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Coastal Chronicles #3
Second to None
A stand alone second chance grumpy sunshine romance about Josie & Maddox by USA Today bestselling author K.A. Linde...
Maddox Nelson is the only boy I’ve ever loved.
And the only one to break my heart.
I thought I was over that long ago. After drowning the heartbreak in two failed marriages, I should want safe and easy, and Maddox is nothing but complicated.
Now that I’m back home in Savannah, I can’t deny the pull toward him. He’s the grumpy to my sunshine, the introvert to my extrovert, the uncompromising to my go with the flow. But years of friendship, love, and tangled lust binds us together in the city where it all began.
When heat flies between us, he makes it clear that we already had our chance. Both of us should move on.
Except I’m no longer okay with that idea.
I’ll prove to him that I come second to none.
Maddox Nelson is the only boy I’ve ever loved.
And the only one to break my heart.
I thought I was over that long ago. After drowning the heartbreak in two failed marriages, I should want safe and easy, and Maddox is nothing but complicated.
Now that I’m back home in Savannah, I can’t deny the pull toward him. He’s the grumpy to my sunshine, the introvert to my extrovert, the uncompromising to my go with the flow. But years of friendship, love, and tangled lust binds us together in the city where it all began.
When heat flies between us, he makes it clear that we already had our chance. Both of us should move on.
Except I’m no longer okay with that idea.
I’ll prove to him that I come second to none.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 30, 2022
66 people are currently reading
4777 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Linde
93 books11.2k followersK.A. Linde is the New York Times, USA Today, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of The Wren in the Holly Library. She is prolific in both romance and fantasy and loves the blend of the two.
She has a Masters degree in political science and bachelors in philosophy from the University of Georgia. In her previous life, she was a head campaign worker for a presidential campaign and the coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, traveling to far-off destinations, and dancing in her spare time.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, and son.
She has a Masters degree in political science and bachelors in philosophy from the University of Georgia. In her previous life, she was a head campaign worker for a presidential campaign and the coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, traveling to far-off destinations, and dancing in her spare time.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, and son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
July 28, 2022
4.5 stars
Second to None is a stunning second chance romance that is also best friend’s brother and grumpy sunshine. Talk about all the troupes I love! If you’ve read ‘Hold the Forevers’ or ‘At First Hate’, you’ve been ready for Maddox and Josie’s story like me. If not, no worries. This can be read as a stand-alone.
Josie and Maddox’s story started long ago. In high school, they both liked each other, but Maddox twin sister/Josie’s best friend complicated things. In college they finally thought they had it together but they were too young and not ready. Now, years have past, both have great careers but they’re missing love. Missing each other.
This love story is complicated, a little messy, angsty, but so so good! I loved Josie and Maddox together and even though it took a while for them to get it right, it was worth the wait. Their romance is a captivating second chance romance you don’t want to miss out on. I only hope we get an Ash story eventually… ;)
audio arc provided by author
Second to None is a stunning second chance romance that is also best friend’s brother and grumpy sunshine. Talk about all the troupes I love! If you’ve read ‘Hold the Forevers’ or ‘At First Hate’, you’ve been ready for Maddox and Josie’s story like me. If not, no worries. This can be read as a stand-alone.
Josie and Maddox’s story started long ago. In high school, they both liked each other, but Maddox twin sister/Josie’s best friend complicated things. In college they finally thought they had it together but they were too young and not ready. Now, years have past, both have great careers but they’re missing love. Missing each other.
This love story is complicated, a little messy, angsty, but so so good! I loved Josie and Maddox together and even though it took a while for them to get it right, it was worth the wait. Their romance is a captivating second chance romance you don’t want to miss out on. I only hope we get an Ash story eventually… ;)
audio arc provided by author
September 7, 2022
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Second to None, the third book in the Coastal Chronicles series by K.A Linde delivers a complex but endearing second chance romance, which will likely frustrate you while giving you hope and leave you believing in the power of love to conquer all.
Second to None tells the story of Jolie and Maddox, a couple made for each other, but insecurities and egos threatened to destroy it all. Every time they enter each other's orbit their attempts at maintaining a relationship ends on a messy note. Their head tells them to stay away from each other, but their hearts play a different tune. They try moving on but their hearts remain tied to each other. Can their love survive another chance or will it crash and burn this final time?
Oh Man! Jodie and Maddox relationship is designed to give readers whiplash. For a brief moment, I wondered if it would be best if they went their separate ways. At one point they are together, the next they both say and do stupid things and then it's over. Despite the hurt resulting from the break up, each time they come in contact with each other the pain and heartbreak melts away for a brief moment and they can't get enough of each other. The strength of their love prevented any hopes of moving on. Now they have another chance to make it work.
The story moved between the past and the present. It gave readers a view of the mistakes made in the past and the measures taken to correct them in the present. Josie and Maddox were the complete opposites and Maddox believed despite their love for each other finding a common ground would be impossible. Little did he realise how much they had in common. The growth Jolie and Maddox demonstrated throughout the story gave me hope. It took them awhile to get it right, but when they did it was so worth the experience.
I loved both characters, although a few times Josie's actions angered me. Her childhood experiences aided her poor choices. Always running scared when things became to tough to handle, and too immature to acknowledge the truth staring her in the face. Despite their many mistakes they were my favourite couple of the series. Their relationship didn't possess the high level of angst that couples from the previous book possessed.
The emotions which flowed throughout the story pulls on the reader's heartstrings. I loved the fact that josie got the chance to heal the relationship with her mother. The revelations with respect to their relationship was eye opening and left the reader wondering about a particular incident in the life of Josie's mom. Josie and Maddox wasn't the only the couple to get a second chance. It would be awesome if that story could be further developed.
To conclude, Second to None delivered a tale of hope, love, healing and second chances. Maddox and Josie is one of those couples you will want to cheer on.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Second to None, the third book in the Coastal Chronicles series by K.A Linde delivers a complex but endearing second chance romance, which will likely frustrate you while giving you hope and leave you believing in the power of love to conquer all.
Second to None tells the story of Jolie and Maddox, a couple made for each other, but insecurities and egos threatened to destroy it all. Every time they enter each other's orbit their attempts at maintaining a relationship ends on a messy note. Their head tells them to stay away from each other, but their hearts play a different tune. They try moving on but their hearts remain tied to each other. Can their love survive another chance or will it crash and burn this final time?
Oh Man! Jodie and Maddox relationship is designed to give readers whiplash. For a brief moment, I wondered if it would be best if they went their separate ways. At one point they are together, the next they both say and do stupid things and then it's over. Despite the hurt resulting from the break up, each time they come in contact with each other the pain and heartbreak melts away for a brief moment and they can't get enough of each other. The strength of their love prevented any hopes of moving on. Now they have another chance to make it work.
The story moved between the past and the present. It gave readers a view of the mistakes made in the past and the measures taken to correct them in the present. Josie and Maddox were the complete opposites and Maddox believed despite their love for each other finding a common ground would be impossible. Little did he realise how much they had in common. The growth Jolie and Maddox demonstrated throughout the story gave me hope. It took them awhile to get it right, but when they did it was so worth the experience.
I loved both characters, although a few times Josie's actions angered me. Her childhood experiences aided her poor choices. Always running scared when things became to tough to handle, and too immature to acknowledge the truth staring her in the face. Despite their many mistakes they were my favourite couple of the series. Their relationship didn't possess the high level of angst that couples from the previous book possessed.
The emotions which flowed throughout the story pulls on the reader's heartstrings. I loved the fact that josie got the chance to heal the relationship with her mother. The revelations with respect to their relationship was eye opening and left the reader wondering about a particular incident in the life of Josie's mom. Josie and Maddox wasn't the only the couple to get a second chance. It would be awesome if that story could be further developed.
To conclude, Second to None delivered a tale of hope, love, healing and second chances. Maddox and Josie is one of those couples you will want to cheer on.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
August 30, 2022
Josie and Maddox.. what can I say! Those two are seriously amazing characters. Second chance, enemies to lovers are some of my fave tropes. Throw into it a small town and a great friendsgroup and I was hooked from the very first page!
I loved how we got go see into their past and their way to the relationship that they now have. Josie is a really strong character in my opinion, even if she makes stupid decisions throughout their history. Maddox and Josie just fit together very well.
I haven‘t read the first two books in this series but I will read them now too!
5⭐️
I loved how we got go see into their past and their way to the relationship that they now have. Josie is a really strong character in my opinion, even if she makes stupid decisions throughout their history. Maddox and Josie just fit together very well.
I haven‘t read the first two books in this series but I will read them now too!
5⭐️
September 3, 2022
4.5 stars
Second To None was sooo GOOD… I didn’t want to put it down!
There is something about the way that K.A.Linde writes that’s incredibly engaging.
This story will have you championing the pair all the way…Josie and Maddox deserve a second chance.
Second To None was sooo GOOD… I didn’t want to put it down!
There is something about the way that K.A.Linde writes that’s incredibly engaging.
This story will have you championing the pair all the way…Josie and Maddox deserve a second chance.
August 30, 2022
No matter what your favorite trope is, SECOND TO NONE delivers on each and every one. My favorite is grumpy / sunshine and small town.
✔️ grumpy/sunshine
✔️ second chance
✔️ best friend’s brother
✔️ hollywood starlet
✔️ introvert genius hero
✔️ small town romance
✔️ grumpy/sunshine
✔️ second chance
✔️ best friend’s brother
✔️ hollywood starlet
✔️ introvert genius hero
✔️ small town romance
August 30, 2022
“He wanted to be around me as much as I wanted to be around him. No matter the time or distance between us, the want was always there. It had always been there. And being around him again in this city made me want him more than ever.”
“Kissing Maddox was effortless, like breathing.”
“With those three words, I belonged to him. I always had, but we’d sealed it. There was nowhere else I wanted to be.”
OMG! This book had me twisted up in the most delicious knots. Filled with angst, longing, and a lifetime of will they/won’t they get their stuff figured out, this book not only delivered but exceeded my expectations.
Maddox and Josie’s story is messy, frustrating, and oh, so complicated. Their story begins in high school, where the attraction has always been there, but a promise between friends keeps them apart. As time goes on, the timing never seemed to be right between them. There was always something or someone, or even themselves sabotaging their efforts.
Josie is so complex, driven, and passionate about the things/people she loves. She doesn’t always make the best decisions, but her heart is in the right place and I loved seeing her character grow and mature. At first glance, Maddox seems to be her complete opposite with his grumpy, broody attitude, but there is more to this talented artist than meets the eye. He might be a complete introvert, but he is exactly what Josie needs. Together these two had phenomenal chemistry. I loved all the will they/won’t they moments. The poor timing and ups and downs, and all the obstacles in between made for some delicious angst that just tugged at my heartstrings and left me all twisted, in the best possible way.
Second to None is the perfect grumpy sunshine, second chance romance. The characters are complicated and real. You can’t help but lose yourself in the story and the characters from the moment you pick this book up. I personally couldn’t put this book down once I started and boy did this book take me on the best journey ever. This book is angst. This book is real romance. I loved every single moment and never wanted it to end.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
“Kissing Maddox was effortless, like breathing.”
“With those three words, I belonged to him. I always had, but we’d sealed it. There was nowhere else I wanted to be.”
OMG! This book had me twisted up in the most delicious knots. Filled with angst, longing, and a lifetime of will they/won’t they get their stuff figured out, this book not only delivered but exceeded my expectations.
Maddox and Josie’s story is messy, frustrating, and oh, so complicated. Their story begins in high school, where the attraction has always been there, but a promise between friends keeps them apart. As time goes on, the timing never seemed to be right between them. There was always something or someone, or even themselves sabotaging their efforts.
Josie is so complex, driven, and passionate about the things/people she loves. She doesn’t always make the best decisions, but her heart is in the right place and I loved seeing her character grow and mature. At first glance, Maddox seems to be her complete opposite with his grumpy, broody attitude, but there is more to this talented artist than meets the eye. He might be a complete introvert, but he is exactly what Josie needs. Together these two had phenomenal chemistry. I loved all the will they/won’t they moments. The poor timing and ups and downs, and all the obstacles in between made for some delicious angst that just tugged at my heartstrings and left me all twisted, in the best possible way.
Second to None is the perfect grumpy sunshine, second chance romance. The characters are complicated and real. You can’t help but lose yourself in the story and the characters from the moment you pick this book up. I personally couldn’t put this book down once I started and boy did this book take me on the best journey ever. This book is angst. This book is real romance. I loved every single moment and never wanted it to end.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
August 30, 2022
Be still, my beating heart! Second to None by K.A. Linde was an emotional, angsty second chance romance that squeezed my heartstrings in all the best ways! I've been anticipating Maddox and Josie's love story, and Linde sure did deliver. Maddox and Josie made me feel a whirlwind of emotions and gave me all the feel-good head-to-toe chills! This book is told from Josie's point of view flipping from the present day to the past. Josie is such a complex outgoing character experiencing heartache, passion, and love. Her dedication to her friends, commitment to her career, and finally finding the right time to love and BE with Maddox was everything I wanted and more. Maddox, an introverted genius has loved Josie ever since they were kids, and never liked being in the spotlight. I loved seeing his confidence grow as he and Josie discovered that two complete opposites could truly find their own happiness together.
Overall, I loved this book! If you are a fan of a small town second chance romance with a hot hunky visual effects hero, a brave, fierce actress-inspired director, flashbacks that explain the past, film school, Savannah Georgia, trips to Tybee Island, Casablanca, loyal friends, a misunderstood mother, a journal from the past, exes, all the angst, explosive steamy times, movie sets, and a HEA that proves your first love was always meant to be, then you will love Maddox and Josie's story. I'm looking forward to Ash and Amelia's romance next!
Overall, I loved this book! If you are a fan of a small town second chance romance with a hot hunky visual effects hero, a brave, fierce actress-inspired director, flashbacks that explain the past, film school, Savannah Georgia, trips to Tybee Island, Casablanca, loyal friends, a misunderstood mother, a journal from the past, exes, all the angst, explosive steamy times, movie sets, and a HEA that proves your first love was always meant to be, then you will love Maddox and Josie's story. I'm looking forward to Ash and Amelia's romance next!
August 31, 2022
5 FEELS STARS!! Oh my....this one had all the feels and had me turning pages as fast as I could. Josie and Maddox touched every part of my heart. I can't wait for the next book.
November 13, 2022
Second to None is an angsty, second chance romance. K.A. Linde shows the long, twisty path these childhood friends take to finally get their HEA.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Flirty Josie always liked her friend Marley’s twin brother Maddox. But as teens, Marley asks her not to act on her feelings, since Maddox tends to take relationships a lot more seriously than her bestie. They end up getting together while in college, but extrovert Josie is too much at that point for creative introvert Maddox. But, now they are working together on a feature film; is this the time they will finally get it right?
The story moves back and forth between present and past, so the reader can see all the parts of their relationship. Josie’s complicated relationships with her parents also provide the backdrop for her relationship with Maddox.
This book is part of a series, which I haven’t read, and it worked as a standalone for me. But, there were plenty of secondary characters who clearly have their own books out there. And, if I’d seen Josie and Maddox in previous books, I might have been more invested in their relationship.
This particular story didn’t hit me the right way because there was too much angst and not enough plot and conflict to back it up. I lost track of just how many times this couple breaks up and get back together over the course of the book. I mean, maybe they just shouldn’t be together? I wasn’t
convinced. They definitely have steamy chemistry, but they each seem to get in their own way on a regular basis.
If you are looking for a quick, steamy second chance romance, Second to None is a good option. Josie and Maddox have plenty of chemistry, and it’s satisfying to see how their complicated relationship develops over the years.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Flirty Josie always liked her friend Marley’s twin brother Maddox. But as teens, Marley asks her not to act on her feelings, since Maddox tends to take relationships a lot more seriously than her bestie. They end up getting together while in college, but extrovert Josie is too much at that point for creative introvert Maddox. But, now they are working together on a feature film; is this the time they will finally get it right?
The story moves back and forth between present and past, so the reader can see all the parts of their relationship. Josie’s complicated relationships with her parents also provide the backdrop for her relationship with Maddox.
This book is part of a series, which I haven’t read, and it worked as a standalone for me. But, there were plenty of secondary characters who clearly have their own books out there. And, if I’d seen Josie and Maddox in previous books, I might have been more invested in their relationship.
This particular story didn’t hit me the right way because there was too much angst and not enough plot and conflict to back it up. I lost track of just how many times this couple breaks up and get back together over the course of the book. I mean, maybe they just shouldn’t be together? I wasn’t
convinced. They definitely have steamy chemistry, but they each seem to get in their own way on a regular basis.
If you are looking for a quick, steamy second chance romance, Second to None is a good option. Josie and Maddox have plenty of chemistry, and it’s satisfying to see how their complicated relationship develops over the years.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 1, 2022
4.5 stars.
I'm starting to realize that I love the whole second chance grumpy sunshine books. Never really read them before but I'm glad I gave them a chance.
This is your classic second chance angst filled novel written by Kyla and I enjoyed it a whole lot! I love Josie and Maddox and their story was amazing and filled with so many emotions.
Highly recommended book!
I'm starting to realize that I love the whole second chance grumpy sunshine books. Never really read them before but I'm glad I gave them a chance.
This is your classic second chance angst filled novel written by Kyla and I enjoyed it a whole lot! I love Josie and Maddox and their story was amazing and filled with so many emotions.
Highly recommended book!
August 21, 2022
“No matter the time or distance between us, the want was always there. It had always been there.”
Second To None is an angsty and emotional second chance romance in the Coastal Chronicles series. The story showcases the passionate and tumultuous relationship of Maddox and Josie. These two completely opposite personalities know that their feelings for one another are real but struggle to reconcile their different lifestyles.
“No matter what our history said, I would prove to him that I was second to none.”
The story is told from Josie’s POV and seamlessly alternates between the present and the past. Josie has returned to Savannah for a job and finds that she will be working with Maddox, the one who got away. Their spark is still simmering right beneath the surface, but are they willing to risk taking another chance at love after failing to make it work in the past?
“When it came to Maddox Nelson, I could only ever hope that we’d jump one more time.”
I both liked Josie and didn’t like her. Her choices at times made me angry and I wanted her to realize what she was risking. She had a turbulent childhood so she wanted love and attention more than anything in the world, but she also had a tendency to run when things became difficult and to become blinded by what was right in front of her.
“Maddox was willing to fight for me. He’d loved me when I was nobody and when I was a television star and when I was once again a nobody. He loved me just how I was.”
Maddox had a quiet strength. He had always been in love with Josie, but he didn’t think he could give her what she wanted. He had been hurt by her so his heart was guarded, but that didn’t stop him from always standing up for her and fighting for her.
“Kissing him felt more right than anything else I’d ever done in my life. I’d forgotten that anything could feel like this. That Maddox could make everything disappear."
I really loved watching Maddox and Josie’s relationship evolve throughout the years. You could see their growth and determination to grow from their past mistakes. Their banter and friendship was priceless plus they had a combustible chemistry. Maddox and Josie are opposites, but their souls connected and belonged together. Their connection made them stronger when they were together and you couldn’t help but root for them.
"This was who we were, and we might be different, but that was our strength, not our weakness.”
Full of so much emotion, friendship, family, heat and love, Second To None was angsty deliciousness. I love nothing more than a story that makes me feel and this story made me feel everything. Now I cannot wait for Ash and Amelia’s story!!!
Second To None is an angsty and emotional second chance romance in the Coastal Chronicles series. The story showcases the passionate and tumultuous relationship of Maddox and Josie. These two completely opposite personalities know that their feelings for one another are real but struggle to reconcile their different lifestyles.
“No matter what our history said, I would prove to him that I was second to none.”
The story is told from Josie’s POV and seamlessly alternates between the present and the past. Josie has returned to Savannah for a job and finds that she will be working with Maddox, the one who got away. Their spark is still simmering right beneath the surface, but are they willing to risk taking another chance at love after failing to make it work in the past?
“When it came to Maddox Nelson, I could only ever hope that we’d jump one more time.”
I both liked Josie and didn’t like her. Her choices at times made me angry and I wanted her to realize what she was risking. She had a turbulent childhood so she wanted love and attention more than anything in the world, but she also had a tendency to run when things became difficult and to become blinded by what was right in front of her.
“Maddox was willing to fight for me. He’d loved me when I was nobody and when I was a television star and when I was once again a nobody. He loved me just how I was.”
Maddox had a quiet strength. He had always been in love with Josie, but he didn’t think he could give her what she wanted. He had been hurt by her so his heart was guarded, but that didn’t stop him from always standing up for her and fighting for her.
“Kissing him felt more right than anything else I’d ever done in my life. I’d forgotten that anything could feel like this. That Maddox could make everything disappear."
I really loved watching Maddox and Josie’s relationship evolve throughout the years. You could see their growth and determination to grow from their past mistakes. Their banter and friendship was priceless plus they had a combustible chemistry. Maddox and Josie are opposites, but their souls connected and belonged together. Their connection made them stronger when they were together and you couldn’t help but root for them.
"This was who we were, and we might be different, but that was our strength, not our weakness.”
Full of so much emotion, friendship, family, heat and love, Second To None was angsty deliciousness. I love nothing more than a story that makes me feel and this story made me feel everything. Now I cannot wait for Ash and Amelia’s story!!!
August 28, 2022
I received a free copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
SECOND TO NONE is the third installment in the Coastal Chronicles series. While it would be easy enough to read as a standalone without too much confusion, I caution against it. As a continuation, the setting, the characters, and their connections are built across the series, and the reader would miss out on the emotional impact of what draws the entire cast together.
In another lifetime, Josie and Maddox began their journey back in high school. The delicious angst for a teenage girl who had a crush on her best friend's brother/the brooding angst of the teenage boy having a crush on his sister's best friend. Josie is a flighty flirt, while Maddox takes everything seriously. While they would balance each other's personalities, it's best left unexplored as to not harm the ties that bind.
While opposite personalities attract, the college years were for exploration. Josie was not ready to face the intensity she shared with Maddox.
Told in the past and in the present in Josie's voice, she tries to find her footing along the way, making mistakes that help her grow into a strong, successful woman. While I may not have liked all of Josie's choices, they made her feel real to me, flaws and regrets, and stumbling learning steps in the journey.
Two grown, lonely adults at the pinnacles of their careers, regretting what could have been/what should have been, while celebrating their similar successes but missing out on celebrating them together.
Josie returns to Savanna, only to discover she will be working in close proximity with Maddox... let the angst begin.
KA Linde is my go-to for angst, and SECOND TO NONE delivers. Josie and Maddox's relationship is entertainingly messy, filled with history and near-misses, exactly how a complicated second-chance romance should be.
Highly recommend to fans of the author, contemporary romance, and those looking for a hefty dose of angsty deliciousness.
SECOND TO NONE is the third installment in the Coastal Chronicles series. While it would be easy enough to read as a standalone without too much confusion, I caution against it. As a continuation, the setting, the characters, and their connections are built across the series, and the reader would miss out on the emotional impact of what draws the entire cast together.
In another lifetime, Josie and Maddox began their journey back in high school. The delicious angst for a teenage girl who had a crush on her best friend's brother/the brooding angst of the teenage boy having a crush on his sister's best friend. Josie is a flighty flirt, while Maddox takes everything seriously. While they would balance each other's personalities, it's best left unexplored as to not harm the ties that bind.
While opposite personalities attract, the college years were for exploration. Josie was not ready to face the intensity she shared with Maddox.
Told in the past and in the present in Josie's voice, she tries to find her footing along the way, making mistakes that help her grow into a strong, successful woman. While I may not have liked all of Josie's choices, they made her feel real to me, flaws and regrets, and stumbling learning steps in the journey.
Two grown, lonely adults at the pinnacles of their careers, regretting what could have been/what should have been, while celebrating their similar successes but missing out on celebrating them together.
Josie returns to Savanna, only to discover she will be working in close proximity with Maddox... let the angst begin.
KA Linde is my go-to for angst, and SECOND TO NONE delivers. Josie and Maddox's relationship is entertainingly messy, filled with history and near-misses, exactly how a complicated second-chance romance should be.
Highly recommend to fans of the author, contemporary romance, and those looking for a hefty dose of angsty deliciousness.
August 28, 2022
{𝟹.𝟻/𝟻}
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
• ʙᴇsᴛ ғʀɪᴇɴᴅs ʙʀᴏᴛʜᴇʀ
• ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴀsᴛ & ᴘʀᴇsᴇɴᴛ
• ғᴀsᴛ ᴘᴀᴄᴇᴅ
• ғᴏʀᴄᴇᴅ ᴘʀᴏxɪᴍɪᴛʏ
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
• {ᴏᴠᴇʀᴀʟʟ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛs} This book had me on my toes the whole time, I couldn’t put it down because I just had to know what was going to happen next. This book also goes back to the past then the present, I think I really enjoyed this just because I could see how their relationship developed and how it started. I haven’t read the first couple of books in the series but I definitely will be, I especially can’t wait for Ash and Amelia’s I think the whole time while reading I was really intrigued with them so I can’t to read their story and see if Ash has a come back/ character development!!! The plot was very interesting, after trying their best to put their feelings behind they both are suddenly working together, will their feelings show or will they stay hidden ?
• {ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀs} In this book we are introduced to Josie & Maddox. If I’m being 100% honest Maddox carried this book, his feelings were just so strong and emotional like he would genuinely do anything to be with Josie and it’s really admirable. Josie I have a love hate relationship, I think she brought this book down with the fact that she wasn’t honest with herself and her feelings and just didn’t let herself love and be loved, but I really liked the fact that she finally told herself to stop and go after what she wanted, Maddox. Definitely gave us a slow burn but I really think they were perfect for each other, they kept coming back to each other and they just couldn’t help it.
• {sᴘɪᴄᴇ} This book had a great amount of spice, no complaints as always :3
𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐒 𝐀𝐔𝐆𝐔𝐒𝐓 30
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬
• ʙᴇsᴛ ғʀɪᴇɴᴅs ʙʀᴏᴛʜᴇʀ
• ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴀsᴛ & ᴘʀᴇsᴇɴᴛ
• ғᴀsᴛ ᴘᴀᴄᴇᴅ
• ғᴏʀᴄᴇᴅ ᴘʀᴏxɪᴍɪᴛʏ
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
• {ᴏᴠᴇʀᴀʟʟ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛs} This book had me on my toes the whole time, I couldn’t put it down because I just had to know what was going to happen next. This book also goes back to the past then the present, I think I really enjoyed this just because I could see how their relationship developed and how it started. I haven’t read the first couple of books in the series but I definitely will be, I especially can’t wait for Ash and Amelia’s I think the whole time while reading I was really intrigued with them so I can’t to read their story and see if Ash has a come back/ character development!!! The plot was very interesting, after trying their best to put their feelings behind they both are suddenly working together, will their feelings show or will they stay hidden ?
• {ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀs} In this book we are introduced to Josie & Maddox. If I’m being 100% honest Maddox carried this book, his feelings were just so strong and emotional like he would genuinely do anything to be with Josie and it’s really admirable. Josie I have a love hate relationship, I think she brought this book down with the fact that she wasn’t honest with herself and her feelings and just didn’t let herself love and be loved, but I really liked the fact that she finally told herself to stop and go after what she wanted, Maddox. Definitely gave us a slow burn but I really think they were perfect for each other, they kept coming back to each other and they just couldn’t help it.
• {sᴘɪᴄᴇ} This book had a great amount of spice, no complaints as always :3
𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄𝐒 𝐀𝐔𝐆𝐔𝐒𝐓 30
August 27, 2022
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is a standalone but fits with two other books in the Coastal Chronicles series. They give us Lila, Cole and Ash's story in the first book, and Maddox's twin Marley finally gets her High School love Derek in the second. Now Maddox and Josie get to deal with their unresolved feelings for each other.
Josie has been a household name thanks to her acting in a big tv series - but her childhood friend has bigger success with a couple of Oscars for his animation and CGI work. Little does she expect to come home for a tv show reunion and find that Maddox is also involved in production. There is a lot of unexplored love and lust between them, and whilst they have been kept up to date with information by their common friends and family, there is much which is unknown. However both of them still feel that deep love and friendship which they wish they could recapture.
I loved seeing how they dealt with the barriers put in front of them, and how they had grown up and learned how best to try and secure the future that they both desire. A really engaging and enjoyable period of escapism!
This is a standalone but fits with two other books in the Coastal Chronicles series. They give us Lila, Cole and Ash's story in the first book, and Maddox's twin Marley finally gets her High School love Derek in the second. Now Maddox and Josie get to deal with their unresolved feelings for each other.
Josie has been a household name thanks to her acting in a big tv series - but her childhood friend has bigger success with a couple of Oscars for his animation and CGI work. Little does she expect to come home for a tv show reunion and find that Maddox is also involved in production. There is a lot of unexplored love and lust between them, and whilst they have been kept up to date with information by their common friends and family, there is much which is unknown. However both of them still feel that deep love and friendship which they wish they could recapture.
I loved seeing how they dealt with the barriers put in front of them, and how they had grown up and learned how best to try and secure the future that they both desire. A really engaging and enjoyable period of escapism!
August 30, 2022
They were each other's first loves and only loves. But their complicated relationship kept them apart for many years. Now Josie and Maddox are working on the same movie in their hometown where it all began. Can they get past their differences and trust each other again?
"Why can't I get enough of you, Josie? Why does it feel like torture every time we do this?"
Josie and Maddox's story alternates between the past and the present. The more you learn about their turbulent history of epic crash and burn breakups, it's clear why the two haven't talked in years. Their love for each other and yearning to be back together also shines through. I found myself immersed in their story. I read it in less than a day. Josie and Maddox are why I love second-chance romances!
The love, angst, and messiness of Josie and Maddox and the support of an incredible group of friends and family made Second to None such a great story to read.
BTW, I may have screamed out loud when I saw that Ash and Amelia are next in this series!!!
"Why can't I get enough of you, Josie? Why does it feel like torture every time we do this?"
Josie and Maddox's story alternates between the past and the present. The more you learn about their turbulent history of epic crash and burn breakups, it's clear why the two haven't talked in years. Their love for each other and yearning to be back together also shines through. I found myself immersed in their story. I read it in less than a day. Josie and Maddox are why I love second-chance romances!
The love, angst, and messiness of Josie and Maddox and the support of an incredible group of friends and family made Second to None such a great story to read.
BTW, I may have screamed out loud when I saw that Ash and Amelia are next in this series!!!
August 30, 2022
After promising her best friend, Marley, that she stays away from her twin brother, Josie tries to. She tries really hard.
Josie and Maddox grow up together. He's her best friend's brother (trope). They've always had off the chart chemistry, but they stop resisting when they get to college.
Their story is so angst filled with many emotional moments. I felt the characters were realistic and authentic. My heart hurts for them several times during this book, as their relationship is turbulent. This is where you'll see the most differences in the two characters.
Josie is free-spirited, outgoing and a flirt. Maddox is broody, grumpy and an introvert. These two couldn't be more opposite if they tried. I loved that the story stayed true to the characters. They stayed true to who they were despite being so different.
"No matter what our history said, I would prove to him that I was second to none." K.A. Linde
There are a lot of flashbacks to the past, as it is imperative for you to understand their history. You'll learn that Josie just wants love and to be seen as a person. Maddox, grumpy and a genius at his job will win you over. He's always been in love with Josie and it's taken years to get to where they are.
Just because you meet and fall in love young, doesn't mean that it's the right timing for the characters. Just remember, love is patient, love is kind.
Second to None is full of angsty moments, strong side characters and an emotional second chance, more like a third chance plot. This book will give you all the feels. Real love is worth the good fight. Highly recommend.
Written in 1st POV
Story ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Angst ⭐⭐⭐
Josie and Maddox grow up together. He's her best friend's brother (trope). They've always had off the chart chemistry, but they stop resisting when they get to college.
Their story is so angst filled with many emotional moments. I felt the characters were realistic and authentic. My heart hurts for them several times during this book, as their relationship is turbulent. This is where you'll see the most differences in the two characters.
Josie is free-spirited, outgoing and a flirt. Maddox is broody, grumpy and an introvert. These two couldn't be more opposite if they tried. I loved that the story stayed true to the characters. They stayed true to who they were despite being so different.
"No matter what our history said, I would prove to him that I was second to none." K.A. Linde
There are a lot of flashbacks to the past, as it is imperative for you to understand their history. You'll learn that Josie just wants love and to be seen as a person. Maddox, grumpy and a genius at his job will win you over. He's always been in love with Josie and it's taken years to get to where they are.
Just because you meet and fall in love young, doesn't mean that it's the right timing for the characters. Just remember, love is patient, love is kind.
Second to None is full of angsty moments, strong side characters and an emotional second chance, more like a third chance plot. This book will give you all the feels. Real love is worth the good fight. Highly recommend.
Written in 1st POV
Story ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Angst ⭐⭐⭐
August 28, 2022
There was so much to this book I loved! First of all, I couldn’t want to read about Josie and Maddox since reading the previous book in the series! Second, there is more to this story than just Josie and Maddox. We get another story intertwined with Josie and Maddox’s love story as Josie uncovers what truly happened with her parents. Josie and Maddox are true opposites…where Josie is outgoing and the life of the party, Maddox is quiet and would prefer a night in than going out to party. And in their youngest years they don’t know how to strike a balance between their interests to make it work. But they have so much sexual tension that just oozes off the page every time they reunite over the years! I was practically fanning myself a few times because of it! And in the end, they grow up and figure it all out and I got some major goosebumps! This is such a great story that you won’t want to miss!
~Alexis💜
~Alexis💜
August 26, 2022
Linde makes it easy to lose yourself in the emotion of love. From enemies to lovers, heartache to heartwarming or hopeful to hopeless, it's the feelings that call out to this reader's heart. Second to None is the sweetest type of heartbreak. Maddox and Josie push the boundaries of love and hate with a fierceness that borders on obsession. An enchanting temptation that loses it's heart while finding it's smile.
August 31, 2022
I'm finding that I'm a big fan of second chance romance lately. And Second to None also combined that with my love for the grumpy/sunshine trope. I gave this book 5/5 stars
Josie and Maddox have a great connection but definitely fit right person, wrong time. Throughout the book years pass and both characters go through a lot of personal and professional growth. I enjoyed reading their story.
Thank you @authorkalinde and @wildfiremarketingsolutions for the early ebook!
Josie and Maddox have a great connection but definitely fit right person, wrong time. Throughout the book years pass and both characters go through a lot of personal and professional growth. I enjoyed reading their story.
Thank you @authorkalinde and @wildfiremarketingsolutions for the early ebook!
August 31, 2022
When they work together will they make it through without getting burned? Josie and Maddox have had a rocky few years in figuring out what they really want. Will this chance be the one that lasts?
I truly enjoyed getting to know Josie (Josephine) and Maddox. She's the extrovert television star to his introvert visual effects brilliance. The chemistry between them burns so hot! Seeing into their past and how it shaped their right now kept me hooked. I wanted to know why their present relationship status was where it was, whether it be friends or more.
While reading I wanted to go back and see what/if anything was said about their relationship(s) by Lila and Marley. I absolutely love these friends from Savannah!
I truly enjoyed getting to know Josie (Josephine) and Maddox. She's the extrovert television star to his introvert visual effects brilliance. The chemistry between them burns so hot! Seeing into their past and how it shaped their right now kept me hooked. I wanted to know why their present relationship status was where it was, whether it be friends or more.
While reading I wanted to go back and see what/if anything was said about their relationship(s) by Lila and Marley. I absolutely love these friends from Savannah!
May 18, 2023
Josie is the epitome of a beautiful but damaged girl. Her mom didn’t want her, her dad was self absorbed and she hid the feelings of insecurity behind a wall of bravado. She’s the beautiful girl always searching for love.
I’ve watch Maddox and Josie dance this dance of misunderstandings, hurt feelings, words that never should have been spoken and insane desire, for what felt like forever. Thank goodness for second, third and forth chances!
This love story was really overshadowed by the quiet mystery and what an ending! Let me say that word again…. ENDING!
I’ve watch Maddox and Josie dance this dance of misunderstandings, hurt feelings, words that never should have been spoken and insane desire, for what felt like forever. Thank goodness for second, third and forth chances!
This love story was really overshadowed by the quiet mystery and what an ending! Let me say that word again…. ENDING!
September 2, 2022
Let's just say, I absolutely loved Maddox. He's amazing. I think he's the highlight of the story. Don't get me wrong, I loved both him and Josie together. But I did find Josie to be frustrating at times. It took her a while to realise her real feelings and make a go of them. Still, I couldn't stop reading because I was way too curious to know what was going to happen next.
January 4, 2023
I hated this despite even the cute moments in the past. The h is the worst. She didn’t come off as realistic…She was self centered, ridiculous and disgusting.
Here she is claiming to be inlove with the H yet she just hurt him left and right with stupid disagreements, went on to have boyfriends, 2 marriages all while still claiming to love Maddox all the time.
She wouldn’t let him move on and just kept trying to be in his life which was very selfish. It was such a toxic relationship I wanted Maddox to just fully commit to another person and forget about her. He tried but Josie was just always there thinking he should be ok with her still in his life.
The romance was far fetch and basically non existent.
Other parts of the book was irrelevant to me as it was just repetition about side characters and their own version of toxicity and mumbo jumbo about their friendship.
The bit about the mom was ok still unrealistic and funny how her daughter followed in her footsteps in someway.
Here she is claiming to be inlove with the H yet she just hurt him left and right with stupid disagreements, went on to have boyfriends, 2 marriages all while still claiming to love Maddox all the time.
She wouldn’t let him move on and just kept trying to be in his life which was very selfish. It was such a toxic relationship I wanted Maddox to just fully commit to another person and forget about her. He tried but Josie was just always there thinking he should be ok with her still in his life.
The romance was far fetch and basically non existent.
Other parts of the book was irrelevant to me as it was just repetition about side characters and their own version of toxicity and mumbo jumbo about their friendship.
The bit about the mom was ok still unrealistic and funny how her daughter followed in her footsteps in someway.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2022
Check out our full post for SECOND TO NONE on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is a standalone but fits with two other books in the Coastal Chronicles series. They give us Lila, Cole, and Ash's story in the first book, and Maddox's twin, Marley, finally gets her high school love Derek in the second. Now Maddox and Josie get to deal with their unresolved feelings for each other.
Josie has been a household name thanks to her acting in a big TV series, but her childhood friend has bigger success with a couple of Oscars for his animation and CGI work. Little does she expect to come home for a TV show reunion and find that Maddox is also involved in production. There is a lot of unexplored love and lust between them, and whilst they have been kept up to date with information by their common friends and family, there is much which is unknown. However, both of them still feel that deep love and friendship which they wish they could recapture.
I loved seeing how they dealt with the barriers put in front of them, and how they had grown up and learned how best to try and secure the future that they both desire. A really engaging and enjoyable period of escapism!
Erica – ☆☆☆☆
SECOND TO NONE is the third installment in the Coastal Chronicles series. While it would be easy enough to read as a standalone without too much confusion, I caution against it. As a continuation, the setting, the characters, and their connections are built across the series, and the reader would miss out on the emotional impact of what draws the entire cast together.
In another lifetime, Josie and Maddox began their journey back in high school. The delicious angst for a teenage girl who had a crush on her best friend's brother and the brooding angst of the teenage boy having a crush on his sister's best friend. Josie is a flighty flirt, while Maddox takes everything seriously. While they would balance each other's personalities, it's best left unexplored as to not harm the ties that bind.
While opposite personalities attract, the college years were for exploration. Josie was not ready to face the intensity she shared with Maddox.
Told in the past and in the present in Josie's voice, she tries to find her footing along the way, making mistakes that help her grow into a strong, successful woman. While I may not have liked all of Josie's choices, they made her feel real to me, flaws and regrets, and stumbling learning steps in the journey.
Two grown, lonely adults at the pinnacles of their careers, regretting what could have been/what should have been, while celebrating their similar successes but missing out on celebrating them together.
Josie returns to Savanna, only to discover she will be working in close proximity with Maddox... let the angst begin.
K.A. Linde is my go-to for angst, and SECOND TO NONE delivers. Josie and Maddox's relationship is entertainingly messy, filled with history and near-misses, exactly how a complicated second-chance romance should be.
Highly recommend to fans of the author, contemporary romance, and those looking for a hefty dose of angsty deliciousness.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
September 3, 2022
SECOND TO NONE is the third instalment in KA Linde’s contemporary, adult COASTAL CHRONICLES erotic, romance series. This is actress Josephine ‘Josie’ Reynolds, and designer Maddox Nelson’s story line. SECOND TO NONE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
Told from first person perspective (Josie) using present day and memories from the past, cover several years in the life of our heroine, SECOND TO NONE follows the acrimonious and heart breaking relationship between Josie and Maddox. Josie is best friends with Maddox’s twin sister Marley but Marley had made Josie promise never to date her brother. The attraction between Maddox and Josie was palpable, and throughout the years Josie and Maddox would get together, break up, and eventually destroy one another’s hearts. Josie had always wanted to be a movie director but her first attempt was a disaster, and an offer to audition for a television show, would make our heroine a star. Maddox, jealous of Josie’s direction in life, a direction that no longer included our story line hero, went on to become an academy award winning set designer something of which Josie was proud. Fast forward to present day wherein Josie has been called back to Savannah Georgia, in an effort to film a movie finalizing the television show that was such a success but our heroine never expected to come face to face with her soulmate, the man who destroyed her heart years before. Enter Maddox Nelson. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Maddox and Josie, as our couple must come to terms with the past, paving way for a possible future for our story line couple.
Meanwhile, Josie has been estranged from her mother since she was twelve years old. Having lived with her father, a struggling artist, Josie never understood why her mother had abandoned our heroine for what appeared to be bigger and better things but her mother’s journal would reveal the truth, a truth that would bring Josie closer to her family, and to the success she once had.
The relationship between Josie and Maddox is an emotional roller coaster as our couple are constantly pushing one another away. Maddox and Josie have never stopped loving one another but they were often in different places at different times, and Maddox struggled with Josie’s success in the face of his own. Their rekindling relationship, brought together by forced proximity in the world of movie making, finds Josie looking back, wondering where everything went wrong. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters many of whom we have met throughout the series. We are introduced to Josie’s mother Rebecca, and her father Charles. Ash and Amelia’s story is next in WAIT FOR ALWAYS.
SECOND TO NONE is a complex and detailed story of family, friendships, relationships, secrets and love. The premise is captivating ; the romance is seductive and intense; the characters are charismatic and dynamic-the back and forth frenetic friendships remind me of the cast of FRIENDS™ without the humor or laugh track.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from first person perspective (Josie) using present day and memories from the past, cover several years in the life of our heroine, SECOND TO NONE follows the acrimonious and heart breaking relationship between Josie and Maddox. Josie is best friends with Maddox’s twin sister Marley but Marley had made Josie promise never to date her brother. The attraction between Maddox and Josie was palpable, and throughout the years Josie and Maddox would get together, break up, and eventually destroy one another’s hearts. Josie had always wanted to be a movie director but her first attempt was a disaster, and an offer to audition for a television show, would make our heroine a star. Maddox, jealous of Josie’s direction in life, a direction that no longer included our story line hero, went on to become an academy award winning set designer something of which Josie was proud. Fast forward to present day wherein Josie has been called back to Savannah Georgia, in an effort to film a movie finalizing the television show that was such a success but our heroine never expected to come face to face with her soulmate, the man who destroyed her heart years before. Enter Maddox Nelson. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Maddox and Josie, as our couple must come to terms with the past, paving way for a possible future for our story line couple.
Meanwhile, Josie has been estranged from her mother since she was twelve years old. Having lived with her father, a struggling artist, Josie never understood why her mother had abandoned our heroine for what appeared to be bigger and better things but her mother’s journal would reveal the truth, a truth that would bring Josie closer to her family, and to the success she once had.
The relationship between Josie and Maddox is an emotional roller coaster as our couple are constantly pushing one another away. Maddox and Josie have never stopped loving one another but they were often in different places at different times, and Maddox struggled with Josie’s success in the face of his own. Their rekindling relationship, brought together by forced proximity in the world of movie making, finds Josie looking back, wondering where everything went wrong. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
There is a large ensemble cast of colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters many of whom we have met throughout the series. We are introduced to Josie’s mother Rebecca, and her father Charles. Ash and Amelia’s story is next in WAIT FOR ALWAYS.
SECOND TO NONE is a complex and detailed story of family, friendships, relationships, secrets and love. The premise is captivating ; the romance is seductive and intense; the characters are charismatic and dynamic-the back and forth frenetic friendships remind me of the cast of FRIENDS™ without the humor or laugh track.
www.thereadingcafe.com
August 30, 2022
4 stars!
Second to None is Book Three in the Coastal Chronicles by K.A. Linde, and just like the others, it takes us on an emotional rollercoaster.
Josie grew up in a broken house and didn’t receive the attention a child should from her parents, ultimately shaping the person she becomes. She grew up living in Atlanta with her father but came back to Savannah to spend summers with her mother. Even though her home life wasn’t the greatest, her best friends, Lila and Marley were there to support her.
Marley’s twin brother, Maddox, has been in Josie’s life just as long as his sister and there has always been a connection. They relaly started noticing each other the Summer Josie turned sixteen but it isn’t until two years later when they finally kiss. It’s just what she dreamed of but life gets in the way and the two are pulled apart and hearts are broken.
Now, Josie is back in Savannah. She is the leading actress in a movie and Maddox ends up being the visual effects guy on the set. They haven’t seen each other in years but that connection they shared as teens is still very real no matter how hard they tried to move on from the heartache.
I love second chance romances and Josie and Maddox have a complicated one. From teens to adults, they were meant to be together. Unfortunately, they never seem to be at the same stage in life. When one is taking off, the other seems stuck. One thing remains though: the chemistry is off the charts and their love is palpable.
The story is told from Josie’s POV and flips from past to present which was really well done. I loved that I got more than just flashbacks with these two. It made everything more real. The flirty banter as teens is entertaining and I was so excited when they finally made a move. But it was short lived and we experience the first time hearts break. Now, the have to see each other every day which only makes the sexual tension spike. I knew these two would combust and sexy times as adults crank up the heat.
Josie and Maddox are more than just a second chance. Instead, they come together and are pulled apart more than once giving us a lot of heartache throughout their lives. I loved the growth they go through while discovering what they truly want. The pain is worth it for these two because things work out wonderfully and the epilogue is icing on the cake!
I love that we get Lila from Hold the Forevers and Marley from At First Hate , and can’t wait for the last book in the series. Ash has been through so much and I would love for him to find his happily ever after!
*ARC generously provided by the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions*
Second to None is Book Three in the Coastal Chronicles by K.A. Linde, and just like the others, it takes us on an emotional rollercoaster.
Josie grew up in a broken house and didn’t receive the attention a child should from her parents, ultimately shaping the person she becomes. She grew up living in Atlanta with her father but came back to Savannah to spend summers with her mother. Even though her home life wasn’t the greatest, her best friends, Lila and Marley were there to support her.
Marley’s twin brother, Maddox, has been in Josie’s life just as long as his sister and there has always been a connection. They relaly started noticing each other the Summer Josie turned sixteen but it isn’t until two years later when they finally kiss. It’s just what she dreamed of but life gets in the way and the two are pulled apart and hearts are broken.
Now, Josie is back in Savannah. She is the leading actress in a movie and Maddox ends up being the visual effects guy on the set. They haven’t seen each other in years but that connection they shared as teens is still very real no matter how hard they tried to move on from the heartache.
I love second chance romances and Josie and Maddox have a complicated one. From teens to adults, they were meant to be together. Unfortunately, they never seem to be at the same stage in life. When one is taking off, the other seems stuck. One thing remains though: the chemistry is off the charts and their love is palpable.
The story is told from Josie’s POV and flips from past to present which was really well done. I loved that I got more than just flashbacks with these two. It made everything more real. The flirty banter as teens is entertaining and I was so excited when they finally made a move. But it was short lived and we experience the first time hearts break. Now, the have to see each other every day which only makes the sexual tension spike. I knew these two would combust and sexy times as adults crank up the heat.
Josie and Maddox are more than just a second chance. Instead, they come together and are pulled apart more than once giving us a lot of heartache throughout their lives. I loved the growth they go through while discovering what they truly want. The pain is worth it for these two because things work out wonderfully and the epilogue is icing on the cake!
I love that we get Lila from Hold the Forevers and Marley from At First Hate , and can’t wait for the last book in the series. Ash has been through so much and I would love for him to find his happily ever after!
*ARC generously provided by the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions*
August 30, 2022
***Review can also be found at Jackie's Book World. :)***
Linde delivers all the emotional angst in Second to None, the third book in the Coastal Chronicles Series. This best friend’s brother second chance romance will leave you rooting for the characters until the very end.
After living in LA for the past decade, Josephine Reynolds is not used to the Savannah summers. But coming back to the home Josie used to spend every summer growing up brings her memories of her life before she got her big break. To those closest to her she is still Josie, but to the whole world she is an Emmy-winning actress whose hit teen supernatural show Academy has brought her wealth and a huge fan base. After the show ended on its eighth season, fans were ready to finally see the last chapter of the very successful show.
That is exactly what ultimately brings Josie to Savannah, to start filming the movie, knowing full well that she’ll be seeing Maddox Nelson again. She’s always liked him growing up, but being her best friend’s twin brother, Maddox quickly became off limits to Josie. Then everything changed the minute they crossed the line of no return and gave in to their feelings. Only to end things badly for them and for her life to completely change in one night. They were very different growing up, while Maddox was a total introvert, Josie was his complete opposite. She has always been the life of the party and still is. Yet, no matter how successful they both are, they still can’t get one thing right and that is to find the love of their lives. As for the past decade there has been a push and pull between them, always bringing them together only to bring them apart just as quickly. They’ve been through a lot, but there is something different this time around. Something that gives Josie hope of winning Maddox’s heart once and for all.
I throughly enjoyed reading Second to None, while the story is mainly written in Josie’s POV, Linde does a good job giving us enough details to fully get the whole picture. The storyline does switch from past to present as we slowly get to know the characters and their story. We get cameos from previous characters as well making the story a delight to read. We have two complete opposite characters whose attraction towards each other is undeniable, making it hard for them to fully move on from each other. They will always be connected in one way and that brings them together in the end. Ultimately, Josie finds the strength to go after what she wants with Maddox’s encouragement and the twist at the end was highly unexpected. I would highly recommend checking out this book as I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! :)
***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***
Linde delivers all the emotional angst in Second to None, the third book in the Coastal Chronicles Series. This best friend’s brother second chance romance will leave you rooting for the characters until the very end.
After living in LA for the past decade, Josephine Reynolds is not used to the Savannah summers. But coming back to the home Josie used to spend every summer growing up brings her memories of her life before she got her big break. To those closest to her she is still Josie, but to the whole world she is an Emmy-winning actress whose hit teen supernatural show Academy has brought her wealth and a huge fan base. After the show ended on its eighth season, fans were ready to finally see the last chapter of the very successful show.
That is exactly what ultimately brings Josie to Savannah, to start filming the movie, knowing full well that she’ll be seeing Maddox Nelson again. She’s always liked him growing up, but being her best friend’s twin brother, Maddox quickly became off limits to Josie. Then everything changed the minute they crossed the line of no return and gave in to their feelings. Only to end things badly for them and for her life to completely change in one night. They were very different growing up, while Maddox was a total introvert, Josie was his complete opposite. She has always been the life of the party and still is. Yet, no matter how successful they both are, they still can’t get one thing right and that is to find the love of their lives. As for the past decade there has been a push and pull between them, always bringing them together only to bring them apart just as quickly. They’ve been through a lot, but there is something different this time around. Something that gives Josie hope of winning Maddox’s heart once and for all.
I throughly enjoyed reading Second to None, while the story is mainly written in Josie’s POV, Linde does a good job giving us enough details to fully get the whole picture. The storyline does switch from past to present as we slowly get to know the characters and their story. We get cameos from previous characters as well making the story a delight to read. We have two complete opposite characters whose attraction towards each other is undeniable, making it hard for them to fully move on from each other. They will always be connected in one way and that brings them together in the end. Ultimately, Josie finds the strength to go after what she wants with Maddox’s encouragement and the twist at the end was highly unexpected. I would highly recommend checking out this book as I cannot wait to read the next book in the series! :)
***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***
October 4, 2022
First of all, you have to know that I am a fan of K.A. Linde and that being said I live in North Carolina and so a lot of this has personal appeal to me. I was raised in New York, don't get me wrong, but I have become a Carolinian because of being here so long. I even had a niece who went to NC she is a Tar Hill and so I come to Marley and Maddox the twins who grew up in Savannah and where the majority of this story takes place. I always remembered that I have a lot of time I have to allot when I start reading a K.A. Linde story because then I have to go back and see what I didn't read. K.A. Linde definitely did Maddox and Josie justice. This story is part of the Costal Chronicles, which involves Savannah GA and Atlanta GA with North Carolina thrown in. I felt that this is the way it should have been for these two young people all along. Josie the artist, actor, want to be director has always been a free spirit, whereas Maddox was raised by his grandparents and was limited in the things that he was allowed to do. We got Marley Nelson and Derek Ballantine and Lila and Cole. This story is of Marley's twin brother Maddox Nelson who has become and well renowned animator who began his career with Pixar and now owns his own company. I loved the contrast between Maddox and Josie which made them a good match because as they say opposites attract. This story goes back to the time when Maddox and Josie both went to the same college, which meant they stayed in Savannah because that was where the best college for artists was, the College of Arts and Design. Maddox became excellent as an animator, even won Grammys.
Josephine Reynolds spent summers in Savannah and that is how her and Marley and Lila became a trio of best friends. Josie aka Josephine spent more time at Marley and Maddox's home with them and their grandparents than she did at home with her mother the socialite. This was the story told in the past years from 2005 to the present where she is doing her final movie of her series called Academy where she played Cassie. To her surprise Maddox is doing the animation on the film, he sets the design for the scenes. Anyways this the story of how Maddox and Josie finally realize that they are better together than apart and the crazy things that they went through to get to where they are today. I love that the author gives both perspectives of the characters and builds up to where they are at the present time. I love this story and definitely wanted to read about more these young characters. It was like the cruel series you wanted for more. I would highly recommend this book and all of the books that make up the Costal Chronicles. This was definitely a good read.
Josephine Reynolds spent summers in Savannah and that is how her and Marley and Lila became a trio of best friends. Josie aka Josephine spent more time at Marley and Maddox's home with them and their grandparents than she did at home with her mother the socialite. This was the story told in the past years from 2005 to the present where she is doing her final movie of her series called Academy where she played Cassie. To her surprise Maddox is doing the animation on the film, he sets the design for the scenes. Anyways this the story of how Maddox and Josie finally realize that they are better together than apart and the crazy things that they went through to get to where they are today. I love that the author gives both perspectives of the characters and builds up to where they are at the present time. I love this story and definitely wanted to read about more these young characters. It was like the cruel series you wanted for more. I would highly recommend this book and all of the books that make up the Costal Chronicles. This was definitely a good read.
August 24, 2022
So many lives are intertwined while a love story weaves between Maddox and Josie. In Second To None we, the reader, get to visit their past and present as Maddox and Josie tell us their story of how their love changed and evolved and now might not be enough to survive a final time at redemption.
Maddox and Josie basically grew up together, with Josie being the best friend to Maddox's twin sister, Marley. Josie was a staple in their home, but when hormones hit so did the feelings. Even when Marley asked Josie not to pursue her brother, it became impossible when they both went to college and had harbored feelings for one another for several years. However, timing and circumstance was never on their side and they were never able to sustain a flame, but with one last chance could they finally be in the same spot with all the obstacles out of their way?
K.A. Linde definitely has written this series in a way that pulls at every emotion and brings out ALL the angst. I truly enjoyed how past and even future couples intertwined even more than the past books to interconnect with Maddox and Josie's story. This is a book where I feel that reading the first two books in this series will certainly enhance your reading experience, but if you wanted to go in blind and read it as a standalone it is still a beautiful love story between the main couple.
I don't necessarily want to talk about what's coming up next because this book isn't about them, but I also know that next couple might break me. Just knowing how Linde has written this entire series I think I need to stock up on tissues now.
I'm so happy that Maddox and Josie are finally here and their story is getting the HEA they deserve. I've loved this series from the beginning, even though I feel like my heart is ripped out every single time I step back into this world.
Maddox and Josie basically grew up together, with Josie being the best friend to Maddox's twin sister, Marley. Josie was a staple in their home, but when hormones hit so did the feelings. Even when Marley asked Josie not to pursue her brother, it became impossible when they both went to college and had harbored feelings for one another for several years. However, timing and circumstance was never on their side and they were never able to sustain a flame, but with one last chance could they finally be in the same spot with all the obstacles out of their way?
K.A. Linde definitely has written this series in a way that pulls at every emotion and brings out ALL the angst. I truly enjoyed how past and even future couples intertwined even more than the past books to interconnect with Maddox and Josie's story. This is a book where I feel that reading the first two books in this series will certainly enhance your reading experience, but if you wanted to go in blind and read it as a standalone it is still a beautiful love story between the main couple.
I don't necessarily want to talk about what's coming up next because this book isn't about them, but I also know that next couple might break me. Just knowing how Linde has written this entire series I think I need to stock up on tissues now.
I'm so happy that Maddox and Josie are finally here and their story is getting the HEA they deserve. I've loved this series from the beginning, even though I feel like my heart is ripped out every single time I step back into this world.
August 30, 2022
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥
Teenage crush. Best friend's brother. Co-worker.
Maddox Nelson was all of these and more to Josephine "Josie" Reynolds. Most importantly, he was her first and only love. No matter what she did to try and forget him -- including getting married and divorced twice to other folks -- he seemed to be embedded in her every being.
Now she has come back to her hometown of Savannah to film a movie, and her life just got even more complicated when Maddox joined the production.
Maddox and Josie's relationship has a robust history full of longing, disappointments, complications, and love. It spans a long time, which K.A. Linde beautifully conveys through flashbacks. Through this, Linde also weaves solid character development for each main character as they tackle their own insecurities about themselves and as a couple.
There is a lot of angst, but it is balanced nicely with spice and romance. There is no lack of chemistry between Josie and Maddox for sure.
This can be read as a standalone, but there are references to other books in this universe. Because each relationship has its own set of complications, figuring out who's who as a newbie to this world can be overwhelming.
The story also touches on the characters for the next installment, Ash and Amelia. Ash's mercurial personality is definitely intriguing, and I cannot wait to read their story.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to K.A. Linde and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for providing an ARC. **
STEAM: 🔥🔥🔥
Teenage crush. Best friend's brother. Co-worker.
Maddox Nelson was all of these and more to Josephine "Josie" Reynolds. Most importantly, he was her first and only love. No matter what she did to try and forget him -- including getting married and divorced twice to other folks -- he seemed to be embedded in her every being.
Now she has come back to her hometown of Savannah to film a movie, and her life just got even more complicated when Maddox joined the production.
Maddox and Josie's relationship has a robust history full of longing, disappointments, complications, and love. It spans a long time, which K.A. Linde beautifully conveys through flashbacks. Through this, Linde also weaves solid character development for each main character as they tackle their own insecurities about themselves and as a couple.
There is a lot of angst, but it is balanced nicely with spice and romance. There is no lack of chemistry between Josie and Maddox for sure.
This can be read as a standalone, but there are references to other books in this universe. Because each relationship has its own set of complications, figuring out who's who as a newbie to this world can be overwhelming.
The story also touches on the characters for the next installment, Ash and Amelia. Ash's mercurial personality is definitely intriguing, and I cannot wait to read their story.
** I am voluntarily reviewing an advance copy of this book. Thank you to K.A. Linde and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for providing an ARC. **
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