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Sugarplums and Second Chances
Are some mistakes beyond redemption?
When former NFL star, Chase McGill, invites Courtney Trudesta, the widow of his former teammate, to spend Christmas with him and his son in Lake Endwell, he simply wants to repay her for the weekly letters she sent while he was in prison.
He didn't expect to fall for her.
Chase regrets his past and knows it will take more than sugarplums and wishful thinking to heal Courtney's lonely heart. But with a dose of small-town charm and plenty of Christmas cheer, they might have a second chance at happiness...with each other.
Sugarplums and Second Chances was originally released in the I'll Be Home for Christmas novella collection.
When former NFL star, Chase McGill, invites Courtney Trudesta, the widow of his former teammate, to spend Christmas with him and his son in Lake Endwell, he simply wants to repay her for the weekly letters she sent while he was in prison.
He didn't expect to fall for her.
Chase regrets his past and knows it will take more than sugarplums and wishful thinking to heal Courtney's lonely heart. But with a dose of small-town charm and plenty of Christmas cheer, they might have a second chance at happiness...with each other.
Sugarplums and Second Chances was originally released in the I'll Be Home for Christmas novella collection.
- GenresRomance
109 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2018
11 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Jill Kemerer
118 books623 followersJill Kemerer is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of heartwarming, emotional, small-town romance novels often featuring cowboys. She is a multi-published author of Christian romance novels with Harlequin Love Inspired. Nearly a million of her books have sold worldwide.
A former electrical engineer, Jill now writes full-time. Her essentials include coffee, caramels, a stack of books, and long walks outdoors. She rarely passes up a bookstore and spends too much time at the library. She resides in Ohio with her husband. They have two adult children. For more information, visit her website, jillkemerer.com.
A former electrical engineer, Jill now writes full-time. Her essentials include coffee, caramels, a stack of books, and long walks outdoors. She rarely passes up a bookstore and spends too much time at the library. She resides in Ohio with her husband. They have two adult children. For more information, visit her website, jillkemerer.com.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 17, 2018
Wonderful story of redemption and second chances!
Chase and Courtney know the sense of loss for loved ones and how hard it is to get close to someone again. But maybe, just maybe with the help of God and realizing that He loves them no matter what, they can overcome the hurt to have a second chance at forever love. We learned a little about Chase in Hometown Hero's Redemption but never got the full story. I was so happy that the author wanted to tell it! He knows he made mistakes in the past and he paid dearly for them. Having a second chance at life, raising his son and a sweet romance is more than Chase ever thought he'd have again. One line that stuck out to me when Courtney is talking to him is this; “God has plans for you, Chase. Don't let regrets keep you from your destiny.” I loved the moment when he realized this for himself, it was beautifully freeing!
* I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not obligated to leave a review. *
Chase and Courtney know the sense of loss for loved ones and how hard it is to get close to someone again. But maybe, just maybe with the help of God and realizing that He loves them no matter what, they can overcome the hurt to have a second chance at forever love. We learned a little about Chase in Hometown Hero's Redemption but never got the full story. I was so happy that the author wanted to tell it! He knows he made mistakes in the past and he paid dearly for them. Having a second chance at life, raising his son and a sweet romance is more than Chase ever thought he'd have again. One line that stuck out to me when Courtney is talking to him is this; “God has plans for you, Chase. Don't let regrets keep you from your destiny.” I loved the moment when he realized this for himself, it was beautifully freeing!
* I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not obligated to leave a review. *
November 20, 2018
Didn't realize I had read this before when it was published with other short stories, but loved the story all over again. Chase is now out of jail and trying to make amends with his life, with God's help, mostly by being there for his teen son. Courtney is facing her first Christmas by herself and accepts Chase's invite to stay with him for the holiday. They are both hurting and trying to move forward with their lives. Very sweet Christmas read that made me smile :)
October 18, 2018
Take a trip with Jill Kemerer back to Lake Endwell and see old friends. It was nice to see Chase from a previous book get his second chance. Well written and fun to read.
August 11, 2024
The first half was too physical-focused for my taste. I also did not appreciate the poor example of having unmarried leads stay in the same house over the Christmas holidays. The way the sensuality was highlighted made the temptations palpable.
However, the second half of the story was very sweet and felt much more innocent and charming despite a few kissy moments.
It was hard for me to get into the rhythm of this story because of the lengthy history cumps and one-paragraph series summary. Both were quite dizzying.
Side note: Basketball and hockey seasons overlap, with baseball joining the lineup in the last month or so of the regular season.
Content: excessive sensuality, unmarried leads living in the same house
However, the second half of the story was very sweet and felt much more innocent and charming despite a few kissy moments.
It was hard for me to get into the rhythm of this story because of the lengthy history cumps and one-paragraph series summary. Both were quite dizzying.
Side note: Basketball and hockey seasons overlap, with baseball joining the lineup in the last month or so of the regular season.
Content: excessive sensuality, unmarried leads living in the same house
November 2, 2018
This is such a sweet book. I loved the cover!! Courtney and Chase are two characters that immediately grabbed my heart. Both have experienced loss but in different ways. Courtney has recently lost her mother and wonders how she can get through the first Christmas without her. Chase always wanted a home and family, but his house just feels empty. What I like best about both of these characters is that even though they've been knocked down, they get back up and keep going. The plot flows effortlessly and immediately pulled me in. The author weaves words together that brought the setting to life for me. This book has elements of faith, romance, grief, and love. This is a sweet, Christmas romance that I would recommend to anyone.
**I received this book from the author. I was not expected to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
**I received this book from the author. I was not expected to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 2, 2018
Sugarplums and Second Chances: A Lake Endwell Romance Novella
By: Jill Kemerer
I have been waiting for Chase McGill’s story . Chase is a former NFL star who is trying to start over after being in prison. He has a son that is now a teenage and he wants to be the dad he has missed out on. This is a wonderful novella about second chances . Loved the story and the characters, both was great. A wonderful Christmas story that can be read anytime. This story touched my heart. Will Chase get his second chance?
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my Own
By: Jill Kemerer
I have been waiting for Chase McGill’s story . Chase is a former NFL star who is trying to start over after being in prison. He has a son that is now a teenage and he wants to be the dad he has missed out on. This is a wonderful novella about second chances . Loved the story and the characters, both was great. A wonderful Christmas story that can be read anytime. This story touched my heart. Will Chase get his second chance?
I was given a complimentary copy of this book, but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my Own
November 2, 2018
Jill’s book I’ve been waiting for. So fun to get to read Chase’s story. Chase and Courtney write each other letters. Chase is a former NFL Wide receiver. Him and Courtney spend Christmas together. Amazing story of redemption., trust and true love based in Christ’s redeeming love.
November 4, 2018
Sugarplums and Second Chances is wonderful novella by Jill Kemerer. I so enjoyed reading this story about Chase and Courtney. This is a story about second chances, faith, love, determination, redemption and so much more. Be sure to get your copy of Sugarplums and Second Chances today.
November 4, 2018
I have not read the previous books that the characters were introduced in, but I did not have any issues following along with this story. Chase is a former NFL player, who is trying to rebuild his life after being in prison. Courtney and him write letters. Both have had their flaws. This story is such a heartwarming story about Christ's redeeming love for us.
I received a copy of this book through the author - all thoughts are my own.
I received a copy of this book through the author - all thoughts are my own.
March 16, 2019
Sugarplums and Second Chances by Jill Kemerer
A Lake Endwell Romance
Chase McGill is having a tough time of leaving his guilt behind and living as the man that God forgave for his foolish mistakes. He has made his son, Wyatt, his main priority in life. When he’d invited Courtney, his friend’s widow, to stay for Christmas, she’d refused. Only now, she's on his doorstep.
Courtney Trudesta had found true love. She just didn't get her happily-ever-after. JJ was taken from her in an accident. Along with his death...she lost her friends from his NFL team. She is hoping that spending a Christmas with JJ's old teammate—and the man she wrote letters to each week that he was in prison—will be enough to help her move on to her new job. A job that doesn't excite her at all.
Neither Chase nor Courtney have really moved on with their lives. Can they put their pasts behind them long enough to see a future God has for them? This is a short story but packed full of romance. I loved it!
Love Inspired's Hometown Hero's Redemption is Drew's story, where he takes Wyatt in while Chase is in prison.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
A Lake Endwell Romance
Chase McGill is having a tough time of leaving his guilt behind and living as the man that God forgave for his foolish mistakes. He has made his son, Wyatt, his main priority in life. When he’d invited Courtney, his friend’s widow, to stay for Christmas, she’d refused. Only now, she's on his doorstep.
Courtney Trudesta had found true love. She just didn't get her happily-ever-after. JJ was taken from her in an accident. Along with his death...she lost her friends from his NFL team. She is hoping that spending a Christmas with JJ's old teammate—and the man she wrote letters to each week that he was in prison—will be enough to help her move on to her new job. A job that doesn't excite her at all.
Neither Chase nor Courtney have really moved on with their lives. Can they put their pasts behind them long enough to see a future God has for them? This is a short story but packed full of romance. I loved it!
Love Inspired's Hometown Hero's Redemption is Drew's story, where he takes Wyatt in while Chase is in prison.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
December 4, 2025
I love stories of second chances and redemption. I also love Christmas stories that get me in the mood for the holidays, and this book has done just that.
I could feel the pain of the mistakes and losses each of these characters was dealing with. Seeing how they worked through their struggles to find hope and healing during the holiday time was perfect to read at the beginning of December. It has got me in the holiday spirit. Many people deal with loss and loneliness at this time of year; it’s good to remember to look out for others and see if we can bring joy to their lives. We never know what they may be going through.
I enjoy reading Jill Kemerer's books; they flow with wonderful dialogue, sweet pictures of tender relationships, and warm examples of community.
This book is full of beautiful lessons about how God really does want to take our burdens and bless us. It’s a story of finding purpose and following dreams. This author weaves these incredible lessons into our hearts through her book.
If you want to read books that are clean, romantic, fun, and quick to read, then Jill Kemerer is someone you should check out!
I highly recommend you pick up this book.
I could feel the pain of the mistakes and losses each of these characters was dealing with. Seeing how they worked through their struggles to find hope and healing during the holiday time was perfect to read at the beginning of December. It has got me in the holiday spirit. Many people deal with loss and loneliness at this time of year; it’s good to remember to look out for others and see if we can bring joy to their lives. We never know what they may be going through.
I enjoy reading Jill Kemerer's books; they flow with wonderful dialogue, sweet pictures of tender relationships, and warm examples of community.
This book is full of beautiful lessons about how God really does want to take our burdens and bless us. It’s a story of finding purpose and following dreams. This author weaves these incredible lessons into our hearts through her book.
If you want to read books that are clean, romantic, fun, and quick to read, then Jill Kemerer is someone you should check out!
I highly recommend you pick up this book.
October 21, 2018
Mistakes from the past can haunt or give opportunity for hope and forgiveness. In this heartwarming story, the characters are dealing with family issues and past mistakes. Will they forgive themselves and others and be able to move on to a bright future and the possibility of love? A story full of the reminder of the blessing of forgiveness. I received a copy of this book. This is my own personal opinion. No review was required.
January 8, 2025
Well written novella with Chance and Courtney having a history of being friends. They are both dealing with pasts that makes it hard for them to move forward, but romance is a second chance for them.
Friends first, their faith being strengthened, and finally letting go of the past to love again.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are mine alone.*
Friends first, their faith being strengthened, and finally letting go of the past to love again.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are mine alone.*
December 2, 2025
This was a beautiful romance story about a former NFL player, who had been to prison, and a beautiful widow who had lost everyone she loved. They were pen pals while Chase, the hero, was in prison and their letters gave them each hope and healing. I enjoyed this Christian love story and highly recommend it!
November 29, 2018
Good story!
A great story about two people, with pasts, who realize they need each other. I enjoyed both main characters as well as the secondary ones. A good, quick read for Christmas reading.
A great story about two people, with pasts, who realize they need each other. I enjoyed both main characters as well as the secondary ones. A good, quick read for Christmas reading.
July 21, 2023
Wonderful Christmas novella full of hope and a second chance for love.
The faith elements in the novella are very inspiring. I loved the way both Chase and Courtney grew in the faith and moved beyond their pasts.
Another delightful read from a great author.
The faith elements in the novella are very inspiring. I loved the way both Chase and Courtney grew in the faith and moved beyond their pasts.
Another delightful read from a great author.
November 10, 2018
Second Chances
I do love happily ever after books. This is how you do it. Enjoyed the story. Looking forward to reading more from Jill Kemerer.
I do love happily ever after books. This is how you do it. Enjoyed the story. Looking forward to reading more from Jill Kemerer.
December 16, 2022
Sweet and cute holiday romance.
December 23, 2023
Enjoyed this sweet novella of two hurting people overcoming their pasts and finding happiness. Good read and now I think I’ll investigate the Love inspired series this story is connected to!
January 10, 2025
This is a very sweet romance that has you championing second chances, faith and the power of love with the backdrop of Christmas. A feel good read.
February 27, 2025
What an amazing story about finding god, love and second chance.
March 9, 2025
A good, clean and wholesome story of second chances ---after bad choices, and after the death of a spouse.
March 11, 2025
This was a sweet, simple romance. The main characters' history caused some conflict, but the story wasn't angsty. Both were charming and relatable, and the circumstances were realistic.
August 20, 2025
I really loved this Christain read!! Great storyline. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
November 17, 2020
Excellent book!
Believe this is last book in Lake Series.
Not only do zi like Jill’s inspiration and references in Bible, but she has a great sense of humor!,
Would recommend entire series as well as this author and I think Jill has another book coming in Spring
Believe this is last book in Lake Series.
Not only do zi like Jill’s inspiration and references in Bible, but she has a great sense of humor!,
Would recommend entire series as well as this author and I think Jill has another book coming in Spring
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews