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Second Chances
NEW YORK TIMES & USA TODAY BESTSELLER
Sex. Betrayal. Forbidden Love. Lawn Boy.
I'm not a catch, I'm not even certain I'm what they'd call 'mentally stable,' not anymore. Too much has happened too fast and it ripped my soul in half. I'm alone, with a plastic stick in my hand that says the one word we'd been so eager to see.
Pregnant.
Lucky in love once is a miracle, but I lost him, and this baby is all I have left. My life turned to ash in a blink and there's nothing I can do about it.
Years pass and I'm still here, but it doesn't feel like it, not until the lawn guy, Daniel Clement, checks me out. Me. A yoga-panting, pony tailing, frumpy-butt, frizzy mommy who's covered in whatever the baby tossed on me at lunch.
Daniel's dark eyes linger too long, as if he likes what he sees. I'm shocked and flattered, but he's too young. The age gap between us is over a decade, but that doesn't stop him. If I sleep with him everyone will think I've lost my mind. Maybe I have, because everyday that I see Daniel's sexy, toned body glistening in the sunlight, I consider feeling him pressed against me, naked. The few times his fingers grazed my skin were heaven, but once the clothes come off--he's a god and I'm... me.
I've been alone for so long. Surely one kiss won't hurt anything, one taste of his mouth should be harmless. Things don't have to go that far, but I'm wrong.
Love only comes around once in a lifetime. Only fools think otherwise, and I'm the biggest fool of them all.
New Adult Romance
Stand Alone Novel (346 pgs)
Sex. Betrayal. Forbidden Love. Lawn Boy.
I'm not a catch, I'm not even certain I'm what they'd call 'mentally stable,' not anymore. Too much has happened too fast and it ripped my soul in half. I'm alone, with a plastic stick in my hand that says the one word we'd been so eager to see.
Pregnant.
Lucky in love once is a miracle, but I lost him, and this baby is all I have left. My life turned to ash in a blink and there's nothing I can do about it.
Years pass and I'm still here, but it doesn't feel like it, not until the lawn guy, Daniel Clement, checks me out. Me. A yoga-panting, pony tailing, frumpy-butt, frizzy mommy who's covered in whatever the baby tossed on me at lunch.
Daniel's dark eyes linger too long, as if he likes what he sees. I'm shocked and flattered, but he's too young. The age gap between us is over a decade, but that doesn't stop him. If I sleep with him everyone will think I've lost my mind. Maybe I have, because everyday that I see Daniel's sexy, toned body glistening in the sunlight, I consider feeling him pressed against me, naked. The few times his fingers grazed my skin were heaven, but once the clothes come off--he's a god and I'm... me.
I've been alone for so long. Surely one kiss won't hurt anything, one taste of his mouth should be harmless. Things don't have to go that far, but I'm wrong.
Love only comes around once in a lifetime. Only fools think otherwise, and I'm the biggest fool of them all.
New Adult Romance
Stand Alone Novel (346 pgs)
325 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2014
59 people are currently reading
1916 people want to read
About the author
H.M. Ward
140 books6,543 followersH.M. Ward continues to reign as a NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author who surpassed more than 23 million books sold, placing her among the literary titans. Ward has been featured in articles in the NEW YORK TIMES, FORBES, and USA TODAY to name a few.
You can interact with this bestselling author at: www.facebook.com/AuthorHMWard.
You can interact with this bestselling author at: www.facebook.com/AuthorHMWard.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 258 reviews
June 21, 2014
New novel coming in July! :)
August 27, 2014
::: FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED :::
I read this forbidden romance in one sitting the other night!! It was one of those surprise reads where I tried out the first chapter to see if I would like the book and then just never put it down!
The story starts out with heart-break. Genevieve learned that her husband, best friend, and long-time love would never return from his deployment right after finding out that she was pregnant with their first child. Two years later, his loss still weighed heavily on her. He might be physically gone, but she still felt married to him in her heart. She'd had her first love and lost him, and now her only focus was on their little boy.
She wasn't looking for a relationship and wasn't looking to ever replace him but ended up finding love again in the most unlikely of places... with her lawn boy, Daniel, who'd been caring for her and her son from afar for many years.
Ok, so I'll admit that I was a little nervous going into this book because of the age gap thing. Not that I'm judging or anything but sometimes it just doesn't work for me. But in this case, it honestly just felt right. For the record, Daniel was 22 years old (about 10 years younger than her) and this completely amazing guy. Mature, self-sufficient, in full control of his life. He was kind, caring, and he made her feel safe. And I think it helped that he was the one who made the move to enter her life initially. He just quietly took care of them until, as a reader, you just could see so clearly that he belonged with them. It just felt right. And honestly, the way that their relationship developed was really sweet. Naturally, Gen had understandable worries about how their relationship would look to the rest of the world but for them, it really just worked.
There were only 2 things that bothered me a little... First, Gen's mother and her whole attitude kind of drove me up the wall and but hey, thankfully she didn't do any lasting damage. And second, I wish there's been an epilogue. There is a happy ending and it does end in a good place but I do feel like an epilogue would have been a good addition to have.
This is a standalone romance though. Overall, I'd say it's a little emotional -- there were a few times when I got misty-eyed -- and quite sweet. Daniel and Gen were an unlikely couple but I really liked them together. And I gotta say, it's incredibly swoony to watch a guy care for a child that isn't his and just totally accept that child into his life. I also found it to be quite an easy read. It's a full-length novel but I was surprised at how quickly the pages flew by. I liked the writing style and just generally really enjoyed the story.
Rating: 4 stars. Standalone.
_______________________________________
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I read this forbidden romance in one sitting the other night!! It was one of those surprise reads where I tried out the first chapter to see if I would like the book and then just never put it down!
The story starts out with heart-break. Genevieve learned that her husband, best friend, and long-time love would never return from his deployment right after finding out that she was pregnant with their first child. Two years later, his loss still weighed heavily on her. He might be physically gone, but she still felt married to him in her heart. She'd had her first love and lost him, and now her only focus was on their little boy.
"Cade is a hard act to follow. He loved me. It's hard to describe, but I feel like we're still together, that he's still mine and I'm still his - even though he's gone."
She wasn't looking for a relationship and wasn't looking to ever replace him but ended up finding love again in the most unlikely of places... with her lawn boy, Daniel, who'd been caring for her and her son from afar for many years.
Ok, so I'll admit that I was a little nervous going into this book because of the age gap thing. Not that I'm judging or anything but sometimes it just doesn't work for me. But in this case, it honestly just felt right. For the record, Daniel was 22 years old (about 10 years younger than her) and this completely amazing guy. Mature, self-sufficient, in full control of his life. He was kind, caring, and he made her feel safe. And I think it helped that he was the one who made the move to enter her life initially. He just quietly took care of them until, as a reader, you just could see so clearly that he belonged with them. It just felt right. And honestly, the way that their relationship developed was really sweet. Naturally, Gen had understandable worries about how their relationship would look to the rest of the world but for them, it really just worked.
There were only 2 things that bothered me a little... First, Gen's mother and her whole attitude kind of drove me up the wall and but hey, thankfully she didn't do any lasting damage. And second, I wish there's been an epilogue. There is a happy ending and it does end in a good place but I do feel like an epilogue would have been a good addition to have.
This is a standalone romance though. Overall, I'd say it's a little emotional -- there were a few times when I got misty-eyed -- and quite sweet. Daniel and Gen were an unlikely couple but I really liked them together. And I gotta say, it's incredibly swoony to watch a guy care for a child that isn't his and just totally accept that child into his life. I also found it to be quite an easy read. It's a full-length novel but I was surprised at how quickly the pages flew by. I liked the writing style and just generally really enjoyed the story.
Rating: 4 stars. Standalone.
_______________________________________
For more of my reviews, book news and updates:
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February 21, 2017
3.5 stars!
July 16, 2014
Not even a few pages in and I had to get the tissues. Ward wasn't kidding when she said this one will pull at your heart strings. Genevieve aka Gen has been though a lot after that dreadful knock on the door by two men in uniform. Even though it got better, it got worse at the time. Although Daniel aka dan has been a huge help too. Getting hired by Cade, Gen's husband, before he died years earlier to help around the house while he was deployed Dan has been there for her. After she kept getting pushed by her mother and friends to find a new man not even 2 years later she finds reason to open back up and to an unexpected person at that.
Must read this. You won't be disappointed. A heart touch romantic novel.
Must read this. You won't be disappointed. A heart touch romantic novel.
July 17, 2014
I received an advanced reader's copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review.
What a sweet love story. I was crying by page 11. Thankfully the sadness didn't last much longer.
At first I wasn't sure if I would like this book due to the age difference. Yet as I read the book, that worry fell away. I was then able to enjoy the story of a young war widow trying just to make it through every day. It was very touching and makes you really think about what so many of our young military families are going through.
I would recommend that the words "Betrayal and sex" be removed from the book synopsis. I wouldn't consider what happened to be betrayal at all. Lack of trust, yes, but not betrayal. And this isn't a sex filled book by any means. The amount of sex in this book doesn't justify the word being used. This book is so different from Ms. Ward's other works and people should know that up front. However, this is a good thing. I love that we are shown another side of her creative brain!
What a sweet love story. I was crying by page 11. Thankfully the sadness didn't last much longer.
At first I wasn't sure if I would like this book due to the age difference. Yet as I read the book, that worry fell away. I was then able to enjoy the story of a young war widow trying just to make it through every day. It was very touching and makes you really think about what so many of our young military families are going through.
I would recommend that the words "Betrayal and sex" be removed from the book synopsis. I wouldn't consider what happened to be betrayal at all. Lack of trust, yes, but not betrayal. And this isn't a sex filled book by any means. The amount of sex in this book doesn't justify the word being used. This book is so different from Ms. Ward's other works and people should know that up front. However, this is a good thing. I love that we are shown another side of her creative brain!
August 4, 2014
I really liked this book! I was crying at the end of the first chapter and again at the end of the second chapter....so emotional!
Genevieve is a 32 year old widow.... she is trying to put her life back together with her son, but really has no interest in any romantic relationships.
Daniel, her "lawn boy", had been taking care of her landscaping and minor jobs around the house after the death of her husband. However, he had been cutting their lawn since he was young.
Let me tell you the buildup between these two was intense. The age difference put Genevieve on edge, but the chemistry between them....just wow! And Daniel's connection and interaction with her son, CJ, just made me grin like crazy! Daniel is just such a sweetheart.... caring and tender... that is, until you piss him off and don't stick up for him when you should... dammit Gen!!!!!
But of course, Gen's crazy mother caused all the havoc and that really pissed me off!
The only reason I did not give this 5 stars is because the end was too quick and short lived. I needed more! And no epilogue!!!! Gah!!
Genevieve is a 32 year old widow.... she is trying to put her life back together with her son, but really has no interest in any romantic relationships.
Daniel, her "lawn boy", had been taking care of her landscaping and minor jobs around the house after the death of her husband. However, he had been cutting their lawn since he was young.
Let me tell you the buildup between these two was intense. The age difference put Genevieve on edge, but the chemistry between them....just wow! And Daniel's connection and interaction with her son, CJ, just made me grin like crazy! Daniel is just such a sweetheart.... caring and tender... that is, until you piss him off and don't stick up for him when you should... dammit Gen!!!!!
But of course, Gen's crazy mother caused all the havoc and that really pissed me off!
The only reason I did not give this 5 stars is because the end was too quick and short lived. I needed more! And no epilogue!!!! Gah!!
July 17, 2014
Second chances review
I cried, I laughed and I cried again.... I am a huge Holly fan.... And just became an even bigger one!!! (Didn't think it was possible :)This book is amazing... And It was REAL.... It's not some handsome billionaire that gets you a makeover and buys you a car &house and can make you have an orgasm by looking at you, or pinching your nipples..( I mean really who does that?!? Either I have faulty nipples or they just haven't been pinched properly?!)
although I may need to look into getting a lawn boy now!!(wink,wink;)
Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down...I had to know what happened!!! (Probably shouldn't have started it so late...I was up till 4am... Holy book hangover!! Eek!! So ...FYI, start reading early!)
It's about real life ....
(Yes I know it's a book and not real....but the story wasn't so far fetched.. It was believable)
It's about hardships,struggles, heartaches,heartbreaks, healing & second chances...
I cried, I laughed and I cried again.... I am a huge Holly fan.... And just became an even bigger one!!! (Didn't think it was possible :)This book is amazing... And It was REAL.... It's not some handsome billionaire that gets you a makeover and buys you a car &house and can make you have an orgasm by looking at you, or pinching your nipples..( I mean really who does that?!? Either I have faulty nipples or they just haven't been pinched properly?!)
although I may need to look into getting a lawn boy now!!(wink,wink;)
Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down...I had to know what happened!!! (Probably shouldn't have started it so late...I was up till 4am... Holy book hangover!! Eek!! So ...FYI, start reading early!)
It's about real life ....
(Yes I know it's a book and not real....but the story wasn't so far fetched.. It was believable)
It's about hardships,struggles, heartaches,heartbreaks, healing & second chances...
August 27, 2014
This story had a good premise, but I just felt like I wasn't given enough time to connect with the characters. I did enjoy both the heroine and the hero, but I just didn't get the connection. It was a sweet, cute and short read with little drama anyhow and I would still recommend this book to others.
July 21, 2014
I was trusted with this ARC, in exchange for an honest review.
I give this book 5+ stars.
H.M. Ward did it again. She never seems to amaze me. With all the personal trials she is always facing; she still seems to write amazing novels, stealing our hearts. And this one was no different.
I abso-fricken-lutely LOVED this book. Even with all the tears that were shed, the story that consumed the book made up for it all.
You would have to be crazy to not fall in love with Daniel (Dan). He was amazing through and through, and she was one lucky ass woman. I loved the way he was hired by Cade, and I would have loved Cade as well, just from the things that were said about him. Because he was another great guy.
But Daniel took such great care of her and CJ. Not to many men you will find that will do that, when it's another mans baby. But considering what he went through as a child, I think is what made him want to take great care of CJ.
Genevieve (Gen) was also another great person, who has went through more than an person should go through within a 2 yr period. Not sure I would handle the things she did, and would still be sane.
But she did and even though she doesn't think so, she did it like a champ. She did it the best way she knew how, and making sure CJ was first in everything she did. She handled everything perfect. Even her friends. They were something else by the way.
I really enjoyed this book. I would recommend it to everyone. And always remember that age are just numbers. Because she could have found someone her age, and he probably wouldn't have treated her the way Dan did, are CJ. He was wise beyond his years.
As for as the mother. I don't really have any words for her. Although she came around at the end, she still just gets under my skin, with her judging, fancy face self. LOL
And being around the family so many years, he knew them all well. That to me made a big differance.
Thank you H.M. Ward for another great book. You always know how to keep us addicted.
I give this book 5+ stars.
H.M. Ward did it again. She never seems to amaze me. With all the personal trials she is always facing; she still seems to write amazing novels, stealing our hearts. And this one was no different.
I abso-fricken-lutely LOVED this book. Even with all the tears that were shed, the story that consumed the book made up for it all.
You would have to be crazy to not fall in love with Daniel (Dan). He was amazing through and through, and she was one lucky ass woman. I loved the way he was hired by Cade, and I would have loved Cade as well, just from the things that were said about him. Because he was another great guy.
But Daniel took such great care of her and CJ. Not to many men you will find that will do that, when it's another mans baby. But considering what he went through as a child, I think is what made him want to take great care of CJ.
Genevieve (Gen) was also another great person, who has went through more than an person should go through within a 2 yr period. Not sure I would handle the things she did, and would still be sane.
But she did and even though she doesn't think so, she did it like a champ. She did it the best way she knew how, and making sure CJ was first in everything she did. She handled everything perfect. Even her friends. They were something else by the way.
I really enjoyed this book. I would recommend it to everyone. And always remember that age are just numbers. Because she could have found someone her age, and he probably wouldn't have treated her the way Dan did, are CJ. He was wise beyond his years.
As for as the mother. I don't really have any words for her. Although she came around at the end, she still just gets under my skin, with her judging, fancy face self. LOL
And being around the family so many years, he knew them all well. That to me made a big differance.
Thank you H.M. Ward for another great book. You always know how to keep us addicted.
July 17, 2014
Warning: You will need a box of tissues to read this book!
Oh, where to start...well Holly did it again! This novel is stand alone and different from her other stories. But don't worry, it's different in a good way! This book is very real, in fact, some people have probably experienced part, if not more of this story. Holly and Stacey really drive the ball home, hitting every emotional pit stop on the way. You'll laugh and cry...and really just FEEL. You'll feel everything, from being overjoyed to devastated and every other point on the emotional spectrum. These ladies did a good job with character development (as you always do Holly) and it's almost as if you're standing there, holding the main characters hand and can't help but feel for her...there's that word again! If only you could reach into this reality and hold on to her, believe me, you would.
This book never slows down. You won't find yourself being bored or impatient, it was written with perfection. The story of Genevieve, Cade, CJ and the lawn boy is, without a doub,t a winner! Going through a great loss is possibly the toughest struggle in life and Genevieve goes through more than a fair share of it. Her little CJ keeps her going, but even being a parent can sometimes have it's rough patches. Then the most unsuspecting person-because he's always been around-swoops into her life to change it again, in the best ways possible. Who wouldn't want a totally lickable lawn boy ;) As you read her story, Genevieve will take you through all the stages of grief, then pull out to find joy, grief again and then finally settling down in her battle with fate.
What a wonderful story of struggle, grief and great joy! You shared an fantastic story with us Holly and I'm glad Stacey was there to help develop it as well. You are both amazing and an inspiration!
Oh, where to start...well Holly did it again! This novel is stand alone and different from her other stories. But don't worry, it's different in a good way! This book is very real, in fact, some people have probably experienced part, if not more of this story. Holly and Stacey really drive the ball home, hitting every emotional pit stop on the way. You'll laugh and cry...and really just FEEL. You'll feel everything, from being overjoyed to devastated and every other point on the emotional spectrum. These ladies did a good job with character development (as you always do Holly) and it's almost as if you're standing there, holding the main characters hand and can't help but feel for her...there's that word again! If only you could reach into this reality and hold on to her, believe me, you would.
This book never slows down. You won't find yourself being bored or impatient, it was written with perfection. The story of Genevieve, Cade, CJ and the lawn boy is, without a doub,t a winner! Going through a great loss is possibly the toughest struggle in life and Genevieve goes through more than a fair share of it. Her little CJ keeps her going, but even being a parent can sometimes have it's rough patches. Then the most unsuspecting person-because he's always been around-swoops into her life to change it again, in the best ways possible. Who wouldn't want a totally lickable lawn boy ;) As you read her story, Genevieve will take you through all the stages of grief, then pull out to find joy, grief again and then finally settling down in her battle with fate.
What a wonderful story of struggle, grief and great joy! You shared an fantastic story with us Holly and I'm glad Stacey was there to help develop it as well. You are both amazing and an inspiration!
April 10, 2016
Second Chances was not one of my favorites, and it definitely doesn't compare to the other books I've read by Ward. Most of the book revolves around this forbidden attraction between a 33 year old widow, and her 22 year old lawn boy. There were a few things that were sad, that could possibly elicit an emotional response from the reader, but not enough going on in my opinion, to make the reader invest in the story. Genevieve "Genny" is still grief ridden by the loss of her husband while he was deployed. Her friends, and family want to see her move on, but she has no interest in that at all. Dan was hired by Genevieve's late husband Cade when he was just a teenager. As time went on, and especially after Cade died, he's taken on more to keep Genevieve's house maintained. Genevieve is extremely insecure, and many women are, but I think she is a little excessive with it. It's obvious they are both attracted to one another, but Genevieve is more concerned with what others think, and feelings of betrayal to her husband, than what's right in front of her. Dan is extremely young, but also very mature for his age. Unlike most guys at his age, he has already started his own business, and is almost done with college. Other than a few small events, Second Chances has not plot other than the attraction, and what comes of it.
July 17, 2014
Change of heart - I have to say I have never liked co authored books. Many that I have read feel like there is a constant pull and disconnect, so I made it an effort never to read them; until now. Luckily is got the chance to receive the arc copy of this book. Because I love HM Ward I gave it a chance
For the first time I found, not only captivated by a story so heart felt and real, but how two different people composed a book that not only captures the essence of what true loss feels like, but stay succinct with one another. This story was heart breaking and felt so real. There wasn't any over the top "He's gone I'm moving on" feel. This book was a struggle from beginning to end. Such as is life
Great job ladies, amazing job!
For the first time I found, not only captivated by a story so heart felt and real, but how two different people composed a book that not only captures the essence of what true loss feels like, but stay succinct with one another. This story was heart breaking and felt so real. There wasn't any over the top "He's gone I'm moving on" feel. This book was a struggle from beginning to end. Such as is life
Great job ladies, amazing job!
August 8, 2014
This was probably one of the best books I have read to date. I definitely experienced every single emotion possible while reading--sadness, happiness, anger, hurt, etc. I was literally sobbing at the beginning. The story was so heart breaking and heart warming(is that even possible?). Daniel and Gen's story is so sweet. And the emotions they both feel are so--wow. So I would definitely recommend this book to all fans of Holly's books. She was right saying it wasn't like any of her other books. But it was just as AMAZING!! LOVED IT HOLLY!!!
EVERYONE GO READ THIS BOOK!!!!!! YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!! :)
EVERYONE GO READ THIS BOOK!!!!!! YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!! :)
December 12, 2015
A younger man (Dan, the lawn boy) and Genevieve, a grieving widow who was pregnant when her husband was killed overseas. Dan was a 17-year old high school kid when her husband first hired him to work around the house when he was away on deployment. The book starts a few years later, Genevieve is a mom trying to take care of a two year old and Dan is a 21-year old hunk, still helping around the house.
I enjoyed this story but there was nothing new about it to make it different from a lot of similar stories. The only emotion it stirred in me was hatred for Gen when she believed her really irritating mom about Dan being a gold digger.
If you like y/o books, this one was just okay.
I enjoyed this story but there was nothing new about it to make it different from a lot of similar stories. The only emotion it stirred in me was hatred for Gen when she believed her really irritating mom about Dan being a gold digger.
If you like y/o books, this one was just okay.
July 20, 2014
What a killer duo Ward and Mosteller make! From the get go this story gripped my heart, shredded it and slowly but lovingly mended it back piece by piece. There was such tragedy in the beginning (tissues galore) I almost forgot to breathe and when I did, it felt labored. So emotional.. I have a lump in my throat just thinking about it and it's been days. This is a story of love, loss, devastation, new life and second chances. I love books that make me forget to think and instead make me feel. Thanks Holly and Stacey for such a great story to read! I can't wait for the next ;)
January 6, 2015
Amazing
I loved this second chance at love beautiful. I cried for Genevieve my heart broke. I love how the writer put her next love interest right under her nose, sexy and hot yummy. In all the pain there was light!!!
I loved this second chance at love beautiful. I cried for Genevieve my heart broke. I love how the writer put her next love interest right under her nose, sexy and hot yummy. In all the pain there was light!!!
July 20, 2014
OMG !! So much different ,but such a GREAT STORY !! Excitement ,grief,baby, and grief .....then LOVE ;) if you have read .....you must read !!!!!!
July 26, 2014
4.5 wish it had an epilogue, but overall very good.
August 11, 2014
I agree. There needs to be an epilog.
August 6, 2014
Temporary review. These are my thoughts on the book, quickly written down. I will probably revise it and add some things tomorrow evening.
I was kindly given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Second Chances is a story about a single mom who lost her husband two years ago. She’s been in a funk since then, and the only thing she really takes joy in is her son. Pretty quickly we are introduced to her lawn man, Daniel. It’s clear early on that he likes and cares for Gen and her son, CJ (way more than Genevieve realizes). When Gen is in over her head and is getting frantic, he steppes in. Turns out he’s pretty amazing with CJ. They find themselves spending more time together. Problem is Daniel is more than 10 years younger than her.
So this book tackles a pretty taboo topic. There are endless books where the man is a lot older than the woman. No one bats an eye at that, of course. In this book the main character is 33 years old woman and her potential love interest is only 22. He’s in college. She has a kid. He started working for Gen and her husband when he was fifteen. She’s now a widow.
What I loved was their dynamic. The age difference was non-existent when they were together. He had experienced some things that forced him mature quickly, and so he didn’t really act like your typical 22-year old.
As I said in my status update when I was on page 126: It reminded me the tiniest bit of Seduction & Snacks, especially in the beginning. I loved that book to death, and so I mean that as the biggest complement. In contrast, this book (as we were warned repeatedly) was also a tearjerker.
This book had a slow burn, and I was actually surprised by the fact that there was only one sex scene, and it took place fairly close to the end. I have to confess I was expecting things to heat up a lot quicker, but that was admittedly before really got into the book and really grasped the character dynamics. By then I was already in love with the characters...
CJ was the adorable. Dan with CJ made my ovaries explode. I practically awwwh-ing in any scene they were together.
One of my favorite scenes was when Dan was helping Gen out when CJ was sick and she was a train wreck. He took CJ off her hands for a bit so she could shower and take a nap. She was listening to them through the baby monitor. Read this scene and feel your ovaries go boom (if you have them, that is. You could be equipped with balls for all I know) ;)
All in all it was a very entertaining read, and I was laughing out loud several times. It was hilariously written. I think H.M. Ward and Stacey Mosteller was a great match!
Is he going to kiss me? What the hell is he doing? My stomach flip-flops, and when he offers me his boyish grin I melt. “Genevieve?”
“Yeah?” I ask, feeling half drunk with a midlife crisis/mad crush on the lawn boy.
“Can I have the towels, then?”
He’s been holding out his hand. Oh God, I misread him. I laugh nervously and shove them into his hands, dropping the washcloth on the floor. “Oh, right! We wouldn’t want you walking around naked, would we?”
A couple of peeves I had:
- There was a little cheese. “You don’t see yourself very clearly, do you?” <- I’ve heard that one before… In defense, Gen really didn’t though. Her view of herself was completely warped.
- I wanted to shake Gen around the 56-57% mark. I really don’t like it when characters are so blind. Especially when it is so clear to the reader. It’s frustrating.
- The end was almost a little anticlimactic to me. I mentioned the slow burn, and I expected it to be more powerful when everything finally exploded.
- By the very end I thought Gen’s mother and friends went very quickly from being extremely negative to Dan and Gen’s relationship to completely accepting it after a short speech from Daniel.
I’m settling on 4.5 stars for this book. My only real complaint is that I wished the ending were a little more powerful. The few other peeves I had were not that significant overall.
I was kindly given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Second Chances is a story about a single mom who lost her husband two years ago. She’s been in a funk since then, and the only thing she really takes joy in is her son. Pretty quickly we are introduced to her lawn man, Daniel. It’s clear early on that he likes and cares for Gen and her son, CJ (way more than Genevieve realizes). When Gen is in over her head and is getting frantic, he steppes in. Turns out he’s pretty amazing with CJ. They find themselves spending more time together. Problem is Daniel is more than 10 years younger than her.
So this book tackles a pretty taboo topic. There are endless books where the man is a lot older than the woman. No one bats an eye at that, of course. In this book the main character is 33 years old woman and her potential love interest is only 22. He’s in college. She has a kid. He started working for Gen and her husband when he was fifteen. She’s now a widow.
What I loved was their dynamic. The age difference was non-existent when they were together. He had experienced some things that forced him mature quickly, and so he didn’t really act like your typical 22-year old.
As I said in my status update when I was on page 126: It reminded me the tiniest bit of Seduction & Snacks, especially in the beginning. I loved that book to death, and so I mean that as the biggest complement. In contrast, this book (as we were warned repeatedly) was also a tearjerker.
This book had a slow burn, and I was actually surprised by the fact that there was only one sex scene, and it took place fairly close to the end. I have to confess I was expecting things to heat up a lot quicker, but that was admittedly before really got into the book and really grasped the character dynamics. By then I was already in love with the characters...
CJ was the adorable. Dan with CJ made my ovaries explode. I practically awwwh-ing in any scene they were together.
One of my favorite scenes was when Dan was helping Gen out when CJ was sick and she was a train wreck. He took CJ off her hands for a bit so she could shower and take a nap. She was listening to them through the baby monitor. Read this scene and feel your ovaries go boom (if you have them, that is. You could be equipped with balls for all I know) ;)
All in all it was a very entertaining read, and I was laughing out loud several times. It was hilariously written. I think H.M. Ward and Stacey Mosteller was a great match!
Is he going to kiss me? What the hell is he doing? My stomach flip-flops, and when he offers me his boyish grin I melt. “Genevieve?”
“Yeah?” I ask, feeling half drunk with a midlife crisis/mad crush on the lawn boy.
“Can I have the towels, then?”
He’s been holding out his hand. Oh God, I misread him. I laugh nervously and shove them into his hands, dropping the washcloth on the floor. “Oh, right! We wouldn’t want you walking around naked, would we?”
A couple of peeves I had:
- There was a little cheese. “You don’t see yourself very clearly, do you?” <- I’ve heard that one before… In defense, Gen really didn’t though. Her view of herself was completely warped.
- I wanted to shake Gen around the 56-57% mark. I really don’t like it when characters are so blind. Especially when it is so clear to the reader. It’s frustrating.
- The end was almost a little anticlimactic to me. I mentioned the slow burn, and I expected it to be more powerful when everything finally exploded.
- By the very end I thought Gen’s mother and friends went very quickly from being extremely negative to Dan and Gen’s relationship to completely accepting it after a short speech from Daniel.
I’m settling on 4.5 stars for this book. My only real complaint is that I wished the ending were a little more powerful. The few other peeves I had were not that significant overall.
July 20, 2014
See more reviews on my blog! http://sparetimebookblog.blogspot.com/
We were warned in advance that this one was going to be a tearjerker from the author. Put it this way, I was crying at 2% into this one. It's such a whirl wind of a read! I loved it! Gen had a good life. A home and a man that loved her dearly. Then she lost the love of her life, her husband of 10 years when he was deployed. Anyone who has ever lost anyone or has someone they love would feel for her. Especially when the author does such a good job writing those emotions. It's almost as if I felt her pain through the pages. She also just found out two days ago that she is pregnant with his child. It's a good thing shes got such great friends and a Father who really cares. I think her Mom does care but, she's a little cold towards her. After Cade's death Gen becomes pretty much obsessed with living her life and being the best mom to her child. A little boy, named CJ. Where does she go from here? Will she find love again? Does she even want to?
Gen is living life the best she can. She is the sole caregiver to her son CJ, takes care of the house, and tries to take care of herself. She has a lot on her plate. Then she's got her Mom and friends trying to set her up with guys. She is simply not ready to move on. She is still in love with her husband even though he passed away. She is also pretty self councious about her post-baby body. Thankfully she has Daniel, the lawn boy who Cade hired a couple years before he died. He has been especially helpful recently. Fixing stuff in the house and outside. Soon Gen starts to notice that he is not longer that boy but, a man. The night he helps her with CJ is the night that changes things.
Daniel is now a man that is caring, helpful, handy, and kind to Gen. He isn't judging her like everyone else. They start to spend more time together and their relationship is no longer the way it used to be. The age difference between them is over a decade and Gen worries about that. Daniel doesn't worry about it. He knows how he feels and that's the end of it. What will everyone think? Will they judge her? For me they were so cute together and I don't think age should matter but, to society it does. Will these two be able to look past it or will family and society pressure be to much?
This book has jumped to the top of my list of favorites for H.M. Ward. It was such a great book! The way it was written, the emotions just jumped off the page and I was living it with Gen. It's only a stand alone but, I'd love to get more of these two! Go get this one people!
We were warned in advance that this one was going to be a tearjerker from the author. Put it this way, I was crying at 2% into this one. It's such a whirl wind of a read! I loved it! Gen had a good life. A home and a man that loved her dearly. Then she lost the love of her life, her husband of 10 years when he was deployed. Anyone who has ever lost anyone or has someone they love would feel for her. Especially when the author does such a good job writing those emotions. It's almost as if I felt her pain through the pages. She also just found out two days ago that she is pregnant with his child. It's a good thing shes got such great friends and a Father who really cares. I think her Mom does care but, she's a little cold towards her. After Cade's death Gen becomes pretty much obsessed with living her life and being the best mom to her child. A little boy, named CJ. Where does she go from here? Will she find love again? Does she even want to?
Gen is living life the best she can. She is the sole caregiver to her son CJ, takes care of the house, and tries to take care of herself. She has a lot on her plate. Then she's got her Mom and friends trying to set her up with guys. She is simply not ready to move on. She is still in love with her husband even though he passed away. She is also pretty self councious about her post-baby body. Thankfully she has Daniel, the lawn boy who Cade hired a couple years before he died. He has been especially helpful recently. Fixing stuff in the house and outside. Soon Gen starts to notice that he is not longer that boy but, a man. The night he helps her with CJ is the night that changes things.
Daniel is now a man that is caring, helpful, handy, and kind to Gen. He isn't judging her like everyone else. They start to spend more time together and their relationship is no longer the way it used to be. The age difference between them is over a decade and Gen worries about that. Daniel doesn't worry about it. He knows how he feels and that's the end of it. What will everyone think? Will they judge her? For me they were so cute together and I don't think age should matter but, to society it does. Will these two be able to look past it or will family and society pressure be to much?
This book has jumped to the top of my list of favorites for H.M. Ward. It was such a great book! The way it was written, the emotions just jumped off the page and I was living it with Gen. It's only a stand alone but, I'd love to get more of these two! Go get this one people!
July 21, 2014
I received an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What can I say? This story is as real and heartfelt as they come, and anyone reading this must have some tissues at the ready when they start reading chapter 1. The collaboration between H.M. Ward and Stacey Mosteller in this story is stellar. I've read their stories in the past and both ladies did an awesome job with this one. It broke my heart so many times knowing that many women, and also men, who are married to service men, or women, have gone thru similar situations of loss and love, and come out with new hope and love in their lives.
Genevieve is a military wife who can't believe that she has a Chaplain in her home about to tell her that her husband had died. And to top her grief, she didn't get a chance to tell her husband, Cade, that she was pregnant after trying for so long to have a baby. After the baby is born, she dedicates her life to him and feels that she has all she needs, although she is in a continuous funk and always turns down anybody that brings up having her set up with someone.
Daniel is the lawn boy that Cade had hired when he was a teenager to work on the yard and help with any repairs while Cade was deployed. After Cade dies, he still continues to take care of things around the house as before. He is young and hot, and Genevieve takes notice of him but put on the breaks at the beginning because he is 11 years younger than she is.
When Genevieve sees Daniel take care of CJ and her on one of her low moments, she starts seeing him with new eyes and new emotions arise that lets her know that love didn't die when Cade passed away. But what is she to do with all of it when the person she has become interested in is too young for her?
The secondary characters added to the feelings and emotions that Genevieve is going thru in her life. At many points in the story, I couldn't believe the things that her mother said, that I wanted to yell at her myself so she could open her eyes to what she kept saying.
Again, this book deals with some real issues and emotions that it made me feel like the story was inspired by true events. It is amazing that Holly and Stacey co-wrote a book so emotionally charged, that had me wanting to know what was going to happen next at every turn of a page. Awesome job ladies!
What can I say? This story is as real and heartfelt as they come, and anyone reading this must have some tissues at the ready when they start reading chapter 1. The collaboration between H.M. Ward and Stacey Mosteller in this story is stellar. I've read their stories in the past and both ladies did an awesome job with this one. It broke my heart so many times knowing that many women, and also men, who are married to service men, or women, have gone thru similar situations of loss and love, and come out with new hope and love in their lives.
Genevieve is a military wife who can't believe that she has a Chaplain in her home about to tell her that her husband had died. And to top her grief, she didn't get a chance to tell her husband, Cade, that she was pregnant after trying for so long to have a baby. After the baby is born, she dedicates her life to him and feels that she has all she needs, although she is in a continuous funk and always turns down anybody that brings up having her set up with someone.
Daniel is the lawn boy that Cade had hired when he was a teenager to work on the yard and help with any repairs while Cade was deployed. After Cade dies, he still continues to take care of things around the house as before. He is young and hot, and Genevieve takes notice of him but put on the breaks at the beginning because he is 11 years younger than she is.
When Genevieve sees Daniel take care of CJ and her on one of her low moments, she starts seeing him with new eyes and new emotions arise that lets her know that love didn't die when Cade passed away. But what is she to do with all of it when the person she has become interested in is too young for her?
The secondary characters added to the feelings and emotions that Genevieve is going thru in her life. At many points in the story, I couldn't believe the things that her mother said, that I wanted to yell at her myself so she could open her eyes to what she kept saying.
Again, this book deals with some real issues and emotions that it made me feel like the story was inspired by true events. It is amazing that Holly and Stacey co-wrote a book so emotionally charged, that had me wanting to know what was going to happen next at every turn of a page. Awesome job ladies!
July 19, 2014
I loved this book, it had me crying so many times, both sad and happy tears. My heart broke for Genevieve, how the first two chapters are written shows the horror of such a think happening, how one must feel, the realization hitting her, and then to know that the one thing they wanted most was happening but without all of the players being present. Then the chapter taking us back two months so we could learn more about Cade and once again what it must be like to say goodbye to someone you love when they are off to fight for our freedom, I can't imagine how difficult this is. Then we skip ahead two years and that is when I got to see the true colors of Genny's mother. At first I really liked Gen's mother but wow was I surprised when we got to see the real her, she was nasty, mean, and so uncaring most of the time. Her father was the complete opposite, he was funny, loving, and supportive. I love CJ, he is so cute and I love how he tries to say different people's names and how happy he always is to see his mother. Daniel is so sweet, sexy, loving, and what a compassionate man, I loved how he was with CJ, it was adorable when he played the dunking of the bread game with CJ. I was shocked to find out what his secret was, how awful that must have been for him and how he must still e hurt to the core of his heart. I got so tired of everyone around Gen telling her to go out and meet someone, and her mother telling her she should be moving on by now, two years is not that long. I could not wait until Daniel and Genny stopped misunderstanding how each of them felt for the other, it got frustrating. My heart broke for Daniel when Genny did not stand up for him with her mother, it was devastating. The tears started again when Gen realized what a huge mistake she made and tried to rectify the situation but it was a hard road full of tears and then finally one of her plans works out and they live HEA. I loved the ending, it was just perfect. It was strange at first reading a book that has Holly as one of the authors that did not even mention the Ferro name lol but it was a great book.
March 20, 2015
I was given this book as a gift from one of the co-authors, Stacey Mosteller. The first few chapters captured my heart and broke it at the same time. The main character, Genevieve, lost her husband while he was deployed. They were in a relationship for over 10 years and were trying very hard to have a baby. She found out she was pregnant on the same day that she found out her husband was killed. What a way to start off a book!!!! I was almost in tears feeling her pain. Moving forward to two years later, Genevieve is still grieving and is raising a baby. We are introduced to Daniel, who was hired by her husband years ago when he was a boy and he is now 21. He is a smoking hot boy....ooops he has definitely grown into a man now! I don't want to give away too much so you are just going to have to read the book :-)
My pros: I love the co-authors styles and how they mesh well throughout the book. They really write well together and I would love to read more books from them. The story flows very well, the writing style is easy and makes you feel comfortable.
The books tugs at your heartstrings and it makes the reader want to continue (even if it means not going to sleep that night lol)
I was going to put the mom in the cons section but the book had me yelling out loud at her so it actually made me change my mind and put it in the pros. She was a stubborn, bitchy woman who was very opinionated.
Daniel was mature for his age, which I liked. He wasn't too mature so that it would be unbelievable but he was a smart, young man who knew what he wanted.
Cons: I felt like the book was too short. I wanted more. I wanted to read more about Genevieve and Daniel. I wanted a little more connection between them so I could really invest into them when their relationship did take off. There was something missing (an extra chapter perhaps could have helped?). Once the relationship became more permanent, I felt like the book was over way too quick.
No epilogue??!!! This was a standalone so I felt like I needed that from this book especially since we didn't get to see much of their relationship until the end.
Overall 4 stars!!
My pros: I love the co-authors styles and how they mesh well throughout the book. They really write well together and I would love to read more books from them. The story flows very well, the writing style is easy and makes you feel comfortable.
The books tugs at your heartstrings and it makes the reader want to continue (even if it means not going to sleep that night lol)
I was going to put the mom in the cons section but the book had me yelling out loud at her so it actually made me change my mind and put it in the pros. She was a stubborn, bitchy woman who was very opinionated.
Daniel was mature for his age, which I liked. He wasn't too mature so that it would be unbelievable but he was a smart, young man who knew what he wanted.
Cons: I felt like the book was too short. I wanted more. I wanted to read more about Genevieve and Daniel. I wanted a little more connection between them so I could really invest into them when their relationship did take off. There was something missing (an extra chapter perhaps could have helped?). Once the relationship became more permanent, I felt like the book was over way too quick.
No epilogue??!!! This was a standalone so I felt like I needed that from this book especially since we didn't get to see much of their relationship until the end.
Overall 4 stars!!
July 22, 2014
Genevieve loses her husband on deployment only to find out she is pregnant. Sworn off love Gen decides to raise baby CJ on her own. Being a single mum is hard, so is fighting attraction, she can tell you that! Second Chances is a story about loss, heartbreak, difficult times, love lost & love found.
I enjoyed Second Chances, H.M Ward and Stacey are talented authors. They tell a story that is believable, Gen's story probably happens a lot more than people think. I can't imagine losing your husband on deployment. My dad was in the army and got deployed to Afghanistan along with other places, it was scary knowing he was in danger and could be hurt at any moment.
I felt sorry for Gen, losing her husband after finding out she was pregnant must have been horrific, my heart went out to her. She is strong though, instead of breaking down and asking people for help she soldiered on and brought up CJ on her own, definitely a strong-minded woman. I couldn't put my finger on it but there was something about her that bugged me, maybe it was nothing but I just didn't love her, she was okay, but nothing special.
Daniel the lawn boy is awesome! He's so caring and thoughtful, he's suffered some bad times but is still his own person when he could have just given in and done what was expected of him, I salute him. I loved how he was with CJ too, he's only 22 but seems much older and of course he's hot too ;). I couldn't fault him at all, he was my favourite character in the book.
Second Chances had me crying after only a few pages, that's hard to do. I usually don't cry until I've been dragged into the story but it was almost instantly with this one, that's how powerful the writing is. If you're a fan of contemporary romance and don't mind shedding a few tears you should read it.
**A copy was provided for review purposes**
Original review at: http://morphybooksblog.wordpress.com/...
I enjoyed Second Chances, H.M Ward and Stacey are talented authors. They tell a story that is believable, Gen's story probably happens a lot more than people think. I can't imagine losing your husband on deployment. My dad was in the army and got deployed to Afghanistan along with other places, it was scary knowing he was in danger and could be hurt at any moment.
I felt sorry for Gen, losing her husband after finding out she was pregnant must have been horrific, my heart went out to her. She is strong though, instead of breaking down and asking people for help she soldiered on and brought up CJ on her own, definitely a strong-minded woman. I couldn't put my finger on it but there was something about her that bugged me, maybe it was nothing but I just didn't love her, she was okay, but nothing special.
Daniel the lawn boy is awesome! He's so caring and thoughtful, he's suffered some bad times but is still his own person when he could have just given in and done what was expected of him, I salute him. I loved how he was with CJ too, he's only 22 but seems much older and of course he's hot too ;). I couldn't fault him at all, he was my favourite character in the book.
Second Chances had me crying after only a few pages, that's hard to do. I usually don't cry until I've been dragged into the story but it was almost instantly with this one, that's how powerful the writing is. If you're a fan of contemporary romance and don't mind shedding a few tears you should read it.
**A copy was provided for review purposes**
Original review at: http://morphybooksblog.wordpress.com/...
July 27, 2014
So I finally finished this stand alone novel. It took me a bit longer for a couple of reason but mostly because of my health.
I did have a crying fit and couldn't see when I first read it, I got a bit bored with it too which is so unlike anything I've ever experienced with Holly's work. Which leads me to believe that perhaps my chemistry with this second author is off. Or it could've been my health issues. Either way I am still giving it 5 stars for a few reasons...
To start, I was taken on a rollercoaster of emotions. It didn't surprise me that one second I'm laughing and the next I can't see only to almost spit my pop out from shock! Than anger, hurt and disappointment. I must say that at one point I was fed up with the constant drama about her Mom. I guess since I just lost my Mom recently I was a bit peeved by that and I honestly had to force myself to turn my eReader on again.
I was quite happy that I did - I guarantee you that you will go through the emotional motions - SERIOUSLY!!!! I thought I was done with the tears only for them to come back in the chapters closer to the end.
So in regular style I will give you a rundown of emotions to expect... This is like riding the Tilt-a-whirl ride at the fair. You start of slow, you get a couple swirls in and you get the tears rolling down your face to much so you wish you can get off only to do about 30 spins in a row that make you giggle, your tummy dip and just as it`s getting good and you`re giggling - it`s over... Pretty good summation, am I right???? Guess you need to read for yourself! Get on the titl-a-whirl with me to find out. I`ll even give you a special ticket if you ask ;)
One warming - before you open this book you better get your crying towel out or maybe 2!!!!
Excellent rollercoaster-fair ride for sure!!!!
I did have a crying fit and couldn't see when I first read it, I got a bit bored with it too which is so unlike anything I've ever experienced with Holly's work. Which leads me to believe that perhaps my chemistry with this second author is off. Or it could've been my health issues. Either way I am still giving it 5 stars for a few reasons...
To start, I was taken on a rollercoaster of emotions. It didn't surprise me that one second I'm laughing and the next I can't see only to almost spit my pop out from shock! Than anger, hurt and disappointment. I must say that at one point I was fed up with the constant drama about her Mom. I guess since I just lost my Mom recently I was a bit peeved by that and I honestly had to force myself to turn my eReader on again.
I was quite happy that I did - I guarantee you that you will go through the emotional motions - SERIOUSLY!!!! I thought I was done with the tears only for them to come back in the chapters closer to the end.
So in regular style I will give you a rundown of emotions to expect... This is like riding the Tilt-a-whirl ride at the fair. You start of slow, you get a couple swirls in and you get the tears rolling down your face to much so you wish you can get off only to do about 30 spins in a row that make you giggle, your tummy dip and just as it`s getting good and you`re giggling - it`s over... Pretty good summation, am I right???? Guess you need to read for yourself! Get on the titl-a-whirl with me to find out. I`ll even give you a special ticket if you ask ;)
One warming - before you open this book you better get your crying towel out or maybe 2!!!!
Excellent rollercoaster-fair ride for sure!!!!
July 23, 2014
This book was absolutely perfect! Second Chances pulled at my heart strings and had me ugly crying before I made it past the first chapter.
Genevieve (Gen) and Cade were high school sweethearts, first loves, everything to each other. They were so happy until the unthinkable happened and he didn't make it back from the war. Gen felt grief like no other. Devastated that Cade didn't even know she was pregnant with the child they had longed for for so many years.
Two years pass and she doesn't know how to move on. Her entire life centers around her young son, CJ, who is the spitting image of his father. Her family and friends keep pushing her to date and find someone. Gen finally gives into the pressure from her friends and goes out to a bar. She is saved from a drunken man by Daniel, her "lawn boy". Only he's no longer a boy, but a hot man.
Daniel is 10 years younger than Gen, but he is everything a man should be. He not only takes care of her yard, but he is always there to help take care of her and CJ too. Why has Gen never noticed this before? Gen has a hard time letting Cade go,but she is having feelings she hasn't felt in so long. Gen's insecurities and the pressure from her mother have her questioning just why someone like Dan would be interested in her. She doesn't know if she'll ever get her second chance at love.
You must read this touching book about loss, love, healing and discovering you can love again. Holly and Stacey did an amazing job on this book. I hope we get more collaboration from them in the future!
Genevieve (Gen) and Cade were high school sweethearts, first loves, everything to each other. They were so happy until the unthinkable happened and he didn't make it back from the war. Gen felt grief like no other. Devastated that Cade didn't even know she was pregnant with the child they had longed for for so many years.
Two years pass and she doesn't know how to move on. Her entire life centers around her young son, CJ, who is the spitting image of his father. Her family and friends keep pushing her to date and find someone. Gen finally gives into the pressure from her friends and goes out to a bar. She is saved from a drunken man by Daniel, her "lawn boy". Only he's no longer a boy, but a hot man.
Daniel is 10 years younger than Gen, but he is everything a man should be. He not only takes care of her yard, but he is always there to help take care of her and CJ too. Why has Gen never noticed this before? Gen has a hard time letting Cade go,but she is having feelings she hasn't felt in so long. Gen's insecurities and the pressure from her mother have her questioning just why someone like Dan would be interested in her. She doesn't know if she'll ever get her second chance at love.
You must read this touching book about loss, love, healing and discovering you can love again. Holly and Stacey did an amazing job on this book. I hope we get more collaboration from them in the future!
July 16, 2014
Wow that's what comes to mind when I read this book, and not because something spectacular happened, but I guess in its own way it did. This is a very real story with real emotions that any of us could deal with. That's what makes this story stay with you long after you read THE END.
Gen is a woman who built from a young love a whole family which was ripped away from her very cruelly and without warning due to war. This is something that happens every day! She picks herself up but doesn't know how to move on, how to let go of the past... Will people judge her if she doesn't grieve the right way? Can she be everything her son needs?
How does one even date after years? We read about her fears and self doubt which many women have gone through and we all have doubted our worth, image and beauty on some level we can sympathize with her.
It's heart breaking and tear jerking but it puts society and it's views into perspective - Dan was an amazing man who has dealt with hurt in his own way, who is loving, caring and giving as well as so strong and a great male role model for Gen's son. He understands her in a way that nobody else can because he has seen her struggle. But because of an age gap people judge, assume and talk... Happiness is happiness and I rooted for this couple to hold onto theirs with both hands and not let go.
I cried, I laughed, I angered, feared and finally delighted in this couple - Great reading
Awesome author collaboration
Gen is a woman who built from a young love a whole family which was ripped away from her very cruelly and without warning due to war. This is something that happens every day! She picks herself up but doesn't know how to move on, how to let go of the past... Will people judge her if she doesn't grieve the right way? Can she be everything her son needs?
How does one even date after years? We read about her fears and self doubt which many women have gone through and we all have doubted our worth, image and beauty on some level we can sympathize with her.
It's heart breaking and tear jerking but it puts society and it's views into perspective - Dan was an amazing man who has dealt with hurt in his own way, who is loving, caring and giving as well as so strong and a great male role model for Gen's son. He understands her in a way that nobody else can because he has seen her struggle. But because of an age gap people judge, assume and talk... Happiness is happiness and I rooted for this couple to hold onto theirs with both hands and not let go.
I cried, I laughed, I angered, feared and finally delighted in this couple - Great reading
Awesome author collaboration
July 21, 2014
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. I will keep this review spoiler free.
If ever there was a story that pulled at my heartstrings, it was this one. The authors created a complete story that was believable from beginning to end. I'm a fan of HM Ward. I enjoy reading fiction, but there's something about a story that every word could happen. I felt like this story could be one that a friend is telling me about another friend.
The first part of this story was very personal to me. My brother was deployed in the military. I know the worry and fear a family feels when one of their own is sent to a combat zone. Plus, I'm a mom. Those two things made reading Second Chances so real. I could literally feel Genny's emotions. I cried. I felt anger. I felt confusion. I wanted her mom to just LAY OFF! There is not a time line on grief, although some people feel there should be. I could relate to Genny's mom attire and mom body and insecurities. I loved how her friends were supportive and trying to help her.
Again, without spoilers, the crux of the problems in the story were also very real. Family meddles. Emotions flare. Logic and the heart don't always match. Those are REAL issues. The authors did a great job of helping Genny put her big girl panties on and make an effort to make a change.
I had reservations about the joint authoring, but it worked in this novel. Thanks for another enjoyable book!
If ever there was a story that pulled at my heartstrings, it was this one. The authors created a complete story that was believable from beginning to end. I'm a fan of HM Ward. I enjoy reading fiction, but there's something about a story that every word could happen. I felt like this story could be one that a friend is telling me about another friend.
The first part of this story was very personal to me. My brother was deployed in the military. I know the worry and fear a family feels when one of their own is sent to a combat zone. Plus, I'm a mom. Those two things made reading Second Chances so real. I could literally feel Genny's emotions. I cried. I felt anger. I felt confusion. I wanted her mom to just LAY OFF! There is not a time line on grief, although some people feel there should be. I could relate to Genny's mom attire and mom body and insecurities. I loved how her friends were supportive and trying to help her.
Again, without spoilers, the crux of the problems in the story were also very real. Family meddles. Emotions flare. Logic and the heart don't always match. Those are REAL issues. The authors did a great job of helping Genny put her big girl panties on and make an effort to make a change.
I had reservations about the joint authoring, but it worked in this novel. Thanks for another enjoyable book!
July 28, 2014
This was a nice change of pace for me, very sad.
A woman finds out she's pregnant, then a knock at the door tells her that her husband, Cade, has died at war. Now, he'll never know he has a son.
Gen, the woman in the book is living in a haze, but she's living. I'm pretty sure most women would have fallen apart and not have even survived. She's living for her son CJ. The woman is hilarious in the most uncomfortable way. I kept saying, "Oh my gosh, I'm so embarrassed for her." Cade was her high school sweetheart. So she's not been around any one romantically other than him in many years. Enter, 'lawn boy' Daniel. 10 years (at the least) younger than her that has been caring for her yard for the last few years, hired by her husband. He's kind of become her handy man. Fixing things as necessary. She hasn't really relied on anyone to help her with things since her husband passed.
Somehow this guy gets through to her and doesn't treat her like she's ridiculous and she enjoys this.
They become friends, of course she finds him attractive. She hasn't ever found any one other than her late husband attractive so it sends her for a loop. Making her babble and say the funniest things to him. I don't want to go on and spoil the book, but I really liked this book. It's really a heartbreaking story, but makes you realize even though life throws some unexpected things at you, you're strong enough to deal and that you deserve another chance.
A woman finds out she's pregnant, then a knock at the door tells her that her husband, Cade, has died at war. Now, he'll never know he has a son.
Gen, the woman in the book is living in a haze, but she's living. I'm pretty sure most women would have fallen apart and not have even survived. She's living for her son CJ. The woman is hilarious in the most uncomfortable way. I kept saying, "Oh my gosh, I'm so embarrassed for her." Cade was her high school sweetheart. So she's not been around any one romantically other than him in many years. Enter, 'lawn boy' Daniel. 10 years (at the least) younger than her that has been caring for her yard for the last few years, hired by her husband. He's kind of become her handy man. Fixing things as necessary. She hasn't really relied on anyone to help her with things since her husband passed.
Somehow this guy gets through to her and doesn't treat her like she's ridiculous and she enjoys this.
They become friends, of course she finds him attractive. She hasn't ever found any one other than her late husband attractive so it sends her for a loop. Making her babble and say the funniest things to him. I don't want to go on and spoil the book, but I really liked this book. It's really a heartbreaking story, but makes you realize even though life throws some unexpected things at you, you're strong enough to deal and that you deserve another chance.
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