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The Springs #2.5

Second Glances: Invitation to Eden

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We are very pleased to issue your Invitation to Eden, an exciting series coming to you in 2014 from 27 of the biggest names in romance. Join us as we take you on an exciting adventure to Eden, where anything... and everything goes!

**A Springs Novella**

When Kylie Wilson receives a mysterious invitation for an all expenses paid trip to a tropical, all inclusive resort, there's no doubt in her mind who it came from--Marcus Stone, the only man she thought she loved. The same man who'd promised her forever and then promptly left town to pursue his dream without so much as a backward glance.

Kylie owes it to herself to take a chance, and despite her conflicted feelings, she decides to risk her heart again and is soon jetting toward the island of Eden and the man she hopes will finally fill the void in her life.

But when she arrives, and it's not Marcus at all, but his much sexier twin brother, Malcolm, Kylie's more confused then ever. But on an island that is supposed to 'know exactly what you need', can Kylie open her body, mind, and more importantly--her heart to the idea that sometimes you have to take Second Glances?

**Second Glances can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone novel, but you will likely also enjoy the rest of The Springs series.**


THE SPRINGS: 

Book 1- Summer of Change (Trent and Samantha) 

Book 2 - Falling Into Forever (Rhys and Kari)

Book 3 - Winter's Burn (Slade and Beth) 

Book 4 - Midnight Springs (Jax and Bria)

122 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 9, 2014

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About the author

Elena Aitken

118 books1,008 followers
Elena Aitken is a USA Today Bestselling Author of more than forty romance and women’s fiction novels. Living a stone’s throw from the Rocky Mountains with her teenager twins, their two cats and a goofy rescue dog, Elena escapes into the mountains whenever life allows. She can often be found with her toes in the lake and a glass of wine in her hand, dreaming up her next book and working on her own happily ever after with her very own mountain man.

Read a free novella — https://dl.bookfunnel.com/vxuimdz0j8

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5 stars
75 (40%)
4 stars
67 (35%)
3 stars
37 (19%)
2 stars
6 (3%)
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2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Amanda.
222 reviews10 followers
July 6, 2014
I just have to start by saying, if this island is a real place... I WANT TO GO!

Kylie had a tough break up a few years back and is still trying to get over it. When she gets a mysterious invitation to visit a secluded island that promises to make all of her dreams come true she is a little skeptical. Even more mysterious is that the invitation isn't signed by anyone. Of course Kylie hopes that it is from Marcus as he is the only that knows about her dreams.

When Kylie arrives on the amazing island, she is more than shocked to see who the invitation really is from. She isn't sure that she can open up and move on with the future with someone that is so close to her past.

This island promises to give you everything you need and boy does it! This is not only a wonderful love story but the story will pull you in and make you want to experience everything right along with these characters. I really hope to see more of these characters in more of The Sprigs books, they are very addicting and I want more!
Profile Image for Barbara.
791 reviews6 followers
June 29, 2014
Love Eden-Sign me up!

It’s nice to read a short story once in awhile and submerse yourself in your own little fantasy world. This book is perfect for that. The story is about Kylie who gets an invitation to the island of Eden for a week long vacation. Though the invitation isn’t signed by anyone she believes it’s from a former lover, Marcus. She is very surprised when she gets to the island and realizes it isn’t from her former lover but his twin brother, Malcolm.

During her week on the island, Malcolm has everything planned out for her to enjoy her fantasy trip. There is an undeniable connection between the two of them and they have a great time of fun and love. Eventually, she comes to the knowledge that he is the one she has always loved not the other brother even when it comes out that Malcolm and his twin had played the old twin switching many years ago. The book was very well written with enjoyable characters. The description of the island made you feel that you were there. It was a good book that lets you go into a fantasy of a great vacation with a handsome man that treats you well. What women doesn’t want that?

I received this book for a review which had no bearing on my review.
Profile Image for Jodie Bivins.
169 reviews2 followers
May 23, 2017
Kylie comes out her door to find an invitation to Eden on her welcome mat.
It is signed by the one who's always loved you. She believes it is from Marcus
Stone a professional snowboarder, that she dated for awhile til he up and left
her behind. Kylie kept in touch with Marcus's twin brother Marcus. They have
remained friends through it all. Marcus lives in the city and is pretty successful.
Everyone tries to tell her it may not have been Marcus who sent the invitation,
but she really doesn't listen to them. Kylie arrives to the island with a note telling
to meet for dinner of the beach as she gets ready she finds a special dress left for
her to wear for dinner. As she heads to the beach she sees him in the distance as
she finally sees the face it looks like Marcus but it isn't it is Malcolm. He convinces
her to spend time with him. As the time goes on she finds she has feelings for Malcolm
and passions spark. Malcolm has secrets that may make Kylie change her mind about him.
How will she handle that the twins are coming back to town because Malcolm has
bought the ski lodge? Can they work out these complications? Eden will have to work
her magic for Kylie to continue to trust in Malcolm.
4 reviews
July 4, 2014
I thought Second Glances was a really good book! Hope to see more of this couple in the Springs Series. I thought it was interesting having an anonymous invitation to go on a trip and then she doesn't find out who invited her until she is there. And of course she fell in love!! I'm so glad it wasn't his brother!!! She deserves better. Eden sounds like a magical place to go!! Good job Elena Aitken, as usual ANOTHER HIT!!
5 reviews1 follower
July 11, 2014
I have read all of the Springs books. This is the first I have read in the Invitation to Eden collection. This novella is a fun, quick read. I finished it in one sitting. The romance was still believable, since you knew that Kylie and Malcolm were long time friends. I am hoping that Elena continues to follow up with these characters. While I am looking forward to the series returning to the Springs, I may have to book a trip tropical island in the meantime!
Profile Image for Melissa Addonizio.
58 reviews2 followers
June 21, 2014
I love this book she thought it was Markus and it was not and I wish I could have a getaway she lucky lol I really like how this ended and so romantic . I recommend all the books you write can't wait for the next
Profile Image for Diane.
14 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2014
I really enjoyed this book! I was really got caught off guard, so I loved the surprise and twists. The getaway sounds wonderful. The character Kylie will make you smile, worry for her, and be happy for her. Definitely a good read. Put it on your list as a to be read!
Profile Image for Donna.
290 reviews1 follower
July 1, 2014
I love the Springs Series and Second Glances did not disappoint! This storytook place a on the island of Eden and had a great love story that fit Kylie and Malcom perfectly. I really hope we hear more about this couple when we head back to Cedar Springs. A great story worth reading!
Profile Image for Holly.
6 reviews2 followers
July 11, 2014
This was a fantastic summer escapist read. Perfect for a quick afternoon read by the pool or beach. Just be prepared to be swept away. I received an advanced reader copy from the author.
1,338 reviews5 followers
May 24, 2026
Kylie gets a mysterious invitation to paradise but doesn't know for sure who sent it. Will she go?

Kylie has been nursing a heartbreak for two years since Marcus left in the middle of the night after they had talked about their dreams and future. Malcolm, his identical twin brother, has been in love with her for many years but didn't want to be the rebound guy so he left for the city to work. The remained close and talked frequently. When she get the invitation to Eden she assumes it is Marcus whom we hasn't heard from since he left. When her friends convince her to go and keep an open mind as to who it might be, she is more confused. Then when Malcolm shows up she is more confused. Will she believe in the "magic" of Eden that it gives you what you need? What will happen when Malcolm tell her the truth that he replaced his brother a couple times and the last time was when they sat and talked about their hopes, dreams, ANF their future this king he was Marcus?
1,365 reviews4 followers
March 5, 2026
A Sweet Novela

Fantasy Island, trust, truth and twins. What? 🤔 Marcus and Malcolm are identical twins. One is like Peter Pan and never truly grows up, not caring who he hurts because it never comes to mind. Malcolm is the more serious of the two and let's himself get roped into a "Parent Trap" moment because he loves Kylie. Kylie had dated Marcus, but fell in love with Malcolm during one of those swap moments. It only takes a trip to Eden, a fantasy Island, for all to come to light. No cheating or cliffhanger and it ends on a happy note. Enjoy 🤓
Profile Image for Lori.
609 reviews
May 13, 2020
Short and sweet - perfect little teaser to enjoy when you don’t have all day to read.
Profile Image for Karen Miracle.
171 reviews
March 28, 2021
I really loved the in this story. The author writes in a way that makes you feel like you've known the characters all of your life. Can't wait to read more of this series.
Profile Image for Clara Harding.
149 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2014
Since reading another book within the Invitation to Eden Series I have been really interested in the epic idea that all of these writers could come together to write about such a mysterious Island that is Magical, being able to weave it into their own current series novels with such ease. I must say I have never read a novel by Elena Aitken before but after reading Second Glances: Invitation to EdenSecond Glances: Invitation to Eden, I certainly will be!

Kylie has had her heart smashed to pieces by Marcus Stone her ex-lover, who she felt was the only man she ever loved. Till this day she had not moved on. Finding the golden envelope with the Invitation to Eden in it, an all-expenses paid trip makes her think of Marcus and the dreams they talked of sharing stirring old emotions and bringing home fresh doubts about her memories of love.

When her friends convince her to go regardless, even though she is so sure it’s him, she eventually relents, quickly packing and jumping onto the very short flight that takes you direct to Eden. Prepared to try and keep her heart open to the possibility of Love and the word “Trust” seemingly everywhere she dives off quickly to meet her Prince, but it’s not who she thinks it was………….. Can she agree to enjoy the vacation and “Trust” the Island, as it more than once said, “It Knows What she Wants, It Knows What She Needs” – Can she try and accept something were meant to be where others never were? Can she open her heart to someone new and be laid bare for him to see?

A moving tale of unrequited love that is sure to pierce your heart strings at every turn so be careful you will need tissues, you’ll cry at some point – I did. A tale of Love this True, Pure, Honest and finally in the Open is worthy of a fist bump and a small cry! My only regret was that as Novellas, The Invitation to Eden Stories are so short, there is much room for a larger novel here, an opportunity missed this time but explored at a future date? Who knows?! Definitely a 4.5 Star but only because of the length.
Profile Image for MsRomanticReads.
799 reviews190 followers
March 28, 2015

Second Glances by Elena Aitken
Invitation to Eden #12
Part of a Series: The Springs #3.5
Length: 10 Chapters

*Purchased and read as part of THE BAD BOYS OF EDEN: Billionaires, Alphas, Bikers, and Doms Boxed Set.

At first I thought Elena Aitken was a new to me author, but while browsing her Goodreads page, it turns out I had read her before...in 2012. I read Nothing Stays In Vegas, and I still remember that story to this day (I just didn't remember the author's name #fail). Anyway, that might explain why I enjoyed Second Glances as well.

Poor Kylie. Even though her ex-boyfriend Marcus had stuck away like a coward two years ago thus ending their relationship and breaking her heart, Kylie never moved on. Even though her thoughts and actions after receiving the mysterious invitation smacked of denial, and she obviously missed the subtle hints her friends were throwing at her, she harbored the hope that it was from him. Perhaps he was sorry and wanted her back or she'd at least get some answers.

I had mixed feelings about Kylie, mainly because I had hoped her main motive for going to Eden was to get closure and finally put Marcus behind her and find someone worthy of her. The way her friends handled her with what seemed like kid gloves gave me the impression that she was cherished by them, but that she was also somewhat naive, perhaps somewhat fragile.

While the identity of the sender was written on the wall from the beginning, it was Malcolm's side of the story and his character overall that sold it for me. That twist was utterly unpredictable, a little heart-breaking on both sides, but I'm glad Kylie wised up about everything and felt he deserved the chance to make things right for both of them. The romance was sweet with Malcolm being a little shy but ready to go after what he wanted. Even with his fear of losing her forever over the past, I thought he was rather gentlemanly to give her time to process the bombshell revelation.

The sex between them was also pretty hot. My favorite moment of the story had to do with their dive, the shipwreck's history and the ring Malcolm found with the engraving. Talk about fate *swoon*
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,371 reviews39 followers
May 31, 2015
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland

Second Glances was an alright novella. Things move quickly and some things were resolved too easily, but it was fun and light.

Kylie has had a thing for Marcus since she first saw him. Unfortunately he left without a word after a wonderful night planning their future together. When Kylie gets an invite to Eden, a tropical island that has everything you need, she thinks it has to be Marcus coming back to be with her again. She figures she has to give him a second chance since he obviously went to a lot of trouble to put this together.

Well when she shows up it is not Marcus who is there. It is someone else who she never really saw for who he really was. Things are a bit strange at first, but the guy is super sweet and trying to let her have all the time she needs to get everything right in her head. I mean she has to figure out if she wants to give it a go with this guy or not. Really right from the beginning when you find out who it is you can see what happened those years ago when Kylie got her heart broken. I would have expected it to take a little more time to wrap everything up as what happened would have not been too cool with me, but Kylie was okay with so that is fine. Apparently there is a book that comes after this with a continuation of this couples story, but I am not sure I want to read it. I liked them in this short story and I don't want to see things get messed up. I might read it soon though, we shall see.
Profile Image for Cheryl Sanders.
2,268 reviews32 followers
January 9, 2015
4.5 Star Review
Kylie Wilson was in love with Marcus Stone until he abruptly left two years ago to pursue a career in snow skiing. She stayed close to his twin brother Malcolm and over the last year, they spoke less and less about Marcus during their weekly phone calls. One day Kylie received an invitation to the island of Eden and it was signed, The one who's always loved you. Naturally, Kylie assumed it was Marcus.

I love the Invitation to Eden series. The reader can always count on that "feel good" feeling at the end of the book. Elena Aitken did not disappoint. One thing you must remember about Eden is that the island always knows what you want and need, even if you have yet to realize it. Kylie and Malcolm's story was very sweet and romantic. I look forward to more from this series and this talented author.

*free copy gifted for honest review
**originally reviewed for welovekink(dot)com
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Blog.
5,616 reviews276 followers
August 24, 2014
Second Glances is a wonderful, quick read. The author starts right into the story

from the first few pages and it flows fabulously.

Kylie Wilson lives in mountain town. She is still grieving the loss of her first love.

One day she receives an anonymous invitation to a tropical island. Immediately she

thinks it is from her first love and that he sent it to get her back.

Taking a chance, she heads out to the island to meet whoever sent her the invite. To

her surprise it is not Marcus, but the man she realizes she is actually in love with.

Confusion causes Kylie to doubt everything, but after spending a few days with this

man, she realizes that he is her true love and forever.

This story was intriguing and sweet. The author did an awesome job with such a

short story. I definitely recommend this book!!
806 reviews9 followers
July 19, 2014
The island of Eden is magical! Kylie Wilson receives a mysterious invitation for an all expense trip to a tropical island paradise. She believes it is from the only man she has loved Marcus Stone. When he left Kylie he never looked back. So it is with mixed emotions she accepts. Just imagine Kylie's surprise when she learns that her mystery guy is Malcolm Stone, Marcus gorgeous sexy twin brother. Kylie will learn that the island of Eden always know what she needs, but will she give Malcolm a second glance? I would highly, highly recommend this book to everyone!
Profile Image for Rhonda.
89 reviews
August 20, 2014
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this book. It is the first book in the series that I have read. Kylie and Malcolm are great characters and I found myself wanting to see their relationship develop into their HEA. The island setting was gorgeous and had me wishing to be there myself.

This is the second book of Elena's that I have read and it will not be the last. I am looking forward to reading the Springs series in order to get to know other characters like Kylie and Malcolm.
Profile Image for Shirley.
848 reviews
September 12, 2014
I like this book but the only down fall its too short
Kylie has been hurt over her boyfriend Marcus that just up't and left in the night and has heard nothing from him but has kept in contact with his twin brother Malcolm.
She gets an Invitation to Eden and wonders who its from is it from Marcus and when she agrees to go she gets the fastacy she always dreamt about but for her furture she has to get through deceptions and lies but who will her future be with.
Profile Image for Phyllo.
10 reviews
April 3, 2016
This was not my favorite. Anything with smug looks, smirks and mysterious smiles irritates the crap out of me. There was plenty of irritation! Why would anyone fly off to an unknown place to meet an unknown person? That seems silly and dangerous, not fun and mysterious.

I read two other books in the series and they were okay, but not this one. They all could use some proofreading/editing. (More irritation!) I'll just take my crabby behind off to find something else to read.
Profile Image for Constance.
57 reviews1 follower
January 31, 2015
Elena has done it again. I loved reading the story of Kylie and Malcolm and how they realize their love in Eden. This is the second book in the Eden series that I have read and I love this mysterious island. Second Glances has the right amount of passion and romance without being too lovey dovey.. I cant wait to read more of their story in the new Stone Summit series by Elena!!
Profile Image for Chasing Away Reality.
531 reviews30 followers
November 8, 2020
This was a great addition to the Invitation to Eden series. I love the island and the way it transforms into what people need.

I love Kylie and Malcolm!! One of my favorite tropes is friends to lovers. Elena did an excellent job of bringing these two characters together. And don't miss out on the rest of their story in Summit of Desire.
Profile Image for Maryann Fox.
799 reviews18 followers
Read
February 25, 2015
Loved it- this was a prequel of sorts to Summit of Desire an tells how Malcolm and Kylie fall in love and also mentions another couple: Jenna and Cain which are featured in Invitation to Eden: Hydrotherapy which I will read next
Profile Image for Karry.
1,420 reviews21 followers
June 27, 2015
Awesome!! I read this book for the Spring series. Now that I have, I must read the other Eden series books! This was a great intro into Malcolm and Kylie's story. I can't wait to see where they are going in the next Springs installment.
Profile Image for Karry.
1,420 reviews21 followers
Read
June 27, 2015
Awesome

I read this book for the Spring series. Now that I have, I must read the other Eden series books! This was a great intro into Malcolm and Kylie's story. I can't wait to see where they are going in the next Springs installment.
989 reviews9 followers
January 25, 2016
I wish I could get this book is it because I live in the UK that I cannot get it to download
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews