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Midnight in Dallas #2
Home Again
Ella Claiborne is ready to find love again. Long since widowed and with her daughter Grace leaving the country, Ella dives headfirst into the dating pool to ease her loneliness. After her date ditches her at her best friend’s wedding, Ella quickly realizes there’s only one man she’s truly interested in. There’s just one problem--he’s her daughter’s boss.
Cash Montgomery has already loved and lost. After losing his wife to cancer, he isn’t sure he’s ready to put himself back out there, but he finds himself drawn to Ella. After one unforgettable night, Cash begins to wonder if there could be a future for the two of them.
With one devastating phone call, Cash and Ella are tossed into a whirlwind of emotions. Once the dust settles, Cash must decide if he’s ready to let go of the ghost of his former love, and Ella is faced with the realization that grief changes us forever. Home Again, the second installment of the Midnight in Dallas series, is a story about second chances and the people who remind us of who we are when we’ve forgotten.
Cash Montgomery has already loved and lost. After losing his wife to cancer, he isn’t sure he’s ready to put himself back out there, but he finds himself drawn to Ella. After one unforgettable night, Cash begins to wonder if there could be a future for the two of them.
With one devastating phone call, Cash and Ella are tossed into a whirlwind of emotions. Once the dust settles, Cash must decide if he’s ready to let go of the ghost of his former love, and Ella is faced with the realization that grief changes us forever. Home Again, the second installment of the Midnight in Dallas series, is a story about second chances and the people who remind us of who we are when we’ve forgotten.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2021
24 people are currently reading
3640 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Grace
7 books818 followersMelissa Grace is the author of the Midnight in Dallas romcom series, and her freelance work has been featured in publications like Medium, Thought Catalog, and The Mighty. She resides just outside of Nashville, Tennessee with her husband and many fur children. When she’s not writing, she can often be found reading or curled up in her bed with snacks like a trash panda, avoiding simple tasks because of her anxiety.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
June 20, 2021
This book exceeded my expectations! Much like the first in the series, there’s a really authentic quality to not only the romance but also the friendships. I really enjoyed Home Is Where You Are, but Home Again just hit my heart a little bit harder.
Both widowed, Cash and Ella have a shared experience of navigating the hurdles that come with finding love after loss. Along with Cash being the CEO of Carrie on Records, he is also the boss of Ella’s daughter, giving a touch of forbidden love that fuels the undeniable chemistry between them.
The found family within the Midnight in Dallas crew is one of my favourite aspects to this series. The friendship between Liv and Ella continues to be a highlight for me, and seeing their relationship overcome its own challenges in book two felt perfectly placed and a true reflection of life.
I love that Melissa Grace adds complexities to her stories that aren’t magically fixed. Filled with warmth and a touch of humour, I could go on and on about this gem of a romance. It was such a beautiful story.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
Both widowed, Cash and Ella have a shared experience of navigating the hurdles that come with finding love after loss. Along with Cash being the CEO of Carrie on Records, he is also the boss of Ella’s daughter, giving a touch of forbidden love that fuels the undeniable chemistry between them.
The found family within the Midnight in Dallas crew is one of my favourite aspects to this series. The friendship between Liv and Ella continues to be a highlight for me, and seeing their relationship overcome its own challenges in book two felt perfectly placed and a true reflection of life.
I love that Melissa Grace adds complexities to her stories that aren’t magically fixed. Filled with warmth and a touch of humour, I could go on and on about this gem of a romance. It was such a beautiful story.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
June 16, 2021
arc kindly provided by melissa grace
ella’s life is changing fast: her best friend liv just got married, and her daughter grace is leaving the country for work for the summer. ever since she lost her husband, they’re all she has known. when she met cash at the same meet & greet that got liv and jax together, she thought she was having a crush. but cash, also a widower, reciprocates the feeling. are they ready to find love, and a home again?
this book. oh my god. i knew i was gonna love it because i loved home is where you are and i was super invested in cash and ella. but god, i can’t explain with words how much i loved this book. it was perfect, and everything i was dreaming for cash and ella.
to begin, i have to say that this story is as heartbreaking as beautiful. both cash and ella know grief like the back of their hands, and i loved every single part of it. how the writing shows that grief and love can coexist, and that moving on doesn’t mean forgetting, but making room for someone else. seriously, so many people i know need to read this book to finally learn that people can still find love after losing someone.
if book one lives in my heart because of the precious found family these people have, home again is the new king of it. cash and grace’s bond is the most beautiful one, grace and derek-aka-the-love-of-my-life’s friendship made me so happy, and of course, liv and ella’s. not to mention cash relationship with delilah and richard. my heart is so incredibly full thanks to these characters!
i seriously have nothing but words of adoration for this book. it was different from hiwya, but also similar in its essence: a group of people learning to love, some of them again, some of them for the first time, and all of them having the most beautiful and realistic feelings ever. do not miss out on this series, please. it’s a gem, and mel: i already told you my heart was yours to step on… never forget that! <3
ella’s life is changing fast: her best friend liv just got married, and her daughter grace is leaving the country for work for the summer. ever since she lost her husband, they’re all she has known. when she met cash at the same meet & greet that got liv and jax together, she thought she was having a crush. but cash, also a widower, reciprocates the feeling. are they ready to find love, and a home again?
this book. oh my god. i knew i was gonna love it because i loved home is where you are and i was super invested in cash and ella. but god, i can’t explain with words how much i loved this book. it was perfect, and everything i was dreaming for cash and ella.
to begin, i have to say that this story is as heartbreaking as beautiful. both cash and ella know grief like the back of their hands, and i loved every single part of it. how the writing shows that grief and love can coexist, and that moving on doesn’t mean forgetting, but making room for someone else. seriously, so many people i know need to read this book to finally learn that people can still find love after losing someone.
if book one lives in my heart because of the precious found family these people have, home again is the new king of it. cash and grace’s bond is the most beautiful one, grace and derek-aka-the-love-of-my-life’s friendship made me so happy, and of course, liv and ella’s. not to mention cash relationship with delilah and richard. my heart is so incredibly full thanks to these characters!
i seriously have nothing but words of adoration for this book. it was different from hiwya, but also similar in its essence: a group of people learning to love, some of them again, some of them for the first time, and all of them having the most beautiful and realistic feelings ever. do not miss out on this series, please. it’s a gem, and mel: i already told you my heart was yours to step on… never forget that! <3
August 3, 2021
This is the sophomore book in Melissa Grace's series that follows the men from the band Midnight in Dallas and OMG it does not disappoint. I love going through this found family and getting to read all of their stories. Ella and Cash had such a complex relationship due to their pasts, but because of that their love was rooted in such a deep understanding of each other and became a beautiful expression of love after grief. But don't let the heaviness fool you. This book was adorable and funny. A true rom-com. Plus a little steam which is new from the last one and beautifully executed. Cash and Ella are my favorite couple so far and I can't wait to see whose book is next! Pick this one up ASAP!
August 7, 2022
Heartwarming fun
Another great book in the Midnight in Dallas series!! I loved Ella’s and Cash’s stories (not to mention dog Bradley Cooper). The book tackles some heavier topics including caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s and the grief of losing a spouse. Highly recommended for fans of Lyssa Kay Adams and Abby Jimenez! I can’t wait to start the next book!!
Another great book in the Midnight in Dallas series!! I loved Ella’s and Cash’s stories (not to mention dog Bradley Cooper). The book tackles some heavier topics including caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s and the grief of losing a spouse. Highly recommended for fans of Lyssa Kay Adams and Abby Jimenez! I can’t wait to start the next book!!
January 17, 2022
Wow. This book. This book is so beautiful, genuine, and so well written. Through the first and now second book in her Midnight in Dallas series, Melissa has created these wonderful characters who I’ve grown to love, in these stories that mimic real life. She writes in a way that you can’t help but feel intertwined with these characters and their lives. I absolutely adore this little family that she has created.
Widowed Ella lives with her daughter Grace. She dives into the dating pool to cure her loneliness. She ends up finding a unlikely match who ends up ditching her at her best friends wedding…. where she actually realizes there is only one man she’s truly interested in…. Cash… her daughter’s boss. Cash is the owner of Carrie On Records, and is also grieving from the loss of his wife, but finds himself drawn to Ella too. After one unforgettable night together, he’s almost certain there might be something there. But is he ready to let go of what’s been holding him back? Is it possible that falling in love can happen twice in a lifetime?
This story will break you a few times, and then put you back together, exceed your expectations, and then leave you wanting so much more.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
Widowed Ella lives with her daughter Grace. She dives into the dating pool to cure her loneliness. She ends up finding a unlikely match who ends up ditching her at her best friends wedding…. where she actually realizes there is only one man she’s truly interested in…. Cash… her daughter’s boss. Cash is the owner of Carrie On Records, and is also grieving from the loss of his wife, but finds himself drawn to Ella too. After one unforgettable night together, he’s almost certain there might be something there. But is he ready to let go of what’s been holding him back? Is it possible that falling in love can happen twice in a lifetime?
This story will break you a few times, and then put you back together, exceed your expectations, and then leave you wanting so much more.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
May 29, 2022
*Thanks to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Melissa came out swinging with her sophomore romance and I’m in awe of her. The depth of emotion, the character growth, the strong writing, the humor, the added steammmmmmmmm in this sequel to Home is Where You Are was *chefs kiss.*
This rom com set in Nashville about two people who have both experienced loss made me giddy with some of the swoony moments. I laughed out loud and cried literally multiple times. Also, the mama/daughter moments between Ella and Grace made my heart hurt in a good way that gave me Gilmore Girls vibes.
The beauty of indie publishing is that the author can change things with each book as they grow as a writer. This book feels different but also resonant with the first in the series and I can’t wait to see how Melissa and this series progresses further!
Thanks so much again to Melissa Grace for sharing her story with me. HOME AGAIN is out NOW!
⚠️CW: grief, death of a spouse, Alzheimer’s, HP references, car accident, sexual content, cancer
Melissa came out swinging with her sophomore romance and I’m in awe of her. The depth of emotion, the character growth, the strong writing, the humor, the added steammmmmmmmm in this sequel to Home is Where You Are was *chefs kiss.*
This rom com set in Nashville about two people who have both experienced loss made me giddy with some of the swoony moments. I laughed out loud and cried literally multiple times. Also, the mama/daughter moments between Ella and Grace made my heart hurt in a good way that gave me Gilmore Girls vibes.
The beauty of indie publishing is that the author can change things with each book as they grow as a writer. This book feels different but also resonant with the first in the series and I can’t wait to see how Melissa and this series progresses further!
Thanks so much again to Melissa Grace for sharing her story with me. HOME AGAIN is out NOW!
⚠️CW: grief, death of a spouse, Alzheimer’s, HP references, car accident, sexual content, cancer
July 22, 2021
I knew going into this book it was going to be emotional. But damn. That last chapter had me in tears!
This was such a beautiful book. Ella and Cash have gravitated to each other since they first met, and I loved how their relationship developed. Like this force was just pushing them together and they couldn’t take it anymore! They had amazing chemistry!
Ella is spunky, sassy and full of jokes. I loved getting to know her even more and reading how she overcomes her personal trials.
And Cash. He is sweet, kind and perfect in every way for Ella. He’s got emotional baggage from losing his wife and is working through all that.
All the characters just so amazing. And I really can’t wait for who is next 😍
This was such a beautiful book. Ella and Cash have gravitated to each other since they first met, and I loved how their relationship developed. Like this force was just pushing them together and they couldn’t take it anymore! They had amazing chemistry!
Ella is spunky, sassy and full of jokes. I loved getting to know her even more and reading how she overcomes her personal trials.
And Cash. He is sweet, kind and perfect in every way for Ella. He’s got emotional baggage from losing his wife and is working through all that.
All the characters just so amazing. And I really can’t wait for who is next 😍
September 23, 2022
“Those who love us never truly leave us.”
Home Again is the follow-up to Home Is Where You Are, but can be read as a standalone. It is a beautiful story that follows Ella and Cash as they are trying to move on from the death of their spouses. Ella's husband died suddenly, leaving her as a single parent. Cash's wife died after battling cancer. Both are ready to move on and start dating, but they are afraid of ruining their friendship, along with their found family, if the relationship falls off the rails. When Ella's daughter goes to spend the summer in England, the pair decide to test the waters with each other.
This friends to lovers romance is beyond perfection. I laughed, I cried, and could not stop smiling while reading it. With their friends Liv and Jax getting married, both Cash and Ella are struggling with feeling like everyone else around them is moving on, while they are at a standstill. They are happy, but not truly happy, as they are still deeply grieving. This book helped me sort through some of my own grief and was a welcome escape during very tough days.
Ella is the most hilarious and over the top heroine ever and I want to be her best friend. I laughed at so many of her one-liners. Snarky and sarcastic, she loves big and is fiercely independent. While she is not a hopeless romantic, she does want to find someone to wake up to in the mornings. Ella is intense and protective. I love that she has no fear and will speak her mind.
Cash just gets Ella. He has an incredibly big heart and he loves big. Even with all Ella's flaws and all her baggage, Cash just gets her and accepts her. Not only does Cash accept Ella, he fights for her. He is so tender and sweet and caring. But despite his put together, tough exterior, Cash is still dealing with deep-seeded grief. I loved how his character way portrayed.
Together, Cash and Ella just make sense. She is the wild to his reserved. Their banter is hilarious and they understand each other better than anyone else could. They have shared history and this only adds to the deep connection that is evident from the first few chapters of the book. I was immediately invested in their relationship, because there is a high level of intimacy between the two, which is rare in books. Many times you get either the physical or emotional chemistry, but in Home Again, you get both. I love that they're in their 40s and they don't screw around or play games. They know what they want and they both go after it.
On top of Ella and Cash's relationship, you get to see the evolution of Ella's relationship with her best friend Liv. Ella is used to having Liv to count on and go to for everything, but after Liv's marriage and her being thrusted into foster parenting, their friendship takes a hit. This is such a relatable theme to real life and despite their strong friendship, the friendship goes through hard times. I love that this wasn't sugar-coated. Friendships change, people grow and sometimes this leads to hurt and people growing apart.
Some highlights of the book include:
• Spanx
• Bradley Cooper
• Goat yoga
Home Again is an absolute masterpiece. It is emotional, heartfelt and raw. This story mirrors real life and makes you think. I felt every emotional right alongside Ella and Cash. Home Again is full of unexpected surprises; there were twists I did not see coming. Hands down, one of the top 5 books I've read this year. 5 stars does not do this book justice. All the love for Home Again.
⚠️CW: Alzheimer’s, previous death of spouse, foster care
Home Again is out July 27. Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Home Again is the follow-up to Home Is Where You Are, but can be read as a standalone. It is a beautiful story that follows Ella and Cash as they are trying to move on from the death of their spouses. Ella's husband died suddenly, leaving her as a single parent. Cash's wife died after battling cancer. Both are ready to move on and start dating, but they are afraid of ruining their friendship, along with their found family, if the relationship falls off the rails. When Ella's daughter goes to spend the summer in England, the pair decide to test the waters with each other.
This friends to lovers romance is beyond perfection. I laughed, I cried, and could not stop smiling while reading it. With their friends Liv and Jax getting married, both Cash and Ella are struggling with feeling like everyone else around them is moving on, while they are at a standstill. They are happy, but not truly happy, as they are still deeply grieving. This book helped me sort through some of my own grief and was a welcome escape during very tough days.
Ella is the most hilarious and over the top heroine ever and I want to be her best friend. I laughed at so many of her one-liners. Snarky and sarcastic, she loves big and is fiercely independent. While she is not a hopeless romantic, she does want to find someone to wake up to in the mornings. Ella is intense and protective. I love that she has no fear and will speak her mind.
Cash just gets Ella. He has an incredibly big heart and he loves big. Even with all Ella's flaws and all her baggage, Cash just gets her and accepts her. Not only does Cash accept Ella, he fights for her. He is so tender and sweet and caring. But despite his put together, tough exterior, Cash is still dealing with deep-seeded grief. I loved how his character way portrayed.
Together, Cash and Ella just make sense. She is the wild to his reserved. Their banter is hilarious and they understand each other better than anyone else could. They have shared history and this only adds to the deep connection that is evident from the first few chapters of the book. I was immediately invested in their relationship, because there is a high level of intimacy between the two, which is rare in books. Many times you get either the physical or emotional chemistry, but in Home Again, you get both. I love that they're in their 40s and they don't screw around or play games. They know what they want and they both go after it.
On top of Ella and Cash's relationship, you get to see the evolution of Ella's relationship with her best friend Liv. Ella is used to having Liv to count on and go to for everything, but after Liv's marriage and her being thrusted into foster parenting, their friendship takes a hit. This is such a relatable theme to real life and despite their strong friendship, the friendship goes through hard times. I love that this wasn't sugar-coated. Friendships change, people grow and sometimes this leads to hurt and people growing apart.
Some highlights of the book include:
• Spanx
• Bradley Cooper
• Goat yoga
Home Again is an absolute masterpiece. It is emotional, heartfelt and raw. This story mirrors real life and makes you think. I felt every emotional right alongside Ella and Cash. Home Again is full of unexpected surprises; there were twists I did not see coming. Hands down, one of the top 5 books I've read this year. 5 stars does not do this book justice. All the love for Home Again.
⚠️CW: Alzheimer’s, previous death of spouse, foster care
Home Again is out July 27. Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
June 1, 2022
A huge THANK YOU to Melissa for the eARC in exchange of an honest review.
⭐ 4.5 / 5 ⭐
•• What's this about? ••
Ella has been single for many years since her husband Craig died. She knows that she doesn't need anybody to be successful and being the best mom ever.
But now, she feels as if something is missing in her life. Her friends are getting married, chasing their dreams and her daughter is an adult now. So she feel a little behind.
Cash lost his wife a few years ago. And he hasn't been able to date anybody because of the grief.
After they met, everything changed.
The thing is, Ella doesn't doesn't want to date her daughter's boss. But after a night of too many drinks, they begin to wonder if there's a future for them as a couple.
•• What do I think about it? ••
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THING EVER.
I don't know where to start. Well, first I need to say that this one is way better than the first one. And HIWYA wasn't that bad, it's just that this one is so awesome in so many ways.
Let's start with the story. We'll, it's about how sometimes life gives us the second chance to find love. And how sometimes our friends and the people we care about become our family.
It's about dealing with the grief of loosing the person you thought would be always there for you. And how you can find support in other's.
I don't want to say much, but in general the story is pretty great.
About the characters...
Well, we have Ella. The most amazing female character. She is... so many things. A good friend. A good mother. A good daughter. She's funny, sensitive, but also really strong. And she is always acting like the mother of the group. Loved everything about her character.
I loved how she managed the situation and how she always knew she didn't need a man to be happy.
Cash... oh God. I loved Cash from the very first moment I read about him. He is always taking care of his friends. He's always being really sweet with Grace. And he is so damn handsome.
I couldn't bear knowing he was suffering. Even when I thought he was being a big idiot.
The secondary characters...
My favorites were Grace, Derek and Bradley Cooper. The three of them made perfect the story.
I loved the relationship between Derek and Ella. How they supported each other all the time.
Also, I really loved Richard and Delilah. The cutest.
Oh, and I cannot not mention about Jax and Liv's happy ending.
So, to finish this long review.
READ THIS BOOK RIGHT NOW.
I think this is going to be in my top of this year. Because everything was so beautiful.
The book is so easy to read that you don't feel the time while you read.
It's going to be more special if you read HIWYA first because you create a bond with all the characters.
I can't wait to continue reading about this beautiful family.
Come on, Melissa, we need to see Katie and Dallas in action.
TOTALLY RECOMMENDED.
⭐ 4.5 / 5 ⭐
•• What's this about? ••
Ella has been single for many years since her husband Craig died. She knows that she doesn't need anybody to be successful and being the best mom ever.
But now, she feels as if something is missing in her life. Her friends are getting married, chasing their dreams and her daughter is an adult now. So she feel a little behind.
Cash lost his wife a few years ago. And he hasn't been able to date anybody because of the grief.
After they met, everything changed.
The thing is, Ella doesn't doesn't want to date her daughter's boss. But after a night of too many drinks, they begin to wonder if there's a future for them as a couple.
•• What do I think about it? ••
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THING EVER.
I don't know where to start. Well, first I need to say that this one is way better than the first one. And HIWYA wasn't that bad, it's just that this one is so awesome in so many ways.
Let's start with the story. We'll, it's about how sometimes life gives us the second chance to find love. And how sometimes our friends and the people we care about become our family.
It's about dealing with the grief of loosing the person you thought would be always there for you. And how you can find support in other's.
I don't want to say much, but in general the story is pretty great.
About the characters...
Well, we have Ella. The most amazing female character. She is... so many things. A good friend. A good mother. A good daughter. She's funny, sensitive, but also really strong. And she is always acting like the mother of the group. Loved everything about her character.
I loved how she managed the situation and how she always knew she didn't need a man to be happy.
Cash... oh God. I loved Cash from the very first moment I read about him. He is always taking care of his friends. He's always being really sweet with Grace. And he is so damn handsome.
I couldn't bear knowing he was suffering. Even when I thought he was being a big idiot.
The secondary characters...
My favorites were Grace, Derek and Bradley Cooper. The three of them made perfect the story.
I loved the relationship between Derek and Ella. How they supported each other all the time.
Also, I really loved Richard and Delilah. The cutest.
Oh, and I cannot not mention about Jax and Liv's happy ending.
So, to finish this long review.
READ THIS BOOK RIGHT NOW.
I think this is going to be in my top of this year. Because everything was so beautiful.
The book is so easy to read that you don't feel the time while you read.
It's going to be more special if you read HIWYA first because you create a bond with all the characters.
I can't wait to continue reading about this beautiful family.
Come on, Melissa, we need to see Katie and Dallas in action.
TOTALLY RECOMMENDED.
July 20, 2024
First, I want to thank Melissa Grace (@heymelissagrace) for an e-ARC of this fantastic novel! I was so excited to jump straight into #HomeAgain by Melissa Grace after finishing #HomeIsWhereYouAre. I FLEW through this novel & I loved every second of it. After getting snippets of Ella in the first novel, I was so excited to learn that this novel in this series focuses on Ella & Cash. I was laughing out loud within the first chapter! Ella is a hoot & a half. Her humor & southern sayings had me giggling throughout! The emotions that Ella & Cash experienced throughout this novel are (in my opinion) more raw & intense…maybe because I knew these characters already or maybe because of their experiences with loss & grief. Which leads me to my next point, I really appreciated that Melissa did not shy away from the complexity of grief. I think this can be a tough topic to cover & I really felt that she did a beautiful job of exploring the layers of grieving. I thought it was so important that Ella & Cash made mistakes in the way they handled their relationship & the emotions that grief brought up for them. It highlighted the strength of apologizing & owning your errors. Both characters grew from this (learning that you can love someone & not like their choices at times). Plus, this novel highlighted the importance of being secure & independent on your own so that when you enter into a partnership, you both can be healthy. As tough as it was, I am glad that Ella & Cash took time to assess their own reactions & emotions before moving forward together. Other important points: Bradley Cooper is my favorite little rescue pup! And I thought that the author’s acknowledgements at the end were so wonderfully written. You can really tell that Melissa has such a caring & kind support team, but also that she has a very kind heart herself. Melissa, I am sure that your grandmother is so proud of you! 💕
June 21, 2021
This books is **chefs kiss** magnificent! I'm not going to be able to write a review to do it justice.
You know those books that you wish over and over agian you could be reading for the first time so you get to experience the magic like new. This is that type of book.
It has layers, found family (like all the Midnight books) humor, deals with heavy subjects like alzheimer's, foster care and death of a spouse (both cronic illnesses and sudden loss)
The writing is deep, layered, humorous and perfection.
If you haven't read home is where you are, make sure you read that first!
You know those books that you wish over and over agian you could be reading for the first time so you get to experience the magic like new. This is that type of book.
It has layers, found family (like all the Midnight books) humor, deals with heavy subjects like alzheimer's, foster care and death of a spouse (both cronic illnesses and sudden loss)
The writing is deep, layered, humorous and perfection.
If you haven't read home is where you are, make sure you read that first!
July 27, 2021
Reading Home Again by Melissa Grace made me wonder why the heck I still haven't read the first book to this series - Home Is Where You Are. I LOVED this book; first of all, I was laughing within the first few pages, but I also had tears in my eyes shortly after. I loved the way Grace mixed tough topics with humor and heart, and this novel totally reminded me of a sweary version of Abby Jimenez's Friend Zone series. I was immediately hooked and adored the fact that it basically opens with goat yoga. The Nashville setting was really fun since I love country music, and it made me wish I could go there ASAP. But the star of this book is really the characters, and there is so much to love about every single one of them. The viewpoint changes were perfect for the story, and I also loved the fact that both Cash and Ella are older. I am only 36 myself, but I feel like most of the books I read are about younger people so the fact that they are almost and over 40 made Home Again all the more refreshing.
Besides the fact that the characters are amazing, I loved how real they felt as well. They were all very relatable and their friendships were endearing and realistic to boot. There wasn't *too* much steam which was perfect for me, and I could totally see this being made into a movie. Like Jimenez's novels, Home Again will break your heart in multiple ways, but then Grace somehow manages to mend it back together in the best way. There are so many layers to this novel and I was incredibly impressed with it along with Grace being a self-published author. Honestly, if she wants it someone big should pick her up because this is one of the best romance's I have ever read. Home Again LITERALLY felt like coming home and had a cozy feel to it that I wasn't expecting. If I could wrap this book around me like a blanket I would, and I cannot WAIT to read book one and all the books to come!
Thank you to the author for my free digital copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Besides the fact that the characters are amazing, I loved how real they felt as well. They were all very relatable and their friendships were endearing and realistic to boot. There wasn't *too* much steam which was perfect for me, and I could totally see this being made into a movie. Like Jimenez's novels, Home Again will break your heart in multiple ways, but then Grace somehow manages to mend it back together in the best way. There are so many layers to this novel and I was incredibly impressed with it along with Grace being a self-published author. Honestly, if she wants it someone big should pick her up because this is one of the best romance's I have ever read. Home Again LITERALLY felt like coming home and had a cozy feel to it that I wasn't expecting. If I could wrap this book around me like a blanket I would, and I cannot WAIT to read book one and all the books to come!
Thank you to the author for my free digital copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
July 5, 2021
OH MY THIS BOOOOOOOK! It’s so good. A more detailed review to come once I get my thoughts and feelings all gathered up.
September 16, 2022
Enjoyed this more than the first one (and that one was still pretty great). Lovely story about love. Got a free digital copy to review, but my opinion is unbiased
October 9, 2021
Home Again is the second book in the Midnight in Dallas series. The first book focussed on Liv, whereas this focussed on her best friend, Ella.
For a long time, Ella’s life has been her daughter Grace and her best friend Liv, ever since her husband passed away. However, things are changing - Liv is now married, and Grace is now an adult and about to leave the country temporarily. She soon realises that she has feelings for Cash - the manager of Midnight in Dallas (the band we met in the first novel), and boss of her daughter. Ella isn’t quite sure what to do - surely this is too complicated? It is made even more complicated by the fact that Cash was widowed himself only a few years prior. Is love on the cards for them, or is it not meant to be?
I loved the first book in the series and this was no different. I became so invested in the characters and wanted to see what they did - and got frustrated when they got in their own way! Full of relationships, steam and humour, Home Again was a delight to read.
Thanks to @heymelissagrace for the review copy ☺️
For a long time, Ella’s life has been her daughter Grace and her best friend Liv, ever since her husband passed away. However, things are changing - Liv is now married, and Grace is now an adult and about to leave the country temporarily. She soon realises that she has feelings for Cash - the manager of Midnight in Dallas (the band we met in the first novel), and boss of her daughter. Ella isn’t quite sure what to do - surely this is too complicated? It is made even more complicated by the fact that Cash was widowed himself only a few years prior. Is love on the cards for them, or is it not meant to be?
I loved the first book in the series and this was no different. I became so invested in the characters and wanted to see what they did - and got frustrated when they got in their own way! Full of relationships, steam and humour, Home Again was a delight to read.
Thanks to @heymelissagrace for the review copy ☺️
July 31, 2021
I loved this book! Melissa has a magical touch that makes her books extremely relatable. I related to Jax and Liv (from her first book Home Is Where You Are), but Cash and Ella are even more relatable if that is even possible. A heartwarming book with twists you don’t see coming. This book is wonderful, amazing, heartfelt, charming, and will break your heart just to put it back together by the end. Cash and Ella are both widows within a found family who still have lots of love love to give. Their story is amazing, raw, real, and completely heartfelt. It is a wonderfully raw book that I want to read over and over again.
Thank you Melissa for allowing me the opportunity to read my first ever ARC. I’m so glad it was you book!
Thank you Melissa for allowing me the opportunity to read my first ever ARC. I’m so glad it was you book!
September 21, 2022
Ella is a single mom who helps run a bakery with her best friend Liv. Cash is a music producer with a crush on Ella. One night after a wedding their two worlds collide and leave them both in a spiral.
**Potential trigger warnings: death of a spouse, car accident, cancer scare**
I will say I liked this book a lot more than book 1. I was really invested in Ella and Cash’s story. They were 2 of my favorite characters in book 1 so it was really nice to see them develop over this book. Cash and Ella both lost a spouse too soon. They were able to relate to one another now that they both want to get back into the dating scene.
Ella was such a good friend to Liv in book 1 that I was a little shocked at how much Ella stepped back when Liv was able to get foster kiddos.
I really liked Grace (Ella’s daughter) in this book. She was a little older and going on her own adventure in England.
The 3rd act break up had me feeling so bad for all of them. Cash really struggled with the trauma he experienced when he lost his wife and it was heartbreaking to read. Ultimately, the two found their way back to one another and it was a really sweet ending to the book. Very heartfelt.
Thank you fo the author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
**Potential trigger warnings: death of a spouse, car accident, cancer scare**
I will say I liked this book a lot more than book 1. I was really invested in Ella and Cash’s story. They were 2 of my favorite characters in book 1 so it was really nice to see them develop over this book. Cash and Ella both lost a spouse too soon. They were able to relate to one another now that they both want to get back into the dating scene.
Ella was such a good friend to Liv in book 1 that I was a little shocked at how much Ella stepped back when Liv was able to get foster kiddos.
I really liked Grace (Ella’s daughter) in this book. She was a little older and going on her own adventure in England.
The 3rd act break up had me feeling so bad for all of them. Cash really struggled with the trauma he experienced when he lost his wife and it was heartbreaking to read. Ultimately, the two found their way back to one another and it was a really sweet ending to the book. Very heartfelt.
Thank you fo the author for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2023
Just the cutest book. It’s more than just a romance novel though. Melissa Grace so beautifully tackles the hardships of losing someone you love and loving someone with Alzheimer’s.
I loved following the path of Ella & Cash as they both come into this relationship with many losses and struggles. Ugh, I just love everything about this book.
I loved following the path of Ella & Cash as they both come into this relationship with many losses and struggles. Ugh, I just love everything about this book.
July 18, 2021
Home Again is a heartwarming romance novel told from Ella and Cash's perspectives that I devoured in 24 hours. Both have suffered losses in the past, but are they ready to move forward together? Home Again is all about life after loss and Melissa handles this topic in such a realistic and heartfelt way. Here are just some of the things I loved about Home Again:
- The characters, duh. I loved Ella's sharp and strong personality in the first book, so was overjoyed to read a book that centres on her new relationship. Cash is also such a supportive guy and I empathised with his internal grief struggle. I also liked that while Home is Where You Are set the scene, introduced everyone and focused on the music, this book primarily focused on Ella and Cash, with cameos from other characters. Grace is also just the best kid ❤.
- Ella and Cash's chemistry was obvious in book one. I think the only thing I wanted more of from this book was a bit more time spent developing their relationship before we hit the big conflict. Speaking of, I did not see that conflict or the catalyst coming!
- While the big topic in Home Again is grief and that feeling of guilt for finding love after loss, I also liked that it touched on other heartfelt topics, like Ella's mum's Alzheimer's diagnosis and Ella and Liv's relationship.
- Finally, can we please take a moment to appreciate how kind and welcoming Richard and Delilah were (Cash's in-laws)? The way they cared for him and that moment between Ella and Delilah at the end 100% had me tearing up and I rarely cry in books.
As you can see, I adored Home Again and encourage all romance readers to dive into this series. I'll just be over here impatiently waiting for book three now 😂.
I received an ARC from the author, but this rave review is all my own.
- The characters, duh. I loved Ella's sharp and strong personality in the first book, so was overjoyed to read a book that centres on her new relationship. Cash is also such a supportive guy and I empathised with his internal grief struggle. I also liked that while Home is Where You Are set the scene, introduced everyone and focused on the music, this book primarily focused on Ella and Cash, with cameos from other characters. Grace is also just the best kid ❤.
- Ella and Cash's chemistry was obvious in book one. I think the only thing I wanted more of from this book was a bit more time spent developing their relationship before we hit the big conflict. Speaking of, I did not see that conflict or the catalyst coming!
- While the big topic in Home Again is grief and that feeling of guilt for finding love after loss, I also liked that it touched on other heartfelt topics, like Ella's mum's Alzheimer's diagnosis and Ella and Liv's relationship.
- Finally, can we please take a moment to appreciate how kind and welcoming Richard and Delilah were (Cash's in-laws)? The way they cared for him and that moment between Ella and Delilah at the end 100% had me tearing up and I rarely cry in books.
As you can see, I adored Home Again and encourage all romance readers to dive into this series. I'll just be over here impatiently waiting for book three now 😂.
I received an ARC from the author, but this rave review is all my own.
July 28, 2021
Home Again by Melissa Grace was such a good book! This book is the second book in the Midnight in Dallas series. Ella and Cash, both widowed, are trying to move on from the death of their spouses. Ella is dealing with the sudden death of her husband and being a single parent to her daughter Grace. Cash’s wife passed away after losing a battle with cancer. These two are ready to date, but hesitant for ruining established relationships and their found family.
This friends to lovers romance was hilarious! Ella is strong, hilarious, snarky, sarcastic, and independent. She’s very protective, outspoken and is looking for someone who will accept her. Cash is sweet, caring, tender, yet tough. He accepts Ella for who she is and that made me swoon for him. These two fit together so well. They are like yin and yang, two pieces of a puzzle that just fit, no questions asked.
Home Again deals with grief over the death of a spouse, and it is handled with such care. Ella and Cash connect over their shared losses and their vulnerability with each other is endearing. I adored the development of their relationship from friends to lovers and the sense of family they found with each other.
This book was beautiful and I’m so glad I read it. I loved this exceptional story of learning to love again, finding family, and dealing with grief.
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This friends to lovers romance was hilarious! Ella is strong, hilarious, snarky, sarcastic, and independent. She’s very protective, outspoken and is looking for someone who will accept her. Cash is sweet, caring, tender, yet tough. He accepts Ella for who she is and that made me swoon for him. These two fit together so well. They are like yin and yang, two pieces of a puzzle that just fit, no questions asked.
Home Again deals with grief over the death of a spouse, and it is handled with such care. Ella and Cash connect over their shared losses and their vulnerability with each other is endearing. I adored the development of their relationship from friends to lovers and the sense of family they found with each other.
This book was beautiful and I’m so glad I read it. I loved this exceptional story of learning to love again, finding family, and dealing with grief.
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 9, 2022
Ella Claiborne is in a life transition as her teen daughter, Grace, is preparing to jet off to London for work, but while at her bestie’s wedding, Ella lets loose and finds joy and comfort in Grace’s boss but also friend, Cash Montgomery, who is also familiar with loss. They share a night of dancing, singing, flirting, and so much “more” when Cash takes Ella home.
The chemistry they have is obvious to their non-blood family and thanks to them, Cash and Ella are encouraged and supported as they maneuver in this path of a potential Nicolas Sparks HEA. You’ll enjoy this story as you partake of the genuine friendships started in the previous book. I appreciated the struggle between friends when one is married with kids and the struggle of not kicking a friend out of their circle when he’s a complete moron.
There may be triggers that may not be obvious at first. Ella’s Alzheimer’s mother, Ella’s hesitancy to go full throttle with Cash with the risk of losing their friendship, and Cash’s whispers of self-doubt and fear that he could be the man for Ella and the father figure for Grace are all components to drown in your own puddle of tears.
Melissa Grace writes so beautifully that it’s hard not to get your heart strings pulled. I highly recommend this book and even though you haven’t read “Home Is Where You Are” (which you should), you can easily read this as a standalone.
The chemistry they have is obvious to their non-blood family and thanks to them, Cash and Ella are encouraged and supported as they maneuver in this path of a potential Nicolas Sparks HEA. You’ll enjoy this story as you partake of the genuine friendships started in the previous book. I appreciated the struggle between friends when one is married with kids and the struggle of not kicking a friend out of their circle when he’s a complete moron.
There may be triggers that may not be obvious at first. Ella’s Alzheimer’s mother, Ella’s hesitancy to go full throttle with Cash with the risk of losing their friendship, and Cash’s whispers of self-doubt and fear that he could be the man for Ella and the father figure for Grace are all components to drown in your own puddle of tears.
Melissa Grace writes so beautifully that it’s hard not to get your heart strings pulled. I highly recommend this book and even though you haven’t read “Home Is Where You Are” (which you should), you can easily read this as a standalone.
August 16, 2022
4.5 stars
i was super excited to read about cash and ella and i was not disappointed!! i really loved how this book showed a romance that isn't written about as much--a second love story for both characters. since ella and cash were both widowed, i felt like the emotional parts of their love story were especially poignant and real, and i loved that they could understand that part of each other.
i also loved ella's point of view as an empty nester. it's so refreshing to see romance books about older people finding love, whether it's for the first or second or whatever time. (not that late 30s is old! just a bit older than other romance novels!)
i got a bit frustrated with the characters at the end just because i wanted them to get over their hangups and get together, but the events made sense and weren't thrown in for unnecessary drama.
i liked this one a lot more than book one and was left feeling super excited for book three!!
i was super excited to read about cash and ella and i was not disappointed!! i really loved how this book showed a romance that isn't written about as much--a second love story for both characters. since ella and cash were both widowed, i felt like the emotional parts of their love story were especially poignant and real, and i loved that they could understand that part of each other.
i also loved ella's point of view as an empty nester. it's so refreshing to see romance books about older people finding love, whether it's for the first or second or whatever time. (not that late 30s is old! just a bit older than other romance novels!)
i got a bit frustrated with the characters at the end just because i wanted them to get over their hangups and get together, but the events made sense and weren't thrown in for unnecessary drama.
i liked this one a lot more than book one and was left feeling super excited for book three!!
July 19, 2021
Ella Claiborne is ready to put her heart out for none other than Cash Montgomery, her daughter Grace’s boss. But Cash still reeling from the loss of his wife is a bit hesitant, until one unforgettable night.
I just love reading Melissa Grace’s novels - they always have just the right amount of cozy, romance, and intrigue, that once you start reading, you can’t seem to put it down. In this second installment of the series, it’s about second chances and moving on. It’s just such a beautiful and heartfelt story I enjoyed!
I just love reading Melissa Grace’s novels - they always have just the right amount of cozy, romance, and intrigue, that once you start reading, you can’t seem to put it down. In this second installment of the series, it’s about second chances and moving on. It’s just such a beautiful and heartfelt story I enjoyed!
April 2, 2023
Oh BABY! Cash and Ella caught my eye in book 1, but I'm so glad that I didn't have to wait for their relationship to step into the spotlight. Between them getting a second chance at love after losing their spouses and seeing Grace fall head over heels, it's all just so precious. Compared to Home is Where You Are, Home Again is DEFINITELY more unputdownable, so be warned. I loved how supportive Cash is, contrasting nicely with Ella's sass. And the meddling, oh the meddling! It's worth noting that Bradley Cooper is the star of the show of course, but Cash and Ella play a great second fiddle.
August 29, 2022
Another adorable love story from this author.
The first book in this series is still my favorite, but I loved getting a deeper insight into Ella and Cash’s lives and love story.
I loved Cash and Ella together, and loved the relationship between Cash and Grace.
Only took a star off based off of a couple of grammatical errors.
* This book does contain mentions of the loss of loved ones.
The first book in this series is still my favorite, but I loved getting a deeper insight into Ella and Cash’s lives and love story.
I loved Cash and Ella together, and loved the relationship between Cash and Grace.
Only took a star off based off of a couple of grammatical errors.
* This book does contain mentions of the loss of loved ones.
September 10, 2022
Another great read! I laughed, swooned and cried! I was so happy with how the story went for Cash and Ella!
July 27, 2021
I would like to say a huge thank you to Melissa for very kindly forwarding me a copy of her book, for my Kindle, in return for an honest review.
This is the 2nd book from the Midnight In Dallas series.
Home Again was a beautiful story, full of romance and that hit me in the heart after reading it.
Ella’s life is a little bit in limbo and she is left feeling what is next and wondering if she is ready to fall in love again…
This book was very well written, realistic with down to earth characters, who I loved.
Get ready to be broken and then put back together again and now I cannot wait for more.
This is the 2nd book from the Midnight In Dallas series.
Home Again was a beautiful story, full of romance and that hit me in the heart after reading it.
Ella’s life is a little bit in limbo and she is left feeling what is next and wondering if she is ready to fall in love again…
This book was very well written, realistic with down to earth characters, who I loved.
Get ready to be broken and then put back together again and now I cannot wait for more.
July 30, 2021
. Very few books have made me feel seen and connected to the characters as Melissa did in Home again.
Home Again focuses on Ella and Cash who are struggling in different ways. I absolutely loved Ella’s personality and Cash’s supportive nature. While this story is a romance novel, it is so much more. The characters deal with grief, loss, and finding love again and all of the confusing emotions that come with that. The writing and pacing was perfect.
I know I’ve said this but Melissa’s ability to write characters and handle their emotional trauma is something that sets her apart. I will definitely be ordering her future books and have pre-ordered my signed copies.
Home Again focuses on Ella and Cash who are struggling in different ways. I absolutely loved Ella’s personality and Cash’s supportive nature. While this story is a romance novel, it is so much more. The characters deal with grief, loss, and finding love again and all of the confusing emotions that come with that. The writing and pacing was perfect.
I know I’ve said this but Melissa’s ability to write characters and handle their emotional trauma is something that sets her apart. I will definitely be ordering her future books and have pre-ordered my signed copies.
January 14, 2025
better than book 1! 5 stars! I can’t wait to keep reading the rest of the series & see what happens to the rest of the characters!
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