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I Loved You First: Anthology
Escape with three warm-hearted romantic comedy novellas about women's second chances at first love from beloved romance authors Suzanne Enoch, Molly Harper, and Karen Hawkins.
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch
Eleanor Ross has it all: Fame, fortune - and Brian MacCafferty, the perfect combo of bodyguard and assistant who makes every day a breeze. MacCafferty anticipates her needs, puts out her fires, and - once upon a time - nearly put a ring on her finger.
And when a scandal erupts that could ruin El, it's Brian who rushes to the rescue and joins her in hiding. Will El discover there's no hiding from true love? And is she finally ready to take a second chance for her own, real life happily-ever-after?
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper
Anastasia Villiers has hit rock bottom. And that rock is named Espoir Island.
Abandoned by her disgraced investment banker husband who liquidated all of their assets and fled the country, Anastasia is left with nothing - except for Fishscale House, a broken-down Queen Anne in the Michigan hometown she swore she'd left for good.
If Ana quickly renovates and flips the dilapidated building, she can get back to Manhattan and salvage her life. The problem? The only person on the island with historical renovation cred is Ned Fitzroy - Ana's first love - who insists she help him with the labor herself. As Ana gets reacquainted with Ned, and her hometown, she realizes home may be just what she's always wanted.
Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins
Every big romance deserves a second chance. But Evan and Jessica Cho Graham are looking at the last chance: More specifically, The Last Chance Motel in Dove Pond, NC where Jessica has escaped to start a happily independent life, separate from her smart, sexy, but driven husband.
Evan has been wildly successful in every endeavor, except keeping the heart of the one woman he loves more than anything. If he's going to repair this mess, he's going to need all the help he can get - even if it's from the crankiest handyman in B&B history - to turn his second chance with Jess into a perfect storybook happy ending.
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch
Eleanor Ross has it all: Fame, fortune - and Brian MacCafferty, the perfect combo of bodyguard and assistant who makes every day a breeze. MacCafferty anticipates her needs, puts out her fires, and - once upon a time - nearly put a ring on her finger.
And when a scandal erupts that could ruin El, it's Brian who rushes to the rescue and joins her in hiding. Will El discover there's no hiding from true love? And is she finally ready to take a second chance for her own, real life happily-ever-after?
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper
Anastasia Villiers has hit rock bottom. And that rock is named Espoir Island.
Abandoned by her disgraced investment banker husband who liquidated all of their assets and fled the country, Anastasia is left with nothing - except for Fishscale House, a broken-down Queen Anne in the Michigan hometown she swore she'd left for good.
If Ana quickly renovates and flips the dilapidated building, she can get back to Manhattan and salvage her life. The problem? The only person on the island with historical renovation cred is Ned Fitzroy - Ana's first love - who insists she help him with the labor herself. As Ana gets reacquainted with Ned, and her hometown, she realizes home may be just what she's always wanted.
Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins
Every big romance deserves a second chance. But Evan and Jessica Cho Graham are looking at the last chance: More specifically, The Last Chance Motel in Dove Pond, NC where Jessica has escaped to start a happily independent life, separate from her smart, sexy, but driven husband.
Evan has been wildly successful in every endeavor, except keeping the heart of the one woman he loves more than anything. If he's going to repair this mess, he's going to need all the help he can get - even if it's from the crankiest handyman in B&B history - to turn his second chance with Jess into a perfect storybook happy ending.
Audio CD
First published August 25, 2020
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About the author
Suzanne Enoch
103 books2,633 followersSuzanne was born in Southern California sometime in the latter half of the 20th century. In the way that some people are born knowing they want to be astronauts or cellists, Suzanne always knew she wanted to be a writer. Early dreams of becoming a zoologist and writing true stories about her adventures in Africa were crushed, however, after she viewed a television special about the world’s most poisonous snakes; she did NOT want to write about how she’d been bitten and lost a limb to a cobra. Thankfully at the same time the movie “Star Wars” premiered, and she realized that she could make up adventures and write about them, and not be eaten by deadly predators while doing research.
She dabbled in romantic fantasy writing for a year or two after graduating with a degree in English from the University of California, Irvine, until her affection for traditional Regency romances led her to write one for fun. After several encouraging rejections from publishers, she snared the interest of the world’s best and most patient literary agent, who advised her to revise the manuscript. This ultimately led to the publication of her first book, The Black Duke’s Prize, from Avon Books in the Spring of 1995. A second Regency, Angel’s Devil, followed that Fall.
When Avon folded its traditional Regency line, Suzanne was encouraged to try her hand at historical romance. As she remained keenly interested in England’s Regency period, she decided to attempt another manuscript set in that time. Lady Rogue hit the shelves in March of 1997. She wrote a total of 29 books for Avon, including two anthologies and a five-part contemporary series which received a pair of starred reviews from Publishers Weekly. One of those books, Twice the Temptation, was named one of the five best romances of the year by PW in 2007.
In 2002 her well-known love of all things “Star Wars” led to an invitation to appear on the E! channel in the television special “Star Wars: The Force Is Back”, where she discussed the romance in the movie series and ended up with more air time than George Lucas.
In 2010 Suzanne left Avon Books for St. Martin’s Press, where she continues to pen historical romance novels. Her 31st book, Taming an Impossible Rogue, is set to arrive in March 2012.
Suzanne is known for her humorous characters, sexy bad boys, and whip-sharp, witty dialogue. She currently resides in Placentia, California with several hundred guppies and various other tropical fish, and handful of very loud, spinach-loving finches. And her collection of action figures and statues from “Star Wars”, “Lord of the Rings”, “X-Men”, and “Pirates of the Caribbean”. Everybody needs some inspiration, after all.
www.facebook.com/SuzanneEnoch
She dabbled in romantic fantasy writing for a year or two after graduating with a degree in English from the University of California, Irvine, until her affection for traditional Regency romances led her to write one for fun. After several encouraging rejections from publishers, she snared the interest of the world’s best and most patient literary agent, who advised her to revise the manuscript. This ultimately led to the publication of her first book, The Black Duke’s Prize, from Avon Books in the Spring of 1995. A second Regency, Angel’s Devil, followed that Fall.
When Avon folded its traditional Regency line, Suzanne was encouraged to try her hand at historical romance. As she remained keenly interested in England’s Regency period, she decided to attempt another manuscript set in that time. Lady Rogue hit the shelves in March of 1997. She wrote a total of 29 books for Avon, including two anthologies and a five-part contemporary series which received a pair of starred reviews from Publishers Weekly. One of those books, Twice the Temptation, was named one of the five best romances of the year by PW in 2007.
In 2002 her well-known love of all things “Star Wars” led to an invitation to appear on the E! channel in the television special “Star Wars: The Force Is Back”, where she discussed the romance in the movie series and ended up with more air time than George Lucas.
In 2010 Suzanne left Avon Books for St. Martin’s Press, where she continues to pen historical romance novels. Her 31st book, Taming an Impossible Rogue, is set to arrive in March 2012.
Suzanne is known for her humorous characters, sexy bad boys, and whip-sharp, witty dialogue. She currently resides in Placentia, California with several hundred guppies and various other tropical fish, and handful of very loud, spinach-loving finches. And her collection of action figures and statues from “Star Wars”, “Lord of the Rings”, “X-Men”, and “Pirates of the Caribbean”. Everybody needs some inspiration, after all.
www.facebook.com/SuzanneEnoch
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
September 7, 2020
Book Review 📖 📚
This was a collection of novellas read by my favorite reader, Amanda Ronconi on audible. I was really excited for this one because... Molly Harper, so it is not a surprise that the Molly Harper story: Pasties and Poor Decisions, was my favorite of the three novellas in this collection. It was the second story in the collection and was about Anastasia Villiers, who is abandoned by her rich investment banker husband and forced to go back to her small home town of Espoir Island, Michigan, where she ends up reconnecting with her high school sweetheart. Molly Harper is one of my favorite authors and she never disappoints with her snarky and full characters. Plus, Amanda Ronconi always does so well adding a voice to her already wonderful characters.
The first story in the collection was called “Take Two” by Suzanne Enoch. It was about Eleanor Ross, an actress who ends up connecting with its her body guard, Brian MacCafferty, who she was involved with before and broke it off with because of her own commitment issues. Although enjoyable, I did find this one felt a little rushed. The HEA seemed to happen to suddenly and quickly to seem legitimate. I get that short stories and novellas cut out a lot of the conflict that would exist in a full novel, but it just didn’t seem very expertly done. It wasn’t believable to me.
The third and final novella in the book was called “Last Chance Motel” by Karen Hawkins. It was about Jessica Cho who reconnects with her husband who she is separated from after she moves from Atlanta to North Carolina to start work on her new motel. I liked this one. I didn’t like it enough to throw myself into reading the author’s other work right now, but it was cute and enjoyable.
This was a collection of novellas read by my favorite reader, Amanda Ronconi on audible. I was really excited for this one because... Molly Harper, so it is not a surprise that the Molly Harper story: Pasties and Poor Decisions, was my favorite of the three novellas in this collection. It was the second story in the collection and was about Anastasia Villiers, who is abandoned by her rich investment banker husband and forced to go back to her small home town of Espoir Island, Michigan, where she ends up reconnecting with her high school sweetheart. Molly Harper is one of my favorite authors and she never disappoints with her snarky and full characters. Plus, Amanda Ronconi always does so well adding a voice to her already wonderful characters.
The first story in the collection was called “Take Two” by Suzanne Enoch. It was about Eleanor Ross, an actress who ends up connecting with its her body guard, Brian MacCafferty, who she was involved with before and broke it off with because of her own commitment issues. Although enjoyable, I did find this one felt a little rushed. The HEA seemed to happen to suddenly and quickly to seem legitimate. I get that short stories and novellas cut out a lot of the conflict that would exist in a full novel, but it just didn’t seem very expertly done. It wasn’t believable to me.
The third and final novella in the book was called “Last Chance Motel” by Karen Hawkins. It was about Jessica Cho who reconnects with her husband who she is separated from after she moves from Atlanta to North Carolina to start work on her new motel. I liked this one. I didn’t like it enough to throw myself into reading the author’s other work right now, but it was cute and enjoyable.
August 30, 2020
This review is based only on Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper.
This one was fairly predictable, but I still liked Ana go from someone you pitied to someone who you would like to have a drink with. It took her a bit to find her true self and realize was really important, but by the end of this one Ana has found her place again right where she started.
This one was fairly predictable, but I still liked Ana go from someone you pitied to someone who you would like to have a drink with. It took her a bit to find her true self and realize was really important, but by the end of this one Ana has found her place again right where she started.
August 26, 2020
Second chance stories. As it goes with anthologies, I liked some better than others.
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch - 5 stars
Smart, funny, and endearing, this set a terrific tone for the book.
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper - 4 stars
A Michigan locale (yay!). I enjoyed it but had a tough time liking the heroine.
The Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins - 2.5 stars
A little too sickly sweet and predictable. And I saw the little twist in the epilogue coming from a mile away. In fact, I hoped it wouldn't be the case, but somehow I knew it would...
Of course Amanda Ronconi was terrific as always.
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch - 5 stars
Smart, funny, and endearing, this set a terrific tone for the book.
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper - 4 stars
A Michigan locale (yay!). I enjoyed it but had a tough time liking the heroine.
The Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins - 2.5 stars
A little too sickly sweet and predictable. And I saw the little twist in the epilogue coming from a mile away. In fact, I hoped it wouldn't be the case, but somehow I knew it would...
Of course Amanda Ronconi was terrific as always.
March 6, 2021
I’ve only ever read Enoch’s and Hawkins’s historical romance novels so I admit to being intrigued what their contemporary ones would be like. And it was fun!
I’m vacillating on Enoch’s TAKE TWO. Proof that I just had tiny patience for Eleanor’s wishy-washiness. But oh Lord, St. Brian was just so saintly calm and considerate! To think Eleanor just abusing her power over him - intentionally or not - was just wrong. I was a PA once and even I won’t take that sort of ill-treatment silently, if at all. So I’m quite hard-pressed to dislike Eleanor for the long period - four years!! - of torture.
Harper’s PASTIES AND POOR DECISIONS is a slow burn second chance that - while initially got me gritted my teeth - was actually funny and rollicking. And I especially loved Ana’s friendships with people she thought better left behind; Espoir townsfolk had quite a charm and that strong close-nit community vibe. My issue here came in the form of Ana’s daughters! Doesn’t matter that she forgave them given the difficult situation the divorce put them in. They ghosted her for MONTHS!! without once trying to reach out to her. No, I wouldn’t let them off that easily!!
I’m vacillating on Enoch’s TAKE TWO. Proof that I just had tiny patience for Eleanor’s wishy-washiness. But oh Lord, St. Brian was just so saintly calm and considerate! To think Eleanor just abusing her power over him - intentionally or not - was just wrong. I was a PA once and even I won’t take that sort of ill-treatment silently, if at all. So I’m quite hard-pressed to dislike Eleanor for the long period - four years!! - of torture.
Harper’s PASTIES AND POOR DECISIONS is a slow burn second chance that - while initially got me gritted my teeth - was actually funny and rollicking. And I especially loved Ana’s friendships with people she thought better left behind; Espoir townsfolk had quite a charm and that strong close-nit community vibe. My issue here came in the form of Ana’s daughters! Doesn’t matter that she forgave them given the difficult situation the divorce put them in. They ghosted her for MONTHS!! without once trying to reach out to her. No, I wouldn’t let them off that easily!!
”So sell yourself. And do it like it’s the day before Mother’s Day and you’re one of a thousand boxes of chocolate sitting on the self.”I love Hawkins’s THE LAST CHANCE MOTEL. It hurt so bad following Jess and Evan’s heartache over separating; grappling with what they’re (about to) loose yet afraid to hope. It’s a nice (and fun) touch with Jess’s deceased relative involved. I guffawed reading each encounters and just didn’t get why poor Evan hadn’t suspect ethereal intervention at play! Hawkins’s definitely my favorite of the lot.
September 24, 2020
Wonderful Whimsical Romance
These are three terrific little romances, with great dialogue, interesting characters and just enough angst to make them worth finishing. Molly Harper is new to me, but Suzanne Enoch and Karen Hawkins are already favorites. Ms. Harper has joined the ranks! I've been greatly entertained.
These are three terrific little romances, with great dialogue, interesting characters and just enough angst to make them worth finishing. Molly Harper is new to me, but Suzanne Enoch and Karen Hawkins are already favorites. Ms. Harper has joined the ranks! I've been greatly entertained.
August 19, 2022
Liked the middle story the best, Molly Harper’s Pasties and Poor Decisions. Loved Amanda Ronconi’s narration, especially her various accents.
September 26, 2020
Posted on What I'm Reading
Amanda Ronconi is one of my favorite narrators, and she knows how to make the characters come alive. You can never go wrong with her if it's a small town story that has quirky characters. Now that is out of the way, time to dive into the stories.
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch
We have Eleanor Ross and Brian MacCafferty in this story. They use to have a relationship, and now they have a working one. Okay, not really. This story was adorable, and a quick listen. They had a lot to work on to repair all aspects of their lives. It's nice little pick me up story.
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper
We have Anastasia Villers and Ned Fitzroy. In this story Anastasia hits rock bottom, and needs to come crawling home. She never thought that her coming would be a welcoming one, but it wasn't what she expected. Ned and Anastasia use to have a relationship until she ghosted him. Need some patching up with these. Honestly, this story could have been a full on novel, because there's potential to make it longer. However, it was a cute listen.
Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins
This was a super cute story. We have Evan and Jessica Graham. They have an extremely rocky relationship. It was so bad that Jessica left Evan and sent him divorce papers. Evan tries to win back Jessica, but has an uphill battle. Overall, it was a cute story.
Overall, these stories were cute. They all could have been made the stories a full fledge novels, but it was good to have something quick to listen. Also, they were heart-warming, and gave fuzzy feelings at the end.
Copy provided by author via Audiobook
Rating:
4 Stars
Amanda Ronconi is one of my favorite narrators, and she knows how to make the characters come alive. You can never go wrong with her if it's a small town story that has quirky characters. Now that is out of the way, time to dive into the stories.
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch
We have Eleanor Ross and Brian MacCafferty in this story. They use to have a relationship, and now they have a working one. Okay, not really. This story was adorable, and a quick listen. They had a lot to work on to repair all aspects of their lives. It's nice little pick me up story.
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper
We have Anastasia Villers and Ned Fitzroy. In this story Anastasia hits rock bottom, and needs to come crawling home. She never thought that her coming would be a welcoming one, but it wasn't what she expected. Ned and Anastasia use to have a relationship until she ghosted him. Need some patching up with these. Honestly, this story could have been a full on novel, because there's potential to make it longer. However, it was a cute listen.
Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins
This was a super cute story. We have Evan and Jessica Graham. They have an extremely rocky relationship. It was so bad that Jessica left Evan and sent him divorce papers. Evan tries to win back Jessica, but has an uphill battle. Overall, it was a cute story.
Overall, these stories were cute. They all could have been made the stories a full fledge novels, but it was good to have something quick to listen. Also, they were heart-warming, and gave fuzzy feelings at the end.
Copy provided by author via Audiobook
Rating:
4 Stars
October 8, 2020
Review will be posted at www.books-n-kisses.com .
REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kelly
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4
All three of these stories were great! Each was a second chance/redemption romance. So if you like those kinds of stories then you need to pick up a copy of I Loved You First!!
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch: This was a super sweet story. Eleanor Ross and Brian MacCafferty are both fun characters that you can’t help but fall in love with. I do truly enjoy the lengths that Brian has to go through to get what he ultimately wants :)
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper: Once again Molly writes a story that makes me want more. I loved Ana & Neds story. I do truly hope that we will get a future peek at these two.
The Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins: Awe Jessica and Evan. It was fun to see how much Evan was willing to do to get back the love of his life. I really liked the twist in this story.
As always Amanda Ronconi does a phenomenal job narrating these stories!!
Disclaimer:
I purchased this book from Audible.com and this review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kelly
NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4
All three of these stories were great! Each was a second chance/redemption romance. So if you like those kinds of stories then you need to pick up a copy of I Loved You First!!
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch: This was a super sweet story. Eleanor Ross and Brian MacCafferty are both fun characters that you can’t help but fall in love with. I do truly enjoy the lengths that Brian has to go through to get what he ultimately wants :)
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper: Once again Molly writes a story that makes me want more. I loved Ana & Neds story. I do truly hope that we will get a future peek at these two.
The Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins: Awe Jessica and Evan. It was fun to see how much Evan was willing to do to get back the love of his life. I really liked the twist in this story.
As always Amanda Ronconi does a phenomenal job narrating these stories!!
Disclaimer:
I purchased this book from Audible.com and this review is my own opinion and not a paid review.
October 25, 2021
Firstly, Amanda Ronconi I find to be a wonderful upbeat narrator, whom I have only listened to narrating Molly Harpers books, so it was nice to hear her read different material. She injects the same energy into all her readings and this led to continuity in these three short stories. They are all based on finding your authentic self as most of the characters seemed to have got very lost in their minds/fears and their hearts are now speaking up. (5 stars for narrtation)
1) First book was fine but I did not get very involved. Kept reminding me a bit of Julia Roberts in Notting Hill. (2 stars)
2) I enjoyed Molly Harpers story a lot. A new setting and great cast. Not one sasquatch reference! Lots of Harper humour and an enjoyable tale. It's a little hard to bond with Anna at the beginning, however, you have to remember what she has just been through and this is her at her worst so the stories arc is great at seeing her grow. (4 stars)
3) This is sweet tale, there is a little twist you may see coming but it adds to the story. I enjoyed the main and the side characters. (3 stars)
If you want easy uplifting stories this is enjoyable, not too emotive and left me smiling.
1) First book was fine but I did not get very involved. Kept reminding me a bit of Julia Roberts in Notting Hill. (2 stars)
2) I enjoyed Molly Harpers story a lot. A new setting and great cast. Not one sasquatch reference! Lots of Harper humour and an enjoyable tale. It's a little hard to bond with Anna at the beginning, however, you have to remember what she has just been through and this is her at her worst so the stories arc is great at seeing her grow. (4 stars)
3) This is sweet tale, there is a little twist you may see coming but it adds to the story. I enjoyed the main and the side characters. (3 stars)
If you want easy uplifting stories this is enjoyable, not too emotive and left me smiling.
August 23, 2021
Meh. I wanted something fairly predictable that didn't require a lot of thought to read. In that way, this did the trick.
The problem is that out of the six main characters in this anthology, I only liked one of them (Ned from the second story). The other five people annoyed me for various reasons, primarily because they're rich and privileged and kind of - well - annoying. I generally do not like stories about rich people, so it's not surprising that this aspect of the story frustrated me. There was a decent amount of sexism too, especially in the last story, and I kind of couldn't wait for that story to be over.
The second story - Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper - was by far my favorite. I'd potentially borrow another book of hers from the library for a beach read.
Ronconi is a very good narrator. She did regional U.S. accents quite well (although her Upper Midwest could use some work ;)).
Ultimately, this anthology was fine for a morning commute but it's ultimately unforgettable and I'm glad I only spent a few dollars on it during an Audible sale.
The problem is that out of the six main characters in this anthology, I only liked one of them (Ned from the second story). The other five people annoyed me for various reasons, primarily because they're rich and privileged and kind of - well - annoying. I generally do not like stories about rich people, so it's not surprising that this aspect of the story frustrated me. There was a decent amount of sexism too, especially in the last story, and I kind of couldn't wait for that story to be over.
The second story - Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper - was by far my favorite. I'd potentially borrow another book of hers from the library for a beach read.
Ronconi is a very good narrator. She did regional U.S. accents quite well (although her Upper Midwest could use some work ;)).
Ultimately, this anthology was fine for a morning commute but it's ultimately unforgettable and I'm glad I only spent a few dollars on it during an Audible sale.
September 2, 2020
3 Great Stories
I really enjoyed this anthology. Each of the stories were very well done. Amanda Ronconi's narration was excellent, as always.
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch:
Suzanne Enoch is a new author to me. I enjoyed her story. The setting was beautiful. The characters were interesting, but a little frustrating. It was a well rounded tale.
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper
Molly Harper is a favorite of mine. I loved this story. The place was interesting and welcoming. The characters were multi-faceted, believable, funny and lovable. And of course, a little snarky. There were surprises. I would definitely recommend this story.
The Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins
Karen Hawkins is also a new author to me. I really enjoyed this story. It was interesting and really held my attention. I felt for the main characters and rooted for them. The supporting characters were also excellent. And I love a good twist.
I really enjoyed this anthology. Each of the stories were very well done. Amanda Ronconi's narration was excellent, as always.
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch:
Suzanne Enoch is a new author to me. I enjoyed her story. The setting was beautiful. The characters were interesting, but a little frustrating. It was a well rounded tale.
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper
Molly Harper is a favorite of mine. I loved this story. The place was interesting and welcoming. The characters were multi-faceted, believable, funny and lovable. And of course, a little snarky. There were surprises. I would definitely recommend this story.
The Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins
Karen Hawkins is also a new author to me. I really enjoyed this story. It was interesting and really held my attention. I felt for the main characters and rooted for them. The supporting characters were also excellent. And I love a good twist.
December 16, 2020
Three stories of first love and second chances. I really enjoy all three stories. In Take Two, Eleanor and Brian had called it quits, but he is still working for her. He makes her life so much easier and when a scandal breaks, he saves her career. Can he convince her that she belongs with him?
In Pasties and Poor Decisions, Ana ran away from her life on Espoir Island and left Ned with a broken heart. Now she is coming home after a failed marriage and her reception isn't very warm. Is she just there to sell the home her ex bought her or will she stay. Ned needs to know.
In Last Chance Motel, Jess still loves Evan, but she won't be second in his life. He is so caught up in business, that he neglected everything else, including Jess. Evan wants her back and is willing to do anything to get her to change her mind. He gets a little help from an old guy who has been through the same thing. Can Evan step up and change things?
In Pasties and Poor Decisions, Ana ran away from her life on Espoir Island and left Ned with a broken heart. Now she is coming home after a failed marriage and her reception isn't very warm. Is she just there to sell the home her ex bought her or will she stay. Ned needs to know.
In Last Chance Motel, Jess still loves Evan, but she won't be second in his life. He is so caught up in business, that he neglected everything else, including Jess. Evan wants her back and is willing to do anything to get her to change her mind. He gets a little help from an old guy who has been through the same thing. Can Evan step up and change things?
February 23, 2023
These short stories weren't awful, but they were disappointing and missed the mark for me: I kept thinking that all of the relationships here would have been better off left at the point where the stories started - with the characters having moved on to other people and pursuits.
I believed much more in the problems the couples were facing in the beginning than in the resolutions the authors awkwardly foisted on them.
One of the problems is that all the original breakups were initiated by the female leads, who were making those decisions soundly, based on time-proven evidence, and deep knowledge of themselves and what they needed and wanted from life. Forcing them to make concessions based mostly on the grounds of lingering attraction or experiencing traumatic events in the present seemed too much like admitting defeat instead of moving forward, growing and flourishing. I found that depressing, despite the formal "happy endings".
I believed much more in the problems the couples were facing in the beginning than in the resolutions the authors awkwardly foisted on them.
One of the problems is that all the original breakups were initiated by the female leads, who were making those decisions soundly, based on time-proven evidence, and deep knowledge of themselves and what they needed and wanted from life. Forcing them to make concessions based mostly on the grounds of lingering attraction or experiencing traumatic events in the present seemed too much like admitting defeat instead of moving forward, growing and flourishing. I found that depressing, despite the formal "happy endings".
February 26, 2023
Take Two by Suzanne Enoch - I know these are short stories but this one was proceeding nicely and then BOOM... the end. It felt so rushed as she wrapped it up like in a page. I would have liked a bit more conversation between the two, instead of abrupt ending.
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper - Again the story was interesting and liked the history of the main characters. However the ending surprised me as again it was sudden.
The Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins - Never read this author before but I really liked this story. It was my favorite of the group. I liked the characters, Evan the hero was so charming when he got his head on straight. When he realized he was loosing his wife Jess and decided to win her back. The paranormal/ghosts were a sweet touch too.
Pasties and Poor Decisions by Molly Harper - Again the story was interesting and liked the history of the main characters. However the ending surprised me as again it was sudden.
The Last Chance Motel by Karen Hawkins - Never read this author before but I really liked this story. It was my favorite of the group. I liked the characters, Evan the hero was so charming when he got his head on straight. When he realized he was loosing his wife Jess and decided to win her back. The paranormal/ghosts were a sweet touch too.
September 10, 2020
Elegí este libro por Molly Harper. Y solo por eso lo terminé.
La primera historia me habría hecho abandonarlo solo por la temática. Es una manía mía, totalmente parcial, pero no soporto (normalmente) los libros sobre actores, famosos o músicos. Los millonarios a veces también caen aquí. Hice de tripas corazón y, al final, tampoco estuvo tan mal. Creo que ayuda que la actriz fuera ella. Y, sobretodo, que ella NO fuese la típica que se queda colgada del ex y NO es célibe después de la ruptura.
La historia de Molly Harper me ha gustado. No es el subgénero, de los que escribe, que más disfruto con ella pero en este caso no me ha importado. Me habría gustado mucho más si hubiese sido una novela y no una historia corta. El humor de esta mujer, para mí, es perfecto.
La última historia es un poco diferente de las demás. El principio me gustó y me llamó bastante la atención. El final se me hizo un poco pesado.
No conocía a dos de las tres escritoras pero me las apunto para más adelante.
La primera historia me habría hecho abandonarlo solo por la temática. Es una manía mía, totalmente parcial, pero no soporto (normalmente) los libros sobre actores, famosos o músicos. Los millonarios a veces también caen aquí. Hice de tripas corazón y, al final, tampoco estuvo tan mal. Creo que ayuda que la actriz fuera ella. Y, sobretodo, que ella NO fuese la típica que se queda colgada del ex y NO es célibe después de la ruptura.
La historia de Molly Harper me ha gustado. No es el subgénero, de los que escribe, que más disfruto con ella pero en este caso no me ha importado. Me habría gustado mucho más si hubiese sido una novela y no una historia corta. El humor de esta mujer, para mí, es perfecto.
La última historia es un poco diferente de las demás. El principio me gustó y me llamó bastante la atención. El final se me hizo un poco pesado.
No conocía a dos de las tres escritoras pero me las apunto para más adelante.
November 28, 2020
these are all pretty simple second chance romances. The story are nice, uncomplicated feel goods. I did have a few point I disliked the snobbishness of Suzanne Enoch heroine
Take Two - Suzanne Enoch - Hollywood actress Elinor Ross and her ex-fiance, current assistant Brian Cafferty have to hid away from paperazzi
Pasties and Poor Decisions- Molly Harper - Ex NY socialite/Real Housewife adjacent Anastasia Villers nee Ana Gustavsson has to return to the economical poor Michigan Espoir Island where she grew up after husband flees fed police, taking hidden accounts & his trainer. The only thing Ana owns is a Victorian fixer upper.
Last Chance Motel - Karen Hawkins Dove pond short. Jessica leaves Evan with divorce papers, moves to Dove Pond to remodel/run motel.
Take Two - Suzanne Enoch - Hollywood actress Elinor Ross and her ex-fiance, current assistant Brian Cafferty have to hid away from paperazzi
Pasties and Poor Decisions- Molly Harper - Ex NY socialite/Real Housewife adjacent Anastasia Villers nee Ana Gustavsson has to return to the economical poor Michigan Espoir Island where she grew up after husband flees fed police, taking hidden accounts & his trainer. The only thing Ana owns is a Victorian fixer upper.
Last Chance Motel - Karen Hawkins Dove pond short. Jessica leaves Evan with divorce papers, moves to Dove Pond to remodel/run motel.
May 31, 2021
I liked the first book by Suzanne Enoch. It was cute! I found the characters a bit unrealistic though. But I thought it was enjoyable. The second book by Molly Harper started out somewhat depressing. It was hard to get through the beginning. But it had a happy ending so I liked that. The best story I thought was Karen Hawkins’. I Love the Dove Pond supernatural aspect! She always brings some real life to her characters! Doyle helping Evan get his woman back with his great advice was a wonderful element. It was heartwarming. I loved it!
Narration was terrific.
Narration was terrific.
May 23, 2022
So I really only picked this up because of the Karen Hawkins Dove Pond novella, which I enthusiastically give 4 stars. Cute town! A bit of magic!
Suzanne Enoch story is ★★ (built up fairly well, but ending was bizarrely fast and didn't make sense with the way it had been developed. Felt like it was written in the nineties)
Molly Harper story ★★★ (Ana was a fun character, and the whole coming home "disgraced" was a good set-up. Would have liked more details of the reno, and her all too perfect new lawyer was awfully hard to believe)
Suzanne Enoch story is ★★ (built up fairly well, but ending was bizarrely fast and didn't make sense with the way it had been developed. Felt like it was written in the nineties)
Molly Harper story ★★★ (Ana was a fun character, and the whole coming home "disgraced" was a good set-up. Would have liked more details of the reno, and her all too perfect new lawyer was awfully hard to believe)
August 27, 2020
I loved You First is a great anthology!!!! This was a perfect feel good book during these challenging times. The anthology has some amazing contributors but I will admit I have a favorite.
I bought it for Molly Harper's contribution. It was amazing. It is a not so sweet in the beginning, second chance romance between Ana and Ned. But the happily ever after was fantastic and so very satisfying.
I bought it for Molly Harper's contribution. It was amazing. It is a not so sweet in the beginning, second chance romance between Ana and Ned. But the happily ever after was fantastic and so very satisfying.
November 7, 2021
Nice cheerful read
3 short stories about rekindled love. Enjoyable and nice for a day off and a brain chill. My favorites were the Molly Harper and Karen Hawkins stories but I bought the book as I normally love Susanne Enoch but I felt her story lacked her normal humor. Anyway if you're looking for an easy quick read with enjoyable characters and no drama or explicit scenes then I would recommend this collection.
3 short stories about rekindled love. Enjoyable and nice for a day off and a brain chill. My favorites were the Molly Harper and Karen Hawkins stories but I bought the book as I normally love Susanne Enoch but I felt her story lacked her normal humor. Anyway if you're looking for an easy quick read with enjoyable characters and no drama or explicit scenes then I would recommend this collection.
February 16, 2023
One after the other, these 3 short stories (in audible version) provided one better than the last! The last had a predictable element but knowing this didn't ruin the ending whatsoever. 'Just a pleasant read of three 2nd chances essentially! I had a personally affinity for the 2nd one on an island of Lake Superior (a Upper Peninsula affinity). And who doesn't appreciate a lakeside story (the 3rd story of this anthology)?
May 12, 2021
Disappointing
These three authors are in my top 10 favorite authors. Plus I really love a good second chance story. So I was really disappointed with this collection. The stories were far-fetched and dull at the same time (how is that possible?)
Don't judge these authors by this book. Try their regular series with sassy heroines, hot heroes, and funny situations.
These three authors are in my top 10 favorite authors. Plus I really love a good second chance story. So I was really disappointed with this collection. The stories were far-fetched and dull at the same time (how is that possible?)
Don't judge these authors by this book. Try their regular series with sassy heroines, hot heroes, and funny situations.
August 21, 2022
Read for the Karen Hawkins story, The Last Chance Motel, that fits in with her Dove Pond series, but read and liked the other stories, too. The first two made me curious about celebrities/socialites and the realities of those lives. The second story, Pasties and Poor Decisions, I appreciated for the mention of small town archives and the idea for using them to revitalize town life and tourism.
September 29, 2020
Doyle - the Romantic
Ah, Karen... once again you knock it out if the park. Doyle is such a busy body romantic.
The other novellas in the book were also entertaining and satisfying.
Ah, Karen... once again you knock it out if the park. Doyle is such a busy body romantic.
The other novellas in the book were also entertaining and satisfying.
September 5, 2020
Cute collection of second chance romances that also involve B&Bs.
September 15, 2020
3.25/5 cute and fun collection! :-)
September 18, 2020
Lovely stories
From 2 of my favorites and one new author. The theme of I loved you first is played out in each story..
From 2 of my favorites and one new author. The theme of I loved you first is played out in each story..
October 11, 2020
Last Chance Motel.
This was a great read. I love Karen’s characters. It is warm funny and keeps you asking when the next book comes out. Thanks Karen.
This was a great read. I love Karen’s characters. It is warm funny and keeps you asking when the next book comes out. Thanks Karen.
December 6, 2020
Karen Hawkins's story was very good. I love Doyle!
July 25, 2021
Loved, loved, loved this book!
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