Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances: Fox Grove Book 2

by Pamela Gauthier

Genres: Second Chance, Firefighters, Forced Proximity

400 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 8, 2026

Reviews

[Jamie]

I was waiting for Kendra and Eli’s story since book 1 and it most certainly didn’t disappoint!

This book is more than just a small town, second chance romance. The love story, group of friends, the journey to healing that these characters go through was so good. I loved everything about this book. While this book touches on difficult subjects Pamela did an amazing job handling it. The glimpses we get from their past relationship made me root for them even more.

Kendra this fmc goes through it but that doesn’t stop her from opening up her heart to love again. There were chapters where you could feel the heartache and pain that she’s been carrying. Pamela packed all the emotions into Worthy of Sunsets & Second Chances. Eli oh daddy’s home 👀👀. The way his life was completely changed in a night and he just rolled with the punches. I adored the found family of the fire house guys and the spouses.

Little Wren along with Kendra and Eli came in and stole everyone’s heart. I can’t wait for more from this world and these characters! Thank you Pamela and Luna Literary for the arc!


Our girl group is solid, life-giving, and filled with so much love.

It would sure as fuck make my life easier if I could just wipe my memory clear of Kendra Powell.


“I have never seen you or Kendra so settled or happy as you’ve been the past few months. You two are soulmates.” “Sometimes it just takes time to work shit out, but you always find your way to each other.”

“The only place I want to run is into your arms, Hulk.” Kendra shakes her head. “I just can’t believe this is my life.”

“It means I am tired of going back and forth. Of you being in this house and me in that house. I want us in one place, all of us. This house.”


Tropes:
🩷 Grief & Loss
🚒 Firefighter MMC
🩷 Surprise baby
🚒 Single dad
🩷 Small town
🚒 Second chance
🩷 Forced proximity
🚒 Dual timeline

[Chelsea Mansell]

What an emotional rollercoaster and a beautiful second chance romance.

I knew that Eli and Kendra’s story was going to put me through it and it absolutely did.

The banter and tension is so good but my gosh, this one is emotional and had me in all my feels that’s for sure.

Pamela’s story telling is beautiful and I just adore the way she literally brought everything to this story and created a beautiful romance with two people finding their way back to one another and creating an amazing life together.

What to expect:
small town
firefighter MMC
found family
single dad
surprise baby
second chance
grief & loss

Thank you so much Pamela for the arc and for allowing me to beta read for you!

[Dawn Cornelius]

Wow. This book had EVERYTHING I needed with laughs, tears and the best HEA!

I absolutely loved the first book of this series, Worthy of Flowers and Forever, and was so excited for Kendra & Eli’s story. I am not disappointed at all!

Kendra and Eli had a whirlwind summer of love post high school, but he ended it without his full truth leaving Kendra heartbroken for years. When she returns to Fox Grove, Eli is everywhere and impossible to escape the buried feelings. For both of them.

Eli’s life is turned upside down when a baby is left at the fire station naming him the father. When he buys a new house for his daughter’s safety, he quickly realizes his neighbor is Kendra - perfection!

These two both harbored secrets and unresolved feelings for years and I loved how they slowly peeled back the layers of each other to get to the root of it all.

Daddy Eli is HOT. Kendra had no chance in denying him…I mean glasses and a backwards hat - COME ON! The chemistry between these two was so good. The slow burn was worth the wait!

Kendra’s relationship with his daughter, Wren, is the best. It is thoughtful, caring and full of love even though she has no true relation to her. Wren is a secret match maker for sure 🥰

I love the found family in this series so much. The fire fighters behind Eli and the girl gang for Kendra. Those moments are friendship were some of my favorites - especially a little bet made at Remington’s bachelor party. IYKYK.

This story has some heavy topics so please read trigger warnings for a clear mental space before reading this one. All topics were handled so well in my opinion even as the tears were flowing.

Thank you Pamela for this ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Wildrose Reader]

“Worthy of Sunsets & Second Chances” by Pamela Gauthier
📘 Format: Digital Book
📚 Pub Date: 09.08.26
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars

“Worthy of Sunsets & Second Chances” by Pamela Gauthier is the second book in the “Fox Grove Series” and an emotional story about second chances and being brave enough to create the life that you want, despite what life throws at you.

Growing up, Kendra would stay with her Grandma in Fox Grove during the summer to escape a stressful homelife due to her Mother’s medical issues. She became great friends with Hannah, the younger sister of Eli, so Kendra and Eli grew up together, also. Kendra and Eli have a secret romantic history from after high school/early College days.

Life hasn’t always been kind to Kendra and Eli, and their life experiences complicated their ability to be there for each other (despite their deep feelings for each other.)

Being in close proximity together again as adults, as they navigate supporting their best friends marry each other, creates a wealth of opportunities for them to decide if they can grow into a relationship together, or if too much has happened or too much time has passed.

I loved reading from dual POV’s to get a real understanding of what each Kendra & Eli were thinking and feeling. This is an open door romance, but there is so much more to the storyline than that.

I enjoyed reading Kendra and Eli’s story, and I would like to go back and read the first book in the “Fox Grove” series, “Worthy of Flowers & Forever”, which is Lainey & Remington’s love story.

Thank you to Pamela Gauthier, Luna Literary & BookFunnel for the Advance Review Copy. All opinions are my own.

#WorthyOfSunsets&SecondChances
#PamelaGauthier
#LunaLiterary

[Sydney B]

“𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥, 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘶𝘮𝘦 𝘮𝘦. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘵𝘴 𝘸𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘪𝘱 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘩𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘤𝘦𝘢𝘯. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭 𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘶𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩.“

4.5/⭐️

Kendra and Eli.. OMG 🥹 MY HEART!! I was so unprepared for the absolute onslaught of emotions I was going to feel for these two. The second chance aspect? The flashbacks? It added so much depth to the story being told as it was. Eli broke my heart. This man deserves so much love and I’m so glad he was able to allow himself to have it. His scenes with Kendra’s dad were a couple of my favorite 🥹

Kendra, this girl. A new favorite FMC 👏🏼 she has been through so much and yet she’s so strong and has such a sunshine personality. Her and Wren.. my heart was exploding 🥹 I couldn’t handle the cuteness. Eli is the perfect dad, and the scenes with all three of them were truly ADORABLE.

There were so many emotions packed into this one, and I devoured it! I had such a good time reading this one, even if I was reading through tears. It was just a beautiful story with real, and raw individuals.

Also seeing Remington and Lainey married made my heart so happy!! I love this group of friends and can’t wait to see what’s next for all of them 🫶🏼

💛 what to expect -
small town
firefighter MMC
found family
single dad
surprise baby
second chance
dual timeline
forced proximity
loathe to love
grief & loss

💛 please check the trigger warnings!

[Katie]

What to Expect:
Surprise Baby
Single Dad
Second Chance
Small Town
Forced Proximity

When I saw that Kendra and Eli's book was next, I knew I was going to be in for an emotional ride. Pamela knows how to write in an emotional punch when it comes to tackling difficult topics. Within the found family is also stories of healing and learning how to overcome with the support of those around you.

This is deeply shown in Kendra's story. As more and more of her history was revealed to us, I found myself grieving alongside her. She had so many painful moments, but she was resilient and fought for herself. This also caused her to be more closed off because of how Eli and her relationship once ended. I wanted to shake Eli a bit because of it. My only issue with the story is that I could see where Kendra's story was going. There were just enough easter eggs that allowed me to put together the pieces on where the story might be going. This is a little of a blessing in disguise for me though so I had time to mentally prepare for what she was able to go through.

Eli had some growing up to do and I really appreciated that we got to see it in this book. When he finds a newborn in the Safe Haven box with a letter saying she is his baby, he steps up in every way. I loved seeing him learn how to be a dad to Wren. I also enjoyed seeing Eli and Kendra find their way back to each other.

I am excited to see where Pamela takes us next! Thank you so much to Pamela for the early copy of Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances!

[Kendra’s Library]

Kendra and Eli had such a bittersweet second chance romance. I absolutely loved the history between them, and the paths they took to get to one another.

While there was a lot of healing in this book, there was also a lot of laughter. I loved seeing Kendra open up to Eli about her past and how protective Eli became of her. It was also fun seeing Eli become an over night single dad, and seeing also how easily Kendra fit into their lives.

This book was the perfect small town feel good romance with just enough emotion to keep you on your toes.

Thank you to Luna Literary for the ARC!!

[Julie Booklover]

A small town, second chance romance, that will take your heart on a roller coaster ride. Kendra and Eli take us on a journey of love and heartache, but it is worth it. The banter and tension plus all the feels, and I did not want to put this book down. Many years of secrets required time and trust to mend the past.

There are some heavy topics, all are handled with grace. Please read the warnings if you need to.

[The Book Ssirren]

This was such a wonderful and heartfelt story. Both Kendra and Eli went through their paces. This was emotional and written so eloquently. The love and the bond that they shared. It was such a sweet read and I just couldn’t put this one down once I got started. I love a great small town romance and this was definitely it.,

[Jenna Lundberg]

🌅❤️ Sometimes the Best Second Chance Is the Love That Never Really Left ❤️🌅
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Stars | 🌶️🌶️ 2 Chili Peppers

What an emotional rollercoaster! Worthy of Sunsets & Second Chances gave me laughs, tears, tension, banter, swoon, and one of the most satisfying second-chance romances. I knew going into Kendra and Eli's story that Pamela Gauthier was probably going to put my heart through it, and she absolutely did. I loved the first book in the Fox Grove series, Worthy of Flowers and Forever, so I was beyond excited to finally get their story, and it was everything I wanted.

Kendra and Eli have a history that goes way beyond simply being the two people in their friend group who constantly push each other's buttons. Kendra spent her summers in Fox Grove with her nana, and that town became a sanctuary for her. Then one summer after high school, Eli became part of that sanctuary too, and the two of them fell hard for each other. Unfortunately, Eli ended things without giving Kendra the whole truth, leaving her heartbroken and carrying those feelings with her for years.

Now Kendra is back in Fox Grove, living in the home her nana left her, surrounded by the people she grew up with and the man she's spent years trying to convince herself she hates.

Except Eli is everywhere.

And apparently neither one of them is nearly as over the other as they would like everyone to believe. 😂

I absolutely loved the way their past was woven into the present. The flashbacks weren't just there to give us cute glimpses of their younger years. They helped us understand exactly how deep their connection was, how much they loved each other, and why the breakup left such a lasting wound. Every argument between them carried so much more weight once you understood what was underneath it. They could keep telling everyone they couldn't stand each other, but I was sitting over here thinking, JUST ADMIT YOU'RE STILL IN LOVE ALREADY! 😂

Kendra really got to me. She has been through so much, and so much of her personality has been shaped by learning how to protect herself. She's strong, independent, and has this sunshine quality that makes it easy to root for her, but those walls around her heart are there for a reason. I loved watching them slowly come down, especially because Eli wasn't simply seeing the version of Kendra she showed everyone else. He saw her. He remembered the girl underneath the walls, and he was determined to know the woman she'd become too.

And then there's Eli. 🥹❤️

This man has been carrying feelings for Kendra for YEARS. Everyone else sees their constant bickering and assumes they just enjoy getting under each other's skin, meanwhile Eli is basically burning a hole through the universe waiting for another chance with this woman. The chemistry between these two was so good, and the slow burn was absolutely worth the wait.

Daddy Eli also deserves his own paragraph because watching him become an unexpected single dad was one of my favorite parts of this book. When a newborn is left at the fire station with a note naming Eli as her father, his entire life changes overnight. He doesn't hesitate to step up for Wren, even while he's trying to figure out how to navigate this completely unexpected role. There is something about watching a man have his entire life turned upside down and then choosing to show up for his child that gets me every single time.

And Kendra with Wren? My heart. 🥹

I loved the relationship that developed between them. Kendra has no biological connection to this little girl, but the care and affection between them feels so natural. Wren also seems determined to play matchmaker whether anyone asked her to or not. 😂 Watching Kendra fit so naturally into Eli and Wren's lives was one of those little pieces of the story that made me want these three to have their happily ever after even more.

There is also so much healing happening throughout this book. Kendra and Eli both have things from their past they need to confront, and I appreciated that neither of them magically becomes fine just because they find their way back to each other. They have to talk, trust each other, and work through years of hurt and misunderstanding. Eli especially has some growing to do, and I loved seeing him actually face the things that have shaped him instead of simply brushing them aside.

The found-family aspect of this series is another huge reason I love Fox Grove. Eli has his firefighter crew, Kendra has her girl gang, and these friendships bring so much warmth and humor to the story. I loved seeing the group together, and there is one particular little bet at Remington's bachelor party that had me smiling because, IYKYK. 😂 Seeing Remington and Lainey married also made my heart so happy after loving their story in the first book.

This book does deal with some heavier topics, so definitely take a look at the trigger warnings and make sure you're in the right headspace before reading. Pamela handled the difficult parts with a lot of care, but there were definitely moments where the tears were flowing. I also appreciated that those heavier pieces weren't used simply for shock value. They are part of Kendra's journey and help explain the woman she has become.

And can we talk about the banter and tension one more time? Because these two were GOOD. There is so much history between them that even the smallest interaction can feel loaded. They're trying to maintain these walls and pretend their feelings don't exist while simultaneously proving with every single conversation that they care far more than either of them wants to admit.

The slow burn, the second chance, the unexpected single dad, the found family, the buried feelings, the healing, the humor, the emotional depth... YES. Sign me up.

Pamela's storytelling is beautiful, and I loved the way she brought all of these pieces together to create a romance that feels both deeply emotional and incredibly hopeful. Kendra and Eli aren't simply falling in love again. They're learning who they are now, confronting the things that kept them apart, and figuring out how to build a future together instead of being defined by their past.

Sometimes second chances hit harder because the love never disappeared in the first place.

It was just waiting for the right time.

And apparently I needed to cry about it. 😂🥹❤️

I absolutely loved Kendra. I absolutely loved Eli. I adored their history, their chemistry, their found family, and watching all those buried feelings finally come to the surface. This was an emotional, heartfelt, beautifully written small-town second-chance romance, and that HEA was worth every single tear.

I loved this book so much that I already ordered my own copy, and I definitely need to go back and read more of Fox Grove. I'm officially invested in this little town and its people. ❤️🌅

Thank you to Pamela Gauthier and Luna Literary for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Tanja Brennan]

✨ ARC REVIEW ✨

Kendra and Eli… these two had my whole heart. I loved them so, so much.

Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances was such a beautiful, emotional second-chance romance. The kind where the history between the characters matters just as much as what is happening in the present, because you need to understand exactly how they loved each other, how they lost each other, and why neither of them ever really moved on.

Kendra and Eli first fell in love during one summer when they were nineteen and twenty-one. What began as something sweet and almost effortless became a relationship that changed both of them, and when it ended, it left behind so much hurt that neither one knew what to do with it.

I absolutely loved the dual timeline. Going back to that summer and watching their younger selves fall in love made everything happening between them in the present hit so much harder. Every sharp comment, every argument, every moment where they acted like they could barely tolerate one another carried years of heartbreak underneath it. They could call it dislike all they wanted. These two had never stopped feeling everything.

Kendra especially broke my heart. Fox Grove and her nana were always home to her, but that summer with Eli became part of that too. Coming back means living in the house her nana left her, being surrounded by their shared friends, and facing the one person she has spent years convincing herself she wants nothing to do with.

She has built some serious walls around herself, and as more of her story unfolded, I understood more and more why they were there. Pamela handled some incredibly painful parts of Kendra’s past with so much emotion. There were moments when I genuinely hurt for her, but I also loved her strength. She has survived so much, and allowing Eli close enough to see the parts of her she normally keeps hidden requires a completely different kind of courage.

And then there is Eli. 😭

So much of Eli’s story comes down to worthiness. His father leaving and the things he experienced growing up have convinced him that there is something fundamentally wrong with him, that maybe walking away and hurting the people you love is simply part of who he is too. He has carried that belief for years, and it affected so many of the choices he made, especially when it came to Kendra.

There were absolutely moments when I wanted to grab him and make him understand what he was doing. 😂 But I also understood where that fear came from, and I loved that Pamela gave him room to actually confront it rather than magically fixing everything because Kendra was back in his life.

Then his entire world changes when he unexpectedly becomes a dad.

Watching Eli step into fatherhood with Wren was one of my favorite parts of this book. He is suddenly responsible for this tiny person when he is still questioning whether he is capable of being the kind of man who stays. Seeing him choose, again and again, to show up for his daughter was incredibly special.

And through all of it, there is Kendra.

Everyone around them sees their bickering and how they constantly push each other’s buttons. What they don’t see is everything underneath it. The summer they shared. The heartbreak. The years of missing each other. The things they never said. The fact that Eli still understands Kendra in ways very few people do.

That was what got me. These weren’t two people falling in love for the second time. It felt more like two people finally dealing with a love that never completely went away.

The emotional healing throughout this story was just as important to me as the romance. There is so much here about family, abandonment, grief, learning to accept love, and realizing that the people who came before you do not get to determine the person you become. There is also such a strong sense of found family surrounding Kendra and Eli. They have people who love them, challenge them, and refuse to let them go through the hard things alone.

I loved Kendra. I loved Eli. I loved their history, their tension, their healing, and watching years of buried feelings finally surface.

Sometimes the best second chances aren’t about falling in love again. They’re about finally believing you deserve the love that was there all along. 🥹🌅

🤎 Second Chance
🤎 Surprise Baby
🤎 Single Dad
🤎 Small Town
🤎 Forced Proximity
🤎 Dual Timeline
🤎 Found Family
🤎 Years of Feelings & History

I loved this book so much that I already preordered my own copy from Pamela, and I WILL be going back to read book one because now I need more of Fox Grove. And book three? I’m ready. 😂

Also, Pamela is truly the sweetest. I may have blown up her DMs while I was reading, and she was so responsive and kind every single time. That made reading this one even more special.

Thank you so much to Pamela Gauthier for the early copy and for trusting me with this beautiful story. I am so, so grateful. 🤎

[Melissa]

What an emotional rollercoaster and a beautiful second-chance romance.

It has taken me a good two weeks to collect my thoughts and somehow pull a review out of my butt for this one. I have not stopped thinking about this book since I first finished it, and apparently one read wasn’t enough because I went back and read it again. I finished my second read last night, and somehow I still don’t feel emotionally prepared to talk about it. So, here we are.

I absolutely loved the first book in the Fox Grove series, Worthy of Flowers and Forever, so I was beyond excited for Kendra and Eli’s story. And let me just say, I was not disappointed. Not even a little.

Kendra and Eli had a whirlwind summer of love after high school, but Eli ended things without ever giving Kendra the whole truth, leaving her heartbroken for years. Now she’s back in Fox Grove, and Eli is suddenly everywhere. Which would be fine if those buried feelings stayed buried. Spoiler: they absolutely do not.

Then Eli’s life gets turned upside down when a baby is left at the fire station with him named as the father. He buys a new house to give his daughter a safe place to grow up, only to discover his new neighbor is Kendra.

I mean… really, Eli? Could the universe make this any more obvious?

These two have spent years carrying secrets, hurt, and unresolved feelings, and I loved watching them slowly peel back all those layers. There’s so much history between them, and the glimpses into their past made me root for them even harder. You need to understand how deeply they loved each other, how they lost each other, and why neither of them ever truly moved on.

And the chemistry? So good. The banter, the tension, the longing… these two had me sitting over here thinking, “Just talk to each other!” while also absolutely loving every second of it.

One of my favorite things about this series is the found family. Eli has his firefighter crew, Kendra has her girl gang, and those friendships bring so much heart to the story. Some of those moments had me laughing, especially a certain little bet at Remington’s bachelor party. IYKYK.

This story also tackles some heavy topics, so definitely check the trigger warnings and go in with the right headspace. Pamela handled the difficult subjects with so much care, and even through the tears, I appreciated how thoughtfully everything was woven into the story.

Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances is so much more than a small-town romance. It’s about love, friendship, healing, forgiveness, found family, and two people finding their way back to each other when they’ve both changed.

Pamela’s storytelling is beautiful, and I absolutely adore the way she brought these characters and this little town to life. She gave Kendra and Eli a love story filled with history, heart, laughter, heartbreak, and enough tension to keep me turning the pages.

This one had me in all my feels, and yes, there were tears. Lots of them.

I loved everything about this book, and the fact that I immediately went back and read it again should probably tell you everything you need to know.

Thank you so much to Pamela Gauthier for the early copy and for trusting me with this beautiful story. I still cannot believe this is my life.

[Shayne]

First of all I want to thank Luna Literary and Pamela Gauthier for the ARC of Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances... 5 STARS! I absolutely loved this book!!!!

Two people acting like they can't stand each other when in reality there's years of hurt, feelings, and history between these two and boy did they deliver a very compelling story

Kendra... Fox Grove and her Nana were her safe place (I love that she had that) but at one point Eli was her safe place especially during that one summer where everything changed. Kendra is now back living in the house her Nana left for her and no matter how much she wants to avoid Eli, she can't. Their lives and friends are intertwined with one another. She's spend a long time building walls around herself while constantly saying she hates him, when really Eli is one of the few people who actually sees Kendra for who she is

ELI! Everybody thinks these two are always going back and forth with each other because they're polar opposites and enjoy pushing each other's buttons when in reality Eli has burn holding and burning a candle for Kendra for YEARS! Swoon :)

Eli becoming a single dad and trying to navigate fatherhood, had my heart just melting because it was sweet and chaotic. There is something about watching a man have his entire life turned on it's head and step up because he knows that's the right thing to do and it gets me every time, those books are undefeated and I will never not read one if I'm being honest

The history between Kendra and Eli is what makes this story so special. The tension and hurt while having feelings being buried for years, can't top that. Every argument felt like there was more to the story and over time you find out why and get to put the pieces of a crazy puzzle together. The dynamic of them trying to say we don't have feelings for each other while also screaming I love you during every interaction was done perfectly and I loved every moment of it

Getting to see Kendra's walls slowly but surely come down because Eli didn't see the version she let everyone else see... HE SAW HER! Eli saw Kendra for who she is supposed to and going to be now and in the future. After everything these two have been through her allowing herself to be vulnerable for/with Eli told you everything you needed to know

Eli... the man that you are. He's been gone for her for YEARS! He is not just interested in Kendra for a little while... Eli has been burning for this woman and him getting the girl in the end was worth it all

Second-chance romances are untouchable, they hit every single time and this one was no different. Throw it a single dad, found family, hidden feelings, tension/banter, and emotional healing... YES! SIGN ME UP! The bickering where it's like I don't like you but I've actually been in love with you for years energy had me hooked from the beginning and rooting for these two as individuals but also as a couple :)

I loved Kendra. I loved Eli. I adored their history. I enjoyed watching all their buried feelings come to the surface and them finally giving into them for real this time at me grinning from ear to ear :)

Sometimes second chances hit harder because the love never disappeared in the first place, it was there along. Sometimes you have to go through struggles to end up exactly where you are supposed to be at the right time and that's exactly what happened with Kendra and Eli

5 STARS EASILY! Kendra and Eli had me smiling, on the edge of my seat, and eventually happy :) At one point I think I said to my laptop... JUST ADMIT YOU ARE IN LOVE WITH ONE ANOTHER (when that moment arrived I cheered)

Again, thank you to Luna Literary and Pamela Gautheir for the ARC of Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances... I loved this book! I cannot wait to see what's next as well as go back and read Book 1 :)

[Kirsty]

OMG KENDRA AND ELI 😭😭😭 Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances absolutely got me!! I am such a sucker for two people who act like they can’t stand each other when really there are YEARS of feelings, hurt and history bubbling underneath and these two delivered ALL OF IT.

Kendra broke my heart. Fox Grove and her nana were always her safe place, but then there was Eli and that one summer that changed everything. Now she’s back living in the home her nana left her and she can’t exactly avoid him because their lives and friends are all tangled together. She has spent YEARS building those walls around herself and convincing herself she hates him, meanwhile this man is apparently one of the only people who actually SEES her. 😭

AND ELI!!! Sir!!! 😭❤️

Everyone thinks Kendra and Eli are constantly arguing because they’re complete opposites and just push each other’s buttons, meanwhile Eli is over there basically like actually I’ve been burning for this woman for YEARS. I was DYING.

Then throw in Eli suddenly becoming a single dad and watching him try to navigate unexpected fatherhood?! My heart could not cope. 🥹 There is something about watching a man have his entire life turned upside down and then STEP UP that gets me every single time.

But it was the history between Kendra and Eli that really had me. The tension!! The hurt!! The feelings they have buried for YEARS!! Every argument felt like there was so much more underneath it. They’re trying to pretend they don’t care while basically screaming I HAVE ALWAYS CARED with every interaction. 😂😭

I loved watching Kendra’s walls slowly start to crumble because Eli wasn’t just seeing the version of herself she showed everyone else. He saw HER. And after everything between them, allowing herself to be vulnerable with him again was huge.

And ELI being completely gone for her?! YES PLEASE. This man wasn’t casually interested. He was BURNING. 🔥

The second chance romance, unexpected single dad, shared friend group, years of hidden feelings, bickering, tension, emotional healing and all that delicious everyone thinks we hate each other but actually I’ve been in love with you forever energy had me absolutely hooked.

And the whole idea of those childhood sandcastles being watery, temporary and unstable compared to the walls Kendra has built around her heart?! 😭😭 Just let me suffer.

I loved Kendra. I loved Eli. I loved their history. I loved watching all those buried feelings finally claw their way back to the surface.

Sometimes second chances hit harder because the love never really disappeared in the first place. 🥹🌅

FIVE HUGE STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kendra and Eli had me smiling, hurting, swooning and wanting to yell JUST ADMIT YOU’RE OBSESSED WITH EACH OTHER ALREADY!!! 😂❤️🌅

Absolutely loved them

[My Used Library]

Second chance romances are quickly becoming one of my favorite tropes to read. There is just something about reconnecting with your first love that gets me every time, and maybe part of that is because I had my own second chance with my first love. I can honestly say I am the happiest woman because of it, so these stories tend to hold a special place in my heart.

Worthy of Sunsets & Second Chances by Pamela Gauthier is the second book in the Fox Grove series, and this was a 4.5 star read for me! It follows Kendra and Eli. When they were younger, they had a secret relationship that ended badly, leaving both of them with plenty of unresolved feelings. Years later, when Kendra’s best friend decides to marry Eli’s best friend, they suddenly find themselves forced back into each other’s lives. Then Eli gets the surprise of his life, resulting in him moving in next door to Kendra. With all that forced proximity, can they really continue pretending they are enemies, or will their true feelings finally come to the surface?

Honestly, I loved this book. It had so many of the tropes I love, including forced proximity, second chance romance, found family, and a secret baby. One of the things that really stood out to me was Kendra’s relationship with Wren. She was there to help Eli navigate being a father, even when it was difficult for her to watch the man she had always loved become a father to a child who wasn’t theirs. I loved the way she put aside her own complicated feelings to be there for Eli and Wren.

The second chance aspect of this story really worked for me. There is something about watching two people who have loved each other for years find their way back to one another that gets me every time, and Kendra and Eli’s history made their journey especially emotional.

Even with all of the wonderful romance tropes, this book also tackles some heavy topics, so please make sure you read the trigger warnings before starting it. Even though I had read them ahead of time, some of the situations still brought up memories for me, and I needed to step away for a few minutes. Please take care of yourself while reading and remember that it is always okay to pause a book if you need to.

Although this is the second book in the Fox Grove series, I do not think you have to read the books in order. Worthy of Sunsets & Second Chances can be read as a standalone, so you can jump into Kendra and Eli’s story without having read the first book.

Thank you to Pamela Gauthier and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read an ARC of Worthy of Sunsets & Second Chances. I cannot wait to continue the Fox Grove series as the books release!

[Susan (Purplegalaxyreads94)]

First, I want to thank Pamela Gauthier and Luna Literary Management for the gifted eARC of Worthy Of Sunsets And Second Chances to read and provide my honest, spoiler free review.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My Thoughts:
It’s here! It’s finally going to be here and out in the world soon for other readers to read! I fell in love with the first book of the Fox Grove series so when this second installment was announced, I just knew I had to dive straight into this one and it did not disappoint!

This second installment follows the lives of Eli and Kendra. Not only do these two have a secret past, they also have some pretty life altering events happen to the both of them that leaves the two of them reeling and trying to find solid ground to stand on. This was such an incredible second chance story that pulled on my heart strings the entire time. Eli, who has only been known for not doing relationships, and Kendra, a girl with a heart of gold yet darkness in her past find each other to be neighbors and let’s just say that it adds so much intrigue to the story.

I loved the flashbacks of the different timelines that show the true glimpses into how Eli and Kendra were growing up. Each flashback brought both happiness and sadness as the more time passes, the more darkness creeps in. Having two characters come together once again and heal in ways that they truly deserve made this story so beautiful to experience. I also really enjoyed the single dad trope in this story..let’s face it, Eli was meant to be a father! The found family between the men at the fire station and all the girls in the group just made everything feel so comforting. This isn’t just romance, this is a story of grief and healing that resonated within my heart and soul with each page.

I can’t wait to see what more this author will bring to the table and to this series. I’ve loved both installments now and hope to read more from this author in the near future.

[Jaycee Chournos]

✨ARC REVIEW ✨

Eli & Kendra

🤍Second Chance
🤍Single Dad/ Surprise Baby
🤍Firefighter MMC
🤍Forced Proximity
🤍Loathe to Love
🤍Small Town

Oh my stars. I LOVED this story! 😍 it made me feel all sorts of emotions. Heartbreak, happiness, sadness, disgust, and love. It was such a beautifully written story that I wish I could experience it for the first time again. It is the second book of the series, which I will be reading the first one immediately!

Eli and Kendra have known each other for years. Kendra isn’t from Fox Grove but would visit her grandma every summer and get to know the kids. She became close with Eli’s little sister Hannah and always harbored a secret crush on Eli. Being 2 years older, Eli hasn’t noticed Kendra until he returns home from college one summer and really notices Kendra. They spend the whole summer together but everything falls apart when Eli returns to school that Fall.

Now nearly 10 years later, they are spending more time together having the same friend group. The loathing that happens I felt like was the perfect amount. It still broke my heart but it didn’t make me uncomfortable like some stories can. When Eli finds out over night that he has newborn daughter, Eli ends up moving next door to Kendra. Issues arise that bring them closer together.

Eli is determined to win Kendra back but so much has changed in the past 10 years that Eli doesn’t even know about. Kendra is worried that they’ll never be able to come back once the truth comes out. It’s truly going to put their relationship to the test.

Thank you so much Pamela Gauthier for letting me be apart of this beautiful story! I really loved it and can’t wait to see what else you have in store! 🥰

[Paula Downey]

This book left me reeling. Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances sucked me in from the beginning and never let me go.

Kendra returns to the small town where she spent her summers growing up and where one summer with her best friend's brother, Eli, turned their friendship into something more. It ended abruptly, leaving behind years of unresolved hurt.

Now they're back in the same friend group, mostly tolerating each other through constant bickering and some top-notch banter. When Eli, a firefighter, unexpectedly becomes a single dad to baby Wren and moves in next door, avoiding each other becomes pretty much impossible.

Kendra absolutely broke my heart. Life has knocked this woman down over and over again, and somehow she just keeps getting back up. She's experienced so much loss, some of which nobody even knows about, yet she remains warm, kind and loving. She keeps opening her heart even when life has given her every reason not to.

And then there's Eli.

Seriously, how many book boyfriends am I allowed to have?

Eli has spent his life believing he isn't worthy of love or capable of giving someone the love they deserve. Yet everything he does with Kendra and Wren proves exactly how wrong he is. Watching him become a father was beautiful, and the attentive, caring way he shows up for Kendra completely ripped me open.

Because the truth is, it has always been her. He didn't walk away because she wasn't enough. He walked away because he didn't believe he was.

The dual POV and flashbacks added so much emotional depth to their story. There is angst, longing and so much unresolved emotion, but there's also fantastic chemistry, witty banter and incredibly tender moments.

And Kendra with Wren? My poor heart. Knowing everything Kendra has experienced and watching her still open herself up to loving this little girl said so much about who she is.

Kendra keeps choosing love despite everything she's lost, while Eli has to finally recognize that he is worthy of being loved and more than capable of giving that love in return.

Five stars. Absolutely knocked it out of the park for me.

This was my first Pamela Gauthier book, but it definitely won't be my last. I'm going back for book one and will absolutely be watching for book three. I only want more.

Thank you to Luna Literary and the author for my advance electronic copy to read and review.

[Samantha Draws]

✨ARC REVIEW✨ 4.5⭐️ The series just keeps getting better!! One summer was all it took for Eli and Kendra to fall hard and fast for each other. After Eli’s father abandoned him, his sisters and his mom he didn’t think he was capable of love. So much happened that one summer. Kendra is now an official resident of Fox Grove and when Eli finds out he has a secret child, it sparks feelings in Kendra she isn’t ready to face. When Kendra ends up in the hospital Eli is right there to stay with her and there for her to help her heal. Those feelings never went away so Eli knows this may finally be his chance to win Kendra back…but there’s so much more to their story and once he finds out Kendra isn’t sure if he’s still going to want that second chance…

Eli and Kendra had my heart on a roller coaster. There was so much raw emotion between the two of them and I could not get enough of their second chance story! My heart broke for Kendra and everything she went through before and then especially everything she went through now. Eli truly steps up…despite his world turning upside down…to care for her. The bond the three of them formed was beautiful!! I was excited to read this one and it did not disappoint!!! Loved seeing the other characters again but these two and all the twists and turns of their story had me hooked from the start!

Tropes:
✨Second Chance
✨Small Town Romance
✨It’s Always Been You
✨Firefighter MMC
✨Forced Proximity

[Sheridan Mullen]

This is my first book from this author and I was interested in it from the blurb. But wow, I was not prepared for just how good this book is! I thought it would be just a simple read but no. I opulent put it down, I laughed, I cried, my heart raced and broke and I wanted to shake certain character than hug them. I was all over the place with this story but in the absolute best way!

The dynamic between Eli and Kendra was thrilling to read about from the very beginning. Things are complicated between them and we slowly learn why as their story unfolds. The pacing and structure for how the author told their story was chefs kiss! The build up of their relationship and for secrets to be revealed, ones the readers know about and ones we don’t expect, was perfect and so satisfying!

There were so many layers with Eli and Kendra’s characters and I loved getting to peel those layers back and fall in love with them. It was wonderful to read how these characters helped each other and eventually come together and build something amazing. Don’t skip this one! I’m going to read book one and keep checking for updates on book 3!

[Haley]

Give me a good second chance romance and I am so here for it! That’s exactly what Kendra and Eli’s story was and I loved it so much. They gave me all the feels from the very beginning and I didn’t want their story to end.

Their story was so emotional, so sweet, and filled with sooo many feelings. I laughed, I hurt and I just felt all of the feels for both of them, but absolutely loved getting to experience their journey. And I can’t forget about baby Wren and all of our side characters too, I loved them all. I just love this world now and the found family with everyone.

I especially loved getting the flashbacks into Kendra and Eli’s past. I always feel like flashbacks can add so much depth to a story and that was definitely the case with these two. The flashbacks give us a better understanding of the characters and help all of the little pieces fall into place and boy, oh boy, did they fall into place. I was so happy that we got to experience that with both Kendra and Eli because it made their story feel all the more meaningful.

I really enjoyed this one and definitely recommend! 🧡

[Kristen Burns]

ARC Review. I may have finished this book, but my heart is still in Fox Grove! If you love small town romance, this book is a must read! I myself am new to the genre, and I absolutely could not put this down.

Eli and Kendra as individuals and as the love interests had such heart and depth, and it was a true joy witnessing their growth over the course of the book, supported by their absolutely precious community of friends and family of Fox Grove, Va. The found family of this series is next level and was a real highlight. I simply cannot wait to read more from this town and these characters. Baby Wren was a true star of the show, serving as a catalyst for bringing Eli and Kendra back together years after their secret relationship none of their friends knew about. It was a privilege to be along for their journey and you can tell how much care the author puts into developing all of these characters! I can say for certain this one will be a comfort re-read for years to come! Can't wait for what's next!

[Jennifer Carey]

Pamela just knows how to write such emotional stories that leaves you feeling it for days. These characters go through so much healing to get to their HEA and it so worth it!

Kendra and Eli's story completely broke my heart. Throughout this book we slowly uncover each new piece of Kendra's history and it only made me love her more. Her resilience and strength is admiring. Eli had a lot of growing up to do and once he became a father over-night everything clicked into place for him. And Kendra was his missing piece. The journey to get to their HEA was bittersweet and I loved Eli's protective patience. He knew he would need to prove to Kendra that he was in it forever and prove he did!! The dual timeline was perfectly paced and filled in their history and heartbreak. This was a journey of growing and healing it made their ending that much sweeter. Eli, Kendra, and baby Wren made the most perfect family!

-Small Town
-Firefighter
-Surprise Single Dad
-Loathe to Love
-Second Chance
-Forced Proximity
-Grief and loss
-Found Family

Thank you Pamela and Luna Literary Management for this ARC!

[Tasha]

Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances by Pamela Gauthier is a sweet, emotional romance filled with heart, healing, and the hope of getting another chance at love. I really enjoyed Kendra and Eli’s story and the chemistry between them. Their journey isn’t always easy, but watching them work through the past and open their hearts again made the story feel genuine and heartfelt. I loved the themes of forgiveness, family, and second chances. The characters are relatable, and Fox Grove is a wonderful setting that makes you want to stay awhile. Pamela Gauthier creates a touching romance with plenty of emotion and moments that tug at the heartstrings. Overall, Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances was a lovely read for anyone who enjoys emotional second-chance romances, strong characters, and a happily-ever-after worth rooting for.

I received an ARC copy from Luna Literacy. Thank you both for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel

[Nikki M]

Things I loved:
He calls her sweethart
She calls him Hulk
The Dual timeline
Eli's multi-step plan
The friendship between the girls
The cabin
Their First date
Protective and growly Eli
Both of their love for Wren

This is the second book in the Fox Grove Series. After reading the first one, I could not wait for this one and it did not disappoint!! Eli and Kendra had a secret relationship when they were younger and I loved seeing the glimpses from their past. Years later when Eli moves in next door to Kendra they become closer. Watching Eli gain Kendra's trust back was so special. Eli as a dad is the sweetest!! He is all in from the beginning and is always so thoughtful when including Kendra. These two were meant for each other and I am so happy they got their HEA. If you are looking for a small town romance, where he is a single dad working hard for second chance with the only woman he has ever loved, add this to your TBR!!

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Tracys Book Shelf]

Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances
Pamela Gauthier
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances is book two in the Fox Grove Series.

Eli and Kendra have a beautiful story to share. It was everything I hoped it would be and more.

I love a story that wrecks me, and this one did not disappoint. Their story is full of emotions, forgiveness, healing, and love. Their story is also full of humor and excellent banter.

The bachelor meets his match, and Kendra is there to witness his transformation. Their second chance at love is worthy of your time. I recommend
Worthy of Sunsets and Second Chances for all readers who love an emotional second chance romance. You will love every minute you spend with them.

The secrets revealed are some of the best scenes, but I will not reveal them.
Sometimes, it's best to go in blind for the best reading experience.

I have loved my time in Fox Grove, and I am anxiously waiting for the next story.

[☆Laura☆]

Kendra y Eli tuvieron un romance años atrás que terminó mal y dejó heridas mis profundas. Con el tiempo, sus caminos volvieron a cruzarse, aunque Kendra tenía muy claro que lo mejor era mantener las distancias.

Eli se entera que es padre y para su sorpresa, Kendra termina mucho más involucrada de lo que cualquiera de los dos esperaba. Pasar tiempo juntos hace que viejos sentimientos comiencen a despertar, pero también los obliga a enfrentarse a todo aquello que los separó.

Kendra sabe que volver a confiar en Eli podría significar arriesgarse a salir lastimada otra vez. Eli, por su parte, está decidido a demostrarle que las personas pueden cambiar y que quizá esta vez su historia merece un final diferente.

______-

Pobre Kendra todo lo malo le pasa.

Gracias Luna literary por el ARC.

[Shannon Parker]

This is a phenomenal book!! I absolutely loved Kendra, Eli, and Wren.

Kendra was in love with Eli when she was 19, but Eli was young and convinced that he didn’t deserve to be loved. After a romantic evening on the beach where Kendra finally confesses her feelings, Eli pushes her away, and she experiences the biggest surprise and most heartbreaking loss of her life.

Years later, their paths cross again through mutual friends, and Eli discovers he’s a father to a newborn baby girl who was left in a Safe Haven box at the firehouse.

I absolutely loved the relationship between Kendra and Eli, but the bond between Kendra and Wren completely stole my heart. 🥹❤️ Their connection was so sweet and emotional, and I loved watching their relationship grow throughout the story. This book definitely pulled at my heartstrings!

10/10 Definitely recommend this book.

[Edie L]

🚨 STOP SCROLLING. YOU NEED THIS BOOK. 🚨

A BABY GETS LEFT AT A FIRE STATION. HE’S NAMED THE DAD. HIS EX BECOMES HIS NEIGHBOR. AND SOMEHOW I’M SUPPOSED TO ACT NORMAL?! 😂🔥

Kendra & Eli had me in a CHOKEHOLD. 😭❤️‍🔥

Second chance? ✔️
Secret baby? ✔️
Hot single dad? OH, ABSOLUTELY. 🫠
Glasses + backwards hat + protective dad energy? KENDRA NEVER STOOD A CHANCE. 😂🔥
Slow burn? WORTH. EVERY. SECOND.

And Wren + Kendra?! 🥹❤️ I’m sorry, but that little girl was out here playing Cupid and I was HERE FOR IT.

Add in the found family, firefighter chaos, secrets, laughs, tears, ALL THE FEELS, and a PERFECT HEA…

I laughed. I cried. I swooned. I yelled at my Kindle. I’m obsessed.

This book really said “here, have every trope you love” and I said THANK YOU. 😂❤️‍🔥

⚠️ Check the TWs for heavier topics before reading.

[JNM]

(ARC) This book covered so many emotional and deep topics while still having such a heartfelt and second chance connection at the center of the story. The journey the MMC and FMC went on together in this dual timeline tugs on your heartstrings and the found family really rounds out the full circle feel. I was so impressed by how Pamela weaved grief and loss into a strong sense of self and love for our FMC— she is so wonderful and I really enjoyed seeing her shine in her own book! The MMC isn’t half bad either 😏 but overall it’s far more than just small town romance, yes at its core that’s the premise but it tackles so much and left me really hooked and dialed in as the reader. Fox Grove is such a beautiful series overall and I can’t wait to see what’s to come 🥰