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Summer of Second Chances: A Moonwater Lake Novel
Shelby, at sweet sixteen, finds herself without friends, a place to call home, and still waiting for her first kiss. At the mercy of yet another move, she’s left to spend the summer with her grandmother at Moonwater Lake. Theo, a widowed, elderly man in town suggests she start a dog-walking business. Sometimes all it takes is one bright idea and an abundance of dogs to bond two unlikely friends and show them that dreams can still come true.
Theo is grieving the precious memories of his fifty-year marriage. If not for his aging beagle, Wally, he wouldn’t have a reason to get out of bed in the morning, much less go for walks. Theo is pleasantly surprised by his awakened feelings of hope, after crossing paths with Shelby and her grandmother.
It’s turning out to be a summer of many things; a summer of healing and starting over. A summer of friendship and unconditional love that will remind Shelby, Theo, and the town of Moonwater Lake that it’s never too late for second chances.
Theo is grieving the precious memories of his fifty-year marriage. If not for his aging beagle, Wally, he wouldn’t have a reason to get out of bed in the morning, much less go for walks. Theo is pleasantly surprised by his awakened feelings of hope, after crossing paths with Shelby and her grandmother.
It’s turning out to be a summer of many things; a summer of healing and starting over. A summer of friendship and unconditional love that will remind Shelby, Theo, and the town of Moonwater Lake that it’s never too late for second chances.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 9, 2020
494 people are currently reading
1104 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Hurst
9 books259 followersWhen not writing, visiting local farmer’s markets, or indulging her love for dark chocolate, Andrea enjoys meeting fans at signings and working as an editor for other authors. She writes hopeful books in charming settings that take readers on uplifting journeys and leaves them with lasting impressions. She lives with her rescue poodle, Ellie, near Raleigh, North Carolina.
Her published books include the Amazon bestseller, The Guestbook, Tea & Comfort, and Island Thyme Café. Two novellas have been added to the Madrona Island trilogy, including Madrona Island: B&B and Christmas on Madrona Island. Her other publications are Always with You, The Lazy Dog’s Guide to Enlightenment and Everybody’s Natural Foods Cookbook, and she co-authored A Book of Miracles: Inspiring True Stories of Healing, Gratitude, and Love with Dr. Bernie Siegel.
To be alerted of upcoming new releases and receive contest and giveaway notifications, please follow her on Facebook where she shares beautiful pictures of the island, new recipes and, of course, photos of Ellie. Newsletter subscribers enjoy special bonus content as well.
Become more involved and join the Lavender Lane community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Andre...
Follow Andrea on social media!
Instagram: instagram.com/andreahurst_author
Twitter: twitter.com/AndreaHurst_
Facebook: facebook.com/andreahurstauthor
Her published books include the Amazon bestseller, The Guestbook, Tea & Comfort, and Island Thyme Café. Two novellas have been added to the Madrona Island trilogy, including Madrona Island: B&B and Christmas on Madrona Island. Her other publications are Always with You, The Lazy Dog’s Guide to Enlightenment and Everybody’s Natural Foods Cookbook, and she co-authored A Book of Miracles: Inspiring True Stories of Healing, Gratitude, and Love with Dr. Bernie Siegel.
To be alerted of upcoming new releases and receive contest and giveaway notifications, please follow her on Facebook where she shares beautiful pictures of the island, new recipes and, of course, photos of Ellie. Newsletter subscribers enjoy special bonus content as well.
Become more involved and join the Lavender Lane community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Andre...
Follow Andrea on social media!
Instagram: instagram.com/andreahurst_author
Twitter: twitter.com/AndreaHurst_
Facebook: facebook.com/andreahurstauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
July 30, 2020
4.5 stars
Summer of Second Chances feels like a gigantic hug.
“Grief is just love with nowhere to go.” This quote by Jamie Anderson is the epigraph to this beautiful book, and it’s just so appropriate.
Sixteen-year-old Shelby has never had any sense of permanence in her life. Her mother is always chasing after another man, moving them around, never letting her stay in one place long enough to make friends or become part of something. And just when she’s hoping to train as a lifeguard over the summer, her mother is going on a cross-country trip with a new boyfriend and will be dropping Shelby in Moonwater Lake to stay with her grandmother, Alice.
Staying with Alice is the best thing that can happen for Shelby. Alice hasn’t been the same since her husband died, and Shelby is determined to help her get on with things. Not long after arriving in town, while walking Alice's dog, Shelby meets Theo, a lonely widower with an elderly dog, and he suggests she start a dog-walking business.
It’s not long before Shelby has become a part of the town, walking dogs and friending people clearly in need of a smiling face. She also meets Logan, a neighbor and handsome lifeguard, who makes her feel special. And Shelby’s energy is infectious—people in Moonwater Lake find their lives changing through her inspiration, including Alice and Theo.
But what happens when Shelby’s mom is ready to come back and take her to another new town, another new school? Does she have to give up her chance at happiness again?
It doesn’t matter that you can predict pretty much everything that will happen in this book. It is so sweet and charming and warm that I devoured it, and Andrea Hurst’s imagery made this a place I wish I could see for real. (Plus, I smelled waffle cones every time she mentioned them.)
If you love dogs and/or utterly endearing books about love and friendship and second chances, here’s a great one for you.
I was fortunate to be part of the blog tour for this book. Kate Rock Book Tours and Andrea Hurst provided a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making it available!!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Summer of Second Chances feels like a gigantic hug.
“Grief is just love with nowhere to go.” This quote by Jamie Anderson is the epigraph to this beautiful book, and it’s just so appropriate.
Sixteen-year-old Shelby has never had any sense of permanence in her life. Her mother is always chasing after another man, moving them around, never letting her stay in one place long enough to make friends or become part of something. And just when she’s hoping to train as a lifeguard over the summer, her mother is going on a cross-country trip with a new boyfriend and will be dropping Shelby in Moonwater Lake to stay with her grandmother, Alice.
Staying with Alice is the best thing that can happen for Shelby. Alice hasn’t been the same since her husband died, and Shelby is determined to help her get on with things. Not long after arriving in town, while walking Alice's dog, Shelby meets Theo, a lonely widower with an elderly dog, and he suggests she start a dog-walking business.
It’s not long before Shelby has become a part of the town, walking dogs and friending people clearly in need of a smiling face. She also meets Logan, a neighbor and handsome lifeguard, who makes her feel special. And Shelby’s energy is infectious—people in Moonwater Lake find their lives changing through her inspiration, including Alice and Theo.
But what happens when Shelby’s mom is ready to come back and take her to another new town, another new school? Does she have to give up her chance at happiness again?
It doesn’t matter that you can predict pretty much everything that will happen in this book. It is so sweet and charming and warm that I devoured it, and Andrea Hurst’s imagery made this a place I wish I could see for real. (Plus, I smelled waffle cones every time she mentioned them.)
If you love dogs and/or utterly endearing books about love and friendship and second chances, here’s a great one for you.
I was fortunate to be part of the blog tour for this book. Kate Rock Book Tours and Andrea Hurst provided a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making it available!!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
July 18, 2020
Excellent story! Refreshing for the heart, and uplifting to read. I’d say teenagers on up in age can read this book. There is a sweet teenage romance, plus an elderly ‘second chance’ romance. No violence, or graphic language—clean, sweet, home, hearth, and family style reading. Wonderful, engaging characters! Lots of dogs throughout the story for pet lover’s like myself! I highly recommend, and I’m thrilled to have found a new author to enjoy!
August 24, 2020
This is a light read. On the back of the cover it states " Heartwarming novel of hope and second chances".
The story is set in Moonwater Lake.
Shelby is a 16 year old girl who has been sent to stay with her grandmother for the summer by her mother who has a new boyfriend and can't be bothered with Shelby.
Shelby wants a stable, normal life, one that does not include moving every few months and to finish high school, go to college, all the things that most kids her age get a chance to do.
Shelby goes out to walk her grandmother's dog and meets Theo. Theo is an older widowed gentleman that lives in town and is still trying to get over the death of his wonderful wife.
Theo suggests she start a dog walking business.
This bright idea starts to bring people together.
And gets her grandmother out of the house who also happens to be grieving her husband's passing.
As Theo, Shelby and her grandmother start to get involved and help each other and the local dogs, they start to see that maybe they all can have a second chance in their lives.
A lovely story about how helping others and caring can help everyone.
Will be looking for other stories from this author.
The story is set in Moonwater Lake.
Shelby is a 16 year old girl who has been sent to stay with her grandmother for the summer by her mother who has a new boyfriend and can't be bothered with Shelby.
Shelby wants a stable, normal life, one that does not include moving every few months and to finish high school, go to college, all the things that most kids her age get a chance to do.
Shelby goes out to walk her grandmother's dog and meets Theo. Theo is an older widowed gentleman that lives in town and is still trying to get over the death of his wonderful wife.
Theo suggests she start a dog walking business.
This bright idea starts to bring people together.
And gets her grandmother out of the house who also happens to be grieving her husband's passing.
As Theo, Shelby and her grandmother start to get involved and help each other and the local dogs, they start to see that maybe they all can have a second chance in their lives.
A lovely story about how helping others and caring can help everyone.
Will be looking for other stories from this author.
July 17, 2020
This book will warm your heart and soul! I would read this any time of the year!
There was so much to Shelby's story I could relate to, and the author really knew how to bring depth to not just the story but each character. Through all of the ups and downs in the book, this was not just a good summer read, it will teach you to never take life for granite and what it means to truly be selfless. Just like the old "Chicken Soup For The Soul" books, this book will warm your heart and keeping you on the edge of your seat. This is the first time I heard of this author a d I look forward to more of her work. Very well done!
There was so much to Shelby's story I could relate to, and the author really knew how to bring depth to not just the story but each character. Through all of the ups and downs in the book, this was not just a good summer read, it will teach you to never take life for granite and what it means to truly be selfless. Just like the old "Chicken Soup For The Soul" books, this book will warm your heart and keeping you on the edge of your seat. This is the first time I heard of this author a d I look forward to more of her work. Very well done!
June 22, 2020
Summer of Second Chances was a very cute, and in my opinion summer read. The book was humorous at places, and a fun read. It shows the love between dogs and their humans. Shelby is going to live with her grandmother for the summer as her mom goes on a vacation with a new boyfriend. What follows is Shelby's coming of age storyline, she grows into a young lady and makes her own decisions. I would certainly recommend this book to others. I received the book and am under no obligation to give a review. All opinions here are my own.
October 3, 2020
Shelby has always bounced from city to city with her mother, not giving her a chance to gain friendships or find a place to call home. When she is told that she will be spending the summer months with her grandmother at Moonwater Lake, she goes begrudgingly but will it be the opportunity that she needs to find a home. Andrea Hurst takes us on a heartwarming adventure as we spend the summer in Moonwater Lake and are asked the question are second chances possible? I loved this story about friendship and family. The relationships and the characters kept me wanting to keep reading.
June 13, 2020
This heartwarming book offers a look into some of the lives of the residents of Moonlake. No matter young, old or for that matter even a dog, they all need something or someone to bring back a sense of caring and love into their lives. With a new purpose they are drawn together and learn they can take a second chance at living and loving again.
Thank you Author, Andrea Hurst, for an ARC of this book.
The review and comments are my honest opinion.
Thank you Author, Andrea Hurst, for an ARC of this book.
The review and comments are my honest opinion.
June 13, 2020
I absolutely fell in love with Moonwater Lake! It is a story of learning how to deal with life's sorrows and to move forward. The dogs are major characters in the story. Loved every minute of it! Please Andrea Hurst bring us another story in Moonwater Lake.
September 17, 2020
Thanks to Kate Rock Book Tours and Andrea Hurst for my copy of Summer of Second Chances and including me on this book tour! I'm the first stop of this tour, so check out the other reviews of this heartwarming book.
At 16 Shelby has never really had stability in her life. While she was hoping that she'd get to be a lifeguard for the summer, her mom has different plans to travel around the country with her new boyfriend, so Shelby ends up at her Grandma's for the summer in Moonwater Lake. With an idea from her grandma's friends to start a dog walking business Shelby finally feels the connections she's been missing and finally starts to feel like she has a home. The dog walking and the idea to create a dog park bring together a group that learns it's never too late for a second chance at life, love or even a second dog!
I loved the town of Moonwater Lake and Shelby. There are lots of cute pups in the book and sweet young love and the idea of finding love again after loss. This was a sweet and fun read and I wish I had my own Moonwater Lake to escape to. I know it's inching into fall but if you're looking for a cute savoring summer read, check this one out! It is currently available!
At 16 Shelby has never really had stability in her life. While she was hoping that she'd get to be a lifeguard for the summer, her mom has different plans to travel around the country with her new boyfriend, so Shelby ends up at her Grandma's for the summer in Moonwater Lake. With an idea from her grandma's friends to start a dog walking business Shelby finally feels the connections she's been missing and finally starts to feel like she has a home. The dog walking and the idea to create a dog park bring together a group that learns it's never too late for a second chance at life, love or even a second dog!
I loved the town of Moonwater Lake and Shelby. There are lots of cute pups in the book and sweet young love and the idea of finding love again after loss. This was a sweet and fun read and I wish I had my own Moonwater Lake to escape to. I know it's inching into fall but if you're looking for a cute savoring summer read, check this one out! It is currently available!
September 19, 2020
Pretty much any book that has delightful dogs in it gets my seal of approval. I loved how Shelby’s independence grew as she started her dog walking business and how she flourished under stability at her grandmothers. Of course first love, an elderly love match and more made this a worthwhile read.
June 20, 2020
This heartwarming book was fun to read, and it was hard to put the book down! Shelby’s mother is somewhat unstable, and moves them around every time she finds a new boyfriend. Shelby has attended more schools than she can count and would like to stay somewhere long enough to make some friends. After yet another of her mother’s boyfriends wants to go to Florida, Shelby is left to spend the summer with her grandmother. She starts a dog walking business at the suggestion of an older man she meets on a walk. Through her business and the dogs, she makes new friends and realizes she doesn’t want to leave. She and her grandmother must convince her mother to allow Shelby to continue to live with her grandmother while she attends two more years of high school in this town. Will they succeed? There are also lots of yummy sounding recipes at the end of the book. I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 14, 2020
I was thinking that Shelby was going to be spending a fun summer with her Grandmother as I started to read. Since her Mom was leaving her there as she went off with the new boyfriend. Moonwater Lake was so much more. Residents of all ages, even dogs of all ages. Each needing stability, a friend, someone that cares, that special person that makes you smile. A second chance at new beginnings. This book was so heartwarming.
Relax and enjoy this delightful story.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it. Thank you Andrea Hurst.
Relax and enjoy this delightful story.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it. Thank you Andrea Hurst.
June 24, 2020
What a delightful read about a variety of second chances! I really enjoyed the integral part the dogs played in this story. Smooth writing made the story flow and easy to read. The characters were easy to relate to. I'm ready to head to the lake for the summer!
Thank you to the author for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
Thank you to the author for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
July 14, 2020
Andrea Hurst you've done it again. What a beautiful, heart felt story. Great summer beach read, or anytime of year read. This story covers all the feelings. So happy to have been given this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 22, 2020
New author
Not used to reading young adult books but I truely enjoyed this one. It also is great reading a book without having to cringe at and language. A very nice read.
Not used to reading young adult books but I truely enjoyed this one. It also is great reading a book without having to cringe at and language. A very nice read.
September 22, 2020
First, let me say the cover alone I would love to hang in my house - it is just that stunning and beautiful!!
A quick overview- Shelby, an old soul 16 year old, goes to live for the summer with her Grandmother Alice in Moonwater Lake when Shelby’s mom, Dana, heads out with a new boyfriend down to Florida. Shelby starts a successful dog walking business, makes friends that become like family, and has her first love.
My thoughts on this story- I LOVED this book! I think with the climate of our world right now that this is a perfect read to feel a sense of community and a spirit of love and dedication as all ages and people with all kinds of baggage help each other and lift each other up! This book begins and ends in the present at Shelby’s wedding and the middle takes us back ten years to tell the story of how Shelby got to where she was today! The connection with the dogs was just spectacular as well and shows how people are affected in such a positive way by having a fur baby! I love all the characters (except Dana- she is a narcissist) and became absolutely engrossed in their stories. Finally, even though the word Summer is in the title, you can read this book in any season for an uplifting read to see that people between ages 16-75 can all find love and work together to make each other stronger!
Thank you to the author and Kate Rock book tours for the opportunity to spotlight this book!
July 1, 2020
Wow. It’s one of the best books I’ve ever read.
It has stayed with me and had me reflecting on myself, my young love experience. I’m a huge dog fan. My seniors are my world. I worried about Wally in this book, because I can identify. All of the characters tugged on my heartstrings. I was rooting for all of their happiness, especially Theo, Alice & Shelby. I love the description of the town of Moonwater Lake. I want to live there! The friendship and support they had is like no other, not to mention a sweet, small town with a lake! I also like the format of starting out with the prologue, reading their stories and then the epilogue!
Completely in love with this book!.
It has stayed with me and had me reflecting on myself, my young love experience. I’m a huge dog fan. My seniors are my world. I worried about Wally in this book, because I can identify. All of the characters tugged on my heartstrings. I was rooting for all of their happiness, especially Theo, Alice & Shelby. I love the description of the town of Moonwater Lake. I want to live there! The friendship and support they had is like no other, not to mention a sweet, small town with a lake! I also like the format of starting out with the prologue, reading their stories and then the epilogue!
Completely in love with this book!.
September 12, 2020
Shelby is sixteen and never been kissed. She spends the Summer with her grandmother at Moonwater Lake. Her new neighbor Logan is a hot lifeguard that Shelby finds has problems with his father like she has with her mother.
She befriends Theo an elderly neighbor and his dog Wally. Theo suggest she start a dog walking business. With the help of her grandmother Alice her dog walking business expands. Sparks start to fly between Alice and Theo.
Theo offers his yard for a dog play area. With all the help with her new friends, they start the Lonely Hearts Dog Club. But at they end of the book, there are no lonely hearts. With the help of their dogs, love abounds in Moonwater Lake.
The Summer of Second chances is a wonderful heartwarming story that made me smile. I enjoyed how all the neighbors helped one another and eventually found love. The dogs helped bring everyone together. Moonwater Lake sounds like a town where I would love to live. Thank you @andreahurst_author
and @katerockbooktours for an ebook of this perfect beachread. This is my honest review
She befriends Theo an elderly neighbor and his dog Wally. Theo suggest she start a dog walking business. With the help of her grandmother Alice her dog walking business expands. Sparks start to fly between Alice and Theo.
Theo offers his yard for a dog play area. With all the help with her new friends, they start the Lonely Hearts Dog Club. But at they end of the book, there are no lonely hearts. With the help of their dogs, love abounds in Moonwater Lake.
The Summer of Second chances is a wonderful heartwarming story that made me smile. I enjoyed how all the neighbors helped one another and eventually found love. The dogs helped bring everyone together. Moonwater Lake sounds like a town where I would love to live. Thank you @andreahurst_author
and @katerockbooktours for an ebook of this perfect beachread. This is my honest review
July 13, 2020
Grief is just love with no where to go!
I want to thank for including me in this wonderful book tour!
If your looking for a heartwarming book with all the feels and lots of dogs then this one is for you.
I absolutely adored this story.
I fell in love with all the characters and wanted only the best for them all!
And the ending was perfect!
SYNOPSIS
Shelby, at sweet sixteen, finds herself without friends, a place to call home, and still waiting for her first kiss. At the mercy of yet another move, she’s left to spend the summer with her grandmother at Moonwater Lake. Theo, a widowed, elderly man in town suggests she start a dog-walking business. Sometimes all it takes is one bright idea and an abundance of dogs to bond two unlikely friends and show them that dreams can still come true.
Theo is grieving the precious memories of his fifty-year marriage. If not for his aging beagle, Wally, he wouldn’t have a reason to get out of bed in the morning, much less go for walks. Theo is pleasantly surprised by his awakened feelings of hope, after crossing paths with Shelby and her grandmother.
It’s turning out to be a summer of many things; a summer of healing and starting over. A summer of friendship and unconditional love that will remind Shelby, Theo, and the town of Moonwater Lake that it’s never too late for second chances.
I want to thank for including me in this wonderful book tour!
If your looking for a heartwarming book with all the feels and lots of dogs then this one is for you.
I absolutely adored this story.
I fell in love with all the characters and wanted only the best for them all!
And the ending was perfect!
SYNOPSIS
Shelby, at sweet sixteen, finds herself without friends, a place to call home, and still waiting for her first kiss. At the mercy of yet another move, she’s left to spend the summer with her grandmother at Moonwater Lake. Theo, a widowed, elderly man in town suggests she start a dog-walking business. Sometimes all it takes is one bright idea and an abundance of dogs to bond two unlikely friends and show them that dreams can still come true.
Theo is grieving the precious memories of his fifty-year marriage. If not for his aging beagle, Wally, he wouldn’t have a reason to get out of bed in the morning, much less go for walks. Theo is pleasantly surprised by his awakened feelings of hope, after crossing paths with Shelby and her grandmother.
It’s turning out to be a summer of many things; a summer of healing and starting over. A summer of friendship and unconditional love that will remind Shelby, Theo, and the town of Moonwater Lake that it’s never too late for second chances.
June 16, 2020
This is a beautifully written, heartfelt book about second chances. A couple days before the end of her sophomore year of high school in Las Vegas, Shelby's mom announces she is going on a trip to Florida with her current boyfriend and Shelby is going to be dropped off at her Grandmother's house in Moonwater Lake, California. Shelby begs to stay a few more days so she can finish up the school year, but that isn't going to happen because then her mother will have pay another month of rent. Shelby considers running way, but with no place to go, she decided spending time with her grandmother won't be so bad. Shelby has changed schools many times and never lived anywhere long enough to make many friends. Her father died when she was very young and she and her mother have moved many times, often based on her mother's latest boyfriend.
Andrea Hurst writes stories that are refreshing , heartwarming, clean and wholesome. This one is no exception.
This is a delightful story of second chances and the value of friendship, and family. At the end of the book, there is a bonus of the recipes for all the delicious food that has been prepared throughout the story.
Andrea Hurst writes stories that are refreshing , heartwarming, clean and wholesome. This one is no exception.
This is a delightful story of second chances and the value of friendship, and family. At the end of the book, there is a bonus of the recipes for all the delicious food that has been prepared throughout the story.
November 5, 2020
It was a lovely book and a great summer read. I loved the story and plot of the book.
The book had some humour, some fun and sweet romance. It mainly shows the relationship between people and dogs. It makes us realise how loyal the pets are. They stay with us even when there is no one with us. It shows that good friends are always there for each other and you should not always see the negative side and stay depressed. There is always a positive side and in this book, the people at Moonwater Lake got to know about this after Shelby’s arrival. Even Shelby got to know about this after going to Moonwater Lake. It also shows that love can be given second chances and there is no age limit for love.
I loved all the characters in the book and of course the Moonwater Lake Legend. My favourite was probably Logan because he is such a sweetheart. I would go to swim everyday if there was a lifeguard like him in the pool. And don’t forget that there are some lovely cookie recipes in the end of the book which you could try out.
The book had some humour, some fun and sweet romance. It mainly shows the relationship between people and dogs. It makes us realise how loyal the pets are. They stay with us even when there is no one with us. It shows that good friends are always there for each other and you should not always see the negative side and stay depressed. There is always a positive side and in this book, the people at Moonwater Lake got to know about this after Shelby’s arrival. Even Shelby got to know about this after going to Moonwater Lake. It also shows that love can be given second chances and there is no age limit for love.
I loved all the characters in the book and of course the Moonwater Lake Legend. My favourite was probably Logan because he is such a sweetheart. I would go to swim everyday if there was a lifeguard like him in the pool. And don’t forget that there are some lovely cookie recipes in the end of the book which you could try out.
July 14, 2020
You guys, this cute book! Summer of Second Chances is based in Moonwater Lake, California and I was about ready to move and join this sweet community!
Shelby’s mom has dropped her off at her Grandmother’s house for the summer, so mom can spend time with her new boyfriend… again.
Shelby is feeling a little lost and lonely but finds some comfort in her Grandmother’s dog Scarlett. She is the catalyst for this community to come together and find friendship whether old or young and they are able to bond through their love of dogs.
I had no idea how endearing this was going to be, if you love a happy ending or if you love dogs, you’re gonna adore Summer of Second Chances!
Thank you @katerockbooktours {partner} for gifting us this copy and having us join your book tour! This book recently published on June 10th and is available for free on Kindle Unlimited
Shelby’s mom has dropped her off at her Grandmother’s house for the summer, so mom can spend time with her new boyfriend… again.
Shelby is feeling a little lost and lonely but finds some comfort in her Grandmother’s dog Scarlett. She is the catalyst for this community to come together and find friendship whether old or young and they are able to bond through their love of dogs.
I had no idea how endearing this was going to be, if you love a happy ending or if you love dogs, you’re gonna adore Summer of Second Chances!
Thank you @katerockbooktours {partner} for gifting us this copy and having us join your book tour! This book recently published on June 10th and is available for free on Kindle Unlimited
July 9, 2020
Delightful!
Summer of Second Chances has my heart bursting! Andrea Hurst makes you fall in love with love. I would give anything to be able jump into Moonwater Lake and live there with all these amazing people. This is a wonderful story about love, loss and healing. I felt so many emotions. This was a story I didn’t want to end. There are SO many extremely likable characters, you can’t help but read with a big old smile plastered all over your face. Summer of Second Chances is a heartwarming tale that deserves to be enjoyed.
This is my first Andrea Hurst book, and after this one... I am a fan for life.
Summer of Second Chances has my heart bursting! Andrea Hurst makes you fall in love with love. I would give anything to be able jump into Moonwater Lake and live there with all these amazing people. This is a wonderful story about love, loss and healing. I felt so many emotions. This was a story I didn’t want to end. There are SO many extremely likable characters, you can’t help but read with a big old smile plastered all over your face. Summer of Second Chances is a heartwarming tale that deserves to be enjoyed.
This is my first Andrea Hurst book, and after this one... I am a fan for life.
October 16, 2020
Thanks to @katerockbooktours and @andreahurst_author for my copy of the Second of Summer Chance and including my on the tour.
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SYNOPSIS:
Shelby, at sweet sixteen, finds herself without friends, a place to call home, and still waiting for her first kiss. At the mercy yet another move, she’s left to spend the summer with her grandmother at Moonwater Lake. Theo, a widowed, elderly man in town, suggests she start a dog walking business. Sometimes all it takes is one bright idea and an abundance of dogs to bond two unlikely friends and show them that dreams can still come true.
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Theo is grieving the precious memories of his fifty-year marriage. If not for his aging beagle, Wally, he wouldn’t have a reason to get out of bed in the morning, much less go for walks. Theo is pleasantly surprised by his awakened feelings of hope after crossing paths with Shelby and her grandmother.
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It’s turning out to be a summer of many things: a summer of healing and starting over. A summer of friendship and unconditional love that will remind Shelby, Theo, and the town of Moonwater Lake that it’s never too late for second chances.
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First off, I love the cover on this one and it’s really making me miss the summer and enjoying the outdoors. I thought this book was great and found myself wrapped up the story quickly. It also brought back memories when I was younger and would visit my grandparents in another city and spend time with them. I also didn’t have any friends and my brothers weren’t with me so I had to find ways to entertain myself.
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I thought the Theo character was my favourite character and the overall writing was really terrific. I would definitely recommend this one to everyone.
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SYNOPSIS:
Shelby, at sweet sixteen, finds herself without friends, a place to call home, and still waiting for her first kiss. At the mercy yet another move, she’s left to spend the summer with her grandmother at Moonwater Lake. Theo, a widowed, elderly man in town, suggests she start a dog walking business. Sometimes all it takes is one bright idea and an abundance of dogs to bond two unlikely friends and show them that dreams can still come true.
.
Theo is grieving the precious memories of his fifty-year marriage. If not for his aging beagle, Wally, he wouldn’t have a reason to get out of bed in the morning, much less go for walks. Theo is pleasantly surprised by his awakened feelings of hope after crossing paths with Shelby and her grandmother.
.
It’s turning out to be a summer of many things: a summer of healing and starting over. A summer of friendship and unconditional love that will remind Shelby, Theo, and the town of Moonwater Lake that it’s never too late for second chances.
.
First off, I love the cover on this one and it’s really making me miss the summer and enjoying the outdoors. I thought this book was great and found myself wrapped up the story quickly. It also brought back memories when I was younger and would visit my grandparents in another city and spend time with them. I also didn’t have any friends and my brothers weren’t with me so I had to find ways to entertain myself.
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I thought the Theo character was my favourite character and the overall writing was really terrific. I would definitely recommend this one to everyone.
September 20, 2020
I won this from Goodreads give away.
What a wonderful heart touching story this was.
The author made the charters so life like. They could be your
next door neighbor. Just loved each one. She did a wonderful job
telling the story of a young 16 yr girl who feels she does not belong or
loved. She just wants to stay in one place and be except and finish school
The story centers on a 16 yr teen who's life changes after spending the summer
with her grandmother while her mother is off with her new boyfriend seeing the
world. The change starts when she starts her own business dog walking. This start
a turn of events both in her life, but also in the lives around her in this small community.
The story will touch your heart and at times bring tears to your eyes.
I well recommend this book. What a easy summer read this is.
What a wonderful heart touching story this was.
The author made the charters so life like. They could be your
next door neighbor. Just loved each one. She did a wonderful job
telling the story of a young 16 yr girl who feels she does not belong or
loved. She just wants to stay in one place and be except and finish school
The story centers on a 16 yr teen who's life changes after spending the summer
with her grandmother while her mother is off with her new boyfriend seeing the
world. The change starts when she starts her own business dog walking. This start
a turn of events both in her life, but also in the lives around her in this small community.
The story will touch your heart and at times bring tears to your eyes.
I well recommend this book. What a easy summer read this is.
March 9, 2023
Sweet story
Shelby doesn't have much faith that her mother, Dana will ever think of anyone but herself. Dana meets someone and quickly becomes disenchanted within an them, pulling Shelby to another town where Shelby lives in dread for the next move.
Her mother, yet again met someone new and says they are traveling across the country for the summer with him. Then Shelby finds out, that she's being dropped off at her grandmother's house. She's ectatic to see her grandmother again but feels rejected by her mother. While staying with her grandmother, Shelby starts to meet people and their dogs. She decides she really enjoys Moonwater Lake and she could be happy there. She can imagine finishing high school there.
This is a story about friends ( two legged and four legged ), second chances of several different kinds.
Shelby doesn't have much faith that her mother, Dana will ever think of anyone but herself. Dana meets someone and quickly becomes disenchanted within an them, pulling Shelby to another town where Shelby lives in dread for the next move.
Her mother, yet again met someone new and says they are traveling across the country for the summer with him. Then Shelby finds out, that she's being dropped off at her grandmother's house. She's ectatic to see her grandmother again but feels rejected by her mother. While staying with her grandmother, Shelby starts to meet people and their dogs. She decides she really enjoys Moonwater Lake and she could be happy there. She can imagine finishing high school there.
This is a story about friends ( two legged and four legged ), second chances of several different kinds.
December 22, 2022
Summer of Second Chances was inspiring to me as it highlights the difficulties of life through the eyes of a sixteen-year-old girl who has seen the negative sides. So far, her experience revolves around frequent moves as her mother relocates in favor of the latest boyfriend. Often, this strong-charactered young woman is the parent figure, while her spoiled mother is the child.
The cycle continues until Shelby is dropped off at her grandmother's for the summer, with no idea of how her life will change.
Very well-written, if a little over-perfect in outcome, with the balance of challenges and triumphs. I very much enjoyed this "summer read."
The cycle continues until Shelby is dropped off at her grandmother's for the summer, with no idea of how her life will change.
Very well-written, if a little over-perfect in outcome, with the balance of challenges and triumphs. I very much enjoyed this "summer read."
June 7, 2021
Family, friendships and community
Shelby has spent her entire sixteen years with her mother moving from place to place. Shelby’s father died in an accident when she was very young and her mother can’t overcome her grief or find anyone new. She’s attended many schools and has made no friends. The summer she’s sixteen, her mother decides to leave Shelby with her grandmother, just for the summer. Shelby makes friends, finds a boyfriend and learns what a sense of community is. This is such a feel-good book. I high recommend.
Shelby has spent her entire sixteen years with her mother moving from place to place. Shelby’s father died in an accident when she was very young and her mother can’t overcome her grief or find anyone new. She’s attended many schools and has made no friends. The summer she’s sixteen, her mother decides to leave Shelby with her grandmother, just for the summer. Shelby makes friends, finds a boyfriend and learns what a sense of community is. This is such a feel-good book. I high recommend.
March 21, 2022
Delightful Read
I loved this story. It was simplistic and easy to read. The storyline kept my interest although it was almost fairytale style. The characters and their dogs were the main focus and we got to know them well. This is a clean sweet story with no sex, only a couple cuss words and no blood and gore. My kind of book. It borders on almost immature except for the mature way the main characters worked problems out. A great mix of all ages and types of personalities including the dogs. All in all I enjoyed it very much although some readers would think it childish.
I loved this story. It was simplistic and easy to read. The storyline kept my interest although it was almost fairytale style. The characters and their dogs were the main focus and we got to know them well. This is a clean sweet story with no sex, only a couple cuss words and no blood and gore. My kind of book. It borders on almost immature except for the mature way the main characters worked problems out. A great mix of all ages and types of personalities including the dogs. All in all I enjoyed it very much although some readers would think it childish.
April 2, 2022
I found this book to be an easy read that was somewhat predictable but just what I needed during these hard times we are all currently going through. To me, it read like a "Hallmark Channel" movie and at times I felt it was a little too "schmaltzy" but, surprisingly, I did like it and found myself routing for the main character, Shelby, and her grandmother and hoping things would turn out well for both of them. If anyone is looking for a feel-good, quick read that doesn't require a lot of thinking, I recommend this book.
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