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A Second Chance
Her only future lay in her death...in the past
Kira Sakamichi is a career-driven woman, trying to achieve success before her mother's constant interference sentences her to a relationship. But when a grudging drive to meet her mother's latest "selection" ends in a lake accident, Kira wakes up lost in the past, part of the household of a 16th century samurai, and mother of a six-year-old son. When actions in battle lead to the samurai's condemnation, Kira learns that the house will share the samurai's fate. Only by understanding duty and family in both time periods can they survive.
Kira Sakamichi is a career-driven woman, trying to achieve success before her mother's constant interference sentences her to a relationship. But when a grudging drive to meet her mother's latest "selection" ends in a lake accident, Kira wakes up lost in the past, part of the household of a 16th century samurai, and mother of a six-year-old son. When actions in battle lead to the samurai's condemnation, Kira learns that the house will share the samurai's fate. Only by understanding duty and family in both time periods can they survive.
108 pages, Paperback
First published August 24, 2021
4 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Walt Mussell
8 books48 followersWalt Mussell lives in the Atlanta area with his wife and two sons. He works for a well-known corporation and writes in his spare time. Walt primarily writes historicals, with a focus on Japan, an interest he gained in the four years he lived there. Other titles include The Samurai's Heart, The Samurai's Honor, and A Second Chance. He does Japanese history videos in social media, gives lectures on Japan’s Christian Century to churches and civic groups, and has been a guest discussing Japan’s Christian history on SiriusXM’s The Catholic Channel. Check out his website at waltmussell.com.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
September 3, 2021
There is a lot happening in A Second Chance by Walt Mussell. This novella includes time travel to 16th century Japan, a faint romance thread, and the consideration of what is worthy of great sacrifice.
While I never quite found a compelling reason for modern-day Kira to be swept to the past (other than she looks like the woman from the past), once the time travel occurs, I didn’t care. Why? Because Mussell paints such a vivid picture of the Kira from the past’s life, I was immersed. And to enhance this 100-page story even more, the author includes a chapter-by-chapter listing of the historical events that influenced A Second Chance.
If you are in search of a quick evening read that transports you into Japanese history, you do not want to miss anything by Mussell.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
While I never quite found a compelling reason for modern-day Kira to be swept to the past (other than she looks like the woman from the past), once the time travel occurs, I didn’t care. Why? Because Mussell paints such a vivid picture of the Kira from the past’s life, I was immersed. And to enhance this 100-page story even more, the author includes a chapter-by-chapter listing of the historical events that influenced A Second Chance.
If you are in search of a quick evening read that transports you into Japanese history, you do not want to miss anything by Mussell.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
August 31, 2021
Mr. Mussell’s Japanese historical novels are an automatic must-read! His books, so rich and full, never fail to hold the reader’s attention. And A Second Chance is no exception. The history of the 16th century Samurai era comes alive as Kira lives an alternate life.
As with all historical fiction, the cultural differences can be staggering. I appreciated Kira’s confusion and puzzlement when she first awoke after her accident. Her slow grasp of where she was—and when. Her journey, though, was not just through time, but one of self-discovery [SPOILER.] She emerges confused, but with a shift in values and a new and deeper understanding of family and identity.
I look forward to more stories—travels—with Kira.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, A Second Chance, Walt Mussell, JustRead Publicity
As with all historical fiction, the cultural differences can be staggering. I appreciated Kira’s confusion and puzzlement when she first awoke after her accident. Her slow grasp of where she was—and when. Her journey, though, was not just through time, but one of self-discovery [SPOILER.] She emerges confused, but with a shift in values and a new and deeper understanding of family and identity.
I look forward to more stories—travels—with Kira.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
FOUR FEATHERS
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, A Second Chance, Walt Mussell, JustRead Publicity
August 30, 2021
While this is a relatively short novella, I found it to be well written and an interesting story of a young woman who travels back in time to Japan. I haven't read a lot about Japanese history, outside of world history classes that I had to take in school, so I found the historical element new and fascinating. The characters are well written and the story packs a lot into it over the course of about 100 pages. I enjoyed this tale and look forward to reading more by the author.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
September 1, 2021
Kira is a modern woman, the daughter of Japanese immigrants living in Georgia, when she escapes drowning only to find that she has somehow become a young mother in Japan's Tensho Era. As small pieces of knowledge drift into her mind, she discovers that she is a concubine to a powerful man, and that her household is in danger. As Kira navigates this unfamiliar life, she recalls the godly advice of her Grandmother and the history she learned from her Grandfather, finding courage when it is needed most.
Stories that involve memory issues always peak my interest, and I was a fan of Quantum Leap, so I was intrigued by the premise of this novella. I found it so fascinating to read Kira's inner thoughts - the ease with which she considers different ideologies, destiny, Christian faith and reincarnation - and to see how she adapts to another time and how the experience changes her.
A Second Chance is just what I look for in Historical Fiction with time travel, well researched with a tightly plotted, adventurous storyline with just the right touch of romance. And beyond having a glossary and bibliography, I found that I greatly appreciated the chapter by chapter historical and cultural notes (and even more so the note asking to be emailed with any historical mistakes) that author Walt Mussell included. Recommended.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Stories that involve memory issues always peak my interest, and I was a fan of Quantum Leap, so I was intrigued by the premise of this novella. I found it so fascinating to read Kira's inner thoughts - the ease with which she considers different ideologies, destiny, Christian faith and reincarnation - and to see how she adapts to another time and how the experience changes her.
A Second Chance is just what I look for in Historical Fiction with time travel, well researched with a tightly plotted, adventurous storyline with just the right touch of romance. And beyond having a glossary and bibliography, I found that I greatly appreciated the chapter by chapter historical and cultural notes (and even more so the note asking to be emailed with any historical mistakes) that author Walt Mussell included. Recommended.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
December 27, 2021
At around 100 pages, A Second Chance by Walt Mussell offers a short, time travel story filled with unique family dynamics and life-and-death danger. The author’s talent shines as he offers a complete, unhurried tale in so few pages. With perfectly balanced character dialogue and setting descriptions, the narrative seamlessly transitions from modern day to 16th century Japan.
I found A Second Chance highly entertaining. The historical setting felt fresh and interesting. I learned a bit about Japanese history, the samurai, and 16th century Buddhist monks. Although Kira holds to the American Christianity of her upbringing, some of the historical characters subscribe to Buddhism. Both religions are treated respectfully, without dogmatism or conflict.
I loved the ending of A Second Chance by Walt Mussell, and I was pleased to read in the author’s acknowledgements that Kira will appear in future stories. A Second Chance is suitable for readers of Christian fiction or general market fiction. Although the “d-word” is used twice, it didn’t hamper my reading enjoyment. I must also give a trigger warning as the historical storyline includes suicide as an honorable act and Kira as a concubine (nothing sexual/erotic on page). Neither are pleasant to read about, but appear as practices of that time.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
I found A Second Chance highly entertaining. The historical setting felt fresh and interesting. I learned a bit about Japanese history, the samurai, and 16th century Buddhist monks. Although Kira holds to the American Christianity of her upbringing, some of the historical characters subscribe to Buddhism. Both religions are treated respectfully, without dogmatism or conflict.
I loved the ending of A Second Chance by Walt Mussell, and I was pleased to read in the author’s acknowledgements that Kira will appear in future stories. A Second Chance is suitable for readers of Christian fiction or general market fiction. Although the “d-word” is used twice, it didn’t hamper my reading enjoyment. I must also give a trigger warning as the historical storyline includes suicide as an honorable act and Kira as a concubine (nothing sexual/erotic on page). Neither are pleasant to read about, but appear as practices of that time.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
September 21, 2021
What a beautiful story the author teaches us in the most creative way about 1500s Japan. Now don’t think this is just a history lesson – far from it. Kira a smart, successful, modern woman is involved in accident and when she awakes she finds herself in 1500s Japan. Walt Mussell is a brilliant, talented author. He has a way of interweaving the tiniest details of life in both her worlds giving the reader an experience they won’t soon forget. This is a brilliant read ... well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start. Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable. Great suspense and action with and wonderful world building. You learn of Japan and its history almost by mistake, kind of an after thought. But it is not, it is the writer’s intent all along.
August 24, 2021
Very interesting!
It's only a hundred pages long. Yet, A Second Chance was the perfect length to tell Kira's story.
It is an interesting novella, packed with information about life, Samurai, and honor in sixteenth-century Japan. And, unlike Mussell's other historical fiction, this one has the added element of time travel! Which was executed well and was a clever way to impart knowledge without making it sound like a history textbook.
There are indications in the author's notes that there might be future stories telling what happened to some of the other characters. If so, I'd love to read them!
If you enjoy reading about Japan or historical fiction, I encourage you to read A Second Chance.
Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
It's only a hundred pages long. Yet, A Second Chance was the perfect length to tell Kira's story.
It is an interesting novella, packed with information about life, Samurai, and honor in sixteenth-century Japan. And, unlike Mussell's other historical fiction, this one has the added element of time travel! Which was executed well and was a clever way to impart knowledge without making it sound like a history textbook.
There are indications in the author's notes that there might be future stories telling what happened to some of the other characters. If so, I'd love to read them!
If you enjoy reading about Japan or historical fiction, I encourage you to read A Second Chance.
Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
November 17, 2021
What a great third novel for Mr Mussell! He is able to take the ‘Quantum Leap’ approach to accomplish an amazing change of events which I dint want to give away. It’s almost like the heroine is living two lives. Walt has extensive knowledge of 16th century Japan. Having lived there, Walt is able to creatively produce fictional characters to fit into this 16th century Japan. It’s a great, easy to read novella. I was asked to provide a review and given a free download of this book. However, this is my own opinion.
September 7, 2021
I'm a big fan of time travel. In theory. (I mean, we all know that IF one could make it back in time the probability of messing things up would be high. Just ask anyone who ever took a trip on Doctor Who's TARDIS.) But it's a fabulous topic for a great fiction read.
In A Second Chance, we get to meet Kira. She's smart, driven, and very successful in her career. But when her drive to her parents' home ends up with a collision, Kira finds herself in the past; five hundred years in the past. She doesn't recognize anyone or where she is, but she learns, as she interacts with her small son (which she definitely doesn't have in her own time) and her friend, a priest, that she is the concubine of a powerful man. That man is a samurai. And Kira's position is actually pretty delicate. What can she do to save her own life, and the life of those around her, that she loves?
I truly enjoyed reading this novella about what happens to a strong woman when she's faced with a time and a place where danger abounds, the culture isn't anything like she is used to, and in an era where woman hardly have a voice, much less power. Kira faces all of these situations. Will she survive, and will she be able to return to her own time? Read this book to find out, and engage with a fascinating group of characters in a time quite unlike our own!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
In A Second Chance, we get to meet Kira. She's smart, driven, and very successful in her career. But when her drive to her parents' home ends up with a collision, Kira finds herself in the past; five hundred years in the past. She doesn't recognize anyone or where she is, but she learns, as she interacts with her small son (which she definitely doesn't have in her own time) and her friend, a priest, that she is the concubine of a powerful man. That man is a samurai. And Kira's position is actually pretty delicate. What can she do to save her own life, and the life of those around her, that she loves?
I truly enjoyed reading this novella about what happens to a strong woman when she's faced with a time and a place where danger abounds, the culture isn't anything like she is used to, and in an era where woman hardly have a voice, much less power. Kira faces all of these situations. Will she survive, and will she be able to return to her own time? Read this book to find out, and engage with a fascinating group of characters in a time quite unlike our own!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
November 17, 2025
A Second Chance is a fascinating and immersive story that effortlessly blends historical intrigue, emotional depth, and a touch of magical realism. Walt Mussell takes readers on a whirlwind journey as Kira Sakamichi, a modern career-driven woman, is transported into the life of a 16th-century samurai’s concubine completely upending her understanding of love, duty, and family.
What struck me most is how Mussell balances two very different worlds. Kira’s modern frustrations and ambitions collide beautifully with the rigid codes of samurai honor and the weight of historical expectation. Her struggle to adapt while protecting her son, understanding the consequences of each action, and navigating the intricate politics of the past is gripping and emotionally resonant.
The story excels at combining tension, romance, and character growth. Kira isn’t a passive observer she is active, resourceful, and deeply human, making her journey one readers can root for and relate to. The stakes feel real, and the historical detail enriches the narrative without ever slowing the pacing.
A Second Chance is a thrilling, heartfelt exploration of how love, courage, and family transcend time. For anyone who enjoys historical romance with a twist of fate, time travel, and complex emotional stakes, this book is an unforgettable ride.
What struck me most is how Mussell balances two very different worlds. Kira’s modern frustrations and ambitions collide beautifully with the rigid codes of samurai honor and the weight of historical expectation. Her struggle to adapt while protecting her son, understanding the consequences of each action, and navigating the intricate politics of the past is gripping and emotionally resonant.
The story excels at combining tension, romance, and character growth. Kira isn’t a passive observer she is active, resourceful, and deeply human, making her journey one readers can root for and relate to. The stakes feel real, and the historical detail enriches the narrative without ever slowing the pacing.
A Second Chance is a thrilling, heartfelt exploration of how love, courage, and family transcend time. For anyone who enjoys historical romance with a twist of fate, time travel, and complex emotional stakes, this book is an unforgettable ride.
February 20, 2022
Career-driven Kira isn't exactly looking forward to meeting the latest man her matchmaking mother has picked out for her. But when the drive to her mother's place ends in a lake accident, Kira wakes up in the 16th century as the mother of the young son of a samurai—in a household facing grim trouble in A Second Chance by author Walt Mussell.
I either skimmed or skipped reading the blurb for this novella before I put it on my TBR list months ago. Because I've enjoyed other fiction set in historical Japan by this author, hearing he'd written a fantasy novella and seeing its amazing book cover was enough for me.
There's an abundance of detail and plenty of atmosphere in this time travel/time slip tale. In a way, I felt about as lost as Kira for a while as I floated along with the curious flow of the unfolding plot. But then the story's elements of "what" and "why," the meaning of the past and the blessing of the present, gradually came together in stirring fashion.
This read left me with an almost haunting sense of hope. If any of these characters happen to appear in a future story, I'll be there for it.
___________
I received a complimentary copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review.
I either skimmed or skipped reading the blurb for this novella before I put it on my TBR list months ago. Because I've enjoyed other fiction set in historical Japan by this author, hearing he'd written a fantasy novella and seeing its amazing book cover was enough for me.
There's an abundance of detail and plenty of atmosphere in this time travel/time slip tale. In a way, I felt about as lost as Kira for a while as I floated along with the curious flow of the unfolding plot. But then the story's elements of "what" and "why," the meaning of the past and the blessing of the present, gradually came together in stirring fashion.
This read left me with an almost haunting sense of hope. If any of these characters happen to appear in a future story, I'll be there for it.
___________
I received a complimentary copy of this book, for which I've given an honest review.
September 1, 2021
I am a huge fan of time travel stories. I love seeing how someone in a recent time period handles and adjusts to a historical time frame. A Second Chance lived up to my expectations!
Kira ends up in 16th century Japan as a Samurai’s concubine with a young child. I loved reading about the time period, and I thought that the author did a wonderful job of bringing the location to life. The details added were great, creating a world that I could easily envision.
Kira’s story was captivating. I loved the problems she encounters and the lessons she learns. At just over 100 pages, this was a fast-paced, quick read, but it was just the right length to be able to bring Kira’s story to life. I would highly recommend this one for any reader that enjoys time travel and historical fiction!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Kira ends up in 16th century Japan as a Samurai’s concubine with a young child. I loved reading about the time period, and I thought that the author did a wonderful job of bringing the location to life. The details added were great, creating a world that I could easily envision.
Kira’s story was captivating. I loved the problems she encounters and the lessons she learns. At just over 100 pages, this was a fast-paced, quick read, but it was just the right length to be able to bring Kira’s story to life. I would highly recommend this one for any reader that enjoys time travel and historical fiction!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
January 21, 2022
I bought this novella because I really enjoy reading about Japanese culture, and the novella length is great for a quick read. The detail and historical world-building seemed very well researched, and Mussell portrayed them very naturally in the storytelling, from tea ceremony accoutrements, to garments, to the monks and the samurai.
TW for seppuku and suicide (which is historically accurate).
The ending had a few twists I didn't expect, and I really liked that.
It left me wanting more. To know more about the world in the past, and Shin, and Igami. Now off to look and see if there are other books connected to this one...
TW for seppuku and suicide (which is historically accurate).
The ending had a few twists I didn't expect, and I really liked that.
It left me wanting more. To know more about the world in the past, and Shin, and Igami. Now off to look and see if there are other books connected to this one...
February 3, 2022
Fabulous and fascinating!
This was a really great, short, time travel read based on Japanese history. Sucked this reader in and learnt so much about the Japanese duty and honour - so sad that ritual suicide was considered the honourable way to ‘keep face’.
Kept the reader guessing as to the final outcome and yes, totally want to see what will happen in the future (or the past!!) to Kira.
Highly recommended - please read!
This was a really great, short, time travel read based on Japanese history. Sucked this reader in and learnt so much about the Japanese duty and honour - so sad that ritual suicide was considered the honourable way to ‘keep face’.
Kept the reader guessing as to the final outcome and yes, totally want to see what will happen in the future (or the past!!) to Kira.
Highly recommended - please read!
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews