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Romance in Laguna Beach #1
Second Chance in Laguna
When Sophie Barnes’s fiancé jilts her at the altar, her carefully planned life implodes. Considering her ex’s betrayal to be a rude wake-up call, she leaves everything she knows in San Diego and flees to Laguna Beach. She vows to transform her life by avoiding men for a year and by fulfilling her dream of writing a wildly successful novel.
Sophie’s new landlord, Nicholas Morgan, is a gorgeous, successful architect with a player reputation. He makes it tough for Sophie to remember that she’s sworn to be single. Nick’s avoided the intimacy of a long-term relationship--until Sophie’s independence, courage, and beauty touch his guarded heart. Both Sophie and Nick are terrified of being hurt again, but can they resist the pull of true love?
Sophie’s new landlord, Nicholas Morgan, is a gorgeous, successful architect with a player reputation. He makes it tough for Sophie to remember that she’s sworn to be single. Nick’s avoided the intimacy of a long-term relationship--until Sophie’s independence, courage, and beauty touch his guarded heart. Both Sophie and Nick are terrified of being hurt again, but can they resist the pull of true love?
214 pages, ebook
Published March 31, 2017
82 people are currently reading
304 people want to read
About the author
Claire Marti
27 books739 followersClaire Marti is an award winning and USA Today Bestselling author of swoonworthy Contemporary Romance novels set in Southern California, including the Pacific Vista Ranch series and the California Suits series. She lives in San Diego with her husband, silly dog, and two clever cats.
Claire started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to pick up pencil and paper. After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BA in English Literature, Claire was sidetracked by other careers, including practicing law, selling software for legal publishers, and managing a non-profit animal rescue for a Hollywood actress.
When Claire's not writing, she's teaching yoga. You can find her sixty+ online classes on the international website www.yogadownload.com. A breast cancer survivor, Claire is a sought-after speaker on the power of yoga and meditation. She's been published in numerous magazines with articles on wellness and is the author of a memoir, Come Ride with Me Along the Big C, on her experience beating breast cancer.
Claire started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to pick up pencil and paper. After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BA in English Literature, Claire was sidetracked by other careers, including practicing law, selling software for legal publishers, and managing a non-profit animal rescue for a Hollywood actress.
When Claire's not writing, she's teaching yoga. You can find her sixty+ online classes on the international website www.yogadownload.com. A breast cancer survivor, Claire is a sought-after speaker on the power of yoga and meditation. She's been published in numerous magazines with articles on wellness and is the author of a memoir, Come Ride with Me Along the Big C, on her experience beating breast cancer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
May 25, 2017
Sophie Barnes was jilted at the altar by her long time fiance. In need of a change, she quits her job to pursue her dream of writing a book. She also decides a change of scenery is needed and moves to Laguna Beach. She will take a year to recover from her recent heartbreak and try to restart her life.
Sophie rents a house from Nick Morgan who is a local architect. He is known around town as a ladies’ man who isn't interested in settling down with a long term relationship. He is intrigued by Sophie but she shows no interest in his advances. He does his best to romance her and always finds reasons to visit the house in person. Time will tell if they are compatible and can find a connection.
This is a light romantic novel that would be a fun beach read for your summer holiday. I look forward to the second book in this series by Claire Marti.
Giveaway on my blog until 5/27 https://www.facebook.com/suzyapproved...
Sophie rents a house from Nick Morgan who is a local architect. He is known around town as a ladies’ man who isn't interested in settling down with a long term relationship. He is intrigued by Sophie but she shows no interest in his advances. He does his best to romance her and always finds reasons to visit the house in person. Time will tell if they are compatible and can find a connection.
This is a light romantic novel that would be a fun beach read for your summer holiday. I look forward to the second book in this series by Claire Marti.
Giveaway on my blog until 5/27 https://www.facebook.com/suzyapproved...
April 3, 2017
This fun, fast-paced romance takes us on a quest for a second chance at romance, despite the fact that the heroine isn't looking for love. Sometimes, it's when you aren't looking that good things find you.
Sophie is kind of a ditzy, insecure mess when we first meet her. She recently broke it off with her fiancé, quit her job and rented a house site unseen in a brand new town to start fresh. After years as a magazine editor, she wants to try her hand at penning her first novel, and immediately breaks the first rule: don't quit your day job. Second? Don't fall for your landlord.
Nick Morgan is handsome, sexy, and workaholic -- the opposite of his less-than-organized and klutzy new tenant, but he's immediately drawn to both her beauty and her spark. He's a self-employed (and very successful) architect, trying to achieve the accolades that his father never received. He has no time for long term relationships, thus has developed a rep as a player. But after a few dates with Sophie, he knows he wants something more.
The obstacles? Her insecurities, her ex, his busy schedule, and a conniving coworker who tries to sabotage the budding relationship. All par for the course in this sexy romp, just this side of chick lit. Fast-paced, light and breezy, I would totally recommend this fun read for beach or poolside reading. I also can't wait for a few follow up stories to give Sophie's friends a chance to find love too!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. This review originally appeared on the Read, Write, Repeat blog.
Sophie is kind of a ditzy, insecure mess when we first meet her. She recently broke it off with her fiancé, quit her job and rented a house site unseen in a brand new town to start fresh. After years as a magazine editor, she wants to try her hand at penning her first novel, and immediately breaks the first rule: don't quit your day job. Second? Don't fall for your landlord.
Nick Morgan is handsome, sexy, and workaholic -- the opposite of his less-than-organized and klutzy new tenant, but he's immediately drawn to both her beauty and her spark. He's a self-employed (and very successful) architect, trying to achieve the accolades that his father never received. He has no time for long term relationships, thus has developed a rep as a player. But after a few dates with Sophie, he knows he wants something more.
The obstacles? Her insecurities, her ex, his busy schedule, and a conniving coworker who tries to sabotage the budding relationship. All par for the course in this sexy romp, just this side of chick lit. Fast-paced, light and breezy, I would totally recommend this fun read for beach or poolside reading. I also can't wait for a few follow up stories to give Sophie's friends a chance to find love too!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. This review originally appeared on the Read, Write, Repeat blog.
May 2, 2017
The sexual tension sizzles in this exciting debut novel. The attraction between Sophie and Nick is undeniable, and I loved watching them find their way together. Also, yay for a man with a giant dog!
**I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
**I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
April 4, 2017
Second Chance in Laguna was a wonderful book that kept me captivated from the very first page. I especially enjoyed the realities of being a writer the author wove into the novel. She didn't sugar coat the struggles Sophie would have to go through as a unemployed writer. It made the stakes higher as you continued on Sophie's journey who turned her back on her past and looked forward to her future. Nick is a perfect hero, a pleasant mixture of an alpha and beta male. I loved Nick's pursuit of Sophie and how he often questioned why he was so taken by her. Sophie and Nick had chemistry right from the beginning. The angst, mostly derived from Sophie's part due to her past, kept the tension nicely coiled between the two. There's possession, protection and there's support and respect. Their love scenes were like two million on a Scoville heat scale. Spicy!!! A great and fast-paced read that you're not going to want to put down. Looking forward to book 2!
May 1, 2017
Sweet and easy read! Second Chance in Laguna is a fun and sweet romance -- perfect for the beach or those days you need a quick escape.
The story follows Sophie, who has left her job after a failed relationship and settles in Laguna to pursue her dream of writing a book. Although she tries to resist his charms, Sophie can't fight her attraction to her landlord Nick, the playboy of Laguna. Should she trust him? Trouble ensues when her ex fiance (who cheated on her) comes calling and Nick's employee creates trouble. Will Nick and Sophie ever have their happily ever after?
The author's writing is good, and I found the story easy to follow. Nick is the perfect hero and the reader will identify with Sophie and root for her second chance at love with Nick.
The story follows Sophie, who has left her job after a failed relationship and settles in Laguna to pursue her dream of writing a book. Although she tries to resist his charms, Sophie can't fight her attraction to her landlord Nick, the playboy of Laguna. Should she trust him? Trouble ensues when her ex fiance (who cheated on her) comes calling and Nick's employee creates trouble. Will Nick and Sophie ever have their happily ever after?
The author's writing is good, and I found the story easy to follow. Nick is the perfect hero and the reader will identify with Sophie and root for her second chance at love with Nick.
April 1, 2017
How can I describe how much I loved this book. So much fun to read. As a woman who struggles with insecurity, it was wonderful to read about Sophie's courage and MY GOD Nick is smookin'! And so that I'm not so easily swayed by beauty I will also say that I enjoyed his humor. But a man who is hot and funny (. I digress. The notion of following your dreams - that really resonated with me in this story. a fun and thoughtful story with two very well developed characters that I'm sure you all will love. Thumbs up up UP
July 1, 2017
Sophie moves to Laguna after being jilted by a cheating fiance. She embarks on her desire to become a writer. As she begins to rebuild her life, she meets a great guy (Nick) that slowly finds his way into her heart. She learns to trust and love again. Nick has never met a woman like Sophie. Their chemistry is like nothing he's experienced before. A misunderstanding makes him turn away from Sophie, only to realize that he may have overacted out of fear of getting hurt. I really enjoyed this book. The ending made me smile.
June 19, 2017
Great beach read
This is a great beach or summer vacation book. The characters are fun to get to know. A lovely and entertaining book. Can't wait for the next one.
This is a great beach or summer vacation book. The characters are fun to get to know. A lovely and entertaining book. Can't wait for the next one.
April 22, 2017
Do you believe in having second chances in life? In "Second Chance in Laguna", by Claire Marti, we get to see if this is possible. Wild Rose Press is the publisher and the publication date was March 31,2017.
The genres of this novel are Women's Fiction, Chick Lit, and Romance.
The author describes the setting of Laguna as a beach community, in a small town with restaurants, and small stores. It is a perfect town for aspiring artists, architects and authors.
Claire Marti describes her characters as complex, insecure, flawed and mostly likeable. I loved the pets and their quirky personalities in this story. I received this copy for an honest review.
The two main characters of the story are both sensitive and artistic. Sophie has come to Laguna after a devastating breakup. She has quit her job, and plans to write a book. After being betrayed by her fiance, she has sworn off men. Nick is as an successful architect. who has had family responsibilities, and doesn't want to get hurt. Yet sparks are flying between them. Is it possible for a second chance at love and life?
The author writes about betrayal, trust, family, friendships, relationships, love and hope.
This was a delightful, easy, enjoyable read that I would recommend.
The genres of this novel are Women's Fiction, Chick Lit, and Romance.
The author describes the setting of Laguna as a beach community, in a small town with restaurants, and small stores. It is a perfect town for aspiring artists, architects and authors.
Claire Marti describes her characters as complex, insecure, flawed and mostly likeable. I loved the pets and their quirky personalities in this story. I received this copy for an honest review.
The two main characters of the story are both sensitive and artistic. Sophie has come to Laguna after a devastating breakup. She has quit her job, and plans to write a book. After being betrayed by her fiance, she has sworn off men. Nick is as an successful architect. who has had family responsibilities, and doesn't want to get hurt. Yet sparks are flying between them. Is it possible for a second chance at love and life?
The author writes about betrayal, trust, family, friendships, relationships, love and hope.
This was a delightful, easy, enjoyable read that I would recommend.
April 9, 2017
4.5
Fun, fast read that I couldn't put down.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Fun, fast read that I couldn't put down.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 23, 2017
A wonderful read a novel about betrayal second chances set in the wonderful beach town of Laguna,This would be perfect for your summer read,
July 25, 2017
A heroine jilted at the altar?
Change in career to get a fresh start?
Sexy landlord who has a bit of a reputation and she's not buying?
SOLD.
I love this story! A great second chance at love, starting over, and finding happiness. It's a light read, great for those who need a little escape. You won't be sorry.
Change in career to get a fresh start?
Sexy landlord who has a bit of a reputation and she's not buying?
SOLD.
I love this story! A great second chance at love, starting over, and finding happiness. It's a light read, great for those who need a little escape. You won't be sorry.
May 20, 2020
Second Chance in Laguna is a fun, fast-paced romance that is a true delight. I read it over several sittings (lyings?) in a hammock, which I highly recommend.
October 6, 2017
The perfect beach romance novel! Claire's writing style is fun and fiery. I started reading this book on my morning commute and it actually made me look forward to my long train ride to work every morning. Can’t wait to read the Claire’s next book!
July 28, 2018
First, I want to thank Claire Marti for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Second Chance in Laguna by Claire Marti is the first book in the Finding Forever in the Laguna Series. After you read this first book you will be wanting to read her second book in the series. Claire has something for everyone packed into this book. She has this book set in a beautiful location of Laguna (somewhere I would love to visit after reading about it), Sophie’s profession was a writer, sexual tension between Sophie and her Landlord Nick, ex fiances whom don’t have a clue, Mothers whom just don’t understand, etc.
Three characters I didn’t care for in this book for various reasons were Sophie’s Mom. She reminded me of mine in a way. Thinking of what society would think and not actually what was her daughter truly wanted. This hurt Sophie and made herself distant from her Mom. Heather, Nick’s Secretary because she was trying to cause problems between Nick and Sophia. That made Nick very upset and hurt Sophia. Then you have Doug whom hurt Sophia in the past badly. Now showing up unannounced threatening her and telling her he wants her back. Ex’s are exes for a reason and need to stay that way I say.
I absolutely love the Sophia and Nick storyline from how they met and how their relationship evolved. I loved how there was so much sexual tension built up on Sophie’s end. She was not going to give in as she promised herself no distractions. However, there was no denying their sexual tension that they both had for eachother.
One of my favorite scenes is reading how Sophie as an author prepared for a day of writing.
Second Chance in Laguna by Claire Marti is the first book in the Finding Forever in the Laguna Series. After you read this first book you will be wanting to read her second book in the series. Claire has something for everyone packed into this book. She has this book set in a beautiful location of Laguna (somewhere I would love to visit after reading about it), Sophie’s profession was a writer, sexual tension between Sophie and her Landlord Nick, ex fiances whom don’t have a clue, Mothers whom just don’t understand, etc.
Three characters I didn’t care for in this book for various reasons were Sophie’s Mom. She reminded me of mine in a way. Thinking of what society would think and not actually what was her daughter truly wanted. This hurt Sophie and made herself distant from her Mom. Heather, Nick’s Secretary because she was trying to cause problems between Nick and Sophia. That made Nick very upset and hurt Sophia. Then you have Doug whom hurt Sophia in the past badly. Now showing up unannounced threatening her and telling her he wants her back. Ex’s are exes for a reason and need to stay that way I say.
I absolutely love the Sophia and Nick storyline from how they met and how their relationship evolved. I loved how there was so much sexual tension built up on Sophie’s end. She was not going to give in as she promised herself no distractions. However, there was no denying their sexual tension that they both had for eachother.
One of my favorite scenes is reading how Sophie as an author prepared for a day of writing.
July 1, 2023
Second Chance in Laguna by Claire Marti is a good, and enjoyable steamy second chance beach romance read. The story has a great captivated entertaining fun fast-paced story line. The characters are great, and they have great chemistry. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 21, 2023
I had read the first version years ago and I never read books from this author again. My bad. This book entertains and gives you a good feeling of HEA. Yes the spiel is the same but the author has evolved over the years. I cannot wait to read "new work" by her.
Thru Booksirens I received an ARC and I choose to leave these notes.
Thru Booksirens I received an ARC and I choose to leave these notes.
January 21, 2019
I loved Sophie and Nick's journey. I almost forgot to disembark my train, because I was reading their story! Anyway, I could totally relate to Sophie's insecurities and courage in her life transition, and Nick's evolution was just as engaging. Their past challenges, hopes, and fears, intertwined with intense heartwarming love filled my heart. An enjoying and satisfying read!
June 20, 2019
Light and steamy summer read. Nick and Sophie have sparks from their first meeting, but they both have their reasons for resisting the inevitable. Once they acknowledge their feelings, everything heats up fast and furious, but they have to figure out for themselves if they can trust their guts or if they're going to give into old fears and new threats.
March 4, 2018
Not my usual genre, but I couldn’t put this book down! The story and characters were so fun to follow. Not wasting any time, on to part two!
July 13, 2023
This is the first series written by Claire Marti and it was a nice treat!
After being ditched at the altar, the last thing Sophie Barnes needs is a player in her life. She moved to Laguna Beach to start over and write a wildly successful novel, not become involved with her sexy new landlord, Nicholas Morgan. Nick didn’t get his player reputation by accident––truthfully, the successful architect avoids intimacy like it’s his job. But when he meets his new tenant, who is gorgeous, guarded, and wants nothing to do with him, he falls hard and fast. Something about her makes Nick want to break down her walls - and his own.
This romance is super sweet and definitely and insta-love. I´m not a fan of Sophie (I like her way too much in the next book as the helpful friend) because she keeps changing her mind about trusting Nick. I can see why she does it, but it was a bit exhausting. I really like Nick and all his family story. The chemistry is absolutely there and I enjoyed a lot all the sexy times and the pets. So cute!
The story is easy to read and engaging. Always a pleasure to read something written by Claire Marti.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After being ditched at the altar, the last thing Sophie Barnes needs is a player in her life. She moved to Laguna Beach to start over and write a wildly successful novel, not become involved with her sexy new landlord, Nicholas Morgan. Nick didn’t get his player reputation by accident––truthfully, the successful architect avoids intimacy like it’s his job. But when he meets his new tenant, who is gorgeous, guarded, and wants nothing to do with him, he falls hard and fast. Something about her makes Nick want to break down her walls - and his own.
This romance is super sweet and definitely and insta-love. I´m not a fan of Sophie (I like her way too much in the next book as the helpful friend) because she keeps changing her mind about trusting Nick. I can see why she does it, but it was a bit exhausting. I really like Nick and all his family story. The chemistry is absolutely there and I enjoyed a lot all the sexy times and the pets. So cute!
The story is easy to read and engaging. Always a pleasure to read something written by Claire Marti.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 21, 2023
Claire Marti's series starter "Second Chance in Laguna" is a delightful read. Sophie and Nick are two great characters and the Laguna setting makes it a perfect summer read.
Sophie is leaving her horrible ex and job behind in San Diego for a new adventure in Laguna. Taking a risk , she decides to use this break writing a book, and her reset is her chance to try new things. Nick has been the town player, but once he meets Sophie, his days as a playboy are numbered.
The banter between Sophie and Nick is perfect, and the conflict, spurred on by a mean girl on steroids, is great hook to move the plot along. I loved the interactions with the supporting characters of Kelly and Alyssa. The groundwork for the next parts of the series are well laid out.
Great read. I look forward to more of Marti's books.
Sophie is leaving her horrible ex and job behind in San Diego for a new adventure in Laguna. Taking a risk , she decides to use this break writing a book, and her reset is her chance to try new things. Nick has been the town player, but once he meets Sophie, his days as a playboy are numbered.
The banter between Sophie and Nick is perfect, and the conflict, spurred on by a mean girl on steroids, is great hook to move the plot along. I loved the interactions with the supporting characters of Kelly and Alyssa. The groundwork for the next parts of the series are well laid out.
Great read. I look forward to more of Marti's books.
July 5, 2018
Have it in audio
This is my second listen from the author. I listen to book 2 first. This is book 1 in the series . This story is about betrayal , second chance at love and finding true love. The narrator was good. She had a clear voice .
The hero is Nick. Heroine is Sophie .
Sophie was jilted at the alter . Sophie was devestated . But She moved on ... by buying a house in a small town she never seen or been to . She needs wants a fresh start . So she follows her heart for a carrer .... she becomes a writer .
Her landlord is Nick. Nick is a ladies man. Nick also wants Sophie. Sophie and Nick have an attraction between the two of them.
But Sophie has a rule . And she broke it will Nick.
Will they find their ever after
This is my second listen from the author. I listen to book 2 first. This is book 1 in the series . This story is about betrayal , second chance at love and finding true love. The narrator was good. She had a clear voice .
The hero is Nick. Heroine is Sophie .
Sophie was jilted at the alter . Sophie was devestated . But She moved on ... by buying a house in a small town she never seen or been to . She needs wants a fresh start . So she follows her heart for a carrer .... she becomes a writer .
Her landlord is Nick. Nick is a ladies man. Nick also wants Sophie. Sophie and Nick have an attraction between the two of them.
But Sophie has a rule . And she broke it will Nick.
Will they find their ever after
June 30, 2023
Second Chance in Laguna is a perfect beach read ... or the perfect read when you want to be at the beach and aren’t. The coastal California setting is beautifully described, and as always when I read Claire Marti’s books, I want to hop on a plane and go there.
I’ve read Marti’s more recent series, Pacific Vista Ranch and California Suits, and loved them. They are one-click buys for me. So, I was excited for this chance to read the new edition of her first series. I was not disappointed. Her characters jump off the page. I want to be friends with Sophie.
The chemistry between Sophie and Nick is off the charts, and I really enjoyed their love story and watching them find their way to their happy-ever-after. I can’t wait to read book 2!
I’ve read Marti’s more recent series, Pacific Vista Ranch and California Suits, and loved them. They are one-click buys for me. So, I was excited for this chance to read the new edition of her first series. I was not disappointed. Her characters jump off the page. I want to be friends with Sophie.
The chemistry between Sophie and Nick is off the charts, and I really enjoyed their love story and watching them find their way to their happy-ever-after. I can’t wait to read book 2!
August 15, 2025
Some people shouldn't be writers. This truth is demonstrated by the mass of computer-generated manuscripts currently clogging the publishing industry. Sophie, for whom "taking a year to write a book" obviously means "taking a year to get over an unhappy romance," spends that year focussed on sex with a new man. Too many detailed sex scenes for this computer (don't readers know that content that mentions body parts attracts gross-out medical ads? Buy the printed version) but Sophie's eagerness for the act of marriage is probably something some readers want to recall.
July 11, 2017
1.5+stars. I didn't like it but it wasn't terrible. Here's what I liked- cool motivated women and nice friendships. What I didn't like- instalove and two people near the top of their careers despite being only in their late 20's and early 30's. Gimme a break. The book was short and lacked back story and character development that I like in a good romance. Also, this whirlwind romance was just too sappy and the ending is a perfect example of cliche.
January 7, 2024
Frustrating
I get it, a lot of angst and a lot of and back and forth. But I felt more like I was rooting for the relationship to fail. I felt more like I was reading some type of YA melodramatic puppy dog romance rather than people trying to work through their issues to find a point they can stand together.
I get it, a lot of angst and a lot of and back and forth. But I felt more like I was rooting for the relationship to fail. I felt more like I was reading some type of YA melodramatic puppy dog romance rather than people trying to work through their issues to find a point they can stand together.
January 20, 2020
Good
In parts of this book I found it to be a “teenager” read. It was a good book but, for the ages of the characters I at times found them to be young and quick to react to the struggles of building a lasting relationship. A what finally happened to Sophie’s nemesis?
In parts of this book I found it to be a “teenager” read. It was a good book but, for the ages of the characters I at times found them to be young and quick to react to the struggles of building a lasting relationship. A what finally happened to Sophie’s nemesis?
August 2, 2023
Second chance in Laguna is an entertaining beach read, that is sweet. Nick and Sophie are a charming couple that you can not resist. An excellent read
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 17, 2017
This was a sweet read. However, I didn’t quite connect with the characters as I was reading. For me, it felt a little predictable and I wasn’t engaged.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews