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The Second Story Bookshop
She inherits the bookshop of her dreams . . . But she has to run it with the ex she vowed never to speak with again.
Shelby Thatcher adores working in the charming small-town bookshop her grandmother opened years ago. Since high school she's helped Gram turn the shop into a community hub for book lovers in the lakeside town of Granville, NC. When her beloved grandma passes away, Shelby inherits the bookstore. But to her shock, Gram leaves half ownership to Gray Briggs, the man who broke Shelby's heart years ago.
Granville residents have been vilifying Gray as long as he can remember. After graduating high school he couldn't skip town fast enough, even though it meant leaving the girl he'd fallen deeply in love with and alienating her family once and for all. Now he's back, the beneficiary of his elderly friend's will. Facing the town's animosity is difficult, but seeing Shelby again is sheer torture. No one could ever stir his heart the way she did.
As the adversaries are forced to work together, Gram's beyond-the-grave scheme is working--Shelby's old feelings for Gray begin to resurface. But the problems that destroyed their relationship before still remain, and a new one surfaces--one that threatens Gram's beloved bookshop. Is their love doomed to fail again, or will they find a way to make it work this time around?
Shelby Thatcher adores working in the charming small-town bookshop her grandmother opened years ago. Since high school she's helped Gram turn the shop into a community hub for book lovers in the lakeside town of Granville, NC. When her beloved grandma passes away, Shelby inherits the bookstore. But to her shock, Gram leaves half ownership to Gray Briggs, the man who broke Shelby's heart years ago.
Granville residents have been vilifying Gray as long as he can remember. After graduating high school he couldn't skip town fast enough, even though it meant leaving the girl he'd fallen deeply in love with and alienating her family once and for all. Now he's back, the beneficiary of his elderly friend's will. Facing the town's animosity is difficult, but seeing Shelby again is sheer torture. No one could ever stir his heart the way she did.
As the adversaries are forced to work together, Gram's beyond-the-grave scheme is working--Shelby's old feelings for Gray begin to resurface. But the problems that destroyed their relationship before still remain, and a new one surfaces--one that threatens Gram's beloved bookshop. Is their love doomed to fail again, or will they find a way to make it work this time around?
368 pages, Paperback
First published October 7, 2025
378 people are currently reading
16552 people want to read
About the author
Denise Hunter
90 books4,817 followersDenise Hunter is the award-winning author of more than 40 novels, three of which have been adapted into Hallmark movies.
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest and four beautiful grandchildren.
Denise gives away books and gifts cards in every monthly newsletter! Subscribe here to be eligible: https://www.denisehunterbooks.com
Denise writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest and four beautiful grandchildren.
Denise gives away books and gifts cards in every monthly newsletter! Subscribe here to be eligible: https://www.denisehunterbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,163 reviews
Did not finish
July 29, 2025DNF 20% review: I have really enjoyed several of Denise's books - specifically The Summer of You and Me was 5 Stars and I enjoyed A Novel Proposal and Love, Unscripted.
This book releases in October. I was really excited to pick this up because I love the premise....an inheritance twist, a cozy small-town bookshop, and a second chance romance sounded right up my alley. Denise Hunter’s writing style pulled me in quickly, and I was ready to see how Shelby and Gray’s story would unfold. Shelby and Gray dated many years ago, didn't work out, she inherits her Gram's bookshop after she passes away and Gray gets the other half.
However, one thing took me out of the story pretty early on. Shelby already has a boyfriend, Logan, and they’ve been dating for five months. I flipped ahead to see when that would resolve, and the breakup doesn’t happen until around 66%. I personally have convictions about reading romances where one of the characters is already in a relationship for a significant portion of the book, so I decided to set this one aside. I don't consider that a spoiler because it's obvious the happy ending is supposed to be between Gray and Shelby.
I think readers who don’t mind that setup and enjoy second-chance romance tropes will still enjoy this one, it just wasn’t the right fit for me.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for a copy of the audiobook and ebook to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
This book releases in October. I was really excited to pick this up because I love the premise....an inheritance twist, a cozy small-town bookshop, and a second chance romance sounded right up my alley. Denise Hunter’s writing style pulled me in quickly, and I was ready to see how Shelby and Gray’s story would unfold. Shelby and Gray dated many years ago, didn't work out, she inherits her Gram's bookshop after she passes away and Gray gets the other half.
However, one thing took me out of the story pretty early on. Shelby already has a boyfriend, Logan, and they’ve been dating for five months. I flipped ahead to see when that would resolve, and the breakup doesn’t happen until around 66%. I personally have convictions about reading romances where one of the characters is already in a relationship for a significant portion of the book, so I decided to set this one aside. I don't consider that a spoiler because it's obvious the happy ending is supposed to be between Gray and Shelby.
I think readers who don’t mind that setup and enjoy second-chance romance tropes will still enjoy this one, it just wasn’t the right fit for me.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for a copy of the audiobook and ebook to read and review. All thoughts are my own.
October 9, 2025
EXCERPT: Shelby arrived in the doorway and blinked at the dark-haired man sitting at the conference table.
Grayson Briggs.
Her feet slammed to a halt. She gaped at him. Snapped her lips shut.
Gray eased to his feet, gaze locked on her like a laser. He had the nerve to look well rested and handsome. even under the harsh fluorescent lights.
He was supposed to be gone by now, not hanging around Granville making her nerves twitch. And certainly not here at what would be the reading of her grandmother's will.
ABOUT 'THE SECOND STORY BOOKSHOP': She inherits the bookshop of her dreams . . . But she has to run it with the ex she vowed never to speak with again.
Shelby Thatcher adores working in the charming small-town bookshop her grandmother opened years ago. Since high school she's helped Gram turn the shop into a community hub for book lovers in the lakeside town of Granville, NC. When her beloved grandma passes away, Shelby inherits the bookstore. But to her shock, Gram leaves half ownership to Gray Briggs, the man who broke Shelby's heart years ago.
Granville residents have been vilifying Gray as long as he can remember. After graduating high school he couldn't skip town fast enough, even though it meant leaving the girl he'd fallen deeply in love with and alienating her family once and for all. Now he's back, the beneficiary of his elderly friend's will. Facing the town's animosity is difficult, but seeing Shelby again is sheer torture. No one could ever stir his heart the way she did.
As the adversaries are forced to work together, Gram's beyond-the-grave scheme is working--Shelby's old feelings for Gray begin to resurface. But the problems that destroyed their relationship before still remain, and a new one surfaces--one that threatens Gram's beloved bookshop. Is their love doomed to fail again, or will they find a way to make it work this time around?
MY THOUGHTS: A story of grief, long held grudges and second chances.
The Second Story Bookshop pulled at my heartstrings right from the beginning. Shelby's pride sure isn't going to allow her to take a second fall no matter what her heart feels.
What an emotional roller-coaster this read is. There is grief from losing Gram. Annoyance and confusion over the terms of her will. Hostility towards Gray from Shelby's family and most of the townspeople of Granville. Family drama as her brother Caleb and her father continue to butt heads and antagonise one another. And there's poor Shelby stuck in the middle, having to work with the man she once loved and who abandoned her, while trying to keep the peace in her family.
I was longing for these two to find their happy-ever-after as they navigated their strained working relationship, business setbacks, and the town's blatant hostility towards Gray which, at one point, becomes downright dangerous.
The Second Story Bookshop is a story filled with the complexities of love, loyalties, family and a town bent on revenge.
I combined reading with listening to The Second Story Bookshop written by Denise Hunter and beautifully narrated by Kim Churchill. I enjoyed both formats.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#TheSecondStoryBookshop #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: DENISE HUNTER writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and Zondervan Fiction Audio for providing both an audio and e-ARC of The Second Story Bookshop written by Denise Hunter and narrated by Kim Churchill. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Grayson Briggs.
Her feet slammed to a halt. She gaped at him. Snapped her lips shut.
Gray eased to his feet, gaze locked on her like a laser. He had the nerve to look well rested and handsome. even under the harsh fluorescent lights.
He was supposed to be gone by now, not hanging around Granville making her nerves twitch. And certainly not here at what would be the reading of her grandmother's will.
ABOUT 'THE SECOND STORY BOOKSHOP': She inherits the bookshop of her dreams . . . But she has to run it with the ex she vowed never to speak with again.
Shelby Thatcher adores working in the charming small-town bookshop her grandmother opened years ago. Since high school she's helped Gram turn the shop into a community hub for book lovers in the lakeside town of Granville, NC. When her beloved grandma passes away, Shelby inherits the bookstore. But to her shock, Gram leaves half ownership to Gray Briggs, the man who broke Shelby's heart years ago.
Granville residents have been vilifying Gray as long as he can remember. After graduating high school he couldn't skip town fast enough, even though it meant leaving the girl he'd fallen deeply in love with and alienating her family once and for all. Now he's back, the beneficiary of his elderly friend's will. Facing the town's animosity is difficult, but seeing Shelby again is sheer torture. No one could ever stir his heart the way she did.
As the adversaries are forced to work together, Gram's beyond-the-grave scheme is working--Shelby's old feelings for Gray begin to resurface. But the problems that destroyed their relationship before still remain, and a new one surfaces--one that threatens Gram's beloved bookshop. Is their love doomed to fail again, or will they find a way to make it work this time around?
MY THOUGHTS: A story of grief, long held grudges and second chances.
The Second Story Bookshop pulled at my heartstrings right from the beginning. Shelby's pride sure isn't going to allow her to take a second fall no matter what her heart feels.
What an emotional roller-coaster this read is. There is grief from losing Gram. Annoyance and confusion over the terms of her will. Hostility towards Gray from Shelby's family and most of the townspeople of Granville. Family drama as her brother Caleb and her father continue to butt heads and antagonise one another. And there's poor Shelby stuck in the middle, having to work with the man she once loved and who abandoned her, while trying to keep the peace in her family.
I was longing for these two to find their happy-ever-after as they navigated their strained working relationship, business setbacks, and the town's blatant hostility towards Gray which, at one point, becomes downright dangerous.
The Second Story Bookshop is a story filled with the complexities of love, loyalties, family and a town bent on revenge.
I combined reading with listening to The Second Story Bookshop written by Denise Hunter and beautifully narrated by Kim Churchill. I enjoyed both formats.
⭐⭐⭐.8
#TheSecondStoryBookshop #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: DENISE HUNTER writes heartwarming, small-town romances, peopled with layered characters who have real-life issues. Her readers enjoy the vicarious thrill of falling in love and the promise of a happily-ever-after sigh as they savor the final pages of her books.
In 1996, Denise began her first novel, writing while her children napped. Her books contain a strong romantic element, and her husband says he provides all her romantic material, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too!
Denise and her husband live in Indiana, where they raised three sons, and are currently enjoying an empty nest.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and Zondervan Fiction Audio for providing both an audio and e-ARC of The Second Story Bookshop written by Denise Hunter and narrated by Kim Churchill. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
June 9, 2025
The premise of inheriting something that needs to be shared with someone you don’t want back in your life was intriguing. I enjoyed the author’s exploration of abandonment, meddling, bullying and shame. Most of all, I appreciated her spotlighting the feeling of belonging.
The story did feel organic, but something about the romance arc didn’t click for me. I don’t think the right balance between tension and payoff was achieved. I liked Shelby and Grayson, but I wonder if perhaps their arc wasn't fully developed. The conversation-heavy prose made me uncomfortable because (1) I could see that the author was trying to make her characters feel real and dynamic, and (2) because I could feel the momentum slowing. The ‘fluff’ was glaring at me, and I found myself skimming. When I willingly set down a book, I know there’s something not quite right.
The Summer of You and Me, Wildflower Falls, and Bookshop by the Sea were all 5-star reads for me. Character development and less dialogue would have elevated A Novel Proposal and The Second Story Bookshop for me.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
The story did feel organic, but something about the romance arc didn’t click for me. I don’t think the right balance between tension and payoff was achieved. I liked Shelby and Grayson, but I wonder if perhaps their arc wasn't fully developed. The conversation-heavy prose made me uncomfortable because (1) I could see that the author was trying to make her characters feel real and dynamic, and (2) because I could feel the momentum slowing. The ‘fluff’ was glaring at me, and I found myself skimming. When I willingly set down a book, I know there’s something not quite right.
The Summer of You and Me, Wildflower Falls, and Bookshop by the Sea were all 5-star reads for me. Character development and less dialogue would have elevated A Novel Proposal and The Second Story Bookshop for me.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
October 7, 2025
The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter is a heartwarming story that navigates emotional challenges while celebrating the power of second chances. This book blends cozy charm and themes of healing. I listened to the audiobook of this book, narrated by Kim Churchill.
The story centers on Shelby, who inherits her beloved Gram's charming bookshop in a small North Carolina town. However, she quickly runs into her old flame, Grayson, who is now back in town. The book shines in its exploration of their complex relationship, moving from exes to friends, and finally to something more.
What makes this romance so compelling is the weight the characters carry. Grayson has a layered, complicated past, dealt bad hand after bad hand, being the small town's bad boy by association, having dealt with a series of misfortunes stemming from a tragic accident in the town's past. You genuinely feel for him as you learn about his struggles.
Watching Shelby and Grayson choose love and happiness, while navigating grief and letting go of generational trauma and abandonment, is incredibly rewarding. With a dual timeline, the story features flashbacks to their high school days working together in the bookshop with Gram. This history adds wonderful depth to their present-day journey and drives their slow-burn romance over time.
The small-town bookshop is enchanting, and I loved the adorable rescue dog, and Chaucer the cat! I enjoyed the narration (mostly listened at 2x speed) and found the story to be a consistently clear and engaging listen. This is a wonderful choice for a cozy fall read that has charm and heart.
Thank you to the HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) and HarperCollins Focus (HCF), and Thomas Nelson Fiction for an advanced reader copy of this audiobook by Denise Hunter for review consideration via NetGalley. This review is voluntary. All opinions are my own.
Perfect for fans of:
📚 Books about charming bookshops and the love of the romance genre
🍂 Small town settings
🍁 Seasonal fall Hallmark movies
💛 Slow burn love stories
❤️ Second-chance romance
🎃 The comforting vibes of Gilmore Girls
⏳️ Dual POV and Past / Present timeline stories
🐾 Adorable animals (a rescue dog and a bookstore cat!)
The story centers on Shelby, who inherits her beloved Gram's charming bookshop in a small North Carolina town. However, she quickly runs into her old flame, Grayson, who is now back in town. The book shines in its exploration of their complex relationship, moving from exes to friends, and finally to something more.
What makes this romance so compelling is the weight the characters carry. Grayson has a layered, complicated past, dealt bad hand after bad hand, being the small town's bad boy by association, having dealt with a series of misfortunes stemming from a tragic accident in the town's past. You genuinely feel for him as you learn about his struggles.
Watching Shelby and Grayson choose love and happiness, while navigating grief and letting go of generational trauma and abandonment, is incredibly rewarding. With a dual timeline, the story features flashbacks to their high school days working together in the bookshop with Gram. This history adds wonderful depth to their present-day journey and drives their slow-burn romance over time.
The small-town bookshop is enchanting, and I loved the adorable rescue dog, and Chaucer the cat! I enjoyed the narration (mostly listened at 2x speed) and found the story to be a consistently clear and engaging listen. This is a wonderful choice for a cozy fall read that has charm and heart.
Thank you to the HarperCollins Christian Publishing (HCCP) and HarperCollins Focus (HCF), and Thomas Nelson Fiction for an advanced reader copy of this audiobook by Denise Hunter for review consideration via NetGalley. This review is voluntary. All opinions are my own.
Perfect for fans of:
📚 Books about charming bookshops and the love of the romance genre
🍂 Small town settings
🍁 Seasonal fall Hallmark movies
💛 Slow burn love stories
❤️ Second-chance romance
🎃 The comforting vibes of Gilmore Girls
⏳️ Dual POV and Past / Present timeline stories
🐾 Adorable animals (a rescue dog and a bookstore cat!)
September 18, 2025
I received a free copy of, The Second Story Bookshop, by Denise Hunter, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Shelby Thatcher inherits her beloved grandmother bookshop in North Carolina, but so does her ex Gray Briggs. This was a sweet story about second chances, we all need them now and again.
September 20, 2025
I feel duped as this book should have been labelled as 'Christian Fiction'.
While not the biggest theme in the book, Christianity/religion, the army, and the police played a too big part to ignore when tagging a book for review. Also, not too sure about romance, perhaps women's fiction would have been enough.
Still, I decided to keep going for the cosy looking cover and the cute small-town vibes.
I am not sure if I am pleased with that decision.
The first half was OK and fun to listen to while doing various tasks (even with the slightly distracting time jumps in the chapters set back in high school), but the way the town kept their grudge for Gray and actively worked to get him out of time (permanently!!!) was just too much for me.
Shelby and Gray were very bland, I did not like how she treated her boyfriend while basically falling back in love with high school sweetheart Gray, the rest of the family was OK I guess, but the rest of the town's people were both boring and of the top.
The emotional issues of abandonment, grief, unfulfilled futures, family deceit, etc. were 'nicely' covered but only muddled the story for me.
I received an ARC of this book (thanks!) and these are my own opinions.
Read as an audiobook.
While not the biggest theme in the book, Christianity/religion, the army, and the police played a too big part to ignore when tagging a book for review. Also, not too sure about romance, perhaps women's fiction would have been enough.
Still, I decided to keep going for the cosy looking cover and the cute small-town vibes.
I am not sure if I am pleased with that decision.
The first half was OK and fun to listen to while doing various tasks (even with the slightly distracting time jumps in the chapters set back in high school), but the way the town kept their grudge for Gray and actively worked to get him out of time (permanently!!!) was just too much for me.
Shelby and Gray were very bland, I did not like how she treated her boyfriend while basically falling back in love with high school sweetheart Gray, the rest of the family was OK I guess, but the rest of the town's people were both boring and of the top.
The emotional issues of abandonment, grief, unfulfilled futures, family deceit, etc. were 'nicely' covered but only muddled the story for me.
I received an ARC of this book (thanks!) and these are my own opinions.
Read as an audiobook.
November 1, 2025
Why would Gray be at the reading of Gram's will?
Gray was Shelby's long-departed boyfriend and the pariah of the small town.
He said he was here because the attorney invited him, and everyone found out why.
Gray had inherited 49% of the bookshop. How can that be?
Shelby made Gray sign a form that had him giving up his share and giving her full ownership.
She did agree to allow Gray stay on to check the books, and he finds finds that the bookshop is in deep debt.
Gray offers to help her get the bookstore profitable and out of debt with some changes, but how will that work out since they both still have feelings for each other after all these years?
We get to go back to their teenage years to see how everything played out, and to present day as the town still doesn't want Gray there and neither does Shelby.
See what happens in this sweet, emotional read about books, forgiving, and relationships.
I enjoyed my first read by this author. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
Gray was Shelby's long-departed boyfriend and the pariah of the small town.
He said he was here because the attorney invited him, and everyone found out why.
Gray had inherited 49% of the bookshop. How can that be?
Shelby made Gray sign a form that had him giving up his share and giving her full ownership.
She did agree to allow Gray stay on to check the books, and he finds finds that the bookshop is in deep debt.
Gray offers to help her get the bookstore profitable and out of debt with some changes, but how will that work out since they both still have feelings for each other after all these years?
We get to go back to their teenage years to see how everything played out, and to present day as the town still doesn't want Gray there and neither does Shelby.
See what happens in this sweet, emotional read about books, forgiving, and relationships.
I enjoyed my first read by this author. 5/5
Thank you to the publisher for a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
September 14, 2025
A sweet romance filled with wonderful characters. The heroine has inherited her grandmother’s bookstore, but it’s not all she expected. Instead of getting it out right, Shelby has to share it with her former love Gray. This is not at all what she expected, and her family and friends are not excited about this development. Told with scenes that look back at their high school love, Shelby and Gray navigate saving The second story bookstore, and discovering what could be possible for them. I truly enjoyed this wonderful story.
September 11, 2025
Nothing revolutionary or unique, but it was a cute story. Something to keep me entertained while waking, doing laundry, and tidying up my house this week. If you're needing something to read that has Fall vibes, this one would fit that.
September 25, 2025
3.5 stars!
This was a sweet second chance romance with all the fall-cozy vibes you could ask for. While nothing about the story felt particularly groundbreaking, it still delivered a heartwarming journey that kept me engaged. I especially enjoyed the dual timelines—they added a nice layer of character development and made the reunion feel more meaningful. I also appreciated that the obstacles weren’t just the tired old miscommunication trope—there were some fresh challenges that gave the story a little extra spark.
And if you’re an audiobook fan, the narrator absolutely nailed it. She brought the characters to life in a way that made the story even warmer and more engaging.
This is a perfect companion for a cozy autumn day—it’s a delightful, heartfelt read!
** I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the author and publisher! **
This was a sweet second chance romance with all the fall-cozy vibes you could ask for. While nothing about the story felt particularly groundbreaking, it still delivered a heartwarming journey that kept me engaged. I especially enjoyed the dual timelines—they added a nice layer of character development and made the reunion feel more meaningful. I also appreciated that the obstacles weren’t just the tired old miscommunication trope—there were some fresh challenges that gave the story a little extra spark.
And if you’re an audiobook fan, the narrator absolutely nailed it. She brought the characters to life in a way that made the story even warmer and more engaging.
This is a perfect companion for a cozy autumn day—it’s a delightful, heartfelt read!
** I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to the author and publisher! **
September 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️s — Shelby Thatcher and Grayson Briggs fell for each other their senior year of high school—but their young love couldn’t survive the odds stacked against them. Gray was painted as the town troublemaker—a reputation he unjustly earned due to the misdeeds of his alcoholic father. To escape the town that hated him, he left Shelby behind to nurse a broken heart.
A little over a decade later, they are reunited after the death of her grandmother who left them spilt ownership of her beloved bookshop. Shelby and her family are dumbfounded, but when Gray offers his accounting assistance while she looks for someone to take on that role in the business, she begins to see how much he’s still like the guy she fell in love with—and the ways he’s grown. Can Shelby open her heart and trust the man who caused the greatest pain she’d ever endured?
This is my second Denise Hunter book and I’m a fan! I enjoyed the story evolution and pacing. I’m a justice-lover through and through and was so riled up over the town’s treatment of Gray. This read definitely had me in my feels!
If you enjoy second chance romances, small town settings, and book-selling MCs, add this one to your call TBR list!
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the ALC! All opinions are my own.
A little over a decade later, they are reunited after the death of her grandmother who left them spilt ownership of her beloved bookshop. Shelby and her family are dumbfounded, but when Gray offers his accounting assistance while she looks for someone to take on that role in the business, she begins to see how much he’s still like the guy she fell in love with—and the ways he’s grown. Can Shelby open her heart and trust the man who caused the greatest pain she’d ever endured?
This is my second Denise Hunter book and I’m a fan! I enjoyed the story evolution and pacing. I’m a justice-lover through and through and was so riled up over the town’s treatment of Gray. This read definitely had me in my feels!
If you enjoy second chance romances, small town settings, and book-selling MCs, add this one to your call TBR list!
Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the ALC! All opinions are my own.
July 12, 2025
Loved this story about Shelly who helped her grandmother in the bookshop she started in Granville South Carolina. When she passed she let 51%of the bookshop and 49% to Gray. Gray is not accepted well in this town as his Dad murdered someone . He left town as soon as he could and made a name for himself in Riverbend. He did come back to Shelly with the bookshop despite the way people still treated him. He actually gave her his shares. See how they worked together to keep the bookshop thriving. DId her and Shelly get back together and did the town finally accept him. You must read this book to find out. A GREAT READ.
September 27, 2025
I have always wanted to read a book by Denise Hunter and this sounded right up my alley. A second chance romance about a Bookshop inheritance in the small town of Granville NC. I went the audiobook route for this one and I really loved the narrator. She was articulate and clear and she brought all the emotion to the story.
Shelby works at her Grams Bookshop and loves it, and the community loves it too. When her Gram passes away, she inherits the Bookshop. But there's one catch! Her Gram also left half of the ownership to her ex-boyfriend Gray. She is definitely shocked. But once they start working together, the old spark she felt for him so long ago, seems to still be there. I loved getting the snippets of their relationship in high school and seeing how they have grown. Such a sweet read. I'll definitely need to read more of Hunter's books.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted audiobook. All opinions are my own.
Shelby works at her Grams Bookshop and loves it, and the community loves it too. When her Gram passes away, she inherits the Bookshop. But there's one catch! Her Gram also left half of the ownership to her ex-boyfriend Gray. She is definitely shocked. But once they start working together, the old spark she felt for him so long ago, seems to still be there. I loved getting the snippets of their relationship in high school and seeing how they have grown. Such a sweet read. I'll definitely need to read more of Hunter's books.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted audiobook. All opinions are my own.
June 19, 2025
Pretty sure this was my first Denise Hunter book... but definitely not my last! I started it late, stayed up way too long, then woke up early just to finish. All the feels with this one.
I loved the way the story moved between past and present. It didn’t slow things down, it filled in all the emotional gaps and made me believe in the chemistry between Shelby and Gray, then and now. If soulmates are real, it’s them.
After Shelby’s Gram passes, she leaves the bookshop to both Shelby and Gray. He’s not welcome in town (due to family history/rumors) and plans to leave, but sticks around to help save the shop. What neither of them planned for was how much the past and feelings still lingers between them.
This had heartbreak, healing, and a love that was impossible to ignore! The way the town treated Gray made me so frustrated, but his quiet patience and steady love for Shelby carried the story. I really felt it!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
I loved the way the story moved between past and present. It didn’t slow things down, it filled in all the emotional gaps and made me believe in the chemistry between Shelby and Gray, then and now. If soulmates are real, it’s them.
After Shelby’s Gram passes, she leaves the bookshop to both Shelby and Gray. He’s not welcome in town (due to family history/rumors) and plans to leave, but sticks around to help save the shop. What neither of them planned for was how much the past and feelings still lingers between them.
This had heartbreak, healing, and a love that was impossible to ignore! The way the town treated Gray made me so frustrated, but his quiet patience and steady love for Shelby carried the story. I really felt it!
I received a complimentary copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
November 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨4.5 stars
This book I really cannot pinpoint absolutely anything that I did not love.
This book is perfectly framed in the autumnal town of Grandville, North Carolina (love the NC rep) where our FMC, Shelby, has recently lost her beloved Gram, who owned the beloved Second Story Bookshop. Gram has given a portion of the store to Shelby, and a slightly smaller portion to Shelby’s ex, Gray. Shelby and Gray have a crazy past (that is thoroughly explored in this book) and that causes tons of animosity from Shelby herself, the town, and the family.
As Shelby and Gray explore this forced proximity relationship as well as fall into their second-chance romance, things get wild in the town of Grandville. All things in regards to the found family, the action, the general romance, and the small aspects of Christianity scattered through the book TRULY warmed every part of my heart. I loved this and highly recommend🧡🥰
This book I really cannot pinpoint absolutely anything that I did not love.
This book is perfectly framed in the autumnal town of Grandville, North Carolina (love the NC rep) where our FMC, Shelby, has recently lost her beloved Gram, who owned the beloved Second Story Bookshop. Gram has given a portion of the store to Shelby, and a slightly smaller portion to Shelby’s ex, Gray. Shelby and Gray have a crazy past (that is thoroughly explored in this book) and that causes tons of animosity from Shelby herself, the town, and the family.
As Shelby and Gray explore this forced proximity relationship as well as fall into their second-chance romance, things get wild in the town of Grandville. All things in regards to the found family, the action, the general romance, and the small aspects of Christianity scattered through the book TRULY warmed every part of my heart. I loved this and highly recommend🧡🥰
October 14, 2025
Oh my! This wonderful story tugged at my heartstrings! I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to handle the angst that I knew was coming for Shelby and Gray in the flashbacks, however, it was helpful to me to know that the story was written by an author that never fails to draw me in. I loved the slow peeks back into the past that happened in those flashbacks. It helped me understand why and how everything came about.
In the present day, Shelby definitely considered Gray her enemy. She wanted to hold onto her resentment and not allow herself to remember how much he once meant to her. Yet, Gray, once again, proved that he was a truly good and honorable man in everything he did. Many people in the town were awful to him and he had so much that he had to endure.
I appreciated the way the author wrapped things up in the end. It turned the story of Gray’s struggles against so much bias for so many years into a wonderful story of new beginnings. I loved that Gray and Shelby got their “second story” together after all.
I enjoyed the way the narrator performed the audio version. It was very enjoyable to listen to.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
In the present day, Shelby definitely considered Gray her enemy. She wanted to hold onto her resentment and not allow herself to remember how much he once meant to her. Yet, Gray, once again, proved that he was a truly good and honorable man in everything he did. Many people in the town were awful to him and he had so much that he had to endure.
I appreciated the way the author wrapped things up in the end. It turned the story of Gray’s struggles against so much bias for so many years into a wonderful story of new beginnings. I loved that Gray and Shelby got their “second story” together after all.
I enjoyed the way the narrator performed the audio version. It was very enjoyable to listen to.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
December 15, 2025
One of my favorite Denise Hunter books ever!
September 19, 2025
i really really liked it. Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
October 19, 2025
3.5/5
The story was so so good until the 60% 😅😅😅😅 that’s where it went flat… good concept but honestly the lack of faith where there were situations where it could be strong was disappointing . Enjoyable Fall cozy read but didn’t like that she was in a relationship when she was also with gray.
The story was so so good until the 60% 😅😅😅😅 that’s where it went flat… good concept but honestly the lack of faith where there were situations where it could be strong was disappointing . Enjoyable Fall cozy read but didn’t like that she was in a relationship when she was also with gray.
October 4, 2025
Some of the character comments came off as awkward and didn't seem fitting, for example "Holy Cannoli' and "Putz" Also, corny comments about the main love interest "How did one acquire ABS like that?" Yep, some of the dialog is just cheesy. The beginning of the story feels a bit predictable for setting up what is going to be the eventual outcome. I like the cozy small town bookshop vibe and the touching moments where Shelby's Gram would whisper to her like Jiminy Cricket was pretty sweet and came across as endearing. I felt so bad for Gray and all the ridiculous (to the point of unbelievable later in the story) treatment he experiences while being back in Granville. I love the idea of second chances and even though at moments it seemed a bit far fetched it was still an enjoyable and entertaining story.
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this second chance romance story. Shelby is surprised to share the inheritance of her Grandma's bookshop with her high school ex who broke her heart when he left town years ago. This story is all about Shelby and Gray reuniting and rebuilding trust as they work together to save the bookshop from a load of debt. We learn of Gray's backstory and the horrible ways the town treated him when he was young. I was drawn right into their story and the family drama surrounding it. I enjoyed some of the side characters, the loyal bestfriend/sister in law and the flirty older author especially. It wasn't very fast paced, but was compelling all the way through. I was routing for Gray the whole time. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the advance listeners copy (ALC) in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the advance listeners copy (ALC) in exchange for my honest review.
September 1, 2025
1.25/5⭐️ 🎧
This ARC is completely mislabeled on NetGalley. The listings of “General Fiction (Adult), Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction” were missing the “Christian” tag and it felt misleading to be honest.
I have no inherent qualm with “clean” romance or Christian romance, but a clear categorization needed to be included.
The plot felt weird. This had a lot of promise with the forced-proximity and the ex-first love via the Grandmother leaving the bookshop to her and the ex. This could have been really funny/cute but it felt choppy and cheesy. The small town grudge against a teenage boy and weird religious undertones without directly being religious really gave me the ick.
Thank you to HCCP & HCF Audio/Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my unbiased, honest review.
Expected Publication Date Oct 07 2025
This ARC is completely mislabeled on NetGalley. The listings of “General Fiction (Adult), Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction” were missing the “Christian” tag and it felt misleading to be honest.
I have no inherent qualm with “clean” romance or Christian romance, but a clear categorization needed to be included.
The plot felt weird. This had a lot of promise with the forced-proximity and the ex-first love via the Grandmother leaving the bookshop to her and the ex. This could have been really funny/cute but it felt choppy and cheesy. The small town grudge against a teenage boy and weird religious undertones without directly being religious really gave me the ick.
Thank you to HCCP & HCF Audio/Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my unbiased, honest review.
Expected Publication Date Oct 07 2025
August 15, 2025
Another winner from Denise Hunter! I loved listening to this book. First, let's talk about the narration; the narrator is absolutely amazing and did a great job of bringing this book to life. Secondly, let's talk about the story. This book is about a second-chance romance between high school first loves. The hero has had many challenges in his life and is a master at overcoming them and making his life better. Through struggles not of his own making, he has become a better man, which I loved about him. The heroine has had hardships and struggles as well; she has gumption and a protective spirit for those she cares about. Lastly, it is a book with a bookstore as the main setting. With suspense (which I am totally for) and sweet romance, this all culminates into a wonderful story that I totally recommend.
*I received a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
*I received a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
October 7, 2025
Thank you NetGalley, Denise Hunter, and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC copy of this book. I received a free copy in exchange for my honest review.
I’d like to preface this review by saying that NetGalley did not warn me that this was Christian romance. I would not have applied for the ARC had I known that, so I feel mislead here.
I’m all for a low to no spice cozy romance book, but this was just over the top. This is written for your grandma to read on her front porch while the grandkids play in the front yard.
The writing style did not grab me, but I powered through. This book probably could have been about 100 pages shorter. The bullying was so over the top and unbelievable that I almost DNF’d more than once. Religious undertones aside, this was just a boring book with flat characters.
The grandma meddling from beyond the grave like “haha knew you loved him still but also here’s a failing book store that’s months behind and rent oh and also here’s a house for my grandson that I made everyone believe was paid off but actually I took a $40k home equity loan on it to fix up the bookstore…and the bookstore is still failing teehee but I’m still gonna force you to be with the boy who broke your heart cause I think you guys belong together by giving him 49% of the store as inheritance”
Ugh! Just not for me.
I’d like to preface this review by saying that NetGalley did not warn me that this was Christian romance. I would not have applied for the ARC had I known that, so I feel mislead here.
I’m all for a low to no spice cozy romance book, but this was just over the top. This is written for your grandma to read on her front porch while the grandkids play in the front yard.
The writing style did not grab me, but I powered through. This book probably could have been about 100 pages shorter. The bullying was so over the top and unbelievable that I almost DNF’d more than once. Religious undertones aside, this was just a boring book with flat characters.
The grandma meddling from beyond the grave like “haha knew you loved him still but also here’s a failing book store that’s months behind and rent oh and also here’s a house for my grandson that I made everyone believe was paid off but actually I took a $40k home equity loan on it to fix up the bookstore…and the bookstore is still failing teehee but I’m still gonna force you to be with the boy who broke your heart cause I think you guys belong together by giving him 49% of the store as inheritance”
Ugh! Just not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2025
Ok, hear me out! Not a religious person nor am I really a soft romance girly BUT THIS, THIS BOOK! I love a good romance with tension, an underdog, and a its been you this whole time scenario. Throw in a small town, a bookstore and you have me hooked which is what I was. I listened to and read this book. It was great, easily a 5 star in my opinion. Sometimes you just need a low to no spice physical romance book. So if you have a thoughts and feeling face, don’t want people looking the other way while you are in public then this is it. Or maybe you are like me, you have kids and your reading is listening to audiobooks in the car then this is it. Thank you Denise Hunter for a great read/listen!
August 4, 2025
Firstly thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me early access.
I adore Denise Hunter’s work. This book is no exception! This was so heartwarming, cozy and sweet!
If you love cozy books, 2nd chance romance and a little suspense mixed in, you’ll love this one!
I adore Denise Hunter’s work. This book is no exception! This was so heartwarming, cozy and sweet!
If you love cozy books, 2nd chance romance and a little suspense mixed in, you’ll love this one!
August 8, 2025
Audiobook review.
The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter, narrated by Kim Churchill.
This book had a great premise and an eye catching cover.
The story was well written and easy to follow.
Kim Churchill's narration was a highlight, skillfully bringing the characters to life and making the story enjoyable to listen to. Although the main character didn't quite resonate with me, Churchill's narration helped to keep the story engaging.
Overall, a pleasant audiobook experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to listen and review this Advanced Release Copy.
The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter, narrated by Kim Churchill.
This book had a great premise and an eye catching cover.
The story was well written and easy to follow.
Kim Churchill's narration was a highlight, skillfully bringing the characters to life and making the story enjoyable to listen to. Although the main character didn't quite resonate with me, Churchill's narration helped to keep the story engaging.
Overall, a pleasant audiobook experience.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to listen and review this Advanced Release Copy.
August 7, 2025
What a lovely cozy book. I'm not usually into small-town drama but this one was heartwarming. Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for the audiobook .
July 28, 2025
Denise Hunter’s The Second Story Bookshop is a charming and heartwarming tale set in a small town, centered around second chances—both in love and in life. If you’re a fan of sweet romances with emotional depth, this one hits all the right notes. Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to listen to this book early.
September 16, 2025
This is the first book that I have listened too by this author and it will definitely not be my last .The story was written so beautifully and brought together so well.I adored Shelby and how kind she was to Daryl and how she stood up for Gray when it seemed everyone was against him.I cried and laughed throughout this book and can see how good it must be to live in a small town.
The narrator Kim Churchill was extremely talented as she voiced the different characters so well and her different tones made it very believable .she brought me right into the heart of the story as if I was living it myself instead of just listening to it .
I would recommend this book to any reader that likes heartfelt romance and anyone who wants to forget what’s happening in real life.
Thank you so much Thomas Nelson for allowing me to listen to this book and for bringing this author,Denise Hunter into my world of books and thank you to #NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to listen and review it.
The narrator Kim Churchill was extremely talented as she voiced the different characters so well and her different tones made it very believable .she brought me right into the heart of the story as if I was living it myself instead of just listening to it .
I would recommend this book to any reader that likes heartfelt romance and anyone who wants to forget what’s happening in real life.
Thank you so much Thomas Nelson for allowing me to listen to this book and for bringing this author,Denise Hunter into my world of books and thank you to #NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to listen and review it.
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