30, 2025
A bittersweet ending to a series that I really enjoyed!
Brought together by the love they both had for another, Nora and Thomas formed a friendship that slowly grew into first love and eventually first lovers. I settled into Part One and thought "how can this sweet, beautiful, pure, young love ever go wrong?!" It was the stuff of dreams! Until, what I chalk it up to, their youth led to poor decisions and a gut wrenching breakup bringing us to Part Two.
Eighteen years later (yes! 18!) they meet again under the worst of circumstances, both lonely and heartbroken. Their feelings for each other are still there, just as strong as ever. They don't deny them, can't deny them, but are confused about what to do with these feelings now that their reason for not being together is no longer an issue. For now, they decide not to decide while they work together to honor Nora's closest friend and Thomas's beloved sisters last wish — find the legendary Lover's Arch.
Oh, Kelsey you sure know how to keep me on the edge! I struggled a bit with their reasoning and all the wasted time but who doesn't regret decisions made when they're young?! What will make this book memorable is the emotion poured into it with excellent writing, sexual tension, realistic dialogue and a heart-wrenching plot. Nora and Thomas don't find their HEA easily which adds just enough complexity to keep it interesting. It's a beautiful tale showing how grief and guilt can never outweigh true love.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Four explicit encounters plus a couple alluded to scenes that include loss of virginity together and learning as they go.
I was honored to receive an early copy from the author (thank you!) All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Brought together by the love they both had for another, Nora and Thomas formed a friendship that slowly grew into first love and eventually first lovers. I settled into Part One and thought "how can this sweet, beautiful, pure, young love ever go wrong?!" It was the stuff of dreams! Until, what I chalk it up to, their youth led to poor decisions and a gut wrenching breakup bringing us to Part Two.
Eighteen years later (yes! 18!) they meet again under the worst of circumstances, both lonely and heartbroken. Their feelings for each other are still there, just as strong as ever. They don't deny them, can't deny them, but are confused about what to do with these feelings now that their reason for not being together is no longer an issue. For now, they decide not to decide while they work together to honor Nora's closest friend and Thomas's beloved sisters last wish — find the legendary Lover's Arch.
Oh, Kelsey you sure know how to keep me on the edge! I struggled a bit with their reasoning and all the wasted time but who doesn't regret decisions made when they're young?! What will make this book memorable is the emotion poured into it with excellent writing, sexual tension, realistic dialogue and a heart-wrenching plot. Nora and Thomas don't find their HEA easily which adds just enough complexity to keep it interesting. It's a beautiful tale showing how grief and guilt can never outweigh true love.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Four explicit encounters plus a couple alluded to scenes that include loss of virginity together and learning as they go.
I was honored to receive an early copy from the author (thank you!) All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 2, 2025
Tropes: friends to lovers; second chance romance; older MC's; cinnamon roll MMC
Steam level: 3-4
3.5 stars rounded up. I'm not big on the second chance romance trope, but I do like how well the main characters' relationship was developed in a novella length book; they were both each other's first time and the MMC is a genuinely good guy, not your typical flakey rake or moody alpha. I bought their connection. I also liked the fact that this is an older couple by HR standards.
What I didn't buy as much was the reason for and length of separation--18 years! (although at one point 15 years is mentioned?). It was hard to believe that neither of them tried to make their relationship work. Also, at the beginning it was mentioned that the MMC had a few years to go before he reached the age of consent, but the age of consent at the time was 21 and he was 22. And since there's no evidence that MFC's family would have had any trouble giving her permission to marry him, there's no real reason marriage wasn't on the table at some point. I felt like there needed to be an additional obstacle, other than stubbornness. MFC comes across as a martyr in the middle chapters, a trope I'm definitely not keen on.
But along with plenty of steam, the emotion was deeper and more genuine than in many HR's I've read recently, which is the primary ingredient I look for as a romance reader. I will be checking out more of this author's books.
Steam level: 3-4
3.5 stars rounded up. I'm not big on the second chance romance trope, but I do like how well the main characters' relationship was developed in a novella length book; they were both each other's first time and the MMC is a genuinely good guy, not your typical flakey rake or moody alpha. I bought their connection. I also liked the fact that this is an older couple by HR standards.
What I didn't buy as much was the reason for and length of separation--18 years! (although at one point 15 years is mentioned?). It was hard to believe that neither of them tried to make their relationship work. Also, at the beginning it was mentioned that the MMC had a few years to go before he reached the age of consent, but the age of consent at the time was 21 and he was 22. And since there's no evidence that MFC's family would have had any trouble giving her permission to marry him, there's no real reason marriage wasn't on the table at some point. I felt like there needed to be an additional obstacle, other than stubbornness. MFC comes across as a martyr in the middle chapters, a trope I'm definitely not keen on.
But along with plenty of steam, the emotion was deeper and more genuine than in many HR's I've read recently, which is the primary ingredient I look for as a romance reader. I will be checking out more of this author's books.
March 24, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this poignant second chance at love romance with added friends to lovers and best friend’s brother/sister’s best friend tropes that is full of emotion, drama and steam. The plot is very well written and features an endearing, mature couple who were in love a long time ago and selflessly broke up out of love, responsibility and compassion and now find a happy ending in shared grief.
Like the previous books in the series, this final installment is moving and heatwarming and I'm happy to recommend it!
Eleanor "Nora" Allen was just a child when she met her sick friend Beth and her brother Thomas, Viscount Bexton. She and Thomas fell in love, but when he asked her to marry him, she rejected him because she didn't want to let Beth down. Nora broke off contact with Thomas and spent the next two decades at Beth's side.
When Beth finally dies as a result of her illness, Nora is inconsolable. Beth's wish was always to find the mythical Roman Lover's Arch, but it never came true. So Thomas and Nora, united in grief, decide to find it in her place and get closer again...
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
Like the previous books in the series, this final installment is moving and heatwarming and I'm happy to recommend it!
Eleanor "Nora" Allen was just a child when she met her sick friend Beth and her brother Thomas, Viscount Bexton. She and Thomas fell in love, but when he asked her to marry him, she rejected him because she didn't want to let Beth down. Nora broke off contact with Thomas and spent the next two decades at Beth's side.
When Beth finally dies as a result of her illness, Nora is inconsolable. Beth's wish was always to find the mythical Roman Lover's Arch, but it never came true. So Thomas and Nora, united in grief, decide to find it in her place and get closer again...
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
March 18, 2025
This super sexy novella is part of the Later in Life series, which I managed to forget when I started it. I really shouldn't have been as surprised as I was that this sweet story of young love turned into a long separation.* Anyhow, Nora and Thomas fall in love very young, are each other's first everything (yes, another entry in my virgin hero journal!), and then are separated for 20 years. 20 FREAKING YEARS! But when Nora's BFF and Thomas's sister, Beth, leaves them a posthumous scavenger hunt, it ends up bringing the two of them together.
I said this was super sexy and it is. These two are horny at 17/22 and at 35/40. (They get it on in a ton of places, leading to a line about "our first time in a bed" that absolutely cracked me up.) As a novella, scavenger hunt + relationship reconciliation is plenty to keep the reader occupied. I really enjoyed my time spent with this book. It was my first by Kelsey Swanson, and I'm happy to have a new author to check out!
*In addition to the series theme, the book is literally entitled The Viscount's SECOND Chance. I have no excuse.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novella.
I said this was super sexy and it is. These two are horny at 17/22 and at 35/40. (They get it on in a ton of places, leading to a line about "our first time in a bed" that absolutely cracked me up.) As a novella, scavenger hunt + relationship reconciliation is plenty to keep the reader occupied. I really enjoyed my time spent with this book. It was my first by Kelsey Swanson, and I'm happy to have a new author to check out!
*In addition to the series theme, the book is literally entitled The Viscount's SECOND Chance. I have no excuse.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novella.
March 22, 2025
We have Nora Allen and Viscount Thomas Bexton are a couple that is destined to be together! Nora is a bit unstable to me! She loves hard but doesn’t always use logic! Beth has what would termed as seizures today but fits back then and unexplainable!
Nora and Thomas loved each other but Nora decides that Beth seeing them together and realizing once they married and had a family all these would be forever denied to her because of her condition!
Nora decided to deny her love and future with Thomas and devote her life to whatever time Beth has left in life to live it to the fullest!
Umm and deny her the chance to cherish her nieces and nephews! Okayyyy?
The redeeming factor or person is Thomas and how he held out hope and never faltered in his love!
The story of the Lovers Arch and how it brings them full circle and Nora finally realizes her folly!
It is a charming story! I like this author who is new to me!
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased opinion!
Nora and Thomas loved each other but Nora decides that Beth seeing them together and realizing once they married and had a family all these would be forever denied to her because of her condition!
Nora decided to deny her love and future with Thomas and devote her life to whatever time Beth has left in life to live it to the fullest!
Umm and deny her the chance to cherish her nieces and nephews! Okayyyy?
The redeeming factor or person is Thomas and how he held out hope and never faltered in his love!
The story of the Lovers Arch and how it brings them full circle and Nora finally realizes her folly!
It is a charming story! I like this author who is new to me!
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased opinion!
June 1, 2025
Beautiful and heartfelt
4.5/5 This was an emotional and high heat second chance story. I loved getting both platonic and romantic love stories, even if there was only one HEA. Nora’s reasoning at 18 can only be chalked up to being young, short sighted, and stubborn - weren’t we all at that age.
It’s a quick read and liked that not a lot of time was spent being upset about the past. The way the author set up a way to get Thomas and Nora comfortable around one another almost 20 years apart worked well. Working together and hindsight played into their reconciliation and that it’s only ever been each other for them. It was beautiful and heartfelt and left me satisfied.
The Viscount’s Second Chance is part of the multi-author series, The Lovers Arch: Later in Life featuring MC in their mid 30s and older.
There are four encounters and reads steamier for a shorter page count.
4.5/5 This was an emotional and high heat second chance story. I loved getting both platonic and romantic love stories, even if there was only one HEA. Nora’s reasoning at 18 can only be chalked up to being young, short sighted, and stubborn - weren’t we all at that age.
It’s a quick read and liked that not a lot of time was spent being upset about the past. The way the author set up a way to get Thomas and Nora comfortable around one another almost 20 years apart worked well. Working together and hindsight played into their reconciliation and that it’s only ever been each other for them. It was beautiful and heartfelt and left me satisfied.
The Viscount’s Second Chance is part of the multi-author series, The Lovers Arch: Later in Life featuring MC in their mid 30s and older.
There are four encounters and reads steamier for a shorter page count.
March 12, 2025
The Fifth Story!
This is the final book in this particular collection of 'Later in Life' stories, each one written by a different author and each has been an exciting, glorious adventure into love.
This particular story begins with the friendship between two young ladies which gets stronger as the years go by.
Not only do we have a 'second chance' trope in this story but we also have a very different one to what I've been reading recently and this is the 'falling for his sister's best friend', which I found rather refreshing.
I loved the faithfulness of the three main characters and they meshed together so well to bring us a remarkable and entertaining story of love, passion and trust.
My voluntary review is based on my having read an early copy of this book which I enjoyed very much and am happy to recommend.
This is the final book in this particular collection of 'Later in Life' stories, each one written by a different author and each has been an exciting, glorious adventure into love.
This particular story begins with the friendship between two young ladies which gets stronger as the years go by.
Not only do we have a 'second chance' trope in this story but we also have a very different one to what I've been reading recently and this is the 'falling for his sister's best friend', which I found rather refreshing.
I loved the faithfulness of the three main characters and they meshed together so well to bring us a remarkable and entertaining story of love, passion and trust.
My voluntary review is based on my having read an early copy of this book which I enjoyed very much and am happy to recommend.
March 31, 2025
He deserved the second chance more than anyone……….
I’m giving this novella 4 ⭐️s because I loved Thomas so much, Nora not so much. While Nora was a great friend to Beth and had a good heart, her naivety for almost 20 years was extremely frustrating and cruel. I didn’t like that 18 years passed without Thomas and Nora seeing one another. It just didn’t ring genuine with the love the two characters shared as young adults. It was also hard to believe that no one in his family tried to intervene. He was always so true and steadfast with everyone he loved. I hate that he suffered alone for so long. I am glad that they were reunited without any resentment and got the happy ending they deserved. The overall theme definitely demonstrated the romance of a lasting love, but I could have done without all the time apart.
I’m giving this novella 4 ⭐️s because I loved Thomas so much, Nora not so much. While Nora was a great friend to Beth and had a good heart, her naivety for almost 20 years was extremely frustrating and cruel. I didn’t like that 18 years passed without Thomas and Nora seeing one another. It just didn’t ring genuine with the love the two characters shared as young adults. It was also hard to believe that no one in his family tried to intervene. He was always so true and steadfast with everyone he loved. I hate that he suffered alone for so long. I am glad that they were reunited without any resentment and got the happy ending they deserved. The overall theme definitely demonstrated the romance of a lasting love, but I could have done without all the time apart.
December 20, 2025
Loved the book. sad at first, very sad... I even shed a tear or so, and that's not usual for me.
The last part, the second chance part seemed a bit rushed... but it's a novella so maybe... my mistake!
The story, the steam, the promises they made to themselves and the consequences of those choices in both lives were nice to read, some sad moments, that's true, but life is just that! I've also liked Thomas implicit decision that he always be true to this childhood love.
------
Note to my future self: Loved Beth and Nora, Nora and Thomas and specially the second chance and there quest, if it's a book to read again, I don't know, but maybe!
The last part, the second chance part seemed a bit rushed... but it's a novella so maybe... my mistake!
The story, the steam, the promises they made to themselves and the consequences of those choices in both lives were nice to read, some sad moments, that's true, but life is just that! I've also liked Thomas implicit decision that he always be true to this childhood love.
------
Note to my future self: Loved Beth and Nora, Nora and Thomas and specially the second chance and there quest, if it's a book to read again, I don't know, but maybe!
March 30, 2025
A beautiful second-chance romance!
I enjoyed this book. I discovered two marvellous main characters, Nora and Thomas. I particularly liked Beth, a secondary character and Nora’s best friend. She has a significant role in the story. The characters are well-developed. The chemistry between Nora and Thomas is delicious, and their interactions are so delightful. This novella is an emotional, witty, and entertaining romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this book. I discovered two marvellous main characters, Nora and Thomas. I particularly liked Beth, a secondary character and Nora’s best friend. She has a significant role in the story. The characters are well-developed. The chemistry between Nora and Thomas is delicious, and their interactions are so delightful. This novella is an emotional, witty, and entertaining romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 31, 2025
Gorgeously written like always. But unfortunately second chance is my least favorite trope and this time the “excuse” for their separation was flimsy at best and I didn’t like it at all. It’s just me, I know, because, as I said, the book is beautifully written and very emotional. But I hate this kind of “sacrifice” when the main characters could have been happy together AND keep company to the hero’s disabled sister, since she loved them both dearly. So not my cup of tea, but definitely worth reading.
April 4, 2025
Kelsey Swanson's The Viscount's Second Chance tells the poignant tale of Nora and Thomas, Viscount Bexton, whose young love was thwarted by unforeseen circumstances. Years later, fate brings them back together, offering an opportunity to rekindle their romance. Swanson adeptly explores themes of love lost and found, personal sacrifice, and the enduring nature of true affection. Her eloquent prose and deep character insights make this a memorable historical romance.
April 9, 2025
This was my first Kelsey Swanson book and I absolutely loved it! I loved her writing and will definitely jump in to read her others!
It was full of so much emotion, angst and wonderful characters.
If you love a second chance romance, best friend's brother and childhood friends to lovers, you have to pick this one up!
I received an arc via the author and this review was submitted voluntarily.
It was full of so much emotion, angst and wonderful characters.
If you love a second chance romance, best friend's brother and childhood friends to lovers, you have to pick this one up!
I received an arc via the author and this review was submitted voluntarily.
January 10, 2026
This was lacking any meaningful conflict or tension and I felt that the two mains were kind of paternalistic toward the epileptic (?) sister. The bestie felt she couldn’t marry because it would make her disabled friend sad…or you could just ask her how she feels about it and let her manage her own feelings?? Once the mains reconnected it was very bland. I did like how they were older than the usual 25 year olds in histrom.
March 11, 2025
I love friends to lovers and second chance romance. Nora and Thomas had a complicated start to their relationship b/c of family issues. I enjoy that there is representation of a disability in this book. I'm sad for what brought Nora and Thomas back together later in life. How they got to their HEA is wonderful. Another wonderful book with the love arch magic.
March 12, 2025
What a love story! Nora loves Beth so much and wants to protect her for as long as she lives. They are so much fun and the story of the Lover's Arch shines through so completely! And Nora is willing to give up so much for her friend. Beth's brother Thomas loves with a completeness that is totally amazing! I loved this story so much!
March 31, 2025
This later in life, second chance romance had me in all the feels. Beth and Nora’s friendship was truly special and the bittersweet moments had me in tears. Beth was a best friend and sister one could ever hope for. Thomas and Nora had undeniable chemistry even after so many years apart. That love confession of Thomas? So swoon worthy! This novella has it all and I definitely recommend it.
April 2, 2025
A sweet clean story of two souls who must uncover truths, secrets and forgiveness to find peace and happiness. Henry, has a past and yet he loves Eleanor. She was forced to marry an man who died. Now as a widow, she has her own scandal to deal with. The plot is interesting and keeps the reader occupied. The characters have depth and blend well together.
March 25, 2025
This story had an interesting twist. The reader gets a double story of love and the love of friendship. Great characters. The backdrop of the Love Arch made for a great series.
March 31, 2025
I enjoyed the story. The sacrifice she made didn’t quite ring true- but that is probably my modern brain. It was a well written book and I just wanted those two to get on with falling in love!
May 18, 2025
This was my first book I discovered by Kelsey Swanson it was so beautifully written and I truly loved it so much that I will be putting it in my to read again list.
The character development from cute friendships that became lifelong, and young lovers to rekindling love was just perfect. This book pulled at all the heart strings and at one point I was so teary it moved me so much. The intimacy scenes were so well written. I would thoroughly recommend this book.
The character development from cute friendships that became lifelong, and young lovers to rekindling love was just perfect. This book pulled at all the heart strings and at one point I was so teary it moved me so much. The intimacy scenes were so well written. I would thoroughly recommend this book.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews