Max Bauer's Second Chance: A Love in Penrose Beach Novel

by Britney M. Mills

A billionaire hiding from his future. A café owner rebuilding her life. One small beach town is about to change everything.

Max Bauer has a decision to agree to the marriage arrangement his father demands or finally choose a future for himself. The last thing he expects is to feel at home in Penrose Beach—or to fall for the guarded café owner who gives him a ride into town after his car breaks down.

Avery Wells didn’t move to the beach looking for love. She came for a fresh start. But somewhere between apartment renovations, town events, and late-night conversations, Max starts feeling less like a temporary visitor…and more like home.

There’s just one Max’s real life is still waiting for him in New York.
And Avery already knows what it feels like to come second to someone else’s plans.

Genres: Romance, Closed Door Romance, Contemporary

314 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 26, 2026

About the author

Britney Mills was born in Utah but parts of her heart lie in Boston, Washington D.C. and Germany. Her love of writing began with the third grade book her teacher assigned her to write and she spent hours hidden behind her mother’s couch writing pages and pages about knights and castles.
Most of her time consists of taking care of her young son and triplets but writing keeps her sane as she travels along on the adventures of characters to come.
When she’s not mothering, writing or reading, she’s probably out playing a sport, going on a hike, or binge watching some kind of murder mystery show. She is a fan of chick flicks and adventure/action stories in books and movies, and can even get her cowboy husband to watch along with her.

Reviews

[Regency_Fan_ Michelle RegencyFanMichelleAndMore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to leave a positive review.

Max Bauer’s Second Chance was such a delightful read! From the very first pages, I was drawn into the charming seaside town of Penrose Beach, and by the end, I honestly didn’t want to leave. Britney M. Mills created a setting that felt so vivid and welcoming that it became a character in its own right.

I absolutely loved Max and Avery. Both characters carried emotional baggage from their pasts, yet their journey toward healing and finding love felt natural and believable. Their relationship developed beautifully, and I found myself rooting for them every step of the way. The sweet, clean romance was filled with heart, humor, and plenty of tender moments.

One of my favorite aspects of the story was the sense of community. The found family elements added so much warmth and depth, making Penrose Beach feel like a place I would love to visit myself. The combination of a billionaire hero, secret identity, small-town charm, and second-chance themes made for a story that kept me turning pages.

There was so much to enjoy in this book. The characters were memorable, the setting was immersive, and the romance left me smiling. If you enjoy sweet romantic comedies with lovable characters and a strong sense of community, I highly recommend picking this one up.

I’m already looking forward to returning to Penrose Beach and can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

[Lemonworld · Rating 1 out of 5]

Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC.

I genuinely wanted to like Max Bauer's Second Chance. The setup has potential. A burned-out billionaire hiding from his family, a small-town coffee shop owner trying to find her footing, a seaside town that needs saving. Clean romance with an arranged-marriage backdrop isn't my usual genre, but I was willing to be charmed.

I wasn't.

I made it to the 50% mark before accepting that the book wasn't going to pull itself together. The issues are systemic. Both protagonists are introduced via info-dumps rather than scenes, and the dual POV that should give us two distinct voices delivers one narrator wearing two name tags. Max and Avery think in identical rhythms, reach for identical vague nouns, and deploy the same strained self-deprecating similes for comic effect.

The book also suffers badly from what I can only call I'll Just Check the Numbers syndrome. A condition afflicting protagonists who are established as business owners, executives, or financially savvy professionals, yet are constitutionally incapable of naming an actual number, problem, or process related to said business. The condition most commonly occurs in Romance and similar genres because readers of these books are there for the beadspreads, not the spreadsheets. The business exists purely as a backdrop and obstacle-generator for the central relationship. Symptoms include:

- referring to financial concerns as "the financials," "the numbers," or "the bills," never with a dollar figure, a specific debt, a missed payment, or a named expense attached

- stating obvious economic truisms as if they were hard-won insight ("a community can live or die by its economy"; "coffee is a popular drink worldwide")

- buying real estate without knowing the address, the condition, or the number of properties involved

- feeling vague but intense emotions ("a surge of pride," "I'm still in awe this is my life") about business milestones that, on inspection, amount to mundane administrative tasks.

I'm afraid, this novel checked all the boxes.

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a sweet and fun beach read, or anytime read, Max and Avery's story is definitely one that fits the bill! I loved watching these two fall in love. Their first meeting sets the stage for it all, and really catches Max's attention when she doesn't know who he is, and just tells him to pay her kindness forward. I loved how much that came into play throughout the whole book. These two characters are just good and kind characters who were so fun to watch and see them interact with not only each other, but with the other characters! Definitely kept my attention hooked!

The secondary characters in the book were well written and added a lot of great layers to the overall storyline. Especially Avery's sister Cora, and Cora's daughter.

Max and Avery are from different worlds but that doesn't mean that they can't fall in love...and do. It was such a sweet and natural relationship that had me grinning over these two. I need more time with them because they were so sweet and when I read stories and characters like that, it just makes me so happy, and has me wanting their story to continue on. Maybe we'll get to see them in other books. *Fingers Crossed* I sure hope so!!!

Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further. No language.

I received a copy from Happily Ever Readers via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Erin Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review 4.5 ⭐️

This was my first @britney book and it certainly won’t be the last. I fell in love with Penrose Beach! Max and Averys story was absolutely adorable and just a charming summer read. I love the way Britney made their relationship feel authentic. The progression in their relationship felt natural and their chemistry was just undeniable. It was so sweet seeing Max pursue Avery in the subtlest of ways. Seeing Avery allow herself to trust again, especially with Max, was really beautifully done. I loved Lila and the humor she brought to the storyline. This story was just an utter delight, like a Hallmark movie in book form. I can’t wait to read other books set at Penrose Beach! 🏝️

[DC · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of advance reader copy received from NetGalley

This book is a perfect summer read. It follows Max a billionaire who runs away to Penrose Beach from New York as his father is forcing him to marry and Avery who moved there to take care of her teenage niece while her sister works in different areas. I loved the easy and cute chemistry between the main leads. They were adorable and really loveable characters. I loved the niece Lila whose humour was really spot on. All the side characters were really loveable too. I loved the ending….it was perfect.

I give my thanks to the author and to NetGalley for giving me this ARC

[Lori Albertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be still my heart. This story is so sweet! Max Bauer’s Second Chance is a heart-warming love story between Max and Avery set in a small beach town. I love everything about it…the characters, the storylines, the family, the love.

Britney M. Mills, thank you for this copy of your beautiful story. I truly enjoyed it.

[Tanvi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet read.

I really liked the writing and the pacing of the book. The way the author has written the characters, the chemistry seemed genuine and not rushed and I love that.

I do wish we had more insight in the characters' lives, as they seemed a little flat, but overall still a good read.

[DayDreamer8912 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rate: 5/5
Genre: Clean Romance
🚨TW: loss of love ones, mentions of controlling parent, mentions about betrayal, mentions about being bullied, parental neglect (because of work to pay up for the debts)

Read it if you like:
☕Dual POV
☕Billionaire MMC
☕ Café Owner FMC
☕ He falls first
☕ Strangers to lovers
☕ Family
☕Closed door
☕Small town romance

Favourite Moments
☕ When they first met.
☕ Moments with her niece Lila, Sarah, Talia and Aiden
☕ Them opening up to each other.
☕ Him giving her ideas to improve her shop.
☕ Him working to make things right. (can’t spoil it)
☕ Games night (can’t spoil it)
☕ Them going Go-Karting
☕ Them helping out with the restaurant.
☕ Him making sure that she has everything that she needed. (can’t spoil it)
(lots more)

Swoony Moments
☕He falls first
☕ He is cares, love and protected her.
☕ He is always there for her and do whatever he can to help her.
☕ He cares for the people in Penrose Beach.
☕ His kindness.

Synopsis:
Max
A billionaire who took his time off from his work and trying to get away from his dad who is controlling and dictating his life. He kept his identity a secret so that people will treat him as who he is and not because of his status.

Avery
A former lawyer and because of circumstances she moved into Penrose Beach and open a small café there while taking care of her sister’s daughter, Lila while her sister goes traveling for work to pay off the medical bills of her sister’s late husband.

They met when his car was out of gas and she helped him and didn’t expect anything in return. Things get interesting when something happened to Chloe and Brock’s B&B which he was staying and he moved into the apartment which happens to the be the top floor of the apartment that she is staying. They got to know each other and he does whatever he can to help her and also the people around Penrose Beach. Will they be together? Will his father let him find his own happiness? Read Max Bauer’s Second Chance to find out!


Review
These two are just so sweet together. He is a billionaire and she is a former lawyer who because of something happened to her life became a cafe owner and also taking care of her niece when her sister is away for work to pay the debt of her sister’s husband’s medical bills.
He kept away his identity so that the people in Penrose Beach would see him for him and not dollar signs and be with him just because he is rich and the kindness that Avery gave him touched his heart and he apply her ‘Pay it forward’ to help the people around Penrose Beach which are preparing for The Season and of course settle the things that he found out that his buildings are not fully furnished and was scammed with his money. He asked around and found a few reliable people and fix the place.

He also helped Avery and got to know her and feeling grew between them. And they spend time together, open up to each other and help each other and the people in Penrose Beach for the event “The Season” coming. Along with her niece, her niece’s friend, Tahlia and Aiden they test through all the activities that had been planned and having the time of their lives. Can’t spoil too much you will have to read to find out.

I don’t like the part where the dad just doesn’t get him and love to dictate his life and force him to marry someone that he doesn’t love. I love that she stood up for him and he also stood up for himself (can’t spoil it). Love that his friend, Aiden put up with his father with all the calls to ask where he is. Aiden is quite a scene stealer. Can’t wait for his happily ever after if Britney is going to write about hehe…

This book made me smile, laugh, swoon and wishing I could join in the activities that they had planned hehe…

I was gifted complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own. Thanks @britneymmillsauthor for the ARC .

This is another story of Penrose Beach and you will see the other characters appeared as guest stars in the story. If you haven’t read them, please do. Here are the titles, Chloe Foster’s Holiday Rewrite (Chloe and Brock) and Eliza Duncan’s Last First Kiss (Eliza and Levi)

You can purchase this book on Amazon and it’s available on KU.

[Cindy Burrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

You are in for a treat! This is the sixth book I have read and reviewed written by Britney M. Mills. In my opinion, it is the best book she has written. I loved the characters, how they met, the mystery that almost imploded, and everything in between.
Our story begins with thirty-two year old Max running away from his life. Max’s grandfather built the company he works for, and he needs to figure out what he wants his life to be before he is trapped with no way out. I cannot imagine being the heir to a successful business. Max doesn’t have any time to enjoy himself, take time off, or just enjoy a little time alone with nothing looming over his head. He knows it is his responsibility to take care of the “Bauer family legacy,” but he will not agree to an arranged marriage. He should be able to choose the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with, who will be a supportive partner, and bring joy and excitement to each other. He knows all too well, that is exactly what Victoria will do. The woman his father insists he is marrying.
His plan is to fly out to Penrose Beach, California. He’s never heard of it or been there and that means his controlling father won’t know about it either.
After landing and renting a car, he’s on his way. Unfortunately, he runs out of gas in the middle of not knowing which way to the nearest gas station.
Avery lives in Penrose Beach and she wears many hats. She drives and picks up people to the local airport; she refers to herself as a “specialty driver.” She arrived during “The Season” and soon learned what it is like after “The Season” is over. She moved to help her sister out with her daughter, Laura. Cora, her sister, is a travel nurse with no set schedule. She may be gone to city for a brief time or a longer time. Avery has recently opened a coffee shop, Honey & Harbor. Now, she is not doing so well, which means she will keep her job of transporting people to and from the airport. Avery and Laura are on their way home after picking Laura up from school. Avery spots a man carrying a gas can walking down the road. Laura has no idea why he is holding up his thumb. (Side note, how can she not know the universal sign for “Can you give me a ride?”) When Avery tells her the guy is hitchhiking, she thinks he must be a killer and to keep going. They learn he is headed to Penrose Beach.
Now, I do not want to reveal too much about this wonderful story. Max ends up living in the same building as them. Max is away under the radar to get away from his meddling father. He is incognito and no one knows who he really is. Will there be a friendship between Max and Avery, or perhaps more? Max is rich and has a controlling father…will he be able to keep under the radar? How does Max figure into Avery’s life? Will he be helpful? There is so much in this book that kept me reading way past time to close the book until the next day. Trust me, when I say, get your copy of Max Bauer’s Second Chance by Britney Mills. You will not be sorry, but be forewarned, do not start this book late at night.

[Wildrose Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Max Bauer’s Second Chance” by Britney M. Mills
📘 Format: Digital Book
📚 Pub Date: 06.26.26
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars

“Max Bauer’s Second Chance” by Britney M. Mills is a charming romantic novel with so much heart.

Avery is an ex-corporate lawyer who leaves her law career behind and moves to a small beach town called Penrose Beach, to support her widowed sister, Cora, and help raise her 15 year-old niece, Lila.

Avery uses this opportunity to reinvent her life and fulfill a lifelong dream of opening a coffee shop in Penrose Beach, which turns out to be more challenging than Avery had imagined.

Since Max is looking for somewhere to escape, he heads across the country to Penrose Beach, a small beach town that Max and a few of his friends have bought buildings in.

Max is running away from an overbearing and controlling family, whose expectations extend beyond his work for the family company into his personal life - to the extreme of trying to force an arranged marriage on him. At 34 years old, after achieving much success at the helm of his family company, Max is finally taking a step back and reconsidering what he wants his life to look like.

Avery and Max are drawn to each other after a chance meeting while Max is driving to Penrose Beach.

As Max and Avery struggle with their attraction, they grow closer by supporting each other and they build a genuine friendship. On a logical level, it isn’t reasonable to be romantically interested in someone who lives on the other side of the country, but on a realistic level, they can’t help that they are drawn to each other and look forward to seeing each other every day.

Max’s intention when he came to town was to only stay a brief time, but he has to consider if he is even willing to go back to New York now, or if he could relocate to Penrose Beach - for his own sake and for a chance at a future with Avery.

Sadly, Max hasn’t been entirely honest with everyone in town about who he is and his connection to the company that owns multiple buildings in town. What will happen when people realize who he truly is, especially Avery?

Is there a future for Avery and Max? Can Max set boundaries with his controlling father?

I loved reading about Avery and Max, and I was cheering for them the entire book!

It was so refreshing to read a clean romance where the main characters connect on a deep friendship level and develop emotional intimacy. I loved the themes of second chances, loyalty and being of service to others.

I had my fingers crossed that this book would turn into a series, and I hoped that I would get to read about Aiden and Talia’s story - and my dreams are coming true! I’m looking forward to reading the second book in the series “Aiden Pearson’s Afraid to Commit”, which is the next book in the “A Love in Penrose Beach Novel” series and expected at the end of June 2027.

Thank you to Britney M. Mills & Happily Ever Readers for the Advance Review Copy. All opinions are my own.

#MaxBauer’sSecondChance
#BritneyMMills
#HappilyEverReaders

[Bev Walkling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Typically, I'm not a huge fan of romance novels where the male protagonist is a billionaire. This novel wisely chose not to focus on that in the title and Max Bauer didn't seem like a typical "billionaire" in either his attitudes or his actions. This book ended up being a great escapist type beach read that really suited what I needed in these days when life sometimes feels pretty bleak. Both of the main characters were really likeable right from the start and behave in a kind and caring way that I wish was more evident in society these days.

Max has worked extremely hard after stepping into his father's shoes to care for his company when he was ill. He has worked long hours and taken almost no time for himself. When his father suddenly demands that he marry a woman he doesn't even like, Max decides to take some time off and out of his father's reach. He chooses to head to Penrose Beach where he owns some property that one of his college friends urged him to invest in to help save the town. He's never been there before and when he runs out of gas a good distance from town, it leads to a fortuitus meeting with Avery and her niece.

When Avery stops to provide help, goes out of her way to help him expecting nothing in return, Max is intrigued. Each time he meets her he is impressed with her kindness to all around her.

Avery is acting as a surrogate mom to her niece while her Mom is off working as a travel nurse to pay off medical debt from her dead husband. There is clearly more to be told about that, which I hope means another book in the series will be on it's way.

Avery has recently opened a new coffee shop, but while her plan was good, her marketing wasn't and though she and her neice have a low rent apartment upstairs, it was poorly built and has all sorts of quirky problems. When Max finds out that he is her absentee landlord, he sets out to make the needed repairs without telling her that he is the owner and to help her with some marketing ideas.

I loved watching their relationship develop and enjoyed the various characters I met along the way. As Max learns about the two seasons of Penrose Beach, he makes himself a strong helper within the community. When his father finally finds out where he is, Max will have to be open with everyone about exactly who he is and decide whether he will fight for those he has learned to love.

This was a sweet, clean romance that I can happily recommend to others for a light, humerous and uplifting read. I look forward to more books in the series. Many thanks to #NetGalley and #HappilyEverReaders for allowing me to read an advance readers copy. All opinions are my own.

[Chad Barrus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a ARC copy from the author and though a review wasn’t required, I wanted to offer my honest, voluntary impression upon finishing it.

I am a fan of Britney Mills! I haven’t read all of her books but I have read a good deal of them and I enjoy the plots, characters, the humanness of those characters and the feeling these stories are real- not contrived!

Max runs a multibillion conglomerate but after working non stop for 8 years feels burned out and decides to leave unannounced when his father tries to force him to marry the daughter of one of his business associates.

He travels incognito to the west coast and meets a woman who is warm, outgoing and caring and lets him be himself without knowing who he really is. It’s easy to fall for her but they are from different backgrounds entirely but even though he is content with that, he knows his controlling father and others won’t be.

When she finds out who he really is by researching two receipts, she is angry that he wasn’t honest with her at the onset even though in his past everyone looks at or stays with him because of the money he has. She hasn’t wanted anything like that from him and he is still trying to understand that in his mind when his father shows up and then tries to bribe her!

Her ex boyfriend had controlled her and sabotaged her promotion and got her fired to get her job so she is leery of people who she sees who can use power and influence over her!

Now Max and Avery have to decide what they have felt is something they want regardless of the pressures and consequences that come with it or to not pursue their association further once his true status has been revealed.

I can see both Max and Avery’s points of view and certainly the optimum answer is he should have been honest with Avery but money does complicate a relationship and a lot of money really muddies the waters so to speak especially based on previous experiences. When the truth comes out as it will, that’s when both need to honestly reevaluate what they have felt and decide if the omission is a deal breaker in their budding relationship.

I really enjoyed this book and wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend you read this wonderful book! I think you’ll fall in love with Penrose Beach and the people who live there!

I definitely know you won’t regret reading this wonderful, uplifting story you will remember long after you finish it!

[the book spell girl, xo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of advance reader copy received from NetGalley

This is my first time reading a book from Britney M. Mills and I loved it so much! So sweet, heart-warming and delightful book.

It is about sweet romance between Avery and Max in small beach town. I must admit I enjoyed it more then I should. It's like I am reminiscing my memories from the fair. Characters are likeable, funny and honestly, I would love to hang out with them... and live in Penrose Beach. 🫠✨

Male protagonist is a billionaire but not like the ones we mostly read about. This one is good, always wanting to help, and oh my, so smart. The part where we see him in a business meeting as CEO is everything, like I need to see more of a Max's work version although "the holiday" version has my heart.

"My grandfather, Opa Vogel, used to tell me leadership wasn't measured by how tightly you held something," I say quietly. "He said it's measured by what happens when you let go long enough to see whether it survives without you."

Please, we need more billionaires like Max. 💘✨

I love how giving second chance is not just for love, but for friends, work opportunities and choosing your own path.

"You can't get experience without the opportunity," I say. "The job's yours if you want it."

"There have been many people in my life who gave me second chances, or opportunities I didn't necessarily deserve. I remember feeling grateful for those. Sometimes people just need someone to trust them to get started."

What I didn't like (and annoyed me a little bit) is how Avery couldn't figure out what she is doing wrong with her coffee shop. This is what Max have noticed: "No subtitle. No "coffee shop". No "open". The windows are tinted, making it hard to see inside. There's nothing that tells people what this place actually is. No wonder business is slow." Like... all of that is basic, something everyone knows, but big thanks to Max for helping her. 🫣😅💞

Anyway, I truly enjoyed the book, I even laughed a few times. Lila is really special and makes a book so much better. I can't wait to come back to Penrose Beach and hang out with my new favorite people. 🤞🏻🥰

"I can still feel her hand in mine, fitting perfectly like a puzzle piece. And for the first time in a long time, I want something that has nothing to do with business, expectations, or the Bauer name. I want her."

[Lindsey Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️

I will always be excited to read anything that Britney Mills writes. Her stories always make me smile, give me the swoony kisses, and create characters that stick with you. Max Bauer’s Second Chance is all this and more. As the title claims, this is a second chance romance for our MMC when he is given an ultimatum regarding his future. The story features two hearts that are searching for something to make them feel complete.

Traveling to a small, coastal town gives Max hope of figuring out his future. He has worked hard to build his very successful company, but lately feels burnt out. He needs to take time to discover what he wants for himself. When he finds the beach town, he loves that no one knows who he is. He is able to meet people organically, be himself, and truly enjoy his time. When he meets our FMC, he realizes he has found what he wants for his future. When she finds out the truth of who he really is, he must decide the lengths he is willing to go to secure the future he wants.

Avery isn’t looking for love. Her last relationship left her broken and made it hard for her to trust people. When she and Max meet, their relationship is easy and light. She really likes this man, but her past experiences keep making her question if he is too good to be true. When she does find out the truth, she is livid at being lied to again. She doesn’t care about the money, but more that he didn’t feel as though he could tell her the truth.

Britney gives us amazing emotion and romance within this story. I loved having both of our MCs POVs, as this gives readers wonderful insight to both characters as they move through the story. I didn’t like Max’s father, but that is the point. While Max has grown and proved his value, his father still has to control and meddle. Britney sets up our MCs to have to break past barriers and fears in order to have a chance at their happily ever after. Reading about them choosing the life they wanted was a real joy.

As always, review any author notes before reading.

What to Expect:
🚲Second Chance Romance
🩷Small Town Romance
🚲Billionaire Romance
🩷Found Family
🚲Fish Out of Water
🩷Closed Door Romance

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet second chance romance. But I believe the second chance is different than what we typically see.

Max has "run away" to Penrose Beach after his father demanded Max propose to a family friend that he absolutely doesn't want to marry. The goal in running away, is to have a breather before he goes back to New York. While Max didn't know exactly how long he'd be gone, he didn't plan on it being a long breather. However, he meets Avery and he is intrigued.

Avery has come back to Penrose Beach after her life kind of took a hit. She is also there to help watch her niece while her sister works out of town. Avery is pretty down to earth and Max isn't used to people not using him for his money. Soon, sparks start to fly and feelings start to happen.

While there is a tiny bit of Max getting a second chance with Avery, the second chance is really the chance to reevaluate his life, reshaping his work/life balance, adjusting his family and friend relationships, and Avery getting a second chance in her business.

One theme that I loved in the book is the need to give others a chance to prove themselves. And how it is important to have a balance between the expectations of others and what we need.

I also loved the growing relationship between Max and Avery. This is a super slow burn, where Max and Avery work though allowing the walls to come down when it's hard or scary.

There are also some great side characters. I'm hoping that we get Aiden, Sarah, and Talia's story.

I received an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Quotes:
"Sometimes how things look on the outside aren't always what they seem."

"Happiness is more important than perfection..."

"Sometimes people just need someone to trust them to get started."

"We don't always get what we want..."

"Life would be some much easier if people came with a warning label."

"I just didn't want a life where you weren't in it."

"You made me feel like I could just be myself."

[Brandi Jackola · Rating 5 out of 5]

Max has been CEO of his family’s company for a while now, and he’s tired. Physically, emotionally, mentally tired. Working eighty to one hundred hours a week would do that to anyone. And this is where I’ll say that I’ve never liked or understood the hustle and grind culture. I feel like it’s better to work to live than to live to work. Anyway, a little while back, he had invested in some buildings in Penrose Beach, and since he doesn’t want an arranged marriage, he disappears to the West Coast with little more than a burner phone and his laptop.

Avery has been a second parent to her niece Lila every since her father died, as her mother (and Avery’s sister) Cora had to recoup a bad investment that she didn’t know her late husband had made, and she’s working as a traveling nurse, filling in at hospitals as needed for as long as she’s needed. Avery’s a former lawyer, and was drummed out of her law firm when her supposed boyfriend asked for her help on something and then doctored it to make it look like she was scamming the firm. Now, she’s operating her own coffee shop. Or, trying to.

Avery and Max meet because Avery has a kind heart, and will help anyone in any way she can. From there, the romance truly begins, even though Max is using his middle name as his surname.

I get why Max doesn’t use his actual last name in Penrose Beach. It’s not because he’s ashamed of anything, but when people find out he’s a billionaire, suddenly everyone wants something from him. So it’s refreshing for him to be treated like just a regular guy.

Avery can’t help but fall, all while not looking to closely at how much she comes to care for him. Max knows he’s in love, but he’ll have to sort some things out before he can really claim the future he wants. With these two, whatever challenge they undertake, they’ll achieve.

I enjoyed this book very much; I appreciated that the secondary characters were memorable and helped move the plot along. So, come for the under-the-radar billionaire, stay for Avery and her quirky niece, and get the book.

[Yvette Jarrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌸ARC Review
Max Bauer’s Second Chance by Britney M. Mills
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5

If you’re looking for a sweet summer romance that feels like a Hallmark movie come to life, Max Bauer’s Second Chance is the perfect escape.

When billionaire businessman Max Bauer flees New York and the pressure of his father’s plans for his future, the last thing he expects is to find himself stranded on the side of the road in charming Penrose Beach. Enter Avery, a kind-hearted coffee shop owner who is busy caring for her teenage niece while building a new life for herself. Their meet-cute is adorable, their chemistry is effortless, and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning.

What I loved most about this story was its heart. Max hides his wealth because he wants people to see him for who he is, not for what he has. Watching him embrace a simpler life, help those around him, and discover what truly matters was both heartwarming and inspiring. Avery is equally easy to love, and together they make such a sweet couple.

The real star of the book might be Penrose Beach itself. From the cozy coffee shop to the welcoming community and ocean-town charm, I wanted to pack my bags and move there immediately. The side characters were wonderful, especially Avery’s niece, Lila, whose humor added so many fun moments to the story.

This is a clean, closed-door romance filled with kindness, laughter, second chances, and a slow-burn love story that leaves you smiling. I stayed up far later than planned because I couldn’t stop turning the pages, and the ending left me completely satisfied.

If you enjoy secret billionaire romances, small-town beach settings, lovable characters, and heartwarming Hallmark-style stories, be sure to add this one to your TBR.

Available June 26, 2026. Thank you to NetGalley and Happily Ever Readers for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[sassygirlreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

MAX BAUER’S SECOND CHANCE is a sweet summer beach read set in a close-knit small town where two people are at crossroads they weren’t expecting but find themselves and love along the way.

I really enjoyed MAX BAUER’S SECOND CHANCE and loved the setting of Penrose Beach. Avery is a new transplant to Penrose Beach and just trying to make it in the new life she has chosen. She is supportive to her sister and niece and everyone else she comes in contact with. Max is hiding from a controlling father and trying to figure out what he is going to do. Max is filthy rich but really has a heart of gold, is down to earth, and just wants to make things better for others. As Max and Avery spend more time together, their feelings start to change. Both are hesitant but their chemistry is undeniable, I felt they balance each other out and I liked seeing their relationship progress naturally. I loved Lila’s take on what was happening between them. Max and Avery are just the best and I look forward to more time in Penrose Beach with book 2.

Tropes: sweet romcom = small beach town = a billionaire in hiding = coffee shop owner = fish out of water = found family = second chance = first in series

My favorite things:
How they meet
Avery’s kind heart
Pay it forward
Sassy Lila
First run festival
Go-kart
Falling asleep on couch
How badly he wants her to text him
Middle of the night baking
The Board meeting
The ending

Favorite quotes:
“I know the fight about who I’ll marry isn’t over, but when Avery is an option, Victoria doesn’t stand a chance.”
“I want Avery.”

Happy reading!

[Leann Arave · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a charming, feel good, sweet read. Max is CEO of a multi million dollar company, he is overworked, over stressed and now being forced into an arranged marriage. That was his breaking point and he basically ran away from home. I loved Max, he seemed like a good guy in the first place, but once he was humbled into the small beach town of Penrose Beach he morphed into the perfect man. Avery had given up her life as a lawyer to help out her sister and niece after they lost their father. She also had a bad break up with a boyfriend/coworker that interfered with her job. So when her sister needed help, It was great timing to change direction and focus on her family. She opened a small coffee shop in Penrose Beach and they were just trying to make ends meet. I loved the cute meet of Avery and her niece Lila picking up a strange hitchhiker. This set everything in motion for an entertaining delightful story. It is a fun and flirty, while being clean and wholesome. There is family drama for both main characters. I thought there was going to be more happen with Cora, Avery‘s sister, but that never manifested. Which was probably good, because I thought the book was a perfect length for a light easy beach read, any more drama would’ve probably pushed it over the edge. But I think Cora’s story would be interesting. I would also like Aiden’s story, so we’ll see what happens. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Maria Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fluffy beach romance where one gets to sit back and enjoy a low angst relationship growing against all odds. My favorite thing about the the story was that while the billionaire comes from a snobbish world where young adults are willing to have an arranged marriage and have the best of everything because money is their world, he doesn't complain about flooded rooms, workmen that basically stole 1000's of dollars instead of doing the job they were paid for, uncomfortable furniture, a rental car that leaves him stranded, and so on... This guy just rolls with the punches. The line for dinner is too long and slow? Go see what is going on and then pitch in to help instead of making demands. The people that were supposed to see to the repairs and improvements on the buildings they purchased don't do their jobs and no one follows up? Just fix it yourself. The best part? Your dad attempts to throw you under the bus? Stand tall and tell the truth.
I also enjoyed some banter and liked the characters in the town. Avery was a little slow on the draw to see what was wrong with her shop. I would think that there would be more obvious things that need to happen if you are going to bring in customers. Good thing Max showed up to help out.
So yeah, this is a sweet, enjoyable read, especially if you don't care about things like seeing the billionaire find the person that stole all that money and sue him for it.

[Angie (mushmysteriesandmore) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am still waiting for my billionaire to sweep me off my feet (sorry my wife) but I do love reading about the women who do get them. Especially when they are as nice as Max Bauer.

Max is running away from the prospect of an arranged marriage and the controlling arm of his father, and he finds himself in Penrose Beach. When his car runs out of gas, he’s rescued by local Avery Wells who runs the local coffee shop. Not wanting the locals to know who he is (he owns many properties in Penrose Beach, including the coffee shop Avery leases), he assumes the identity of a general employee and begins making changes for the better. He hires a local company to start renovating the apartments, including Avery’s, as the last contractor did a bad job. He also helps Avery with marketing as the coffee shop is new and not well known about. Avery finds herself falling for the handsome stranger, even though she knows he’s not staying in Penrose Beach.

Avery was one of the best FMC’s I’ve read for a while. She was real, down to earth and honest. She cared and worried for her family and she was struggling to manage a new business. She didn’t rush headlong into anything with Max, she kept things manageable to keep her heart safe. I loved Max, he was kind and caring, he wasn’t afraid to get his hands dirty and he was trying his best to do the right thing without revealing his real identity.

I really enjoyed this trip to Penrose Beach, I hope I can go back again one day.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. I inhaled it with a gigantic smile on my face.

Max and Avery were very likable characters, which means I had no problem connecting with them and cheering them on. Even though Max is a billionaire, he has personal needs too; those things that money cannot buy. He feels lonely, sometimes sad and quite frankly more than a little burned out with his career and his overbearing family. He needed a break from real life, so to speak.

Avery was a go getter who was not blessed with the finances that Max had at his disposal. However, she is one determined lady. She has no problem working hard to make her coffee shop a success. I admired her tenacity and willingness to work hard and also to help her sister and niece out.

Of all the traits that I liked about Max, I think my favorite was that he cared about others. He realized how blessed he was and did not mind sharing with those less fortunate. He also did not look down at his nose at others like his snobby father.

Avery's niece, Lila, added just the right amount of humor with her worse case scenario viewpoints. Suffice it to say that she has watched too many episodes of Dateline.

This is a perfect beach read. As the author described the beautiful town and beaches of Penrose Beach, I found myself longing to put my toes in the sand and read a good book.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sofia · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.2⭐️

“I just didn’t want a life where you weren’t in it.”

This was such a light, fluffy beach-read, and the found family element was so sweet!!

Avery is an owner of a small coffee shop trying to support her sister and niece, and Max is an exhausted business owner who takes the opportunity to escape his problems by staying at Penrose beach. The romance progresses at a leisurely rate, which really develops their relationship, and shows how their love isn’t instant. And, what appealed to me so much at the beginning of the book was the family unit that the town had. All the characters were so likeable, and the community really reminded me of Stars Hollow in Gilmore Girls (not the beach bit obviously, just the people).

If you are, like me, a lover of cliché endings and predictable plots, you’ll really enjoy this one. The epilogue is also adorable, and makes the ending feel final but not abrupt, which I really appreciated. Whilst I would have loved a bit more depth to each character and more distinct POVs, I did enjoy this book, and I’d really love to see the author do spin-offs with some of the side characters. This is the perfect book if you’re looking for a low-stakes, steady-paced summer read.

Thank you to Netgalley and Happily Ever Readers for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Réka Lengyel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much more than I expected to. From the very beginning, it pulled me in, and before I knew it, I was completely invested in Max and Avery’s story.

The slow burn worked really well for these characters. Their relationship had time to develop naturally, and it made all of their interactions feel more meaningful. If anything, it might have been a little too slow, because so many of the big emotional moments happened in the last part of the book. I would have loved to spend a bit more time with those moments before the story ended.

Both main characters were incredibly easy to like, and I also found myself enjoying the side characters just as much. They made the story feel fuller and added a lot of charm.

One thing I especially appreciated was how Max’s personal journey came together by the end. Watching him grow more confident and face certain challenges head-on was really satisfying. I also thought the ending wrapped things up nicely, even though I was hoping for just a little more when it came to one important conversation between Max and Avery.

Overall, this was a sweet, emotional, and surprisingly enjoyable read that left me with a smile.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Victoria Hubbard · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title is a bit deceptive as, it isn't Max' second chance at love but actually, it is a second chance at living his best life. Max is the CEO of one of the world's largest grocery store chains, working 100-hour weeks and hardly living life, and his father tells him that he is expected to marry the daughter of one of his friends, no questions asked! In an effort to clear his mind of that stress and, as a way to escape from his father's edict, Max decides to hide out in Penrose Beach, where he and his friends have purchased some properties in dire need of restoration. There he meets Avery, who is primary caretaker for her niece, has a side job as a ride-share driver and, as they work to salvage her fledging coffee shop as well as improve the town, love finds them. By the end, I was cheering for Max to not only win Avery's heart but also trounce his dad in front of the board of directors (no spoilers here...)
This is a slow-burn story and the side characters are wonderful. Avery's niece Lila is your typical snarky teenager with a well-meaning heart, trying to show Avery that she's missing all of the signals that Max is falling in love with her. And I can't wait to see if Aiden gets his own story...

[Linette Los · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
I wanted to love this, and I did *like* it but a couple of things dropped it below 4 stars for me.
I liked both main characters and the storyline did keep me engaged. However, a couple of business owners in the book were so shockingly ill-prepared, and made some poor choices, that I just couldn’t believe that they could have legitimately opened their new businesses. I also couldn’t follow the logic of who the FMC’s rent was being paid to??? And that she assumed she should be the one to pay to make her work and living spaces ready? Wouldn’t that be addressed in great detail in any good lease agreements before being signed?
Another thing that brought my rating down is that I found some of the phrasing and sentence structures odd. I had to reread some sentences to figure out exactly what was being said. Yet much of the book was better written. A couple of character interactions seemed to lead nowhere. Why were these interactions necessary to the story? Maybe some of those things will be addressed in the next book.
Overall, this book was just “okay” for me. The last couple of books I read before this one really hit it out of the park, so that might have affected my opinion in this one. I was engaged enough that I will read more books in this series.

[Randi Sampson · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're looking for a summer read that feels just like stepping into a beachy Hallmark movie, this one is it! Max is a (secret) billionaire looking for an escape from the pressures of his father, who is trying to force him into an arranged marriage. Avery's starting over in Penrose Beach, helping to care for her teenage niece and run her coffee shop. This book may be called Max Bauer's Second Chance, but Penrose Beach definitely seems to be a place of second chances for BOTH of these characters... and I couldn't help but root for them both. Not only were they both just really likable characters, they also just had a really sweet and easy chemistry between them that I couldn't get enough of. Lila added so much heart and humor to the story... making that initial meet cute all the more fun and memorable. This is the first book in the Love in Penrose Beach series, and I already find myself looking forward to the next trip back to this sweet town!

Max Bauer's Second Chance is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.


**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a cute story! Max Bauer has always been the dutiful son, but when his father insists on something that will be forever life changing, Max decides to leave town and go somewhere that his father won’t find him. A town that his friends and he have property investments, Penrose Beach.

Avery Wells is a compassionate woman who will help wherever and whenever she can. From helping to raise her funny teenage niece, to picking up strangers (Max) in need of assistance, to stepping in and waitressing during at the town’s festival, Avery is one of the most generous people you could meet.

Things I loved about this story:
dual POV
small beach town
secret identity
first run festival
small businesses
coffee shop

I loved the connection that Max and Avery made over her family, her business, and her town. They made the cutest couple and I was so glad they got their HEA. I highly recommend this book for readers of kisses only romance. You’ll love every bit of this story.

I received a copy of this book from the author and Happily Ever Readers Services. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Bibliophile Foodie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great story set in the charming town of Penrose Beach. I loved how Max, tired of his high‑pressure life and his father’s controlling ways, decided to step away and live quietly under the radar. Seeing him try to figure out who he was without the weight of his family legacy was inspiring.

Avery was equally compelling. She’s been through so much, losing her career as a lawyer, raising her niece while her sister works, and trying to keep her coffee shop afloat. Her resilience and kindness stood out, and I admired how she kept moving forward even when life threw challenges her way.

The romance between Max and Avery felt natural and sweet. I liked how they opened up to each other slowly, sharing their struggles and finding comfort in one another. Max hiding his billionaire identity added an interesting layer, but what mattered most was how Avery saw him for who he truly was. Their chemistry was tender and believable.

The community of Penrose Beach, The activities around “The Season” were fun to read about, and the side characters brought so much humour. Avery’s niece was adorable, and Max’s friend Aiden was a scene‑stealer, I’d love to see him get his own story.

[Kelli M. Stowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful take on second chances and fresh starts.

Avery is looking for a fresh start after leaving her legal career, but between opening a new coffee shop, taking care of her niece, and befriending Max, her life is busy. I loved watching her find what she wanted and needed and seeing her learn how to take hold of those things.

As the title says, Max is looking for a second chance away from the bustle of his corporate, billionaire life. He needs to figure out how to be himself without the labels and expectations of his wealth and family name. I enjoyed seeing him find his place in the small, sleepy Penrose Beach where no one knows who he is.

Avery and Max together are a delightful slow burn, each finding themselves and learning to trust each other. They have each others’ backs over and over and help each other in ways they don’t always notice at first, but when they do…AMAZING!

I loved seeing the residents of this small town come out in full force to support each other. It’s such a wonderful found family.

This forced proximity, billionaire in hiding, beach romance is full of meaningful moments, small town antics, and swoony kisses. Penrose Beach has my heart and I can’t wait to go back.