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Second Time Around
Who doesn't love a second chance?
When empty nester Mallory Farrell inherits her grandmother's run-down tourist shop in Seaport, Oregon, it seems the only sensible thing to do is to sell it. But when her former secret crush, Grayson Matthews, wants to buy the property in order to complete his plans to redevelop the funky town's business district into a soulless, cookie-cutter outdoor mall, Mallory digs in her heels and decides to renovate the property herself.
With a lot of hard work and a little bit of help, Mallory makes incredible progress turning the store into an eclectic home décor shop called Romancing the Home--all while trying to ignore the depressing and decrepit apartment she's living in on the second floor. When the shop catches the eye of a popular renovation TV show producer, Mallory is thrilled--until it becomes clear that her apartment is to be part of the segment as well.
She's tempted to abandon her dreams and the town under a cloud of shame. But perhaps there's more to Grayson than meets the eye. Can he swallow his pride, change his plans, and help Mallory romance her own home--and possibly her life?
When empty nester Mallory Farrell inherits her grandmother's run-down tourist shop in Seaport, Oregon, it seems the only sensible thing to do is to sell it. But when her former secret crush, Grayson Matthews, wants to buy the property in order to complete his plans to redevelop the funky town's business district into a soulless, cookie-cutter outdoor mall, Mallory digs in her heels and decides to renovate the property herself.
With a lot of hard work and a little bit of help, Mallory makes incredible progress turning the store into an eclectic home décor shop called Romancing the Home--all while trying to ignore the depressing and decrepit apartment she's living in on the second floor. When the shop catches the eye of a popular renovation TV show producer, Mallory is thrilled--until it becomes clear that her apartment is to be part of the segment as well.
She's tempted to abandon her dreams and the town under a cloud of shame. But perhaps there's more to Grayson than meets the eye. Can he swallow his pride, change his plans, and help Mallory romance her own home--and possibly her life?
304 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2023
81 people are currently reading
4931 people want to read
About the author
Melody Carlson
422 books3,272 followersMelody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.
Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 219 reviews
March 7, 2023
Melody Carlson doesn’t disappoint readers of her new novel, Second Time Around. I found it to be entertaining, unpredictable and original. I was totally drawn into the book and loved all the characters and the story line. One thing I really appreciate about Melody Carlson’s books is that they are all clean read. They are inspirational but not preachy. The Author is very knowledgeable in restoring and decorating her own homes she has lived in so she is well researched in home decorating. The books ending leaves readers with a feeling of satisfaction with this well written novel.
When home decorator and designer Mallory Farrell inherits her late Grandma Bess’s tourist shop in Portside Oregon her first thought is to list it with a realtor. After going to Portside to check the shop out she feels the it has the potential to be renovated into a home decoration business . She also meets an old friend from her teen years who is interested in buying her shop for its prime location. If she keeps the shop it would need a lot of work and restoration and a considerable amount of money to invest in this new business. Would the community be interested enough in home decorating and design to make it turn into a profitable venture ? Portside Oregon is a seaside beach tourist attraction and maybe not so much into Mallory’s talents. Could this work for her or would it be best to sell the shop to Grayson Matthews?
I recommend this book to readers of Contemporary Romance and Fans of Melody Carlson. This is a standalone novel . This book is scheduled to be released on 3/7/23.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of Second Time Around . All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
#SecondTimeAround#NetGalley
When home decorator and designer Mallory Farrell inherits her late Grandma Bess’s tourist shop in Portside Oregon her first thought is to list it with a realtor. After going to Portside to check the shop out she feels the it has the potential to be renovated into a home decoration business . She also meets an old friend from her teen years who is interested in buying her shop for its prime location. If she keeps the shop it would need a lot of work and restoration and a considerable amount of money to invest in this new business. Would the community be interested enough in home decorating and design to make it turn into a profitable venture ? Portside Oregon is a seaside beach tourist attraction and maybe not so much into Mallory’s talents. Could this work for her or would it be best to sell the shop to Grayson Matthews?
I recommend this book to readers of Contemporary Romance and Fans of Melody Carlson. This is a standalone novel . This book is scheduled to be released on 3/7/23.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of Second Time Around . All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are my own.
#SecondTimeAround#NetGalley
March 12, 2023
Although I've been a fan of Melody Carlson's books for years, this one disappointed me. It lacked the depth of characterization that I've come to expect from her. In addition, the problems were too easily resolved, and since it was told exclusively from the heroine's POV, I never connected with the hero. For a better Carlson book, I recommend both Looking for Leroy and The Happy Camper.
April 7, 2023
A cute little story
July 15, 2023
This is a really enjoyable book. Clean romance, with Christian undertones.
February 23, 2023
It was fun getting to know the residents of this tranquil seaside community. Second Time Around's plot and characters are both likable, entertaining, and simple to read. I highly recommend.
I would like to thank Revell and NetGalley for the ARC to read and review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I would like to thank Revell and NetGalley for the ARC to read and review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 28, 2023
This sweet contemporary featuring older main characters trying to move on with life and creating a new happiness was sweet and engaging.
Mallory’s positive attitude and personality drew people in, even this reader. It was hard not to like her and I felt like she handled a lot of situations she faced with the maturity her age expected.
I enjoyed the renovation and decorating scenes, though at times I felt there was a bit too much focus on that I would have loved to see more scenes between Mallory and Grayson.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Mallory’s positive attitude and personality drew people in, even this reader. It was hard not to like her and I felt like she handled a lot of situations she faced with the maturity her age expected.
I enjoyed the renovation and decorating scenes, though at times I felt there was a bit too much focus on that I would have loved to see more scenes between Mallory and Grayson.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
March 19, 2023
I enjoy reading a good clean love story and this one had an extra bonus for me because the main characters were middle aged. This was a great story about finding love the second time around - even when you aren't looking for it.
Mallory is an empty-nester whose last child has just gotten married. She raised her children without much help from her husband and she's happy to be on her own. She owns a successful home decorating business but decides to take a vacation to Seaport, Oregon when she finds out that her grandmother has left her a small run-down tourist shop in her will. Her plan is to take a week, check out the property and put it up for sale. On her first day there, she's approached by Grayson, a man that all the girls had a crush on when they were growing up. Grayson was interested in buying the building and she thought it might be a good idea until she found out that he planned to tear it down to build a shopping center. When she realizes that she wants to open a home design shop in the building, she contacts a person to do the needed renovations to the store and the apartment upstairs. When the contractor lets her down and doesn't even start on the apartment, she's too ashamed to admit what had happened and moves into the descript apartment space. When a renovation TV show asks to do a feature story on her shop, she's thrilled until she finds out that they also want to feature the apartment that they assume is completed. She has to make a decision on whether to leave town in shame or call on her new friends to complete the apartment renovation -- if there is even time!
This was a light read and a nice simple romance. It was fun to read about the renovations that were being done and by the end, I had a mental picture of what the shop and apartment looked like. This book had a little bit of everything -- a strong independent woman, conflict from her cousins who thought that grandma should have left the shop to them, new friends and an interesting romance with an old crush. Plus it all takes place in a friendly little town that I think we'd all like to visit.
Mallory is an empty-nester whose last child has just gotten married. She raised her children without much help from her husband and she's happy to be on her own. She owns a successful home decorating business but decides to take a vacation to Seaport, Oregon when she finds out that her grandmother has left her a small run-down tourist shop in her will. Her plan is to take a week, check out the property and put it up for sale. On her first day there, she's approached by Grayson, a man that all the girls had a crush on when they were growing up. Grayson was interested in buying the building and she thought it might be a good idea until she found out that he planned to tear it down to build a shopping center. When she realizes that she wants to open a home design shop in the building, she contacts a person to do the needed renovations to the store and the apartment upstairs. When the contractor lets her down and doesn't even start on the apartment, she's too ashamed to admit what had happened and moves into the descript apartment space. When a renovation TV show asks to do a feature story on her shop, she's thrilled until she finds out that they also want to feature the apartment that they assume is completed. She has to make a decision on whether to leave town in shame or call on her new friends to complete the apartment renovation -- if there is even time!
This was a light read and a nice simple romance. It was fun to read about the renovations that were being done and by the end, I had a mental picture of what the shop and apartment looked like. This book had a little bit of everything -- a strong independent woman, conflict from her cousins who thought that grandma should have left the shop to them, new friends and an interesting romance with an old crush. Plus it all takes place in a friendly little town that I think we'd all like to visit.
March 4, 2023
What a lovely story with all of the good feelings that come with happily ever afters! Mallory Farrell decides to upend her comfortable life when she inherits her grandmother’s tourist shop in a small town in Oregon. She decides to renovate the shop and the apartment above it, open the shop to feature her home design and move to the quaint little town. Once there, she meets mega-rich and super handsome Grayson Matthews, a widower who is not convinced that her business will succeed but he is willing to watch her try. The relationship between these two is puzzling at first as neither of them seemed to have the time to build a relationship together. I loved the interactions between the main characters and the plot that was woven so well around the themes of building and designs. The inspirational themes of redemption and hope were well interwoven into the plot and seemed a natural part of the storyline. With a quick pace, lots of humor, plenty of drama and characters that popped off the page, this is a book that is light-hearted with a deep underlying message that resonated with me. I especially loved the design tips from Mallory and her repartee with Grayson’s assistant Corinna. We could all learn from Mallory’s patience and resilience and her positive attitude in spite of one obstacle after another!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via Netgalley as part of the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell via Netgalley as part of the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
March 22, 2023
When Mallory discovers that she has inherited her grandmother's seaside tourist shop she takes it as a sign to take a leap of faith. The last of her children has flown the coop and marries - and she is eager for a clean slate. Mallory is a designer and the thought of renovating the little shop and apartment above it is exciting and fresh. She decides to sell her beautiful old Victorian and move to Portside to open a home décor shop and interior design business. It's not all smooth sailing though. A developer wants to buy her out and tear it down to be build a mall AND she's having trouble finding contractors to do the work she needs. Has she bitten off more than she can chew? Along the way she reconnects with childhood friends, a former crush, and re-ignites her passion for design. A perfect inspirational read for lovers of HGTV and Hallmark.
March 31, 2023
I have only had the pleasure of reading Melody Carlson's Christmas novellas and I have enjoyed those immensely. This is my first full length novel by her and I thought it was good. As I get older its nice to read about characters that are a bit closer to my age which this book had. Mallory is a single mom of older kids. She is an empty nester and very successful at what she does but she inherits her grandmother's tourist shop and decides to have a new lease in life especially when her old crush is determined to do something completely different should he acquire the building.
I thought the characters were good but they were missing something. The story dragged a little for me at times. I wish there would've been a bigger development between the characters rather than the focus being the renovation and decorating of the new place.
Overall this was a good book. Definitely reminded me of a Hallmark type setting and could definitely see this as a movie. If you enjoy Contemporary Romance with mature characters then this is the story for you.
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
I thought the characters were good but they were missing something. The story dragged a little for me at times. I wish there would've been a bigger development between the characters rather than the focus being the renovation and decorating of the new place.
Overall this was a good book. Definitely reminded me of a Hallmark type setting and could definitely see this as a movie. If you enjoy Contemporary Romance with mature characters then this is the story for you.
I received a copy of this book for review. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 27, 2023
let’s just say i would not have read this if i had seen the “christian fiction” tag on libby
March 29, 2023
Life had dealt Mallory some unexpected curveballs, but she now had the opportunity to start something new, thanks to her grandmother’s generous gift. I was excited for Mallory and admired her fresh passion for life. This is about a second chance romance that is enchanting, sweet, and wholesome.
Everything was going smoothly until it wasn’t. Mallory started to question whether she bit off more than she could chew. Did she rush in? Not rely on God? Should she have done more research on the town and inquired about how quickly jobs could be completed? She had such fond memories of childhood days spent in this lovely Oregon seaport town.
Mallory is working hard to sell her home and renovate the property left to her by her grandmother. Then, unexpectedly, Grayson introduces her to Amy, who wants to showcase her shop on her television show. Can Mallory complete her tasks in time for filming? Is it possible? It would take a miracle.
I liked what Mallory said about the name of her store, “Romancing the Home might not make sense to everyone, but I have this theory that romance is more than most people imagine.”…A quality or feeling of mystery, excitement. Remoteness from everyday life.”
If you like home improvement shows and second chances, you’ll enjoy this story. I liked how the author takes her time developing the plot location, characters, from foes to friends and everything in between. I liked the natural spiritual thread and how the characters changed over time. I love this author books, this one is no exception. It’s a fun escape.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
Everything was going smoothly until it wasn’t. Mallory started to question whether she bit off more than she could chew. Did she rush in? Not rely on God? Should she have done more research on the town and inquired about how quickly jobs could be completed? She had such fond memories of childhood days spent in this lovely Oregon seaport town.
Mallory is working hard to sell her home and renovate the property left to her by her grandmother. Then, unexpectedly, Grayson introduces her to Amy, who wants to showcase her shop on her television show. Can Mallory complete her tasks in time for filming? Is it possible? It would take a miracle.
I liked what Mallory said about the name of her store, “Romancing the Home might not make sense to everyone, but I have this theory that romance is more than most people imagine.”…A quality or feeling of mystery, excitement. Remoteness from everyday life.”
If you like home improvement shows and second chances, you’ll enjoy this story. I liked how the author takes her time developing the plot location, characters, from foes to friends and everything in between. I liked the natural spiritual thread and how the characters changed over time. I love this author books, this one is no exception. It’s a fun escape.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
March 27, 2023
Second Time Around is a slow burn sweet romance with a Hallmark vibe. The characters are older, in their 40’s, with grown children both looking for a second chance at following dreams and finding love. It’s an easy, gentle story that’s perfect for the beach or a stormy day.
Mallory Farrell gets an unexpected gift when she inherits her grandmother’s tourist shop after her passing. Unfortunately, the shop needs a lot of work. She meets an old high school crush who happens to be in construction. At first, the two spar over the shop. He wants to buy it and turn the property into a mall to help the struggling tourist town. As a designer, Mallory wants to use her expertise to turn it into a fashionable home decor shop.
With greedy relatives, a questionable handyman, and a jealous busybody, Mallory has her hands full in trying to renovate the property. It seems there’s one set back after another. When a tv personality offers her the opportunity to feature her shop Romancing the Home on her tv show, Mallory and Grayson must put aside their differences and work together to get the shop including the adjoining decrepit apartment she’s been living in up to snuff. Along the way, could they find love?
If you’re a fan of design and fixer upper shows, you’ll love this. I enjoyed the slow burn romance as Grayson and Mallory go from enemies to friends to more. The name of the shop is darling and I could really picture all the amazing home decor. There are of course some snags along the way and a bit of a mystery element as someone seems out to sabotage Mallory. It’s a cute, sweet romance with a touch of faith that’s perfect for inspirational Hallmark fans. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. 3 1/2 stars raised to 4.
Mallory Farrell gets an unexpected gift when she inherits her grandmother’s tourist shop after her passing. Unfortunately, the shop needs a lot of work. She meets an old high school crush who happens to be in construction. At first, the two spar over the shop. He wants to buy it and turn the property into a mall to help the struggling tourist town. As a designer, Mallory wants to use her expertise to turn it into a fashionable home decor shop.
With greedy relatives, a questionable handyman, and a jealous busybody, Mallory has her hands full in trying to renovate the property. It seems there’s one set back after another. When a tv personality offers her the opportunity to feature her shop Romancing the Home on her tv show, Mallory and Grayson must put aside their differences and work together to get the shop including the adjoining decrepit apartment she’s been living in up to snuff. Along the way, could they find love?
If you’re a fan of design and fixer upper shows, you’ll love this. I enjoyed the slow burn romance as Grayson and Mallory go from enemies to friends to more. The name of the shop is darling and I could really picture all the amazing home decor. There are of course some snags along the way and a bit of a mystery element as someone seems out to sabotage Mallory. It’s a cute, sweet romance with a touch of faith that’s perfect for inspirational Hallmark fans. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review. 3 1/2 stars raised to 4.
March 27, 2023
I love a second chance story, so I was drawn to this book as soon as I read the title. A charming setting by the sea earned extra points. And I’ve enjoyed previous stories by the author, so I was sold.
Second Time Around is a unique story in that it features characters who are just a little older than the usual protagonist. Mallory is middle aged and finds herself making unexpected changes during her debut into the empty-nester stage of her life. I enjoyed seeing her relationship grow with Grayson and admired her resilience and drive to follow a dream.
This is a story of second chances, hope, and following life’s paths where they lead. The story flows well with a slow-burn romance and lots of life’s lessons. An enjoyable read.
First Line: Everyone moves on.
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
Author: Melody Carlson
Page Count: 304
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
Second Time Around is a unique story in that it features characters who are just a little older than the usual protagonist. Mallory is middle aged and finds herself making unexpected changes during her debut into the empty-nester stage of her life. I enjoyed seeing her relationship grow with Grayson and admired her resilience and drive to follow a dream.
This is a story of second chances, hope, and following life’s paths where they lead. The story flows well with a slow-burn romance and lots of life’s lessons. An enjoyable read.
First Line: Everyone moves on.
Genre: Christian Contemporary Romance
Author: Melody Carlson
Page Count: 304
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
April 17, 2023
4.75 stars
Second Time Around, by Melody Carlson, is a new favorite and this author is now an auto-buy author for me. Her stories are everything I want in a story: engaging, uplifting, and heart-warming with realistic characters and a positive, impactful message.
I love the characters that Melody Carlson crafts and that her female protagonists are often middle aged women, as opposed to young adults, like so many modern novels. The characters are flawed and human, but also likable and inspiring. Their life situations are realistic, but also hopeful. Her romances are clean and aspirational, with an added faith component that manages to be authentic without being heavy-handed. I also enjoyed the apartment and store renovation content in this particular story, even though it’s not usually a particular interest of mine. It’s written in an interesting and engaging manner.
There were a few points that became a bit repetitive and seemed over-emphasized, and the main male character was surprisingly naive on the romantic awareness front. Regardless, this is a well-written, entertaining, feel-good story that will leave you satisfied and optimistic.
Second Time Around, by Melody Carlson, is a new favorite and this author is now an auto-buy author for me. Her stories are everything I want in a story: engaging, uplifting, and heart-warming with realistic characters and a positive, impactful message.
I love the characters that Melody Carlson crafts and that her female protagonists are often middle aged women, as opposed to young adults, like so many modern novels. The characters are flawed and human, but also likable and inspiring. Their life situations are realistic, but also hopeful. Her romances are clean and aspirational, with an added faith component that manages to be authentic without being heavy-handed. I also enjoyed the apartment and store renovation content in this particular story, even though it’s not usually a particular interest of mine. It’s written in an interesting and engaging manner.
There were a few points that became a bit repetitive and seemed over-emphasized, and the main male character was surprisingly naive on the romantic awareness front. Regardless, this is a well-written, entertaining, feel-good story that will leave you satisfied and optimistic.
April 7, 2023
I always enjoy one of Melody’s romance stories. They are always light and fun, perfect for when you’ve had a stressful day and need to unwind with a fun read. This story was interesting with all the issues Mallory gets into trying to redo her Grandmothers shop and apartment so she can open a new business and live above it. As someone who just got back into her home after 5 weeks due to a home reno project of our own-this story hit a bit close to home at times. I can honestly say that made Mallory’s issues all the more real to me! Good read!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
January 19, 2023
Melody Carlson writes such fun books, that any time one of hers comes up on my potential reading list, I jump at the chance to read it. This fits that exact mold of being a fun read!
Mallory has inherited her grandmother's tourist shop and thinks about selling it until she finds that the buyer wants to tear it down and build a strip mall. That's something Mallory can't abide. The fly in the ointment is that the buyer, who is also a contractor, is Mallory's high school crush.
This book has all kinds of characters: the entitled people, clueless men, the supportive people, the unhinged people, and the true friends. Some of the funniest characters are Mallory's Aunt Cindy and cousins Valerie and Marie. They just KNOW that Granny meant for them to have the shop and that Mallory usurped it from them. When Mallory details all the repairs that needed to be done and at what cost, they slink away saying that Mallory can keep the shop.
Melody has such a unique writing style that brings the readers into the world she is creating through her words and makes them feel at home. With the undertones of this book being about home design and décor, the readers are doubly comfortable while reading this book.
The setting of the quaint coastal town and the also quaint tourist shop are only enhancers to the novel. Readers can easily imagine themselves in the thick of the action and enjoying the town's amenities.
This is a five star book with two thumbs up and a multicolored apartment to refurbish.
Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
Mallory has inherited her grandmother's tourist shop and thinks about selling it until she finds that the buyer wants to tear it down and build a strip mall. That's something Mallory can't abide. The fly in the ointment is that the buyer, who is also a contractor, is Mallory's high school crush.
This book has all kinds of characters: the entitled people, clueless men, the supportive people, the unhinged people, and the true friends. Some of the funniest characters are Mallory's Aunt Cindy and cousins Valerie and Marie. They just KNOW that Granny meant for them to have the shop and that Mallory usurped it from them. When Mallory details all the repairs that needed to be done and at what cost, they slink away saying that Mallory can keep the shop.
Melody has such a unique writing style that brings the readers into the world she is creating through her words and makes them feel at home. With the undertones of this book being about home design and décor, the readers are doubly comfortable while reading this book.
The setting of the quaint coastal town and the also quaint tourist shop are only enhancers to the novel. Readers can easily imagine themselves in the thick of the action and enjoying the town's amenities.
This is a five star book with two thumbs up and a multicolored apartment to refurbish.
Revell Publishing provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 12, 2023
I always really enjoy Carlson's books. This one was fun one and I loved the fun characters and the small-town setting. The romance was a little bit drawn out and took a while to form but the ending was worth it.
4- stars and I recommend this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
4- stars and I recommend this one.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
January 15, 2023
Mallory returns from her daughter’s wedding to a big empty house and very busy business. When she received new of inheriting her grandmother’s shop in a small town in coastal Oregon, she decides to take a week’s vacation and get the property taken care of. Grayson Matthews offers to buy her place, but she decides to revive a dream of hers. We also meet her 3 kids, Louisa, Micah and Seth, Grayson’s daughter Lindsey, Sandi, Corrina, Caroline, Thomas, Kara, Amy and a few others. Fun story, following the progress in the renovated store, and developing friendships. A beach story is always a plus.
A complimentary copy was provided by Revell. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
A complimentary copy was provided by Revell. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 20, 2023
I became so caught up in this book that I read it one day. I had to know how empty nester Mallory Farrell would turn her grandmother’s rundown tourist shop in a small seaside town into the upscale shop of her dreams when most everyone town was doubtful, she could make it successful.
Mallory has a lot to contend with and of course there’s another unexpected fly in the ointment when she discovers her former secret crush, Grayson Matthews wants to buy the property for his outdoor mall, which isn’t a good fit for the towns aesthetic. I admired how hard she worked to make her dreams come true while trying to make the best of her ramshackle apartment, her greedy relatives and the knowledge that being featured on a home improvement show would include showing the disrepair and shame of living in the apartment. Grayson and his crew will be needed to come to her rescue to save her and their town from embarrassment.
Overall, I thought this was one of the best contemporary fiction novels that I have read. A wonderful plot, well developed characters and fantastic writing of Ms. Carlson made for a delightful read.
My thanks to the publisher for the Netgalley copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Mallory has a lot to contend with and of course there’s another unexpected fly in the ointment when she discovers her former secret crush, Grayson Matthews wants to buy the property for his outdoor mall, which isn’t a good fit for the towns aesthetic. I admired how hard she worked to make her dreams come true while trying to make the best of her ramshackle apartment, her greedy relatives and the knowledge that being featured on a home improvement show would include showing the disrepair and shame of living in the apartment. Grayson and his crew will be needed to come to her rescue to save her and their town from embarrassment.
Overall, I thought this was one of the best contemporary fiction novels that I have read. A wonderful plot, well developed characters and fantastic writing of Ms. Carlson made for a delightful read.
My thanks to the publisher for the Netgalley copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
March 29, 2023
Mallory Farrell inherits her grandmother's tourist shop and bites off more than she thought. Moving to Portside, she decides to remodel the shop and upstairs apartment but things don't go as planned. With a television crew coming to film the shop, she is racing against the clock. Grayson Matthews, a contractor and one who has the towns best interests at heart has past memories to deal with.
The characters are well-developed with layers of vulnerability. The quaint seaside town descriptions bring the story to life. The storyline ia about relationships, starting over, and second chances. The ending wrapped everything up nicely and there were some suspenseful moments as well as building tension that kept me engaged in the story. I thoroughly enjoyed the humor of the main characters.
Another great read from the author and highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and voluntarily choose to review it.
The characters are well-developed with layers of vulnerability. The quaint seaside town descriptions bring the story to life. The storyline ia about relationships, starting over, and second chances. The ending wrapped everything up nicely and there were some suspenseful moments as well as building tension that kept me engaged in the story. I thoroughly enjoyed the humor of the main characters.
Another great read from the author and highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and voluntarily choose to review it.
March 25, 2023
I make sure to start every Christmas season by reading a Melody Carlson holiday book. This is the first non-holiday book of hers that I have read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. As an older woman, I really like reading stories about women who start a new life at an older age. This book had it all for me – a strong female main character, believable supporting characters, a great setting, and a plot that kept moving. It is a book about an interior designer who finds herself living alone in the large family house and decides to change her life by selling the house, moving to the seaside, and opening a store. The whole idea of being a shop keeper is new to her, but since the shop is based around home decorating (she calls it “romancing”) and she does still consult as a designer on the side, it is a risk she feels she can take. There is a little mystery, a little romance – all in all a good book!
March 31, 2023
I start every Christmas season reading a Melody Carlson Christmas book and have loved everyone I've read. This is my first non-Christmas book of hers and I enjoyed it! This is a book about an interior designer who finds herself living alone in the large family house and decides to change her life by selling the house, moving to the seaside, and renovates her grandma's seaside shop. I really enjoyed our main character, Mallory. She had such a positive attitude, and her personality definitely drew me in, it was hard not to like her. I really loved the renovation and decorating scenes as well, more than the romance. I am not an avid reader of contemporary romance but this one I did thoroughly enjoy!
January 20, 2023
Melody Carlson is fast becoming my favorite author writing older, empty nest characters who reinvent themselves. I loved Carlson's take on tiny house living in Home Sweet Tiny Home, but she's outdone herself in Second Time Around. 5 fabulous stars!
Mallory Farrell inherits her beloved grandmother's seaside souvenir shop in Seaport, Oregon much to her aunt and cousin's chagrin. She spent her childhood summers with her grandmother there and has fond memories of the town and the friends she made including her crush, Grayson Matthews. Beachside settings are always a good choice, and it couldn't have been a more perfect setting for this story.
I love how Mallory uses her skill as a designer to turn the touristy shop into a charming home decor shop called Romancing the Home. The apartment upstairs is another matter and it's going to take a miracle to pull off that renovation. I loved the quote Carlson came up with to define the feeling Mallory's shop wants to foster,
"Romance: A quality or feeling of mystery, excitement. remoteness from everyday life."
There's a host of interesting characters and I enjoyed the variety, friends and rivals alike. Second Time Around checked all the boxes for what I look for in a good story, and I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish. I appreciate Revell Publishers making a copy of Second Time Around available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.
Mallory Farrell inherits her beloved grandmother's seaside souvenir shop in Seaport, Oregon much to her aunt and cousin's chagrin. She spent her childhood summers with her grandmother there and has fond memories of the town and the friends she made including her crush, Grayson Matthews. Beachside settings are always a good choice, and it couldn't have been a more perfect setting for this story.
I love how Mallory uses her skill as a designer to turn the touristy shop into a charming home decor shop called Romancing the Home. The apartment upstairs is another matter and it's going to take a miracle to pull off that renovation. I loved the quote Carlson came up with to define the feeling Mallory's shop wants to foster,
"Romance: A quality or feeling of mystery, excitement. remoteness from everyday life."
There's a host of interesting characters and I enjoyed the variety, friends and rivals alike. Second Time Around checked all the boxes for what I look for in a good story, and I was thoroughly entertained from start to finish. I appreciate Revell Publishers making a copy of Second Time Around available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.
April 1, 2023
Second Time Around by Melody Carlson is like a nice glass of lemonade on a warm summer afternoon; completely refreshing and satisfying. The story is a clean romance with just the right amount of faith woven in. The characters were likable and I was in Mallory's cheering section throughout the book. Although at times I wished she would have made a move or been a little bit more brave when it came to her romantic relationship. I fell in love with the town of Seaport and all of the friends and community members there. It felt like a real place that I would want to go and visit. Grayson was the perfect male lead, I think all the females would be swooning over such a kindhearted and handsome guy. Second Time Around is an easy read. It is one of those stories you don't have to work to get into, you just fall into it and don't come out until you are done reading it. I would definitely recommend this to fans of contemporary Christian fiction and clean romance! I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 9, 2023
Mallory decides to remodel the tourist shop that her grandmother left her. She has done what she can to make it a great store and is thrilled when she gets a chance to be a part of a TV show to help make the store even better. She is unsure though if she still wants to be a part of it once she learns all the details. She also still has someone wanting the property and has to work out the hard decisions to decide what is best for her all around.
April 13, 2023
Thanks to Revell, a division of Baker Publishing, sending me this book to read and review. This book is my third read of this author’s. I really enjoyed The Happy Camper and Looking for Leroy. This was an OK read. A little to contrived. The premise was a little to unbelievable. Home designer inherits aunt’s tourist shop in ocean side town. She decides to start over her life… hence second chance. She remodels and reinvents her aunt’s store and 2nd floor apartment. Reopens the store as a home decor store and starts “romancing the home” for her new community. Romance occurs in other areas than just the homes.
March 11, 2023
This book is part slow burn romance, part inspirational Hallmark (in the best way), and an all-around fun story about second chances, starting over, and achieving your dreams. I liked that the main characters are in their 40’s, celebrating grey hair and their grown children. I also liked the small town and beach setting of Portside, Oregon. It reminded me of a cozy mystery with the quirky town, cute business district and at least one nosy neighbor. I really enjoyed this book and finished it in one day. I hope to read more of the author’s backlist titles.
I received an ebook from the publisher via NetGalley. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.
I received an ebook from the publisher via NetGalley. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.
January 16, 2024
A story about a woman starting the next chapter of her life after her youngest is married. She moves to a small town where she has inherited a store. She decides to open her own home store. The story was an easy read.
July 9, 2024
I have read several novels by this author, which I usually enjoy. This story seemed more like predictable chick-lit. The narration was in keeping with a cutesy romance. I will try another novel by the author. I often enjoy her unusual storylines with quirky characters.
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