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New Beginnings #1
Second Chances
A year after being dumped on her wedding day, Abby Simon was still left wondering what had gone wrong. It made Adam almost impossible for Abby to get over. Since then, Abby had been on a series of dates that usually ended in disaster, and she was ready to just give up on men entirely.
When Abby unexpectedly runs into an old crush she hasn’t seen in thirteen years, she can’t help but notice he’s hotter than ever. Max wouldn’t give her the time of day back then, but to her total surprise, he seemed very interested in her now.
Just as things are heating up with Max, Adam shows up claiming he still loves Abby and leaving her was the biggest mistake of his life. Adam finally gives Abby answers as to why he left and is asking for another chance.
Abby must now make the biggest decision of her life…which man deserves a second chance?
When Abby unexpectedly runs into an old crush she hasn’t seen in thirteen years, she can’t help but notice he’s hotter than ever. Max wouldn’t give her the time of day back then, but to her total surprise, he seemed very interested in her now.
Just as things are heating up with Max, Adam shows up claiming he still loves Abby and leaving her was the biggest mistake of his life. Adam finally gives Abby answers as to why he left and is asking for another chance.
Abby must now make the biggest decision of her life…which man deserves a second chance?
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 9, 2014
33 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Connie Stephany
6 books25 followersConnie Stephany is a newly published author of a romance novel called Second Chances, which is the first book in The New Beginnings Series. It is a feel-good getaway book, which involves two hot men and the need to choose between the two.
Connie's sister-in-law designed the fabulously pink book cover and her sister helped her edit it. It was very fun making her first book a family affair!
She has been reading novels since a very early age and reads as many novels as time permits.
Connie decided one day to try writing a novel and although the first one took a long time, the second in the series will be much faster coming out!
Connie is a wife of 15 years, mother of 3 children and a mommy to a Chihuahua-minpin mix.
Connie is currently in the technology field but dreams one day of becoming a writer of books people just cannot put down.
Connie's sister-in-law designed the fabulously pink book cover and her sister helped her edit it. It was very fun making her first book a family affair!
She has been reading novels since a very early age and reads as many novels as time permits.
Connie decided one day to try writing a novel and although the first one took a long time, the second in the series will be much faster coming out!
Connie is a wife of 15 years, mother of 3 children and a mommy to a Chihuahua-minpin mix.
Connie is currently in the technology field but dreams one day of becoming a writer of books people just cannot put down.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 6, 2015
3 STARS
This debut was a sweet and touching second chance at love. Abby Simon is a successful bakery owner that was jilted on her wedding day by her fiancé. Adam walked out on her but never told her why. A year later, she's gotten her life back in order but finds it difficult to shed her thoughts over her failed wedding. That's until she bumps into Max James, an old crush from high school. He's as hot as ever and very interested in Abby, but as soon as she thinks it's possible to love again, Adam comes back wanting forgiveness and a second chance. Does the past hold the key to Abby's happiness or does the future with Max?
I liked this, it was a great premise and sounded just like something I'd love. There were a few things that didn't work for me though. This is told in third person pov and while I tend to like that, I found myself getting a little confused by the jump in pov's within the same paragraph. Maybe it's me, but I'm used to a consistent pov until there's a break or chapter change.
While the premise was wonderful, I found the writing repetitious. I was often told the same thing several times. I think that was my biggest issue because it stunted the flow. This of course affected the execution and because this is a debut, I completely understand that. Polish and a flawless finish usually come with time. But that's how I felt.
I liked Abby for the most part, although she was a bit of a doormat with the whole Adam thing. I kept thinking, how would I feel had my husband left me on our wedding day? FURIOUS. LIVID. HURT. CONFUSED. TORN APART. Abby was numb with shock upon learning Adam was walking away, but her subsequent reactions left me underwhelmed. There was some serious opportunity for angst here; a woman left all alone to clean up the mess of being ditched on her wedding day, the infinite number of questions and insecurities that would arise when she questioned, 'WHY?!'
But Abby didn't really go through the expected emotions, or if she had she did it quietly. She was very hurt and torn up inside but I couldn't understand why she was so calm and not angry. And then when Adam finally tells her why he left...she was so relaxed and understanding. I think I was just expecting more of a reaction. Especially considering why he left, I wouldn't have been so forgiving. The fact that she had to think things over, I lost some respect for her by then. But luckily by the end, she grew some balls and did the best thing for her, for everyone really.
Throughout this time, Max was uber-understanding. Was he too understanding? Possibly, but I get it. Still, I expected some heavy resistance or...something. I didn't like Adam at all. His reasons for leaving Abby were serious but completely selfish and self centered. Even when he came back, his expectations were incredibly assuming and ridiculous. I questioned his feelings for Abby, why he even came back and his intentions in general. He was a douche.
Regardless, this was still a sweet and touching book with a great epilogue. I loved the premise and think with some tweaks, this could be a great book. I couldn't put it down and read it straight through, so that says something. This was also clean, sexy time was fade to black. I do like the steam but didn't miss it here. All in all, this was a decent debut with a compelling premise, 3 stars.
**Copy provided by the author for review **
This debut was a sweet and touching second chance at love. Abby Simon is a successful bakery owner that was jilted on her wedding day by her fiancé. Adam walked out on her but never told her why. A year later, she's gotten her life back in order but finds it difficult to shed her thoughts over her failed wedding. That's until she bumps into Max James, an old crush from high school. He's as hot as ever and very interested in Abby, but as soon as she thinks it's possible to love again, Adam comes back wanting forgiveness and a second chance. Does the past hold the key to Abby's happiness or does the future with Max?
I liked this, it was a great premise and sounded just like something I'd love. There were a few things that didn't work for me though. This is told in third person pov and while I tend to like that, I found myself getting a little confused by the jump in pov's within the same paragraph. Maybe it's me, but I'm used to a consistent pov until there's a break or chapter change.
While the premise was wonderful, I found the writing repetitious. I was often told the same thing several times. I think that was my biggest issue because it stunted the flow. This of course affected the execution and because this is a debut, I completely understand that. Polish and a flawless finish usually come with time. But that's how I felt.
I liked Abby for the most part, although she was a bit of a doormat with the whole Adam thing. I kept thinking, how would I feel had my husband left me on our wedding day? FURIOUS. LIVID. HURT. CONFUSED. TORN APART. Abby was numb with shock upon learning Adam was walking away, but her subsequent reactions left me underwhelmed. There was some serious opportunity for angst here; a woman left all alone to clean up the mess of being ditched on her wedding day, the infinite number of questions and insecurities that would arise when she questioned, 'WHY?!'
But Abby didn't really go through the expected emotions, or if she had she did it quietly. She was very hurt and torn up inside but I couldn't understand why she was so calm and not angry. And then when Adam finally tells her why he left...she was so relaxed and understanding. I think I was just expecting more of a reaction. Especially considering why he left, I wouldn't have been so forgiving. The fact that she had to think things over, I lost some respect for her by then. But luckily by the end, she grew some balls and did the best thing for her, for everyone really.
Throughout this time, Max was uber-understanding. Was he too understanding? Possibly, but I get it. Still, I expected some heavy resistance or...something. I didn't like Adam at all. His reasons for leaving Abby were serious but completely selfish and self centered. Even when he came back, his expectations were incredibly assuming and ridiculous. I questioned his feelings for Abby, why he even came back and his intentions in general. He was a douche.
Regardless, this was still a sweet and touching book with a great epilogue. I loved the premise and think with some tweaks, this could be a great book. I couldn't put it down and read it straight through, so that says something. This was also clean, sexy time was fade to black. I do like the steam but didn't miss it here. All in all, this was a decent debut with a compelling premise, 3 stars.
**Copy provided by the author for review **
April 28, 2015
When this book ended I shouted 'noooo!' at the top of my voice, as I was so disappointed it had ended! I had become utterly engrossed in what is a beautifully written piece of fiction. As a writer myself, I was genuinely inspired by the author's writing style and found myself quickly attached to each character and the plot. The author has such a talent for the written word and Second Chances is a fun, easy-going and uplifting story. The baking references added a lovely sense of home and belonging to the story and there were enough plot twists to keep me constantly engaged. I was delighted to see there is potential for a sequel to this book and hope it becomes available soon. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a contemporary novel about life, love, laughter and surviving it all.
September 5, 2016
I was reading this because I needed an easy, light read. It was a little too easy. Abby seemed flat....she (imo) should had stronger reactions to Adam. I will read the next installment in the series though
February 24, 2016
I really enjoyed this and I'm looking forward to book two.
July 9, 2017
Second Chances is a young-love story with relatable, engaging characters. The romantic details found throughout the book (such as popular song and movie titles, and popular places to visit, like Napa Valley), created a nostalgic feeling for me, as I'm sure it will with other readers. The author also took great effort in describing the desserts made by the main character, Abby, at her bakery--nearly to the point that a reader would be able to smell and taste them!
Some of the backstories on the characters were almost overtold (because the author chose to tell them from several different perspectives and they were quite similar). However, when Abby's relationship started heating up with Max, the story came alive, and was tied together with such elegance in the epilogue!
This was an enjoyable read and I would recommend it to anyone who is drawn to sweet romances.
Some of the backstories on the characters were almost overtold (because the author chose to tell them from several different perspectives and they were quite similar). However, when Abby's relationship started heating up with Max, the story came alive, and was tied together with such elegance in the epilogue!
This was an enjoyable read and I would recommend it to anyone who is drawn to sweet romances.
January 13, 2015
Time taken to read - <5 hours
Pages - 163
Publisher - Lulu
Blurb from Goodreads
A year after being dumped on her wedding day, Abby Simon was still left wondering what had gone wrong. It made Adam almost impossible for Abby to get over. Since then, Abby had been on a series of dates that usually ended in disaster, and she was ready to just give up on men entirely.
When Abby unexpectedly runs into an old crush she hasn’t seen in thirteen years, she can’t help but notice he’s hotter than ever. Max wouldn’t give her the time of day back then, but to her total surprise, he seemed very interested in her now.
Just as things are heating up with Max, Adam shows up claiming he still loves Abby and leaving her was the biggest mistake of his life. Adam finally gives Abby answers as to why he left and is asking for another chance.
Abby must now make the biggest decision of her life…which man deserves a second chance?
My Review
Abby Simon is our main character, left one year ago by her fiance Adam, on the day of their wedding she is now getting her life back to normal. She has her own cafe called "Dessert first", proud to call her own and mouth watering desserts made by her own hand. Kept busy with the job, surrounded by good friends and family, things are going well despite being talked into a blind date by well meaning loved ones. The last thing Abby is expecting is a blast from the past and someone who makes her considering dating again. Just as things warm up nicely with Max, her out of reach teen crush, when Adam shows up and may be finally ready to tell Abby what happened to break her heart and cancel the wedding!
It has been a while since I have had a book from a self published author, due to time constraints and education commitments, as well as being burned in the past from it. I picked up this book with trepidation, you never know what to expect with a new author, self published or otherwise. However Mrs Stephanie was lovely from the first contact and I could do with a change so accepted.
It isn't the norm for me to comment on the cover however, I feel I must. Pink loving girlies, you will love the cover, it is screaming pink and has a wee fabby cupcake, one on the front and one on the back cover. The book is chick lit, fluffy and fairly light so the cover is a good representation of this, I believe the author also created it herself which is something to be commented on.
The story itself goes from mostly present time, to back in time to either Abby's younger years or meeting Adam or the wedding morning. The time jumps are done well, clearly signposted and relevant to the chapter you are reading when it goes back. Second Chances is about a woman broken hearted, left with lots of unanswered questions, now one year Abby is moving on and a blast from the past is just what she needs. Typical, just as things are going good and moving on, Adam is back on the scene and Abby may get the answers she has wanted to hear for so long, but how will this impact on her new relationship?
Oooh I always say chick lit is not my genre at all, I would much rather horror, crime, gore and thrillers. However, this is yet another chick lit I have devoured and really enjoyed! For a debut author and self published without a professional editor, Connie Stephany has done really really well with this book. The characters are really easy to get on board with and for the most part, like, although I dislike Adam!
I would definitely read this author again and look forward to her next book in the series, 4/5 for me this time. Thanks so much to the author for introducing me to her work and sending me a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review. This book is available to buy from Amazon or directly from the author.
Pages - 163
Publisher - Lulu
Blurb from Goodreads
A year after being dumped on her wedding day, Abby Simon was still left wondering what had gone wrong. It made Adam almost impossible for Abby to get over. Since then, Abby had been on a series of dates that usually ended in disaster, and she was ready to just give up on men entirely.
When Abby unexpectedly runs into an old crush she hasn’t seen in thirteen years, she can’t help but notice he’s hotter than ever. Max wouldn’t give her the time of day back then, but to her total surprise, he seemed very interested in her now.
Just as things are heating up with Max, Adam shows up claiming he still loves Abby and leaving her was the biggest mistake of his life. Adam finally gives Abby answers as to why he left and is asking for another chance.
Abby must now make the biggest decision of her life…which man deserves a second chance?
My Review
Abby Simon is our main character, left one year ago by her fiance Adam, on the day of their wedding she is now getting her life back to normal. She has her own cafe called "Dessert first", proud to call her own and mouth watering desserts made by her own hand. Kept busy with the job, surrounded by good friends and family, things are going well despite being talked into a blind date by well meaning loved ones. The last thing Abby is expecting is a blast from the past and someone who makes her considering dating again. Just as things warm up nicely with Max, her out of reach teen crush, when Adam shows up and may be finally ready to tell Abby what happened to break her heart and cancel the wedding!
It has been a while since I have had a book from a self published author, due to time constraints and education commitments, as well as being burned in the past from it. I picked up this book with trepidation, you never know what to expect with a new author, self published or otherwise. However Mrs Stephanie was lovely from the first contact and I could do with a change so accepted.
It isn't the norm for me to comment on the cover however, I feel I must. Pink loving girlies, you will love the cover, it is screaming pink and has a wee fabby cupcake, one on the front and one on the back cover. The book is chick lit, fluffy and fairly light so the cover is a good representation of this, I believe the author also created it herself which is something to be commented on.
The story itself goes from mostly present time, to back in time to either Abby's younger years or meeting Adam or the wedding morning. The time jumps are done well, clearly signposted and relevant to the chapter you are reading when it goes back. Second Chances is about a woman broken hearted, left with lots of unanswered questions, now one year Abby is moving on and a blast from the past is just what she needs. Typical, just as things are going good and moving on, Adam is back on the scene and Abby may get the answers she has wanted to hear for so long, but how will this impact on her new relationship?
Oooh I always say chick lit is not my genre at all, I would much rather horror, crime, gore and thrillers. However, this is yet another chick lit I have devoured and really enjoyed! For a debut author and self published without a professional editor, Connie Stephany has done really really well with this book. The characters are really easy to get on board with and for the most part, like, although I dislike Adam!
I would definitely read this author again and look forward to her next book in the series, 4/5 for me this time. Thanks so much to the author for introducing me to her work and sending me a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review. This book is available to buy from Amazon or directly from the author.
June 25, 2015
Yummy, Yummy, Yummy!
Abby (Abigail) Simon is a very human delightful character—she’s spunky and sometimes smart mouthed, kind, thoughtful, a loyal friend, a great cook and the owner of a business she established in the small town of Elk River Minnesota—a pastry shop called “Dessert First.” She also has a wonderful relationship with her parents—but especially her father.
There is nothing shallow about Abby. She is resilient and strong, but she is still reeling from the devastation of having her groom-to-be (Adam Jackson) show up at her door a couple of hours before the wedding ceremony and tell her he couldn’t go through with the wedding. A year later he has never told her why, even though he tried to keep in touch with her after that tragic day, phoning her regularly until she took a stand and told him not to call her again. Kudos to her! She decided to move on…but everyone she dated is a bust because in her heart she still had feelings for him.
Then Max James comes back to town and moves back into his parents’ house next door to her mom and dad. His mother has had a stroke and he has moved home to help them deal with what has happened. Through her teens, Abby had lived with a heart-wrenching crush on this neighbor boy who never even seen her as anything more than the kid from next door. When he left at the age of 18, to go to the University of Texan and study to become an architect, he hadn’t given her a second glance. Now, thirteen years later, he is stunned when he sees her—the scrawny tom-boy that he had known had a crush on him then, as turned into real beauty—and it is Max’s turn to be smitten. But Abby is guarded—she hasn’t forgotten the mean things he and his friends did to her for laughs a way back then. She’s older and wiser now, and while he is too handsome for his own good, and he still makes her heart do crazy things, she’s not falling at his feet. He sets out to build a relationship with her.
And then just when things look promising, Adam Jackson insists that he has to talk to Abby and tell her why he called off the wedding. He insists that he has regretted his decision, and he wants to make a second chance.
I was already smitten by Max, and I wanted her to tell Adam it was too little too late, but Abby still had questions in her heart. And so, she decided to reconsider, and I almost prayed that she would choose Max, but the heart has its own ways.
Connie Stephany has created characters that I could relate too, and the whole book is woven into their everyday lives, and those of the secondary characters are a realistic part of the whole. I love romances that have more depth than “the girl gets the boy, the boy gets the girl” thing from the past and this author has done that in this book.
I bought this book because the title “Second Chances” caught my eye. The theme of a second chance has been running through my mind, and my own work, and I wanted to see what this new author had written. I was not disappointed in the story.
Other reviewers have noted—as do I—that the book could be improved overall with some editing, tightening up in the sentence structure and cutting out unnecessary wording, and at first I had thought to give this book four stars because of that. However when the overall read is satisfying, I think that most readers who have not been involved in the editing process do not even notice these things that pop out at those who do edit…and my heart said 4.5 and I rounded it up to 5 stars because aside from those things that I noticed with a critical eye, I really did enjoy the book.
Congratulation Connie Stephany—I am looking forward to your next book!
Abby (Abigail) Simon is a very human delightful character—she’s spunky and sometimes smart mouthed, kind, thoughtful, a loyal friend, a great cook and the owner of a business she established in the small town of Elk River Minnesota—a pastry shop called “Dessert First.” She also has a wonderful relationship with her parents—but especially her father.
There is nothing shallow about Abby. She is resilient and strong, but she is still reeling from the devastation of having her groom-to-be (Adam Jackson) show up at her door a couple of hours before the wedding ceremony and tell her he couldn’t go through with the wedding. A year later he has never told her why, even though he tried to keep in touch with her after that tragic day, phoning her regularly until she took a stand and told him not to call her again. Kudos to her! She decided to move on…but everyone she dated is a bust because in her heart she still had feelings for him.
Then Max James comes back to town and moves back into his parents’ house next door to her mom and dad. His mother has had a stroke and he has moved home to help them deal with what has happened. Through her teens, Abby had lived with a heart-wrenching crush on this neighbor boy who never even seen her as anything more than the kid from next door. When he left at the age of 18, to go to the University of Texan and study to become an architect, he hadn’t given her a second glance. Now, thirteen years later, he is stunned when he sees her—the scrawny tom-boy that he had known had a crush on him then, as turned into real beauty—and it is Max’s turn to be smitten. But Abby is guarded—she hasn’t forgotten the mean things he and his friends did to her for laughs a way back then. She’s older and wiser now, and while he is too handsome for his own good, and he still makes her heart do crazy things, she’s not falling at his feet. He sets out to build a relationship with her.
And then just when things look promising, Adam Jackson insists that he has to talk to Abby and tell her why he called off the wedding. He insists that he has regretted his decision, and he wants to make a second chance.
I was already smitten by Max, and I wanted her to tell Adam it was too little too late, but Abby still had questions in her heart. And so, she decided to reconsider, and I almost prayed that she would choose Max, but the heart has its own ways.
Connie Stephany has created characters that I could relate too, and the whole book is woven into their everyday lives, and those of the secondary characters are a realistic part of the whole. I love romances that have more depth than “the girl gets the boy, the boy gets the girl” thing from the past and this author has done that in this book.
I bought this book because the title “Second Chances” caught my eye. The theme of a second chance has been running through my mind, and my own work, and I wanted to see what this new author had written. I was not disappointed in the story.
Other reviewers have noted—as do I—that the book could be improved overall with some editing, tightening up in the sentence structure and cutting out unnecessary wording, and at first I had thought to give this book four stars because of that. However when the overall read is satisfying, I think that most readers who have not been involved in the editing process do not even notice these things that pop out at those who do edit…and my heart said 4.5 and I rounded it up to 5 stars because aside from those things that I noticed with a critical eye, I really did enjoy the book.
Congratulation Connie Stephany—I am looking forward to your next book!
April 17, 2015
This is a sumptuous book. On the surface it appears to be a wholesome, heart-warming romance, but in fact it's a dissection of relationships and what motivates people to do what they do. Weaved amongst the pages, there are characters who enjoy subjugating others for pleasure - using their weakness to dominate and deceive. And in balance, there are other characters who show compassion, genuine care and interest for another's life and wellbeing. These secondary characters create a maze of emotions for the main characters to navigate through. Connie's gentle but captivating writing style takes you on that journey and you live those experiences, the hurt, the joy and of course, the hope of there being a chance to find love again. The central character Abby is a truly delightful woman who is jilted at her wedding by her fiancé Adam. Throughout the book, the reader, like Abby is waiting for the reason why. This immediately invests the reader to feel Abby's pain but also delivers a heightened sense of intrigue. What would really make someone say they can't marry their beloved on their big day? As a writer myself, all kinds of scenarios manifested in my mind, and this only drew me further into the story. It must be said, I'm not a chick lit kind of girl, and my usual diet is that of hard core thrillers that hold nothing back, however Second Chances enthralled me and I loved reading it. I can't pretend that at times I wanted Abby to explode and give certain characters a good thrashing or at least a vicious whipping with her tongue! Although, I understand that it wouldn't have been in her character at all, it would however have delivered just 'Desserts' to people who mistreated her. Abby as a woman, has a bit of 'super' attached to her; she makes great desserts from the crack of dawn, is a successful business woman, looks ravishingly edible herself (even with no make up!), spends time with elderly friends, organises her best friend's party & wedding and is a great track driver (with virtually no training!). Is it any wonder men are fighting over her? And yet, all of this doesn't come over as heavy or unbelievable. It all seems natural, and therein lies the skill of Connie's writing. The character of Max, I didn't warm to at first, as I was seeing him through a lens Connie wanted me to see through. An interesting device which kept me hooked, and I was pleased to be enlightened to his real disposition when that moment came. The focus on desserts and cakes is a fascinating aside, and enables the storyline to be seamlessly strung through, giving rise to long, lingering looks over the ice cream cakes. Such scenes also made me feel quite hungry whilst reading! Overall, Second Chances is a superb read by a talented author with much more to entice and attract than your average cupcake chick lit. Highly recommended.
May 1, 2015
Ms. Stephany's break-out novel is quite charming - another reviewer said it was a warm and cozy read, and I would agree.
We meet Abby Simon on her wedding day, with a devoted fiancé and the perfect life awaiting her, until it doesn't. Without explanation her fiancé, Adam, leaves her. As we learn over the course of the book, Abby is a kind, warm, loving woman who has much to offer, and it is these traits that are put to the test when Adam suddenly reappears, just as Abby is falling for someone else.
There is a sweetness to the story that delightful but not saccharin. Abby is not overly complex, nor are the men in her life, vying for her affection. Perhaps that is what is most charming; Abby, Max and Adam could all be real people, people we'd have a beer with, console with, laugh with, and ultimately cheer for.
A fabulous first book for Ms. Stephany. I believe we all need to keep an eye on this new author. She's got a second book in the works, and I'll be sure to read it.
We meet Abby Simon on her wedding day, with a devoted fiancé and the perfect life awaiting her, until it doesn't. Without explanation her fiancé, Adam, leaves her. As we learn over the course of the book, Abby is a kind, warm, loving woman who has much to offer, and it is these traits that are put to the test when Adam suddenly reappears, just as Abby is falling for someone else.
There is a sweetness to the story that delightful but not saccharin. Abby is not overly complex, nor are the men in her life, vying for her affection. Perhaps that is what is most charming; Abby, Max and Adam could all be real people, people we'd have a beer with, console with, laugh with, and ultimately cheer for.
A fabulous first book for Ms. Stephany. I believe we all need to keep an eye on this new author. She's got a second book in the works, and I'll be sure to read it.
March 9, 2015
Abby is left at the altar, and left heart broken. One year later she is still working through the pain when she is reacquainted with Max, her teenage crush. It is fun to see their chemistry grow and watch Abby resolve her current situations. I felt like the bakery was home and the characters were in a nice cozy setting.
Ms. Stephany manages to move the characters through everyday settings and bring us around the everyday lives of her characters. Abby is a good heroine and fun to "hang out". I look forward to more of Ms. Stephany's books.
My one suggestion would be for Ms. Stephany to keep her point of view with one or two people, and allow us readers to enjoy the experience of each character a little longer. At times I felt like I was just enjoying a characters POV and then someone else was thinking.
All in all I would recommend Second Chances.
Ms. Stephany manages to move the characters through everyday settings and bring us around the everyday lives of her characters. Abby is a good heroine and fun to "hang out". I look forward to more of Ms. Stephany's books.
My one suggestion would be for Ms. Stephany to keep her point of view with one or two people, and allow us readers to enjoy the experience of each character a little longer. At times I felt like I was just enjoying a characters POV and then someone else was thinking.
All in all I would recommend Second Chances.
March 24, 2015
A year after Abby is left standing alone on her wedding day, her life has fallen into a comfortable routine with a successful business. Her heart takes a giant leap from the pain of her past when she runs into Max, her childhood crush, and their chemistry is undeniable. As their relationship grows into something Abby has always dreamed of, history makes an appearance and forces her to make a choice for her future. Will Adam's long awaited explanation of his decision to walk away be enough to rekindle the love they once had? Or are her feelings for Max what she needs to finally move on.
Ms. Stephany has written heartfelt story with characters she has taken great care in writing. Second chances is relatable with a real story aimed directly at our hearts. Local fans will love the setting in our great small town. Anticipation for Stephany's follow up novel, A New Beginning, is a given.
Ms. Stephany has written heartfelt story with characters she has taken great care in writing. Second chances is relatable with a real story aimed directly at our hearts. Local fans will love the setting in our great small town. Anticipation for Stephany's follow up novel, A New Beginning, is a given.
January 16, 2015
Debut author steps out with a fabulous romance novel about an old neighbor/heartthrob being found again, with a twist of course.Great development of characters that you love right away(and a couple that you don't). Love that it's set in MN, being that's where I'm from. Fun to recognize some of the places mentioned in the book. A fun, easy read for romance novel lovers 13 and above. Hints at parts involving romance but doesn't get steamy sexy. Was definitely a book I didn't want to put down because I needed to see what happens next. Hope to see more from this author soon. She does hint at a second book in the series that hopefully will explain one of the character's predicament on his wedding day. Maybe we won't hate him as much after that.
April 11, 2015
3.5 stars. I really liked the concept of this book, jilted bride, childhood crush coming back into her life. At first the characters seemed very lively and realistic. I found myself flipping through the pages,meaning to know what happened with Adam and Abby, why the wedding hadn't taken place. I enjoyed the story and the romance blooming. Although, I think about three quarters of the way through, the book started to feel rushed, the dialogue got stilted and the scenes were not as descriptive as the beginning. I wished the author spent a little more time on developing the romance as she had done in the beginning. I did find the teaser for "Book two" quite interesting though and look forward to it.
March 4, 2015
What a great read! it's a pleasure to discover a new author, and Second Chances will appeal to fans of romance. from the first page, I fell in love with Abby, the main character, and enjoyed reading about her friendship with BFF Colleen and of course her love triangle with Adam and Max. Great plot with a dilemma that keeps you interested throughout. Funny and charming. Highly recommended
March 9, 2015
Second Chances
I am a cupcake-aholic, so the cover drew me in. I'm also a hopeless romantic, so having romance and delicious dessert in the same book was a plus. I'm so glad Abby & Max got their happy ending because Adam was a jerk. My first read from this author, but I'll definitely read the next book.
I am a cupcake-aholic, so the cover drew me in. I'm also a hopeless romantic, so having romance and delicious dessert in the same book was a plus. I'm so glad Abby & Max got their happy ending because Adam was a jerk. My first read from this author, but I'll definitely read the next book.
June 16, 2015
Adam left Abby Simon on their wedding day without an explanation. A year later he comes back begging for forgiviness and for a second chance. Abby has to decide weather she forgives him and gives him a second chance or she stay with Max, her teenage crush. I enjoyed very much this lovely romance. The characters are likeable.
March 26, 2016
Second Chances, by Connie Stephanie, Is a fun, light read. Stephanie created characters with enough depth to make me care about the choices they made---I was afraid her female lead, Abby, would not choose wisely! My only issue with the book is it made me hungry--Abby is a chef and always creates yummy sounding pastries!
January 9, 2015
I really enjoyed Second Chances. Great first book by a new author. I love books that take place in Minnesota. I also like feel good reads that allow me to create a visual of the characters. I am excited that this book is part of a series. Can't wait to read more!
June 1, 2015
I wondered what she was going to do. However, I felt there was no question to her perfect choice. I loved the HEA. It was also a shock and surprise to see there is another story about another character in the book. I can't wait to see what happens.
August 1, 2016
Teenage Journal
I like to think I respect any author who takes the time to put pen to paper and compose a novel. Sadly, this book is simply too juvenile and almost borders on a teenager's diary format. It's high school English class writing. Sorry.
I like to think I respect any author who takes the time to put pen to paper and compose a novel. Sadly, this book is simply too juvenile and almost borders on a teenager's diary format. It's high school English class writing. Sorry.
December 26, 2014
Very well written for a first time author!
April 2, 2015
Loved It
I stayed up all night reading it and couldn't put it down til the last page. Likeable characters, sweet love story and I can't wait for book 2. Highly recommend.
I stayed up all night reading it and couldn't put it down til the last page. Likeable characters, sweet love story and I can't wait for book 2. Highly recommend.
February 6, 2017
I would give this no stars if I could, horrible. You can tell it was not professionally edited as there were a few typos and misspellings. What drove me absolutely crazy was the amount of times the main characters names were used. Use personal pronouns instead! We know who you are referring to! I should have stopped reading but it is rare I don't finish a book once I start it. Don't make the same mistake as me.
May 20, 2017
Good story line, but
IMO this book could have been better written, it was extremely choppy and switched POV's constantly. The story line is great, I just think it could have been something more.
IMO this book could have been better written, it was extremely choppy and switched POV's constantly. The story line is great, I just think it could have been something more.
September 14, 2017
Good for a first effort
Good storyline and believable characters. Too many flashbacks and not edited very well. Good for a first attempt but lots of room for improvement. I would give her next book a chance.
Good storyline and believable characters. Too many flashbacks and not edited very well. Good for a first attempt but lots of room for improvement. I would give her next book a chance.
April 9, 2018
I enjoyed reading a majority of the book but was disappointed in the ending. I think the whole book was a lot of lead up and then the ending was just lackluster. A good book for vacation/beach because you can easily pick it up at any point.
April 25, 2019
4.5
Don’t understand the ratings for this book - it’s a true chicklit. It stuck a cord with the bullying and I liked Abby from the beginning. It’s light and easy to read
Don’t understand the ratings for this book - it’s a true chicklit. It stuck a cord with the bullying and I liked Abby from the beginning. It’s light and easy to read
May 21, 2019
I enjoyed this story. It was easy to read and follow the story line.
August 24, 2015
Since becoming a Book Reviewer about a year I can’t help but notice the number of books I’ve read/review which has caused me to reminisce the years of my youth. Such is the case as I read this book by Connie Stephany.
This time it’s a song called The Second Time Around in the 1960’s sung by none other than Frank Sinatra; and if you read the lyrics to this sung, you’ll see why I made the connection.
Love is lovelier the second time around
Just as wonderful with both feet on the ground
It's that second time you hear your love song sung
Makes you think perhaps that love, like youth, is wasted on the young
Love's more comfortable the second time you fall
Like a friendly home the second time you call
Who can say what brought us to this miracle we've found?
There are those who'll bet love comes but once, and yet
I'm oh, so glad we met the second time around.
While Abby had her first infatuation on a guy named Max thirteen years ago, but the problem is it had only been one way. But with his sudden return, it is now both ways.
As for Adam, the devoted guy she had been slated to marry, he disappeared leaving Abby alone at the altar. Now, just as her relationship with Max is taking off, he decides to return and to once again ask Abby to marry him. And just like the words of the song by Mary MacGregor [Peter, Paul, and Mary], she’s torn between these lovers, feeling like a fool and knows that loving both of them would be breaking all the rules.
If you’ve ever had been in this same situation, having to choose between two guys who you love, then you can relate to one of the toughest decisions Abby will ever have to make in her life.
Ms. Stephany’s writing is one which allows you to experience what the main characters in the book are, which is why I’m giving it 5 STARS.
This time it’s a song called The Second Time Around in the 1960’s sung by none other than Frank Sinatra; and if you read the lyrics to this sung, you’ll see why I made the connection.
Love is lovelier the second time around
Just as wonderful with both feet on the ground
It's that second time you hear your love song sung
Makes you think perhaps that love, like youth, is wasted on the young
Love's more comfortable the second time you fall
Like a friendly home the second time you call
Who can say what brought us to this miracle we've found?
There are those who'll bet love comes but once, and yet
I'm oh, so glad we met the second time around.
While Abby had her first infatuation on a guy named Max thirteen years ago, but the problem is it had only been one way. But with his sudden return, it is now both ways.
As for Adam, the devoted guy she had been slated to marry, he disappeared leaving Abby alone at the altar. Now, just as her relationship with Max is taking off, he decides to return and to once again ask Abby to marry him. And just like the words of the song by Mary MacGregor [Peter, Paul, and Mary], she’s torn between these lovers, feeling like a fool and knows that loving both of them would be breaking all the rules.
If you’ve ever had been in this same situation, having to choose between two guys who you love, then you can relate to one of the toughest decisions Abby will ever have to make in her life.
Ms. Stephany’s writing is one which allows you to experience what the main characters in the book are, which is why I’m giving it 5 STARS.
February 25, 2015
We are introduced to Abby after she has almost recovered from being abandoned by Adam on their wedding day. She is moving on with her life and business, but her love life is stalled. Enter Max, former teenage crush, once unattainable now seems within reach. Could she have her happily ever after with Max? Not if Adam has anything to say about it. He re-enters her life and tries to explain the past so they can have a future together. Who will Abby choose?
A feel-good, quick read romance from a first time author. The characters are well developed and we are easily drawn into their world. The writing is descriptive and thoughtful. The flashback scenes are clearly indicated but point of view (in first person) often switches from one character to another disrupting a smooth flow. But don't let that deter you from picking up this book. It is definitely worth it.
I enjoyed the story and the characters and am looking forward to the next book in the series. This author is just getting started.
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