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Second First Kiss
A torching kiss on a long-ago high school dare just might flare up again.
Back in high school, Jasher Hotchkiss and Sage Everton shared one perfect kiss at a kissing booth.
Now, they've both returned to their hometown of Mendon. Bachelor Jasher is there against his will as the reluctant new general surgeon. Widowed Sage is the hospital’s underappreciated nurse anesthetist.
They see each other daily.
Neither has forgotten that mind-blowing kiss.
However, if Jasher is universally loathed by the town's citizens and Sage carries a potentially lethal dating curse, is there any chance at a second first kiss?
Laugh and swoon as these two medical professionals get coerced into dating each other in Kissing Dr. Hotchkiss. Read this fun, sassy romantic comedy set in a small town hospital with quirky characters and hilarious dialogue and situations.
Jennifer Griffith is the Swoony Award-winning author of hilarious romances that are like cotton candy for your soul.
Kissing Dr. Hotchkiss is set in the same world as Jennifer’s Forever Home Romances and her Christmas House Romances series. Grab them all for sweet escapes!
Back in high school, Jasher Hotchkiss and Sage Everton shared one perfect kiss at a kissing booth.
Now, they've both returned to their hometown of Mendon. Bachelor Jasher is there against his will as the reluctant new general surgeon. Widowed Sage is the hospital’s underappreciated nurse anesthetist.
They see each other daily.
Neither has forgotten that mind-blowing kiss.
However, if Jasher is universally loathed by the town's citizens and Sage carries a potentially lethal dating curse, is there any chance at a second first kiss?
Laugh and swoon as these two medical professionals get coerced into dating each other in Kissing Dr. Hotchkiss. Read this fun, sassy romantic comedy set in a small town hospital with quirky characters and hilarious dialogue and situations.
Jennifer Griffith is the Swoony Award-winning author of hilarious romances that are like cotton candy for your soul.
Kissing Dr. Hotchkiss is set in the same world as Jennifer’s Forever Home Romances and her Christmas House Romances series. Grab them all for sweet escapes!
191 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 17, 2021
130 people are currently reading
284 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Griffith
90 books350 followersDo you love free e-books? Check out my website to see how to get a free book. http://authorjennifergriffith.com
I love a story that ends with a kiss, whether it's a book or a movie. That's the big payoff! So that's the kind of books I like to write, and I call my style "cotton candy for the soul"-- light, sweet, gone. We all need a little escape from reality for a while, and escapist fiction can be the perfect remedy.
I'm a moderately bad housekeeper, I have a black thumb, and it takes a small miracle to get my hair to curl. My handsome husband and I live in the Arizona desert where we're raising our five children, who never let us stop laughing.
I love a story that ends with a kiss, whether it's a book or a movie. That's the big payoff! So that's the kind of books I like to write, and I call my style "cotton candy for the soul"-- light, sweet, gone. We all need a little escape from reality for a while, and escapist fiction can be the perfect remedy.
I'm a moderately bad housekeeper, I have a black thumb, and it takes a small miracle to get my hair to curl. My handsome husband and I live in the Arizona desert where we're raising our five children, who never let us stop laughing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
April 23, 2021
2.5/5
Despite that rating, this book was honestly not bad and I actually enjoyed reading it.
It’s short, fast-paced and very easy to follow. I was contemplating whether the “medical” theme would go well for me (& it actually does).
But then, there wasn’t anything special about the book.
I found some part of the line to be a bit cringe & there were a lot of mansplaining (although not done excessively), it just happened so readers would get the joke (・_・ヾ
And I feel like the book really just talked about the MCs first kiss a lot.
Sage: *saw Jasher* I remembered my first kiss with him
Sage after 172828 times seeing Jasher: Oh, to think that he’s a good kisser... again.
The same for Jasher, to the point it almost felt plotless because the story revolves around that premise. The idea of not forgetting your best first kiss with that someone, which I get it (maybe I don't) but are these people lives really just revolve around the mindblowing kiss?
Characters wise, I actually love both Sage & Jasher, despite the shortcoming. Just because you’re a doctor/nurse, doesn’t make you a nice person. Some people just happened to be nasty.
However, with these two, you can say the small town is in good hands.
A cute book nevertheless.
Despite that rating, this book was honestly not bad and I actually enjoyed reading it.
It’s short, fast-paced and very easy to follow. I was contemplating whether the “medical” theme would go well for me (& it actually does).
But then, there wasn’t anything special about the book.
I found some part of the line to be a bit cringe & there were a lot of mansplaining (although not done excessively), it just happened so readers would get the joke (・_・ヾ
And I feel like the book really just talked about the MCs first kiss a lot.
Sage: *saw Jasher* I remembered my first kiss with him
Sage after 172828 times seeing Jasher: Oh, to think that he’s a good kisser... again.
The same for Jasher, to the point it almost felt plotless because the story revolves around that premise. The idea of not forgetting your best first kiss with that someone, which I get it (maybe I don't) but are these people lives really just revolve around the mindblowing kiss?
Characters wise, I actually love both Sage & Jasher, despite the shortcoming. Just because you’re a doctor/nurse, doesn’t make you a nice person. Some people just happened to be nasty.
However, with these two, you can say the small town is in good hands.
A cute book nevertheless.
life-is-too-short
May 6, 2022This book's primary flaw is that it's boring and the characters are boring.
March 12, 2021
Hot Kisses from Dr. Hot Kiss...
I can always count on this author to deliver a sweet, funny, and utterly swoony story and it totally hit the spot! And one little hidden gem is that the setting has the same name as my hometown. Although it's different in many ways, I feel like I spent a little time back at home and it was so tender.
Jasher is back and the town has a grudge against him, but the silver lining is working with his former teenage crush, Sage. I adored these characters so much! The medical scene was intriguing and fun--it was almost like watching an edited version of a popular medical TV show unfold in my mind.
The chemistry was flammable and watching it slowly ignite as Jasher and Sage participated in the wonderful experiences that Mendon had to offer was the icing on this delightfully sweet story. All I can say is, Hot Kisses from Dr. Hot Kiss...
Content: mild romance; mild violence/medical descriptions
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
I can always count on this author to deliver a sweet, funny, and utterly swoony story and it totally hit the spot! And one little hidden gem is that the setting has the same name as my hometown. Although it's different in many ways, I feel like I spent a little time back at home and it was so tender.
Jasher is back and the town has a grudge against him, but the silver lining is working with his former teenage crush, Sage. I adored these characters so much! The medical scene was intriguing and fun--it was almost like watching an edited version of a popular medical TV show unfold in my mind.
The chemistry was flammable and watching it slowly ignite as Jasher and Sage participated in the wonderful experiences that Mendon had to offer was the icing on this delightfully sweet story. All I can say is, Hot Kisses from Dr. Hot Kiss...
Content: mild romance; mild violence/medical descriptions
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
March 30, 2021
Calling all of you Rom-Com fans. This book had me laughing and giggling and possibly snorting. I don't know if any of you receive this author's newsletter or not. If you do, you'll totally know what I mean when I say that she is funny. I know when her newsletters show up in my inbox, I'm in for some laughs. And the great thing is that they're real life and honest. So when I'm waiting patiently for her next novel to dive into, I get to read her newsletters and be tided over for my humor fix. If you're not receiving her newsletters and need some enjoyment in your days, do yourself a favor and go sign up. They're great!
This book tickled my funny bone so much!!! Sage and Jasher were just super fun. I loved seeing into their minds and thoughts throughout the book, especially about their first kiss interaction. They've not seen each other in years and when they see each other again, sparks fly and keep flying throughout the book.
Sage was such a sweet character. She was just so good. I loved her willingness to reach out and help others. She truly cares for people and her town. Jasher has seen that goodness in her for years and it was fun to see Sage's goodness through his eyes as well.
Jasher is the black sheep of the town. And he's back, not necessarily by choice, and trying to be the good guy he is but grudges in this small town are not going away overnight. I really liked how the author resolved Jasher's town troubles. Lots of fun.
Watch out for Inchy. She's a force to be reckoned with. But, her force pulls Sage and Jasher, unknowingly, into each other's sphere even further and is basically the catalyst for rekindling their friendship (or rather chemistry).
Grab a bag of popcorn, a tasty drink, maybe some chocolate and sit back with this book for an enjoyable time.
Content: Clean. Kissing but nothing further. A couple make out scenes but nothing graphic or more than kissing. Some mild moments of peril (they are both medical professionals and participate in emergency situations and surgeries).
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This book tickled my funny bone so much!!! Sage and Jasher were just super fun. I loved seeing into their minds and thoughts throughout the book, especially about their first kiss interaction. They've not seen each other in years and when they see each other again, sparks fly and keep flying throughout the book.
Sage was such a sweet character. She was just so good. I loved her willingness to reach out and help others. She truly cares for people and her town. Jasher has seen that goodness in her for years and it was fun to see Sage's goodness through his eyes as well.
Jasher is the black sheep of the town. And he's back, not necessarily by choice, and trying to be the good guy he is but grudges in this small town are not going away overnight. I really liked how the author resolved Jasher's town troubles. Lots of fun.
Watch out for Inchy. She's a force to be reckoned with. But, her force pulls Sage and Jasher, unknowingly, into each other's sphere even further and is basically the catalyst for rekindling their friendship (or rather chemistry).
Grab a bag of popcorn, a tasty drink, maybe some chocolate and sit back with this book for an enjoyable time.
Content: Clean. Kissing but nothing further. A couple make out scenes but nothing graphic or more than kissing. Some mild moments of peril (they are both medical professionals and participate in emergency situations and surgeries).
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
March 10, 2021
The Rom-Com chemistry of this book was off the charts! I loved the witty banter and the teasing. I don’t know what was funnier, the unsaid thoughts or the dialogue. So many great scenes and so many funny moments. Truly a lovely book! I loved Sage and Jasher!
I live by a street called Hotchkiss and I think it will be forever branded in my mind as “Hot Kiss” from now on in honor of this story. LOL
Rating: PG, clean but has medical drama like some details about surgeries and accidents.
I live by a street called Hotchkiss and I think it will be forever branded in my mind as “Hot Kiss” from now on in honor of this story. LOL
Rating: PG, clean but has medical drama like some details about surgeries and accidents.
April 15, 2021
Fluffy, Sweet Story
Fluffy, sweet story with good characters who were easy to root for. Great kiss buildup. Fun diversion. 3.5, rounding up.
Fluffy, sweet story with good characters who were easy to root for. Great kiss buildup. Fun diversion. 3.5, rounding up.
Want to read
March 22, 2021Nominated for a 2021 Swoony Award, to vote click here: https://tinyurl.com/y593ce67
April 13, 2021
i finished this book earlier today and i had difficulties forming my thoughts about it. i enjoyed it, i really did, because once i started reading, i couldn’t put it down. at the same time, i felt like it was missing something . here’s my attempt at forming my thoughts into words anyway:
‘second first kiss’ was heavily advertised as a romantic comedy book, the kind that could make you laugh out loud. unfortunately, i found that the jokes went over my head. some made me cringe, some just, well, made me feel nothing.
that said, i did enjoy the premise of this book. i loved that it’s set in a hospital and i loved that sage and jasher had a past — not just any past, but one where they shared a kiss. i’ve always enjoyed books where one of the character is secretly holding a torch for the other and that is the other thing i liked about this book.
right from the beginning, it was obvious that jasher had feelings from sage, although apart from being told that they shared a kiss and that she came to jasher’s dad’s funeral and that she was kind to jasher’s brother, i felt like the puzzle pieces as to why he’s holding on to an undying crush for sage didn’t quite fall into place — i wish we’d gotten more explanation on that.
as for sage, it was hinted that she had a curse — a curse that had made her not want to be in another relationship — and it wasn’t until towards the end that we got the answer but by then i thought it was anti-climactic. and i also thought it was... flat.
like i said, i enjoyed this book, it has some good parts, but i felt like it was missing something.
‘second first kiss’ was heavily advertised as a romantic comedy book, the kind that could make you laugh out loud. unfortunately, i found that the jokes went over my head. some made me cringe, some just, well, made me feel nothing.
that said, i did enjoy the premise of this book. i loved that it’s set in a hospital and i loved that sage and jasher had a past — not just any past, but one where they shared a kiss. i’ve always enjoyed books where one of the character is secretly holding a torch for the other and that is the other thing i liked about this book.
right from the beginning, it was obvious that jasher had feelings from sage, although apart from being told that they shared a kiss and that she came to jasher’s dad’s funeral and that she was kind to jasher’s brother, i felt like the puzzle pieces as to why he’s holding on to an undying crush for sage didn’t quite fall into place — i wish we’d gotten more explanation on that.
as for sage, it was hinted that she had a curse — a curse that had made her not want to be in another relationship — and it wasn’t until towards the end that we got the answer but by then i thought it was anti-climactic. and i also thought it was... flat.
like i said, i enjoyed this book, it has some good parts, but i felt like it was missing something.
March 17, 2021
I love a good romantic comedy. This one just felt so fun. I loved the premise behind it. And the characters were quirky. It was just great!
This one features Sage and Jasher. They have a bit of a history. And Jasher has an even bigger history that the reader doesn’t find out for quite a bit in the plot. That really kept me interested. I wanted to know what was up with him. He seemed like such a nice guy and the people of the town of Mendon just seemed to not like him, for some reason.
I really liked Sage. She’s a nurse anesthetist and she really cares about her town. I loved the way she tries to get Jasher to see the town the way she does. She just has a way of seeing the best in everything and everyone. A great trait to have.
I love how these two get roped on going on dates with each other. They just have such great chemistry. I didn’t want to stop reading until I figured out what would happen next.
This book will bring a smile to your face. I hope you love it as much as I did.
I was sent an e-copy of Second First Kiss as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
This one features Sage and Jasher. They have a bit of a history. And Jasher has an even bigger history that the reader doesn’t find out for quite a bit in the plot. That really kept me interested. I wanted to know what was up with him. He seemed like such a nice guy and the people of the town of Mendon just seemed to not like him, for some reason.
I really liked Sage. She’s a nurse anesthetist and she really cares about her town. I loved the way she tries to get Jasher to see the town the way she does. She just has a way of seeing the best in everything and everyone. A great trait to have.
I love how these two get roped on going on dates with each other. They just have such great chemistry. I didn’t want to stop reading until I figured out what would happen next.
This book will bring a smile to your face. I hope you love it as much as I did.
I was sent an e-copy of Second First Kiss as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.
May 26, 2021
Ugh. Ugh. Ugh. I wanted to like this one. It was wayyy too wordy for my liking. And a little boring. Way too much in the girls head.
March 17, 2021
A cute, clean story.
March 10, 2021
Romance, clean, contemporary;
Jasher and Sage's story was cute! More of a 3.5 for me as a reader. Good flow as for the story, and fun moments, told from alternating points of view. They had some great chemistry in the past, and seeing both of their perceptions of each other, and feelings and emotions was the perfect way to show their 'fall'. The dilemmas were cute, and loved seeing Jasher open up about his feelings over the course of the novel about Sage, and the town, and Sage open her heart again. Cute hometown type novel, and Sage's passion and convictions to help her town and hospital flourish, and be healthy and cared for was a perfect segue for this sweet romance. Perfect escape read!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review, my opinions are my own.
Jasher and Sage's story was cute! More of a 3.5 for me as a reader. Good flow as for the story, and fun moments, told from alternating points of view. They had some great chemistry in the past, and seeing both of their perceptions of each other, and feelings and emotions was the perfect way to show their 'fall'. The dilemmas were cute, and loved seeing Jasher open up about his feelings over the course of the novel about Sage, and the town, and Sage open her heart again. Cute hometown type novel, and Sage's passion and convictions to help her town and hospital flourish, and be healthy and cared for was a perfect segue for this sweet romance. Perfect escape read!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review, my opinions are my own.
August 26, 2021
1.5 stars
This somehow didn't meet my expectations even though they were pretty low to begin with. I was expecting a sort of fun, quick romance that didn't require me to think too much and that would basically just give me the baseline of what I expect from a romance.
That didn't happen for me with Second First Kiss.
All I wanted was for this story to give me the bare minimum and for a good while it looked like that was what it was doing. Around the middle point I was still thinking I'd give it a 2.5-3 star rating, because I wasn't hating it, it just wasn't all that good if you took the time to think about it.
The story and concept are very generic, which isn't a bad thing, because that's the reason I decided to read it right now. I was in the mood for a predictable kind of romance that wouldn't throw too many random things at me and would just keep to the basic storyline of what was promised. The stars I'm giving it are because it managed to do that for the most part. It fulfilled my need for a romance with a simple plot and it didn't go too crazy with drama towards the end, which I'm thankful for.
What it didn't have, was good writing. Nothing in the story was glaringly offensive, so overall I guess if the writing manages to work for someone, it could be an okay read. But even then there's things I really didn't like that had to do more with the outlining and execution of the plot than the kind-of-boring writing.
Other than those things, a bunch of smaller things kind of bothered me here and there, but those weren't part of the main skeleton of the story, so I'm gonna leave those be.
TL;DR: I don't have this very often at all (barely ever), but even though this quick story was very cheap, I wouldn't give my 4 EUR to it if I could travel back in time.
This somehow didn't meet my expectations even though they were pretty low to begin with. I was expecting a sort of fun, quick romance that didn't require me to think too much and that would basically just give me the baseline of what I expect from a romance.
That didn't happen for me with Second First Kiss.
All I wanted was for this story to give me the bare minimum and for a good while it looked like that was what it was doing. Around the middle point I was still thinking I'd give it a 2.5-3 star rating, because I wasn't hating it, it just wasn't all that good if you took the time to think about it.
The story and concept are very generic, which isn't a bad thing, because that's the reason I decided to read it right now. I was in the mood for a predictable kind of romance that wouldn't throw too many random things at me and would just keep to the basic storyline of what was promised. The stars I'm giving it are because it managed to do that for the most part. It fulfilled my need for a romance with a simple plot and it didn't go too crazy with drama towards the end, which I'm thankful for.
What it didn't have, was good writing. Nothing in the story was glaringly offensive, so overall I guess if the writing manages to work for someone, it could be an okay read. But even then there's things I really didn't like that had to do more with the outlining and execution of the plot than the kind-of-boring writing.
Other than those things, a bunch of smaller things kind of bothered me here and there, but those weren't part of the main skeleton of the story, so I'm gonna leave those be.
TL;DR: I don't have this very often at all (barely ever), but even though this quick story was very cheap, I wouldn't give my 4 EUR to it if I could travel back in time.
February 10, 2022
I got this through Kindle Unlimited simply because I love the color pink and the title looked promising. So, this book has at least one thing going for it, the cover.
Now as for the content of the book, I don’t think the author used the word kiss enough. (This is sarcasm by the way). Both leads think about a high school kiss in nearly every scene where they were thinking about each other after reconnecting. It was absurd and by the end, the word kiss has basically lost all meaning to me.
Now, I won’t lie and say that their dates weren’t cute, because they were, but there is a character called Inchy who basically calls herself an inchworm and a pest and basically says there is a town bylaw that says if you don’t follow the rules of their absurd hospital bachelor auction fundraiser they fine you???? I’m pretty sure that’s unconstitutional, but for storyline sake, sure. I’ve read worse premises and storylines.
But that being said, there is a whole subplot of Jasher, the main male lead and his relationship with the townspeople that is absurd. COMPLETELY. I am from a small town. The author makes a mockery of what a small town is and the entire conflict is so over the top and bizarre and weird, that it lost me almost completely. Not to mention the cartoon villain, Cade, whose entire storyline and resolution comes out of nowhere and smacks you in the face. The author introduces him as the villain and then like immediately redeems him, as if we the readers even have a chance to learn to give a crap about him.
Sage, on the other hand, also has her “curse”, which again doesn’t even show up until near the end of the book is so lame and boring, that I didn’t care at all about that resolution.
Honestly, the chemistry is so completely lacking between these two characters that I was hoping they’d smother each other to death with their kisses so the story could end.
There is a cute character named Redmond and there is an entire subplot going on with Sage and sexism at her workplace, which the author did a nice job of resolving. So yay for feminism! I did enjoy that part a lot. So for that alone, I’m bumping my rating up from a 1.5 to 2.75/5
TL;DR:
This book was a pass for me because of cringey dialogue/thoughts of the characters, caricaturist and cartoonish descriptions of what a small town is like, fizzling chemistry instead of sizzling, but did have a nice subplot that addresses sexism in the workplace and some cute side characters.
Now as for the content of the book, I don’t think the author used the word kiss enough. (This is sarcasm by the way). Both leads think about a high school kiss in nearly every scene where they were thinking about each other after reconnecting. It was absurd and by the end, the word kiss has basically lost all meaning to me.
Now, I won’t lie and say that their dates weren’t cute, because they were, but there is a character called Inchy who basically calls herself an inchworm and a pest and basically says there is a town bylaw that says if you don’t follow the rules of their absurd hospital bachelor auction fundraiser they fine you???? I’m pretty sure that’s unconstitutional, but for storyline sake, sure. I’ve read worse premises and storylines.
But that being said, there is a whole subplot of Jasher, the main male lead and his relationship with the townspeople that is absurd. COMPLETELY. I am from a small town. The author makes a mockery of what a small town is and the entire conflict is so over the top and bizarre and weird, that it lost me almost completely. Not to mention the cartoon villain, Cade, whose entire storyline and resolution comes out of nowhere and smacks you in the face. The author introduces him as the villain and then like immediately redeems him, as if we the readers even have a chance to learn to give a crap about him.
Sage, on the other hand, also has her “curse”, which again doesn’t even show up until near the end of the book is so lame and boring, that I didn’t care at all about that resolution.
Honestly, the chemistry is so completely lacking between these two characters that I was hoping they’d smother each other to death with their kisses so the story could end.
There is a cute character named Redmond and there is an entire subplot going on with Sage and sexism at her workplace, which the author did a nice job of resolving. So yay for feminism! I did enjoy that part a lot. So for that alone, I’m bumping my rating up from a 1.5 to 2.75/5
TL;DR:
This book was a pass for me because of cringey dialogue/thoughts of the characters, caricaturist and cartoonish descriptions of what a small town is like, fizzling chemistry instead of sizzling, but did have a nice subplot that addresses sexism in the workplace and some cute side characters.
March 12, 2022
2.5 stars, but this was not a bad book. The plot is actually pretty good - I love the premise. I ESPECIALLY love the way Jasher handles Sage's curse. Personally, I don't believe in curses, and I've always found "I'm cursed" thinking very ridiculous. Sage was no exception. However, I have also realised that this kind of thinking - believing a Lie - is a little like dealing with a phobia or with chronic pain. There may be no discernible basis for that fear/pain in physical reality, but this does not mean it is not a mental reality that severely affects the person suffering, and it's worse than helpful to just tell them "it's just in your head" or "that's ridiculous". So I loved how Jasher took her seriously and actually addressed the underlying assumptions that fed the Lie that she was cursed. He didn't just say "I'm different, you're not cursed, stop being stupid" - he put in effort to actually help her really dismantle the Lie.
Now, the bad. (Sorry.)
There's a lot of staring at lips / sexual tension / fantasing about kissing the other person (past or present). I hated that. I read romance, but this is not something I identify with and I definitely dislike it when it characterizes all their interactions. And I HATE it when it's in a professional setting, especially a literally life-in-the-balance one like the operating theater! This is really my main gripe with the book. If you like reading the book version of Grey's anatomy, without the sex, you'd enjoy this book. I don't, so I really didn't like it.
Second, minor gripe (minor because I know this is subjective) - I don't find this book funny. It's billed as a rom com, but it's not funny, and I was really looking for funny.
Final, minor gripe - McGreely and Cade were incredibly repulsive at the beginning, but did a complete personality flip at the end. Not a huge deal, but still a bit annoying.
Now, the bad. (Sorry.)
There's a lot of staring at lips / sexual tension / fantasing about kissing the other person (past or present). I hated that. I read romance, but this is not something I identify with and I definitely dislike it when it characterizes all their interactions. And I HATE it when it's in a professional setting, especially a literally life-in-the-balance one like the operating theater! This is really my main gripe with the book. If you like reading the book version of Grey's anatomy, without the sex, you'd enjoy this book. I don't, so I really didn't like it.
Second, minor gripe (minor because I know this is subjective) - I don't find this book funny. It's billed as a rom com, but it's not funny, and I was really looking for funny.
Final, minor gripe - McGreely and Cade were incredibly repulsive at the beginning, but did a complete personality flip at the end. Not a huge deal, but still a bit annoying.
March 17, 2021
Second First Kiss by Jennifer Griffith (5 stars)
A swoon-worthy story with lots of fun small-town characters adding life, interest and some humor to the plot.
A nurse anesthetist who knows she’s cursed and a doctor who made one mistake in High School and is forced to come back to his hometown and face the still-angry populace. Fun times await in small-town Mendon!
The main characters are very likable and unselfish, they just need to find their way. Both have issues that need to be resolved and both find that those issues melt away when they are together. Better than that, they find that they are both better people when they are together.
Their dates are pretty cute and kind of gross..which add another element of kitschy humor.
The romance is steamy clean with lots of chemistry and a tingle-worthy build-up to their first kiss (actually it’s their second kiss, but you’ll have to read the story to see what that statement is all about).
Jennifer Griffith always writes sweet, clean, but swoon-worthy romance and always give the reader an HEA that makes sense and will last.
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
A swoon-worthy story with lots of fun small-town characters adding life, interest and some humor to the plot.
A nurse anesthetist who knows she’s cursed and a doctor who made one mistake in High School and is forced to come back to his hometown and face the still-angry populace. Fun times await in small-town Mendon!
The main characters are very likable and unselfish, they just need to find their way. Both have issues that need to be resolved and both find that those issues melt away when they are together. Better than that, they find that they are both better people when they are together.
Their dates are pretty cute and kind of gross..which add another element of kitschy humor.
The romance is steamy clean with lots of chemistry and a tingle-worthy build-up to their first kiss (actually it’s their second kiss, but you’ll have to read the story to see what that statement is all about).
Jennifer Griffith always writes sweet, clean, but swoon-worthy romance and always give the reader an HEA that makes sense and will last.
*poor, **ok, ***good, ****very good, *****something special
March 18, 2021
Sweet Chemistry in a Hospital
Jasher and Sage had an unforgettable kissing booth kiss in high school. Years later he’s returned to Mendon as a doctor, but the town hates him for a pivotal loss in the high school championship game. Really people?
Sage bids on Jasher unknowingly at the hospital bachelor auction. Can their dates lead to a second first kiss?
Spoiler alert: there are some really good kisses!
I loved the chemistry between Sage and Jasher, especially at work at the hospital. They were fairly combustible!
I also loved the small town setting, the random cast of characters, the unusual date locations Jasher chose, and the scenes at the hospital.
If you’re looking for a light, swoony, and funny read, look no further!
The only thing I would change about this book is that I would love to see their first kiss. Can we get a bonus scene?
Content: clean (making out, no violence, no language)
Jasher and Sage had an unforgettable kissing booth kiss in high school. Years later he’s returned to Mendon as a doctor, but the town hates him for a pivotal loss in the high school championship game. Really people?
Sage bids on Jasher unknowingly at the hospital bachelor auction. Can their dates lead to a second first kiss?
Spoiler alert: there are some really good kisses!
I loved the chemistry between Sage and Jasher, especially at work at the hospital. They were fairly combustible!
I also loved the small town setting, the random cast of characters, the unusual date locations Jasher chose, and the scenes at the hospital.
If you’re looking for a light, swoony, and funny read, look no further!
The only thing I would change about this book is that I would love to see their first kiss. Can we get a bonus scene?
Content: clean (making out, no violence, no language)
April 7, 2022
They are Grown Adults but Act like Teenagers
(2.5) This is a nice cute story, but overall it is very juvenile.The characters are not believable. You would think a grown doctor and nurse (who’s a widow) would have more to talk about than a kissing booth kiss and a failed pass at a basketball game a decade earlier. They mention their high school kiss more than they actually kiss in the book. I liked how the characters were likable (although boring and I can’t tell you any personality traits other than the man being shirtless and the woman being a widow.) it’s always nice to see a slightly older female mc. Other than the auction and that one kiss they shared A DECAdE AGO, there’s not much going on in the plot. I rated this on the high side because I would recommend this book to YA lovers. I would not read this again.
(2.5) This is a nice cute story, but overall it is very juvenile.The characters are not believable. You would think a grown doctor and nurse (who’s a widow) would have more to talk about than a kissing booth kiss and a failed pass at a basketball game a decade earlier. They mention their high school kiss more than they actually kiss in the book. I liked how the characters were likable (although boring and I can’t tell you any personality traits other than the man being shirtless and the woman being a widow.) it’s always nice to see a slightly older female mc. Other than the auction and that one kiss they shared A DECAdE AGO, there’s not much going on in the plot. I rated this on the high side because I would recommend this book to YA lovers. I would not read this again.
March 17, 2021
I find it ironic that when I first read the name of the hero in this book my brain read Hot-kiss instead of Hotchkiss. So appropriate. And there are lots of hot kisses in this book. If big kisses make you swoony this will be a good book for it.
It was an interesting story with elements I've not seen in other books I've read. It isn't my favorite Griffith book but it was good. I loved that the heroine was smart, and less prone to listen to gossip. And I love how she made her choice on where to put her bid.
Sex: lots of kissing
Language: no
Violence: no
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
It was an interesting story with elements I've not seen in other books I've read. It isn't my favorite Griffith book but it was good. I loved that the heroine was smart, and less prone to listen to gossip. And I love how she made her choice on where to put her bid.
Sex: lots of kissing
Language: no
Violence: no
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
March 17, 2021
What do you get when a cursed nurse anesthetist and a surgeon who is heckled for a high school basketball game outcome accidentally get paired up?
Well for one thing, a lot of frustration. Then there's longing and admiration and of course sexual tension. And a darn good summer with 5 special dates and a whole lot of blood and gore. (Hospital-doctor-nurse, remember. Everyday occurrences for them.)
A fun story with a couple twists along the way. It's all being better because of others, loyalty, and family. The kind of book that makes you feel the summer sunshine and share the good feelings. A gentle read that was pure pleasure to read and watch the developments.
Well for one thing, a lot of frustration. Then there's longing and admiration and of course sexual tension. And a darn good summer with 5 special dates and a whole lot of blood and gore. (Hospital-doctor-nurse, remember. Everyday occurrences for them.)
A fun story with a couple twists along the way. It's all being better because of others, loyalty, and family. The kind of book that makes you feel the summer sunshine and share the good feelings. A gentle read that was pure pleasure to read and watch the developments.
May 24, 2021
2.5 Stars - I wasn't feeling the chemistry
There was definitely some chemistry, but I just wasn't feeling it as much at the end. There's also a lot of repetition in the beginning about a memorable kiss. The repetition over and over drove me a little nuts. I will say this is a fun premise for a story. I really like Jennifer Griffith. I also loved the closet scene in this book. The chemistry seemed to build up until the closet scene and then it fizzled.
Content: Clean
Language: Clean
Religious: No
Happy reading!!
There was definitely some chemistry, but I just wasn't feeling it as much at the end. There's also a lot of repetition in the beginning about a memorable kiss. The repetition over and over drove me a little nuts. I will say this is a fun premise for a story. I really like Jennifer Griffith. I also loved the closet scene in this book. The chemistry seemed to build up until the closet scene and then it fizzled.
Content: Clean
Language: Clean
Religious: No
Happy reading!!
November 1, 2022
While We’re Here
Sadness and duty brought Dr. Hotchkiss to his old town where he finds a reminder of a special memory of someone from high school. Opportunity to flourish is awaiting him in another town where he could have newer pleasant experiences, yet he’s lured to consider making meaningful use of his time in Mendon. This story is a blend of dutiful and leisurely times that keep the readers on route to cherishing the moment the characters’ realize value amidst difficulty.
Sadness and duty brought Dr. Hotchkiss to his old town where he finds a reminder of a special memory of someone from high school. Opportunity to flourish is awaiting him in another town where he could have newer pleasant experiences, yet he’s lured to consider making meaningful use of his time in Mendon. This story is a blend of dutiful and leisurely times that keep the readers on route to cherishing the moment the characters’ realize value amidst difficulty.
January 8, 2022
A REALLY well written, well planned, Story!
Although it was obvious from the very beginning how the Story would end, it was also a VERY enjoyable 'ride' to get there. I really enjoyed reading how the two main characters fell for each other, and read how well they worked together. This sentiment from an old man who is really a Romantic at heart, and who has been happily married to the same woman for over 50 years!
Although it was obvious from the very beginning how the Story would end, it was also a VERY enjoyable 'ride' to get there. I really enjoyed reading how the two main characters fell for each other, and read how well they worked together. This sentiment from an old man who is really a Romantic at heart, and who has been happily married to the same woman for over 50 years!
February 9, 2023
Truly enjoyed
I truly enjoyed this sweet read. The characters were believable. Yeah it might have some cheese as other reviewers mentioned but nothing to distract from the story. I love how Dr. Hotchkiss has a passion for the patients and willing served regardless of how he was treated.
Definitely worth the time and I recommend this book. This is a clean read. I would not call it a Christian \inspirational but clean.
I truly enjoyed this sweet read. The characters were believable. Yeah it might have some cheese as other reviewers mentioned but nothing to distract from the story. I love how Dr. Hotchkiss has a passion for the patients and willing served regardless of how he was treated.
Definitely worth the time and I recommend this book. This is a clean read. I would not call it a Christian \inspirational but clean.
February 11, 2024
Jasher and Sage's story is a sweet romance. Jasher comes back to Mendon when his stepfather passes away and leave his clinic to Jasher. In high school, Jasher cost the basketball team the state championship and the town seemed to hate him-vehemently! While working with Sage at the hospital, Jasher began to win the town over with his talented surgical skills. But it seems Sage plays a huge role in his success.
March 17, 2021
I got a kick out this book! So much great bantering I had a smile on my face the whole time I was reading. Great rom com! I love Ms Griffith’s writing style. It has a gentle flow with an unassuming and unexpected twist that adds lighthearted moments we can easily relate to. I can easily recommend this read.
March 18, 2021
Once again Jennifer Griffith delivers swoony fun, laugh out loud moments, sassy banter and a sweet romance in Second First Kiss. (You will understand the title when you read the book.) Sage and Jasher have great chemistry. This is a very well written romantic comedy that kept me reading too late at night because I could not put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed Jasher and Sage's journey to an HEA.
March 18, 2021
Jasher and Sage make quite the couple. The town still holds a grudge against him - I thought was ridiculous. Sage thinks she is cursed in the love department - well whoever is with her is cursed - this was a little silly to me. Both of these things make for a great story and adds to their romance. Great inner dialogue!!! Liked seeing them change their thoughts together. Really sweet ending.
March 18, 2021
A cute story involving an unforgettable kiss as teenagers. Years later they end up working together as a doctor and a nurse. They test their kissing skills and they are pretty good. Only problem is he may be selling the clinic that helps so many and be moving away. Will love save the clinic and keep those kisses coming?
July 8, 2021
Sage and Jasher
I choose a 5 star rating because I loved this book!!! Definitely swoon worthy. I loved that they worked in the hospital together. I highly recommend this swoon worthy book to all who love a good, clean romance. I also love reading from each of their points of view. Happy reading!😍
I choose a 5 star rating because I loved this book!!! Definitely swoon worthy. I loved that they worked in the hospital together. I highly recommend this swoon worthy book to all who love a good, clean romance. I also love reading from each of their points of view. Happy reading!😍
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