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Chapter One Again
Escape 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.
208 pages, Paperback
Published June 9, 2026
About the author
Keelia Clarkson
3 books30 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 - 30 of 74 reviews
June 29, 2026
I really loved this book! A search for a significant life - something I think so many of us do. And how do we know which path is the right one? It’s a real struggle and Clarkson handles it so gently. I think many will relate to this. It reads like a Hallmark story - but it isn’t as predictable - you aren’t sure, until near the end, what choice Jane will make.
Pg. 194 “But lately I had begun to wonder if she had been right all along: If the problem hadn’t been that God didn’t care about me or my dreams but that I hadn’t been able to recognize His care without knowing Him.”
Tender and lovely - it really resonated with me.
Pg. 194 “But lately I had begun to wonder if she had been right all along: If the problem hadn’t been that God didn’t care about me or my dreams but that I hadn’t been able to recognize His care without knowing Him.”
Tender and lovely - it really resonated with me.
June 12, 2026
I really enjoyed this! Not just a romance, but a book that delves into the protagonist’s search for a life with meaning and purpose. Can’t wait for sequel!
June 6, 2026
An ARC copy of this book was provided by RBMedia on the NetGalley platform in exchange for an honest review.
This is absolutely for you if you’re looking for that Hallmark channel-esque city girl returns home, reconnects with her family, and runs into her high school crush framework.
It’s squeaky clean, so it’s a perfect palate cleanser that comes with a cozy, small town vibe. I loved the writing and tone - it really made me easily fall into the story and feel the gist of the story.
My only critiques are that the characters read like they’re freshly out of high school - they’re still navigating events that happened a decade later. The writing was so easy to follow, but the characters’ voices felt much, much younger than the premise required.
While the couple themselves seemed to be excited that they liked each other, I didn’t really see too much of an established connection. The ex coming onto the scene 3/4 through to push the jealousy narrative didn’t really go over well considering this is supposed to be a Christian faith romance. Noah felt quite one-dimensional to me - we got to explore and experience Liv’s emotions, but Noah wasn’t really fleshing out his. He was there, I liked reading about them, but I didn’t really get much about him.
I’d also argue that this isn’t a true second-chance romance, as there wasn’t really anything besides a crush historically.
This is absolutely for you if you’re looking for that Hallmark channel-esque city girl returns home, reconnects with her family, and runs into her high school crush framework.
It’s squeaky clean, so it’s a perfect palate cleanser that comes with a cozy, small town vibe. I loved the writing and tone - it really made me easily fall into the story and feel the gist of the story.
My only critiques are that the characters read like they’re freshly out of high school - they’re still navigating events that happened a decade later. The writing was so easy to follow, but the characters’ voices felt much, much younger than the premise required.
While the couple themselves seemed to be excited that they liked each other, I didn’t really see too much of an established connection. The ex coming onto the scene 3/4 through to push the jealousy narrative didn’t really go over well considering this is supposed to be a Christian faith romance. Noah felt quite one-dimensional to me - we got to explore and experience Liv’s emotions, but Noah wasn’t really fleshing out his. He was there, I liked reading about them, but I didn’t really get much about him.
I’d also argue that this isn’t a true second-chance romance, as there wasn’t really anything besides a crush historically.
June 2, 2026
This book is a good, fun, short kind of story that still sticks with you when you're done, which is impressive for a book this length. It still felt like a full story was told, with enough depth to think that you have explored all the emotions and can understand where the characters in the story are coming from.
This story will resonate with a lot of people. At some point in your life (or most likely at multiple points in ones life) you will ask yourself whether you are doing the right thing. Am I really enjoying my job, do I really like the life I'm living. And what do I do if I'm not? To no ones surprise, it's what got me to tears in the weirdest spots in this book. I felt heard, understood, and not alone, which was emotional.
For those who like religion in stories, this book will fit as well. I don't believe in anything, so I don't feel like it's my place to comment on that side of the story. It wasn't needed for me, but I can understand how others will appreciate that part of the story.
And how cool is it that the author was her own narrator in the audiobook? I always like that, no one knows better how lines are supposed to be said than the author herself. She did a really good job as well!
Thank you Netgalley and RBmedia for providing the audiobook!
This story will resonate with a lot of people. At some point in your life (or most likely at multiple points in ones life) you will ask yourself whether you are doing the right thing. Am I really enjoying my job, do I really like the life I'm living. And what do I do if I'm not? To no ones surprise, it's what got me to tears in the weirdest spots in this book. I felt heard, understood, and not alone, which was emotional.
For those who like religion in stories, this book will fit as well. I don't believe in anything, so I don't feel like it's my place to comment on that side of the story. It wasn't needed for me, but I can understand how others will appreciate that part of the story.
And how cool is it that the author was her own narrator in the audiobook? I always like that, no one knows better how lines are supposed to be said than the author herself. She did a really good job as well!
Thank you Netgalley and RBmedia for providing the audiobook!
July 1, 2026
Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson is a wonderful novel about finding your place. So many, including me, dream of moving away and 'making it' only to find our happiness is dependent on finding peace within ourselves. Such strong characters in Jane and Noah. Beautiful scenery in the mountains near Denver. And the gift of discovering that peace. Cannot wait for book 2 in the Avila Falls Series "Page Two With You".
Released June 9th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Released June 9th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 17, 2026
What a perfect little book! This was a sweet escape but also had a spiritual message that will resonate with many.
July 8, 2026
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
Scripture Connection
In their hearts humans plan their course,
but the Lord establishes their steps.
Prov. 16:9
Spiritual Themes
While had Jane had expected to find fulfillment in a glossy New York lifestyle, hobnobbing with celebrities and gaining a professional voice, she’s beginning to realize that satisfaction and self worth aren’t found in circumstances. In spite of achieving many of her dreams, she still feels empty.
New friends Noah and Liv shed their own perspective on Jane’s soul-searching: After their times in the spotlight, they’re ready for the relief of a quieter life.
Chapter One Again conveys a clear and focused spiritual message, centering on relationship with / belief in God and recognizing the meaning in the life experiences in which He places us.
What I Liked
Author Keelia Clarkson is an actress and filmmaker, so it’s worth noting that Chapter One Again began as a screenplay (Acknowledgements). The benefit of this is that the book very much reads with the sweet flow of a Hallmark-style film. In fact, I think there was one point where my thought about finishing the book was more in context of “finishing a movie,” and I had to remind myself that it was actually a book I’d been enjoying.
As someone who very much gravitates toward Hallmark-esque plots, I do enjoy reading about characters living in “the Big City” with fascinating and (honestly) “impressive” careers. These were two elements of the story that definitely added to my personal enjoyment. But, the plot went beyond superficial romances and worldly notions of success, broaching questions of belonging and fulfillment. Whereas characters in stories are often asked to assess whether they are prepared to trade their “perfect” lives for romance, this lead grapples with her lack of fulfillment — and other characters speak into her questions with life experiences of their own.
As I reflect, there’s some thematic commonality between this book and 13 Going on 30 (one of my favorite movies, although there are some weird scenes), as far as the character getting “exactly what she wanted” (or, in this case, very close to it), but continuing to feel unfulfilled. While 13 Going on 30 takes a secular approach to this concept, with an overarching theme of gratitude (and, of course, true love), Chapter One Again explores themes of identity and faith.
I appreciated the main character’s personal reflections in terms of family relationships, as well. Since moving away from home at the age of 18, Jane has rarely looked back. In fact, aside from brief visits with her parents on her own turf, Jane has hardly seen her parents. She hasn’t even been home in five years, at the start of the story! In visiting her mom and dad for her mom’s birthday, Jane realizes that her parents are growing older, and it’s important that she spends time with them. She also has the opportunity to reconnect with Edith, the proprietor of the bookstore that Jane considered a second home during her teen years.
In a culture that values youth to the point of detriment, it was also refreshing to encounter Noah.
Additional Discussion
Our current culture prioritizes children and youth to the point of detriment, encouraging young people that their dreams matter most of all. Part of this message of entitlement is the expectation that parents give sacrificially to their children, while children are not expected to care for their parents.
In Chapter One Again, Jane was encouraged by her parents to “follow her dreams,” and since her dreams took her to New York, she has spent very little time with them over the past five years. In returning to her hometown, she realizes how much they have aged in her absence, and she begins to reflect on their time apart.
Jane learns that
I found Noah’s perspective to be refreshing, as some of Jane’s thoughts came off as a bit immature or… shaped by some of the negative elements in our culture, at points. With that said, she absolutely matures throughout the novel, so her earlier thought processes provide a context for comparison as far as character development. Additionally, because she’s an interesting and relatable character, I think that readers can benefit from her character arc (as the decision to take a step closer to one’s parents can be a bit counter-cultural in this day and age).
I would not have minded an even stronger counter-cultural emphasis in this regard, but I can acknowledge Jane’s growth.
Recommendation Status
A sweet romance with a relatable message, Chapter One Again is well-suited to young women / new adult readers who enjoy big city and small town settings. Recommended to readers who like Hallmark-style plots with a clear Christian message.
Scripture Connection
In their hearts humans plan their course,
but the Lord establishes their steps.
Prov. 16:9
Spiritual Themes
While had Jane had expected to find fulfillment in a glossy New York lifestyle, hobnobbing with celebrities and gaining a professional voice, she’s beginning to realize that satisfaction and self worth aren’t found in circumstances. In spite of achieving many of her dreams, she still feels empty.
New friends Noah and Liv shed their own perspective on Jane’s soul-searching: After their times in the spotlight, they’re ready for the relief of a quieter life.
Chapter One Again conveys a clear and focused spiritual message, centering on relationship with / belief in God and recognizing the meaning in the life experiences in which He places us.
What I Liked
Author Keelia Clarkson is an actress and filmmaker, so it’s worth noting that Chapter One Again began as a screenplay (Acknowledgements). The benefit of this is that the book very much reads with the sweet flow of a Hallmark-style film. In fact, I think there was one point where my thought about finishing the book was more in context of “finishing a movie,” and I had to remind myself that it was actually a book I’d been enjoying.
As someone who very much gravitates toward Hallmark-esque plots, I do enjoy reading about characters living in “the Big City” with fascinating and (honestly) “impressive” careers. These were two elements of the story that definitely added to my personal enjoyment. But, the plot went beyond superficial romances and worldly notions of success, broaching questions of belonging and fulfillment. Whereas characters in stories are often asked to assess whether they are prepared to trade their “perfect” lives for romance, this lead grapples with her lack of fulfillment — and other characters speak into her questions with life experiences of their own.
As I reflect, there’s some thematic commonality between this book and 13 Going on 30 (one of my favorite movies, although there are some weird scenes), as far as the character getting “exactly what she wanted” (or, in this case, very close to it), but continuing to feel unfulfilled. While 13 Going on 30 takes a secular approach to this concept, with an overarching theme of gratitude (and, of course, true love), Chapter One Again explores themes of identity and faith.
I appreciated the main character’s personal reflections in terms of family relationships, as well. Since moving away from home at the age of 18, Jane has rarely looked back. In fact, aside from brief visits with her parents on her own turf, Jane has hardly seen her parents. She hasn’t even been home in five years, at the start of the story! In visiting her mom and dad for her mom’s birthday, Jane realizes that her parents are growing older, and it’s important that she spends time with them. She also has the opportunity to reconnect with Edith, the proprietor of the bookstore that Jane considered a second home during her teen years.
In a culture that values youth to the point of detriment, it was also refreshing to encounter Noah.
Additional Discussion
Our current culture prioritizes children and youth to the point of detriment, encouraging young people that their dreams matter most of all. Part of this message of entitlement is the expectation that parents give sacrificially to their children, while children are not expected to care for their parents.
In Chapter One Again, Jane was encouraged by her parents to “follow her dreams,” and since her dreams took her to New York, she has spent very little time with them over the past five years. In returning to her hometown, she realizes how much they have aged in her absence, and she begins to reflect on their time apart.
Jane learns that
I found Noah’s perspective to be refreshing, as some of Jane’s thoughts came off as a bit immature or… shaped by some of the negative elements in our culture, at points. With that said, she absolutely matures throughout the novel, so her earlier thought processes provide a context for comparison as far as character development. Additionally, because she’s an interesting and relatable character, I think that readers can benefit from her character arc (as the decision to take a step closer to one’s parents can be a bit counter-cultural in this day and age).
I would not have minded an even stronger counter-cultural emphasis in this regard, but I can acknowledge Jane’s growth.
Recommendation Status
A sweet romance with a relatable message, Chapter One Again is well-suited to young women / new adult readers who enjoy big city and small town settings. Recommended to readers who like Hallmark-style plots with a clear Christian message.
June 16, 2026
“Truly, the one and only place where you will find the kind of fulfillment that will last you a lifetime is in God.”
First, let me say that I’m so glad there is a sequel to Chapter One Again on the way because I wasn’t ready to leave these characters just yet. Debut novelist Keelia Clarkson has created several layered personalities and a quaint mountain town that made me want to grab a hot chocolate, pull up a reading chair in Edith’s bookstore, and chat with Jane and Noah and, yes, Edith too for a while. Bonus if Liv shows up in Avila Falls too (and you can bet I’m hoping for that in a future installment of this series).
We don’t start out the story in Avila Falls, however. No, the opening delightfully begins like movies such as You’ve Got Mail or The Devil Wears Prada do – a young professional woman on her way to work in New York City. And like those films, Jane’s trek from her apartment near Central Park to her publisher’s office in the West Village (where she works as a ghostwriter for celebrities wanting to pen their memoirs) filled me with the urge to visit Manhattan in autumn. All that was missing was Natalie Cole belting out Everlasting Love or Tom Hanks talking about sending Meg Ryan a bouquet of freshly sharpened pencils. (And don’t think I didn’t notice the clever nod to You’ve Got Mail – I absolutely did and it absolutely delighted me. If it wasn’t on purpose, I don’t want to know lol) Kicking off the story in New York serves perfectly to contrast Jane’s dreams and her roots. Because while I’d love to visit NYC in the fall or at Christmas one of these days, Jane’s hometown of Avila Falls is the kind of place I’d love to live. Right in the mountains with a collection of charming shops and gathering places, including the aforementioned bookshop, and maybe a different perspective on those dreams.
“You feel lost right now. I know. But I promise you—and I want you to hear me when I say this—you won’t stay lost forever. Not when God is preparing a way for you. Take heart. There is a way forward, and you will find it.”
I appreciated the faith themes and the sweet romance and the growth arcs overall, all well-written (even if I’m hoping a couple of those threads are developed further in the sequel) and all working together to give dimension to this story’s engaging characters. Jane’s parents (especially her dad) cracked me up with their classic parent behavior, as did Jane’s internal groans of Mom or Dad as they take turns unintentionally mortifying her lol. But I also loved seeing their clear adoration for her and their pride in her success. They’re the kind of parents everyone wants, and the kind of parents I was blessed to have, so it was special to see them depicted this way. The meet-cute between Jane and Noah (if it can still be called a meet-cute when they went to high school together) was really fun and endearing, wasn’t what I was expecting, and made me smile big. Also making me smile? The conversations Jane has with Liv, the current celebrity whose memoir she’s ghostwriting. These two ended up being kindred souls, and the things they talked about really jump-start most of Jane’s growth in the story. My favorite part of Chapter One Again however is Jane’s tender relationship with her beloved mentor (and aging bookstore owner) Edith who delivers lots of wisdom on these pages.
Bottom Line: Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson is an uplifting and entertaining story with a charming mountain setting, memorable relationships, and plenty of warmth. Jane may think that pursuing her dreams means she can’t look back, only forward, but as honest conversations develop between Jane and a variety of multidimensional characters, we’re reminded that sometimes we need a change of perspective. I loved meeting Jane, her parents, her high school crush Noah (now a very swoony man), her mentor Edith, and her celebrity client Liv, and I especially loved the role each played in pointing Jane to the true beat of her heart and the true Source of fulfillment & peace. This debut novel brims with personality and it has me eager for more time in Avila Falls. Chapter One Again would be a great next read for fans of Hallmark movies, small towns, quaint bookstores, cozy romances, and heartfelt themes.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
First, let me say that I’m so glad there is a sequel to Chapter One Again on the way because I wasn’t ready to leave these characters just yet. Debut novelist Keelia Clarkson has created several layered personalities and a quaint mountain town that made me want to grab a hot chocolate, pull up a reading chair in Edith’s bookstore, and chat with Jane and Noah and, yes, Edith too for a while. Bonus if Liv shows up in Avila Falls too (and you can bet I’m hoping for that in a future installment of this series).
We don’t start out the story in Avila Falls, however. No, the opening delightfully begins like movies such as You’ve Got Mail or The Devil Wears Prada do – a young professional woman on her way to work in New York City. And like those films, Jane’s trek from her apartment near Central Park to her publisher’s office in the West Village (where she works as a ghostwriter for celebrities wanting to pen their memoirs) filled me with the urge to visit Manhattan in autumn. All that was missing was Natalie Cole belting out Everlasting Love or Tom Hanks talking about sending Meg Ryan a bouquet of freshly sharpened pencils. (And don’t think I didn’t notice the clever nod to You’ve Got Mail – I absolutely did and it absolutely delighted me. If it wasn’t on purpose, I don’t want to know lol) Kicking off the story in New York serves perfectly to contrast Jane’s dreams and her roots. Because while I’d love to visit NYC in the fall or at Christmas one of these days, Jane’s hometown of Avila Falls is the kind of place I’d love to live. Right in the mountains with a collection of charming shops and gathering places, including the aforementioned bookshop, and maybe a different perspective on those dreams.
“You feel lost right now. I know. But I promise you—and I want you to hear me when I say this—you won’t stay lost forever. Not when God is preparing a way for you. Take heart. There is a way forward, and you will find it.”
I appreciated the faith themes and the sweet romance and the growth arcs overall, all well-written (even if I’m hoping a couple of those threads are developed further in the sequel) and all working together to give dimension to this story’s engaging characters. Jane’s parents (especially her dad) cracked me up with their classic parent behavior, as did Jane’s internal groans of Mom or Dad as they take turns unintentionally mortifying her lol. But I also loved seeing their clear adoration for her and their pride in her success. They’re the kind of parents everyone wants, and the kind of parents I was blessed to have, so it was special to see them depicted this way. The meet-cute between Jane and Noah (if it can still be called a meet-cute when they went to high school together) was really fun and endearing, wasn’t what I was expecting, and made me smile big. Also making me smile? The conversations Jane has with Liv, the current celebrity whose memoir she’s ghostwriting. These two ended up being kindred souls, and the things they talked about really jump-start most of Jane’s growth in the story. My favorite part of Chapter One Again however is Jane’s tender relationship with her beloved mentor (and aging bookstore owner) Edith who delivers lots of wisdom on these pages.
Bottom Line: Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson is an uplifting and entertaining story with a charming mountain setting, memorable relationships, and plenty of warmth. Jane may think that pursuing her dreams means she can’t look back, only forward, but as honest conversations develop between Jane and a variety of multidimensional characters, we’re reminded that sometimes we need a change of perspective. I loved meeting Jane, her parents, her high school crush Noah (now a very swoony man), her mentor Edith, and her celebrity client Liv, and I especially loved the role each played in pointing Jane to the true beat of her heart and the true Source of fulfillment & peace. This debut novel brims with personality and it has me eager for more time in Avila Falls. Chapter One Again would be a great next read for fans of Hallmark movies, small towns, quaint bookstores, cozy romances, and heartfelt themes.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of Advanced Reader Copy received from Netgalley.
Title: Chapter One Again
Author: Keelia Clarkson
My Summary:
Introverted, bookish Jane is working hard to fulfill her dream of becoming a writer in New York City. She feels like she's tantalizing close to achieving this dream. She's a ghostwriter for celebrity memoirs, hanging out with her glitzy friends, going on dates with actors, and has just submitted her own manuscript for review.
Yet, she can't help but feeling that something is missing. When her mom's 70th birthday brings her back home to Avila Falls, Colorado, she bumps into her longtime teenage crush, Noah. As she gets pulled back into her home and town, Jane has to decide what pursuing her dreams really means.
My Thoughts:
This debut novel by Keelia Clarkson is sweet, predictable, and very much a Hallmark romcom of a big city girl finding herself back in her small home town. Because of its predictability, it makes an excellent, cozy, quick, comfort read. I liked that the book focused on the emotional aspect of Jane and Noah's relationship, rather than the physical. I also appreciated that the author did add in a lot of faith content.
However, to me, this book definitely felt like a first attempt (mild spoilers ahead):
-This book read as more of a coming-of-age YA book than an adult novel. Jane is struggling with high school insecurities a decade later, and these insecurities and the things that happened in high school are mentioned a LOT of times, especially in the first half of the book. It became redundant, and also seemed a tad immature for someone who is almost 30 to still be constantly working through things that happened from ages 14-18. Most of the time, I felt like I was reading about a teenager.
-The first time we encounter Noah, he's really... awkward. Like one word or clipped sentence answers kind of awkward. Or maybe just rude. Whatever it is, we later find out he's perfectly capable of being very communicative. So I wasn't sure why his character behaves that way in the beginning.
-While I truly appreciated the overt faith content, I'm still not sure where Jane ended up. Has she she truly given her life to the Lord or is just exploring praying? But I don't want to discredit this as I know there's a sequel, so I'm going to assume we see more growth there.
-I found it incredibly hard to believe that Noah, who is a worship leader at His church and talks about his faith, would date a girl who doesn't even attend church or believes in a God who cares for her. Either he's not a strong in his faith as the author wants us to believe, or we're missing something.
-Jane and Noah's relationship fell flat for me. I really didn't understand why Noah decides to pursue Jane. Jane is very excited about Noah's interest, but I just couldn't figure out what was drawing these two people together.
-There's an elderly lady who is a secondary character in the book. When we first meet her, she forgets she talked to Jane within ten minutes, and then ten minutes after that second conversation, she locks Jane inside her store because she forgot she was there. This event of being locked inside a store is a major plot point in the book, but the catalyst (the woman's failing memory) is completely glossed over for the rest of the book. She is perfectly coherent during every other conversation after that, even under a very stressful situations in a different location. It seemed super convenient to have her memory fail to spur on the plot, but it never happen again on page later.
All in all, I think this writer has potential. She writes some beautiful descriptions, and I still would give her next book a chance.
If you are in the mood for a cozy, predictable, comfort read, give this one a try!
*Thank you to InterVarsity Press and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC for my honest feedback. All opinions are my own.
If you are in the mood for a cozy, predictable, comfort read, give this one a try!
*Thank you to InterVarsity Press and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC for my honest feedback. All opinions are my own.
Title: Chapter One Again
Author: Keelia Clarkson
My Summary:
Introverted, bookish Jane is working hard to fulfill her dream of becoming a writer in New York City. She feels like she's tantalizing close to achieving this dream. She's a ghostwriter for celebrity memoirs, hanging out with her glitzy friends, going on dates with actors, and has just submitted her own manuscript for review.
Yet, she can't help but feeling that something is missing. When her mom's 70th birthday brings her back home to Avila Falls, Colorado, she bumps into her longtime teenage crush, Noah. As she gets pulled back into her home and town, Jane has to decide what pursuing her dreams really means.
My Thoughts:
This debut novel by Keelia Clarkson is sweet, predictable, and very much a Hallmark romcom of a big city girl finding herself back in her small home town. Because of its predictability, it makes an excellent, cozy, quick, comfort read. I liked that the book focused on the emotional aspect of Jane and Noah's relationship, rather than the physical. I also appreciated that the author did add in a lot of faith content.
However, to me, this book definitely felt like a first attempt (mild spoilers ahead):
-This book read as more of a coming-of-age YA book than an adult novel. Jane is struggling with high school insecurities a decade later, and these insecurities and the things that happened in high school are mentioned a LOT of times, especially in the first half of the book. It became redundant, and also seemed a tad immature for someone who is almost 30 to still be constantly working through things that happened from ages 14-18. Most of the time, I felt like I was reading about a teenager.
-The first time we encounter Noah, he's really... awkward. Like one word or clipped sentence answers kind of awkward. Or maybe just rude. Whatever it is, we later find out he's perfectly capable of being very communicative. So I wasn't sure why his character behaves that way in the beginning.
-While I truly appreciated the overt faith content, I'm still not sure where Jane ended up. Has she she truly given her life to the Lord or is just exploring praying? But I don't want to discredit this as I know there's a sequel, so I'm going to assume we see more growth there.
-I found it incredibly hard to believe that Noah, who is a worship leader at His church and talks about his faith, would date a girl who doesn't even attend church or believes in a God who cares for her. Either he's not a strong in his faith as the author wants us to believe, or we're missing something.
-Jane and Noah's relationship fell flat for me. I really didn't understand why Noah decides to pursue Jane. Jane is very excited about Noah's interest, but I just couldn't figure out what was drawing these two people together.
-There's an elderly lady who is a secondary character in the book. When we first meet her, she forgets she talked to Jane within ten minutes, and then ten minutes after that second conversation, she locks Jane inside her store because she forgot she was there. This event of being locked inside a store is a major plot point in the book, but the catalyst (the woman's failing memory) is completely glossed over for the rest of the book. She is perfectly coherent during every other conversation after that, even under a very stressful situations in a different location. It seemed super convenient to have her memory fail to spur on the plot, but it never happen again on page later.
All in all, I think this writer has potential. She writes some beautiful descriptions, and I still would give her next book a chance.
If you are in the mood for a cozy, predictable, comfort read, give this one a try!
*Thank you to InterVarsity Press and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC for my honest feedback. All opinions are my own.
If you are in the mood for a cozy, predictable, comfort read, give this one a try!
*Thank you to InterVarsity Press and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC for my honest feedback. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson (2026)
Avila Falls #1
6h 39m narrated by the author - Keelia Clarkson, 208 pages
ALC courtesy of RBmedia, Recorded Books, and NetGalley
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance
Rating as a movie: PG-13
Featuring: New York City, New York; Transplant, Ghostwriter, Fictional Small-Town an hour from Denver Colorado; Homecoming Trope, Pop Star, Celebrities, Imposter Syndrome, Reconnection With Faith Trope, Second Chance Trope > High School Crush, Class of 2014, About to Be Tricenarians, Family Dynamics, Septuagenarians, Book About Books, Character Regression Trope, Self-Actualization, Church, Bookstore Owner, Musician, Sexual Innuendos, Purpose Trope
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½📚🗽✍️🏻👩💻🧑🎤✝️
My thoughts: Such a good story! This is a debut novel, and it reads so much like cozy contemporary fiction that I was actually on Chapter 6 before I realized it was Christian fiction. Keelia Clarkson explores Jane's relationship with the church and her loss of faith in prayer in a very cozy way. It never felt preachy; the story just went on for a couple of sentences about prayer at one point, and it made me go, "Oh, wait, is this a Christian book?" I also have to mention that Clarkson did a fantastic job narrating her own book. I loved all the different voices she used! Even if you don't typically read the genre, you can easily enjoy this. The plot was surprisingly unpredictable, I honestly didn't know where it was going! It did hit a slight lull near the end before the pace picked back up, which kept it from being a perfect five stars, but I'm still giving it the five-star round-up. I can't wait to see what she writes next. Based on those catchy business names, I'm guessing it'll involve a hair salon!
Recommend to others: Absolutely! This is the perfect book for someone who enjoys Cozy Romance.
Avila Falls
1. Chapter One Again (2026)
Songs for the soundtrack: "It's My Life" by Bon Jovi, "Love Story" by Taylor Swift, "Dear No One" by Tori Kelly, "Home" by Tori Kelly, Sufjan Stevens, "No Lies, Just Love" by Bright Eyes, "What Sarah Said" by Death Cab for Cutie, "Open Arms" by Journey, "Amazing Grace" by John Newton, "Sweet Surrender" by John Denver, "Hold On To Love" by Mumford & Sons
Books and Authors mentioned: Persuasion by Jane Austen, Law & Order by Dick Wolf, Charlotte Brontë, Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery, Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J. K. Rowling, Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, Pride and Prejudice by Andrew Davies [based on] Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen; The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by British author C. S. Lewis; Elf by David Berenbaum, Taxi Driver by Paul Schrader, The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien, Agatha Christie's Poirot by Clive Exton and others [based on] Hercule Poirot stories by Agatha Christie, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Barrows and Mary Ann Shaffer
Avila Falls #1
6h 39m narrated by the author - Keelia Clarkson, 208 pages
ALC courtesy of RBmedia, Recorded Books, and NetGalley
Genre: Contemporary Christian Romance
Rating as a movie: PG-13
Featuring: New York City, New York; Transplant, Ghostwriter, Fictional Small-Town an hour from Denver Colorado; Homecoming Trope, Pop Star, Celebrities, Imposter Syndrome, Reconnection With Faith Trope, Second Chance Trope > High School Crush, Class of 2014, About to Be Tricenarians, Family Dynamics, Septuagenarians, Book About Books, Character Regression Trope, Self-Actualization, Church, Bookstore Owner, Musician, Sexual Innuendos, Purpose Trope
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½📚🗽✍️🏻👩💻🧑🎤✝️
My thoughts: Such a good story! This is a debut novel, and it reads so much like cozy contemporary fiction that I was actually on Chapter 6 before I realized it was Christian fiction. Keelia Clarkson explores Jane's relationship with the church and her loss of faith in prayer in a very cozy way. It never felt preachy; the story just went on for a couple of sentences about prayer at one point, and it made me go, "Oh, wait, is this a Christian book?" I also have to mention that Clarkson did a fantastic job narrating her own book. I loved all the different voices she used! Even if you don't typically read the genre, you can easily enjoy this. The plot was surprisingly unpredictable, I honestly didn't know where it was going! It did hit a slight lull near the end before the pace picked back up, which kept it from being a perfect five stars, but I'm still giving it the five-star round-up. I can't wait to see what she writes next. Based on those catchy business names, I'm guessing it'll involve a hair salon!
Recommend to others: Absolutely! This is the perfect book for someone who enjoys Cozy Romance.
Avila Falls
1. Chapter One Again (2026)
Songs for the soundtrack: "It's My Life" by Bon Jovi, "Love Story" by Taylor Swift, "Dear No One" by Tori Kelly, "Home" by Tori Kelly, Sufjan Stevens, "No Lies, Just Love" by Bright Eyes, "What Sarah Said" by Death Cab for Cutie, "Open Arms" by Journey, "Amazing Grace" by John Newton, "Sweet Surrender" by John Denver, "Hold On To Love" by Mumford & Sons
Books and Authors mentioned: Persuasion by Jane Austen, Law & Order by Dick Wolf, Charlotte Brontë, Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery, Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J. K. Rowling, Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, Pride and Prejudice by Andrew Davies [based on] Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen; The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by British author C. S. Lewis; Elf by David Berenbaum, Taxi Driver by Paul Schrader, The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien, Agatha Christie's Poirot by Clive Exton and others [based on] Hercule Poirot stories by Agatha Christie, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Annie Barrows and Mary Ann Shaffer
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.
June 12, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of *Chapter One Again* by Keelia Clarkson in exchange for an honest review.
*Chapter One Again* is a warm and comforting debut that feels like curling up with a favorite blanket and a cup of tea. Filled with small-town charm, quiet romance, and themes of rediscovering yourself, this story offers a heartfelt journey that many readers will relate to.
Jane was an easy character to connect with. As a successful ghostwriter who has spent years helping tell other people's stories, I appreciated watching her question what she truly wanted for herself. Her struggles with career ambitions, identity, and finding fulfillment felt genuine and relatable, and I think many readers will see pieces of themselves in her journey.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was the setting. Avila Falls felt welcoming and cozy, with its bookstore, close-knit community, and familiar faces. The town almost became a character itself, creating the perfect backdrop for a story centered around second chances and finding your way home.
The romance between Jane and Noah is gentle and slow-burning, focusing more on emotional connection than grand gestures. Their relationship developed naturally, and I enjoyed getting to know them as individuals as well as a couple. The faith elements are woven throughout the story and play an important role, adding themes of purpose and trusting where life leads.
While the pacing is slower and more reflective, and I found myself wishing for a bit more closure in some areas by the end, I still found this to be a meaningful and uplifting read. The story is less about dramatic twists and more about growth, healing, and embracing new beginnings.
Overall, *Chapter One Again* is a heartfelt, cozy read full of charm and hope. Fans of clean romance, small-town fiction, and faith-based stories with emotional depth will find plenty to love. I'm looking forward to returning to Avila Falls and seeing where the series goes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of *Chapter One Again* by Keelia Clarkson in exchange for an honest review.
*Chapter One Again* is a warm and comforting debut that feels like curling up with a favorite blanket and a cup of tea. Filled with small-town charm, quiet romance, and themes of rediscovering yourself, this story offers a heartfelt journey that many readers will relate to.
Jane was an easy character to connect with. As a successful ghostwriter who has spent years helping tell other people's stories, I appreciated watching her question what she truly wanted for herself. Her struggles with career ambitions, identity, and finding fulfillment felt genuine and relatable, and I think many readers will see pieces of themselves in her journey.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was the setting. Avila Falls felt welcoming and cozy, with its bookstore, close-knit community, and familiar faces. The town almost became a character itself, creating the perfect backdrop for a story centered around second chances and finding your way home.
The romance between Jane and Noah is gentle and slow-burning, focusing more on emotional connection than grand gestures. Their relationship developed naturally, and I enjoyed getting to know them as individuals as well as a couple. The faith elements are woven throughout the story and play an important role, adding themes of purpose and trusting where life leads.
While the pacing is slower and more reflective, and I found myself wishing for a bit more closure in some areas by the end, I still found this to be a meaningful and uplifting read. The story is less about dramatic twists and more about growth, healing, and embracing new beginnings.
Overall, *Chapter One Again* is a heartfelt, cozy read full of charm and hope. Fans of clean romance, small-town fiction, and faith-based stories with emotional depth will find plenty to love. I'm looking forward to returning to Avila Falls and seeing where the series goes next.
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. 💛
June 10, 2026
I picked this audiobook expecting a sweet, cozy romance, only to find myself pausing multiple times to keep from ugly crying.
Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson is a heartfelt and comforting story that stayed with me long after I finished it.
The story follows Jane, our FMC, who appears to be living the life she’s always dreamed of, yet constantly struggles with the feeling that she isn’t enough. Add in a charming small town setting and an adorable MMC, and you might think this is just another romance novel, but it goes so much deeper than that.
This book beautifully explores what it means to feel lost and unfulfilled, even when you have everything you once thought you wanted. It reminds us that external success doesn’t always
bring inner peace and that sometimes the answers we’re searching for come from slowing down, reflecting, and leaning on faith.
I’ll be honest, I haven’t read or listened to a Christian fiction novel since high school, and this story genuinely surprised me. It opened my eyes to how quickly life passes by and the
importance of appreciating God’s blessings in our everyday lives. The faith elements felt natural to the story and never overwhelming, making it accessible even for readers who may not typically pick up Christian fiction.
This story is narrated by the author who did an amazing job. Everything flows so well and Keelia is able to voice each character well.
Whether you’re a longtime Christian, someone exploring faith, or simply looking for an uplifting
and meaningful story, I highly recommend this book.
It delivers an important message without and reminds us of something we all need to hear sometimes:
You are enough.
Your life is enough.
And there is purpose in every chapter, even the ones you didn’t plan.
Thank you Keelia Clarkson and NetGalley for the opportunity to ARC listen to this audiobook
Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson is a heartfelt and comforting story that stayed with me long after I finished it.
The story follows Jane, our FMC, who appears to be living the life she’s always dreamed of, yet constantly struggles with the feeling that she isn’t enough. Add in a charming small town setting and an adorable MMC, and you might think this is just another romance novel, but it goes so much deeper than that.
This book beautifully explores what it means to feel lost and unfulfilled, even when you have everything you once thought you wanted. It reminds us that external success doesn’t always
bring inner peace and that sometimes the answers we’re searching for come from slowing down, reflecting, and leaning on faith.
I’ll be honest, I haven’t read or listened to a Christian fiction novel since high school, and this story genuinely surprised me. It opened my eyes to how quickly life passes by and the
importance of appreciating God’s blessings in our everyday lives. The faith elements felt natural to the story and never overwhelming, making it accessible even for readers who may not typically pick up Christian fiction.
This story is narrated by the author who did an amazing job. Everything flows so well and Keelia is able to voice each character well.
Whether you’re a longtime Christian, someone exploring faith, or simply looking for an uplifting
and meaningful story, I highly recommend this book.
It delivers an important message without and reminds us of something we all need to hear sometimes:
You are enough.
Your life is enough.
And there is purpose in every chapter, even the ones you didn’t plan.
Thank you Keelia Clarkson and NetGalley for the opportunity to ARC listen to this audiobook
July 8, 2026
What an unexpected gem.
From the very beginning, this book completely pulled me in, and before I knew it I was flying through it because I couldn’t put it down. It was one of those stories where “just one more chapter” quickly turned into reading late into the night and over my morning coffee.
The characters felt so real, and I found myself completely invested in Jane’s journey. Her dreams, insecurities, and determination were written in such a relatable way that I highlighted more quotes in this book than I normally ever do. One quote in particular about wanting to see your own name on the cover of a book really resonated with me as an aspiring author.
The romance was beautifully developed and never felt rushed. I loved watching the relationship grow naturally, and the emotional moments landed perfectly. There were plenty of sweet, heartwarming scenes, balanced with moments that genuinely made my heart ache.
What I appreciated most was that this wasn’t just a romance—it was also a story about chasing lifelong dreams, believing in yourself, and finding the courage to take the next step even when it feels impossible.
This was one of those books that reminded me why I love reading. The writing was engaging, the characters stayed with me, and I didn’t want it to end.
If you love heartfelt contemporary romance with emotional depth, relatable characters, and a story that leaves you smiling long after you’ve finished, I can’t recommend this one enough. A well-deserved ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. 📚💕
From the very beginning, this book completely pulled me in, and before I knew it I was flying through it because I couldn’t put it down. It was one of those stories where “just one more chapter” quickly turned into reading late into the night and over my morning coffee.
The characters felt so real, and I found myself completely invested in Jane’s journey. Her dreams, insecurities, and determination were written in such a relatable way that I highlighted more quotes in this book than I normally ever do. One quote in particular about wanting to see your own name on the cover of a book really resonated with me as an aspiring author.
The romance was beautifully developed and never felt rushed. I loved watching the relationship grow naturally, and the emotional moments landed perfectly. There were plenty of sweet, heartwarming scenes, balanced with moments that genuinely made my heart ache.
What I appreciated most was that this wasn’t just a romance—it was also a story about chasing lifelong dreams, believing in yourself, and finding the courage to take the next step even when it feels impossible.
This was one of those books that reminded me why I love reading. The writing was engaging, the characters stayed with me, and I didn’t want it to end.
If you love heartfelt contemporary romance with emotional depth, relatable characters, and a story that leaves you smiling long after you’ve finished, I can’t recommend this one enough. A well-deserved ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. 📚💕
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
Chapter One Again is the debut novel by Keelia Clarkson. It tells the story of Jane, a ghostwriter who wants to have her own novel published. A girl who has always felt like an outcast, she left her small Colorado hometown after graduation and moved to New York City. And yet that outsider feeling still lingers.
I can identify with Jane’s desire to be seen and loved. Her parents adore her but have never really understood her passion for books and writing. As someone with a similar small town story, I really connected with her need to find a different life. But like most people, Jane has found that changing her location and life circumstances didn’t fill that ache to be known. But if Jane’s outcast status doesn’t resonate, there is Noah who was the popular guy, the life of the party who has his own unfulfilled dreams. And the is Liv, a girl from another small town who did see all her dreams come to fruition and yet misses the simplicity of a normal life.
This is the first book in a series so not every question is answered, but the ending is satisfying. It is a short, easy read and a nice introduction to the characters and the town.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it.
This is Christian fiction so expect prayer and discussions of faith.
Family friendly.
Thanks to NetGalley and InterVarsity Press. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I can identify with Jane’s desire to be seen and loved. Her parents adore her but have never really understood her passion for books and writing. As someone with a similar small town story, I really connected with her need to find a different life. But like most people, Jane has found that changing her location and life circumstances didn’t fill that ache to be known. But if Jane’s outcast status doesn’t resonate, there is Noah who was the popular guy, the life of the party who has his own unfulfilled dreams. And the is Liv, a girl from another small town who did see all her dreams come to fruition and yet misses the simplicity of a normal life.
This is the first book in a series so not every question is answered, but the ending is satisfying. It is a short, easy read and a nice introduction to the characters and the town.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it.
This is Christian fiction so expect prayer and discussions of faith.
Family friendly.
Thanks to NetGalley and InterVarsity Press. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In high school so many of us dream of escaping the towns we grew up in and going somewhere exciting. That's exactly what the main character, Jane does in this book. She leaves her small mountain town right out of high school and moves to NYC and hasn't looked back. After things aren't going the way she had hoped they would, she decides to go back to visit her parents for her mom's 70th birthday. Going back years later, she realizes that maybe there are things beyond the glitz and glamor of the big city.
This book has a lot of character growth and it's great to see the main character Jane reconnect and rediscover who she's meant to be in her hometown. When the boy she had a crush on in high school who of course is now all grown up meets her as an adult, sparks fly!
Jane is an avid reader and ghostwrites celebrity memoirs, with the hope of getting her name on her own fictional book published by her employer. That dream and her love of books is central to the story. There are also some Christian faith elements in this book and the characters attend church which added some depth to the story for Christian readers.
The audiobook narration is well done and I really liked the narrator's voice.
If you like sweet small town romance and books about the girl who gets the hometown hottie, this book is for you!
Thank you to RB Media and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book has a lot of character growth and it's great to see the main character Jane reconnect and rediscover who she's meant to be in her hometown. When the boy she had a crush on in high school who of course is now all grown up meets her as an adult, sparks fly!
Jane is an avid reader and ghostwrites celebrity memoirs, with the hope of getting her name on her own fictional book published by her employer. That dream and her love of books is central to the story. There are also some Christian faith elements in this book and the characters attend church which added some depth to the story for Christian readers.
The audiobook narration is well done and I really liked the narrator's voice.
If you like sweet small town romance and books about the girl who gets the hometown hottie, this book is for you!
Thank you to RB Media and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Chapter One Again is a sweet, debut novel that feels like a story written straight from the author's heart, reading more like women's fiction than romance. Jane, a successful, but somewhat introverted ghostwriter, is living her dream life in the vibrant, bustling city of New York City. Yet, despite her accomplishments, she finds herself longing for more and begins to wrestle with purpose, finding love and a deeper sense of belonging.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the emotional depth of Jane's character and spending time in her thoughts, hopes and insecurities, which creates an intimate, reflective sense to this novel.
When Jane returns home to Colorado and reconnects with people from her past—including an old crush as well as an aging mentor—the story takes on a cozy, small-town charm that contrasts beautifully with the energy of New York City. Both settings felt vivid and alive, and I appreciated the reminder that home is often less about a place and more about the people who make it such.
While the plot felt somewhat melancholy at times, and I occasionally wished for deeper conversations between the characters, there was a heartwarming, introspective vibe to this story that made it something to cherish. It was easy to read, cozy and had a subtle faith tones that deepen with the story, leaving a beautiful message of a God who knows us, calls us to a purpose and deeply cares.
Overall, a charming, reflective romance filled with lovable characters, emotional honesty and themes of love, home and second chances.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the emotional depth of Jane's character and spending time in her thoughts, hopes and insecurities, which creates an intimate, reflective sense to this novel.
When Jane returns home to Colorado and reconnects with people from her past—including an old crush as well as an aging mentor—the story takes on a cozy, small-town charm that contrasts beautifully with the energy of New York City. Both settings felt vivid and alive, and I appreciated the reminder that home is often less about a place and more about the people who make it such.
While the plot felt somewhat melancholy at times, and I occasionally wished for deeper conversations between the characters, there was a heartwarming, introspective vibe to this story that made it something to cherish. It was easy to read, cozy and had a subtle faith tones that deepen with the story, leaving a beautiful message of a God who knows us, calls us to a purpose and deeply cares.
Overall, a charming, reflective romance filled with lovable characters, emotional honesty and themes of love, home and second chances.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.
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.
June 14, 2026
Keelia Clarkson’s debut novel, “Chapter One Again: A Novel”, is also the start of a series “Avila Falls”. Jane Caldwell moved to New York City ten years ago to go to college and then stayed to make her mark. She’s become a successful ghostwriter of memoirs for Carmichael Publishing. She has also completed her first novel and is waiting for the approval of her submission for publication at Carmichael. She decides to return home to Avila Falls, Colorado, for her mother’s 70th birthday. While there she renews her previous friendships with people like Noah Elliot and Edith, the towns bookstore owner. Things have remained the same but somethings have changed, including that her parents and Edith are getting older. So Jane decides to extend her visit thru Christmas so she can reconnect with her family and friends. She also ends up reassessing her own life. Where will she end up?
This was a fun, mood-lifting book to read. All of us have experiences and wishes that don’t always turn out quite as we expect. This story takes that premise and runs with it. Most of us don’t get the chance to revisit our past choices so this is an opportunity to look and adjust where these choices can take us. I’m looking forward to the continuation of the “Avila falls” series to see who in the town will be the focus of the next book. Readers who like second chance romances and small town stories will enjoy this book.
I wish to thank Inter Varsity Press for the complimentary eARC of this book and for selecting me to review it on NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#ChapterOneAgain
#InterVarsityPress
#NetGalley
#SecondChanceRomance
This was a fun, mood-lifting book to read. All of us have experiences and wishes that don’t always turn out quite as we expect. This story takes that premise and runs with it. Most of us don’t get the chance to revisit our past choices so this is an opportunity to look and adjust where these choices can take us. I’m looking forward to the continuation of the “Avila falls” series to see who in the town will be the focus of the next book. Readers who like second chance romances and small town stories will enjoy this book.
I wish to thank Inter Varsity Press for the complimentary eARC of this book and for selecting me to review it on NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#ChapterOneAgain
#InterVarsityPress
#NetGalley
#SecondChanceRomance
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This review by librarian Christine Barth was first published in the May 2026 issue of Library Journal.
Outwardly, Jane is living the dream in New York City with a solid group of friends and a well-paying job that connects her with celebrities; she's happy to be far from stifling Avila Falls, CO, where her kind, but distant, parents live.
Inwardly, though, Jane yearns to write her own novels rather than ghostwriting for the stars and feels like her 30s have come without much to show for them. When she returns home for her mother's 70th birthday, she accidentally gets locked in a bookstore with her old high school crush.
Romance ensues, but Jane is planning to return to New York. The more time she spends in the very place she tried so hard to escape, though, the more she questions her priorities.
VERDICT: Screenwriter and actress Clarkson's debut novel draws on her industry experience to create a town that readers will want to return to in future books. Similar reads involving small-town second chances include Irene Hannon's "Hope Harbor" and Denise Hunter's "Riverbend Romance" series.
Outwardly, Jane is living the dream in New York City with a solid group of friends and a well-paying job that connects her with celebrities; she's happy to be far from stifling Avila Falls, CO, where her kind, but distant, parents live.
Inwardly, though, Jane yearns to write her own novels rather than ghostwriting for the stars and feels like her 30s have come without much to show for them. When she returns home for her mother's 70th birthday, she accidentally gets locked in a bookstore with her old high school crush.
Romance ensues, but Jane is planning to return to New York. The more time she spends in the very place she tried so hard to escape, though, the more she questions her priorities.
VERDICT: Screenwriter and actress Clarkson's debut novel draws on her industry experience to create a town that readers will want to return to in future books. Similar reads involving small-town second chances include Irene Hannon's "Hope Harbor" and Denise Hunter's "Riverbend Romance" series.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This review by librarian Christine Barth was first published in the May 2026 issue of Library Journal.
Outwardly, Jane is living the dream in New York City with a solid group of friends and a well-paying job that connects her with celebrities; she's happy to be far from stifling Avila Falls, CO, where her kind, but distant, parents live.
Inwardly, though, Jane yearns to write her own novels rather than ghostwriting for the stars and feels like her 30s have come without much to show for them. When she returns home for her mother's 70th birthday, she accidentally gets locked in a bookstore with her old high school crush.
Romance ensues, but Jane is planning to return to New York. The more time she spends in the very place she tried so hard to escape, though, the more she questions her priorities.
VERDICT: Screenwriter and actress Clarkson's debut novel draws on her industry experience to create a town that readers will want to return to in future books. Similar reads involving small-town second chances include Irene Hannon's "Hope Harbor" and Denise Hunter's "Riverbend Romance" series.
Outwardly, Jane is living the dream in New York City with a solid group of friends and a well-paying job that connects her with celebrities; she's happy to be far from stifling Avila Falls, CO, where her kind, but distant, parents live.
Inwardly, though, Jane yearns to write her own novels rather than ghostwriting for the stars and feels like her 30s have come without much to show for them. When she returns home for her mother's 70th birthday, she accidentally gets locked in a bookstore with her old high school crush.
Romance ensues, but Jane is planning to return to New York. The more time she spends in the very place she tried so hard to escape, though, the more she questions her priorities.
VERDICT: Screenwriter and actress Clarkson's debut novel draws on her industry experience to create a town that readers will want to return to in future books. Similar reads involving small-town second chances include Irene Hannon's "Hope Harbor" and Denise Hunter's "Riverbend Romance" series.
June 7, 2026
Actual rating: 4.24 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
What a sweet clean romance 💝
I listened to this book within 24 hours. It was such a heartwastory of Jane, who has fled the Colorado mountain town to live in the big city a decade ago and finds herself drawn back.
The town is a place where I want to live 🏔️
The side characters were the sweetest people and I want them all to be my friends ♥️
The MMC was a golden retriever of a man and so caring 🐶
The faith themes felt natural and unforced 🙏🏻
The struggle and identity crisis the FMC went through were relatable and felt real ❤️
I especially enjoyed the outlook on life and how the hand wasn’t a simple “and they lived happily ever after”, but a “she changed the direction of her life and there is hope”.
The audio narrator did a great job. I felt she was especially well cast for voicing the emotions of our FMC who speaks in first person. At times it felt like I was listening to a friend recounting how she as met her husband ♥️
I hope there will be more books in this series! I want to see how Jane and Noah continue (and I assume they will be GREAT side characters) 😊
I received this audiobook as an ARC through NetGalley
What a sweet clean romance 💝
I listened to this book within 24 hours. It was such a heartwastory of Jane, who has fled the Colorado mountain town to live in the big city a decade ago and finds herself drawn back.
The town is a place where I want to live 🏔️
The side characters were the sweetest people and I want them all to be my friends ♥️
The MMC was a golden retriever of a man and so caring 🐶
The faith themes felt natural and unforced 🙏🏻
The struggle and identity crisis the FMC went through were relatable and felt real ❤️
I especially enjoyed the outlook on life and how the hand wasn’t a simple “and they lived happily ever after”, but a “she changed the direction of her life and there is hope”.
The audio narrator did a great job. I felt she was especially well cast for voicing the emotions of our FMC who speaks in first person. At times it felt like I was listening to a friend recounting how she as met her husband ♥️
I hope there will be more books in this series! I want to see how Jane and Noah continue (and I assume they will be GREAT side characters) 😊
I received this audiobook as an ARC through NetGalley
June 26, 2026
Chapter One Again: A Novel by Keelia Clarkson is a cozy second-chance romance. Jane is a ghostwriter in New York City, but longs to write her own novels. She takes a trip home to Avilla Falls, Colorado to see her parents and in the process begins to see her hometown differently, her life choices and what she wants for the future.
Jane was a relatable character who I found refreshing. I enjoyed getting to know Jane on her journey as she took an honest appraisal of her heart, life, and rediscovered what was important to her. Noah, someone she knew of in high school, was a great love interest. The author magically wove in so many thoughtful themes of beauty, redemption, and realizing what is important in life.
Chapter One Again was a cozy, uplifting, and a sweet story that helps you remember there is so much beauty in our day to day lives. I enjoyed visiting the Colorado town of Avila Falls and am looking forward to returning in the second book, Page Two with You. I highly recommend Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson. This will be a 2026 favorite for me.
I was gifted a copy and not required to write a positive review.
Jane was a relatable character who I found refreshing. I enjoyed getting to know Jane on her journey as she took an honest appraisal of her heart, life, and rediscovered what was important to her. Noah, someone she knew of in high school, was a great love interest. The author magically wove in so many thoughtful themes of beauty, redemption, and realizing what is important in life.
Chapter One Again was a cozy, uplifting, and a sweet story that helps you remember there is so much beauty in our day to day lives. I enjoyed visiting the Colorado town of Avila Falls and am looking forward to returning in the second book, Page Two with You. I highly recommend Chapter One Again by Keelia Clarkson. This will be a 2026 favorite for me.
I was gifted a copy and not required to write a positive review.
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 faith based debut novel is about Jane who is at a crossroads in life. With a career in New York and aspirations to be a author of her own novel, the last thing she thought would challenge her plans is a trip home. Her aging parents, elderly bookshop owner who may sell, her high school crush Noah, and relationship with the church all gave her pause and helped her reflect on her life and question her true home and fulfillment.
This is a faith based romance that really focuses on living a life full of meaning. In a small town, Jane felt like getting out would be the only way to make her dreams come true. With minimal drama, a close knit community, and lots of reflecting, Jane finds her peace in accepting what is currently best for her and not living out what she thought a successful life would look like.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for the e-ARC of Chapter One Again in exchange for an honest review. As nice of a read this was and Jane and Noah are on the same page at the ending, I really hope their stories are developed throughout further novels.
This is a faith based romance that really focuses on living a life full of meaning. In a small town, Jane felt like getting out would be the only way to make her dreams come true. With minimal drama, a close knit community, and lots of reflecting, Jane finds her peace in accepting what is currently best for her and not living out what she thought a successful life would look like.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for the e-ARC of Chapter One Again in exchange for an honest review. As nice of a read this was and Jane and Noah are on the same page at the ending, I really hope their stories are developed throughout further novels.
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