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Second Glances #0.5
Second to None
Billionaire chemist Max Varela is selling his company and leaving New York for good when Emily Wade bursts into his office, desperate for his help in funding her program for disadvantaged kids and shelter dogs. Seven years ago, he fell in love with her when she was married to another man. To fight the unbidden attraction, he cut off all contact—but he’s never forgotten her.
Ever since her husband died, Emily has poured her heart and soul into the after-school care center. Seeing Max reawakens the pain of her loss, but it also brings unexpected hope for the future. As emotions thought long gone resurface, the two begin a passionate affair that seems destined for a fairy-tale ending.
That is, until Max reveals that he’s moving to Chicago in a matter of weeks and wants Emily to uproot her daughter and her life to come with him. If a second chance at love is possible, someone’s got to give.
Ever since her husband died, Emily has poured her heart and soul into the after-school care center. Seeing Max reawakens the pain of her loss, but it also brings unexpected hope for the future. As emotions thought long gone resurface, the two begin a passionate affair that seems destined for a fairy-tale ending.
That is, until Max reveals that he’s moving to Chicago in a matter of weeks and wants Emily to uproot her daughter and her life to come with him. If a second chance at love is possible, someone’s got to give.
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First published September 12, 2017
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About the author
Nancy Herkness
23 books896 followersNancy Herkness is the award-winning, best-selling author of contemporary romance for readers who love richly developed characters and an immersive reading experience. Meet the wealthy, powerful alpha heroes who need down-to-earth women to show them how to find soul-deep love and pulse-racing passion. Nancy’s vivid writing brings to life settings both elegant and homey, while making her flawed but fascinating characters leap off the page and into your heart. Savor the thrill of falling in love by diving into one of Nancy’s books.
Author of the Royal Caleva, Consultants, Wager of Hearts, and Whisper Horse series, as well as several other contemporary romance novels, Nancy has sold over a million books. She is also a two-time nominee for the Romance Writers of America’s RITA® award.
Nancy has received many honors for her work, including the Book Buyers Best Top Pick, the New England Readers’ Choice award, and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. She graduated from Princeton University with a degree in English literature and creative writing.
A native of West Virginia, Nancy now lives twelve miles west of the Lincoln Tunnel in suburban New Jersey with two tabby cats.
For more information about Nancy and her books, visit www.NancyHerkness.com. Sign up for her monthly newsletter—and get a free novella—at: http://www.nancyherkness.com/newsletter/
Social media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nancyherkness
BookBub author: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nancy...
Amazon author: https://amazon.com/stores/author/B001...
Author of the Royal Caleva, Consultants, Wager of Hearts, and Whisper Horse series, as well as several other contemporary romance novels, Nancy has sold over a million books. She is also a two-time nominee for the Romance Writers of America’s RITA® award.
Nancy has received many honors for her work, including the Book Buyers Best Top Pick, the New England Readers’ Choice award, and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. She graduated from Princeton University with a degree in English literature and creative writing.
A native of West Virginia, Nancy now lives twelve miles west of the Lincoln Tunnel in suburban New Jersey with two tabby cats.
For more information about Nancy and her books, visit www.NancyHerkness.com. Sign up for her monthly newsletter—and get a free novella—at: http://www.nancyherkness.com/newsletter/
Social media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nancyherkness
BookBub author: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nancy...
Amazon author: https://amazon.com/stores/author/B001...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
September 3, 2017
This was a super cute and quick read! Nancy Herkness packed a mighty punch in this sweet little novella. It's emotional, flirty, and sexy to boot.
Max Varela gets a huge shock when Emily Wade bursts into his life after seven years of no contact. He purposefully removed himself from her life because he was secretly in love with her and she was married to his friend. Now that they've re-established contact after so many years, those feelings come bursting to the surface. Can Max continue to do the honorable thing or will he act on his feelings now that he's free to do so?
What I enjoyed: Nancy's style of writing is so detailed and focused. Although, this is a novella and on the shorter side, I didn't feel like there was anything missing from the plot. The characters are detailed. You get a strong sense of their feelings and beliefs. That's one of the true strengths I've noticed with this author's work. She pours her heart and soul into her characters.
The storyline is intriguing and emotional. I feel for Emily and Max both. A difficult and traumatic events leads to their second chance at romance. And although their are obstacles in their way, they don't lose sight of the great potential in front of them. The main characters shine, but the secondary characters are also great. I especially loved the kids and the story behind the shelter.
All in all, another great read from Nancy Herkness!
Max Varela gets a huge shock when Emily Wade bursts into his life after seven years of no contact. He purposefully removed himself from her life because he was secretly in love with her and she was married to his friend. Now that they've re-established contact after so many years, those feelings come bursting to the surface. Can Max continue to do the honorable thing or will he act on his feelings now that he's free to do so?
What I enjoyed: Nancy's style of writing is so detailed and focused. Although, this is a novella and on the shorter side, I didn't feel like there was anything missing from the plot. The characters are detailed. You get a strong sense of their feelings and beliefs. That's one of the true strengths I've noticed with this author's work. She pours her heart and soul into her characters.
The storyline is intriguing and emotional. I feel for Emily and Max both. A difficult and traumatic events leads to their second chance at romance. And although their are obstacles in their way, they don't lose sight of the great potential in front of them. The main characters shine, but the secondary characters are also great. I especially loved the kids and the story behind the shelter.
All in all, another great read from Nancy Herkness!
October 2, 2017
4 - "Things are different now." Stars!
Nancy Herkness begins her new Second Glances series with an enjoyable second chance romance Seasonal novella.
The woman he’d been obsessed with… was no longer off limits.
Second to None was my first foray into this author’s writing, and I enjoyed the story she gave Max and Emily so much, that I one-clicked her entire Wager of Hearts series straight after finishing it.
Nothing particularly new or unusual about the story line with this couple, but it was well written and gave a good foundation for the K-9 Angelz programme for disadvantaged inner-city kids in South Harlem, which Emily sets up, with a large cash injection from Max, this also facilitates them reconnecting seven years after their last meeting, in which time Emily has also become a widower.
"It’s been seven years. I can wait until the right place and time."
It also sets up the characters, the Carver Centre, it's patrons and the locale really well, which is great because the rest of the series will develop around it as a group of rich (but lonely) bachelors finds themselves on the board of directors as well as finding love along the way.
Definitely worth a couple of hours of your time, if you are looking for easy going, well written, contemporary romance, with the right level between emotion and drama to keep it interesting.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Nancy Herkness begins her new Second Glances series with an enjoyable second chance romance Seasonal novella.
The woman he’d been obsessed with… was no longer off limits.
Second to None was my first foray into this author’s writing, and I enjoyed the story she gave Max and Emily so much, that I one-clicked her entire Wager of Hearts series straight after finishing it.
Nothing particularly new or unusual about the story line with this couple, but it was well written and gave a good foundation for the K-9 Angelz programme for disadvantaged inner-city kids in South Harlem, which Emily sets up, with a large cash injection from Max, this also facilitates them reconnecting seven years after their last meeting, in which time Emily has also become a widower.
"It’s been seven years. I can wait until the right place and time."
It also sets up the characters, the Carver Centre, it's patrons and the locale really well, which is great because the rest of the series will develop around it as a group of rich (but lonely) bachelors finds themselves on the board of directors as well as finding love along the way.
Definitely worth a couple of hours of your time, if you are looking for easy going, well written, contemporary romance, with the right level between emotion and drama to keep it interesting.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
September 7, 2017
This novella was really sweet. It's one of those books that made me smile with happiness at the end. This was a very heartwarming story.
Max and a Emily met 7 years prior when Max was contracted by the military to use his polymer to use as body armor for the soldiers. Max is working with Emily's husband, Captain Jake Wade. During the short time Max is on the military base he becomes friends with Jake and Emily. He is immediately drawn to Emily and after a couple of months he realizes he needs to stay away from her.
Despite his friendship to Jake and how much he admires him, he knows he can't stay in contact when his time at the base is over. 7 years later Emily bursts into Max's office hoping he will help give a grant to the K9 Angelz program for the children center she works at. Max learns Jake died in combat 3 years prior.
First let me just say that the way the author dealt with the dead husband was respectful throughout the whole book. Max never wanted anything bad to happen to Jake. He genuinely liked him and kept his distance out of respect. When Jake decides to pursue Emily, it's done respectfully. We do hear about Jake throughout the book because Emily had a daughter with him and when Max met Izzy, that scene was very heartwarming. She asks about his time with her father and it was handled very well. I fell for Max because of that scene.
Max graduated at MIT and has become a very rich CEO, but he's lonely. He's always been lonely. He never had a great home life and his drive to change his life was strong. He may come off cold in this story but I think his character was spot on for for his upbringing. It's what makes the small moments special with him. Add in Diego, a 12 year old boy who plays a big role as a side character as one of the unfortunate children and this book almost had me crying.
For this short novella, it brings the emotions out. I look forward to more in this series. ARC provided by NetGalley.
Max and a Emily met 7 years prior when Max was contracted by the military to use his polymer to use as body armor for the soldiers. Max is working with Emily's husband, Captain Jake Wade. During the short time Max is on the military base he becomes friends with Jake and Emily. He is immediately drawn to Emily and after a couple of months he realizes he needs to stay away from her.
Despite his friendship to Jake and how much he admires him, he knows he can't stay in contact when his time at the base is over. 7 years later Emily bursts into Max's office hoping he will help give a grant to the K9 Angelz program for the children center she works at. Max learns Jake died in combat 3 years prior.
First let me just say that the way the author dealt with the dead husband was respectful throughout the whole book. Max never wanted anything bad to happen to Jake. He genuinely liked him and kept his distance out of respect. When Jake decides to pursue Emily, it's done respectfully. We do hear about Jake throughout the book because Emily had a daughter with him and when Max met Izzy, that scene was very heartwarming. She asks about his time with her father and it was handled very well. I fell for Max because of that scene.
Max graduated at MIT and has become a very rich CEO, but he's lonely. He's always been lonely. He never had a great home life and his drive to change his life was strong. He may come off cold in this story but I think his character was spot on for for his upbringing. It's what makes the small moments special with him. Add in Diego, a 12 year old boy who plays a big role as a side character as one of the unfortunate children and this book almost had me crying.
For this short novella, it brings the emotions out. I look forward to more in this series. ARC provided by NetGalley.
September 3, 2017
3.5 stars
Second to None by Nancy Herkness was a quick, sweet and heartwarming second chance/friends to lovers read.
The storyline was enjoyable, I was drawn in from the first few pages and read it in one sitting.
I liked Emily and Max, they were good people with big hearts.
I was touched with Emily's compassion and how giving she was, watching her with Diego and the other disadvantages children pulled at my heartstrings. Then add the adorable puppies and I was gone.
Max took a little more time for me to warm too, he came across a little too stiff and closed off in the start. But the more time he spent at the after-school care centre and with Emily we got to see the real man behind the hard front.
These two were good together and even though I would have loved to see Max relax a little more I totally believed in his feelings for Emily and her daughter and have no doubt they would have a long and happy life together.
Overall, Second to None was a good read and a nice start to the Second Glances series. Looking forward to reading more in the near future.
*Pre-Order*
Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06...
*Thank you to the publisher for the advance copy.*
Second to None by Nancy Herkness was a quick, sweet and heartwarming second chance/friends to lovers read.
The storyline was enjoyable, I was drawn in from the first few pages and read it in one sitting.
I liked Emily and Max, they were good people with big hearts.
I was touched with Emily's compassion and how giving she was, watching her with Diego and the other disadvantages children pulled at my heartstrings. Then add the adorable puppies and I was gone.
Max took a little more time for me to warm too, he came across a little too stiff and closed off in the start. But the more time he spent at the after-school care centre and with Emily we got to see the real man behind the hard front.
These two were good together and even though I would have loved to see Max relax a little more I totally believed in his feelings for Emily and her daughter and have no doubt they would have a long and happy life together.
Overall, Second to None was a good read and a nice start to the Second Glances series. Looking forward to reading more in the near future.
*Pre-Order*
Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06...
*Thank you to the publisher for the advance copy.*
September 16, 2017
Longing was a key element that was for Max and Emily. For Max love came at a time when he could not act on his feelings. The man who seemed to have it all together was internally falling apart. Kate is a woman with a great deal of plans. Her work helps her through loss and a sense of guilt that has haunted her every waking moment. Dealing with her emotions has never come easy, but nothing worth having ever is. Ms. Herkness is a crafty storyteller. She weaves intricate tales that have emotionally challenging themes, but can seduce the most critical of skeptics to open up their hearts and minds to her brand of temptation.
October 2, 2017
Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Fabiola
Review Copy from the Publisher
Second to none is a novella introducing the setting of Nancy Herkness’ new series titled Second Glances. The series gathers her two preferred themes: billionaire heroes and animals, here dogs.
The novella features Emily Wade, who comes and asks Max Varela, the hero, to intervene in her request for grant file for an association where she’s volunteer. The association is a refuge for disavantadged children.
Max and Emily already met when she was happily married. The hero fell madly in love with her and not accepting the promiscuity he severed all contacts. The heroine never understood his action, and we suspect she’ll learn it during the story. In any case now she’s a widow, dices are redistributed and our hero decides it’s time to take a chance. Because as much as he’s succeeded in putting aside his attraction for their years being separated, now he has a big crush for Emily again. However he hides an important information from her about his near future.
Second to none is a novella, so it’s short. The author used the format very well, getting to the heart of the matter and offering the reader a good evolution for the romance and a nice happy end.
I liked the heroine, the relations she has with her daughter and the association’s members as well as with the children registered there. I liked her determination to do anything in order not to disappoint the children she takes care of. I appreciated the decision she takes when the hero declares his projects. I found the reaction very credible.
The hero is perfect, as I like them. Nice, protective, without second thoughts. That’s why he decides to help her after having seen what the association was doing for these children. Max also has personal reasons for taking this decision.
The animals have an important place in the book, but they don’t take precedence over the love story. Once again Nancy Herkness succeeds in balancing both.
In spite of the story’s size, we have a beautiful love scene well written.
To conclude, a very lovely story I recommend.
Reviewed by Fabiola
Review Copy from the Publisher
Second to none is a novella introducing the setting of Nancy Herkness’ new series titled Second Glances. The series gathers her two preferred themes: billionaire heroes and animals, here dogs.
The novella features Emily Wade, who comes and asks Max Varela, the hero, to intervene in her request for grant file for an association where she’s volunteer. The association is a refuge for disavantadged children.
Max and Emily already met when she was happily married. The hero fell madly in love with her and not accepting the promiscuity he severed all contacts. The heroine never understood his action, and we suspect she’ll learn it during the story. In any case now she’s a widow, dices are redistributed and our hero decides it’s time to take a chance. Because as much as he’s succeeded in putting aside his attraction for their years being separated, now he has a big crush for Emily again. However he hides an important information from her about his near future.
Second to none is a novella, so it’s short. The author used the format very well, getting to the heart of the matter and offering the reader a good evolution for the romance and a nice happy end.
I liked the heroine, the relations she has with her daughter and the association’s members as well as with the children registered there. I liked her determination to do anything in order not to disappoint the children she takes care of. I appreciated the decision she takes when the hero declares his projects. I found the reaction very credible.
The hero is perfect, as I like them. Nice, protective, without second thoughts. That’s why he decides to help her after having seen what the association was doing for these children. Max also has personal reasons for taking this decision.
The animals have an important place in the book, but they don’t take precedence over the love story. Once again Nancy Herkness succeeds in balancing both.
In spite of the story’s size, we have a beautiful love scene well written.
To conclude, a very lovely story I recommend.
August 13, 2018
Second to None was a nice read and good start to the Second Glances series. The story re-introduces two people who knew each other years earlier as friends.
Seven years ago, Emily Wade was married to the love of her life, had a toddler, and was enjoying life as a military wife. Her husband Jake was a US Marine Captain. He spent six months testing and working with Max Varela on a body armor for soldiers. The two spent a lot of time together, with Jake often inviting Max over for dinner. As a result, Max and Emily became friends. But once testing was complete, Max severed any and all ties with the couple.
Three years ago, Emily and her daughter Izzy’s lives were turned upside down, when Jake was killed during a mission. Emily relocated from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to Harlem, New York. Since then, Emily has worked for the Carver Center as its director. The non-profit helps disadvantaged kids in South Harlem. The center wants to incorporate rescue dogs into its program, but funding for the project has been denied by Max’s charitable foundation. Hoping to capitalize on her past friendship, Emily meets with Max hoping he will reconsider.
As always, Nancy Herkness has written likeable characters, both main and secondary. She manages to bring passion and emotion to Second to None. I would suggest having a tissue handy. Overall, I enjoyed the story but not as much as her previous books. My biggest problem was that Emily had no problem having feelings for and sleeping with Max, who was friends with her deceased husband years before. At no time in the past did she have romantic feelings or thoughts about him. I would have liked to have seen her struggle with her attraction instead of just acting on it so quickly. Regardless, I’m looking forward to this series. I just hope when it comes to the dogs, I don’t end up crying ugly tears.
**Received a copy from the publisher and reviewed voluntarily.**
Seven years ago, Emily Wade was married to the love of her life, had a toddler, and was enjoying life as a military wife. Her husband Jake was a US Marine Captain. He spent six months testing and working with Max Varela on a body armor for soldiers. The two spent a lot of time together, with Jake often inviting Max over for dinner. As a result, Max and Emily became friends. But once testing was complete, Max severed any and all ties with the couple.
Three years ago, Emily and her daughter Izzy’s lives were turned upside down, when Jake was killed during a mission. Emily relocated from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina to Harlem, New York. Since then, Emily has worked for the Carver Center as its director. The non-profit helps disadvantaged kids in South Harlem. The center wants to incorporate rescue dogs into its program, but funding for the project has been denied by Max’s charitable foundation. Hoping to capitalize on her past friendship, Emily meets with Max hoping he will reconsider.
As always, Nancy Herkness has written likeable characters, both main and secondary. She manages to bring passion and emotion to Second to None. I would suggest having a tissue handy. Overall, I enjoyed the story but not as much as her previous books. My biggest problem was that Emily had no problem having feelings for and sleeping with Max, who was friends with her deceased husband years before. At no time in the past did she have romantic feelings or thoughts about him. I would have liked to have seen her struggle with her attraction instead of just acting on it so quickly. Regardless, I’m looking forward to this series. I just hope when it comes to the dogs, I don’t end up crying ugly tears.
**Received a copy from the publisher and reviewed voluntarily.**
February 18, 2021
This was a sweet, sexy romance of second chances. Max and Emily met 7 years ago when Max had worked with Emily's husband. Max had been attracted to Emily and moved away as he knew she loved her husband. Now Emily is a widow and needs Max's help to fund her shelter for children at risk. Lovely characters and a complete story line in this quick read.
September 10, 2017
Sweet and tender short story of forbidden love and second chances told in the slightly formal writing style that Nancy Herkness is known for.
I liked it.
I liked it.
September 13, 2017
Max Varela has just sold his company and made himself a billionaire when a woman busts through the door to his office demanding to speak with him. After a moment, he realizes it is the wife of a friend from his past. He had developed feelings for her and therefore severed all contact with them. She is even more beautiful than he remembers.
Emily Wade lost her husband 2 years ago and her surrogate Aunt last year. She is raising her daughter alone. She is the director of Carver Center, an after school program for disadvantaged kids, 8 - 13, in South Harlem. She applied to Max’s Foundation for funding and was denied. In a last desperate attempt to get the funds, she decides to try to use their past association to get it pushed through.
I wasn’t a big fan of Max. He was stiff, formal and standoffish. I get that he was supposed to be a highly intelligent science geek with not the greatest social skills, but it still didn’t work for me. He used his money to buy his way into Emily’s life. I didn’t feel their connection. It all felt contrived to me.
I have read a couple of full length books by this author and enjoyed them, so I decided to try this very short story. It was disappointing. The characters needed more background and the story more developed.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
Emily Wade lost her husband 2 years ago and her surrogate Aunt last year. She is raising her daughter alone. She is the director of Carver Center, an after school program for disadvantaged kids, 8 - 13, in South Harlem. She applied to Max’s Foundation for funding and was denied. In a last desperate attempt to get the funds, she decides to try to use their past association to get it pushed through.
I wasn’t a big fan of Max. He was stiff, formal and standoffish. I get that he was supposed to be a highly intelligent science geek with not the greatest social skills, but it still didn’t work for me. He used his money to buy his way into Emily’s life. I didn’t feel their connection. It all felt contrived to me.
I have read a couple of full length books by this author and enjoyed them, so I decided to try this very short story. It was disappointing. The characters needed more background and the story more developed.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher.
July 7, 2024
“… I love you. Not just six days’ worth, but for seven years.”
I’m wracking my brains trying to think of the best way to describe Second to None, the holiday novella from Nancy Herkness. Here’s what I have so far:
Warm. Sexy. Sweet. Likeable.
They’re such lackluster words for a novella that was very enjoyable. A second chance romance—of a kind—and featuring one of Ms. Herkness’ signature billionaires, this quick read was pretty close to unputdownable.
Max and Emily have an easy chemistry. (Heh, pun—Max is a chemist, after all.) Add to that an encompassing feel of community, a little dog in need of BIG love, some needy and lovable kids, and a bittersweet set-up that allows this couple to find and fall for each other, seven years on, and you have a vivid and heartfelt read.
As is often the case with novella-length reads, I would have loved Second to None to be a little longer—to help build on the beautiful foundation Ms. Herkness gave Max and Emily—but nonetheless, this book definitely left a smile on my face and a deep anticipation for a Second Glance at this new series.
“This is where I want to be,” he said. “You are my home.”
~ 4.5 Mario STARS ~
I’m wracking my brains trying to think of the best way to describe Second to None, the holiday novella from Nancy Herkness. Here’s what I have so far:
Warm. Sexy. Sweet. Likeable.
They’re such lackluster words for a novella that was very enjoyable. A second chance romance—of a kind—and featuring one of Ms. Herkness’ signature billionaires, this quick read was pretty close to unputdownable.
Max and Emily have an easy chemistry. (Heh, pun—Max is a chemist, after all.) Add to that an encompassing feel of community, a little dog in need of BIG love, some needy and lovable kids, and a bittersweet set-up that allows this couple to find and fall for each other, seven years on, and you have a vivid and heartfelt read.
As is often the case with novella-length reads, I would have loved Second to None to be a little longer—to help build on the beautiful foundation Ms. Herkness gave Max and Emily—but nonetheless, this book definitely left a smile on my face and a deep anticipation for a Second Glance at this new series.
“This is where I want to be,” he said. “You are my home.”
~ 4.5 Mario STARS ~
April 12, 2022
Audio review. This was a quick, cute story about a second chance at love.
September 11, 2017
Originally posted on lampshadereader.com
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Nancy Herkness’s books have somehow found their way unto my “must reads” list. Second to None captured all of the things that I look for in a romance. While this one tugged at my heartstrings more times than I can count, it also fogged up my Kindle with the sexiness.
This was so much more than a romance to me. There were other elements that really made this a good read for me. The underprivileged children and the program that Emily is trying to put together really elevated the story. It was amazing how much story and emotions were jammed packed into this novella. I felt that it really encompassed everything crucial in a regular novel, but condensed it into a sweet little package. While I think Emily’s and Max’s romance was sizzling, I really think Diego stole the show. He was one of the children that was present in this story. It was his love for dogs that really clinched it for me.
I teared up big time. Not only was I worried but I could have totally become heartbroken for Diego.
Oh my God, this kid. I just wanted to hug him.
I kind of wanted to hug Max as well. He really did think money could buy everything.
Poor sad Max, so I was routing for both him and Emily the whole way too. It was one of those romances where they both had to figure themselves out before finding their happily ever after.
This story got me into the Christmas mood way too early, but I think it’s worth the read anytime during the year. My emotions ran rampant and I was invested in every character.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Nancy Herkness’s books have somehow found their way unto my “must reads” list. Second to None captured all of the things that I look for in a romance. While this one tugged at my heartstrings more times than I can count, it also fogged up my Kindle with the sexiness.
This was so much more than a romance to me. There were other elements that really made this a good read for me. The underprivileged children and the program that Emily is trying to put together really elevated the story. It was amazing how much story and emotions were jammed packed into this novella. I felt that it really encompassed everything crucial in a regular novel, but condensed it into a sweet little package. While I think Emily’s and Max’s romance was sizzling, I really think Diego stole the show. He was one of the children that was present in this story. It was his love for dogs that really clinched it for me.
I teared up big time. Not only was I worried but I could have totally become heartbroken for Diego.
Tears streaked silently down Diego’s cheeks. "I can help him fight. He needs to know that someone wants him to live. Ask the doc to let me see him."
Oh my God, this kid. I just wanted to hug him.
I kind of wanted to hug Max as well. He really did think money could buy everything.
He’d made millions...no, billions of dollars since then. And it was doing him absolutely no good in this situation. So what the hell had been the point?
He’d done it to try to ward off the emptiness.
Poor sad Max, so I was routing for both him and Emily the whole way too. It was one of those romances where they both had to figure themselves out before finding their happily ever after.
This story got me into the Christmas mood way too early, but I think it’s worth the read anytime during the year. My emotions ran rampant and I was invested in every character.
“I love you. Not just six days’ worth, but for seven years."
September 10, 2017
Nancy Herkness does it again with this sexy, heartwarming novella about second chances.
Emily needs help - her children/dog center in the heart of Harlem is on the verge of losing its funding and she needs the money to keep it up and running sooner rather than later. She turns to the 1 person she thinks that an help her Max Verala a billionaire chemist that worked with her husband years before on a project for the military. Since then Emily has lost her husband and Max has made it rich selling off the rights to body armor that her husband helped test all those years ago. A single mom Emily is just trying to survive - all she has is her daughter, the center and her kids and dogs at the center. What she doesn't know is the reason Max stayed away is that he was falling for her but out of respect for her and her family Max knew he had to walk away and never look back and now she needs his help.
Max knew that he could never act on his feelings for Emily but when she bursts into his office out of the blue he knows that he has to help her and he knows that the feelings are still there. Now things are different Emily is on her own but Max is supposed to be leaving New York to run his own lab but the feelings are growing quickly and after an amazing night together how can Max stay away?
I absolutely love Nancy Herkness's billionaire romances stories and this one is wonderful. She gives both Emily and Max such vulnerability and honesty you as the reader can't help falling in love with them. The history that is shared between them is well explained in the form of the stories they tell Emily's daughter a great way to honor the characters without having flashbacks. I also liked the secondary characters on both sides especially Emily's daughter and of course the dogs that we meet throughout the story.
All in all I recommend Second to None and I can't wait to see what is coming up next in this new series!
Emily needs help - her children/dog center in the heart of Harlem is on the verge of losing its funding and she needs the money to keep it up and running sooner rather than later. She turns to the 1 person she thinks that an help her Max Verala a billionaire chemist that worked with her husband years before on a project for the military. Since then Emily has lost her husband and Max has made it rich selling off the rights to body armor that her husband helped test all those years ago. A single mom Emily is just trying to survive - all she has is her daughter, the center and her kids and dogs at the center. What she doesn't know is the reason Max stayed away is that he was falling for her but out of respect for her and her family Max knew he had to walk away and never look back and now she needs his help.
Max knew that he could never act on his feelings for Emily but when she bursts into his office out of the blue he knows that he has to help her and he knows that the feelings are still there. Now things are different Emily is on her own but Max is supposed to be leaving New York to run his own lab but the feelings are growing quickly and after an amazing night together how can Max stay away?
I absolutely love Nancy Herkness's billionaire romances stories and this one is wonderful. She gives both Emily and Max such vulnerability and honesty you as the reader can't help falling in love with them. The history that is shared between them is well explained in the form of the stories they tell Emily's daughter a great way to honor the characters without having flashbacks. I also liked the secondary characters on both sides especially Emily's daughter and of course the dogs that we meet throughout the story.
All in all I recommend Second to None and I can't wait to see what is coming up next in this new series!
September 8, 2017
An Inspiring and Endearing Start to a New Series
A winning combo…that is if you like vulnerable but rich and powerful heroes who need love, strong and independent heroines who have love to give, cute and smart kids, pies, and rescue puppies.
Nancy Herkness grabs you from the first scene, a reunion meet, to plunge you into the story of unrequited love and all that life has thrown at two characters in those intervening years. In typical Herkness fashion, her descriptions pull you deep into the world of not only the hero and heroine’s lives, but through her portrayal of a cast of secondary characters, and one lucky rescue dog.
Max Varela is a self-made man who has everything, except Emily Wade, a woman he has loved from afar. Add to that, his guilt over his love for a good friend’s wife, enough to make him isolate himself from the couple all these years. As the story opens, Max finds out all he has missed in this widow’s life. As Max and Emily reconnect, they help each other out in ways each never imagined. Two wounded souls, both existing in different social and professional worlds, working together to save puppies and kids, and in the end saving each other through hard fought-for love.
[Note: for the first two weeks of sales plus preorders, fifty cents per book purchased will be donated to Frankie’s Friends, an organization providing low-cost veterinary services to cats and dogs.]
This reviewer cannot wait to read the rest of the Second Glances series, featuring billionaires with heart. Although I will see Second to None in my e-reader on release day, I was given a pre-release copy for an unbiased review.
A winning combo…that is if you like vulnerable but rich and powerful heroes who need love, strong and independent heroines who have love to give, cute and smart kids, pies, and rescue puppies.
Nancy Herkness grabs you from the first scene, a reunion meet, to plunge you into the story of unrequited love and all that life has thrown at two characters in those intervening years. In typical Herkness fashion, her descriptions pull you deep into the world of not only the hero and heroine’s lives, but through her portrayal of a cast of secondary characters, and one lucky rescue dog.
Max Varela is a self-made man who has everything, except Emily Wade, a woman he has loved from afar. Add to that, his guilt over his love for a good friend’s wife, enough to make him isolate himself from the couple all these years. As the story opens, Max finds out all he has missed in this widow’s life. As Max and Emily reconnect, they help each other out in ways each never imagined. Two wounded souls, both existing in different social and professional worlds, working together to save puppies and kids, and in the end saving each other through hard fought-for love.
[Note: for the first two weeks of sales plus preorders, fifty cents per book purchased will be donated to Frankie’s Friends, an organization providing low-cost veterinary services to cats and dogs.]
This reviewer cannot wait to read the rest of the Second Glances series, featuring billionaires with heart. Although I will see Second to None in my e-reader on release day, I was given a pre-release copy for an unbiased review.
September 13, 2017
I enjoyed this story, it was really well written. The author gave a credible reason why the guy was a billionaire, we saw some of the trappings of his wealth. There are too many authors who use billionaires just to jump on the trope but don't make it credible.
I thought this was a really heartwarming tale of a second chance romance - Max fell in love with Emily while she was married to Jake, his friend. He cut all ties because of his feelings for her. When she pushes her way back into his life he finds that the feelings didn't lie, they had just lain dormant for 7 years.
My main problem with this story was Emily, I would have like to seen more about what she was thinking, their backstory. I didn't like that she judged Max for not liking dogs and also she didn't really show any growth when
I thought this was a really heartwarming tale of a second chance romance - Max fell in love with Emily while she was married to Jake, his friend. He cut all ties because of his feelings for her. When she pushes her way back into his life he finds that the feelings didn't lie, they had just lain dormant for 7 years.
My main problem with this story was Emily, I would have like to seen more about what she was thinking, their backstory. I didn't like that she judged Max for not liking dogs and also she didn't really show any growth when
September 10, 2017
I was asked by the author for an honest review.
Max Varela is a billionaire chemist. He has decided to sell his company and leave New York for good! That is until Emily Wade storms into his help in funding her program that helps disadvantage kids and shelter dogs. Seven years ago, Max had fallen in love with Emily when she was married to another man. To fight the unbidden attraction, he cut off all contact. Max has never forgotten her.
When Emily's husband died, she poured her heart and soul into the after-school care center. When seeing Max reawakens the pain of loss, but it also brings unexpected hope for the future. They start a passionate affair that seems destined for a fairy-tale ending. That is until he reveals that he's moving Chicago in a few weeks. He wants Emily and her daughter to go with him.
I love Nancy Herkness's books. This one was no exception. This book is well written and the characters are well developed. I can't wait for the next book!
Max Varela is a billionaire chemist. He has decided to sell his company and leave New York for good! That is until Emily Wade storms into his help in funding her program that helps disadvantage kids and shelter dogs. Seven years ago, Max had fallen in love with Emily when she was married to another man. To fight the unbidden attraction, he cut off all contact. Max has never forgotten her.
When Emily's husband died, she poured her heart and soul into the after-school care center. When seeing Max reawakens the pain of loss, but it also brings unexpected hope for the future. They start a passionate affair that seems destined for a fairy-tale ending. That is until he reveals that he's moving Chicago in a few weeks. He wants Emily and her daughter to go with him.
I love Nancy Herkness's books. This one was no exception. This book is well written and the characters are well developed. I can't wait for the next book!
September 16, 2017
I'm a new reader to Ms. Harkness' works and after this I'll definitely be looking into her more. Second to None is a quick read perfect for readers on the go. The novella tells the story of Emily and Max, two former friends who've lost touch thrown back together through need. However, this isn't the typical Second Chance Romance or Friends-to-Lovers fare. Emily is the widow of one of Max's friends and Max deliberately distanced himself from Emily because he didn't want to act upon his feelings. While Emily liked Max as a friend, she never saw him as romance material until she needed his help to save the charity she's working for.
I liked that this wasn't typical. The right beats were there. But the tropes were played with just enough to feel fresh and new. I loved Emily's daughter, Izzy. She was a neat and fun kid with just the right amount of innocence and wisdom. Emily herself was a fun character. She wasn't afraid to admit her weaknesses but she also wasn't willing to be bulldozed. I loved that she stuck to her guns especially in the face of some pretty daunting odds. I liked aspects of Max. I liked his science background and his understanding of himself.
What I didn't like was that Max fell into the trope of "throwing money at the problems until it goes away' which is often overused in billionaire romances. I also wasn't overly fond of a few of the dog related events which happened and I had a few concerns about "white savior" in regards to the center.
However the good definitely outweighed the bad and I walked away satisfied with the story. I'll definitely be on the look out for more from the author.
***I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley***
I liked that this wasn't typical. The right beats were there. But the tropes were played with just enough to feel fresh and new. I loved Emily's daughter, Izzy. She was a neat and fun kid with just the right amount of innocence and wisdom. Emily herself was a fun character. She wasn't afraid to admit her weaknesses but she also wasn't willing to be bulldozed. I loved that she stuck to her guns especially in the face of some pretty daunting odds. I liked aspects of Max. I liked his science background and his understanding of himself.
What I didn't like was that Max fell into the trope of "throwing money at the problems until it goes away' which is often overused in billionaire romances. I also wasn't overly fond of a few of the dog related events which happened and I had a few concerns about "white savior" in regards to the center.
However the good definitely outweighed the bad and I walked away satisfied with the story. I'll definitely be on the look out for more from the author.
***I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley***
September 25, 2017
Though I liked it, I honestly found this story quite odd. First and foremost it starts off with Emily looking for funding for a children's center to expand and be able to have dogs and a garden - to me it just wasn't a big enough cause for a half million dollars to need to be raised. Getting past that when Emily goes to a man from her past for help, Max comes to take a tour of the children's center to decide about funding. Emily's personal funds are also tight and she reveals her 9 year olds left home with a sitter while she's at work, I find it odd that working at a children's center she didn't bring her daughter to work with her to save money. Then she has one of the children living at the center because his parents kicked him out but she's able to text this kid, I don't see a parent having kicked their child out still paying for a phone.
Now, though I found the above things, and a few other quirks, inconsistent and a bit odd I did still like the story and characters. Max is brilliant and generous and the perfect match for Emily's huge heart, I just love the two together. I'll be keeping an eye out for more from this series so I can see where the author takes it next.
Read and reviewed for Wicked Reads.
Now, though I found the above things, and a few other quirks, inconsistent and a bit odd I did still like the story and characters. Max is brilliant and generous and the perfect match for Emily's huge heart, I just love the two together. I'll be keeping an eye out for more from this series so I can see where the author takes it next.
Read and reviewed for Wicked Reads.
September 12, 2017
Holy crap not only is the cover hot but the book was just as good.
I was at first expecting a stuffy book based on what they characters did, but this exceeded my expectations. It is a book that shows if you put others first you will most certainly be rewarded. It also pulls at your heart strings. I felt I was right there in the story and the way the book was written it was beautifully put together.
** I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
I was at first expecting a stuffy book based on what they characters did, but this exceeded my expectations. It is a book that shows if you put others first you will most certainly be rewarded. It also pulls at your heart strings. I felt I was right there in the story and the way the book was written it was beautifully put together.
** I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
August 20, 2017
I am voluntarily reviewing this arc of this book. They was a very heartwarming book. She goes to him for help with one of his foundation. She runs a place for kids to go to when they need help or to be safe. She just lost her husband while he was away on a mission. She has a daughter who he has met years ago he has known her for years. I enjoyed reading this book
September 17, 2017
For me, this book brought back all the fond memories of the Harlequin and Silhouette serials I cut my teeth on when I was in high school and had just "discovered" contemporary romance. A nice, sweet (slightly steamy) story that was low on drama. Very nice for a Sunday afternoon.
August 24, 2017
Really good novella, highly recommend it! :)
February 6, 2021
Great
New to me author and I’ll certainly be reading more. Good story, easy to read and likeable characters. Definitely one to recommend.
New to me author and I’ll certainly be reading more. Good story, easy to read and likeable characters. Definitely one to recommend.
August 26, 2017
This is the type of novella you wish was longer because it's such an enjoyable read. The hero billionaire is more of a beta than an alpha, which is a nice change of pace from the usual billionaire hero romances. Max is a chemist who is all work and no play. His social skills are lacking, but that changes when he meets the generous and very kind single mother heroine, Emily. Emily runs a non-profit afterschool facility for teens. She wants to expand programs that include using dogs to help the teens and children find self-worth and responsibility. Her funding has dried up, and to expand this new program, including a bigger property, she needs to find money. She turns to Max, who she once knew when her military husband was still alive. What she didn't know was that Max had strong feelings for her, but kept them a secret out of respect for her husband and their marriage. Now that Emily has re-entered his life, and is a widow, perhaps Max can prove to Emily he's worthy of heart even though her heart still rests with her deceased husband.
Second to None is a feel good romance. There's a cute dog and cute kids, including a Prince Charming type hero who adores the heroine. There's not much angst here other than Max trying to figure out a way to be with Emily without using his fortune to push her into a relationship with her. He's beyond smitten with Emily, and watching him court her is one reason to read this latest by Nancy Herkness.
A feel good romance that will push aside the blues. Max and Emily may just be one of my favorite romance couples of 2017!
Second to None is a feel good romance. There's a cute dog and cute kids, including a Prince Charming type hero who adores the heroine. There's not much angst here other than Max trying to figure out a way to be with Emily without using his fortune to push her into a relationship with her. He's beyond smitten with Emily, and watching him court her is one reason to read this latest by Nancy Herkness.
A feel good romance that will push aside the blues. Max and Emily may just be one of my favorite romance couples of 2017!
September 2, 2017
I first came to know of Nancy Herkness through her Wager of the Hearts series, a masterful collection of novels about hard-won love. In many respects this book reminds me of those. Its the story of Max and Emily. Max fell for Emily many years ago, but at the time she was married. When they meet again she’s been widowed. She’s lost her husband and he lost a close friend, one that he feels he betrayed by having feelings towards Emily.
How do they find love? This is that story. It’s also a story about the lack of love that some children face and the role that pets can play in all our lives, but especially as companions to those who humans have treated appallingly. Its a novella but as usual Herkness makes it rich and detailed, and its easy to understand and fall in love with the characters. She’s an amazing writer and this is a great introduction to her books.
How do they find love? This is that story. It’s also a story about the lack of love that some children face and the role that pets can play in all our lives, but especially as companions to those who humans have treated appallingly. Its a novella but as usual Herkness makes it rich and detailed, and its easy to understand and fall in love with the characters. She’s an amazing writer and this is a great introduction to her books.
September 15, 2017
Second to None (Second Glances 0.5) by Nancy Herkness
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Killed in action
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Emily lost her husband to the war and is trying to keep things the same for herself and her daughter, Izzy.
Emily is trying to get her K-9 after school program off the ground. However, investors believe that while the program has merit, she is too much of a risk. She is desperate and goes to the one person who could help her - A friend who lost touch after he moved away.
Max is as the top of his field. He is successful and has so much money. What he doesn't have is Emily. He grew attached years ago when he was working with Emily's husband, Jake and he ran away in order to maintain the relationship that he had formed with Jake and Emily.
Max and Emily reconnect, but work threatens to tear them apart again. How much sacrifice is Emily going to have to suffer and what will Max do when his relationship is jeopardizes again?
Izzy is adorable and I love how resilient she is throughout the story.
This is a quick story about finding love again. I hope that we do get to see more in to this story, as I felt that the ending was somewhat unfinished.
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Killed in action
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Emily lost her husband to the war and is trying to keep things the same for herself and her daughter, Izzy.
Emily is trying to get her K-9 after school program off the ground. However, investors believe that while the program has merit, she is too much of a risk. She is desperate and goes to the one person who could help her - A friend who lost touch after he moved away.
Max is as the top of his field. He is successful and has so much money. What he doesn't have is Emily. He grew attached years ago when he was working with Emily's husband, Jake and he ran away in order to maintain the relationship that he had formed with Jake and Emily.
Max and Emily reconnect, but work threatens to tear them apart again. How much sacrifice is Emily going to have to suffer and what will Max do when his relationship is jeopardizes again?
Izzy is adorable and I love how resilient she is throughout the story.
This is a quick story about finding love again. I hope that we do get to see more in to this story, as I felt that the ending was somewhat unfinished.
April 10, 2021
If you've already read the series, then you know the ending. The journey to get there was sad, heart-warming, sexy, and satisfying. Always nice to see a later-in-life love story.
January 14, 2019
1.5 Stars
Not sure how I feel about this novella.
While on one hand I admired Max for not doing anything about his feelings for Emily while Jake was still alive, now that he has his second chance, I can’t quite believe that “getting” Emily to fall in love with him would happen that fast. I couldn’t help but wonder at Emily’s behavior at times too. But most of all, IMO, Jake’s ghost/presence loomed too large (he was “there” after the first time they had sex!).... so I don’t know if I buy into the love. Lust, yes, for sure (the sex scenes are so detailed!) But sorry, I just wasn’t feeling the love between these two.
It was all too neat and easy and fast. Sometimes, esp given the backgrounds of the MC’s, I want there to be some sort of angst and drama.
Not sure how I feel about this novella.
While on one hand I admired Max for not doing anything about his feelings for Emily while Jake was still alive, now that he has his second chance, I can’t quite believe that “getting” Emily to fall in love with him would happen that fast. I couldn’t help but wonder at Emily’s behavior at times too. But most of all, IMO, Jake’s ghost/presence loomed too large (he was “there” after the first time they had sex!).... so I don’t know if I buy into the love. Lust, yes, for sure (the sex scenes are so detailed!) But sorry, I just wasn’t feeling the love between these two.
It was all too neat and easy and fast. Sometimes, esp given the backgrounds of the MC’s, I want there to be some sort of angst and drama.
September 12, 2017
There is so much heart packed into this novella. Ms. Herkness writes a deep love story filled with all the feels. Expect to laugh, cry, and think while reading Max and Emily's love story. high heat love scene.
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