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A Merry Little Second Chance
Nothing says “Welcome Home” like running into the only girl you will ever love on your first day back.
Ella James, the woman of my dreams. The girl who, despite shattering my heart into a million pieces, is still my one true love. Even after years of not seeing her, she looks the same, if not more beautiful.
The moment her big, crystal blue eyes met mine as my daughter and puppy stared up at her, I was a goner. Our lives may be drastically different from what they once were, but one thing remains the Ella James is mine.
I have gone to hell and back, and now that I am home for good, I want nothing more than to have her by my side. Even if she is going to fight me the entire time. I will not give up. Ever.
While she is busy making everyone else’s Christmas dreams come to life, little does she know, I have a Christmas list of my own. Every single item being a way to win her back. And I’ll be damned if I let a single one go ungranted.
Ella James, the woman of my dreams. The girl who, despite shattering my heart into a million pieces, is still my one true love. Even after years of not seeing her, she looks the same, if not more beautiful.
The moment her big, crystal blue eyes met mine as my daughter and puppy stared up at her, I was a goner. Our lives may be drastically different from what they once were, but one thing remains the Ella James is mine.
I have gone to hell and back, and now that I am home for good, I want nothing more than to have her by my side. Even if she is going to fight me the entire time. I will not give up. Ever.
While she is busy making everyone else’s Christmas dreams come to life, little does she know, I have a Christmas list of my own. Every single item being a way to win her back. And I’ll be damned if I let a single one go ungranted.
88 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 18, 2025
2 people are currently reading
6 people want to read
About the author
J. Laine
10 books138 followersWriter that breaks your heart but heals it in the best way.
Debut Novel Accepting Fate on Zon and KU!
Debut Novel Accepting Fate on Zon and KU!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
December 22, 2025
This was such a cute short Christmas read. Austin and Ella were so good together. From high school sweethearts who broke up to grief-ridden adults who found their way back to each other, they felt inevitable. This was an emotional and entertaining read.
December 20, 2025
Nothing says “Welcome Home” like running into the only girl you will ever love on your first day back.
Ella James, the woman of Austin’s dreams. The girl who, despite shattering his heart into a million pieces, is still his one true love. Even after years of not seeing her, she looks the same, if not more beautiful.
The moment her big, crystal blue eyes met his as his daughter and puppy stared up at her, Austin was a goner. Our lives may be drastically different from what they once were, but one thing remains the Ella James is mine.
Austin may have gone to hell and back, and now that he is home for good, he wants nothing more than to have her by his side. Even if she is going to fight him the entire time. He will not give up. Ever.
While she is busy making everyone else’s Christmas dreams come to life, little does she know, Austin has a Christmas list of his own. Every single item being a way to win her back. And he’ll be damned if he lets a single one go ungranted.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Small-Town, Coming Home, Second-Chances, Young Lovers to Enemies to Lovers, Single Dad, Puppy, Christmas Dreams Come True, Fighting for Her, Nostalgia, heart-tugging/warming nostalgia, dreams.
A Merry Little Second Chance is the 9th book in The Christmas Playlist a multi-author series. This book is brought to us by J. Laine.
Oh my, J. Laine has given us everything that you want in a small-town second-chance romance – the small-town magic, heart-tugging/warming nostalgia, and the dreams and everything else that you want to see in a second-chance romance that draws you in and keeps you enthralled and captivated.
In A Merry Little Second Chance J. Laine has given us this tender, hopeful story that she has packed with every emotion that makes you want to just curl up in your favorite chair with your favorite blanket and a cup of tea or hot chocolate and never leave Evergreen Ridge.
Austin Maxwell is the perfect book-boyfriend from the first moment we meet him as he’s stepping back into his home town. And when he crosses paths with Ella James, the one woman he never stopped loving, you can feel their chemistry and theirs just something so electric and achingly sentimental about that moment.
As they stand there, their eyes locked on each other, you can feel every moment of the years that separated them, all the miles that had been put between them, and all the bruises of their shattered hearts, and you can feel all the longing that hums between them as they are reunited. And I love that J. Laine didn’t rush a moment of their reunion; she allowed for the time needed for their past and history to settle between them, she allowed for the time needed for the past to breath, and then finally and stunningly, she allowed Austin and Ella to slowly rebuild the trust between them.
J. Laine made this novella hit harder with the emotional weight that both Austin and Ella carry with them. They both have a decade of loss that could have made their story so much heavier than it was, but rather, it infused their story with a depth and soul that was so beautiful.
Austin has this determination to win back Ella, to win back not only Ella’s heart but also her trust, and this just makes him so much more of a dream guy. He never pushes or forces himself on Ella. He’s not arrogant; he’s just sure that Ella is his future, and he’s willing to do whatever he needs to do to prove that to Ella, and he’s willing to work to prove it. And he has a steady devotion that just melted my heart and made me wish that every woman was lucky enough to have an Austin type kind of guy in their life.
And then we have Holly. She’s such a sweet, bright, stunningly adorable and just to cute for her own good. I found that Holly brought such a delightful warmth to this story and I found that she not only light up every scene she was in, she nearly stole every scene she was in. And it was the same for that fluffy ball of fun companion Noel. Noel manages to bring more sprinkle of charm that makes the novella almost feel like you’re reading a Hallmark movie – it’s so cozy, comforting, and it’s filled with these small moments that you can’t help but grin at.
I fell in love with Evergreen Ridge. I wish I could move to this small-town. I would be so at home here. It just blazed with so much delight and it gave the perfect festive backdrop for this festive backdrop for this romance full of healing and hope. I loved the snowy nights, sparkly lights, an MMC in Austin who you know never stopped caring about Ella. And our FMC Ella learned that really did deserve to be happy and everything just wove together into this tantalising, festive second-chance love story.
I have to say that J. Laine just nailed this second-chance trope with all the heart, warmth, and she gave us the holiday sparkle that we wanted and could ask for.
If you are in search of a romance that makes you feel like you are stepping into a perfect snow globe and your being wrapped up in your favorite blanket, A Merry Little Second Chance is the novella you’re looking for and if you as me, this is a MUST-READ. I think it will leave you glowing, just like it did me.
Ella James, the woman of Austin’s dreams. The girl who, despite shattering his heart into a million pieces, is still his one true love. Even after years of not seeing her, she looks the same, if not more beautiful.
The moment her big, crystal blue eyes met his as his daughter and puppy stared up at her, Austin was a goner. Our lives may be drastically different from what they once were, but one thing remains the Ella James is mine.
Austin may have gone to hell and back, and now that he is home for good, he wants nothing more than to have her by his side. Even if she is going to fight him the entire time. He will not give up. Ever.
While she is busy making everyone else’s Christmas dreams come to life, little does she know, Austin has a Christmas list of his own. Every single item being a way to win her back. And he’ll be damned if he lets a single one go ungranted.
YOU'RE MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. There is some content and scenes in this book that are not suitable for all readers and could be triggering for others. Always remember that your mental health comes first at all times.
Tropes: Small-Town, Coming Home, Second-Chances, Young Lovers to Enemies to Lovers, Single Dad, Puppy, Christmas Dreams Come True, Fighting for Her, Nostalgia, heart-tugging/warming nostalgia, dreams.
A Merry Little Second Chance is the 9th book in The Christmas Playlist a multi-author series. This book is brought to us by J. Laine.
Oh my, J. Laine has given us everything that you want in a small-town second-chance romance – the small-town magic, heart-tugging/warming nostalgia, and the dreams and everything else that you want to see in a second-chance romance that draws you in and keeps you enthralled and captivated.
In A Merry Little Second Chance J. Laine has given us this tender, hopeful story that she has packed with every emotion that makes you want to just curl up in your favorite chair with your favorite blanket and a cup of tea or hot chocolate and never leave Evergreen Ridge.
Austin Maxwell is the perfect book-boyfriend from the first moment we meet him as he’s stepping back into his home town. And when he crosses paths with Ella James, the one woman he never stopped loving, you can feel their chemistry and theirs just something so electric and achingly sentimental about that moment.
As they stand there, their eyes locked on each other, you can feel every moment of the years that separated them, all the miles that had been put between them, and all the bruises of their shattered hearts, and you can feel all the longing that hums between them as they are reunited. And I love that J. Laine didn’t rush a moment of their reunion; she allowed for the time needed for their past and history to settle between them, she allowed for the time needed for the past to breath, and then finally and stunningly, she allowed Austin and Ella to slowly rebuild the trust between them.
J. Laine made this novella hit harder with the emotional weight that both Austin and Ella carry with them. They both have a decade of loss that could have made their story so much heavier than it was, but rather, it infused their story with a depth and soul that was so beautiful.
Austin has this determination to win back Ella, to win back not only Ella’s heart but also her trust, and this just makes him so much more of a dream guy. He never pushes or forces himself on Ella. He’s not arrogant; he’s just sure that Ella is his future, and he’s willing to do whatever he needs to do to prove that to Ella, and he’s willing to work to prove it. And he has a steady devotion that just melted my heart and made me wish that every woman was lucky enough to have an Austin type kind of guy in their life.
And then we have Holly. She’s such a sweet, bright, stunningly adorable and just to cute for her own good. I found that Holly brought such a delightful warmth to this story and I found that she not only light up every scene she was in, she nearly stole every scene she was in. And it was the same for that fluffy ball of fun companion Noel. Noel manages to bring more sprinkle of charm that makes the novella almost feel like you’re reading a Hallmark movie – it’s so cozy, comforting, and it’s filled with these small moments that you can’t help but grin at.
I fell in love with Evergreen Ridge. I wish I could move to this small-town. I would be so at home here. It just blazed with so much delight and it gave the perfect festive backdrop for this festive backdrop for this romance full of healing and hope. I loved the snowy nights, sparkly lights, an MMC in Austin who you know never stopped caring about Ella. And our FMC Ella learned that really did deserve to be happy and everything just wove together into this tantalising, festive second-chance love story.
I have to say that J. Laine just nailed this second-chance trope with all the heart, warmth, and she gave us the holiday sparkle that we wanted and could ask for.
If you are in search of a romance that makes you feel like you are stepping into a perfect snow globe and your being wrapped up in your favorite blanket, A Merry Little Second Chance is the novella you’re looking for and if you as me, this is a MUST-READ. I think it will leave you glowing, just like it did me.
December 30, 2025
ARC Review - Twisted Chaos PR
I think I have written this review three times now and I hope it sticks. Cause every time I come back to add some more after reading it somehow disappears, and with the holidays last week I was unable to actually sit down and make sure everything was still there for me to post. So, I apologize that this is late, but fret not because I loved every minute of this book! Another J Laine book in 2025! I am so grateful to be a part of her team and get the chance to review her new works!
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Ella: nurse (clinic + home), hardworking, caring
Austin: ex-USMC, hardworking, godfather
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This is the perfect short story for a winter romance! I loved every moment of Ella and Austin's chemistry and dynamic. After Austin returns home he runs into the one person, he never thought he would see again, Ella James. You could just feel the sparks between these two and the pure happiness and love they had for each other. Both experienced grief that broke them down a bit but now that they are surrounded by their loved ones and each other they slow open up and find happiness again. I am so glad these two found each other again and gave each other a second chance for their happy ending.
I think I have written this review three times now and I hope it sticks. Cause every time I come back to add some more after reading it somehow disappears, and with the holidays last week I was unable to actually sit down and make sure everything was still there for me to post. So, I apologize that this is late, but fret not because I loved every minute of this book! Another J Laine book in 2025! I am so grateful to be a part of her team and get the chance to review her new works!
-----------------------------------------------
Ella: nurse (clinic + home), hardworking, caring
Austin: ex-USMC, hardworking, godfather
-----------------------------------------------
This is the perfect short story for a winter romance! I loved every moment of Ella and Austin's chemistry and dynamic. After Austin returns home he runs into the one person, he never thought he would see again, Ella James. You could just feel the sparks between these two and the pure happiness and love they had for each other. Both experienced grief that broke them down a bit but now that they are surrounded by their loved ones and each other they slow open up and find happiness again. I am so glad these two found each other again and gave each other a second chance for their happy ending.
December 19, 2025
“I know. Now is not the time, but oh Ellie baby, you have no idea how screwed you are.”
When Austin moves back home after gaining custody of his best friend’s daughter, the last person he expected to run into was Ella James. The one girl he never got over. So much time has passed, and they’ve both endured heartbreak and loss that has changed them. But as they spend more time together, they realize their feelings never truly faded. And when Ella is within Austin’s reach, he will do anything for a second chance. And this man is sweet, charming, and hands down determined to win her back!
Austin and Ella’s story is short, (I honestly could have used an entire novel about these two!), but it’s one of the sweetest second chance novellas I’ve read! And from the moment these two lay eyes on each other again? The chemistry and tension is palpable through the pages!
While this is a different side to J. Laine, she truly knocked it out of the park. Her writing is beautiful, emotional and heartfelt. If she writes it, I’m reading it. Without a doubt.
I truly appreciate the opportunity to have received a gifted copy, and my honest is honest and voluntary.
When Austin moves back home after gaining custody of his best friend’s daughter, the last person he expected to run into was Ella James. The one girl he never got over. So much time has passed, and they’ve both endured heartbreak and loss that has changed them. But as they spend more time together, they realize their feelings never truly faded. And when Ella is within Austin’s reach, he will do anything for a second chance. And this man is sweet, charming, and hands down determined to win her back!
Austin and Ella’s story is short, (I honestly could have used an entire novel about these two!), but it’s one of the sweetest second chance novellas I’ve read! And from the moment these two lay eyes on each other again? The chemistry and tension is palpable through the pages!
While this is a different side to J. Laine, she truly knocked it out of the park. Her writing is beautiful, emotional and heartfelt. If she writes it, I’m reading it. Without a doubt.
I truly appreciate the opportunity to have received a gifted copy, and my honest is honest and voluntary.
December 2, 2025
Huge thank you to the twisted chaos pa team and to the author for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest and spoiler free review as part of the Christmas playlist series.
I can’t believe this is only a short little novella! I absolutely adored this one so much. Ella and Austin were perfect together and I loved seeing the two of them reunite after so long. They made such a beautiful second chance story come to life for the holiday season and I wish I could have read more about them. There is something about them that just made me feel all the giddy feelings as I enjoyed seeing them both be so supportive of each other and how they both wanted to be there for each other especially when they realized just how much each other went through during their years apart. The addition of Holly and Noel brought the sweet, child like love and joy for the holidays and seeing both Ella and Austin’s family being there for them and supporting them as well, just gave me all the warm fuzzy feelings. I am so happy we got that epilogue and it made for the perfect ending for this novella and Ella and Austin’s story.
I can’t believe this is only a short little novella! I absolutely adored this one so much. Ella and Austin were perfect together and I loved seeing the two of them reunite after so long. They made such a beautiful second chance story come to life for the holiday season and I wish I could have read more about them. There is something about them that just made me feel all the giddy feelings as I enjoyed seeing them both be so supportive of each other and how they both wanted to be there for each other especially when they realized just how much each other went through during their years apart. The addition of Holly and Noel brought the sweet, child like love and joy for the holidays and seeing both Ella and Austin’s family being there for them and supporting them as well, just gave me all the warm fuzzy feelings. I am so happy we got that epilogue and it made for the perfect ending for this novella and Ella and Austin’s story.
December 1, 2025
A Merry Little Miracle: J. Laine's Heart-Melting Second Chance
I absolutely adored this! J. Laine absolutely nails the second-chance trope with heart and warmth. Austin and Ella’s story is infused with soul, demonstrating how they support each other through healing a decade of loss.
You can feel the quiet longing and electric chemistry between them as Austin, the determined and swoon-worthy hero, slowly, beautifully rebuilds Ella's trust. This novella is packed with the kind of emotions that leave you glowing from the inside out.
"A phenomenal second-chance love story! Austin's steady devotion is downright heart-melting, and the addition of Holly and Noel brings pure holiday joy."
If you're craving a romance that feels like stepping into a snow globe and being wrapped in pure comfort, A Merry Little Second Chance is a must-read.
Huge thank you to the Twisted Chaos PA team and to J. Laine for the gifted eARC in exchange for this honest, spoiler-free review as part of the Christmas Playlist series.
I absolutely adored this! J. Laine absolutely nails the second-chance trope with heart and warmth. Austin and Ella’s story is infused with soul, demonstrating how they support each other through healing a decade of loss.
You can feel the quiet longing and electric chemistry between them as Austin, the determined and swoon-worthy hero, slowly, beautifully rebuilds Ella's trust. This novella is packed with the kind of emotions that leave you glowing from the inside out.
"A phenomenal second-chance love story! Austin's steady devotion is downright heart-melting, and the addition of Holly and Noel brings pure holiday joy."
If you're craving a romance that feels like stepping into a snow globe and being wrapped in pure comfort, A Merry Little Second Chance is a must-read.
Huge thank you to the Twisted Chaos PA team and to J. Laine for the gifted eARC in exchange for this honest, spoiler-free review as part of the Christmas Playlist series.
January 2, 2026
J's books always hit differently and always in the best way. They deal with hard issues and things not all people want in their romance books, but the love that comes with it is the most amazing feeling. This book dealt with so much but still had an amazing feeling reading about Ella and Austin's love for each other. They were together in high school, but their lives ended up going in different directions. Austin was in the Marines but has since moved back home with his daughter after his contract was ended. Ella was working as a nurse in TX but has recently moved home after an accident that took her dad's life and injured her mom. Neither of them knew what the other was dealing with but being in a small town, you tend to cross paths. They both still have feelings for each other, but Ella doesn't want to take the chance of hurting him again. Austin makes his Christmas wishes and does everything he can to make sure they come true.
December 18, 2025
Merry Little Second Chance is the definition of a heart-stealing, second-chance Christmas romance. From the very first moment—when he walks back into town and straight into the woman who still owns his heart—I was completely hooked. Ella James is everything: strong, unforgettable, and impossible not to love, especially when seen through his eyes.
This story is packed with longing, regret, devotion, and that undeniable pull between two people who never truly stopped loving each other. Add in a single dad, a sweet daughter, a puppy, and a man who has been to hell and back but refuses to give up on the woman who shattered—and still owns—his heart? Absolute perfection.
The emotional depth, the Christmas magic, and his unwavering determination to win her back made this book impossible to put down. Every page felt like a promise that some loves are worth fighting for—no matter how hard the battle. A must-read for anyone who believes in second chances, soulmates, and love that never lets go. 🎄💙
This story is packed with longing, regret, devotion, and that undeniable pull between two people who never truly stopped loving each other. Add in a single dad, a sweet daughter, a puppy, and a man who has been to hell and back but refuses to give up on the woman who shattered—and still owns—his heart? Absolute perfection.
The emotional depth, the Christmas magic, and his unwavering determination to win her back made this book impossible to put down. Every page felt like a promise that some loves are worth fighting for—no matter how hard the battle. A must-read for anyone who believes in second chances, soulmates, and love that never lets go. 🎄💙
December 14, 2025
Tear out my heart then stitch it back together why don’t you. Austin and Ella were high school sweethearts that broke up almost a decade ago, life hasn’t been easy but it has finally brought them back to their home town at the same time. Austin is a man determined, he knows what he wants and he is not walking away from the girl of his dreams a second time he will fight and does throughout the book to win Ella back. This is a very cute second chance romance with a bit of life’s heart break and life’s joys sprinkled in. I loved ever second of it. Thank you to twisted chaos pa for the opportunity to ARC this fantastic story.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🫑
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🫑
December 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ // 🌶 🌶
A Merry Little Second Chance by J. Laine is Book 9 in The Christmas Playlist Series.
This was an extremely good, emotional and heartfelt cozy read. It had a smidge of open door spice. This story was very wrong time, right place for the star-crossed lovers, Ella and Austin.
When they reunite they've gone through numerous struggles. Experienced grief so immense where they would have done anything to comfort the other had they known.
There were many cute moments throughout this short read. I loved how it played out. No, its not some ex-cheater second chance. Just wrong time. Different dreams. Different ambitions. It's worth the read.
A Merry Little Second Chance by J. Laine is Book 9 in The Christmas Playlist Series.
This was an extremely good, emotional and heartfelt cozy read. It had a smidge of open door spice. This story was very wrong time, right place for the star-crossed lovers, Ella and Austin.
When they reunite they've gone through numerous struggles. Experienced grief so immense where they would have done anything to comfort the other had they known.
There were many cute moments throughout this short read. I loved how it played out. No, its not some ex-cheater second chance. Just wrong time. Different dreams. Different ambitions. It's worth the read.
December 4, 2025
J. I have absolutely no idea how you manage to fit some many emotions into a novella. I adore Holly and Noel! I know the book wasn’t about them but they brought the laughter. I love how Austin figured out how to be a father even when he was struggling and how he never let go of Elle. Also the grief, loss, reconnection, trauma - so real and so true- i love how J takes you directly into the hard stuff no one wants to talk about and brings it to the light because most of us have all dealt with similar emotions
December 7, 2025
This was such a cute little Christmas novella
Who would have thought a run away dog would create such a sweet little Christmas love story!
Ella and Austin were highschool sweethearts, until Ella ran from her feelings
Austin went away to find himself and brought home some trauma and a beautiful little girl.
Ella has had to deal with her own grief and working herself to the ground
But a Christmas party fixes everything, doesn’t it
Definitely worth the read :)
This is a closed door, second chance romance with a cute vibe!
Who would have thought a run away dog would create such a sweet little Christmas love story!
Ella and Austin were highschool sweethearts, until Ella ran from her feelings
Austin went away to find himself and brought home some trauma and a beautiful little girl.
Ella has had to deal with her own grief and working herself to the ground
But a Christmas party fixes everything, doesn’t it
Definitely worth the read :)
This is a closed door, second chance romance with a cute vibe!
December 11, 2025
A Merry Little Second Chance is book nine of The Christmas Playlist Series.
Christmas is a time for love and friendship and getting a second chance on things we wanted in life. Ella and Austin meet again years after being apart and the feelings are still there. They both have felt loss in their life and are still struggling with everything. But the holidays bring them together and we see the magic of Christmas with this love filled story. This was a beautiful story filled with love and hope.
Christmas is a time for love and friendship and getting a second chance on things we wanted in life. Ella and Austin meet again years after being apart and the feelings are still there. They both have felt loss in their life and are still struggling with everything. But the holidays bring them together and we see the magic of Christmas with this love filled story. This was a beautiful story filled with love and hope.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Mary Little Second Chance is just what it sounds like a sweet second chance Christmas Novella. As always, J. Laine puts emotional depth into her characters. Even though this is a novella that doesn’t change. I enjoyed how Austin really put the effort in. He proved that he was worthy of a second chance. Ella really just needed a partner to show up and support her.
They both have had a rough go of it deserve find happiness with each other.
If you’re looking for a quick heartfelt Christmas, Novella, this one’s for you.
PS thank you J. Laine for not destroying me emotionally 🤣 😘
They both have had a rough go of it deserve find happiness with each other.
If you’re looking for a quick heartfelt Christmas, Novella, this one’s for you.
PS thank you J. Laine for not destroying me emotionally 🤣 😘
November 25, 2025
omg what a great novella. this christmas story was so adorable with noel and holly being the real stars of the show. elle and austin were so so perfect and their story broke my heart and then tied it all back together. make sure you have some tissues ready bc these two have faced some things and came out such amazing people on the other side. thank you for the early copy and i definitely recommend reading!!
December 18, 2025
Oh my goodness—this novella shines with exactly the kind of small-town magic and heart-tugging nostalgia that makes second-chance romances so irresistible! A Merry Little Second Chance is tender, hopeful, and absolutely packed with the kind of emotions that make you want to curl up with a blanket and never leave Evergreen Ridge.
Austin Maxwell is peak book-boyfriend material from the moment he steps back into town. There’s something electric—and achingly bittersweet—about the instant he crosses paths with Ella James again, the woman he never really stopped loving. You can feel every year of distance, every bruise of old heartbreak, and every ounce of quiet longing humming between them. And J. Laine doesn’t rush it; she lets their history settle in, lets the past breathe, and then slowly, beautifully, lets them rebuild trust.
What makes this novella hit even harder is the emotional weight both characters carry. A decade of loss could’ve made their story heavy, but instead it infuses the romance with soul. Austin’s determination is swoon-worthy—he isn’t pushy, he isn’t arrogant; he’s just sure that Ella is his future, and he’s willing to do the work to prove it. That steady devotion is downright heart-melting.
And then—Holly. Sweet, bright, impossibly lovable Holly brings such warmth to the story, lighting up every scene she’s in. Noel, the fluff-ball companion, adds another sprinkle of charm that makes the whole novella feel like a living Hallmark movie—cozy, comforting, and filled with little moments that make you grin.
Evergreen Ridge itself glows with small-town delight, giving the perfect festive backdrop for a romance steeped in healing and hope. Snowy nights, sparkling lights, a hero who never stopped caring, and a heroine learning she deserves happiness again—it all blends together into a gorgeous, festive second-chance love story.
In short: J. Laine absolutely nails the second-chance trope with heart, warmth, and holiday sparkle. If you’re craving a romance that feels like stepping into a snow globe and being wrapped in pure comfort, A Merry Little Second Chance is a must-read. It leaves you glowing from the inside out.
Austin Maxwell is peak book-boyfriend material from the moment he steps back into town. There’s something electric—and achingly bittersweet—about the instant he crosses paths with Ella James again, the woman he never really stopped loving. You can feel every year of distance, every bruise of old heartbreak, and every ounce of quiet longing humming between them. And J. Laine doesn’t rush it; she lets their history settle in, lets the past breathe, and then slowly, beautifully, lets them rebuild trust.
What makes this novella hit even harder is the emotional weight both characters carry. A decade of loss could’ve made their story heavy, but instead it infuses the romance with soul. Austin’s determination is swoon-worthy—he isn’t pushy, he isn’t arrogant; he’s just sure that Ella is his future, and he’s willing to do the work to prove it. That steady devotion is downright heart-melting.
And then—Holly. Sweet, bright, impossibly lovable Holly brings such warmth to the story, lighting up every scene she’s in. Noel, the fluff-ball companion, adds another sprinkle of charm that makes the whole novella feel like a living Hallmark movie—cozy, comforting, and filled with little moments that make you grin.
Evergreen Ridge itself glows with small-town delight, giving the perfect festive backdrop for a romance steeped in healing and hope. Snowy nights, sparkling lights, a hero who never stopped caring, and a heroine learning she deserves happiness again—it all blends together into a gorgeous, festive second-chance love story.
In short: J. Laine absolutely nails the second-chance trope with heart, warmth, and holiday sparkle. If you’re craving a romance that feels like stepping into a snow globe and being wrapped in pure comfort, A Merry Little Second Chance is a must-read. It leaves you glowing from the inside out.
December 5, 2025
A Merry Little Second Chance is such a sweet Christmas novella. Ella and Austin are back together in their small town after a decade apart. During those years, they both dealt with hardships. Now, Austin is back and he’s not letting Ella go. Persevering through their struggles, they learn to lean on each and push aside the past to make way to their future.
This novella is so heartwarming. J Laine is an amazing author and she truly puts her heart into her work!
This novella is so heartwarming. J Laine is an amazing author and she truly puts her heart into her work!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Austin and Ella finally get a second chance when her returns to town with his adopted daughter.
While the romance was sweet, this was an emotional read, delving into very heavy topics, so be prepared…
I adored Holly, she was a sweetheart, and the second chance between ‘Uncle Austy’ and Ella after some very anxious days was sweet.
Thank you to J. Laine and Twisted Chaos for the opportunity to read in advance.
While the romance was sweet, this was an emotional read, delving into very heavy topics, so be prepared…
I adored Holly, she was a sweetheart, and the second chance between ‘Uncle Austy’ and Ella after some very anxious days was sweet.
Thank you to J. Laine and Twisted Chaos for the opportunity to read in advance.
Review of advance copy
I love a good second chance romance and Ella and Austin had that great "it's always been you" romance. It's been almost a decade and both had had loss and heartache but both being back in town made them realize how much they missed each other. Austin is now the guardian of his best friend's little girl Holly and she is the cutest side character. Ella and Austin grow closer and their love never really diminished over the years.
Review of advance copy
Wow! How many emotions can you convey in not even 100 pages??? I’m usually not into second chance romances but this novella I devoured. The main characters carry so much emotional weight, so much grief and seeing the way they finally find back to each other is heartbreaking.
Thank you to the Twisted Chaos PA team and the author for providing me with this earc. All of the opinions listed above are entirely my own.
Thank you to the Twisted Chaos PA team and the author for providing me with this earc. All of the opinions listed above are entirely my own.
December 21, 2025
This is one of the stories that will leave your heart feeling full. Fate is a big part of this story and Ella and Austin end up finding each other after 10yrs apart. She doesn’t believe she deserves it after breaking his heart and they’ve both gone through pain for an entire lifetime that they’ve had to process. I love that Austin so quickly decides that they’re inevitable and starts doing everything he can to show her that he and his adopted daughter are what’s missing in her life.
December 25, 2025
This was my absolute favorite read of the season! Austin and Ella are absolutely perfect and have that once-in-a-lifetime love. They're the "ones that got away". Through all the ups and downs and bumps in the road, they manage to make their way back to each other, and once they do, the sparks are magical.
If you're looking for a quick holiday read, with a second-chance at love, this is the one for you!
If you're looking for a quick holiday read, with a second-chance at love, this is the one for you!
December 27, 2025
A Merry Little Second Chance is a sweet love story with Christmas vibes.
It's a second chance romance about high school sweethearts that got separated but end up reuniting years in the future. I found the story to be little emotional. Austin really works at rebuilding his trust with Ella. The connection they have is strong. They work through grief, trauma, everything to find their way back. This story is heartwarming and full of cozy holiday vibes.
It's a second chance romance about high school sweethearts that got separated but end up reuniting years in the future. I found the story to be little emotional. Austin really works at rebuilding his trust with Ella. The connection they have is strong. They work through grief, trauma, everything to find their way back. This story is heartwarming and full of cozy holiday vibes.
Review of advance copy
such a cute little story! i love the mental health awareness, it truly truly gets me in my feelings and i love to see it talked about in such a respectful and realistic way.
even though i knew it was a novella, i was so sad for the end to happen so quickly. i hope to see more of these characters because i feel so attached to them now LOL.
even though i knew it was a novella, i was so sad for the end to happen so quickly. i hope to see more of these characters because i feel so attached to them now LOL.
December 22, 2025
No second chance needed here. Unless that means I get a longer book featuring Austin and Ella. If that’s the case, yes please. Both suffered and felt loss, and I just wanted to help them through everything. This novella was emotional and intense. And so very good. I cared about the characters and was invested in what would happen to them. I definitely think everyone should give this a read.
December 27, 2025
Merry Little Second Chance was filled with holiday warmth and genuine emotion. Ella and Austin completely stole my heart. Their chemistry was undeniably beautiful
These 2 high school sweethearts were always meant to end up tohether
Their story was emotional, heartfelt and Beautiful all at the same time
These 2 high school sweethearts were always meant to end up tohether
Their story was emotional, heartfelt and Beautiful all at the same time
December 2, 2025
Less than a day to read and I absolutely love Austin and Ella. J always makes her stories relatable in some way and honestly she always draws in her reader. This was one of the best small towns I’ve read this year.
December 3, 2025
Ella and Austin are literally the cutest couple! Add in an adorable little girl and puppy and I'm done for! J. Laine wrote a beautiful second chance story while making you cry and then giving you a tissue to dry your eyes. Don't walk, run to A Merry Little Second Chance!
December 3, 2025
I love this book so much Austin and Ella were made for each other. They both went through a tremendous amount of heartache but they found each other again. Thank you J for writing such an amazing book.
December 18, 2025
Thank you to Twisted Chaos PR and J Laine ♡
A decade of being apart was not going to stop Ella and Austin from finding their way back to each other. Their pull to one another was just too magnetic!
This christmassy novella was so full of little moments that either made me want to tear up or made me want to kick my legs in happiness! Perfect second chance romance for a cozy winter night and a cup of hot chocolate. This story was heartwarming.
I was instantly gripped with cute puppy Noel being the catalyst for Austin and Ellas reunion. Then there was Holly, who was not only absolutely adorable, but her bond with Austin just melted my heart. In fact, all of the side characters were great in this and help frame the past experiences of the Austin and Ella so we could see what life had cruelly dealt for them. Their reconnecting left them both vulnerable to having to confront the past and the reasoning behind their initial break up. But those past issues were no match for their lingering feelings that never went away for either of them.
A decade of being apart was not going to stop Ella and Austin from finding their way back to each other. Their pull to one another was just too magnetic!
This christmassy novella was so full of little moments that either made me want to tear up or made me want to kick my legs in happiness! Perfect second chance romance for a cozy winter night and a cup of hot chocolate. This story was heartwarming.
I was instantly gripped with cute puppy Noel being the catalyst for Austin and Ellas reunion. Then there was Holly, who was not only absolutely adorable, but her bond with Austin just melted my heart. In fact, all of the side characters were great in this and help frame the past experiences of the Austin and Ella so we could see what life had cruelly dealt for them. Their reconnecting left them both vulnerable to having to confront the past and the reasoning behind their initial break up. But those past issues were no match for their lingering feelings that never went away for either of them.
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