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Chapter One Again: A Novel
Not yet published
Expected 9 Jun 26Escape to Avila Falls in this Cozy Second-Chance Romance Jane is a successful ghostwriter living her dream in New York City, collaborating with movie stars and musicians while quietly longing to publish her own novel. But just as her career comes to a crossroads, she's called back to her hometown of Avila Falls, a charming mountain town with a colorful cast of characters, where a chance encounter with her high school crush stirs unexpected questions about her NYC life. These doubts deepen as Jane tries to find her place back in Avila Falls; begins a new project with Liv, a pop star grappling with her own identity; and reconnects with a friend and mentor who runs the local bookstore, And Then There Were Books. Jane begins to see her hometown differently and sparks begin to fly. She questions whether the version of herself she's created is truly who she wants to be. Could the answers she's searching for lie in the very place she once ran from? Chapter One Again is the debut novel from actress Keelia Clarkson. This cozy, clean second chance romance is the perfect read for anyone searching for love, purpose, and a place to call home. Chapter One Again is perfect for readers who Cozy fiction and clean romance Charming small-town settings Faith-friendly themes Chapter One Again is the first book in the Avila Falls series. Watch for the sequel, Page Two with You.
- GenresRomanceChristian Fiction
208 pages, Paperback
Expected publication June 9, 2026
About the author
Keelia Clarkson
3 books3 followersKeelia Clarkson is a film and television actress and novelist. As an actress, she has appeared in many popular TV shows and starred in multiple award-winning indie films. Including her work on screen, she has also written and directed two feature films, Leading Lady (2022), and the upcoming rom-com, The Lonely Diners Club (2026).
As a lover of words, Keelia has worked as a writer, having written hundreds of articles for a multitude of major outlets, such as Verily Magazine and Radiant. In 2022, Keelia founded her own online magazine, Wallflower Journal, which has reached hundreds of thousands of readers across the globe, and a podcast in conjunction, Dear Wallflower.
Keelia's debut novel, Chapter One Again, the first installment of the Avila Falls series, comes out in June of 2026.
Originally from Los Angeles, Keelia now lives between New York City and Colorado Springs with her actor/author husband, Nathan. She spends her days reveling in cups of coffee, exploring both mountains and city streets, watching reruns of old TV shows, and reading Agatha Christie novels.
As a lover of words, Keelia has worked as a writer, having written hundreds of articles for a multitude of major outlets, such as Verily Magazine and Radiant. In 2022, Keelia founded her own online magazine, Wallflower Journal, which has reached hundreds of thousands of readers across the globe, and a podcast in conjunction, Dear Wallflower.
Keelia's debut novel, Chapter One Again, the first installment of the Avila Falls series, comes out in June of 2026.
Originally from Los Angeles, Keelia now lives between New York City and Colorado Springs with her actor/author husband, Nathan. She spends her days reveling in cups of coffee, exploring both mountains and city streets, watching reruns of old TV shows, and reading Agatha Christie novels.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Chapter One Again is a gentle, reflective story about second chances, identity, purpose, and the complicated feeling of realizing that the life you created for yourself may no longer fit.
The story follows Jane, a successful ghostwriter in New York City who has spent years shaping other people’s stories while quietly setting aside her own dream of becoming an author under her own name. When a trip back to Avila Falls, her small mountain hometown, becomes more permanent than expected, Jane finds herself caught between two very different versions of herself: the ambitious, fast-paced woman she became in the city and the quieter, more grounded person she may have left behind.
Back home, Jane reconnects with a former crush, takes on a new writing project with a pop star facing her own identity questions, and spends time in a beloved local bookstore that becomes a place of comfort and reflection. As old relationships resurface and new possibilities open up, Jane begins to question what success really means and whether the path she has been chasing is still the one she wants.
This book shines in its quiet emotional moments. It is not a story built around dramatic twists or fast-moving conflict. Instead, it focuses on internal change, self-discovery, and the small decisions that slowly reshape a life. Although not for me, Jane could be easy for readers who have ever felt torn between ambition and fulfillment to relate to. Her struggle with purpose, identity, and the pressure to have everything figured out feels sincere and grounded.
The small-town setting is also one of the book’s strengths. Avila Falls feels warm and lived-in, with its bookstore, familiar faces, and strong sense of community creating a cozy atmosphere that makes you want to linger. And, the romance is soft and slow-building, with more emphasis on emotional connection than sweeping drama. It feels natural and understated, which fits the overall tone of the story well.
Where it may not work for every reader, and it didn't work for me, was the strong overtones of faith and religion. For me, the faith-based elements were a little more prominent than I expected. While they are clearly meaningful to the story and will likely resonate with many readers, there were moments where the religious themes pulled me out of the narrative. At times, it felt more direct than I personally prefer, and I found myself wishing the story had trusted the emotional journey a bit more without leaning quite as heavily into the spiritual messaging.
That said, this is very much a reader-preference issue rather than a flaw across the board. Readers who enjoy inspirational fiction or stories where faith is closely tied to personal growth may connect with this aspect much more than I did.
The pacing is also slower and more introspective, especially through the middle. And I found myself putting the book down to read other books before coming back to it (I considered it a DNF a few times). The book prioritizes reflection over action, so readers looking for a more plot-driven story may find it a bit drawn out. I also would have liked a little more development from some of the side characters, and the ending felt somewhat abrupt, almost as though the story closed just as I was ready to see more of Jane’s long-term choices.
Overall, Chapter One Again is a soft, comforting story about returning to yourself, reconsidering what success means, and finding the courage to begin again. It has a cozy setting, a thoughtful main character, and a quiet sense of hope running through it.
While the faith elements were stronger than I personally prefer, I can see this being a meaningful and uplifting read for the right audience. It may be especially well-suited for readers who enjoy reflective, faith-forward stories about second chances, small towns, and rediscovering the life you were meant to live. I started with 3.5 stars (⭐⭐⭐⭐) but rounded up to 4 stars as it was well-written.
This book was provided as an ARC by InterVarsity Press's Publicity Team and NetGalley in return for my honest opinion. Watch for it to hit retailers at the beginning of June 2026.
The story follows Jane, a successful ghostwriter in New York City who has spent years shaping other people’s stories while quietly setting aside her own dream of becoming an author under her own name. When a trip back to Avila Falls, her small mountain hometown, becomes more permanent than expected, Jane finds herself caught between two very different versions of herself: the ambitious, fast-paced woman she became in the city and the quieter, more grounded person she may have left behind.
Back home, Jane reconnects with a former crush, takes on a new writing project with a pop star facing her own identity questions, and spends time in a beloved local bookstore that becomes a place of comfort and reflection. As old relationships resurface and new possibilities open up, Jane begins to question what success really means and whether the path she has been chasing is still the one she wants.
This book shines in its quiet emotional moments. It is not a story built around dramatic twists or fast-moving conflict. Instead, it focuses on internal change, self-discovery, and the small decisions that slowly reshape a life. Although not for me, Jane could be easy for readers who have ever felt torn between ambition and fulfillment to relate to. Her struggle with purpose, identity, and the pressure to have everything figured out feels sincere and grounded.
The small-town setting is also one of the book’s strengths. Avila Falls feels warm and lived-in, with its bookstore, familiar faces, and strong sense of community creating a cozy atmosphere that makes you want to linger. And, the romance is soft and slow-building, with more emphasis on emotional connection than sweeping drama. It feels natural and understated, which fits the overall tone of the story well.
Where it may not work for every reader, and it didn't work for me, was the strong overtones of faith and religion. For me, the faith-based elements were a little more prominent than I expected. While they are clearly meaningful to the story and will likely resonate with many readers, there were moments where the religious themes pulled me out of the narrative. At times, it felt more direct than I personally prefer, and I found myself wishing the story had trusted the emotional journey a bit more without leaning quite as heavily into the spiritual messaging.
That said, this is very much a reader-preference issue rather than a flaw across the board. Readers who enjoy inspirational fiction or stories where faith is closely tied to personal growth may connect with this aspect much more than I did.
The pacing is also slower and more introspective, especially through the middle. And I found myself putting the book down to read other books before coming back to it (I considered it a DNF a few times). The book prioritizes reflection over action, so readers looking for a more plot-driven story may find it a bit drawn out. I also would have liked a little more development from some of the side characters, and the ending felt somewhat abrupt, almost as though the story closed just as I was ready to see more of Jane’s long-term choices.
Overall, Chapter One Again is a soft, comforting story about returning to yourself, reconsidering what success means, and finding the courage to begin again. It has a cozy setting, a thoughtful main character, and a quiet sense of hope running through it.
While the faith elements were stronger than I personally prefer, I can see this being a meaningful and uplifting read for the right audience. It may be especially well-suited for readers who enjoy reflective, faith-forward stories about second chances, small towns, and rediscovering the life you were meant to live. I started with 3.5 stars (⭐⭐⭐⭐) but rounded up to 4 stars as it was well-written.
This book was provided as an ARC by InterVarsity Press's Publicity Team and NetGalley in return for my honest opinion. Watch for it to hit retailers at the beginning of June 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
There are some books you read for literary fireworks and some you read for the simple pleasure of settling into a comfortable story world. Chapter One Again, Keelia Clarkson’s debut novel, clearly belongs to the second category.
The story introduces us to Jane, a successful ghostwriter living in New York City who returns to her hometown of Avila Falls just as her career seems poised for a turning point. Back in the mountain town she once left behind, she reconnects with familiar faces, encounters her high school crush again, and begins to wonder whether the life she has built in the city is the life she truly wants.
Avila Falls itself is very much part of the charm. Clarkson leans into the warm appeal of a small-town setting: a beloved independent bookstore, colorful local characters, and the sense that the place you once fled might still hold a future you didn’t expect. Readers who enjoy stories where home becomes a character in its own right will find much to like here.
Jane’s work as a ghostwriter adds an interesting dimension to the story. She helps shape the voices of other public figures while quietly wrestling with her own creative longings—a tension many writers will immediately recognize. Along the way, she forms a friendship with Liv, a pop star navigating questions of identity and public image, which introduces another thread about authenticity and the courage to live truthfully.
The novel also carries gentle faith-adjacent themes about purpose, calling, and paying attention to the quiet nudges that shape our lives. Clarkson approaches these ideas in a straightforward, accessible way that will likely resonate with readers who appreciate stories in which faith and vocation intersect with everyday decisions.
In tone and structure, Chapter One Again reads very much like the kind of cozy, uplifting story that Hallmark audiences gravitate toward: a return home, a rediscovered sense of belonging, and the possibility of love arriving where it was least expected. The emphasis is less on dramatic twists and more on the comfort of familiar narrative rhythms.
As the first installment in the Avila Falls series, the book clearly lays the groundwork for future stories in this community. Several relationships and storylines are introduced that readers will likely enjoy seeing explored further in the next volume.
Fans of clean romance, small-town fiction, and gentle stories about second chances will find Chapter One Again an easy, comforting read—and Avila Falls seems poised to welcome readers back again soon when the next installment arrives.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Inter-Varsity Press for a review copy.
The story introduces us to Jane, a successful ghostwriter living in New York City who returns to her hometown of Avila Falls just as her career seems poised for a turning point. Back in the mountain town she once left behind, she reconnects with familiar faces, encounters her high school crush again, and begins to wonder whether the life she has built in the city is the life she truly wants.
Avila Falls itself is very much part of the charm. Clarkson leans into the warm appeal of a small-town setting: a beloved independent bookstore, colorful local characters, and the sense that the place you once fled might still hold a future you didn’t expect. Readers who enjoy stories where home becomes a character in its own right will find much to like here.
Jane’s work as a ghostwriter adds an interesting dimension to the story. She helps shape the voices of other public figures while quietly wrestling with her own creative longings—a tension many writers will immediately recognize. Along the way, she forms a friendship with Liv, a pop star navigating questions of identity and public image, which introduces another thread about authenticity and the courage to live truthfully.
The novel also carries gentle faith-adjacent themes about purpose, calling, and paying attention to the quiet nudges that shape our lives. Clarkson approaches these ideas in a straightforward, accessible way that will likely resonate with readers who appreciate stories in which faith and vocation intersect with everyday decisions.
In tone and structure, Chapter One Again reads very much like the kind of cozy, uplifting story that Hallmark audiences gravitate toward: a return home, a rediscovered sense of belonging, and the possibility of love arriving where it was least expected. The emphasis is less on dramatic twists and more on the comfort of familiar narrative rhythms.
As the first installment in the Avila Falls series, the book clearly lays the groundwork for future stories in this community. Several relationships and storylines are introduced that readers will likely enjoy seeing explored further in the next volume.
Fans of clean romance, small-town fiction, and gentle stories about second chances will find Chapter One Again an easy, comforting read—and Avila Falls seems poised to welcome readers back again soon when the next installment arrives.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Inter-Varsity Press for a review copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson - ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Some books you pick up for drama and plot twists. And then there are books like this one, the kind you settle into like a warm blanket on a rainy day. ☁️📚✨
Chapter One Again follows Jane, a successful ghostwriter living in New York City who has spent years telling other people's stories while quietly putting her own dreams on hold. When she ends up back in her small mountain hometown of Avila Falls longer than expected, she finds herself caught between the ambitious city version of herself and the quieter, more grounded person she left behind. 🏔️
The small town setting is honestly one of the best parts of the whole book. Avila Falls feels so warm and lived in, the local bookstore, the familiar faces, the strong sense of community. It's the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer. 🏡📖 Jane also ends up working with Liv, a pop star navigating her own identity questions, which adds a really interesting thread about authenticity and the courage to live truthfully.
The romance is soft and slow building with more focus on emotional connection than grand gestures, which fits the overall tone of the story perfectly. 💕
I will be honest, the faith elements are quite present throughout and depending on your reading preferences that will either feel meaningful and uplifting or occasionally pull you out of the story. For me personally it was somewhere in between. The pacing is also on the slower and more reflective side, so if you prefer plot driven stories this one might test your patience a little. 😅
But the writing is genuinely lovely and Jane's journey of rediscovering what success really means felt sincere and grounded. A quiet, comforting debut with a lot of heart. 🌿💛
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 💛
Some books you pick up for drama and plot twists. And then there are books like this one, the kind you settle into like a warm blanket on a rainy day. ☁️📚✨
Chapter One Again follows Jane, a successful ghostwriter living in New York City who has spent years telling other people's stories while quietly putting her own dreams on hold. When she ends up back in her small mountain hometown of Avila Falls longer than expected, she finds herself caught between the ambitious city version of herself and the quieter, more grounded person she left behind. 🏔️
The small town setting is honestly one of the best parts of the whole book. Avila Falls feels so warm and lived in, the local bookstore, the familiar faces, the strong sense of community. It's the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer. 🏡📖 Jane also ends up working with Liv, a pop star navigating her own identity questions, which adds a really interesting thread about authenticity and the courage to live truthfully.
The romance is soft and slow building with more focus on emotional connection than grand gestures, which fits the overall tone of the story perfectly. 💕
I will be honest, the faith elements are quite present throughout and depending on your reading preferences that will either feel meaningful and uplifting or occasionally pull you out of the story. For me personally it was somewhere in between. The pacing is also on the slower and more reflective side, so if you prefer plot driven stories this one might test your patience a little. 😅
But the writing is genuinely lovely and Jane's journey of rediscovering what success really means felt sincere and grounded. A quiet, comforting debut with a lot of heart. 🌿💛
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 💛
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 Stars
This was my first book by Keelia Clarkson, and from the very first page I was struck by her imagery. She writes in a way that makes it easy to fully visualize the setting and emotionally step into the character’s world.
The story moves at a slower pace, but it’s filled with meaningful and satisfying moments. Because of that pacing, we really get to know Jane and Noah on a deeper level. It did take me some time to warm up to Noah as the MMC, but in a way that felt intentional and realistic rather than frustrating.
Faith plays a significant role in this novel, yet it never feels forced or preachy. It flows naturally through the storyline and conversations, which I really appreciated.
As the story progressed, I was surprised by how much I connected with Jane. I think many readers will see a piece of themselves in her. Especially those navigating career ambitions, self-doubt, and personal growth.
The romance between Noah and Jane is quiet, tender, and slow-building. It’s not flashy or dramatic, but soft and steady.
The ending did feel a bit abrupt and left me wanting more, especially when it comes to Jane’s career path and the futures of Edith, Liv, Noah, and the rest of the cast.
Overall, this is a heartfelt, faith-based novel with a career-driven FMC and a gentle romance woven throughout. If you enjoy Christian fiction with emotional depth and personal growth, this would be a lovely read for you.
This was my first book by Keelia Clarkson, and from the very first page I was struck by her imagery. She writes in a way that makes it easy to fully visualize the setting and emotionally step into the character’s world.
The story moves at a slower pace, but it’s filled with meaningful and satisfying moments. Because of that pacing, we really get to know Jane and Noah on a deeper level. It did take me some time to warm up to Noah as the MMC, but in a way that felt intentional and realistic rather than frustrating.
Faith plays a significant role in this novel, yet it never feels forced or preachy. It flows naturally through the storyline and conversations, which I really appreciated.
As the story progressed, I was surprised by how much I connected with Jane. I think many readers will see a piece of themselves in her. Especially those navigating career ambitions, self-doubt, and personal growth.
The romance between Noah and Jane is quiet, tender, and slow-building. It’s not flashy or dramatic, but soft and steady.
The ending did feel a bit abrupt and left me wanting more, especially when it comes to Jane’s career path and the futures of Edith, Liv, Noah, and the rest of the cast.
Overall, this is a heartfelt, faith-based novel with a career-driven FMC and a gentle romance woven throughout. If you enjoy Christian fiction with emotional depth and personal growth, this would be a lovely read for you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC of Chapter One Again by Keeliq Clarkson on Netgalley, and what stood out to me most was how reflective this story feels.
This isn’t a loud or overly dramatic romance. It’s thoughtful. It lingers. It takes its time exploring purpose, faith, and the quiet in–between seasons of life. The kind of story that focuses more on internal shifts than external chaos.
Jane’s journey feels very grounded especially for anyone trying to balance ambition, uncertainty, and personal growth. There’s something deeply relatable about watching her navigate expectations while still trying to hear her own voice clearly.
The romance unfolds gently. It’s tender without being over-the-top, and it leans into emotional connection rather than grand displays. If you enjoy love stories that build through conversation, patience, and shared faith, this dynamic will likely resonate with you.
Faith is present throughout the novel in a way that feels woven into the characters’ everyday lives. It doesn’t overpower the story; instead, it shapes decisions, perspectives, and growth in subtle but meaningful ways.
Overall, this is a soft, introspective Christian romance that centers identity, calling, and steady love. If you gravitate toward character-driven stories with emotional depth and a faith foundation, this might be one for you.
This isn’t a loud or overly dramatic romance. It’s thoughtful. It lingers. It takes its time exploring purpose, faith, and the quiet in–between seasons of life. The kind of story that focuses more on internal shifts than external chaos.
Jane’s journey feels very grounded especially for anyone trying to balance ambition, uncertainty, and personal growth. There’s something deeply relatable about watching her navigate expectations while still trying to hear her own voice clearly.
The romance unfolds gently. It’s tender without being over-the-top, and it leans into emotional connection rather than grand displays. If you enjoy love stories that build through conversation, patience, and shared faith, this dynamic will likely resonate with you.
Faith is present throughout the novel in a way that feels woven into the characters’ everyday lives. It doesn’t overpower the story; instead, it shapes decisions, perspectives, and growth in subtle but meaningful ways.
Overall, this is a soft, introspective Christian romance that centers identity, calling, and steady love. If you gravitate toward character-driven stories with emotional depth and a faith foundation, this might be one for you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson is the kind of story that gently wraps around your heart and reminds you that it’s never too late for a new beginning.
From the very first page, I felt drawn into Jane’s world—a life that looks successful on the outside but quietly wrestles with longing, purpose, and identity. Her journey back to Avila Falls isn’t just a physical return home, it’s a deeply emotional and spiritual one. Watching her reconnect with old relationships, rediscover parts of herself she had buried, and question the life she built in New York felt incredibly real and relatable.
What I loved most about this book is its quiet depth. It’s not overly dramatic, but it carries a steady, meaningful message about listening to where God is leading you—even when it means stepping away from the life you thought you wanted. There’s a beautiful sense of peace woven through the story, like a reminder that sometimes God calls us back before He calls us forward.
The small-town setting of Avila Falls adds such a cozy charm, especially with places like the bookstore and the warm, familiar relationships that feel like home. And the romance? It’s tender, genuine, and full of second chances—not just in love, but in life.
This story left me feeling comforted. It speaks to anyone who has ever wondered if they’re truly living the life they were meant for.
Thank you Netgally for my ARC copy. My Review is my own.
4/5⭐️
From the very first page, I felt drawn into Jane’s world—a life that looks successful on the outside but quietly wrestles with longing, purpose, and identity. Her journey back to Avila Falls isn’t just a physical return home, it’s a deeply emotional and spiritual one. Watching her reconnect with old relationships, rediscover parts of herself she had buried, and question the life she built in New York felt incredibly real and relatable.
What I loved most about this book is its quiet depth. It’s not overly dramatic, but it carries a steady, meaningful message about listening to where God is leading you—even when it means stepping away from the life you thought you wanted. There’s a beautiful sense of peace woven through the story, like a reminder that sometimes God calls us back before He calls us forward.
The small-town setting of Avila Falls adds such a cozy charm, especially with places like the bookstore and the warm, familiar relationships that feel like home. And the romance? It’s tender, genuine, and full of second chances—not just in love, but in life.
This story left me feeling comforted. It speaks to anyone who has ever wondered if they’re truly living the life they were meant for.
Thank you Netgally for my ARC copy. My Review is my own.
4/5⭐️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I feel this novel has potential but it’s not quite “there” yet. First, I appreciated Clarkson’s skill as a writer. Some of her descriptions were truly precious and did an excellent job of setting the scene. I also enjoyed the way the characters took their time getting to know one another. I wouldn’t call it a slow burn though. I couldn’t really feel the sparks between them. Clearly, the FMC has been carrying a torch but I didn’t like that the author allowed the MMC to skip out on all the hard work of tension building or even true declarations of like/love. I wanted more from him at critical moments. And, without spoiling anything, the way he approached their defining moment actually frustrated me with how little he said or offered. That’s just not romantic in my book.
I almost feel that this was more of an adult coming of age/ coming of self story than a second chance romance. I did like the FMC’s growth as it related to her family and goals. Where it felt less complete was in her faith. It seemed that the story had been building toward a true faith or conversion but fizzled at the end. With a stronger faith-filled last 25% (even 15%, to be honest), I could have easily accepted where things landed in terms of the story.
I submit this review with gratitude to NetGalley and InterVarsity Press for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I almost feel that this was more of an adult coming of age/ coming of self story than a second chance romance. I did like the FMC’s growth as it related to her family and goals. Where it felt less complete was in her faith. It seemed that the story had been building toward a true faith or conversion but fizzled at the end. With a stronger faith-filled last 25% (even 15%, to be honest), I could have easily accepted where things landed in terms of the story.
I submit this review with gratitude to NetGalley and InterVarsity Press for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Loved this clean, Christian themed Rom-com style book!
My favorite theme addressed is the idea of happiness and what makes us feel happy and fulfilled. We all have some kind of list or ideas of, “If I accomplish _____, I will feel happy” or “If I do _______, I will be a success”.
In this book we read about several people who by all accounts should (because they have accomplished their goals) be happy, but are not. They actually feel inadequate, self conscious, and alone.
There are forces beyond our own goals, comforts not of this world that help us during these challenging times. God truly gives us a bigger perspective on what is important in life and how to follow His guidance.
As a book lover, it was also beautiful to have an MFC who is an author. While she is a writer, she also yearns to write her own stories instead of other people’s life experiences.
I would have loved to have the friendship between Jane and Liv grow in this book, but perhaps that is to come in the next book.
Spice: None
Language: None
*Second chance romance
*Forced proximity
*Christian
*Quick read
My favorite theme addressed is the idea of happiness and what makes us feel happy and fulfilled. We all have some kind of list or ideas of, “If I accomplish _____, I will feel happy” or “If I do _______, I will be a success”.
In this book we read about several people who by all accounts should (because they have accomplished their goals) be happy, but are not. They actually feel inadequate, self conscious, and alone.
There are forces beyond our own goals, comforts not of this world that help us during these challenging times. God truly gives us a bigger perspective on what is important in life and how to follow His guidance.
As a book lover, it was also beautiful to have an MFC who is an author. While she is a writer, she also yearns to write her own stories instead of other people’s life experiences.
I would have loved to have the friendship between Jane and Liv grow in this book, but perhaps that is to come in the next book.
Spice: None
Language: None
*Second chance romance
*Forced proximity
*Christian
*Quick read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Chapter One Again is a debut novel from Keelia Clarkson and I really enjoyed it. In this book, we get to explore the world of ghostwriters in the publishing world. Our lead character is a very successful ghostwriter of many popular memoirs. She's wanting to break free under her own name to put the finishing touch on proof of her success. But...first she needs to do a novel for a popular pop star.
But then...she decides to return home for her mom's birthday. The place that she happily left behind when she found her way to NY. She will just put in a visit, then be back in the city she loves.
Of course, we know this doesn't quite work out that way. Throw in a handsome former high school crush. A beloved mentor who owns the local bookstore. A bit of chaos...and our lead character is suddenly rethinking life and maybe focusing on what GOD wants her story to be instead.
4 stars. I will happily read the next installment when it comes out.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGAlley for the ARC. All opinions are 100% my own.
But then...she decides to return home for her mom's birthday. The place that she happily left behind when she found her way to NY. She will just put in a visit, then be back in the city she loves.
Of course, we know this doesn't quite work out that way. Throw in a handsome former high school crush. A beloved mentor who owns the local bookstore. A bit of chaos...and our lead character is suddenly rethinking life and maybe focusing on what GOD wants her story to be instead.
4 stars. I will happily read the next installment when it comes out.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGAlley for the ARC. All opinions are 100% my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a sweet debut read from Keelia Clarkson. I've followed the various Clarkson family members over the years, and was very excited for this read!
I could relate to the MC a lot, being a writer/editor myself (who wanted to live in NYC for a long time). There was a lot of overlap in our stories, too, as we both faced changes, hard decisions, and uncertainty. I'm not sure how my story will end, but I appreciated this book's arrival at the perfect time in my own life, and the wisdom it shared. It made me stop and think how I would have handled what the MC faced, and the few times I was a bit tetchy proved a good opportunity to ask why.
A sweet story I'd enjoy revisiting down the line. The NetGalley eARC was a bit wonky, with the first line or two of each chapter missing, so I'm eager to revisit and actually read those portions!
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I could relate to the MC a lot, being a writer/editor myself (who wanted to live in NYC for a long time). There was a lot of overlap in our stories, too, as we both faced changes, hard decisions, and uncertainty. I'm not sure how my story will end, but I appreciated this book's arrival at the perfect time in my own life, and the wisdom it shared. It made me stop and think how I would have handled what the MC faced, and the few times I was a bit tetchy proved a good opportunity to ask why.
A sweet story I'd enjoy revisiting down the line. The NetGalley eARC was a bit wonky, with the first line or two of each chapter missing, so I'm eager to revisit and actually read those portions!
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. As many other readers have said about this book, it is gentle. For readers who are beyond college age, and for me as a 41 year old reader, it felt cozy, nostalgic and super relatable. I think most of us have gone through the season of life where we are disappointed in where we are at and trying to figure out what is next or what to do about it. There is the season of questioning our faith and wondering where God is in the middle of it all. There is the feeling of running into your high school crush and trying to control your emotions. Jane, our main character, has to navigate a lot in the short time span of this book. And I think Keelia Clarkson did a great job with it.
It looks like this might be a series and I would definitely be interested in reading the others that come a long.
Thank you NetGalley and InterVarsity Press for an eARC of this story. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It looks like this might be a series and I would definitely be interested in reading the others that come a long.
Thank you NetGalley and InterVarsity Press for an eARC of this story. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a sweet, easy read for me. The writing flows really well and makes it one of those books you can just pick up and keep going without overthinking it.
Jane was really relatable—especially if you’re in that phase of life where you’re balancing family, responsibilities, and trying to figure out what’s next. I liked the characters overall and felt like they were grounded and real, but I did wish a few of them had a little more depth.
I also really liked the message about slowing down and rethinking what success actually looks like. It’s a clean, feel-good story with a bit of faith woven in, and overall just a comforting read.
Thank you NetGalley and InterVarsity Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Jane was really relatable—especially if you’re in that phase of life where you’re balancing family, responsibilities, and trying to figure out what’s next. I liked the characters overall and felt like they were grounded and real, but I did wish a few of them had a little more depth.
I also really liked the message about slowing down and rethinking what success actually looks like. It’s a clean, feel-good story with a bit of faith woven in, and overall just a comforting read.
Thank you NetGalley and InterVarsity Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson is a sweet, clean, uplifting and heartwarming book. I’ve never read Ms. Clarkson’s work before and I was pleasantly surprised to find it an easy read, as well as a thought-provoking read. Jane’s character was quite relatable, as was Noah’s, especially if you’ve been in their positions with elderly parents. The belief in God and faith is nicely presented throughout the story line and gives the reader nice inspiration and insight. This was well written inspirational and positive read that I would most definitely recommend. I’m grateful to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review: Chapter One Again - Keelia Clarkson (ARC)
"Jane is a successful ghostwriter living her dream in New York City, collaborating with movie stars and musicians while quietly longing to publish her own novel. But just as her career comes to a crossroads, she's called back to her hometown of Avila Falls, a charming mountain town with a colorful cast of characters, where a chance encounter with her high school crush stirs unexpected questions about her NYC life."
Even though it felt predictable at times, I really enjoyed this story. I loved it. The characters are great and Avila Falls sounds lovely. It's very light and fun to read, though the plot can be built up a little more at times. Sometimes the information given immediately told me what was going on, when I would have liked a surprising twist a bit more.
Aside from that, it was a very relatable story for where I'm currenly at in my own life. Sometimes you read something that just feels like it was written for you, and this was one of those books to me. I'm also really curious about the sequel, which is known to come already.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Jane is a successful ghostwriter living her dream in New York City, collaborating with movie stars and musicians while quietly longing to publish her own novel. But just as her career comes to a crossroads, she's called back to her hometown of Avila Falls, a charming mountain town with a colorful cast of characters, where a chance encounter with her high school crush stirs unexpected questions about her NYC life."
Even though it felt predictable at times, I really enjoyed this story. I loved it. The characters are great and Avila Falls sounds lovely. It's very light and fun to read, though the plot can be built up a little more at times. Sometimes the information given immediately told me what was going on, when I would have liked a surprising twist a bit more.
Aside from that, it was a very relatable story for where I'm currenly at in my own life. Sometimes you read something that just feels like it was written for you, and this was one of those books to me. I'm also really curious about the sequel, which is known to come already.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is sweet and heart-warming. The theme is simple but thought provoking – what makes success? The characters are likeable – some are downright adorable - with enough nuance to feel like real people. The writing style makes this book hard to put down. It’s the perfect romantic escape read. I look forward to the next chapter of Avila Falls.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Tastefully written! I really enjoyed this book. The romance was sweet and watching Jane discover her path God had for her was so relatable!! She had such encouraging relationship (new and old) and no one pushed what they wanted on her. They let her figure it out and stood along side her while doing so. Just so well done and so realistic!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Loved reading the inspirational and amazing story. When Jane comes back to town to visit her parents, she is hoping to get her novel published, working as a ghost writer, and when she gets locked in a bookstore for the night, she finds herself stranded with Noah. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and a must read riveting romance story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. This was such a sweet and fun read. I loved how Noah and Jane reconnected and the romance between them. I will definitely want to read more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a fun, cute story. It's a slow burn, second chance romance. I don't normally like slow romances, but this one was done right. It takes place in both New York and Tennessee. I love the contrasts between the places and the people.
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