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Heroes of Freedom Ridge #14
Second Chance with the Hero
Two high school sweethearts. One broken marriage. And an unexpected reunion that offers the perfect opportunity for redemption. Retired midwife Josephine Gilbert is all about her children and grandchildren these days. That’s why she’s moved back to Freedom to be close to her loved ones and to help with her daughter’s upcoming delivery. The last thing she expects is to fall ill and need emergency surgery. What’s worse, the person who offers to help with her recovery is none other than her ex-husband, the man who left her a single mom twenty years ago. Jack Gilbert spent the last two decades working as a medic on an oil rig, a job that provided him with the financial security he himself never had but so desperately wanted to give his family. The only downfall of that decision was losing the only woman he’s ever loved. When given the chance to care for Josephine, he rushes back without a second thought. It may take a miracle though for him to convince her to accept his help. With the support of their family, can this estranged couple let go of their past and give their love a second chance? Return to Freedom, Colorado and enjoy the faith, friendships, and forever-afters of the Heroes of Freedom Ridge in this Christian Christmas romance. Second Chance with the Hero is book 14 in the Heroes of Freedom Ridge series, but each of the books can be read on their own.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2022
429 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
Liwen Y. Ho
96 books334 followersUSA Today bestselling author Liwen Y. Ho works as a chauffeur and chef by day (AKA a stay at home mom) and a writer by night. Her strength is in creating character-driven, deep POV romance infused with faith, humor, and happy ever afters.
In her pre-author life, she received a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Western Seminary. She loves makeovers of all kinds, especially those of the heart and mind. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her techie husband and their two children (AKA munchkins).
Sign up for Liwen's newsletter for news about her upcoming releases, book giveaways and more at http://liwenho.com/free-book!
In her pre-author life, she received a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Western Seminary. She loves makeovers of all kinds, especially those of the heart and mind. She lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her techie husband and their two children (AKA munchkins).
Sign up for Liwen's newsletter for news about her upcoming releases, book giveaways and more at http://liwenho.com/free-book!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
October 7, 2022
Josephine and Jack’s story was so real and engaging. I loved their responses to the obstacles they faced, and their coming together was so sweet. I love second chance romances, and this one was fantastic.
October 5, 2022
4.5⭐️What a beautiful story!
I don’t usually read Christmas stories until closer to the holidays, but I received an ARC of this one, and the plot drew me in. This was a lighter read, but is by no means shallow. I loved that the couple is older with real life struggles.
This is fiction, but I have seen the Lord heal broken marriage before. Jesus tells us that divorce wasn’t ever God’s original plan, and that marriage is to be a picture of Christ and His church…Watching Jack and Josephine grow in their faith in the Lord and heal in their relationship, well it was a beautiful story.
(These opinions are my own, and I was not required to give a positive review❤️)
I don’t usually read Christmas stories until closer to the holidays, but I received an ARC of this one, and the plot drew me in. This was a lighter read, but is by no means shallow. I loved that the couple is older with real life struggles.
This is fiction, but I have seen the Lord heal broken marriage before. Jesus tells us that divorce wasn’t ever God’s original plan, and that marriage is to be a picture of Christ and His church…Watching Jack and Josephine grow in their faith in the Lord and heal in their relationship, well it was a beautiful story.
(These opinions are my own, and I was not required to give a positive review❤️)
November 2, 2022
"'That's what mistakes are for, to learn from. And trusting in God to redeem them.'"
Josie has been ignoring a health issue that is slowly being pushed to the forefront. When she is faced with her own mortality, she asks God for a chance to talk to her ex-husband. Jack is a medic on an oil rig, and has changed and grown over the time that he and Josie have been divorced. When their daughter lets him know that Josie is facing a serious health issue, he drops everything to be there for her and their family. Can they find a way to forgive each other, and possibly move forward together?
I loved this wonderful story! This author has been a new discovery for me this year, and I enjoy every opportunity to read one of her books! She does a wonderful job of creating characters you can relate to, and stories that come to life. She also does a great job of weaving inspirational truths into each story. I loved watching Josie and Jack's journey and seeing their growth. Their family was so sweet, and their friends were delightful! It makes me want to check out the rest of this series!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Josie has been ignoring a health issue that is slowly being pushed to the forefront. When she is faced with her own mortality, she asks God for a chance to talk to her ex-husband. Jack is a medic on an oil rig, and has changed and grown over the time that he and Josie have been divorced. When their daughter lets him know that Josie is facing a serious health issue, he drops everything to be there for her and their family. Can they find a way to forgive each other, and possibly move forward together?
I loved this wonderful story! This author has been a new discovery for me this year, and I enjoy every opportunity to read one of her books! She does a wonderful job of creating characters you can relate to, and stories that come to life. She also does a great job of weaving inspirational truths into each story. I loved watching Josie and Jack's journey and seeing their growth. Their family was so sweet, and their friends were delightful! It makes me want to check out the rest of this series!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 4, 2022
Jack and Josephine fell in love in high school, married and had children, but divorced. They both dealt with their own fears but didn’t voice them and went their separate ways. She retired and moved to be near her children. Due to a health scare, Jack came back to help. Could they learn to finally communicate effectively and lean on God for direction to their lives? Inspiring story of how God is always right on time and following Him, rather than themselves, leads to better outcomes. Great loving and relatable characters made this a wonderful read.
Received ARC and this is my honest review.
Received ARC and this is my honest review.
October 4, 2022
I always enjoy this author. This multi-author series is fantastic! They each can be read as a stand alone but it is so fun to read each one and see the characters interact in each book. I don't like to tell the details of a story. No spoilers from me.
This one had my heart in the first chapter...I knew it was going to be a heart warming one. The second chapter sealed the deal. I was ready to get to the story. There are some ups and downs and tense moments. There is forgiveness and listening to God directing their paths. There were insecurities to overcome. The ending was very heart warming. You won't go wrong with this one! Clean and no bad language.
This one had my heart in the first chapter...I knew it was going to be a heart warming one. The second chapter sealed the deal. I was ready to get to the story. There are some ups and downs and tense moments. There is forgiveness and listening to God directing their paths. There were insecurities to overcome. The ending was very heart warming. You won't go wrong with this one! Clean and no bad language.
October 4, 2022
This is my voluntary review of a copy I received from the author.
Great story, great characters!
The main characters' young marriage ended when they couldn't communicate and, unknowingly, made each other's deepest fears a reality. With a second chance to grow old together, will they make the same mistake?
Great story, great characters!
The main characters' young marriage ended when they couldn't communicate and, unknowingly, made each other's deepest fears a reality. With a second chance to grow old together, will they make the same mistake?
October 16, 2022
This is a well written second chance romance between Josephine and Jack. Once high school sweethearts , then married, things didn't work out and they divorced. Will a health scare bring them back together? Will they risk a second chance? Is forgiveness possible? This is their story. The author does a wonderful job building their story and paints her scenes beautifully. I loved reading and would recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
October 10, 2022
“Two high school sweethearts. One broken marriage. And an unexpected reunion that offers the perfect opportunity for redemption” (From the blurb).
I received Second Chance with a Hero from the author via Book Funnel. I always enjoy Liwen Y. Ho’s writing. Whether she is writing Rom-Coms or contemporary romance Liwen is an intuitive and inspirational writer.
Second Chance with a Hero is the 14th book of a multi-author series, Heroes of Freedom Ridge. It can be read as a standalone. Even though characters from previous books appear in this book, you won’t get lost without having read them in order. Having said that, I am going to read more of this series. There is just such an array of talented authors, that I don’t want to miss any of them.
Liwen has a gift for writing real people and real relationships in believable, if somewhat fractured, situations. That gift is in perfect working order in this book. And she makes it clear that the only solution to the fractures in those relationships is God’s love. Only He can point them in the right direction and heal a broken marriage. This truth shows up in other books I have read by Liwen Y. Ho. And it always speaks to my heart. Because we all have fractured lives and relationships. Reading this book was a fresh reminder that God “works all things together for good”. Not just in books, but in my life, too.
Jack and Josephine were High School sweethearts and best friends. They eloped right out of high school. But Jack needed the financial security he never had as a kid. Being a medic on an oil rig seemed to give him that security. But Jack’s security took away the security of someone who loved her that Josephine had never gotten from her parents. So, they divorced because neither could communicate what they needed in the marriage.
They were divorced for 20 years, but God did not waste those years. Both of them learned and changed. Jack was drawn back to God. Josephine learned forgiveness. And that God’s love was the real love that she needed. God used those wilderness years for good. When their daughter called her dad in a panic because Josephine had been diagnosed with an aneurism, Jack booked the next flight to Freedom Ridge and came to help Josephine.
And that’s all I’m going to tell you. You will need to read the book to find out more. But not just to find out what happens, but because it is a wonderful, feel-good, smile on your face book.
I received Second Chance with a Hero from the author via Book Funnel. I always enjoy Liwen Y. Ho’s writing. Whether she is writing Rom-Coms or contemporary romance Liwen is an intuitive and inspirational writer.
Second Chance with a Hero is the 14th book of a multi-author series, Heroes of Freedom Ridge. It can be read as a standalone. Even though characters from previous books appear in this book, you won’t get lost without having read them in order. Having said that, I am going to read more of this series. There is just such an array of talented authors, that I don’t want to miss any of them.
Liwen has a gift for writing real people and real relationships in believable, if somewhat fractured, situations. That gift is in perfect working order in this book. And she makes it clear that the only solution to the fractures in those relationships is God’s love. Only He can point them in the right direction and heal a broken marriage. This truth shows up in other books I have read by Liwen Y. Ho. And it always speaks to my heart. Because we all have fractured lives and relationships. Reading this book was a fresh reminder that God “works all things together for good”. Not just in books, but in my life, too.
Jack and Josephine were High School sweethearts and best friends. They eloped right out of high school. But Jack needed the financial security he never had as a kid. Being a medic on an oil rig seemed to give him that security. But Jack’s security took away the security of someone who loved her that Josephine had never gotten from her parents. So, they divorced because neither could communicate what they needed in the marriage.
They were divorced for 20 years, but God did not waste those years. Both of them learned and changed. Jack was drawn back to God. Josephine learned forgiveness. And that God’s love was the real love that she needed. God used those wilderness years for good. When their daughter called her dad in a panic because Josephine had been diagnosed with an aneurism, Jack booked the next flight to Freedom Ridge and came to help Josephine.
And that’s all I’m going to tell you. You will need to read the book to find out more. But not just to find out what happens, but because it is a wonderful, feel-good, smile on your face book.
October 12, 2022
Reader’s Notes:
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Josephine & Jack’s points of view
Review:
Had my body not wanted me to actually sleep, I likely would have finished this story in one night! I loved Josephine & Jack’s second chance love story 😍. And oddly enough it was the second one I’ve read recently that featured a couple who used to be married (the other one was Forget Me Twice by Carina Taylor)! Jack was such a sweetheart who loved to show Josephine how much she meant to him. Though Josephine was hesitant to let him back in, I loved that she wondered about his past habits/things he liked and if they still pertained to the person in front of her. I loved that their family and friends were rooting for them to get back together and weren’t trying to be subtle about it. Some of my other favorite things about this story included: Jack’s child-like appreciation for things, Jack holding Josephine and helping her, the grandkids, the faith aspects of the story (especially the lesson learned), and the overall wintery feel of the story.
Summary:
Josephine has moved back to Freedom Ridge in order to spend more time with her kids and grandkids. But her health throws all her plans out of whack. An emergency surgery leaves Josephine with needing to take things easy and has her going to physical therapy in order to get her body back in complete working order. She doesn’t want to be a burden for her kids who already have their hands full so she turns to her only option: Jack. The same man who broke her heart, divorced her, and made her a single mom about twenty years before…
Jack regrets his decision that left him without the love of his life in his life. So when he gets a call from his child saying their mom is in the hospital, Jack rushes to meet them there all the way from the rig he had been stationed on. He needs to be sure that his Josephine is alright and see if there’s a chance he can make amends for the past. When God provides a way in the form of caring for Josephine while she recuperates, Jack is grateful and plans to make the most of his time with her. Can she forgive him for the past and want a future with him once more?
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Josephine & Jack’s points of view
Review:
Had my body not wanted me to actually sleep, I likely would have finished this story in one night! I loved Josephine & Jack’s second chance love story 😍. And oddly enough it was the second one I’ve read recently that featured a couple who used to be married (the other one was Forget Me Twice by Carina Taylor)! Jack was such a sweetheart who loved to show Josephine how much she meant to him. Though Josephine was hesitant to let him back in, I loved that she wondered about his past habits/things he liked and if they still pertained to the person in front of her. I loved that their family and friends were rooting for them to get back together and weren’t trying to be subtle about it. Some of my other favorite things about this story included: Jack’s child-like appreciation for things, Jack holding Josephine and helping her, the grandkids, the faith aspects of the story (especially the lesson learned), and the overall wintery feel of the story.
Summary:
Josephine has moved back to Freedom Ridge in order to spend more time with her kids and grandkids. But her health throws all her plans out of whack. An emergency surgery leaves Josephine with needing to take things easy and has her going to physical therapy in order to get her body back in complete working order. She doesn’t want to be a burden for her kids who already have their hands full so she turns to her only option: Jack. The same man who broke her heart, divorced her, and made her a single mom about twenty years before…
Jack regrets his decision that left him without the love of his life in his life. So when he gets a call from his child saying their mom is in the hospital, Jack rushes to meet them there all the way from the rig he had been stationed on. He needs to be sure that his Josephine is alright and see if there’s a chance he can make amends for the past. When God provides a way in the form of caring for Josephine while she recuperates, Jack is grateful and plans to make the most of his time with her. Can she forgive him for the past and want a future with him once more?
October 10, 2022
Thought Provoking … all choices have consequences
Second chances aren’t as easy as many romance books make them sound. So what makes this one different? It’s more in tune with real life. The characters have choices to make and all choices have consequences … good and bad. Some choices take ‘guts’ as Jack finds out. They also require communication, talking to each other, letting each other know how you feel and why.
Jack and Josephine have known each other a loooong time. After all they were high school sweethearts. It mattered not to them that their family backgrounds were different. They were in love, eloped and married for 20 years. But as things got rough, the pressure built up and their marriage went south. Divorce always is hard but that’s what happened.
Twenty years may have passed since the divorce but it’s hard to forget the one you loved so dearly for so long. Circumstances bring them back together. Neither have forgotten each other, neither wanted to forget. But how do you mend a broken heart? How do you rebuild trust?
And remember those choices I talked about above? Well, another BIG choice must be made and this choice can very well be the deciding factor for Jack and Josephine. Why both when it’s one who must make the choice? Well, all choices always affect others.
🤔 OBSERVATIONS…
✒︎ I love how this book tackles real problems and shows real emotions… and real consequences of choices. I love how it shows the importance of communication.
✒︎ There was a lot I LOVED about this book but first and foremost was how it was written. It’s clean. It doesn’t use gaudy intimate scenes to fill pages. It stays on the plot and keeps the pages turning.
✒︎ Another thing very important for me was how this book used scripture to show how help is available IF wanted and sought.
✒︎ This book makes one think not just react. We all make choices in life. Maybe it’s time to think before we jump.
I was given an advance review copy of this book and am leaving my honest, personal opinions and thoughts.
Second chances aren’t as easy as many romance books make them sound. So what makes this one different? It’s more in tune with real life. The characters have choices to make and all choices have consequences … good and bad. Some choices take ‘guts’ as Jack finds out. They also require communication, talking to each other, letting each other know how you feel and why.
Jack and Josephine have known each other a loooong time. After all they were high school sweethearts. It mattered not to them that their family backgrounds were different. They were in love, eloped and married for 20 years. But as things got rough, the pressure built up and their marriage went south. Divorce always is hard but that’s what happened.
Twenty years may have passed since the divorce but it’s hard to forget the one you loved so dearly for so long. Circumstances bring them back together. Neither have forgotten each other, neither wanted to forget. But how do you mend a broken heart? How do you rebuild trust?
And remember those choices I talked about above? Well, another BIG choice must be made and this choice can very well be the deciding factor for Jack and Josephine. Why both when it’s one who must make the choice? Well, all choices always affect others.
🤔 OBSERVATIONS…
✒︎ I love how this book tackles real problems and shows real emotions… and real consequences of choices. I love how it shows the importance of communication.
✒︎ There was a lot I LOVED about this book but first and foremost was how it was written. It’s clean. It doesn’t use gaudy intimate scenes to fill pages. It stays on the plot and keeps the pages turning.
✒︎ Another thing very important for me was how this book used scripture to show how help is available IF wanted and sought.
✒︎ This book makes one think not just react. We all make choices in life. Maybe it’s time to think before we jump.
I was given an advance review copy of this book and am leaving my honest, personal opinions and thoughts.
October 11, 2022
This was such a wonderful inspirational romance written by the talented Liwen Y. Ho. This book is a part of a series known as the Heroes of Freedom Ridge written by multiple authors. Jack and Josephine were made for each other, but they have been divorced for a long time. Obviously since neither remarried, they still had feelings for the other one. When Josephine has a complicated health issue, Jack knows it is time to come home. This was definitely a second chance romance. The characters were so real to me as the reader. Liwen Y. Ho has a true talent for making her fictional characters more like someone next door than a fictional character. I feel that I could actually relate to both of these characters. The inspirational message was touching as both Jack and Josephine realized that they could not do this on their own. They had to lean heavily on their faith. They had to put the past behind them and slam and lock the door on past mistakes. This was a clean and wholesome romance. I actually got a little teary eyed in a couple of scenes. If I could sum up one sentence or phrase that best describes this story, it would be home is where the heart is! I also enjoyed the fact that this story was set at a Christmas which makes the romance even more magical.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 7, 2022
I absolutely LOVE this book!! Josephine and Jack eloped and married after high school. Twenty years later, they divorced. When Josephine is diagnosed with something that could be life-threatening, Jack knows he has to go home to Freedom Ridge. He's been praying for a second chance, and doesn't want to take a chance that Josephine won't survive. After all, he's loved her for years, and even though they divorced, he loves her still. Josephine, at first, doesn't want Jack around, but then she realizes this could be her chance to get this right. After all, he's her first and only love. As these two reconnect, everyone around them can see the love they have for each other. As they work to overcome what tore them apart, will they make this second chance last??? I love how Ms. Ho shows that just because you're older, you don't know everything and still need to rely on God, His leading, and His timing!! I LOVE that these characters are older, because older doesn't mean one foot in the grave and the other on a banana peel!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.
October 10, 2022
Nearly four decades ago, Jack and Josephine Gilbert were high school sweethearts who were deeply in love and eloped. However, the stresses of life began to erode their marriage, and their inability to communicate eventually ended in divorce after nearly 20 years. Now, 20 years after the divorce, a nearly catastrophic medical event brings Jack back home. He and Josephine have deeply regretted their breakup and have been thinking about each other. When it seems like things might work out, Jack lands in a situation where he must make a difficult decision. Will he finally be able to put the past where it belongs and accept this second chance to reunite with the only woman with whom he wants to spend the rest of his life? How will Josephine react to this circumstance?
I absolutely loved this latest book in The Heroes of Freedom Ridge series. Ms. Ho has written a beautiful, poignant story of overcoming obstacles in life, forgiveness, love, and reconciliation. There are lessons to be learned from reading this book which I highly recommend. I received an ARC; the opinions expressed are strictly my own.
I absolutely loved this latest book in The Heroes of Freedom Ridge series. Ms. Ho has written a beautiful, poignant story of overcoming obstacles in life, forgiveness, love, and reconciliation. There are lessons to be learned from reading this book which I highly recommend. I received an ARC; the opinions expressed are strictly my own.
October 9, 2022
Josephine and Jack had been high school sweethearts. She came from money and his family had financial struggles but they fell in love and married and somewhere along the journey they lost their way. Now it is twenty years later, a divorce between them and both are back in Freedom Ridge, Colorado. Both want a second chance but both are scared to admit it because that opens up their vulnerabilities again.
After a health scare, they both realized what was most important and let God lead their paths more generously. Would it be possible to bridge the gap that was so wide that it divided them before? Was it worth the risk to take a second chance?
This was a beautiful story of healing and forgiveness. The story is Christian themed where they are seeking for God's hand in their lives and scriptures are quoted from the Bible.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
After a health scare, they both realized what was most important and let God lead their paths more generously. Would it be possible to bridge the gap that was so wide that it divided them before? Was it worth the risk to take a second chance?
This was a beautiful story of healing and forgiveness. The story is Christian themed where they are seeking for God's hand in their lives and scriptures are quoted from the Bible.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
October 19, 2022
I loved this second chance romance for Jack and Josephine. They were high school sweethearts who eloped and had two children. They were married twenty years but got divorced because Jack's work as a medic on an oil rig keep him away from home. Josephine felt abandoned with Jack gone so much. Twenty years after their divorce, Josephine is retired and moving back to Freedom Ridge to live near her children and grandchildren and high school friends she grew up with. When she finds out that she has a brain aneurysm and needs surgery, Jack takes a leave to visit Josephine and help her with her rehab. They never stopped loving each other and this crisis gives them time to talk and ask forgiveness which allows them to reunite. When Jack's boss asks him to cut his leave short and fill in for a medic out on sick leave on an oil rig closer to Freedom Ridge, he accepts with Josephine's blessing. Will Jack come back and remarry Josephine and retire or will a job offer with a pay increase and a huge bonus keep him away? You will have to read the book to find out. I highly recommend this as a clean romance. I received an ARC and this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 4, 2022
This is another installment in the multi-author Heroes of Freedom Ridge series. You don’t have to read them all in order, but characters from previous books show up now and then in the new books.
I enjoyed reading this second chance romance because the couple in question are older, and have been divorced for as many years as they were married. Ho does a good job on illustrating the issues that led to the divorce, and then in making their reconciliation believable. There’s lots of good insights on truly listening to the other person, trusting God instead of money in the bank, listening to nudges from the Holy Spirit, and being willing to admit one’s own failures instead of blaming everything on the other person. I’m glad I got to read the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I enjoyed reading this second chance romance because the couple in question are older, and have been divorced for as many years as they were married. Ho does a good job on illustrating the issues that led to the divorce, and then in making their reconciliation believable. There’s lots of good insights on truly listening to the other person, trusting God instead of money in the bank, listening to nudges from the Holy Spirit, and being willing to admit one’s own failures instead of blaming everything on the other person. I’m glad I got to read the book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 8, 2022
Second Chance with the Hero is such a sweet, Christian romance. I read it quickly, the pace was fast, but I think it worked really well for the story.
I usually don't care for some of the tropes in this book, but the way they were done I found enjoyable. I instantly fell in love with the characters and couldn't wait to see how this book played out. Their story was so cute.
The Christmas theme was light, in my opinion, but it was present enough for me not to complain. I think I would have enjoyed just a bit more Christmas mixed in and then the book would have been 5 stars.
Overall, I greatly enjoyed this book and think it is a great addition to the Heroes of Freedom Ridge series.
I received an ARC of this book for free, and I voluntarily left this honest review.
I usually don't care for some of the tropes in this book, but the way they were done I found enjoyable. I instantly fell in love with the characters and couldn't wait to see how this book played out. Their story was so cute.
The Christmas theme was light, in my opinion, but it was present enough for me not to complain. I think I would have enjoyed just a bit more Christmas mixed in and then the book would have been 5 stars.
Overall, I greatly enjoyed this book and think it is a great addition to the Heroes of Freedom Ridge series.
I received an ARC of this book for free, and I voluntarily left this honest review.
October 6, 2022
Smiling, even as I write this review, just solidifies the hope, joy and faith I felt throughout the entirety of the story. After the diagnosis of an aneurysm, Josephine’s daughter immediately phoned her dad, Jack, to come, even though her parents had been divorced for many years. No one could have predicted what happened next but “All things work together for good…” surely came into play as God’s timing, plan and purpose began to unfold. A story of forgiveness, letting go and stepping out in complete trust in The One Who loves each of us unconditionally, always welcoming us with open arms. Well written, inspiring book by a new to me author but one I will definitely be following ongoing.
October 9, 2022
Josephine has just moved back to Freedom Ridge to be closer to her twins and their families. She was a nurse and mid-wife. Now she's retired and looking forward to being a grandmother.
Jack is her ex husband. He is a medic on an oil rig. They divorced 20 years ago because Josephine wanted him to come home and be with the family. He chose his career.
When Josephine ends up in the hospital, their daughter calls him. Jack flies home to be there for Joey and his daughter who is expecting baby #2.
I loved the chemistry between Jack and Joey. High school sweethearts and the things they fell in love with are still part of who they are today. Such a sweet book!
Jack is her ex husband. He is a medic on an oil rig. They divorced 20 years ago because Josephine wanted him to come home and be with the family. He chose his career.
When Josephine ends up in the hospital, their daughter calls him. Jack flies home to be there for Joey and his daughter who is expecting baby #2.
I loved the chemistry between Jack and Joey. High school sweethearts and the things they fell in love with are still part of who they are today. Such a sweet book!
October 9, 2022
A heartwarming story of a second chance of a failed marriage. Both Josephine and Jack were still in love with each other despite the divorce which was caused by lack of communication and understanding. A severe health issue brings Jack back to town and they both begin to consider reconciliation, which in turn requires a lot more communication and compromise.
The story had lots of feel good moments, moments of worry, excitement, and new life.
Loved it! It was a different style from the previous books by Liwen Ho that I have read. I highly recomment this if you like HEA endings, too.
I received an advance copy of this story from the author. This review is my honest opinion.
The story had lots of feel good moments, moments of worry, excitement, and new life.
Loved it! It was a different style from the previous books by Liwen Ho that I have read. I highly recomment this if you like HEA endings, too.
I received an advance copy of this story from the author. This review is my honest opinion.
October 12, 2022
Painful, Poignant, and Fabulous
Jack and Josephine’s story made my eyes leak more than several times. While it’s “just a story” some of the feelings and fears Josephine had over the years struck home in a very real way. Jacks point of view made me realize things as well.
It shouldn’t be amazing how God works everything out for good, but there is always the sense of thankfulness and awe that he does. Especially in ways we can’t expect or understand. This story reinforces that from Haven and Jeremiah to Jack and Josephine.
Jack may just give Pete a challenge as the best book boyfriend EVAH!
Jack and Josephine’s story made my eyes leak more than several times. While it’s “just a story” some of the feelings and fears Josephine had over the years struck home in a very real way. Jacks point of view made me realize things as well.
It shouldn’t be amazing how God works everything out for good, but there is always the sense of thankfulness and awe that he does. Especially in ways we can’t expect or understand. This story reinforces that from Haven and Jeremiah to Jack and Josephine.
Jack may just give Pete a challenge as the best book boyfriend EVAH!
October 13, 2022
Second Chance with the Hero is a sweet second chance romance. The story is part of the Freedom Ridge series but can be read as
a stand alone book.
This was the first romance I’ve read where the main characters are over 50, and I think Liwen Y. Ho did a great job portraying the relationship dynamics of a broken marriage but the desire for reconciliation.
I found myself wishing the town of Freedom was featured a bit more in Josephine and Jack’s story, but I understand that the premise and the length of this book didn’t allow for that. Overall, it was a sweet and enjoyable read!
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review, and all opinions are my own.
a stand alone book.
This was the first romance I’ve read where the main characters are over 50, and I think Liwen Y. Ho did a great job portraying the relationship dynamics of a broken marriage but the desire for reconciliation.
I found myself wishing the town of Freedom was featured a bit more in Josephine and Jack’s story, but I understand that the premise and the length of this book didn’t allow for that. Overall, it was a sweet and enjoyable read!
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review, and all opinions are my own.
October 14, 2022
I enjoyed reading "Second Chance with the Hero" so much that I read it in one day. This story is so relatable and contains so many lessons. The fact that it centered on a Christian couple made it even better because it demonstrated that there are things people and even couples need to think about in maintaining their relationships. This is a book that I would not hesitate to recommend to my friends because the issues faced by the couple were realistic. Even as I read, I found myself thinking of people I know who should read this story.
Many thanks to the author and BookFunnel for providing the opportunity to voluntarily read and review this ARC. The comments and thoughts I have expressed are my own.
Many thanks to the author and BookFunnel for providing the opportunity to voluntarily read and review this ARC. The comments and thoughts I have expressed are my own.
October 10, 2022
Such a wonderful clean series!
Heartwarming story of an older couple.
Josephine has come home to Freedom to enjoy her children and grandchildren in her retirement. She’s been having severe headaches for a few weeks, but is finally taken to the ER by her good friend, Jan.
With the health scare, Josephine’s ex, Jack, decides it’s time to come back to Freedom too. Each of them have been feeling led to make amends for the way they treated each other in the past.
Is it possible to get a second chance twenty years later?
*I received this book for free for my unbiased review.
Heartwarming story of an older couple.
Josephine has come home to Freedom to enjoy her children and grandchildren in her retirement. She’s been having severe headaches for a few weeks, but is finally taken to the ER by her good friend, Jan.
With the health scare, Josephine’s ex, Jack, decides it’s time to come back to Freedom too. Each of them have been feeling led to make amends for the way they treated each other in the past.
Is it possible to get a second chance twenty years later?
*I received this book for free for my unbiased review.
October 12, 2022
A beautiful second chance romance featuring a divorced couple who never stopped caring about each other even in the twenty years apart. This story resonated with me as their story reminded me about my marriage minus the divorce. The struggles the wife had while he was away working, his need to provide for his family even though he had to be away for his job. This put such a strain on their marriage. When a health scare happens he leaves his job to help her. The writing was authentic and I think a lot of people could learn something from it.
October 13, 2022
I really liked this story by Liwen Y. Ho. What a concept of a couple, twenty years after their divorce finally having the conversation they should have had long before their marriage ended. Once again failure to communicate creates failure. Not only did they not talk but they also did not really listen to what the other needed to feel secure and loved. Thankfully prayer and God lead circumstances give them a second chance. At times I don’t know which one of them I wanted to shake the most.
October 22, 2022
Earlier in the series we met Jack and Josephine. Finally, they get their own story. We learn about what tore them apart and how they are finally learning to set their hurts apart to trust God and each other. It is a sweet and enjoyable read. Even though it is part of a series, it stands on its own quite well. No nail biting in this book, but it’s the perfect book to read a little here and there when you can snag a few moments in a busy life. It is uplifting and encouraging. The strong Christian values come through and are good reminders in our busy lives to trust God even when it’s scary to do so.
I received an Advance Readers Copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received an Advance Readers Copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2022
Second Chance with the Hero was such a beautiful story! I must admit older couples aren't my trope of choice, but apparently, Liwen Ho has a way of creating such compelling characters and stories that I not only end up giving them a chance but also enjoying them more than I thought I would! I definitely ended up loving Jack and Josephine's second chance story. Not only because of the sweet romance (though the chemistry and longing were well done!) but especially because of the faith/Christian thread: that God is enough, He's the only one who can meet our every need, and His timing is perfect. The narrator was great, bringing every character to life, (though I had a bit of a warming-up period with Jack's voice), but other than that, her performance played a large part in my enjoyment of this book. Overall, a truly beautiful addition to this excellent series, and of course, it was great getting to see past characters such as Jeremiah and Haven (and their children). ~ 5 stars!
Rating:
Story ~ 5 stars
Narrator ~ 4 stars
Overall ~ 4.5 stars rounded up to 5
Rating:
Story ~ 5 stars
Narrator ~ 4 stars
Overall ~ 4.5 stars rounded up to 5
January 11, 2026
This was a great read. The MC's are in their 50's, so very mature characters, mature thinking, and conversations.
It wasn't easy for them, and I loved how the faith elements helped them make their decisions.
Only thing I have to point out was her shaved hair that was forgotten, and I wish I had read more about her difficulty with her almost paralized limbs.
The faith elements were up my alley too. And it wasn't bland. There was a perfect dose of chemistry. I felt the angst and what our characters were going through.
It wasn't easy for them, and I loved how the faith elements helped them make their decisions.
Only thing I have to point out was her shaved hair that was forgotten, and I wish I had read more about her difficulty with her almost paralized limbs.
The faith elements were up my alley too. And it wasn't bland. There was a perfect dose of chemistry. I felt the angst and what our characters were going through.
October 7, 2022
Liwen Ho is a master with relationships. Second Chance With the Hero definitely shows her skill in the changing relationship between Josephine and Jack. I was reminded of several life skills in reading this inspirational, Christian romance... the importance of honest communication for one. I recommend this clean, HEA romance for teens through adult.
I was given an ARC of this book from the author. This review is my honest opinion, given voluntarily.
I was given an ARC of this book from the author. This review is my honest opinion, given voluntarily.
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