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A Novel Chance
When Ivee opens Whimsy & Wonder, a cozy bookstore and café in the quiet little mountain town of Serendipity, she’s determined to build a life that finally feels like hers. No chaos. No drama. Just books, coffee, and the magic that only stories can bring. Romance is definitely not part of the plan—mostly because it has a long history of being messy, inconvenient, and poorly timed.
James Reed has always been the reliable one. A devoted elementary school teacher with deep roots in Serendipity, he thrives on routines, responsibility, and keeping his heart carefully guarded. He knows better than to shake things up. Falling for the bookstore owner down the street—especially one with a talent for disrupting his carefully ordered life—was never supposed to happen.
Unfortunately, avoiding each other becomes impossible when they’re roped into working together to help a group of overly ambitious fifth graders pull off an event that is equal parts chaotic and heartfelt. Between planning meetings that spiral off track, unexpected moments of laughter, and glances that linger a beat too long, attraction has a way of sneaking in where it’s least welcome.
As Ivee and James grow closer, the chemistry between them becomes harder to ignore—and even harder to resist. They’re forced to confront old fears, stubborn walls, and the very real risk that choosing each other might mean rewriting the safe, comfortable lives they’ve built. Because falling in love is one thing, but doing it in a town where everyone is watching, and nothing ever stays quiet for long, is another entirely.
Warm, witty, and deeply heartfelt, A Novel Chance is a slow-burn small-town romance about found community, second chances, and the beautiful possibility that sometimes the right story begins when you finally turn the page.
James Reed has always been the reliable one. A devoted elementary school teacher with deep roots in Serendipity, he thrives on routines, responsibility, and keeping his heart carefully guarded. He knows better than to shake things up. Falling for the bookstore owner down the street—especially one with a talent for disrupting his carefully ordered life—was never supposed to happen.
Unfortunately, avoiding each other becomes impossible when they’re roped into working together to help a group of overly ambitious fifth graders pull off an event that is equal parts chaotic and heartfelt. Between planning meetings that spiral off track, unexpected moments of laughter, and glances that linger a beat too long, attraction has a way of sneaking in where it’s least welcome.
As Ivee and James grow closer, the chemistry between them becomes harder to ignore—and even harder to resist. They’re forced to confront old fears, stubborn walls, and the very real risk that choosing each other might mean rewriting the safe, comfortable lives they’ve built. Because falling in love is one thing, but doing it in a town where everyone is watching, and nothing ever stays quiet for long, is another entirely.
Warm, witty, and deeply heartfelt, A Novel Chance is a slow-burn small-town romance about found community, second chances, and the beautiful possibility that sometimes the right story begins when you finally turn the page.
219 pages, Paperback
Published June 2, 2026
About the author
E.S. Rosalynn
4 books18 followersE.S. Rosalynn writes romance about timing, trust, and the courage it takes to let yourself be seen. Rooted in small-town knowing and lifelong friendship, their novels favor emotional tension, meaningful choices, and love stories that feel earned.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a cute, slow burn. If done right, which this one was, a good slow burn does not leave the reader frustrated or disappointed by how long it takes the characters to get together.
Ivee was afraid to let herself even think that someone would be interested in her, because her mom left when she was little and her dad took it rough and didn’t show her and affection or attention. He was there but absent and Ivee learner real fast that she was alone and not worthy, so moving to Serendipity was the change she needed, even if she couldn’t allow herself to believe James was interested.
James on the other hand was smitten from the start and turned into a blubbering fool who forgot how to talk. He was handsome, charming, and extremely dependable. So much, that he felt the pressure to carry the weight of the town. He felt like he always had to be there for others and often didn’t do enough for himself, until Ivee. He found ways to spend more time with her and even though as a reader we could see there was a relationship building, it was written just right, that you really appreciated the build up.
Some other call outs
I loved the small town Gilmore Girls, Hallmark feel.
The spice was extremely tasteful.
There is a grumpy cat in a bow tie
The Saucy Seniors are hilarious
The Creative Club is awesome
Oh Norman! ❤️
This review is based upon my own thoughts and opinions. Thank you to the author for my ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
Ivee was afraid to let herself even think that someone would be interested in her, because her mom left when she was little and her dad took it rough and didn’t show her and affection or attention. He was there but absent and Ivee learner real fast that she was alone and not worthy, so moving to Serendipity was the change she needed, even if she couldn’t allow herself to believe James was interested.
James on the other hand was smitten from the start and turned into a blubbering fool who forgot how to talk. He was handsome, charming, and extremely dependable. So much, that he felt the pressure to carry the weight of the town. He felt like he always had to be there for others and often didn’t do enough for himself, until Ivee. He found ways to spend more time with her and even though as a reader we could see there was a relationship building, it was written just right, that you really appreciated the build up.
Some other call outs
I loved the small town Gilmore Girls, Hallmark feel.
The spice was extremely tasteful.
There is a grumpy cat in a bow tie
The Saucy Seniors are hilarious
The Creative Club is awesome
Oh Norman! ❤️
This review is based upon my own thoughts and opinions. Thank you to the author for my ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“You chose steady over shiny.”
This was cute and gave me all the feels! Take me to Serendipity because I need all the vintage shops, the sassy little old lady book club, and I'll happily live in a house that constantly needs fixing from the local teacher/handyman. 🔥
It's a perfect close-knit small town and Ivee has a dreamy bookstore/bakery with the best name, Whimsy and Wonder. The above-mentioned teacher and handyman, James, is already pining for her and I just eat that up. Plus, how dare he also have glasses, as if I wasn't fawning over him enough. Both are trying to keep businesses afloat and are nervous about dating. They go at their own pace and I really appreciated how naturally their relationship developed. Their romance had me laughing a lot and also choked up with how beautiful it was during the emotional moments.
For being a shorter read, it's absolutely not lacking in depth.
I also love that this story has so much about books and stories within it — book clubs, comics, creative writing meetings, a book store, and even a convention that I found extra relatable💀. It always fills my heart when it feels like a story is also a little love letter to the reading community.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next piece of Serendipity and more of these characters, especially a certain group of sassy seniors. 😉
Thank you to the authors for an early copy to read and review!
This was cute and gave me all the feels! Take me to Serendipity because I need all the vintage shops, the sassy little old lady book club, and I'll happily live in a house that constantly needs fixing from the local teacher/handyman. 🔥
It's a perfect close-knit small town and Ivee has a dreamy bookstore/bakery with the best name, Whimsy and Wonder. The above-mentioned teacher and handyman, James, is already pining for her and I just eat that up. Plus, how dare he also have glasses, as if I wasn't fawning over him enough. Both are trying to keep businesses afloat and are nervous about dating. They go at their own pace and I really appreciated how naturally their relationship developed. Their romance had me laughing a lot and also choked up with how beautiful it was during the emotional moments.
For being a shorter read, it's absolutely not lacking in depth.
I also love that this story has so much about books and stories within it — book clubs, comics, creative writing meetings, a book store, and even a convention that I found extra relatable💀. It always fills my heart when it feels like a story is also a little love letter to the reading community.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next piece of Serendipity and more of these characters, especially a certain group of sassy seniors. 😉
Thank you to the authors for an early copy to read and review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received this book as an advanced reader copy.
This book has everything: a cute cat, great friends, a loving community, and an adorably relatable MMC. The FMC is a small town book shop/café owner and the MMC is an elementary school ELA teacher by day and handyman by night. The secondary characters are all very likeable in this book (at least the characters we are supposed to like) and there's even a cute cat with a bow tie in the bookstore! The MMC is adorably awkward and caring. I loved watching him become more confident in response to her growing more confident. They really grew together as people within their relationship. My favorite character was definitely Norman! He was such a tiny little sweetheart.
It follows a very slow place, is written in third person limited, has some small OWD (no interest from the MMC- but he is too nice to shut things down), a woman best friend to him (but she's awesome, extroverted, and supportive- not a part of the OWD), and a third act breakup that brings all the feels.
If you have ever watched a 2000s romcom, this book feels exactly like that! Small town romance, meet cute, loveable characters, little shops, characters who care about each other, and watching two people fall in love through actions. I could definitely see this book being written as a screen play and produced as a movie.
This book has everything: a cute cat, great friends, a loving community, and an adorably relatable MMC. The FMC is a small town book shop/café owner and the MMC is an elementary school ELA teacher by day and handyman by night. The secondary characters are all very likeable in this book (at least the characters we are supposed to like) and there's even a cute cat with a bow tie in the bookstore! The MMC is adorably awkward and caring. I loved watching him become more confident in response to her growing more confident. They really grew together as people within their relationship. My favorite character was definitely Norman! He was such a tiny little sweetheart.
It follows a very slow place, is written in third person limited, has some small OWD (no interest from the MMC- but he is too nice to shut things down), a woman best friend to him (but she's awesome, extroverted, and supportive- not a part of the OWD), and a third act breakup that brings all the feels.
If you have ever watched a 2000s romcom, this book feels exactly like that! Small town romance, meet cute, loveable characters, little shops, characters who care about each other, and watching two people fall in love through actions. I could definitely see this book being written as a screen play and produced as a movie.
Review of advance copy
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of the book.
A Novel chance is described as a cozy, small town romance. While it does have those elements, I was expecting something a bit more like a Hallmark movie. I will say the ending at the Mini-Con does feel very Hallmarky. But Chapters 1-6 seemed a bit jumbled in the sense that they didn't flow properly. Things that came up in chapter 6 are things I wished came up in earlier chapters, specifically like Ivee's past, which explains her insecurities and hesitancy towards love. There was banter between Ivee and James, but not until later chapters, so I would have liked to see more banter earlier.
I personally didn't like that we would get the same scene, but from both of their POVs. For me, it felt like I was rereading the same thing. This is a personal preference, but I don't really like modern references in books. A few times, James refers to himself as the Kevin (from the Jonas Brothers) within his brothers. Also, the author uses interrobangs quite often (I would say at least 10 times in the whole book). After a while, the interrobangs tend to lose their effect.
Favorite quote: "Keep choosing him. Keep choosing the chance at something great. Because I promise you, if James Reed really is your person? He’s worth the risk.”
A Novel chance is described as a cozy, small town romance. While it does have those elements, I was expecting something a bit more like a Hallmark movie. I will say the ending at the Mini-Con does feel very Hallmarky. But Chapters 1-6 seemed a bit jumbled in the sense that they didn't flow properly. Things that came up in chapter 6 are things I wished came up in earlier chapters, specifically like Ivee's past, which explains her insecurities and hesitancy towards love. There was banter between Ivee and James, but not until later chapters, so I would have liked to see more banter earlier.
I personally didn't like that we would get the same scene, but from both of their POVs. For me, it felt like I was rereading the same thing. This is a personal preference, but I don't really like modern references in books. A few times, James refers to himself as the Kevin (from the Jonas Brothers) within his brothers. Also, the author uses interrobangs quite often (I would say at least 10 times in the whole book). After a while, the interrobangs tend to lose their effect.
Favorite quote: "Keep choosing him. Keep choosing the chance at something great. Because I promise you, if James Reed really is your person? He’s worth the risk.”
April 18, 2026
This has been my favorite ARC I’ve gotten so far!! I wish I could read this book for the first time again!!! I loved the comedic timing throughout the book! This book had me laughing out loud and kicking my feet so much! I normally am pretty chill when I’m reading and I couldn’t help but react.
Before the first chapter finished I knew I wanted to move to Serendipity, and was immediately upset I couldn’t because it wasn’t real. Then I proceeded to have a vivid dream that night that I actually did live there. I didn’t want to wake up! The description of the town was so captivating that I couldn’t get it out of my head, and that’s just the setting, not even the brilliant writing in the book with the character descriptions, exploring their motivations, desires, and longings. E.S. Rosalynn knows how to write tension and longing so well I got upset when my cat tried to get my attention in the middle of chapter 17.
I connected so much with Ivee’s insecurities that it broke me a few times, in a way only a well written book can.
Seriously, is there a way to read it again a first time?
Before the first chapter finished I knew I wanted to move to Serendipity, and was immediately upset I couldn’t because it wasn’t real. Then I proceeded to have a vivid dream that night that I actually did live there. I didn’t want to wake up! The description of the town was so captivating that I couldn’t get it out of my head, and that’s just the setting, not even the brilliant writing in the book with the character descriptions, exploring their motivations, desires, and longings. E.S. Rosalynn knows how to write tension and longing so well I got upset when my cat tried to get my attention in the middle of chapter 17.
I connected so much with Ivee’s insecurities that it broke me a few times, in a way only a well written book can.
Seriously, is there a way to read it again a first time?
June 4, 2026
“Luck isn’t magic,”he said. “It’s timing finally catching up to your courage.”
James is your local ELA teacher/handyman/Mr. Dependable and he’s also head over heels for the cute new bookstore owner. Ivee is new to town, she has a cat Lucifer, and she’s trying to find her place in this town and have a successful business she doesn’t have time for dating.
I loved the Saucy Seniors and their banter especially how it was equal parts discussing spicy reads and Ivee’s love life. I really like James and Olivia’s relationship it’s nice seeing a guy and girl just be friends without them having a history of dating of being into each other. I loved Norman, sweet adorable Norman and the relationship James had with his students especially those in Creative Club.
This was a cute read I liked reading about the small town and the detail E.S Rosalynn puts into her writing. If you like small towns, slow burns, a good looking handyman, and Comic Con you should check out A Novel Chance. Thank you for letting me receive this as an ARC!
James is your local ELA teacher/handyman/Mr. Dependable and he’s also head over heels for the cute new bookstore owner. Ivee is new to town, she has a cat Lucifer, and she’s trying to find her place in this town and have a successful business she doesn’t have time for dating.
I loved the Saucy Seniors and their banter especially how it was equal parts discussing spicy reads and Ivee’s love life. I really like James and Olivia’s relationship it’s nice seeing a guy and girl just be friends without them having a history of dating of being into each other. I loved Norman, sweet adorable Norman and the relationship James had with his students especially those in Creative Club.
This was a cute read I liked reading about the small town and the detail E.S Rosalynn puts into her writing. If you like small towns, slow burns, a good looking handyman, and Comic Con you should check out A Novel Chance. Thank you for letting me receive this as an ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If I could give this book more than five stars, I totally would. That's just how good it was! A Novel Chance is a soft, cozy book full of sweet romance and wonderful characters. The setting is almost magical and immerses you in the story right away. Ivee and her bookstore is the dream of every book lover, and some of the dialogue is just so relatable it feels like the author is talking about all book readers of the world. And the whole setup matches perfectly with Ivee's soft nature.
As an older daughter, reading about James; his doubts and the pressure of being the dependent one, it felt like all my thoughts were being validated. It just felt like I could relate to him and all that he was going through, which made reading the book all the more amazing. Olivia and her sisterly behaviour, the saucy seniors and their jokes and quips, the children and their antics: it all made the book so wholesome and a wonderful read.
Love the book and can't wait for it's release!
As an older daughter, reading about James; his doubts and the pressure of being the dependent one, it felt like all my thoughts were being validated. It just felt like I could relate to him and all that he was going through, which made reading the book all the more amazing. Olivia and her sisterly behaviour, the saucy seniors and their jokes and quips, the children and their antics: it all made the book so wholesome and a wonderful read.
Love the book and can't wait for it's release!
May 12, 2026
she opened a bookstore café in a mountain town called serendipity.she opened a bookstore café in a mountain town called serendipity. romance was NOT on the menu. ☕📚
ivee: cozy books. good coffee. zero drama. finally building something that feels like hers. 🏔️✨
james: devoted teacher. deep roots. carefully guarded heart. routines. responsibility. safe. 📐
they were doing SO well avoiding each other.
then a group of overachieving fifth graders needed help with an event
and suddenly they're in the same room. a lot. 😬👀
planning meetings that go sideways. 😅
unexpected laughter. 🌟
glances that last a beat too long. 💛
This was a cozy small town romance with a bookstore and a slow burn that sneaks up on you — I loved how the authors' addressed both characters anxiety without it overshadowing their burgeoning relationship. The side characters - Gretchen, Olivia, and even James' dad, had me laughing out loud with the way the butted into their relationship without being overbearing! When you write a story about a bookstore owner AND an ELA teacher, you have a reader for life. I can't wait for book two! Thank you ES Rosalynn for the ARC!!
ivee: cozy books. good coffee. zero drama. finally building something that feels like hers. 🏔️✨
james: devoted teacher. deep roots. carefully guarded heart. routines. responsibility. safe. 📐
they were doing SO well avoiding each other.
then a group of overachieving fifth graders needed help with an event
and suddenly they're in the same room. a lot. 😬👀
planning meetings that go sideways. 😅
unexpected laughter. 🌟
glances that last a beat too long. 💛
This was a cozy small town romance with a bookstore and a slow burn that sneaks up on you — I loved how the authors' addressed both characters anxiety without it overshadowing their burgeoning relationship. The side characters - Gretchen, Olivia, and even James' dad, had me laughing out loud with the way the butted into their relationship without being overbearing! When you write a story about a bookstore owner AND an ELA teacher, you have a reader for life. I can't wait for book two! Thank you ES Rosalynn for the ARC!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was honored to get an Advanced Reader Copy of A Novel Chance. This book got me! Most books have this hallmark little city with this perfect little boy meets girl romance plot. In A Novel Chance this small city is charming but not perfect and the love interests are normal nerdy people who are socially awkward at times, witty, down to earth, put others needs before their own and are constantly second guessing their self worth. Their relationship is slow to start because they can't get out of their own heads and just need that reliable friend to tell them to stop overthinking everything. It was so relatable and each chapter I could see as if it was unfolding in my real life around me. I was laughing out loud and invested in their story all the way through. I had to finish the book in one day! If you're looking for a good read with a hometown charm this is the book for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was honored to receive an ARC of a Novel Chance. This book has all the classic makings of a perfect small-town romance. An idyllic, cozy town with all of the quirky townspeople you would expect (think Gilmore Girls). From the saucy seniors to the mean girls of the PTA to the harsh but protective best friend, you will fall in love with all of the side characters. The main event features James and Ivee, two characters with emotional damage to keep their therapists very busy, but we love them for that. They change and grow together and learn to trust but not without a few mishaps along the way. This book was fresh, fun, cozy, and an all around good time. I devoured it in two days and I can’t wait to get back to Serendipity for book two!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed reading the ARC for this book! I was travelling while reading this and found myself wanting to find time to pick it up and see what was going to happen with this slow burn romance!
I loved the characters and the romance between Ivee and James!
It was giving very fall romance vibes so considering i read this while on the beach I would definitely love to re-read in the fall with a nice cozy blanket and warm drink!
I’m not huge on spice and this was a fairly spice-less book aside from one moment about halfway through.
It was written in a very early 2000’s romantic comedy style which I loved and I loved the references to the Jonas brothers!
If you love a small town, cozy, slow burn romance then this is the book for you!!
I loved the characters and the romance between Ivee and James!
It was giving very fall romance vibes so considering i read this while on the beach I would definitely love to re-read in the fall with a nice cozy blanket and warm drink!
I’m not huge on spice and this was a fairly spice-less book aside from one moment about halfway through.
It was written in a very early 2000’s romantic comedy style which I loved and I loved the references to the Jonas brothers!
If you love a small town, cozy, slow burn romance then this is the book for you!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was given this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This book was great--it is super cozy and I loved the will they or won't they/the slow burn aspect of their romance. I also loved that it wasn't super spicy...there was just one chapter so you could easily skip it if you wanted to. I can't put my finger on why it wasn't a 5 star read for me and was just a 4.5. I don't know if it was some of the predictability or the fact that he was a teacher and it was the end of the school year so not quite an escape for me...but I do highly recommend this amazing book and I can't wait for the next one. The small town vibes are fabulous and I'm very curious to see who becomes the next romantic interest.
Review of advance copy
Thank you to the author for an early ARC copy!
As soon as I saw this cover, I immediately knew I had to read it. It's the perfect cozy book filled with sweet slow burn romance, cats in bowties, a small town and saucy seniors! Also don't forget the romance between a bookstore owner and a teacher? Cue the cuteness.
The writing is perfection and witty and beautiful and I just loved everything about this book. It was such a fun and light hearted read that had me laughing out loud and turning pages as quickly as possible because I could not get enough.
I am SO excited for the next book in the series! Serendipity is the perfect small town and gives all of Stars Hollow vibes which I am obsessed with.
As soon as I saw this cover, I immediately knew I had to read it. It's the perfect cozy book filled with sweet slow burn romance, cats in bowties, a small town and saucy seniors! Also don't forget the romance between a bookstore owner and a teacher? Cue the cuteness.
The writing is perfection and witty and beautiful and I just loved everything about this book. It was such a fun and light hearted read that had me laughing out loud and turning pages as quickly as possible because I could not get enough.
I am SO excited for the next book in the series! Serendipity is the perfect small town and gives all of Stars Hollow vibes which I am obsessed with.
June 2, 2026
A Novel Chance by E.S. Rosalynn is a charming romance that perfectly blended small-town warmth, witty banter, and emotional depth into an engaging read. In this novel, we follow the story of the FMC Ivee, a young woman determined to build a life that finally feels like hers, and the MMC James Reed, a devoted and responsible elementary school teacher. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into a story filled with lovable characters, unexpected opportunities, and the kind of romance that feels both authentic and uplifting. Overall, A Novel Chance is a delightful contemporary romance that celebrates love, courage, and the unexpected paths life can take.
I received an ARC copy from the author herself. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to read and voluntarily review this novel!
I received an ARC copy from the author herself. Thank you so much for giving me a chance to read and voluntarily review this novel!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this cozy small-town romance. Watching the heroine open her bookstore and slowly fall for the local fix-it-all man was sweet and easy to read. Their chemistry was cute, even when things started to unravel once feelings got stronger.
The absolute stars of the book for me were the saucy seniors — they brought so much humor and mischief to the story and completely stole every scene they were in.
While I found parts of the story a little flat emotionally, it was still a charming, lighthearted read that was easy to get lost in. Perfect for when you want something fun, cozy, and low-stress.
The absolute stars of the book for me were the saucy seniors — they brought so much humor and mischief to the story and completely stole every scene they were in.
While I found parts of the story a little flat emotionally, it was still a charming, lighthearted read that was easy to get lost in. Perfect for when you want something fun, cozy, and low-stress.
June 19, 2026
This is like a Hallmark movie with a little spice. I really liked James, but Ivee just annoyed me. James is exhausted from working so much and when he doesn’t show up to a meeting because he fell asleep on his coach, Ivee just gets annoyed. When the comicon is a flop, James wants to take his students to get ice cream and she says “That’s your grand plan?” I find her to be whiny. And then she volunteered him for an event as the special guest, when he mentioned he didn’t want anyone to know he was a writer. And I felt he was justified to be upset. I just liked James so much more than Ivee.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book. I haven’t read any of the other authors’ other books, but I will have to after reading this one.
I truly enjoyed the small town, Hallmark rom com movie feel of this book. The characters were extremely likable, especially the Saucy Seniors book club. The two main characters were definitely relatable, though I wish both of them had gotten over their insecurities a little earlier.
The slow burn romance was a tad too slow for me, but I enjoyed the wholesome, minimal spice in the book.
Thank you for sharing this sweet romance!
I truly enjoyed the small town, Hallmark rom com movie feel of this book. The characters were extremely likable, especially the Saucy Seniors book club. The two main characters were definitely relatable, though I wish both of them had gotten over their insecurities a little earlier.
The slow burn romance was a tad too slow for me, but I enjoyed the wholesome, minimal spice in the book.
Thank you for sharing this sweet romance!
June 2, 2026
not for me…
When they said slow burn they mean sllllooooooooooowww burn… like a turtle learning to walk slow.. even a snail moves faster than this. Over 50% of the book before they even go on a first date nevermind kiss!!!!
Also it’s in 3rd person pov 😑 definitely not my cup of tea. That and adding how slow the burn was I felt the like less than 300 page book was 500+ but I pushed through. And it’s not that I don’t like slow burn or contemporary romance just this one felt like it dragged on.
When they said slow burn they mean sllllooooooooooowww burn… like a turtle learning to walk slow.. even a snail moves faster than this. Over 50% of the book before they even go on a first date nevermind kiss!!!!
Also it’s in 3rd person pov 😑 definitely not my cup of tea. That and adding how slow the burn was I felt the like less than 300 page book was 500+ but I pushed through. And it’s not that I don’t like slow burn or contemporary romance just this one felt like it dragged on.
Review of advance copy
First I want to say this is not my usual genre of books. That being said, from the moment I met Ivee and walked into the bookstore I fell in love.
These ladies created a world that gives a warm welcoming atmosphere, it makes you want to grab a cup of coffee or tea just to feel like you’re part of this world.
I can’t wait to see more of the saucy seniors! Those ladies are some spunky grandmas.
Overall, this book is fun, warm and you’ll fall in love with the town Serendipity and its people.
These ladies created a world that gives a warm welcoming atmosphere, it makes you want to grab a cup of coffee or tea just to feel like you’re part of this world.
I can’t wait to see more of the saucy seniors! Those ladies are some spunky grandmas.
Overall, this book is fun, warm and you’ll fall in love with the town Serendipity and its people.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an absolutely lovely book. A romance between a bookstore owner and a teacher? I wish I could spend time with Ivee and James in real life! And the cast of side characters is 💯. The writing is beautiful, and it runs deep while still maintaining lightness and fun, thanks to the antics of those Saucy Seniors and the most energetic creative middle schoolers. A Novel Chance is the perfect book to curl up with at the end of a long day.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Are you a sucker for a slow burn? A "will they, won't they"? A story about strangers becoming friends, becoming..more..? Then this is the perfect read for you! Not to mention all the other characters who add additional humor, flare, and their opinions on a budding romance in their small town. All in all, this was an easy, fun read that had me laughing out loud, swiping the pages with enthusiasm, and ready for more!!
April 21, 2026
I was honored to receive an early copy of this book and was so excited to read it! It has everything you need for a wonderful read; small town, slow burn and some saucy seniors that really stole the show. Serendipity is the perfect little town that creates such a welcoming vibe that left me wanting to move there. This book was such an easy read that left me smiling and feeling warm and fuzzy after I finished it. I can’t wait for the next two books!
April 27, 2026
This is a honest ARC review. In the description of the book it does say that it’s a slow burn. I like slow burns but this one was a bit too slow for me. That’s just my personal preference though. I actually give this book 3.5 stars. The story was so sweet and there was so much banter. It did not have a crazy amount of spice or cursing so that was kind of a breath of fresh air. I will definitely be reading the next book in this series. Thank you to the author, E. S. Rosalynn, for the ARC.
June 18, 2026
Ivee and James are the epitome of sweet slow burn romance. James took a liking to Ivee right away and went all in and trying help her and make her feel welcome. She noticed him right away but refused to let him in at first which gives the story time to develop. They become the sweet couple that everyone in town is rooting for. It's a terrific small town slow burn romance and hit all the marks for me.
July 1, 2026
If you’re looking for a cozy, feel good romance, this one is such a sweet read. I loved the small town charm, the bookstore and cafe setting, and the slow burn romance that unfolds naturally. The characters were easy to root for, and the story perfectly balances humor, heart, and community. It left me smiling and reminded me that sometimes the best chapters in life begin when you least expect them. A perfect comfort read for romance lovers! Don’t snooze on this cute romance!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so excited for my first ARC read to be this book and it did not disappoint. it was cozy. It was sweet. It was funny. It hit all the right spots that a good book should. The main characters made us wait for them to figure things out but it was worth the wait. I can't wait to read the next book from this cute little town.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this book! The characters were so relatable and likable and I loved to watch their relationship progress. Serendipity seems like the perfect small town and gave me Stars Hollow vibes which I loved. This as definitely one I couldn’t put down and I’m excited to see the rest of the books in the series.
June 8, 2026
This is such a cute book! I really enjoyed everything - the small town, the great characters, the grumpy cat. It's well written, solid plot and pacing, good character development.
If you want to read a cozy small town romance with a slow burn and adorable side characters, you'll love A Novel Chance.
If you want to read a cozy small town romance with a slow burn and adorable side characters, you'll love A Novel Chance.
July 9, 2026
Such a feel good story! The small town setting, the bookstore owner and a 5th grade teacher set the stage for a cozy read. And let’s not forget Olivia, the meddling best friend or the group of 4 crazy old ladies that have their book club meetings at Ives’s bookstore, who add comedy and advice to this sweet love story
July 30, 2026
I feel like this book is exactly what I needed. The romance is incredibly sweet, and the small-town bookstore setting is perfect, complete with a cranky cat and a fun older lady book club. E.S. Rosalynn's debut adult romance is so beautifully written, with a cast of characters I'm so excited to come back to in book 2. Please tell me we're getting an Olivia book next!
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