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Second Chances #2
La boucle est bouclée
Ce qui est drôle avec les cercles, c’est que pour en tracer un, la courbe doit d’abord descendre avant de pouvoir remonter.
Robbie Jennings sait tout sur les hauts et les bas. Manipulé et abusé lorsqu’il était adolescent par ceux en qui il aurait dû avoir confiance, il avait presque renoncé à vivre. Puis quelqu’un est intervenu et lui a offert une deuxième chance. Robbie s’est accroché à cette bouée de sauvetage et s’est retrouvé avec une nouvelle famille qui voulait de lui... et un petit ami qui l’aimait.
Cependant, Robbie sait que les passages à vide peuvent anéantir un homme. Confronté à une succession de malheurs – une douloureuse voix du passé, la maladie d’un de ses proches, et une trahison déchirante – Robbie n’est pas certain de pouvoir refermer le cercle une fois de plus.
Sa nouvelle famille doit alors unir ses forces afin de lui démontrer que tous ensemble, ils pourront toujours boucler la boucle.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2016
6 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
T.A. Webb
32 books633 followersT.A. Webb is the writing name for the Mean Old Bear That Could. He's worked with people living with HIV/AIDS and with children in the foster care system for over twenty years, and took the smaller pay for the chance to make a difference for those who can't help themselves. After hours, he's the proud single papa of two (now three) rescue dogs, was born and raised in Atlanta, where he still lives, and is a pretty darned good country cook.
His sister taught him to read when he was four, and he tore his way through the local library over the next few years. Always wanting more, he snuck a copy of The Exorcist under his parents' house to read when he was eleven and scared the bejesus out of himself. Thus began a love affair with books that skirt the edge, and when he discovered gay literature, he was hooked for life.
To reach him, please email AuthorTAWebb@aol.com, visit him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authortawebb orhttps://www.facebook.com/twebb7813, tweet him on Twitter @TomBearAtl, or visit him blog at www.tom-webb.blogspot.com.
His sister taught him to read when he was four, and he tore his way through the local library over the next few years. Always wanting more, he snuck a copy of The Exorcist under his parents' house to read when he was eleven and scared the bejesus out of himself. Thus began a love affair with books that skirt the edge, and when he discovered gay literature, he was hooked for life.
To reach him, please email AuthorTAWebb@aol.com, visit him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authortawebb orhttps://www.facebook.com/twebb7813, tweet him on Twitter @TomBearAtl, or visit him blog at www.tom-webb.blogspot.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
October 22, 2016
~4.5 stars~
This review was very hard for me to write, because this story embodies everything I normally avoid in romance: the focus is not only on the MCs, it is told from multiple POVs (although the main narrator is Robbie), and there is child sexual abuse.
BUT, this is T.A.Webb's come back, and I just can't stay away from his writing. Plus, Second Chances is one of my favorite books, so...here I am.
This is Robbie's journey to healing and self-acceptance. I will not spoil any plot points for you. But know, here be monsters.
This is not your typical romance. First and foremost, this story is about family. The family of Robbie's heart. The one that chose him, after his own people let him down. The things that Robbie had to endure as a kid....I knew from Second Chances that is was bad, but it was actually far worse than I thought.
Second, this story is about healing. Not the one that happens magically and off-page, no. This is done the hard (and real) way. Right when you think that the characters are getting a hang of things, there will be a relapse. People screw up. Robbie REALLY screwed up, but he's young and how can I blame him after all he's been through? And Jason REALLY screwed up, I don't have any excuses for him other than he's young too and hasn't been through Robbie's hell.
The whole Jennings clan is back. This is probably my favorite book family ever. Still messy, boisterous and unpretentious. They always have your back, no matter how bad you screwed up. And they never censor sex talk in their house! This story is about them too.
So, I have no way to explain why this book worked so well for me (and I don't care). Could be the author's ability to gut punch me with emotions. Or that, despite the darkness, it felt so warm and familiar. Or that it just felt...bigger than romance, you know? (And let me tell you that I'm a proud romance reader, and I value this genre a great deal)
And don't go thinking that the ending is not happy, because it really is. It is a strong HEA, all rainbows and sunshine and hope. But why, WHY did it have to get so ugly to get there, you ask? Well, like the author's note says...
~Review cross-posted on Gay Book Reviews.~
"Mark told me I was good, and that any family would be lucky to have me as their son. Some lies you want to believe so badly you can taste them. Even if it was only you that knew it was a lie. Mark meant it, but I knew better."
This review was very hard for me to write, because this story embodies everything I normally avoid in romance: the focus is not only on the MCs, it is told from multiple POVs (although the main narrator is Robbie), and there is child sexual abuse.
BUT, this is T.A.Webb's come back, and I just can't stay away from his writing. Plus, Second Chances is one of my favorite books, so...here I am.
This is Robbie's journey to healing and self-acceptance. I will not spoil any plot points for you. But know, here be monsters.
This is not your typical romance. First and foremost, this story is about family. The family of Robbie's heart. The one that chose him, after his own people let him down. The things that Robbie had to endure as a kid....I knew from Second Chances that is was bad, but it was actually far worse than I thought.
You stick around long enough, this whole fucking world will surprise you.” He nodded. “So plan to stay. Please. For you.”
I nodded. “For me.”
Second, this story is about healing. Not the one that happens magically and off-page, no. This is done the hard (and real) way. Right when you think that the characters are getting a hang of things, there will be a relapse. People screw up. Robbie REALLY screwed up, but he's young and how can I blame him after all he's been through? And Jason REALLY screwed up, I don't have any excuses for him other than he's young too and hasn't been through Robbie's hell.
The whole Jennings clan is back. This is probably my favorite book family ever. Still messy, boisterous and unpretentious. They always have your back, no matter how bad you screwed up. And they never censor sex talk in their house! This story is about them too.
"...It takes courage to love somebody. Giving your heart to someone means they can stomp it in the dirt and there’s nothing you can do about it. It means pain, and it means hurting, and it means no control. But it also means joy and love and being…cherished. No risk, no reward.”
So, I have no way to explain why this book worked so well for me (and I don't care). Could be the author's ability to gut punch me with emotions. Or that, despite the darkness, it felt so warm and familiar. Or that it just felt...bigger than romance, you know? (And let me tell you that I'm a proud romance reader, and I value this genre a great deal)
And don't go thinking that the ending is not happy, because it really is. It is a strong HEA, all rainbows and sunshine and hope. But why, WHY did it have to get so ugly to get there, you ask? Well, like the author's note says...
"...life is like that sometimes."
~Review cross-posted on Gay Book Reviews.~
Read
October 21, 2016Review originally posted at Sinfully.
4.5 stars
If you haven’t read Second Chances, stop what you’re doing and go read it right now. Seriously. I’ll be here…
While this technically could be read as a standalone story, it would work much better if it’s read after Second Chances as the whole cast is back and because Second Chances is just so good. Full Circle takes place during the approximately year-long gap between the last chapter and Epilogue of Second Chances and is Robbie’s story. If you don’t remember, Robbie is the teen that was fostered and subsequently adopted by Mark’s father. While the focus is on Robbie’s story the entire boisterous Jennings clan is back as are Antonio and his son Jason.
Second Chances is a favorite of mine. I’ve re-read it and it never fails to bring me to tears. Full Circle has more of a New Adult feel to it as Robbie and Jason are the main couple. It’s a bit darker as the majority of the story is told from Robbie’s POV. Robbie’s life before Hope House and meeting Mark was truly horrible and the details of that past are presented here for the first time when Robbie receives a letter from his father. Robbie is struggling with revealing that part of his life and his father’s current demands to his family, fearing that doing so will make them see him in a different, lesser light. He is also settling into his relationship with Jason and fears what his past would do to any possible future for them as a couple. When things go from bad to worse Robbie also has to deal with the aftermath of his present day impulsive decisions and the new scars they leave.
I knew from the first book that Robbie’s life was traumatic, but the true horror of what he went through is brought front and center here. Just when everything seemed to be going good with him and Jason and with life in general, his past comes back in the form of contact from his imprisoned father and his decision to visit the man. Robbie has his ups and downs after that, trying to remember that the family he has now will help him if he is honest with them and that Jason loves him. When he is finally honest with his family, they rally and things seem to be handled until one more day of even more bad news. Three strikes on one day break the fragile balance and make it impossible for him to cope and Robbie succumbs to old behaviors throwing the Jennings and Roberto clans into turmoil.
Robbie’s relationship with Jason is another cause of stress. Robbie has loved Jason since they met. Their relationship has evolved as they’ve grown and while Robbie knows he is gay and is in love with Jason, it’s not as cut and dried for Jason. Jason isn’t gay and has had an on and off relationship with Amy for years. While he is honest with Robbie that he has feelings towards both of them, he isn’t willing to commit to either of them until he is certain of his feelings. This is a source of stress for Robbie even after it seems Jason has come to a decision and chosen him. Jason is young, in his first year of college, and doesn’t always make good decisions. When that happens Robbie’s first instinct is that Jason is rejecting him and he tends to act first and ask questions later. There is always love there, but just like any other young couple, these two have to learn how to communicate.
The story isn’t all dark. How could it be with the foul mouthed, wise cracking, sex obsessed Jennings family playing a huge part in it. The story is broken into two parts and in between there is an “Interlude” where we get into the minds of not only Mark, but some of his siblings and his father. I loved the way Tom Webb used this part of the story to shed some new light on the least likable Jennings siblings. Knowing that Mark, Antonio, Jason, Patty and Dad always will be there is one thing, but Robbie finds an unexpected ally in the family who is a catalyst in Robbie learning to love himself and truly start healing from all the abuse that was inflicted upon him. There is also the growth of the relationship between Robbie and Jason from friends, to friends with a little more, to lovers who were meant to be.
Tom Webb’s stories always bring out strong emotions and mange to jerk the tears and this is another one where you’ll really feel right there in the midst of it all with the characters. Whether it’s Robbie and Jason’s coming of age tale, Antonio and Mark’s continued devotion to each other or the overall love of this great big family, you will relate to something in this story. There is plenty of angst and drama, but there is also so much unconditional love and acceptance and a feeling of family that shines the strongest in those quiet moments between Robbie and Dad or in the back and forth snarking and loving bickering between Robbie, Mark and Patty. This was a follow-up that was definitely worth the wait.
4.5 stars
If you haven’t read Second Chances, stop what you’re doing and go read it right now. Seriously. I’ll be here…
While this technically could be read as a standalone story, it would work much better if it’s read after Second Chances as the whole cast is back and because Second Chances is just so good. Full Circle takes place during the approximately year-long gap between the last chapter and Epilogue of Second Chances and is Robbie’s story. If you don’t remember, Robbie is the teen that was fostered and subsequently adopted by Mark’s father. While the focus is on Robbie’s story the entire boisterous Jennings clan is back as are Antonio and his son Jason.
Second Chances is a favorite of mine. I’ve re-read it and it never fails to bring me to tears. Full Circle has more of a New Adult feel to it as Robbie and Jason are the main couple. It’s a bit darker as the majority of the story is told from Robbie’s POV. Robbie’s life before Hope House and meeting Mark was truly horrible and the details of that past are presented here for the first time when Robbie receives a letter from his father. Robbie is struggling with revealing that part of his life and his father’s current demands to his family, fearing that doing so will make them see him in a different, lesser light. He is also settling into his relationship with Jason and fears what his past would do to any possible future for them as a couple. When things go from bad to worse Robbie also has to deal with the aftermath of his present day impulsive decisions and the new scars they leave.
I knew from the first book that Robbie’s life was traumatic, but the true horror of what he went through is brought front and center here. Just when everything seemed to be going good with him and Jason and with life in general, his past comes back in the form of contact from his imprisoned father and his decision to visit the man. Robbie has his ups and downs after that, trying to remember that the family he has now will help him if he is honest with them and that Jason loves him. When he is finally honest with his family, they rally and things seem to be handled until one more day of even more bad news. Three strikes on one day break the fragile balance and make it impossible for him to cope and Robbie succumbs to old behaviors throwing the Jennings and Roberto clans into turmoil.
Robbie’s relationship with Jason is another cause of stress. Robbie has loved Jason since they met. Their relationship has evolved as they’ve grown and while Robbie knows he is gay and is in love with Jason, it’s not as cut and dried for Jason. Jason isn’t gay and has had an on and off relationship with Amy for years. While he is honest with Robbie that he has feelings towards both of them, he isn’t willing to commit to either of them until he is certain of his feelings. This is a source of stress for Robbie even after it seems Jason has come to a decision and chosen him. Jason is young, in his first year of college, and doesn’t always make good decisions. When that happens Robbie’s first instinct is that Jason is rejecting him and he tends to act first and ask questions later. There is always love there, but just like any other young couple, these two have to learn how to communicate.
The story isn’t all dark. How could it be with the foul mouthed, wise cracking, sex obsessed Jennings family playing a huge part in it. The story is broken into two parts and in between there is an “Interlude” where we get into the minds of not only Mark, but some of his siblings and his father. I loved the way Tom Webb used this part of the story to shed some new light on the least likable Jennings siblings. Knowing that Mark, Antonio, Jason, Patty and Dad always will be there is one thing, but Robbie finds an unexpected ally in the family who is a catalyst in Robbie learning to love himself and truly start healing from all the abuse that was inflicted upon him. There is also the growth of the relationship between Robbie and Jason from friends, to friends with a little more, to lovers who were meant to be.
Tom Webb’s stories always bring out strong emotions and mange to jerk the tears and this is another one where you’ll really feel right there in the midst of it all with the characters. Whether it’s Robbie and Jason’s coming of age tale, Antonio and Mark’s continued devotion to each other or the overall love of this great big family, you will relate to something in this story. There is plenty of angst and drama, but there is also so much unconditional love and acceptance and a feeling of family that shines the strongest in those quiet moments between Robbie and Dad or in the back and forth snarking and loving bickering between Robbie, Mark and Patty. This was a follow-up that was definitely worth the wait.
October 19, 2016
I have to admit I've been putting off writing this review.
Why? Well, for two reasons.
1. I love TA Webb
2. 3-3.5 Star reviews are the HARDEST to write. You can't only focus on the positive, and instead, have to explain why it wasn't a 5 Star read. I hate that.
TA Webb's Second Chances and Let's Hear It For The Boy are among my favorite books, and Full Circle (follow up to Second Chances) is a book I've been waiting on for a few years. I was ecstatic when I saw it was being released. We were finally getting Robbie's story whom we met in book 1. I was beyond ready to hear his voice.
While it wasn't a complete hit for me, there were some things that I enjoyed:
1. Robbie. I loved him in book 1 and loved him even more here. He was kind and gentle despite all the ugliness life had dealt him.
2. It was also fun seeing The Jennings Gang.
3. And the book did have a lovely ending.
4. I also give the story kudos for making me cry. ;)
But two things didn't work for me:
1. I really, really, really, really wanted the story to begin from the moment that Robbie and Jason first met. We knew that they'd had this immediate connection and I wanted to be a part of that moment. I wanted to see their friendship and feelings for each other grow.
2. Jason. I understood that he was confused, but he needed to back off from Robbie and stop hurting him. He knew everything that Robbie had been through in his life, so I found his actions infuriating. Part of it is probably that I felt protective of Robbie. I don't know.
As far as this being book 2- can it be read as a standalone? I don't think so. For best enjoyment, I think Second Chances should be read first.
All-in-all, I'm giving this one 3.5 Stars. In the end, I did enjoy it, and I would recommend it to fans of the author and the series. I think I just wanted something a little different.
Why? Well, for two reasons.
1. I love TA Webb
2. 3-3.5 Star reviews are the HARDEST to write. You can't only focus on the positive, and instead, have to explain why it wasn't a 5 Star read. I hate that.
TA Webb's Second Chances and Let's Hear It For The Boy are among my favorite books, and Full Circle (follow up to Second Chances) is a book I've been waiting on for a few years. I was ecstatic when I saw it was being released. We were finally getting Robbie's story whom we met in book 1. I was beyond ready to hear his voice.
While it wasn't a complete hit for me, there were some things that I enjoyed:
1. Robbie. I loved him in book 1 and loved him even more here. He was kind and gentle despite all the ugliness life had dealt him.
2. It was also fun seeing The Jennings Gang.
3. And the book did have a lovely ending.
4. I also give the story kudos for making me cry. ;)
But two things didn't work for me:
1. I really, really, really, really wanted the story to begin from the moment that Robbie and Jason first met. We knew that they'd had this immediate connection and I wanted to be a part of that moment. I wanted to see their friendship and feelings for each other grow.
2. Jason. I understood that he was confused, but he needed to back off from Robbie and stop hurting him. He knew everything that Robbie had been through in his life, so I found his actions infuriating. Part of it is probably that I felt protective of Robbie. I don't know.
As far as this being book 2- can it be read as a standalone? I don't think so. For best enjoyment, I think Second Chances should be read first.
All-in-all, I'm giving this one 3.5 Stars. In the end, I did enjoy it, and I would recommend it to fans of the author and the series. I think I just wanted something a little different.
October 6, 2024
✰ 2.25 stars ✰
“The funny thing about circles is that, to draw one, the curve must go down before it can go up again.”
And for Robbie Jenning's life to truly reach Full Circle, he really had to hit rock-bottom before he could finally make it back to the top again. And it was rough pickings on all corners - sides - points - hard to say, considering it is a circle, but he made it through those tough channels, because of the tough love his adoptive family, nay, his only family gave him. 🤍🤍 'You will always be my son, and I will beat the living fuck out of anyone who ever tries to take you away from me again.' he Southern hospitality nature that Mark's family has given him made me slightly wary of just how much tough love is necessary for words to reach a broken and wounded and stubborn heart, but their own perseverance through the difficult trials they themselves have survived, made it easier for them to be there for Robbie. 🫂🫂
“Love was more powerful than hate, and if you let it, it could heal many ills.”
This was an odd and strange conclusion to a story of Second Chances - one in which the second chances, while fitting, took a very dark and painful path to eventually lead to happiness. I am happy that Robbie found his happiness - that his life came full circle with those who loved him deeply. But, I felt that something was off with the writing this time around; it lacked feeling and emotion. I'm not denying that his father and his brother and his boyfriend loved him, but I wasn't feeling the love in their actions or their words. 🤨 Maybe it's because I'm not so much a fan of family tough love - tough love that hinders more on the self-righteous tone that dictates 'boy, you listen to me, I've lived life and I know what's best for you, so quit your whining and complaining and man up'. I know, they have his best intentions at heart, really I do - I just did not like how it played out. 🙍🏻♀️
At times, I did feel like it was too much; how much pain and anguish and abuse can you have one character endure before you let them live the light. Robbie really does go through the wringer here - in more ways that I thought weren't entirely fair or justified. 'I was weak, and now I was broken.' 🥺 But, his heart was always strong - always caring - always believing that his intentions were for the protection of his family. From his father, to his boyfriend, to his own personal demons - it's an onslaught of pain and guilt and trauma that I lost heart in it - I mean, should I not care for him more if he is facing so much? But, what I think bothered me was not only the way in which each episode hurt him, but how it never seemed like he was thinking straight that could help him see right from wrong? How the hasty actions and eventual end were never really in his favor, and that his own feelings weren't significant.. 😒
“Caring for someone, loving them…that’s not weakness. It takes courage to love somebody. Giving your heart to someone means they can stomp it in the dirt and there’s nothing you can do about it. It means pain, and it means hurting, and it means no control. But it also means joy and love and being…cherished. No risk, no reward.”
Adding to these impending troubles is Mark's own physical struggles that impact their family and once again make them realize the importance of treasuring each other and the time they have together. To have so much sadness and strife hit all in one go was not as impactful as it could have been. It did not help either that I noticed numerous typos and inconsistencies in the writing that made it harder for me. 😕 I never particularly warmed up to any of Mark and Robbie's siblings, so I don't know why it was necessary to include their perspectives in the Interludes that interrupted Robbie's narrative, but the one family member I was still very fond of was their father. 👍🏻👍🏻 A man who loved unconditionally and respectfully - one who was there for both his sons and his family - a man who proved to be a true head of their rather crazy, if not bull-headed family. When Robbie was insecure about his scars - the trauma and shame that he tries to hide - the reassuring way his father heals his wounded heart - 'they can’t see the brave, loving boy underneath. Scars aren’t ugly. Hate is ugly. Cruelty is ugly. Nothing about you is ugly' - was a really beautiful moment. 🥺
Robbie and Jason hit a rocky stage, which I never thought they would, considering they do end up walking down the aisle together. It was a hard-fought struggle - laced with betrayal, doubt, and distrust, and they both made some questionable choices that made it harder for them to prove their love was worth fighting for. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 But I was glad that they both realized their mistakes and apologized for it. It felt like a more gradual growth, one in which they were able to take the next stage in their relationship in a healthy and hopeful manner. Their nuptials and their vows were especially sweet, if not a bit too cheesy, but they were each other's lobsters - 'I will always put you first, and I will respect and love you forever.' 🥹 I guess, for someone like Robbie who has lived the worst, it is hard for him to believe that he could have the best - 'and how the circle kept spinning, only the players changed seats.' And when even the best gets damaged - it becomes difficult to believe that the best can be fixed to become even better. And that he doesn't have to do it alone; the sad fact is that as much as I realize that for him - I just could not appreciate how he eventually reached that destination - I just couldn't. 😞
“The moment was one I’d never forget, standing there with the family of my heart, surrounded with unconditional love. All those years ago, I never thought I’d have this second chance, and now the circle was complete.”
So, yeah, not the best of conclusions - a lot of tears and feels and emotions, which unfortunately never hit me hard enough. 🤷🏻♀️ Maybe it was because of how family-oriented it was, maybe it was because how it felt too unnecessarily angsty for me to believe in, maybe it was just that I wanted Robbie to change and grow on his own - not where he needs others to show him that he was not thinking straight and that he has people in his corner now who love and care for him - that with 'the bad times make me appreciate the good times even more.' 😔
“The funny thing about circles is that, to draw one, the curve must go down before it can go up again.”
And for Robbie Jenning's life to truly reach Full Circle, he really had to hit rock-bottom before he could finally make it back to the top again. And it was rough pickings on all corners - sides - points - hard to say, considering it is a circle, but he made it through those tough channels, because of the tough love his adoptive family, nay, his only family gave him. 🤍🤍 'You will always be my son, and I will beat the living fuck out of anyone who ever tries to take you away from me again.' he Southern hospitality nature that Mark's family has given him made me slightly wary of just how much tough love is necessary for words to reach a broken and wounded and stubborn heart, but their own perseverance through the difficult trials they themselves have survived, made it easier for them to be there for Robbie. 🫂🫂
“Love was more powerful than hate, and if you let it, it could heal many ills.”
This was an odd and strange conclusion to a story of Second Chances - one in which the second chances, while fitting, took a very dark and painful path to eventually lead to happiness. I am happy that Robbie found his happiness - that his life came full circle with those who loved him deeply. But, I felt that something was off with the writing this time around; it lacked feeling and emotion. I'm not denying that his father and his brother and his boyfriend loved him, but I wasn't feeling the love in their actions or their words. 🤨 Maybe it's because I'm not so much a fan of family tough love - tough love that hinders more on the self-righteous tone that dictates 'boy, you listen to me, I've lived life and I know what's best for you, so quit your whining and complaining and man up'. I know, they have his best intentions at heart, really I do - I just did not like how it played out. 🙍🏻♀️
At times, I did feel like it was too much; how much pain and anguish and abuse can you have one character endure before you let them live the light. Robbie really does go through the wringer here - in more ways that I thought weren't entirely fair or justified. 'I was weak, and now I was broken.' 🥺 But, his heart was always strong - always caring - always believing that his intentions were for the protection of his family. From his father, to his boyfriend, to his own personal demons - it's an onslaught of pain and guilt and trauma that I lost heart in it - I mean, should I not care for him more if he is facing so much? But, what I think bothered me was not only the way in which each episode hurt him, but how it never seemed like he was thinking straight that could help him see right from wrong? How the hasty actions and eventual end were never really in his favor, and that his own feelings weren't significant.. 😒
“Caring for someone, loving them…that’s not weakness. It takes courage to love somebody. Giving your heart to someone means they can stomp it in the dirt and there’s nothing you can do about it. It means pain, and it means hurting, and it means no control. But it also means joy and love and being…cherished. No risk, no reward.”
Adding to these impending troubles is Mark's own physical struggles that impact their family and once again make them realize the importance of treasuring each other and the time they have together. To have so much sadness and strife hit all in one go was not as impactful as it could have been. It did not help either that I noticed numerous typos and inconsistencies in the writing that made it harder for me. 😕 I never particularly warmed up to any of Mark and Robbie's siblings, so I don't know why it was necessary to include their perspectives in the Interludes that interrupted Robbie's narrative, but the one family member I was still very fond of was their father. 👍🏻👍🏻 A man who loved unconditionally and respectfully - one who was there for both his sons and his family - a man who proved to be a true head of their rather crazy, if not bull-headed family. When Robbie was insecure about his scars - the trauma and shame that he tries to hide - the reassuring way his father heals his wounded heart - 'they can’t see the brave, loving boy underneath. Scars aren’t ugly. Hate is ugly. Cruelty is ugly. Nothing about you is ugly' - was a really beautiful moment. 🥺
Robbie and Jason hit a rocky stage, which I never thought they would, considering they do end up walking down the aisle together. It was a hard-fought struggle - laced with betrayal, doubt, and distrust, and they both made some questionable choices that made it harder for them to prove their love was worth fighting for. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 But I was glad that they both realized their mistakes and apologized for it. It felt like a more gradual growth, one in which they were able to take the next stage in their relationship in a healthy and hopeful manner. Their nuptials and their vows were especially sweet, if not a bit too cheesy, but they were each other's lobsters - 'I will always put you first, and I will respect and love you forever.' 🥹 I guess, for someone like Robbie who has lived the worst, it is hard for him to believe that he could have the best - 'and how the circle kept spinning, only the players changed seats.' And when even the best gets damaged - it becomes difficult to believe that the best can be fixed to become even better. And that he doesn't have to do it alone; the sad fact is that as much as I realize that for him - I just could not appreciate how he eventually reached that destination - I just couldn't. 😞
“The moment was one I’d never forget, standing there with the family of my heart, surrounded with unconditional love. All those years ago, I never thought I’d have this second chance, and now the circle was complete.”
So, yeah, not the best of conclusions - a lot of tears and feels and emotions, which unfortunately never hit me hard enough. 🤷🏻♀️ Maybe it was because of how family-oriented it was, maybe it was because how it felt too unnecessarily angsty for me to believe in, maybe it was just that I wanted Robbie to change and grow on his own - not where he needs others to show him that he was not thinking straight and that he has people in his corner now who love and care for him - that with 'the bad times make me appreciate the good times even more.' 😔
October 14, 2016
Full Circle is the sequel to Second Chances and it wraps the story of the Jennings family up perfectly. In an introduction, Tom Webb says that this is a darker novel than the first one, but here’s the thing about that…you have to have the darkness to appreciate the light.
Robbie’s childhood has been a horror story. His father raped him and then sold him to a man to cover his drug habit. That man abused Robbie horribly and shared him with others to do the same. Robbie was saved from a life on the streets by the man he now calls Dad, and who is his true father in the correct sense of the word. Now that he has a family and his birth father and the other man who sexually abused Robbie are in prison everything should be OK, right? Not so much. Even from inside prison these evil men are terrifying Robbie with threats against the people he loves.
Jason has loved Robbie since he was 12 years old, first as friends, later as lovers. Their story has had its ups and downs but eventually they find a way to make things right for each other, if Jason can stop making poor choices that hurt Robbie and Robbie can learn to talk out their differences.
There is a large cast of characters who fill out the book, and all are well developed as only Mr. Webb can do. There is plenty of angst, action, and drama, but this is at its core a character-driven story.
The ending of this beautiful book will make you weep, I guarantee. Even so, it is very satisfying and a true HEA. I recommend this series and this book to anyone who loves romance and family that pulls together to protect each other.
Robbie’s childhood has been a horror story. His father raped him and then sold him to a man to cover his drug habit. That man abused Robbie horribly and shared him with others to do the same. Robbie was saved from a life on the streets by the man he now calls Dad, and who is his true father in the correct sense of the word. Now that he has a family and his birth father and the other man who sexually abused Robbie are in prison everything should be OK, right? Not so much. Even from inside prison these evil men are terrifying Robbie with threats against the people he loves.
Jason has loved Robbie since he was 12 years old, first as friends, later as lovers. Their story has had its ups and downs but eventually they find a way to make things right for each other, if Jason can stop making poor choices that hurt Robbie and Robbie can learn to talk out their differences.
There is a large cast of characters who fill out the book, and all are well developed as only Mr. Webb can do. There is plenty of angst, action, and drama, but this is at its core a character-driven story.
The ending of this beautiful book will make you weep, I guarantee. Even so, it is very satisfying and a true HEA. I recommend this series and this book to anyone who loves romance and family that pulls together to protect each other.
November 10, 2016
OMG I can't believe I will read this in my immediate future
4,5 stars rounded up
I have to admit I was super excited to read Full Circle by T.A. Webb. Second Chances, the first book in the series, is one of my all time favorite MM stories. I lost the count how many times I read it, and cried, and been happy with Mark. I fell in love with Antonio and hurt so much with Brian. I connected with all the amazing characters the author let me met.
Four years later I finally have Full Circle on my hands, you can imagine my joy but at the same time I was a little anxious. Will Robbie’s story be good as Second Chances?
The book starts in the 2010 when Robbie is been adopted by Mark’s dad and he is now officially a Jenning. Finally he has found someone who truly wants him, he is deeply and forceful wanted by a great family who request nothing in change. The Jennings gave Robbie the love of a family, the protection of a home he never had. And then there’s Jason.
Robbie has been in love with Jason, Antonio’s son, since the first time they met when Robbie was only 14 years old and has joined Mark and Brian during a picnic. Robbie is still feeling dirty and bad from when he was a whore and a drug addict, but he is working on himself and his relationship with the young Jason seems to start going somewhere, when Robbie’s biological father, the one who did unspeakable things and is now in prison, began to threaten him and his sister.
Full Circle is a choral story. The second characters are a lot and have huge roles, important as the MCs’ ones. It is darker than Second Chances as I was expecting it to be since from that little we learnt in book one, Robbie life hasn’t been easy and light at all.
I’ll be honest and say I’m not sure if Full Circle is good as the first one but the author still managed to make me weep more than once, and the ending was very very good.
There is a central part where things happen and we got everyone POV and the Jennings are a lot. It can sound confusing, instead I want to thank the author for them, in that moment I’m not sure I could have taken Robbie’s POV, it would have been too much for me. Plus it was a great chance to know better these awesome characters, some more than others, and to love them a little more.
The only reason I’m not giving Full Circle the full 5 stars is Jason, I couldn’t fully connect with him, maybe because his character was overwhelmed by others, maybe I felt him to be too young and not so mature as Robbie.
Anyway I want to highly recommend this series, but don’t jump now into Full Circle if you haven’t read Second Chances yet, you would miss too much to really enjoy the story and the people who made it great.
The cover art by Author.Services is not exactly what I was expecting but of course it/he is stunning.
4,5 stars rounded up
I have to admit I was super excited to read Full Circle by T.A. Webb. Second Chances, the first book in the series, is one of my all time favorite MM stories. I lost the count how many times I read it, and cried, and been happy with Mark. I fell in love with Antonio and hurt so much with Brian. I connected with all the amazing characters the author let me met.
Four years later I finally have Full Circle on my hands, you can imagine my joy but at the same time I was a little anxious. Will Robbie’s story be good as Second Chances?
The book starts in the 2010 when Robbie is been adopted by Mark’s dad and he is now officially a Jenning. Finally he has found someone who truly wants him, he is deeply and forceful wanted by a great family who request nothing in change. The Jennings gave Robbie the love of a family, the protection of a home he never had. And then there’s Jason.
Robbie has been in love with Jason, Antonio’s son, since the first time they met when Robbie was only 14 years old and has joined Mark and Brian during a picnic. Robbie is still feeling dirty and bad from when he was a whore and a drug addict, but he is working on himself and his relationship with the young Jason seems to start going somewhere, when Robbie’s biological father, the one who did unspeakable things and is now in prison, began to threaten him and his sister.
Full Circle is a choral story. The second characters are a lot and have huge roles, important as the MCs’ ones. It is darker than Second Chances as I was expecting it to be since from that little we learnt in book one, Robbie life hasn’t been easy and light at all.
I’ll be honest and say I’m not sure if Full Circle is good as the first one but the author still managed to make me weep more than once, and the ending was very very good.
There is a central part where things happen and we got everyone POV and the Jennings are a lot. It can sound confusing, instead I want to thank the author for them, in that moment I’m not sure I could have taken Robbie’s POV, it would have been too much for me. Plus it was a great chance to know better these awesome characters, some more than others, and to love them a little more.
The only reason I’m not giving Full Circle the full 5 stars is Jason, I couldn’t fully connect with him, maybe because his character was overwhelmed by others, maybe I felt him to be too young and not so mature as Robbie.
Anyway I want to highly recommend this series, but don’t jump now into Full Circle if you haven’t read Second Chances yet, you would miss too much to really enjoy the story and the people who made it great.
The cover art by Author.Services is not exactly what I was expecting but of course it/he is stunning.
October 21, 2016
Wow. What a marvelous, incredibly worthy sequel to Second Chances! I've not yet met a T.A. Webb story that I didn't enjoy, but book one was a favorite and I think this surpassed it. I was a bit concerned I'd be too weepy reading this and while I did cry, I also laughed loudly at the snark and banter and sighed deeply over cute and affectionate.
This is Robbie's story and it picks up after the last chapter of Mark and Antonio's story. Robbie and Jason are just moving forward from friends to more. It's a heartwarming journey, those first steps to love but we also learn more of Robbie's heartbreaking past. That was tough to read but Robbie's road to adulthood also becomes strewn with hazards and he loses his way for a while. Throughout it all though, is the Jennings family; Mark and Robbie's blunt and caring Dad, and even the majority of the siblings. Tom gives a voice and a POV, to most of the other family characters that we met before.
Many have evolved a great deal since book one and Mark and Robbie have more support than they knew. Patty is still the star, now able to taunt Robbie as well as Mark about her husband Ray's hot ass. You need to read it just to hear Mark again and his filthy, unfiltered mouth. Robbie's been a quick study too! You could almost feel sorry for Antonio and Jason if they didn't keep up. I like to think that Mark is at least somewhat of a self-portrayal of T.A. Obviously I adore the book and the characters. T.A. Webb has made this book even richer and more deeply touching than the first. READ THESE BOOKS, You won't regret it at all. Love stories you'll never forget.
This is Robbie's story and it picks up after the last chapter of Mark and Antonio's story. Robbie and Jason are just moving forward from friends to more. It's a heartwarming journey, those first steps to love but we also learn more of Robbie's heartbreaking past. That was tough to read but Robbie's road to adulthood also becomes strewn with hazards and he loses his way for a while. Throughout it all though, is the Jennings family; Mark and Robbie's blunt and caring Dad, and even the majority of the siblings. Tom gives a voice and a POV, to most of the other family characters that we met before.
Many have evolved a great deal since book one and Mark and Robbie have more support than they knew. Patty is still the star, now able to taunt Robbie as well as Mark about her husband Ray's hot ass. You need to read it just to hear Mark again and his filthy, unfiltered mouth. Robbie's been a quick study too! You could almost feel sorry for Antonio and Jason if they didn't keep up. I like to think that Mark is at least somewhat of a self-portrayal of T.A. Obviously I adore the book and the characters. T.A. Webb has made this book even richer and more deeply touching than the first. READ THESE BOOKS, You won't regret it at all. Love stories you'll never forget.
March 7, 2021
Ta część z jednej strony była bardziej mroczna - bo też i życie Robbiego nie było łatwe. Gdyby ta historia była cała w skowronkach, obłokach i jednorożcach, byłaby zupełnie niewiarygodna. Po tym, co Robbie przeżył w swoim krótkim życiu, mrok musiał się pojawić. Ale z drugiej strony było w niej więcej nadziei i jaśniejszych momentów, niż w historii Marka.
Jak zazwyczaj, kiedy jest jeden POV, jestem nieusatysfakcjonowana, bo czegoś mi brakuje, tak w tej serii jest to po prostu idealne. Bo to nie jest typowy romans. Jasne, miłość i związek z drugą osobą są ważne. Ale to przede wszystkim historie o potędze rodziny, miłości, akceptacji, wybaczenia, przyjaźni. O odnalezieniu swojego miejsca w życiu. O odnalezieniu spokoju i równowagi. O wybaczeniu i pokochaniu - przede wszystkim sobie i siebie. O zostawieniu przeszłości tam, gdzie powinna być - czyli za sobą i ruszeniu dalej ze swoim życiem. I choć w historii Robbiego, na bodajże 20 stronach, pojawia się po króciutkim POV-ie siedmiu osób - zabieg świetny, bo pokazuje, ile Robbie znaczy dla rodziny, to ten jeden POV Marka w jedynce, i Robbiego w dwójce jest idealny - bo to tak naprawdę ich historie...
Jak zazwyczaj, kiedy jest jeden POV, jestem nieusatysfakcjonowana, bo czegoś mi brakuje, tak w tej serii jest to po prostu idealne. Bo to nie jest typowy romans. Jasne, miłość i związek z drugą osobą są ważne. Ale to przede wszystkim historie o potędze rodziny, miłości, akceptacji, wybaczenia, przyjaźni. O odnalezieniu swojego miejsca w życiu. O odnalezieniu spokoju i równowagi. O wybaczeniu i pokochaniu - przede wszystkim sobie i siebie. O zostawieniu przeszłości tam, gdzie powinna być - czyli za sobą i ruszeniu dalej ze swoim życiem. I choć w historii Robbiego, na bodajże 20 stronach, pojawia się po króciutkim POV-ie siedmiu osób - zabieg świetny, bo pokazuje, ile Robbie znaczy dla rodziny, to ten jeden POV Marka w jedynce, i Robbiego w dwójce jest idealny - bo to tak naprawdę ich historie...
October 18, 2016
I jumped from Second Chances right to this one. I was anxious to learn more about Robbie and his past. I can't believe all the things he went through.
Just when Robbie thinks his life is finally coming together, he gets hit with multiple issues that cause him to snap.
These characters grew on me from all of Mark and Robbie's siblings to Antonio and Jason. Mark's dad was so full of wisdom and was the glue that seemed to hold everyone together.
I could've read another hundred pages about Robbie and Jason. Loved the ending!
4.5 stars
Just when Robbie thinks his life is finally coming together, he gets hit with multiple issues that cause him to snap.
These characters grew on me from all of Mark and Robbie's siblings to Antonio and Jason. Mark's dad was so full of wisdom and was the glue that seemed to hold everyone together.
I could've read another hundred pages about Robbie and Jason. Loved the ending!
4.5 stars
October 27, 2016
4.5 STARS
Right off the bat, if you haven’t read Second Chances, I highly recommend you start there. It was the story of how all these characters are connected and shows us how Robbie came to be a part of it all. Full Circle fills in the approximately one year gap at the end of Second Chances prior to the Epilogue. A few years have passed since that was released, but it was well worth the wait for this book.
As far as the story goes, Full Circle focuses more on Robbie and his issues, past and present. He had horrid childhood which is not easily forgotten, nor should it be. Here, we get more of those details which help explain quite a bit about poor Robbie. Thankfully, he was found and taken in by some pretty amazing people who never give up on him, but it isn’t easy. Robbie is still struggling to accept he now has people that care about him, that those people don’t expect things from him in exchange for anything, and that he deserves to be happy. Aside from dealing with those ongoing thoughts, he has a few other major things standing in his way.
First is his relationship with Jason. These guys became fast friends and then more, but Jason is still at the confused stage of his life and is torn between his girlfriend and Robbie. Robbie has loved Jason almost from the time they met, and they obviously have a strong connection. But, Robbie is still having issues opening up more about his past, and having someone he finally trusts not be a solid force wreaks a bit of havoc when he already doesn’t feel worthy. These guys are young and haven’t gotten things all figured out yet, and it would have felt disingenuous had they not had to work on these things and learn to communicate and be more for each other.
The other big issue is Robbie’s biodad who is again making demands of Robbie even from prison. The true nature of the horrible things he has put Robbie through are hard to bear, but as is beautifully pointed out to Robbie, his scars don’t make him ugly, they make him a survivor. Unfortunately, he tries to handle things himself rather than put that burden on his new family who is dealing with a few blows of their own.
Every time Robbie seems to be pulling through and getting to a point where everything falls into place and everyone can just be happy, things come crashing down until Robbie simply cannot take it anymore and flees once again. When Robbie runs, the memories of his past haunt everyone who cares about Robbie. They saved him once from the downward spiral, but will they get a second chance? You can tell from the blurbs and titles that they do, so rest assured that it is worth it to follow this story to the end. As difficult as it was to learn about Robbie’s life, to see him triumph with the love of an actual family, whether connected by blood or by choice, is beautiful to watch.
I love Mr. Webb’s style and storytelling. He brings the characters alive, with humor and love shining through. I was riveted from the beginning and turning pages quickly right to the beautiful end. This was a bit darker but very well written and just as emotional, if not more, than the previous book. I absolutely love seeing damaged characters overcome and find peace and love. This story delivers that in spades, and I highly recommend it if you like stories that make the characters really have to go through hell and back before they make it to their happy ending.
Book received in exchange for a fair and honest review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
December 19, 2016
Tom Webb, you've done it again **happy dancing here** [how I've missed you and your stories <3]. Reading one of Tom's stories is almost a rite of passage for us M/M readers, and I'm dead chuffed to say I've read nearly everything he's ever written; so yes, waiting a little longer than usual to read the sequel to Second Chances was a pain in the arse and sucked donkey balls but nothing comes before Tom's health and well-being anyway. The wait?? Totally worth it!! 4.5 stars rounded up.
You cannot possibly read this sequel without having read the first story, Second Chances, which was Mark's story, and I suppose in a way, this was also a second chance story...a second chance for Robbie, Mark's adopted brother, to live the life he chose and deserved [instead of thinking of himself as a druggie, a whore and worthless]. The whole of the Jennings clan appeared in this story...even characters that I didn't particularly like in book 1, but boy, have they grown up as adults and mellowed since Mark and Antonio's story [thank goodness]. The sisters that breathed religious fire and brimstone on Mark's arse have toned down their hatred of all things gay, and have grudgingly accepted Robbie into their family [with a good telling off from Dad for their non-Christian attitudes], and Robbie?? Well, life is sweet for him and things are going well with Jason, his 'boyfriend', until things start unravelling when his hated father contacts him from jail. No, I refuse to call that sperm donor Robbie's father again, it's a insult to Dad Jennings, so we'll just name him SD....the SD who sold Robbie to his drug dealer at the age of 10, and then took part in raping his son and threatened to force Robbie's younger sister Angela down the same route unless he did what they told him. [Oh yeah, what's that saying? 'Vengeance is mine sayeth the Lord'....enjoy your comeuppance boys....].
Lots of things get in the way of Robbie and his right to true happiness, but get true happiness he eventually does...although at some personal cost. I adored being wrapped up in the warmth of the Jennings clan again, feeling the love... oh, and I suppose I should include the Roberto's here too...Mark and Antonio and Jason [Antonio's son] and Robbie. Well, they made one particular Christmas extra special for everyone. Many thanks Tom!!
October 23, 2016
Robbie Jennings childhood was a nightmare of abuse and neglect. Now, he has a chance at a good life with his adopted family, and a boyfriend he dearly loves. Funny thing about life, it always throws a wrench in the works when things are going well.
This is a beautiful, warm, complex story about that multifaceted thing called love. The reader is maneuvered through the fears, the disillusionment, and the triumphs that Robbie endures to achieve his understanding of what love and family really mean. This story is an ultimate tribute to what love can be and should be.
This is a beautiful, warm, complex story about that multifaceted thing called love. The reader is maneuvered through the fears, the disillusionment, and the triumphs that Robbie endures to achieve his understanding of what love and family really mean. This story is an ultimate tribute to what love can be and should be.
October 18, 2016
5*****Stars
Book: Full Circle
Series: Second Chances #2
Author: TA Webb
Publisher: A Bear on Books
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Rated: Mature
Was is four years ago that I read Second Chances by TA Webb??? I remember the story like it was yesterday. You know some books just do that. The characters are alive, the story has always resonated with me, and I am so glad to have heard this author’s health is allowing him to continue entertaining us and I am so grateful.
I cannot begin my review without closing my eyes and remembering the Jennings family, and where we began. Mark Jennings worked for a non profit dealing with homeless children in the Atlanta area. Mark was struggling with a dying mother, a cheating boyfriend Brian who he just threw out who and needed some kind of outlet.
Mark, finds himself alone and hurting, dealing with the final illness of his mother and her death. His words were so meaningful to me as I faced the same issues at his age losing my Mom. “Being in charge and no one saw me bleeding all over the floor. To be alone and have no one to be my rock”. I still can remember this.
Mark begins mentoring a young broken teen Robbie Jennings in need of so much. This poor boy had no sense of self. Abused and raped by his father and his pimp, he hated life and especially himself. Mark Jennings was his family, his brother, his all. Second Chances was about Mark, Full Circle is about Robbie.
By the time Robbie saw Jason they were about 12. They were at a Jennings family picnic. By this time, Robbie was encircled by the Jennings family. When Mark’s father adopted Robbie as his own, you would think all would be well. Robbie’s father and his pimp were in jail, and yet he still had no peace, having the family he loved being threatened from prison.
In all these years, Robbie still has hard issues. The scars from the beatings he could hide, but the other scars were inside. He never felt like he was enough. Robbie was always sure of his feelings for Jason and by a miracle Jason shared he felt the same way.
Mr. Webb has a very large cast, mostly family members and holidays and illness and misunderstandings, all making this book a coming of age for all of them in some ways. Family is family and who you don’t think much of, surprise you.
I dare you to not have at least a lump in your throat by the end of this very touching and meaningful read. I had tissues !!! The story did come Full Circle and I loved it.!! PS Welcome Home Mr Webb...Glad to have you back.
Review by Gloria Lakritz
Sr Reviewer and Review Chair for the Paranormal Romance Guild
Book: Full Circle
Series: Second Chances #2
Author: TA Webb
Publisher: A Bear on Books
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Rated: Mature
Was is four years ago that I read Second Chances by TA Webb??? I remember the story like it was yesterday. You know some books just do that. The characters are alive, the story has always resonated with me, and I am so glad to have heard this author’s health is allowing him to continue entertaining us and I am so grateful.
I cannot begin my review without closing my eyes and remembering the Jennings family, and where we began. Mark Jennings worked for a non profit dealing with homeless children in the Atlanta area. Mark was struggling with a dying mother, a cheating boyfriend Brian who he just threw out who and needed some kind of outlet.
Mark, finds himself alone and hurting, dealing with the final illness of his mother and her death. His words were so meaningful to me as I faced the same issues at his age losing my Mom. “Being in charge and no one saw me bleeding all over the floor. To be alone and have no one to be my rock”. I still can remember this.
Mark begins mentoring a young broken teen Robbie Jennings in need of so much. This poor boy had no sense of self. Abused and raped by his father and his pimp, he hated life and especially himself. Mark Jennings was his family, his brother, his all. Second Chances was about Mark, Full Circle is about Robbie.
By the time Robbie saw Jason they were about 12. They were at a Jennings family picnic. By this time, Robbie was encircled by the Jennings family. When Mark’s father adopted Robbie as his own, you would think all would be well. Robbie’s father and his pimp were in jail, and yet he still had no peace, having the family he loved being threatened from prison.
In all these years, Robbie still has hard issues. The scars from the beatings he could hide, but the other scars were inside. He never felt like he was enough. Robbie was always sure of his feelings for Jason and by a miracle Jason shared he felt the same way.
Mr. Webb has a very large cast, mostly family members and holidays and illness and misunderstandings, all making this book a coming of age for all of them in some ways. Family is family and who you don’t think much of, surprise you.
I dare you to not have at least a lump in your throat by the end of this very touching and meaningful read. I had tissues !!! The story did come Full Circle and I loved it.!! PS Welcome Home Mr Webb...Glad to have you back.
Review by Gloria Lakritz
Sr Reviewer and Review Chair for the Paranormal Romance Guild
October 17, 2016
all the stars ☆
I just Loved reading the Second chance series
I wish there were more books.
I Loved Robbie and Jason and their whole family it was such a beautiful story to read .
Just like in the the first book it made me cry ...
Robbie and Jason's HEA is everything ♡!
I just Loved reading the Second chance series
I wish there were more books.
I Loved Robbie and Jason and their whole family it was such a beautiful story to read .
Just like in the the first book it made me cry ...
Robbie and Jason's HEA is everything ♡!
November 9, 2016
“A family is like a circle, the connection never ends and even if at times it breaks, in time it always mends... Families are those who help who support and always care. ... with endless words that show you... They help define just who you are and will be a part of you eternally.” ~ Nicole M. O'Neil (A Family is Like a Circle)
Robbie Jennings, of ‘Full Circle’, has had far more exposure to the world's underbelly than anyone should. Most people would have given up on ever having anything good in their life, but Robbie is strong and a survivor and has the biggest heart in the world. He still has hope that things will get better. When he meets Mark Jennings, his luck begins to change. Along with Mark comes his whole family to help Robbie understand what love and belonging means. It's up to Robbie to open up and embrace it.
Although Robbie still has trust issues, since Mark's father adopted him his world and his perception thereof has changed significantly. For the first time in a long time, Robbie is happy. But the ghosts of his past still haunt him at times and he's still slow to trust. Robbie's love for Jason is growing stronger all the time. More than anyone, Robbie wants to believe in Jason.
Although Jason loves Robbie as well, he's not as mature as Robbie. He inadvertently hurts him and, between that and other traumatic circumstances, Robbie goes into a tailspin. His hard earned self-confidence is shattered. To believe that he is a good person is something he's fought hard for; yet, it's as if Robbie is waiting for the other shoe to drop. He is waiting for something to happen that will prove he is what his father and Zev told him, that he's rotten, no good, a bad person, someone who will never amount to anything. Consequently, Robbie does what he's always done when things get bad; he runs away leaving his safety net behind.
The family is frantic, especially Mark's father. He considers Robbie his son as much as any of his other boys so his heartbreak is intense. Robbie seemed so happy with Jason; he seemed to be adjusting into the family, and his woodworking business was going strong. The family assumed that all was well with Robbie. His flight is unexpected, and, for the most part, unexplainable. Antonio, Jason's father and Mark's lover, hires a private investigator and the whole family goes on high alert, searching Robbie's old haunts and questioning his old acquaintances. Knowing his past history, every day he is gone the family worries even more. When it comes to finding Robbie, things are not looking good.
It's interesting how a crisis can affect a family. It causes everyone involved to re-evaluate what they feel and why. The Jennings family might have their own kind of dynamics and they certainly don't always agree on everything, but one thing is true - ultimately their love for each other always shines through. Coming full circle, in this case, means ending up where you started, only better. Even though there are some dark moments in this story, they are contrasted with a great deal of healing and hope. Thanks, T.A. For giving Robbie and Jason their well deserved happy ending.
“A family is like a circle, the connection never ends and even if at times it breaks, in time it always mends... Families are those who help who support and always care. ... with endless words that show you... They help define just who you are and will be a part of you eternally.” ~ Nicole M. O'Neil (A Family is Like a Circle)
Robbie Jennings, of ‘Full Circle’, has had far more exposure to the world's underbelly than anyone should. Most people would have given up on ever having anything good in their life, but Robbie is strong and a survivor and has the biggest heart in the world. He still has hope that things will get better. When he meets Mark Jennings, his luck begins to change. Along with Mark comes his whole family to help Robbie understand what love and belonging means. It's up to Robbie to open up and embrace it.
Although Robbie still has trust issues, since Mark's father adopted him his world and his perception thereof has changed significantly. For the first time in a long time, Robbie is happy. But the ghosts of his past still haunt him at times and he's still slow to trust. Robbie's love for Jason is growing stronger all the time. More than anyone, Robbie wants to believe in Jason.
Although Jason loves Robbie as well, he's not as mature as Robbie. He inadvertently hurts him and, between that and other traumatic circumstances, Robbie goes into a tailspin. His hard earned self-confidence is shattered. To believe that he is a good person is something he's fought hard for; yet, it's as if Robbie is waiting for the other shoe to drop. He is waiting for something to happen that will prove he is what his father and Zev told him, that he's rotten, no good, a bad person, someone who will never amount to anything. Consequently, Robbie does what he's always done when things get bad; he runs away leaving his safety net behind.
The family is frantic, especially Mark's father. He considers Robbie his son as much as any of his other boys so his heartbreak is intense. Robbie seemed so happy with Jason; he seemed to be adjusting into the family, and his woodworking business was going strong. The family assumed that all was well with Robbie. His flight is unexpected, and, for the most part, unexplainable. Antonio, Jason's father and Mark's lover, hires a private investigator and the whole family goes on high alert, searching Robbie's old haunts and questioning his old acquaintances. Knowing his past history, every day he is gone the family worries even more. When it comes to finding Robbie, things are not looking good.
It's interesting how a crisis can affect a family. It causes everyone involved to re-evaluate what they feel and why. The Jennings family might have their own kind of dynamics and they certainly don't always agree on everything, but one thing is true - ultimately their love for each other always shines through. Coming full circle, in this case, means ending up where you started, only better. Even though there are some dark moments in this story, they are contrasted with a great deal of healing and hope. Thanks, T.A. For giving Robbie and Jason their well deserved happy ending.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Robbie Jennings, of ‘Full Circle’, has had far more exposure to the world's underbelly than anyone should. Most people would have given up on ever having anything good in their life, but Robbie is strong and a survivor and has the biggest heart in the world. He still has hope that things will get better. When he meets Mark Jennings, his luck begins to change. Along with Mark comes his whole family to help Robbie understand what love and belonging means. It's up to Robbie to open up and embrace it.
Although Robbie still has trust issues, since Mark's father adopted him his world and his perception thereof has changed significantly. For the first time in a long time, Robbie is happy. But the ghosts of his past still haunt him at times and he's still slow to trust. Robbie's love for Jason is growing stronger all the time. More than anyone, Robbie wants to believe in Jason.
Although Jason loves Robbie as well, he's not as mature as Robbie. He inadvertently hurts him and, between that and other traumatic circumstances, Robbie goes into a tailspin. His hard earned self-confidence is shattered. To believe that he is a good person is something he's fought hard for; yet, it's as if Robbie is waiting for the other shoe to drop. He is waiting for something to happen that will prove he is what his father and Zev told him, that he's rotten, no good, a bad person, someone who will never amount to anything. Consequently, Robbie does what he's always done when things get bad; he runs away leaving his safety net behind.
The family is frantic, especially Mark's father. He considers Robbie his son as much as any of his other boys so his heartbreak is intense. Robbie seemed so happy with Jason; he seemed to be adjusting into the family, and his woodworking business was going strong. The family assumed that all was well with Robbie. His flight is unexpected, and, for the most part, unexplainable. Antonio, Jason's father and Mark's lover, hires a private investigator and the whole family goes on high alert, searching Robbie's old haunts and questioning his old acquaintances. Knowing his past history, every day he is gone the family worries even more. When it comes to finding Robbie, things are not looking good.
It's interesting how a crisis can affect a family. It causes everyone involved to re-evaluate what they feel and why. The Jennings family might have their own kind of dynamics and they certainly don't always agree on everything, but one thing is true - ultimately their love for each other always shines through. Coming full circle, in this case, means ending up where you started, only better. Even though there are some dark moments in this story, they are contrasted with a great deal of healing and hope. Thanks, T.A. For giving Robbie and Jason their well deserved happy ending.
“A family is like a circle, the connection never ends and even if at times it breaks, in time it always mends... Families are those who help who support and always care. ... with endless words that show you... They help define just who you are and will be a part of you eternally.” ~ Nicole M. O'Neil (A Family is Like a Circle)
Robbie Jennings, of ‘Full Circle’, has had far more exposure to the world's underbelly than anyone should. Most people would have given up on ever having anything good in their life, but Robbie is strong and a survivor and has the biggest heart in the world. He still has hope that things will get better. When he meets Mark Jennings, his luck begins to change. Along with Mark comes his whole family to help Robbie understand what love and belonging means. It's up to Robbie to open up and embrace it.
Although Robbie still has trust issues, since Mark's father adopted him his world and his perception thereof has changed significantly. For the first time in a long time, Robbie is happy. But the ghosts of his past still haunt him at times and he's still slow to trust. Robbie's love for Jason is growing stronger all the time. More than anyone, Robbie wants to believe in Jason.
Although Jason loves Robbie as well, he's not as mature as Robbie. He inadvertently hurts him and, between that and other traumatic circumstances, Robbie goes into a tailspin. His hard earned self-confidence is shattered. To believe that he is a good person is something he's fought hard for; yet, it's as if Robbie is waiting for the other shoe to drop. He is waiting for something to happen that will prove he is what his father and Zev told him, that he's rotten, no good, a bad person, someone who will never amount to anything. Consequently, Robbie does what he's always done when things get bad; he runs away leaving his safety net behind.
The family is frantic, especially Mark's father. He considers Robbie his son as much as any of his other boys so his heartbreak is intense. Robbie seemed so happy with Jason; he seemed to be adjusting into the family, and his woodworking business was going strong. The family assumed that all was well with Robbie. His flight is unexpected, and, for the most part, unexplainable. Antonio, Jason's father and Mark's lover, hires a private investigator and the whole family goes on high alert, searching Robbie's old haunts and questioning his old acquaintances. Knowing his past history, every day he is gone the family worries even more. When it comes to finding Robbie, things are not looking good.
It's interesting how a crisis can affect a family. It causes everyone involved to re-evaluate what they feel and why. The Jennings family might have their own kind of dynamics and they certainly don't always agree on everything, but one thing is true - ultimately their love for each other always shines through. Coming full circle, in this case, means ending up where you started, only better. Even though there are some dark moments in this story, they are contrasted with a great deal of healing and hope. Thanks, T.A. For giving Robbie and Jason their well deserved happy ending.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
May 28, 2018
I really liked Second Chances but I LOVED Full Circle! It was such a good story and the humor in it was epic. I cried and I laughed out loud. Perfect.
October 29, 2016
I have just finished Full Circle and I really like how T.A. Webb writes.
It is always a pleasant reading and it is easy to get into the story faster than other authors who lack of good writings.
Said that though, I enjoyed more the first book, Second chances with Mark and Antonio story. I found this book a little cheesy. The past of Robbie is very hard and he is so lucky to have that family to support him, but honestly... Is it necessary those too many "I love you" during this story? Don't get me wrong, I always will love LOVE above other things but to my opinion, the more "I love you" you say, the less believable it is. I mean, actions are also declarations of love and to me it is not necessary to say it everytime, because it lacks of significance. It is this reason that I found sometimes that the Robbie and Jason relationship was not very real.
As I said, T.A. Webb writings are awesome and I will keep reading him without hesitation, although this time I didn't get that full sactification after reading it.
It is always a pleasant reading and it is easy to get into the story faster than other authors who lack of good writings.
Said that though, I enjoyed more the first book, Second chances with Mark and Antonio story. I found this book a little cheesy. The past of Robbie is very hard and he is so lucky to have that family to support him, but honestly... Is it necessary those too many "I love you" during this story? Don't get me wrong, I always will love LOVE above other things but to my opinion, the more "I love you" you say, the less believable it is. I mean, actions are also declarations of love and to me it is not necessary to say it everytime, because it lacks of significance. It is this reason that I found sometimes that the Robbie and Jason relationship was not very real.
As I said, T.A. Webb writings are awesome and I will keep reading him without hesitation, although this time I didn't get that full sactification after reading it.
May 19, 2017
Well, I had forgotten a lot of the details of Mark's story since I read Second Chances but there is enough information to jog memories and I certainly wasn't left wondering what this or that meant. But I would say read book 1 first.
Robbie and Jason have a sort of on/off relationship but that soon solidifies but Jason is still a young college kid whereas Robbie's history makes him way older than his years.
I love Robbie's relationship with his adoptive dad, such a great guy. The humour is still there, especially from Mark. There are dark times and emotional times but we are saved a lot of the heavy stuff by the short part two which offers alternate pov to Robbie's missing months and we only really get pieces of that period.
The family have matured, mostly accepting Robbie. And Brenda came through big time.
I probably still prefer Mark and Antonio as a couple but it was a lovely story of family, acceptance and a great closing of the circle.
Robbie and Jason have a sort of on/off relationship but that soon solidifies but Jason is still a young college kid whereas Robbie's history makes him way older than his years.
I love Robbie's relationship with his adoptive dad, such a great guy. The humour is still there, especially from Mark. There are dark times and emotional times but we are saved a lot of the heavy stuff by the short part two which offers alternate pov to Robbie's missing months and we only really get pieces of that period.
The family have matured, mostly accepting Robbie. And Brenda came through big time.
I probably still prefer Mark and Antonio as a couple but it was a lovely story of family, acceptance and a great closing of the circle.
January 9, 2017
4+ stars
Robbie's story is a painful, moving and encouraging one, as almost any story by T.A. Webb, and well writeen as all stories by T.A. Webb.
I loved the Jennings's dynamics. particularly the relationship between Robbie and Jenning Sr.
My little niggles were:
* Mark, He appears in certain moments somewhat blurred regarding the strong impact that he provoked me in Second Chances.
* Excessive declamations of love between Robbie and Jason although I understand that's usual behavior of a lot of teens; so is a matter of personal tastes, I prefer the quiet and intense types.
Robbie's story is a painful, moving and encouraging one, as almost any story by T.A. Webb, and well writeen as all stories by T.A. Webb.
I loved the Jennings's dynamics. particularly the relationship between Robbie and Jenning Sr.
My little niggles were:
* Mark, He appears in certain moments somewhat blurred regarding the strong impact that he provoked me in Second Chances.
* Excessive declamations of love between Robbie and Jason although I understand that's usual behavior of a lot of teens; so is a matter of personal tastes, I prefer the quiet and intense types.
August 27, 2017
Quelle sensibilité possède cet auteur, même moi qui ne suis pas particulièrement sensible, je n'ai pu qu'être touchée par ce second tome. Robbie est tellement attachant, il se débat avec son passé en se sentant toujours coupable pour ce qu'il a fait et malgré l'amour de ses proches et surtout Jason, il est toujours au bord du gouffre. Il va lui falloir parcourir un long chemin pour trouver la paix et le bonheur.
Ce que j'apprécie chez cet auteur, c'est que malgré les événements parfois durs que subissent ces personnages, il conserve une note d'humour et de gaité afin d'alléger la noirceur de certains passages.
Ce que j'apprécie chez cet auteur, c'est que malgré les événements parfois durs que subissent ces personnages, il conserve une note d'humour et de gaité afin d'alléger la noirceur de certains passages.
October 20, 2016
Really enjoyed the story of Robbie and Jason. Tom you're one of my favorite writer (Second chances is in my top ten) and I'm glad you finished writing this book! I'm now waiting for the next book in the Broken Road Cafe series...
April 9, 2018
As the author said, this was somewhat darker than the first, because life is like that. Still a wonderful story of how love and family can bring happiness in the end. I loved it, and was so happy to finally be able to get it at Smashwords.
April 1, 2019
2nd book in the series (1 novel, 1 short, then this novel) and I highly recommend reading them in order. Tough subject matter but heart-warming, compassionate and wonderful MC's. Just touching, inspiring stories about love and family.
November 13, 2016
4.5 stars
December 17, 2016
3.5 stars
April 5, 2017
3.5 stars
December 25, 2017
3.5 stars
June 10, 2018
3.75 to 4 stars
July 20, 2020
3.5 stars.
May 23, 2024
I read this one because I finished the first book and was interested in their story. Robbie had a difficult past and him and Jason clicked since the first day the met in book 1. Because of the epilogue of book 1 I also know they end up together and married so I was excited to read it from their perspective and get the whole story.
I really wish I hadn’t honestly! First it’s kinda dark with everything Robbie went through as a child being abused and those are things that just don’t sit well with me as a parent myself. I’ve read other books with similar heavy topics but it’s usually implied or not as heavy handed. What I found strange was it goes from super heavy topics to over the top lightheartedness making the flow of the book just a little off.
You would also think most of the angst is from that troubled past but even if some is most is really from Jason and how he can’t seem to pick a side. He’s with Robbie but then also hanging out and making out with his x girlfriend like it’s no big deal! They are just friends!
So that happens once and Robbie catches it and eventually confronts him about and considering his past trusting people is difficult and the feeling of betrayal is at the surface. They work it out and then it’s like nothing happened.
Well sometime later Jason wants to go to a party because he’s in university but it’s not Robbie’s scene so he tells him to go alone. Simple enough. How is it he gets drunk and “friends” post pics of him and the x girlfriend again! Getting it on. This time considering everything else that is falling apart in Robbie’s life it’s too much and he of course reacts by running away.
This is about 4 month or so he’s gone and instead of knowing what happens to him during this period of time instead we get a chapter or so from everyone else’s POV. Like all the siblings and the dad and Jason and his dad and mark and I’m like why??? This could have been skipped all together.
Robbie is eventually found in rough shape because of course same old issue happen to him again. He does make up again with Jason and feels dumb about blowing out of proportion without at least discussing it first.
And of course you get a HEA
I really wish I hadn’t honestly! First it’s kinda dark with everything Robbie went through as a child being abused and those are things that just don’t sit well with me as a parent myself. I’ve read other books with similar heavy topics but it’s usually implied or not as heavy handed. What I found strange was it goes from super heavy topics to over the top lightheartedness making the flow of the book just a little off.
You would also think most of the angst is from that troubled past but even if some is most is really from Jason and how he can’t seem to pick a side. He’s with Robbie but then also hanging out and making out with his x girlfriend like it’s no big deal! They are just friends!
So that happens once and Robbie catches it and eventually confronts him about and considering his past trusting people is difficult and the feeling of betrayal is at the surface. They work it out and then it’s like nothing happened.
Well sometime later Jason wants to go to a party because he’s in university but it’s not Robbie’s scene so he tells him to go alone. Simple enough. How is it he gets drunk and “friends” post pics of him and the x girlfriend again! Getting it on. This time considering everything else that is falling apart in Robbie’s life it’s too much and he of course reacts by running away.
This is about 4 month or so he’s gone and instead of knowing what happens to him during this period of time instead we get a chapter or so from everyone else’s POV. Like all the siblings and the dad and Jason and his dad and mark and I’m like why??? This could have been skipped all together.
Robbie is eventually found in rough shape because of course same old issue happen to him again. He does make up again with Jason and feels dumb about blowing out of proportion without at least discussing it first.
And of course you get a HEA
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