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South Carolina Sunsets #2
Sunsets & Second Chances
He's standing in front of her...
... after ten long years.
No one knows why Dixie's son is standing there, on Christmas Day, no less. And he doesn't look happy.
Dixie is keeping a big secret that will shake up everyone around her.
Julie's daughter, Colleen, is coming home for a visit, but she's not alone.
Janine makes a new friend, but nobody is thrilled about it.
Julie and Dawson question their budding relationship. Will they move forward or decide that being friends is the best way to go?
There's so much happening on this little island, including the return of Julie's ex husband and a shocking surprise at the end.
This women's divorce fiction book will give you all the feels. Grab your tissues and go on a journey with this quirky cast of characters. Get it now.
... after ten long years.
No one knows why Dixie's son is standing there, on Christmas Day, no less. And he doesn't look happy.
Dixie is keeping a big secret that will shake up everyone around her.
Julie's daughter, Colleen, is coming home for a visit, but she's not alone.
Janine makes a new friend, but nobody is thrilled about it.
Julie and Dawson question their budding relationship. Will they move forward or decide that being friends is the best way to go?
There's so much happening on this little island, including the return of Julie's ex husband and a shocking surprise at the end.
This women's divorce fiction book will give you all the feels. Grab your tissues and go on a journey with this quirky cast of characters. Get it now.
208 pages, Paperback
Published August 6, 2020
7567 people are currently reading
3108 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Hanna
98 books2,855 followersHey there! Before I tell you all about myself, can I invite you to join my private Rachel's Readers Facebook group? That's where my readers hang out, discuss my books, participate in giveaways and learn about new releases.
You can join us here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Rache...
So who am I? My name is Rachel Hanna, and I am a wife, mother of three incredible kids (maybe I am a BIT biased?), two lovable doggies and one cat that lives outside and thinks he owns the world. Okay, I also have a gecko now too. Don't judge me.
I started writing as a young child, and I went into the field of Journalism for many years as an adult. Now, as a romantic fiction writer, I get to live out my own daydreams every single day and share them with readers around the world!
I'm a Southern chick living near Atlanta, so I say "yes, ma'm" and "ya'll", but I wouldn't have it any other way. :)
You can join us here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Rache...
So who am I? My name is Rachel Hanna, and I am a wife, mother of three incredible kids (maybe I am a BIT biased?), two lovable doggies and one cat that lives outside and thinks he owns the world. Okay, I also have a gecko now too. Don't judge me.
I started writing as a young child, and I went into the field of Journalism for many years as an adult. Now, as a romantic fiction writer, I get to live out my own daydreams every single day and share them with readers around the world!
I'm a Southern chick living near Atlanta, so I say "yes, ma'm" and "ya'll", but I wouldn't have it any other way. :)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 390 reviews
July 17, 2025
aaaand just finished the 2nd in the series! again, very cute! might pick it back up if i need something short + quick, or if they were all on kindle unlimited. each book is less than 200 pages and follows the same story throughout each book.
August 21, 2021
Not sure I will continue with series or author. My not-quite-8 year old granddaughter has a better vocabulary and describes things with more sophistication. Almost too insipid to was time over.
March 19, 2024
I am loving this series so much; it’s just so wholesome. The character building has been amazing, I feel like I know each and every one of them. I would love to personally experience the southern hospitality—these friendships! ♥️ Reading about the scenery makes me want to visit the east coast, as I have never been. I want to experience what Julie experiences in the book! I’m a west coast gal, but Rachel’s books make me want to leave this place!! I can’t wait to read the next book!
November 23, 2019
ARC for honest review with no compensation
Sunsets & Second Chances is book 2 in the South Carolina Sunsets series by Rachel Hanna. While a standalone reading them in order give you more background and following the interaction between the characters.
When Dixie’s long lost son William shows up we find out more about their relationship problems, Julie’s daughter, Colleen shows up engaged...Mom’s not impressed, Dawson and Julie are working through their relationship slowly, Janine and William spend time together and when we think we see things working out for everyone, Julie’s other daughter Meg shows up and leaves us with more drama....can’t wait for the next book!!
Sunsets & Second Chances is book 2 in the South Carolina Sunsets series by Rachel Hanna. While a standalone reading them in order give you more background and following the interaction between the characters.
When Dixie’s long lost son William shows up we find out more about their relationship problems, Julie’s daughter, Colleen shows up engaged...Mom’s not impressed, Dawson and Julie are working through their relationship slowly, Janine and William spend time together and when we think we see things working out for everyone, Julie’s other daughter Meg shows up and leaves us with more drama....can’t wait for the next book!!
June 6, 2021
Interesting to see everyone evolving and loving the 2 couple dynamics. Very fast story. Nice to see family can be what you make of it
June 2, 2024
I’m interested in the story but not a fan of the writing.
September 23, 2024
I am so glad that I found this author. These books in the series are very small novellas. They are one sitting reads. Fast, fun reads. This is book 2 in the South Carolina Sunsets series, and it is a cliff hanger. I love all the characters make repeat appearances in each book. I was left stunned at the end. I can't wait to dive into book three.
October 12, 2024
A fast , easy and enjoyable novella in a beautiful setting. Dixie’s son
William comes home and tells Mom about his feelings when they lost
Dad. Julie ‘s daughter arrives with a finance . They all deal with family
Problems and Julie and Janine find love interests. A great family tale with
Real characters dealing with life problems. Recommended.
William comes home and tells Mom about his feelings when they lost
Dad. Julie ‘s daughter arrives with a finance . They all deal with family
Problems and Julie and Janine find love interests. A great family tale with
Real characters dealing with life problems. Recommended.
July 7, 2024
So cozy & heartwarming 🥰 This is a great beach read series. I live in SC and am a beach girl, so this storyline is so fun for me. I look forward to the next books!
January 28, 2025
Very good read! Can’t wait for #3..
March 15, 2025
Another great book.
March 29, 2025
3.5 stars I'm invested in the characters now & will keep reading. Simple stories they are kind of like comfort food! You know what to expect & will enjoy it.
July 27, 2025
Good beach read .i want to continue reading the series.
September 2, 2025
3.5 stars. Cheesy writing (still) but I wanted it know what happens so I read the next book. Not sure I care enough to read the 3rd …
September 17, 2025
Fast, effortless, and pleasantly warm to read.
August 12, 2023
3.5 +
This Summary/Review was copied from other sources and is used only as a reminder of what the book was about for my personal interest. Any Personal Notations are for my recollection only.
**
Sunsets & Second Chances is the follow up story to The Beach House. I really feel that reading them in order will help you keep everyone & everything straight in the story. Julie has had a complete upheaval in her life & is finally coming to terms with it. He husband cheated on her & filed for divorce. Her daughters are out making their marks on the world. She’s moved to a little beach house that is all her own, started working in a book store & is developing a relationship with a neighbor. Her sister has moved in with her & they are forming a tight relationship. Her life seems right on track but you know what usually happens then! Her daughter Colleen shows up engaged to a man Julie thinks is all wrong for her.
Ms. Hanna has written a wonderful series about a woman’s life that has fallen apart just when she thought it was time to enjoy it. Julie, the main character, is crafted with remarkable strength & grace. She’s strong enough to survive the emotional storm she’s been put through & is beginning to look forward to new days. She’s shown the courage to put herself out there & start a new relationship. Now she’s showing her daughter how to grow into the same type of woman. I can’t wait for the next chapter of Julie’s life & Meg’s addition to the drama.
**
When Dixie’s long lost son William shows up we find out more about their relationship problems, Julie’s daughter, Colleen shows up engaged...Mom’s not impressed, Dawson and Julie are working through their relationship slowly, Janine and William spend time together and when we think we see things working out for everyone, Julie’s other daughter Meg shows up and leaves us with more drama....can’t wait for the next book!!
**
Four weeks later If there was one thing that Julie had learned, it was that a lot can change in just a few weeks. Having her daughter home with her for the last month had been such a blessing. They had gotten to catch up on so much lost time, and she couldn't imagine ever living so far away from her again. There was just something about knowing a child once they were an adult. It was a different relationship than raising the same child. They were more like friends, although she still gave her motherly advice whether it was wanted or not. Colleen had hit the ground running, much to Julie's surprise. She had found an assistant job at a local attorney's office that prosecuted a lot of domestic violence cases. She was thrilled to be involved in something that she believed in, so letting Peter go had proven to be easier than either one of them had anticipated.Once her things were delivered, she set up her bedroom. Julie really enjoyed having both Janine and Colleen living in the house with her. They had a lot of girl time, going to get pedicures, shopping on the square and staying up late, drinking coffee and gossiping about anything and everything. It made Julie feel young again. Things had also started to ramp up between her and Dawson. They had gone out on several dates, and Colleen greatly approved of him. They had forged their own relationship as friends, Dawson even going as far as taking Colleen on a kayak tour down the marsh. He wanted her to get to know the area so that she would stay and make Julie happy. Janine and William had also been spending more time together, with him often dropping in on her yoga classes on the beach. The marketing had paid off greatly, and now she regularly had fifteen to twenty people in her morning classes. Things were going so well that she was already thinking about getting her own space near the square sometime before summer. As Julie stood in the kitchen, snapping green beans and throwing them into a pot for Sunday dinner, she thought about all of the many blessings that just accumulated right in front of her. She thought about how when hard times hit, it's so easy to think things will always be bad. But, somehow, instead of things getting worse, they got better.
When her marriage fell apart, she worried that her life would never be the same again, and it wouldn't. But not in a bad way. It wouldn't be the same because now she and her sister had a great relationship. It wouldn't be the same because now she had a totally different kind of man in her life. It wouldn't be the same because she had a spitfire for a new best friend and business partner. It wouldn't be the same because her beautiful daughter was now living with her and becoming one of her best friends. She put the beans on to boil and then turned her attention to peeling some potatoes. "Anything I can help with?" Colleen asked as she walked into the kitchen. "Actually, yes. If you can start making the sweet tea, that would be great." "What time is everyone supposed to be here?" "Sunday dinner starts at twelve o'clock, on the dot." "Who all is coming this week?" "Well, I know Janine invited William. Of course, Dawson is coming.” "Of course," Colleen said with a smile. "And we also have Dixie coming this week. She's going to give us an update on her treatment, but judging from what I've seen at work, she's doing really well."
"I'm so glad. I know I've only known her for a month, but I feel like she's my grandma!” "Well I wouldn't tell your real grandmother that," Julie said with a laugh. "Oh, never," Colleen said, smiling. "I heard from Dad today." "Oh yeah? And what did he have to say?" "He’s starting some new kind of rehab. Also, they had Charlie's first birthday party. He sent me a few pictures." "Good. I'm glad you are able to have a relationship with your father.” Julie had really worked on her negative feelings about Michael. Now, she was trying to focus on the good times they had as a family and not so much on the way things ended. Plus, she figured he was Victoria's problem now. "What still needs to be done?" Janine asked as she walked into the kitchen. "Can you check the roast in the oven?" "Roast? Are you sure this one is going to eat it?" Janine asked, squeezing Colleen’s shoulder. "Don't worry. I'm in South Carolina now. I've decided to only be a part-time vegan." Julie chuckled. "I'm not sure that's a thing." The three women spent the next hour in the kitchen together, preparing everything for Sunday dinner. They carried it all to the table, including a blueberry pie that Julie had made the night before. She was getting very accustomed to cooking a lot because it seemed like she always had company at her house. Just before noon, Dawson and William walked into the house with Dixie trailing not far behind. They had picked her up on the way to the house so that she didn't have to drive her car. Dawson was still very overprotective, as well as William. "Happy Sunday!" Dixie said. "I brought the rolls!" "Yay ! I love your yeast rolls!" Julie said, taking the covered basket from her hands and giving her a quick kiss on the cheek. Dawson met her in the kitchen and pulled her into a tight hug. "Good morning, beautiful," he said before planting a kiss on the top of her head. Things were getting more serious with them by the day, but Julie had no more qualms about it. She knew exactly the man he was. "Good morning, yourself. Thanks for picking Dixie up." He smiled. "Of course. We couldn't have Sunday dinner without our adoptive mother, could we?" She rose up on her tiptoes and kissed him on the cheek. "No PDA in the kitchen!" William said as he walked in to put down a tray of cupcakes that Dixie had apparently brought also. "PDA isn't so bad," Janine said as she walked up behind him and poked him in the side.
"Why on earth did Dixie bring cupcakes? We already have a pie. There aren't enough people here to eat this many calories!" Julie said with a laugh. Everyone sat down at the table and joined hands to say grace. This was something that had become a tradition, and it reminded Julie of her days growing up with her parents. Grace was an important part of Sunday dinner, and really any meal around at their table. "Dear Lord, we thank you for this food and for everyone sitting around this table. Please help the food to nourish our bodies and keep us all safe. Thank you for your many blessings. Amen.” Dawson was usually the one who said the prayer, and he did a great job at it. "Let's dig in!" Julie said. Everyone started talking and laughing and passing dishes of food around. She was happy to see Dixie in such a good mood. Her medication changes and the adjoining therapy seemed to have stalled at the progress of her disease, and she was back to her old self, cracking jokes and poking fun at everyone. When they were in the middle of their meal, Julie heard someone knock at the door. For a moment, she looked around the table trying to figure out who could be out there. Everybody she knew and loved was sitting with her. "Well, that can't be William and his sour face because he’s sitting right there," Dawson said. William tossed part of a roll at him, nailing him on his arm. "You're going to regret that," Dawson said with a chuckle.
"I'll get it," Julie said. “And don't eat all of those mashed potatoes before I get back!" She opened the door and saw the last person she ever expected to see standing there. "Meg? Oh my gosh! What are you doing here?" Within seconds, Colleen and Janine had run to the door as well, all of them taking turns hugging Julie's youngest daughter. "Hey, everybody!” Meg said, a big smile on her face. Meg had always been her happiest kid, full of enthusiasm for whatever was going on at the time. Her tiny stature did not hide her huge personality. "I'm so happy you're here, honey, but how? What's going on?" Meg smiled. "I was a little jealous seeing my sister with you on social media, so I wanted to join in the fun." "Well, come inside! Join the fun!" Julie said, very uneasy about her daughter’s sudden appearance at her front door. None of this made sense, but she was so happy to have both of her children together in the same room that she didn't want to poke at it too much. Meg walked inside as everyone started introducing themselves. Julie could tell she was a little bit overwhelmed, trying to keep up with all of the names and faces. "I don't understand, sweetie. Are you able to just leave your school just like that?"
“Oh, I took a leave of absence from the program. Maybe I'll go back next school year. I just needed… a break. It was a lot of stress being that far from home." “What about Christian?” Meg’s face dropped a bit. “That didn’t work out.” “Oh, I’m sorry, honey. Well, you are so welcome here. I'm sure Colleen won't mind sharing a room with you again." Colleen smiled. "I guess so. She’s small, so we should be fine." The sisters laughed and hugged each other. Janine glanced at Julie. The two of them both had worried looks on their faces. But if there was one thing Julie had learned, it was to let things unfold slowly before reacting. And right now, that was all she knew to do. Meg stood next to the bed, wishing she could climb in and fall asleep already, but Colleen was still brushing her teeth and making too much noise. It was only ten at night, but she was exhausted from a very long day of traveling. Thankfully, Colleen had work early in the morning and needed to hit the sack too. “Are you going to miss Paris and all of the baguettes?” Colleen asked when she walked back into the room. “The cheese was the best part. I swear I gained five pounds over there.”
Colleen looked at her. “Just five? Are you sure?” Meg glared at her. “Not nice.” “You know I was just joking, sis! You’re still a tiny thing, as always.” “I better hit the bathroom one more time before bed. Are you done in there?” “Yep. I’m going to write in my journal until you come out.” “Okay.” Meg walked into the bathroom and shut the door. She sat down on the closed toilet and took in a deep breath. This was the most stressed out she’d been in a long time, and she had second guessed her decision to come home during every moment of the flight. But, she didn’t know what else to do. She stood up and brushed her long, dark hair. She had done this every night since elementary school. One hundred brush strokes, no more and no less. She turned and looked at the full length mirror on the back of the door and stared into it. Her face was puffy from all the extra tears she’d shed recently, and her cheeks looked chubbier. Maybe that was just from all her beloved cheese. Then, she turned sideways and carefully inspected her whole body. Were her thighs getting bigger? Was that a double chin? She had never been a vain person. This was more about self protection. She needed some time to figure out her next move, and keeping her secret was critical. She put her hands on her lower abdomen and looked down. “I promise I’ll make the best decision for you,” she whispered, a tear rolling down her cheek.
“You coming out?” Colleen called from the other side of the door. Meg wiped away the tear. “Yeah, coming right now,” she said, before opening the door and crawling into bed.
**
Sunsets & Second Chances is the follow up story to The Beach House. I really feel that reading them in order will help you keep everyone & everything straight in the story. Julie has had a complete upheaval in her life & is finally coming to terms with it. He husband cheated on her & filed for divorce. Her daughters are out making their marks on the world. She’s moved to a little beach house that is all her own, started working in a book store & is developing a relationship with a neighbor. Her sister has moved in with her & they are forming a tight relationship. Her life seems right on track but you know what usually happens then! Her daughter Colleen shows up engaged to a man Julie thinks is all wrong for her.
Ms. Hanna has written a wonderful series about a woman’s life that has fallen apart just when she thought it was time to enjoy it. Julie, the main character, is crafted with remarkable strength & grace. She’s strong enough to survive the emotional storm she’s been put through & is beginning to look forward to new days. She’s shown the courage to put herself out there & start a new relationship. Now she’s showing her daughter how to grow into the same type of woman. I can’t wait for the next chapter of Julie’s life & Meg’s addition to the drama.
**
When Dixie’s long lost son William shows up we find out more about their relationship problems, Julie’s daughter, Colleen shows up engaged...Mom’s not impressed, Dawson and Julie are working through their relationship slowly, Janine and William spend time together and when we think we see things working out for everyone, Julie’s other daughter Meg shows up and leaves us with more drama....can’t wait for the next book!!
**
Four weeks later If there was one thing that Julie had learned, it was that a lot can change in just a few weeks. Having her daughter home with her for the last month had been such a blessing. They had gotten to catch up on so much lost time, and she couldn't imagine ever living so far away from her again. There was just something about knowing a child once they were an adult. It was a different relationship than raising the same child. They were more like friends, although she still gave her motherly advice whether it was wanted or not. Colleen had hit the ground running, much to Julie's surprise. She had found an assistant job at a local attorney's office that prosecuted a lot of domestic violence cases. She was thrilled to be involved in something that she believed in, so letting Peter go had proven to be easier than either one of them had anticipated.Once her things were delivered, she set up her bedroom. Julie really enjoyed having both Janine and Colleen living in the house with her. They had a lot of girl time, going to get pedicures, shopping on the square and staying up late, drinking coffee and gossiping about anything and everything. It made Julie feel young again. Things had also started to ramp up between her and Dawson. They had gone out on several dates, and Colleen greatly approved of him. They had forged their own relationship as friends, Dawson even going as far as taking Colleen on a kayak tour down the marsh. He wanted her to get to know the area so that she would stay and make Julie happy. Janine and William had also been spending more time together, with him often dropping in on her yoga classes on the beach. The marketing had paid off greatly, and now she regularly had fifteen to twenty people in her morning classes. Things were going so well that she was already thinking about getting her own space near the square sometime before summer. As Julie stood in the kitchen, snapping green beans and throwing them into a pot for Sunday dinner, she thought about all of the many blessings that just accumulated right in front of her. She thought about how when hard times hit, it's so easy to think things will always be bad. But, somehow, instead of things getting worse, they got better.
When her marriage fell apart, she worried that her life would never be the same again, and it wouldn't. But not in a bad way. It wouldn't be the same because now she and her sister had a great relationship. It wouldn't be the same because now she had a totally different kind of man in her life. It wouldn't be the same because she had a spitfire for a new best friend and business partner. It wouldn't be the same because her beautiful daughter was now living with her and becoming one of her best friends. She put the beans on to boil and then turned her attention to peeling some potatoes. "Anything I can help with?" Colleen asked as she walked into the kitchen. "Actually, yes. If you can start making the sweet tea, that would be great." "What time is everyone supposed to be here?" "Sunday dinner starts at twelve o'clock, on the dot." "Who all is coming this week?" "Well, I know Janine invited William. Of course, Dawson is coming.” "Of course," Colleen said with a smile. "And we also have Dixie coming this week. She's going to give us an update on her treatment, but judging from what I've seen at work, she's doing really well."
"I'm so glad. I know I've only known her for a month, but I feel like she's my grandma!” "Well I wouldn't tell your real grandmother that," Julie said with a laugh. "Oh, never," Colleen said, smiling. "I heard from Dad today." "Oh yeah? And what did he have to say?" "He’s starting some new kind of rehab. Also, they had Charlie's first birthday party. He sent me a few pictures." "Good. I'm glad you are able to have a relationship with your father.” Julie had really worked on her negative feelings about Michael. Now, she was trying to focus on the good times they had as a family and not so much on the way things ended. Plus, she figured he was Victoria's problem now. "What still needs to be done?" Janine asked as she walked into the kitchen. "Can you check the roast in the oven?" "Roast? Are you sure this one is going to eat it?" Janine asked, squeezing Colleen’s shoulder. "Don't worry. I'm in South Carolina now. I've decided to only be a part-time vegan." Julie chuckled. "I'm not sure that's a thing." The three women spent the next hour in the kitchen together, preparing everything for Sunday dinner. They carried it all to the table, including a blueberry pie that Julie had made the night before. She was getting very accustomed to cooking a lot because it seemed like she always had company at her house. Just before noon, Dawson and William walked into the house with Dixie trailing not far behind. They had picked her up on the way to the house so that she didn't have to drive her car. Dawson was still very overprotective, as well as William. "Happy Sunday!" Dixie said. "I brought the rolls!" "Yay ! I love your yeast rolls!" Julie said, taking the covered basket from her hands and giving her a quick kiss on the cheek. Dawson met her in the kitchen and pulled her into a tight hug. "Good morning, beautiful," he said before planting a kiss on the top of her head. Things were getting more serious with them by the day, but Julie had no more qualms about it. She knew exactly the man he was. "Good morning, yourself. Thanks for picking Dixie up." He smiled. "Of course. We couldn't have Sunday dinner without our adoptive mother, could we?" She rose up on her tiptoes and kissed him on the cheek. "No PDA in the kitchen!" William said as he walked in to put down a tray of cupcakes that Dixie had apparently brought also. "PDA isn't so bad," Janine said as she walked up behind him and poked him in the side.
"Why on earth did Dixie bring cupcakes? We already have a pie. There aren't enough people here to eat this many calories!" Julie said with a laugh. Everyone sat down at the table and joined hands to say grace. This was something that had become a tradition, and it reminded Julie of her days growing up with her parents. Grace was an important part of Sunday dinner, and really any meal around at their table. "Dear Lord, we thank you for this food and for everyone sitting around this table. Please help the food to nourish our bodies and keep us all safe. Thank you for your many blessings. Amen.” Dawson was usually the one who said the prayer, and he did a great job at it. "Let's dig in!" Julie said. Everyone started talking and laughing and passing dishes of food around. She was happy to see Dixie in such a good mood. Her medication changes and the adjoining therapy seemed to have stalled at the progress of her disease, and she was back to her old self, cracking jokes and poking fun at everyone. When they were in the middle of their meal, Julie heard someone knock at the door. For a moment, she looked around the table trying to figure out who could be out there. Everybody she knew and loved was sitting with her. "Well, that can't be William and his sour face because he’s sitting right there," Dawson said. William tossed part of a roll at him, nailing him on his arm. "You're going to regret that," Dawson said with a chuckle.
"I'll get it," Julie said. “And don't eat all of those mashed potatoes before I get back!" She opened the door and saw the last person she ever expected to see standing there. "Meg? Oh my gosh! What are you doing here?" Within seconds, Colleen and Janine had run to the door as well, all of them taking turns hugging Julie's youngest daughter. "Hey, everybody!” Meg said, a big smile on her face. Meg had always been her happiest kid, full of enthusiasm for whatever was going on at the time. Her tiny stature did not hide her huge personality. "I'm so happy you're here, honey, but how? What's going on?" Meg smiled. "I was a little jealous seeing my sister with you on social media, so I wanted to join in the fun." "Well, come inside! Join the fun!" Julie said, very uneasy about her daughter’s sudden appearance at her front door. None of this made sense, but she was so happy to have both of her children together in the same room that she didn't want to poke at it too much. Meg walked inside as everyone started introducing themselves. Julie could tell she was a little bit overwhelmed, trying to keep up with all of the names and faces. "I don't understand, sweetie. Are you able to just leave your school just like that?"
“Oh, I took a leave of absence from the program. Maybe I'll go back next school year. I just needed… a break. It was a lot of stress being that far from home." “What about Christian?” Meg’s face dropped a bit. “That didn’t work out.” “Oh, I’m sorry, honey. Well, you are so welcome here. I'm sure Colleen won't mind sharing a room with you again." Colleen smiled. "I guess so. She’s small, so we should be fine." The sisters laughed and hugged each other. Janine glanced at Julie. The two of them both had worried looks on their faces. But if there was one thing Julie had learned, it was to let things unfold slowly before reacting. And right now, that was all she knew to do. Meg stood next to the bed, wishing she could climb in and fall asleep already, but Colleen was still brushing her teeth and making too much noise. It was only ten at night, but she was exhausted from a very long day of traveling. Thankfully, Colleen had work early in the morning and needed to hit the sack too. “Are you going to miss Paris and all of the baguettes?” Colleen asked when she walked back into the room. “The cheese was the best part. I swear I gained five pounds over there.”
Colleen looked at her. “Just five? Are you sure?” Meg glared at her. “Not nice.” “You know I was just joking, sis! You’re still a tiny thing, as always.” “I better hit the bathroom one more time before bed. Are you done in there?” “Yep. I’m going to write in my journal until you come out.” “Okay.” Meg walked into the bathroom and shut the door. She sat down on the closed toilet and took in a deep breath. This was the most stressed out she’d been in a long time, and she had second guessed her decision to come home during every moment of the flight. But, she didn’t know what else to do. She stood up and brushed her long, dark hair. She had done this every night since elementary school. One hundred brush strokes, no more and no less. She turned and looked at the full length mirror on the back of the door and stared into it. Her face was puffy from all the extra tears she’d shed recently, and her cheeks looked chubbier. Maybe that was just from all her beloved cheese. Then, she turned sideways and carefully inspected her whole body. Were her thighs getting bigger? Was that a double chin? She had never been a vain person. This was more about self protection. She needed some time to figure out her next move, and keeping her secret was critical. She put her hands on her lower abdomen and looked down. “I promise I’ll make the best decision for you,” she whispered, a tear rolling down her cheek.
“You coming out?” Colleen called from the other side of the door. Meg wiped away the tear. “Yeah, coming right now,” she said, before opening the door and crawling into bed.
December 26, 2025
Charming seaside romance - ripe with second chances and later in life characters
November 23, 2025
The Best! I do luv this series! You need to read!
April 5, 2025
I read the first book because it was recommended if you like virgin river and sweet magnolias. I like both, so I decided to read it, but it leaves off on a cliff hanger making it necessary to read book 2. This one made it necessary to read book 3. If you like virgin river or sweet magnolias give this a try.
September 6, 2020
This is Book 2 in the wonderful Sunset series.
I truly did not expect to like this book nearly as much as I did. This because I read the synopsis and immediately made an assumption about the character William, Dixie's son. What I'm realizing about this author is that even though these stories are easy enjoyable reads, the subtle surprises continually stimulate the story.
I made an assumption about William prior to his actual arrival on scene. Welp, to my surprise I loved his introduction and truly wished his opening scene was longer.
Yep, ended up really liking William, but the true man of the hour is still Dawson. Dawson has also turned out quite different than I imagined, but obviously in a good way. And the surprise man of the hour, is the return of Julie's ex husband Michael who once again throws Julie's life into complete upheaval.
But I certainly can't exclude Julie's daughters. The oldest Colleen, shows up and adds a whole new dimension - which I quite enjoyed.
Did not expect it, but enjoyed Book 2 even more than Book 1.
I truly did not expect to like this book nearly as much as I did. This because I read the synopsis and immediately made an assumption about the character William, Dixie's son. What I'm realizing about this author is that even though these stories are easy enjoyable reads, the subtle surprises continually stimulate the story.
I made an assumption about William prior to his actual arrival on scene. Welp, to my surprise I loved his introduction and truly wished his opening scene was longer.
Yep, ended up really liking William, but the true man of the hour is still Dawson. Dawson has also turned out quite different than I imagined, but obviously in a good way. And the surprise man of the hour, is the return of Julie's ex husband Michael who once again throws Julie's life into complete upheaval.
But I certainly can't exclude Julie's daughters. The oldest Colleen, shows up and adds a whole new dimension - which I quite enjoyed.
Did not expect it, but enjoyed Book 2 even more than Book 1.
February 4, 2022
This is the 2nd book of 3 short books that make up a series. These were given to me and they are of the romance genre similar to a simple Nicholas Sparks book so if you like him you would probably like this series. I don't think these would stand alone well at all.
I would have preferred this author to put the entire story into one book but since I don't normally buy romance, I guess it doesn't matter anyway.
I will read the entire series in bed to fall asleep too which is saying something for these. I wouldn't bother to finish if they didn't have some value.
I believe these are self published and unedited and truthfully not bad at all considering this.
I seem to find a few errors, typos in everything I read today and nothing really stuck out in these. I have seen some awful work and this was decent for a new author.
I would have preferred this author to put the entire story into one book but since I don't normally buy romance, I guess it doesn't matter anyway.
I will read the entire series in bed to fall asleep too which is saying something for these. I wouldn't bother to finish if they didn't have some value.
I believe these are self published and unedited and truthfully not bad at all considering this.
I seem to find a few errors, typos in everything I read today and nothing really stuck out in these. I have seen some awful work and this was decent for a new author.
January 1, 2025
The series isn’t for everyone so if you are looking for detailed characters with complex storylines this probably isn’t for you. I love the simplicity of the stories in this series and enjoy them for what they are…quick reads with some flare.
May 15, 2025
2.5 stars. I loved the first book of this series & this one just didn’t do it for me! ☹️ it was so surface level with no depth to anything. I wanted to love it but it just seemed too elementary. I do like all of the twists/turns/drama, but that’s really all that it had going for it for me. It pulled me in but I wanted more. Still going to give the 3rd book a try!!
November 20, 2019
This is the 2nd book in a new series by Rachel Hanna. It's a more mature love story and not one that is filled with sex but that doesn't make it any less enjoyable. When reading you feel like you are connected to the characters. Jannie is dealing with the aftermath of trauma and William is dealing with his own internal struggles. I love the way that Rachel Hanna weaves the life stories in and out of the beautiful writing. I am now very interested in seeing what happens with the 2 daughters of Julie - and the ending is just fantastic. A must read!
January 7, 2021
I like this Book 2, I got carried away with Julie's emotion. I can't believe her horrible, insensitive ex-husband and mistress would show up and add more to the injury they've inflicted on Julie. She was wondering how he would go back to Victoria after bailing out on him when he really needed her after the accident but without feeling any remorse Michael said right in front of her face it's because he loves Victoria, what a real jerk! He and his mistress only used Julie to take care of Michael during the difficult time. In a way, this put an end to Julie's guilt on moving on.
May 9, 2020
This series would make a great beach read. Facing new realities with love and laughter.
Of course being from South Carolina, I love the setting. Newly divorced, Julie buys a cottage on the coast unseen. Estranged from her sister, her daughters are miles away, she starts a "new normal.". The story is so well written it pulls you in , so much you end up buying the whole series
Of course being from South Carolina, I love the setting. Newly divorced, Julie buys a cottage on the coast unseen. Estranged from her sister, her daughters are miles away, she starts a "new normal.". The story is so well written it pulls you in , so much you end up buying the whole series
January 26, 2021
COVID Escape
COVID-19 has kept me at home for almost a year now. A book like this one, allows me to escape the world of social distancing and ugly politics for a while. Little girls escape with books of princesses and fairy tales. As a very old girl, I escape to the South Carolina shore.
COVID-19 has kept me at home for almost a year now. A book like this one, allows me to escape the world of social distancing and ugly politics for a while. Little girls escape with books of princesses and fairy tales. As a very old girl, I escape to the South Carolina shore.
September 1, 2022
Book 2 was enjoyable as book 1 in this series. Looking forward to reading more from this series & getting to know the characters better!
January 10, 2023
Sunsets & Second Chances by Rachel Hanna
187-page Kindle Ebook
South Carolina Sunsets #2
Genre: Women's Fiction > Chick Lit; Romance > Contemporary Romance; Family
Featuring: South Carolina, Quadragenarian MC, No Recap, Island Life, Sisters, Mothers, Estrangement, Changes, Southern Cuisine, Cliffhanger, Links to Other Books
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult situations
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
My thoughts: 🔖Page 83 of 187 Ch. 6 - This story starts where the last one left off without explanation. It can easily be read in one sitting but I'm not loving it so I'm going to bed.
This series is like a single book that is broken up into novellas. There are still some issues with inconsistencies even though the stories seem seamless, I'm assuming you read the first book, as you'd be lost without it here: ¹ Dixie's youngest son is just removed from the story as if he wasn't part of their heartbreak, she even refers to William as her only son. I was like what about your younger son? I guess I should have seen it coming since he was unnamed, but he was 23, not 2. ² The girls lack animosity toward their dad and his mistress considering their response in the first book months before. There was a timeline gap, and the ending was so predictable, I saw that coming, but I blame other books it's just so cliché but also what makes this comforting. I'm going to read the next book since I already have it but I don't know if I can read 10 of these. They are short and easy to read but the MC is such a doormat and still has others fighting for her, it gets on my nerves.
Recommend to others?: At this point, maybe if they were looking for something southern and beachy.
187-page Kindle Ebook
South Carolina Sunsets #2
Genre: Women's Fiction > Chick Lit; Romance > Contemporary Romance; Family
Featuring: South Carolina, Quadragenarian MC, No Recap, Island Life, Sisters, Mothers, Estrangement, Changes, Southern Cuisine, Cliffhanger, Links to Other Books
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult situations
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
My thoughts: 🔖Page 83 of 187 Ch. 6 - This story starts where the last one left off without explanation. It can easily be read in one sitting but I'm not loving it so I'm going to bed.
This series is like a single book that is broken up into novellas. There are still some issues with inconsistencies even though the stories seem seamless, I'm assuming you read the first book, as you'd be lost without it here: ¹ Dixie's youngest son is just removed from the story as if he wasn't part of their heartbreak, she even refers to William as her only son. I was like what about your younger son? I guess I should have seen it coming since he was unnamed, but he was 23, not 2. ² The girls lack animosity toward their dad and his mistress considering their response in the first book months before. There was a timeline gap, and the ending was so predictable, I saw that coming, but I blame other books it's just so cliché but also what makes this comforting. I'm going to read the next book since I already have it but I don't know if I can read 10 of these. They are short and easy to read but the MC is such a doormat and still has others fighting for her, it gets on my nerves.
Recommend to others?: At this point, maybe if they were looking for something southern and beachy.
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