What do you think?
Rate this book
Second Chance
Ryder’s on the company bonding trip from hell, five days of competitive cycling with competitive colleagues and an even more competitive boss. Faced with yet another vertical climb, he ignores his uninvited, insistent inner cheerleader. No, he cannot keep up, and what’s more, he’s had enough. And the weather appears to agree he should stop, when sun turns in an instant to thick fog.
Callan’s at Whittaker’s Auction House to bid on fae land that his werewolf pack need as their new home, when an unsuspecting human stumbles through the door. Ryder is out of breath, out of luck, way out of his depth—and apparently the newest item on the auctioneer’s block. Unexpectedly tempting, if Callan had the money.
As the bidding heats up and Ryder proves dangerously irresistible to the assembled supernatural creatures, the situation grows more and more precarious. When Callan interferes, he puts his pack’s future in peril. Despite knowing how devious faeries can be, desperation makes Callan accept a deal, a chance to win the land for his pack and a future with Ryder. But it’s a risk. Possibly a deadly one.
This is not 'just another Valentine's story', it's a Barbara Elsborg Valentine's story (ish). So don't expect the usual sonnets and flowers and Cupids, but do expect the unexpected - vampires, weres, witches and warlocks. Oh, and a vengeful fae. Things are not quite as they may seem. You have been warned!
Callan’s at Whittaker’s Auction House to bid on fae land that his werewolf pack need as their new home, when an unsuspecting human stumbles through the door. Ryder is out of breath, out of luck, way out of his depth—and apparently the newest item on the auctioneer’s block. Unexpectedly tempting, if Callan had the money.
As the bidding heats up and Ryder proves dangerously irresistible to the assembled supernatural creatures, the situation grows more and more precarious. When Callan interferes, he puts his pack’s future in peril. Despite knowing how devious faeries can be, desperation makes Callan accept a deal, a chance to win the land for his pack and a future with Ryder. But it’s a risk. Possibly a deadly one.
This is not 'just another Valentine's story', it's a Barbara Elsborg Valentine's story (ish). So don't expect the usual sonnets and flowers and Cupids, but do expect the unexpected - vampires, weres, witches and warlocks. Oh, and a vengeful fae. Things are not quite as they may seem. You have been warned!
223 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 10, 2020
33 people are currently reading
301 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Elsborg
100 books1,679 followersBarbara Elsborg lives in Kent in the south of England. She always wanted to be a spy, but having confessed to everyone without them even resorting to torture, she decided it was not for her. Volcanology scorched her feet. A morbid fear of sharks put paid to marine biology. So instead, she spent several years successfully selling cyanide.
After dragging up two rotten, ungrateful children and frustrating her sexy, devoted, wonderful husband (who can now stop twisting her arm) she finally has time to conduct an affair with an electrifying plugged-in male, her laptop.
Her books feature quirky heroines and bad boys, and she hopes they are as much fun to read as they are to write.
After dragging up two rotten, ungrateful children and frustrating her sexy, devoted, wonderful husband (who can now stop twisting her arm) she finally has time to conduct an affair with an electrifying plugged-in male, her laptop.
Her books feature quirky heroines and bad boys, and she hopes they are as much fun to read as they are to write.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
January 21, 2020
Me during the first few chapters:
"Okay, if this dude doesn't stop talking to himself, to the point of internal arguments, I'm going to DNF the hell out of this story."Also me, a few chapters later:
"Oooooh, m'kay. Nevermind." hehI'll try my best not to be too spoilery, but basically Ryder, a London writer and magazine editor, took a spill on his bicycle and found himself in the Fae realm, being put up for sale on the auction block.
Then werewolf shifter Callan was torn between using his pack's money to buy a plot of land that they desperately needed versus bidding on Ryder to keep him safe.
But when Callan's vengeful Fae ex, Padraig, decided to fuck with them both, things got a lot more complicated, and fast.
There were deals struck with challenges to be passed, the first two of which I found really difficult to read.
All I can say is that there was WAAAAAAAAY too much sex involved during those "trials" for my tastes and leave it at that.
Thanks to the third "trial", which felt almost like a punishment for the first two, the tide of sex blessedly receded for quite a while, so I was able to enjoy an actual plot, which turned out to have a Big Twist that I enjoyed, even if I did see it coming early on.
Other than the third trial causing difficulties, a lot of the drama came from a pretty blatant act of betrayal, perpetrated by someone close to the MC's (for mostly unselfish reasons), but once revealed, I did like how pissed-off Callan and insecure Ryder stuck up for themselves and worked through the aftermath.
As the story wrapped up, I liked where the story had gone, and the HEA epilogue, but very much to my surprise, was truly sad when Ryder stopped talking to himself.
Don't ask, read the book. ;- )
I'd rate this story at around 3.75 stars and recommend it to shifter fans who can handle a whole lotta sex in a very short period of time.
-----------------------------------------------
My ARC copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)
-----------------------------------------------
February 21, 2020
This was....different.
And unexpected...yet expected.
I was lost...then found.
Cold...hot...and hotter.
Am I making any sense? Probably...not.
Sounds about right.
Seriously though, it was not surprising that I enjoyed this but it was surprising in itself. I’m a huge fan of Elsborg and relish in her flair, which spans all the way across the board. I have yet to work my way through her paranormal romance backlog but I look forward to the day I do. This story ran the lines of a novella but was packed full to the brim. I wasn’t entirely sure what was going on initially and wandered along, picking up pieces of the puzzle as the pages zipped by. The blurb grants us limited information and I’m going to follow suit. Sorry, but it’s for your own good!
Let’s see, why don’t we break down what we know…we know Ryder is on a bike trip with his coworkers and boss. We know he’s not thrilled to be subjected to such outdoor adventures aka torture. He also has a nagging inner monologue that doesn’t always agree with him or shut up. What we don’t know is how witty and adorable he is. He also has a generous heart, winning smile and pure soul. Sounds like quite the catch, doesn’t he? The fae realm (he’s accidentally stumbled into) agrees and quickly slips him into the list of potential prizes to be won at the auction house. Whoa!? Say what now? Oh yeah, that erratic weather, the spontaneous fog? Yep, I can assure you that bike accident was not an accident after all.
What happens when Ryder is tossed into the supernatural world? Callan is what happens. Who’s Callan? What do you mean?!
*sing-song voice* I’mm not telllling. Okay, fine…I’ll share a smidge more…
I found the hazy details intriguing and couldn’t wait to find out some answers. I wanted to know what in the world or otherworld was going on! Then as soon as I had the big ‘ah-ha!’ moment, my heart melted. However, I knew the guys may not agree with my sentiment and was on edge, nervous for them to put everything together. Would they be happy? Confused? Upset? Or a mix of all three? This was a bizarre and eccentric bunch. When the climax hit, some eager soul hit the repeat button multiple times. Quite honestly, I didn’t mind. Ha. Wolves are notoriously primal and often overzealous and their passion is not excluded. Elsborg pulls it all together and I was delighted with how it all played out.
Beware of: You’ll probably get lost…that’s the theme here, but never fear! You will be found. You’ll probably notice the pheromones and temperature rise, it definitely gets HOT in here. And I imagine you’ll grasp the moment of golden opportunity where fate says, how about another go?
This book is for: If you’re in the mood for a fun, quirky and extraordinary read…why not give this one a chance?
Book UNfunk
And unexpected...yet expected.
I was lost...then found.
Cold...hot...and hotter.
Am I making any sense? Probably...not.
Sounds about right.
Seriously though, it was not surprising that I enjoyed this but it was surprising in itself. I’m a huge fan of Elsborg and relish in her flair, which spans all the way across the board. I have yet to work my way through her paranormal romance backlog but I look forward to the day I do. This story ran the lines of a novella but was packed full to the brim. I wasn’t entirely sure what was going on initially and wandered along, picking up pieces of the puzzle as the pages zipped by. The blurb grants us limited information and I’m going to follow suit. Sorry, but it’s for your own good!
Let’s see, why don’t we break down what we know…we know Ryder is on a bike trip with his coworkers and boss. We know he’s not thrilled to be subjected to such outdoor adventures aka torture. He also has a nagging inner monologue that doesn’t always agree with him or shut up. What we don’t know is how witty and adorable he is. He also has a generous heart, winning smile and pure soul. Sounds like quite the catch, doesn’t he? The fae realm (he’s accidentally stumbled into) agrees and quickly slips him into the list of potential prizes to be won at the auction house. Whoa!? Say what now? Oh yeah, that erratic weather, the spontaneous fog? Yep, I can assure you that bike accident was not an accident after all.
What happens when Ryder is tossed into the supernatural world? Callan is what happens. Who’s Callan? What do you mean?!
*sing-song voice* I’mm not telllling. Okay, fine…I’ll share a smidge more…
I found the hazy details intriguing and couldn’t wait to find out some answers. I wanted to know what in the world or otherworld was going on! Then as soon as I had the big ‘ah-ha!’ moment, my heart melted. However, I knew the guys may not agree with my sentiment and was on edge, nervous for them to put everything together. Would they be happy? Confused? Upset? Or a mix of all three? This was a bizarre and eccentric bunch. When the climax hit, some eager soul hit the repeat button multiple times. Quite honestly, I didn’t mind. Ha. Wolves are notoriously primal and often overzealous and their passion is not excluded. Elsborg pulls it all together and I was delighted with how it all played out.
Beware of: You’ll probably get lost…that’s the theme here, but never fear! You will be found. You’ll probably notice the pheromones and temperature rise, it definitely gets HOT in here. And I imagine you’ll grasp the moment of golden opportunity where fate says, how about another go?
This book is for: If you’re in the mood for a fun, quirky and extraordinary read…why not give this one a chance?
Book UNfunk
February 11, 2020
Barbara Elsborg is one of my favorite (MM) authors. I especially love her PNR books and Inigo (Bloodline) is one of my all-time favorite characters. So when I found out she was releasing a new PNR story, I had to get my grabby hands on it :P
Second Chance is a shifter story and damn do I love me some werewolves. Which is what Callan is. Ryder meets Callan when a team-building excursion (cycling really??, the horror), turns into him ending up for auction...
I had a lot of fun reading this one, which is a given when reading one of Barbara's books. She can make me laugh my ass off, but she can also make me cry my eyes out. You never know what you're going to get, but you are always guaranteed to catch some feels. This book made me do both...as usual ;)
This one definitely has a case of insta-lust, but I don't really mind it since it is a PNR.
It also doesn't lack any steamy parts. Hot damn is all that I can say. I almost caught fire while reading.
If you're a fan of hot and steamy paranormal reads, with a dose of sweetness and a touch of quirkiness, then you should definitely give this one a try.
I myself especially liked Ryders inner talking...
4 stars ;)
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
Second Chance is a shifter story and damn do I love me some werewolves. Which is what Callan is. Ryder meets Callan when a team-building excursion (cycling really??, the horror), turns into him ending up for auction...
I had a lot of fun reading this one, which is a given when reading one of Barbara's books. She can make me laugh my ass off, but she can also make me cry my eyes out. You never know what you're going to get, but you are always guaranteed to catch some feels. This book made me do both...as usual ;)
This one definitely has a case of insta-lust, but I don't really mind it since it is a PNR.
It also doesn't lack any steamy parts. Hot damn is all that I can say. I almost caught fire while reading.
If you're a fan of hot and steamy paranormal reads, with a dose of sweetness and a touch of quirkiness, then you should definitely give this one a try.
I myself especially liked Ryders inner talking...
4 stars ;)
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
February 3, 2020
*3.5 stars*
I love Barbara Elsborg, and I read almost everything she writes, so I was really excited for Second Chance. On the plus side, it has that quirky humor and witty banter that I always associate with Barbara's work. However, without getting into any spoilers, I thought that the relationship had too many cooks in the kitchen.
I love when Barbara writes paranormals, but I wish this one had a less convoluted plot. Parts were really predictable, but I thought it just got to be a little over complicated. I would have killed for just a funny, well-written "fish out of water" paranormal romance. Through in some werewolves, dead-panning twinks, and oodles of hot sex and I'm a happy camper. But I felt like Barbara just couldn't help herself and the plot kept getting layers thrown on.
I might have been okay with some of the twists had everything not resolved so quickly. Simply put: I didn't buy that the romance was fully there between Ryder and Callan. I found the story to be charming and an easy read, but I thought it needed a lot more for me to squee over the romance.
A nice story from the always great Barbara Elsborg, even if it doesn't come close to my favorite Elsborg books.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
I love Barbara Elsborg, and I read almost everything she writes, so I was really excited for Second Chance. On the plus side, it has that quirky humor and witty banter that I always associate with Barbara's work. However, without getting into any spoilers, I thought that the relationship had too many cooks in the kitchen.
I love when Barbara writes paranormals, but I wish this one had a less convoluted plot. Parts were really predictable, but I thought it just got to be a little over complicated. I would have killed for just a funny, well-written "fish out of water" paranormal romance. Through in some werewolves, dead-panning twinks, and oodles of hot sex and I'm a happy camper. But I felt like Barbara just couldn't help herself and the plot kept getting layers thrown on.
I might have been okay with some of the twists had everything not resolved so quickly. Simply put: I didn't buy that the romance was fully there between Ryder and Callan. I found the story to be charming and an easy read, but I thought it needed a lot more for me to squee over the romance.
A nice story from the always great Barbara Elsborg, even if it doesn't come close to my favorite Elsborg books.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
February 10, 2021
Nothing about this story worked for me. It wasn't sexy or romantic or interesting.
You'd think a voyeuristic scene in the woods wherein the MCs must orgasm multiple times would be hot, but it so wasn't. Ryder would not stop talking, and there were so many quips and asides, I started skimming.
Don't get me started on the idiocy of the parents. What was the point of that twist? Why did Callan ever date the faerie anyway?
I also hate the idea behind the "talking heart." It was just something else to throw on the fire on top of werewolves, auctions, and amnesia.
I'm going with a big ol' NOPE. Even the ending left us hanging.
You'd think a voyeuristic scene in the woods wherein the MCs must orgasm multiple times would be hot, but it so wasn't. Ryder would not stop talking, and there were so many quips and asides, I started skimming.
Don't get me started on the idiocy of the parents. What was the point of that twist? Why did Callan ever date the faerie anyway?
I also hate the idea behind the "talking heart." It was just something else to throw on the fire on top of werewolves, auctions, and amnesia.
I'm going with a big ol' NOPE. Even the ending left us hanging.
February 8, 2020
3,5 stars rounded up
I'll start by admitting that I really enjoy Barbara Elsborg's writing. Each and every book written by her was special and different than I expected. This one makes no exception. It was a great surprise. I am not a big fan of paranormal stories, shapeshifters and all, but here it worked for me.
This story was surprising. It was very funny, and it was really hot!
Ryder is not happy to say the least about his team building trip, cycling and talking to himself most of the time. Then he gets to an auction house, meets Callan, and many supernatural creatures: werewolves, witches, faeries. This story gets exciting!
I really want to keep my review spoiler free, so you'll have to find out on your own what brought the main characters together. I'll admit I enjoyed the book, but I would have wanted a little more angst and my only complaint would be that everything fell into place too easily.
If you're a fan of paranormal stories, don't miss this one. It's actually extremely sweet and don't forget: HOT 🔥🔥🔥
I'll start by admitting that I really enjoy Barbara Elsborg's writing. Each and every book written by her was special and different than I expected. This one makes no exception. It was a great surprise. I am not a big fan of paranormal stories, shapeshifters and all, but here it worked for me.
This story was surprising. It was very funny, and it was really hot!
Ryder is not happy to say the least about his team building trip, cycling and talking to himself most of the time. Then he gets to an auction house, meets Callan, and many supernatural creatures: werewolves, witches, faeries. This story gets exciting!
I really want to keep my review spoiler free, so you'll have to find out on your own what brought the main characters together. I'll admit I enjoyed the book, but I would have wanted a little more angst and my only complaint would be that everything fell into place too easily.
If you're a fan of paranormal stories, don't miss this one. It's actually extremely sweet and don't forget: HOT 🔥🔥🔥
This review is posted on DirtyBooksObsession
February 20, 2020
The beginning was a bit rough.
I found it too drawn out. And the sex "challenges" were a struggle to get through. Once the 3rd "challenge" came around things picked up a bit for me.
I really enjoyed the rest of the story, even the plot twist.
Bonus there was plenty of BEs trademark banter.
I found it too drawn out. And the sex "challenges" were a struggle to get through. Once the 3rd "challenge" came around things picked up a bit for me.
I really enjoyed the rest of the story, even the plot twist.
Bonus there was plenty of BEs trademark banter.
December 3, 2022
An intense and very satisfying thriller from Barbara Elsborg! Delightfully dark, intense, and filled with Elsborg’s amazing paranormal characters, Second Chance held me at the edge of my seat through the whole story.
Wonderful!
Wonderful!
March 26, 2020
4,25 stars
Ahhh. I liked it.
Really liked it.
I was mystified. A teeny bit horrified maybe at what happens in the first half.
Mainly, I wondered what the heck was happening and why.
(Although I'm proud to report that for once, I did figure out one important element pretty soon!)
I laughed.
I cried at the end (but not because my heart was broken).
I totally rooted for cute and witty Ryder who is so brave and determined, despite his vulnerabilities.
As for the tall, dark and handsome rugged wolf … it’s hard to resist Callan and his wolfy insta-lust and love. (It’s what wolves do, right!).
And the banter between them is stellar!
What a fabulous mix of reality and the paranormal, of excellent snarky humour and amazing sizzle, and a plot that keeps you wanting to find out what’s actually going on!
I was intrigued.
And yes, maybe some aspects could have been explored more, but this was nothing more than an afterthought.
Ahhh. I liked it.
Really liked it.
I was mystified. A teeny bit horrified maybe at what happens in the first half.
Mainly, I wondered what the heck was happening and why.
(Although I'm proud to report that for once, I did figure out one important element pretty soon!)
I laughed.
I cried at the end (but not because my heart was broken).
I totally rooted for cute and witty Ryder who is so brave and determined, despite his vulnerabilities.
As for the tall, dark and handsome rugged wolf … it’s hard to resist Callan and his wolfy insta-lust and love. (It’s what wolves do, right!).
And the banter between them is stellar!
What a fabulous mix of reality and the paranormal, of excellent snarky humour and amazing sizzle, and a plot that keeps you wanting to find out what’s actually going on!
I was intrigued.
And yes, maybe some aspects could have been explored more, but this was nothing more than an afterthought.
January 22, 2020
I really, really loved the heck out of this. I spent an entire day with my kindle in my hands devouring this book.
Early on we figure out Ryder one has a sadist boss who thinks company bonding trips should include cycling for five days straight and two that he talks to himself : a lot.
But, if company bonding trips from Hell weren’t bad enough Ryder’s day takes a turn for the worse when he somehow finds himself apart of an auction to a room full of interesting people. The most interesting being Callan, a werewolf, who is there to try and get land for his pack but somehow finds himself buying Ryder instead.
He can have both for a cost and playing by a revenge hungry fae’s rules is apparently not a good idea
Although Ryder and Callan were thrown together quickly and had to get to know one another while having tons of steamy times — there was no ignoring the attraction between the two. I liked the last half of the story when everything truly comes together and watching Callan and Ryder really become one after some trail and error. It felt genuine.
The only thing I didn’t enjoy was when Ryder’s inner voice went away. I was very disappointed by that outcome, although I understood why, I still wished for something different...but other than that this book kept me on my toes. Every time I thought I had an aha! moment there was something else happening that made me gasp. And, boy, did I enjoy it. I walked away from this book wanting to read it all over with. It had everything I enjoyed wrapped into one single book...So, yes, you can say I loved it a lot.
I think anyone who enjoys mates, second chances and doesn’t mind perhaps a **bit** too much sex happening fast would enjoy this.
5 stars!!
♡ arc given in exchange for an honest review ♡
Early on we figure out Ryder one has a sadist boss who thinks company bonding trips should include cycling for five days straight and two that he talks to himself : a lot.
But, if company bonding trips from Hell weren’t bad enough Ryder’s day takes a turn for the worse when he somehow finds himself apart of an auction to a room full of interesting people. The most interesting being Callan, a werewolf, who is there to try and get land for his pack but somehow finds himself buying Ryder instead.
He can have both for a cost and playing by a revenge hungry fae’s rules is apparently not a good idea
Although Ryder and Callan were thrown together quickly and had to get to know one another while having tons of steamy times — there was no ignoring the attraction between the two. I liked the last half of the story when everything truly comes together and watching Callan and Ryder really become one after some trail and error. It felt genuine.
The only thing I didn’t enjoy was when Ryder’s inner voice went away. I was very disappointed by that outcome, although I understood why, I still wished for something different...but other than that this book kept me on my toes. Every time I thought I had an aha! moment there was something else happening that made me gasp. And, boy, did I enjoy it. I walked away from this book wanting to read it all over with. It had everything I enjoyed wrapped into one single book...So, yes, you can say I loved it a lot.
I think anyone who enjoys mates, second chances and doesn’t mind perhaps a **bit** too much sex happening fast would enjoy this.
5 stars!!
♡ arc given in exchange for an honest review ♡
January 12, 2020
I am SOOOOO in love with this story!!!
Barbara Elsborg did it again! She wrote a book that not only sucked me in the story right from the very first page, she wrote a story that made me laugh and then cry (in public!); and let me tell You - it doesn't happen often.
I loved this story with my whole heart, it is full of amazing characters, strong feelings, difficult choices, scorching hot sex scenes (that was FABULOUS!) and most importantly it is impossible to remain indifferent to what is going on with Ryder/Nico/Callan.
I loved the idea of inner voice, it was funny and sad in the same time (I wonder how Ryder felt, was it really that weird to talk with "himself"?). There is lots of sex here, but it is really hot and Ryder makes it funnier than I thought was possible :)
This is a BEAUTIFUL, heartwarming story with great, lovable MCs. It is humorous, kind of tragic, but also made me feel really good in the end.
Hopefully we'll get more stories including Callan and Nico's family!
Barbara Elsborg did it again! She wrote a book that not only sucked me in the story right from the very first page, she wrote a story that made me laugh and then cry (in public!); and let me tell You - it doesn't happen often.
I loved this story with my whole heart, it is full of amazing characters, strong feelings, difficult choices, scorching hot sex scenes (that was FABULOUS!) and most importantly it is impossible to remain indifferent to what is going on with Ryder/Nico/Callan.
I loved the idea of inner voice, it was funny and sad in the same time (I wonder how Ryder felt, was it really that weird to talk with "himself"?). There is lots of sex here, but it is really hot and Ryder makes it funnier than I thought was possible :)
This is a BEAUTIFUL, heartwarming story with great, lovable MCs. It is humorous, kind of tragic, but also made me feel really good in the end.
Hopefully we'll get more stories including Callan and Nico's family!
February 21, 2020
I really have no idea what to think about this one. I think part of it I've kind of blocked from my brain and other parts, while I enjoyed them, I don't know if I completely felt them.
Some of the timeline was confusing to me. I'm not the biggest fan of a dead mate and well, the part I've kind of blocked from my brain, well, I don't know if that was all that sexy really. It felt a little icky.
Like I said, I just don't know.
But, I love, love, love the Fae and even better, I love books that just throw all the Paranormal peeps in. Lions and Tigers and Bears oh my! Or, well, vamps and wolves and witches just to name a few.
Some of the timeline was confusing to me. I'm not the biggest fan of a dead mate and well, the part I've kind of blocked from my brain, well, I don't know if that was all that sexy really. It felt a little icky.
Like I said, I just don't know.
But, I love, love, love the Fae and even better, I love books that just throw all the Paranormal peeps in. Lions and Tigers and Bears oh my! Or, well, vamps and wolves and witches just to name a few.
February 10, 2020
I devoured this book in one go. I couldn’t stop laughing or smiling. My hubby looked at me like I was crazy and my boys looked at me like I’d finally lost it lol. I needed a good laugh and this achieved it in spades.
Ryder’s back chat towards Padraig was hilarious. I was rooting for him every time he retaliated to Padraig’s remarks. His quirky personality won my heart over.
Nico was an unexpected twist but my eyes welled up for everything that was lost and gained.
Ive never heard of this author until I read this book, but I’m definitely adding her to my favourite list.
Amazing book with plenty of humour and heat.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one elses*
Ryder’s back chat towards Padraig was hilarious. I was rooting for him every time he retaliated to Padraig’s remarks. His quirky personality won my heart over.
Nico was an unexpected twist but my eyes welled up for everything that was lost and gained.
Ive never heard of this author until I read this book, but I’m definitely adding her to my favourite list.
Amazing book with plenty of humour and heat.
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one elses*
January 15, 2020
I intended to read for an hour before bed. I should know better by now with one of Barbara’s books. God knows what time of the early morning it was before I finished, but I regret nothing!
This was a paranormal tale, with the fae, werewolves, a vamp, and plenty of fast-paced action to move things along. I felt so wretched for Ryder from the start, and then it only got worse. His internal voice was beautifully done, and when he and Callan were together the sparks flew and my heart stumbled because I knew something would go wrong.
Unusually for me I clued in fairly early (again by my standards, not anyone else’s) what the twist was, but then there was more, and then more again. It was impossible to put this down until everything was resolved and I could breathe again.
Loved it.
This was a paranormal tale, with the fae, werewolves, a vamp, and plenty of fast-paced action to move things along. I felt so wretched for Ryder from the start, and then it only got worse. His internal voice was beautifully done, and when he and Callan were together the sparks flew and my heart stumbled because I knew something would go wrong.
Unusually for me I clued in fairly early (again by my standards, not anyone else’s) what the twist was, but then there was more, and then more again. It was impossible to put this down until everything was resolved and I could breathe again.
Loved it.
February 18, 2020
2.5 I have no idea why this didn’t work for me. I absolutely love BE books usually.
Might have to come back to it and read again with a fresh mind another time
Might have to come back to it and read again with a fresh mind another time
February 10, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Author Barbara Elsborg dips into the paranormal world with the valentine-themed romance, Second Chance. Moving back and forth between the enchanted land of the fae and the regular world, poor Ryder swears he must be hallucinating every moment he spends in the hands of the mystical creatures that inhabit the world he was so suddenly dropped into after he crashed on his bike. But once he and Callan fulfill the three acts they must perform in order for Ryder to be free and Callan to get the lands his pack so desperately needs, Ryder realizes the entire time he spent with the fae and Callan was real. A shocking secret is revealed once Ryder returns home that makes him worry that all the attraction he felt for Callan was one sided and based on a lie. As Ryder fights to find Callan, he hopes that in doing so not only will he get back what he has lost due to the fae’s trickery, but also find out for sure if what Callan and he felt for each other was real.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Author Barbara Elsborg dips into the paranormal world with the valentine-themed romance, Second Chance. Moving back and forth between the enchanted land of the fae and the regular world, poor Ryder swears he must be hallucinating every moment he spends in the hands of the mystical creatures that inhabit the world he was so suddenly dropped into after he crashed on his bike. But once he and Callan fulfill the three acts they must perform in order for Ryder to be free and Callan to get the lands his pack so desperately needs, Ryder realizes the entire time he spent with the fae and Callan was real. A shocking secret is revealed once Ryder returns home that makes him worry that all the attraction he felt for Callan was one sided and based on a lie. As Ryder fights to find Callan, he hopes that in doing so not only will he get back what he has lost due to the fae’s trickery, but also find out for sure if what Callan and he felt for each other was real.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
February 4, 2020
A completely unique and intriguing tale! Some of the twists we’re foreseeable, some completely out of left field, but all made for a very compelling story. From the very beginning I was hooked, and it never once got boring. There is a lot of sex right there at the beginning, so I’d caution you if that isn’t your thing, but if you didn’t still give this book a chance, you’d be missing out. Ryder and Callan are scorching together, but they also have wonderful, hilarious, and loving conversations. This was my first book by this author (I’m pretty sure) but I’ll definitely be looking for more.
February 19, 2020
3.5 stars
Gah. Initially, there was just so much here to like. It’s funny and sweet, with cool world-building and when Ryder gets “lost” and meets Callen at a fae auction I was onboard with the sexy, never-ending shenanigans, as well as the set up for the next part.
But when the “twist” came I was both under and overwhelmed. It could have turned into an awesome angsty game of Fox and Wolf against their worlds. But instead it turned into a “Maid Marian” novel. The ending, though sappy and sweet, was also disappointing because it was so easy. And as a another reviewer noted...too many cooks in the kitchen.
Worth the read but the resolution won’t be for everyone. Or maybe I’m just picky.
Gah. Initially, there was just so much here to like. It’s funny and sweet, with cool world-building and when Ryder gets “lost” and meets Callen at a fae auction I was onboard with the sexy, never-ending shenanigans, as well as the set up for the next part.
But when the “twist” came I was both under and overwhelmed. It could have turned into an awesome angsty game of Fox and Wolf against their worlds. But instead it turned into a “Maid Marian” novel. The ending, though sappy and sweet, was also disappointing because it was so easy. And as a another reviewer noted...too many cooks in the kitchen.
Worth the read but the resolution won’t be for everyone. Or maybe I’m just picky.
Read
March 16, 2020DNF. Not going to rate this. Might have to come back at later time. BE doesn't do much description of places and situation and coming out from another book this really bugs me.
February 13, 2020
Second Chance is the sweetest from Barbara Elsborg. I expected that there's some hurtful twist as usual, but realized that this is a valentine's story. Phew! I was kinda relieved, because aside of what Ryder and Callan had been through after the fae, Pandraig, did the magic to both of them, Callan and Ryder deserved to be happy and find each other.
I like Ryder and his motormouth, you know, the one that never stopped talking, until 'one deal' made him stopped.
But Ryder has a heart of Nico, someone close to Callan in the past. I think Callan and Ryder needed to thank Nico for their 'finally' a happy ending story.
Second Chance was hard to put down, I finished it in one sitting and it was a really good sign according my lazy behavior lately.
Second Chance was entertaining and made me happy.
It's all that matters.
Recommended.
I like Ryder and his motormouth, you know, the one that never stopped talking, until 'one deal' made him stopped.
But Ryder has a heart of Nico, someone close to Callan in the past. I think Callan and Ryder needed to thank Nico for their 'finally' a happy ending story.
Second Chance was hard to put down, I finished it in one sitting and it was a really good sign according my lazy behavior lately.
Second Chance was entertaining and made me happy.
It's all that matters.
Recommended.
Read
February 17, 2020This is a well written Barbara Elsborg book, complete with humour and characters who, for most, should gel in a very romantic way.
February 13, 2020
very good story.. fun and interesting.. it made me smile and happy.. it made me interested and kept me going until it was over and then i was wishing there was more haha. i loved it
February 16, 2020
3.5
... and if I ever want to remember how I felt about it I have to read Heather K's review
... and if I ever want to remember how I felt about it I have to read Heather K's review
January 18, 2020
What can I say,I love Barbara's books and this was no exception,loved this paranormal tale of werewolves, a vampire, Fae and a human Ryder.
This story had every in spades,from emotional scenes to laugh out loud scenes,the chemistry between Callam and Ryder was smoking hot and the sex was steamy.
This was a second chance story of love in the most unexpected of places where nothing is as it seems as there are things going on that they have no idea about.
This story sucked me in from the very beginning and never let me go until I had devoured this in one read,this is a feel good story of tragic events that bring two people together that find love.
This book has it all, it was a heart warming story with lovable characters that you will route for all the way through till the end.
This story had every in spades,from emotional scenes to laugh out loud scenes,the chemistry between Callam and Ryder was smoking hot and the sex was steamy.
This was a second chance story of love in the most unexpected of places where nothing is as it seems as there are things going on that they have no idea about.
This story sucked me in from the very beginning and never let me go until I had devoured this in one read,this is a feel good story of tragic events that bring two people together that find love.
This book has it all, it was a heart warming story with lovable characters that you will route for all the way through till the end.
January 18, 2020
I received an ARC from the author.
This story was so amazing...sad, thrilling, romantic, and the plot was so unique! Callan is a werewolf. Ryder is a human heart transplant recipient who becomes trapped in a fog and ends up at an auction...as one of the items to be sold!
Padraig, a fairy with a grudge against Callan, attempts to manipulate Ryder and Callan, when Callan tries to buy fairy land for his pack. Kern, Padraig's brother, intervenes and assists Ryder and Callan in winning a battle of wills against Padraig.
Throw in some interfering parents, fae magic, and a dead ex who talks to your new love interest and you have a wonderfully entertaining novel!
This story was so amazing...sad, thrilling, romantic, and the plot was so unique! Callan is a werewolf. Ryder is a human heart transplant recipient who becomes trapped in a fog and ends up at an auction...as one of the items to be sold!
Padraig, a fairy with a grudge against Callan, attempts to manipulate Ryder and Callan, when Callan tries to buy fairy land for his pack. Kern, Padraig's brother, intervenes and assists Ryder and Callan in winning a battle of wills against Padraig.
Throw in some interfering parents, fae magic, and a dead ex who talks to your new love interest and you have a wonderfully entertaining novel!
January 10, 2020
I really loved this book . Once I started reading I couldn't put it down until I finished it around midnight. So five stars from me.
It is a paranormal romance with werewolves, faeries and humans.
There is some angst at the beginning, but there are also a lot of funny dialogues and plenty of steam.
This book is very emotional with a second chance of living for Ryker and a second chance of finding love for Callan.
It is a paranormal romance with werewolves, faeries and humans.
There is some angst at the beginning, but there are also a lot of funny dialogues and plenty of steam.
This book is very emotional with a second chance of living for Ryker and a second chance of finding love for Callan.
February 12, 2020
3.5 Stars - It’s a Merry-Go-Round!
This was, I believe, my first Elsborg book, and it was a doozy. I wasn’t certain how I felt about Ryder as he has these internal conversations that just never stop because they started to really annoy me…and then they suddenly didn’t, and they were wonderful! Confusing, but wonderful. I can’t say why or I’ll spoil the whole, so suffice it to say, it’s worth continuing even if you get frustrated with inner monologue.
Callan seems to have the world’s worst luck, but he and his wolf agree on one thing – Ryder is theirs. He’s got a specific task to accomplish for his pack at this auction, but he can’t shake the feeling that he needs Ryder. Cue the most obnoxious fae I’ve ever read in any book ever! I’m not even going there because it’s two weeks since I read the book as I write this and I still loathe him.
The plot is super convoluted, sometimes predictable, sometimes completely unexpected, sometimes way over the top. I enjoyed the setup of the world(s?)…I never really got a clear picture on that particular piece, but it was awesome nonetheless. The secondary characters are, IMHO, entirely over the top drama llamas. Yes, they push the story along, but I wanted to smack the crap out of them more than a few times. Character growth isn’t massive on either side, but there is definitely more of it on Ryder’s part, and this poor little vegan dealing with meat-devouring werewolves made me giggle every time I thought about it.
This is a fun read, not too long, but packed tightly with a lot of action and an infinite number of sexy times. If you’re looking for something fairly light-hearted (which I know sounds bizarre considering the whole drama llama aspect, but it really is a fairly bright book) and you enjoy shifter stories, I recommend picking this one up. The new angles the author uses to deviate from the standard shifter formulas are exciting. I’m rating this at 3.5 stars.
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this book for Divine Magazine from the author, Barbara Elsborg, with hopes for but no obligation to provide a review.
**Same worded review will also appear on Divine Magazine and Amazon.com.**
This was, I believe, my first Elsborg book, and it was a doozy. I wasn’t certain how I felt about Ryder as he has these internal conversations that just never stop because they started to really annoy me…and then they suddenly didn’t, and they were wonderful! Confusing, but wonderful. I can’t say why or I’ll spoil the whole, so suffice it to say, it’s worth continuing even if you get frustrated with inner monologue.
Callan seems to have the world’s worst luck, but he and his wolf agree on one thing – Ryder is theirs. He’s got a specific task to accomplish for his pack at this auction, but he can’t shake the feeling that he needs Ryder. Cue the most obnoxious fae I’ve ever read in any book ever! I’m not even going there because it’s two weeks since I read the book as I write this and I still loathe him.
The plot is super convoluted, sometimes predictable, sometimes completely unexpected, sometimes way over the top. I enjoyed the setup of the world(s?)…I never really got a clear picture on that particular piece, but it was awesome nonetheless. The secondary characters are, IMHO, entirely over the top drama llamas. Yes, they push the story along, but I wanted to smack the crap out of them more than a few times. Character growth isn’t massive on either side, but there is definitely more of it on Ryder’s part, and this poor little vegan dealing with meat-devouring werewolves made me giggle every time I thought about it.
This is a fun read, not too long, but packed tightly with a lot of action and an infinite number of sexy times. If you’re looking for something fairly light-hearted (which I know sounds bizarre considering the whole drama llama aspect, but it really is a fairly bright book) and you enjoy shifter stories, I recommend picking this one up. The new angles the author uses to deviate from the standard shifter formulas are exciting. I’m rating this at 3.5 stars.
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this book for Divine Magazine from the author, Barbara Elsborg, with hopes for but no obligation to provide a review.
**Same worded review will also appear on Divine Magazine and Amazon.com.**
April 14, 2021
A deeper story than you think at first
4.5 stars
Second Chance is a standalone MM Romance with a HEA. PNR / fantasy, shifters (werewolves), fae
insta-attraction, second chance. 160p. 2 POV. Third person. Past tense. 160 pages. This edition February 10th, 2020.
The story here was unusual to say the least. Not easy to guess at all what's the actual deal with some particulars and what's happening and why. All will be revealed in good time. Very imaginative - but the author has shown to have an excellent imagination besides excellent writing skills. The story isn't only a PNR/fantasy story, it's also very strongly MM in essential ways we readers very much look forward to. That is to say, when it got going, it also got hot. And the happenings and the framework for it wasn't very run of the mill nor boring. But this author's good at creating the unique.
The message was after all very much about ... love. Loving, and how far love can reach and how much it can give us, even unselfishly.
4.5 stars
Second Chance is a standalone MM Romance with a HEA. PNR / fantasy, shifters (werewolves), fae
insta-attraction, second chance. 160p. 2 POV. Third person. Past tense. 160 pages. This edition February 10th, 2020.
The story here was unusual to say the least. Not easy to guess at all what's the actual deal with some particulars and what's happening and why. All will be revealed in good time. Very imaginative - but the author has shown to have an excellent imagination besides excellent writing skills. The story isn't only a PNR/fantasy story, it's also very strongly MM in essential ways we readers very much look forward to. That is to say, when it got going, it also got hot. And the happenings and the framework for it wasn't very run of the mill nor boring. But this author's good at creating the unique.
The message was after all very much about ... love. Loving, and how far love can reach and how much it can give us, even unselfishly.
February 11, 2020
I have no idea what's happening to me but the streak of underwhelm continues. There is a lot I enjoyed in this book because Barbara Elsborg is the bomb. It's imaginative, has some genuinely funny moments and both Callan and Ryder are very likable. But all of that said, I wanted more romance. The two main characters don't get to spend much time getting to know each other. The initial meeting is complicated by the challenge and time constraints and I found it very stressful to read. The second half, our characters spend largely apart (but this was my favourite part). It's different and it's a short one so I'd still say it's worth the read but I wanted more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews