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Second Chance Romance #1
This Time Around
Ten years ago, she broke her first love’s heart. Now, like it or not, she’s his wedding date.
Katie finds her hometown friend’s wedding invitation buried under a stack of mail and makes the last-minute decision to escape her demanding job long enough to attend. She’s given little thought to being minus a plus one until the bride suggests she attend with another single. Anticipating polite conversation with a stranger over the plated entrée, Katie agrees... and finds herself face-to-face with her high school boyfriend, whom she hasn’t seen since she dumped him after graduation.
Once a shy, gawky teenager, Chase has grown into a strong, handsome man. Yet he never escaped the heartache of Katie’s sharp rejection. For years, he’s distracted himself with work. Now, his time is filled with raising his nephew after his brother and sister-in-law died in a car accident. The last thing he needs is a painful reminder of the past. Yet thanks to his cousin, the two meet again and realize the spark of attraction between them is still burning bright.
But Katie needs to return to her job, and Chase can’t uproot his orphaned nephew. Can the pair reconcile and build a future together?
Katie finds her hometown friend’s wedding invitation buried under a stack of mail and makes the last-minute decision to escape her demanding job long enough to attend. She’s given little thought to being minus a plus one until the bride suggests she attend with another single. Anticipating polite conversation with a stranger over the plated entrée, Katie agrees... and finds herself face-to-face with her high school boyfriend, whom she hasn’t seen since she dumped him after graduation.
Once a shy, gawky teenager, Chase has grown into a strong, handsome man. Yet he never escaped the heartache of Katie’s sharp rejection. For years, he’s distracted himself with work. Now, his time is filled with raising his nephew after his brother and sister-in-law died in a car accident. The last thing he needs is a painful reminder of the past. Yet thanks to his cousin, the two meet again and realize the spark of attraction between them is still burning bright.
But Katie needs to return to her job, and Chase can’t uproot his orphaned nephew. Can the pair reconcile and build a future together?
154 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 11, 2022
4 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
Jane Suen
28 books858 followersJane Suen is a USA Today bestselling author who writes mysteries, sci-fi thrillers, short stories, contemporary romance, and crime fiction.
She is a transplant to the South who has taken a liking to grits, iced tea, and snow cones - so she's there to stay.
For more, join her newsletter ➜ https://BookHip.com/FRPLCVT
She is a transplant to the South who has taken a liking to grits, iced tea, and snow cones - so she's there to stay.
For more, join her newsletter ➜ https://BookHip.com/FRPLCVT
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
July 20, 2022
This Time Around may just be my favourite story by this author to date. It is an emotional journey where my emotions were all over the place. This short story is a sweet second chance romance story and I read it in one sitting. The characters are likeable and well developed. Jane’s writing hooks her readers with her narrative that keeps you engaged all the way through. It is a short story, which makes for a quick and easy read. I wish it were longer.
Katie has returned to her hometown for a wedding only come face to face with her old boyfriend the one she left behind.
Chase has mixed emotions seeing his ex but he doesn’t have time in his life for romance. He has a much higher priority.
I highly recommend it.
Katie has returned to her hometown for a wedding only come face to face with her old boyfriend the one she left behind.
Chase has mixed emotions seeing his ex but he doesn’t have time in his life for romance. He has a much higher priority.
I highly recommend it.
July 12, 2022
This Time Around by Jane Suen
5 Stars
It is an immediate one click whenever this author releases another story. I will always read anything she writes!
This might just be my favorite by her so far. That's not easy to say because I've loved every book on her list to date. This one caught me on the first page and I literally read it in an hour last night right before bed.
I connected with Katie immediately, I felt the feelings of guilt that she had with choosing her future career and leaving family, friends, Love, and her hometown behind. I felt this deep and loved her!
The whole storyline was amazing! Chase won my heart as soon as he was introduced to me! His story and the choice he made at such a young age and doing it with so much love! Yea, he is a favorite male character of mine from now on! I also loved how his emotions went through phases, it made the feelings these two shared feel so real! I normally do not like a lot of flashbacks in a book, but this author knows exactly how to place them and how to make them relevant with just the right amount. I truly appreciated that as it allowed me more understanding.
I sat crying at the end of this book, I mean with real tears. Not sure how this author can always pull such strong feelings after every story, especially when her stories are normally shorter but she does.
I LOVED it! I can't wait for more!!
5 Stars
It is an immediate one click whenever this author releases another story. I will always read anything she writes!
This might just be my favorite by her so far. That's not easy to say because I've loved every book on her list to date. This one caught me on the first page and I literally read it in an hour last night right before bed.
I connected with Katie immediately, I felt the feelings of guilt that she had with choosing her future career and leaving family, friends, Love, and her hometown behind. I felt this deep and loved her!
The whole storyline was amazing! Chase won my heart as soon as he was introduced to me! His story and the choice he made at such a young age and doing it with so much love! Yea, he is a favorite male character of mine from now on! I also loved how his emotions went through phases, it made the feelings these two shared feel so real! I normally do not like a lot of flashbacks in a book, but this author knows exactly how to place them and how to make them relevant with just the right amount. I truly appreciated that as it allowed me more understanding.
I sat crying at the end of this book, I mean with real tears. Not sure how this author can always pull such strong feelings after every story, especially when her stories are normally shorter but she does.
I LOVED it! I can't wait for more!!
July 21, 2022
Katie made a choice when she was 18 that would change her life forever. She was madly in love with Chase and he her. However, Katie desired the city life, the big career, and all that comes with it. She made her choice but for the past ten years has wondered what might have been. When an invitation to attend a wedding in her hometown arrives, Katie isn't sure she'll go to the wedding, but she'll go home to visit her mom and sister. Afterall, she wasn't there for her dad and she regrets that too! Now that her mom is becoming more frail, it's a great excuse to get away for the weekend.
Katie's boss is a real piece of work! She is extremely demanding of Katie's time and this is the first chance she's had to get away. After a day with her sister preparing for the wedding that she's now suckered into attending, she realizes just how much she's missed life. Can she be the plus one to Chase at this wedding though? It's been ten long, arduous years.
I was able to read this entire story in about two hours time. I couldn't put it down! This is a new-to-me author but one that I will be looking for more of her work! I loved the characters and could identify with Katie on the level of being a workaholic. It's a good thing when you can finally walk away from that life!
Katie's boss is a real piece of work! She is extremely demanding of Katie's time and this is the first chance she's had to get away. After a day with her sister preparing for the wedding that she's now suckered into attending, she realizes just how much she's missed life. Can she be the plus one to Chase at this wedding though? It's been ten long, arduous years.
I was able to read this entire story in about two hours time. I couldn't put it down! This is a new-to-me author but one that I will be looking for more of her work! I loved the characters and could identify with Katie on the level of being a workaholic. It's a good thing when you can finally walk away from that life!
July 21, 2022
A heartwarmingly sweet romance which had me happily turning the pages. Katie returns to her hometown to attend a friend’s wedding but does not have a date, and so the bride sets her up with her cousin. Katie is surprised when she comes face to face with her date, to discover it’s her ex boyfriend, Chase. Chase only agreed to the date for his cousin, the last thing he wanted was to see the girl who had broken his heart ten years earlier when she left for the big city. Things have certainly changed for Chase over the years, having also left his hometown, he’s now returned and living there whilst bringing up his orphaned nephew.
Meanwhile, Katie is happy to be home and to spend time with family but she can’t help but think how her life, and her job, which had so much potential hasn’t really turned out how she had imagined. Katie and Chase can not deny that their chemistry is still there, but even if they can get over the past, Katie has to return to her job in the city and Chase’s life is in their hometown with his nephew, Timmy. I loved Katie and Chase, they were both likeable and relatable characters who I felt instantly engaged with. The small town setting really came alive through the descriptive narrative, and I felt immersed in small town living. I was cheering the couple on, hoping they would both get their HEA. This was an enjoyable read which I would recommend.
Meanwhile, Katie is happy to be home and to spend time with family but she can’t help but think how her life, and her job, which had so much potential hasn’t really turned out how she had imagined. Katie and Chase can not deny that their chemistry is still there, but even if they can get over the past, Katie has to return to her job in the city and Chase’s life is in their hometown with his nephew, Timmy. I loved Katie and Chase, they were both likeable and relatable characters who I felt instantly engaged with. The small town setting really came alive through the descriptive narrative, and I felt immersed in small town living. I was cheering the couple on, hoping they would both get their HEA. This was an enjoyable read which I would recommend.
July 20, 2022
I have enjoyed this author in the past, and I am certainly enjoying this author now! They created such a good story, with wonderful characters and a story of intrigue and its own level of passion.
This book had everything. I connected with Katie so much. She gave up what she had to chase her own dreams. In the end what she had was lost, and she never really got over it. Chase was such a sweetheart; his emotions were real and vivid a well. I loved how they never stopped caring for one another but weren’t sure how to really go back all and all. I loved the character development especially with Katie. She changed from the last time she saw Chase. The chemistry and love were undeniable. The hurt and feelings that were felt was real. The passion was very much real as well. I fell in love over and over as I read. Such a beautiful and wonderful read. I am so happy I got to enjoy this! Loved it!
This author always knows how to suck in the reader and hold them there and make them feel a lot of things. I highly recommend this author if you have not read their work already, and I most certainly recommend this must-read book. Its one not to be passed up for any reason! Loved it!
This book had everything. I connected with Katie so much. She gave up what she had to chase her own dreams. In the end what she had was lost, and she never really got over it. Chase was such a sweetheart; his emotions were real and vivid a well. I loved how they never stopped caring for one another but weren’t sure how to really go back all and all. I loved the character development especially with Katie. She changed from the last time she saw Chase. The chemistry and love were undeniable. The hurt and feelings that were felt was real. The passion was very much real as well. I fell in love over and over as I read. Such a beautiful and wonderful read. I am so happy I got to enjoy this! Loved it!
This author always knows how to suck in the reader and hold them there and make them feel a lot of things. I highly recommend this author if you have not read their work already, and I most certainly recommend this must-read book. Its one not to be passed up for any reason! Loved it!
July 21, 2022
This Time Around by Jane Suen. This is a great second time around romance. Its the story of Katie who breaks up with her high school sweetheart Chase so that he can pursue his college dreams and she can pursue hers. Thinking she did the best thing for everyone she soon realizes what she really gave up. When she lands her dream job she thinks she may be ok but her demanding boss soon causes her love of her job to dissolve. When she gets invited to her old hometown for a friends wedding she decides to take a break from the non stop work and go. Chase has been broken hearted ever since Katie broke up with him and he can't seem to find anyone to compare. When his brother and sister in law are killed in a tragic car accident he is given custody of his nephew. That is all he is focusing on right now. When his cousin invites him to their wedding and tells him they are adding him to a plus one he's fine with it until he realizes that plus one is Katie. They quickly realize their feelings never went away. Will they be able to figure out a way to make their relationship work?
July 22, 2022
4.5 Stars
This Time Around is the newest instalment from one of my ‘must read’ authors and is now firmly at the top of my favourite books by Jane Suen. It is a sweet second chance contemporary romance, with emotion, family, angst, chemistry, steam, touching and tender moments, fate, miscommunication/misunderstandings, hurt, grudges, and just enough drama to keep me flipping the pages.
With work pressure and responsibility weighing her down, Katie Simmons decides to attend a wedding back in her hometown at the last minute, hoping for a little light distraction. But, little did she know that she would be coming face to face with a part of her past she thought she’d let go. But fate had ensured that they were thrust together at the wedding- mmmm awkward much. With past hurt, grudges, chemistry, and some sizzle- things are about to get interesting.
As with anything Ms. Suen does, she had me hooked right from the beginning and kept me engaged the whole way through.
Looking forward to whatever Ms. Suen decides to do next!
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Jane Suen!
This Time Around is the newest instalment from one of my ‘must read’ authors and is now firmly at the top of my favourite books by Jane Suen. It is a sweet second chance contemporary romance, with emotion, family, angst, chemistry, steam, touching and tender moments, fate, miscommunication/misunderstandings, hurt, grudges, and just enough drama to keep me flipping the pages.
With work pressure and responsibility weighing her down, Katie Simmons decides to attend a wedding back in her hometown at the last minute, hoping for a little light distraction. But, little did she know that she would be coming face to face with a part of her past she thought she’d let go. But fate had ensured that they were thrust together at the wedding- mmmm awkward much. With past hurt, grudges, chemistry, and some sizzle- things are about to get interesting.
As with anything Ms. Suen does, she had me hooked right from the beginning and kept me engaged the whole way through.
Looking forward to whatever Ms. Suen decides to do next!
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Jane Suen!
August 5, 2022
This is a really heartwarming sweet, second chance romance story. It was my first time reading this author’s work so I was unsure what to expect. I’m glad I chose to read this book because I really enjoyed it.
I would have liked the book to be longer as i felt it came to quite an abrupt end. There was so much more scope to add to the story and at only 150 pages it felt more like a novella.
In saying that I really did enjoy Katie and Chase’s story. Both are great characters and I could easily relate to them. I adored the relationship that Chase has with his nephew Timmy and I have to say that little Timmy stole my heart.
The story is well written and flows well with enough action to keep you entertained and gripped by the story. I really would have liked to have read more about Chase, Katie and Timmy.
Definitely recommend, especially if you want a quick read.
I would have liked the book to be longer as i felt it came to quite an abrupt end. There was so much more scope to add to the story and at only 150 pages it felt more like a novella.
In saying that I really did enjoy Katie and Chase’s story. Both are great characters and I could easily relate to them. I adored the relationship that Chase has with his nephew Timmy and I have to say that little Timmy stole my heart.
The story is well written and flows well with enough action to keep you entertained and gripped by the story. I really would have liked to have read more about Chase, Katie and Timmy.
Definitely recommend, especially if you want a quick read.
July 18, 2022
Katie moved away from her hometown and has a career. When she attends a wedding back home (a rather spur-of-the-moment choice). She doesn't have a boyfriend or husband so someone suggests another single, except it's her old boyfriend that she dumped after high-school. Oops.
He's super handsome now, but still not happy about the rejection. He's also buried in work and raising his nephew. Maybe something is still there between him and Katie, if life stuff doesn't get in the way.
The author's style of writing and bringing the emotions and characters interaction to life was great. The flashbacks were well-done and placed properly. I highly recommend it.
July 20, 2022
Ten years ago, Katie thought she was doing the right thing by breaking off her relationship with her high school boyfriend, Chase. She thought she was going after her dreams and that he shouldn’t give up his dreams and his scholarship to a different college just for her. After college, Katie got the job she thought she’d always wanted, and while it started out great, a new boss has made her hate the job and question being in the position. When Katie returns home for a wedding, the bride forces the old sweethearts back together as she doesn’t want any singles at her wedding. This causes the couple to rekindle the romance they had shared. When Katie’s mom gets hurt, it makes Katie reevaluate her life choices and what is really important.
July 21, 2022
Kate finds second-chance love with her high-school sweetheart, Chase. This book is so romantic. I am a fan of this author as romance stories have an amazing human emotion to them. You can truly feel the love, the pain, everything the couples go through as they are working through the relationship. Truly, the struggle is real. This story is so relatable. Even more so due to Chase raising his nephew. Decisions must be made, secrets must be brought out. Family members are just helping them. This is a well-written and developed story that will touch your heart and leave you feeling touched when you are done. Another winner for the romance category for 2022. Love!
August 3, 2022
This author is one that never fails to impress. I never hesitate to start reading a book she has written because they are all so good, and this is just another one to add to that list. I loved the story between the main characters. They were exactly what each of them needed and I loved the way they developed.
The story was emotional and well written. I was fully invested in what the author had written. I always enjoy how varied her work is. No two books are ever the same which is why I think I like them so much. This is another great story by an author who should be on every ones one click list.
The story was emotional and well written. I was fully invested in what the author had written. I always enjoy how varied her work is. No two books are ever the same which is why I think I like them so much. This is another great story by an author who should be on every ones one click list.
July 23, 2022
I loved reading this book. This is an author that I have enjoyed from the first book I picked up from her. Her writing skills and attention to details bring her stories to life. This book is no different. This is a fast paced, engaging story that is shorter but packs a punch. A story where two people have great chemistry but life gets in the way. Will these two figure out things and be able to have a life together? I enjoyed Katie and Chase’s growth throughout the story. It made the story easy and entertaining for me. This is a great romance story that I highly recommend reading.
July 21, 2022
I blinked, and I was done this book! I wish it was longer, so I could spend more time with Katie, Mary, Chase, and Timmy. The characters were so relatable and wholesome, and the story was short and sweet. I could feel Katie's emotions as she came back to her hometown... The regret and sorrow. Thinking she might have prioritized her work over her family and happiness.
Watching her figure out her life in order to find a second chance at love was so fulfilling. Maybe it took going away for ten years to truly appreciate what she had.
Jane Suen writes in such a descriptive and easy-flowing way. This is my second book of hers, and I just want more!
Watching her figure out her life in order to find a second chance at love was so fulfilling. Maybe it took going away for ten years to truly appreciate what she had.
Jane Suen writes in such a descriptive and easy-flowing way. This is my second book of hers, and I just want more!
August 5, 2022
Second chance romances are one of my favorites. This one was a quick read and I didnt feel like I got to really "know" the characters just kind of surface need to know details.
While the story was good and had lots for me to love I just felt I wanted more of just about everything.
I did love the small town and how everyone knows everyone and helps each other, I also felt all was rushed quickly.
Makes for a good afternoon read.
While the story was good and had lots for me to love I just felt I wanted more of just about everything.
I did love the small town and how everyone knows everyone and helps each other, I also felt all was rushed quickly.
Makes for a good afternoon read.
July 22, 2022
This is not my first novel by this terrific author, but it is by far my favorite. This is one of my new favorite authors and I automatically snap up every thing she releases. Her characters in this one are terrific, well developed, and so easy to relate to that you can't help but feel all of their emotions. The word building was great, the story line was amazing, and by the end of story I was in tears. But that won't stop me from picking up the next novel.
July 22, 2022
Katie is home for a wedding and a quick visit with her family. The bride doesn't like you to be without a plus one so she sets Katie up with Chase. Oh the memories and feelings Katie is overwhelmed with.
This book is full of all the feels. When Katie's mom takes a fall and has to have a care taker will Katie be able to step up and take care of her?
Great second chance romance.
This book is full of all the feels. When Katie's mom takes a fall and has to have a care taker will Katie be able to step up and take care of her?
Great second chance romance.
July 14, 2022
Jane has done it again
I loved this story...Jane brought love back into the lives of Katie and Chase. I love a book with a happy ending! Bravo Jane!
I loved this story...Jane brought love back into the lives of Katie and Chase. I love a book with a happy ending! Bravo Jane!
August 4, 2022
After getting home from a long stressful vacation, I was looking for a short love story to read. Man did I ever pick the right one. This Time Around by Jane Suen was everything I was looking for; I wasn’t able to put it down once I started. This is a heartfelt second chance first love romance. It was refreshing to see a female MC be the heartbreaker, even if she was heartbroken for doing it. If you are looking for a quick read I definitely cannot recommend this enough!
August 4, 2022
When Katie finds an old friend’s wedding invitation buried amidst her junk mail she feels compelled to attend. Although it is a hasty, last-minute decision she decides to take some much-needed time off work from her high demand, high pressure job and return to her hometown. Katie gives no thought to the fact that she has not RSVP’d that she will be attending nor that she has no date for her friend’s wedding. When she arrives in her hometown, she calls the bride to let her know that she will be attending her wedding and is promptly told that she must be paired up with someone else. Expecting this person to be a stranger Katie reluctantly agrees. What Katie never anticipated was to be paired up with her old high school boyfriend, Chase, who she has not seen since she dumped him ten years ago.
Chase has never gotten over the hurt he felt after Katie’s rejection. For ten years he has buried his feelings for her and kept himself busy with work and raising his orphaned nephew. Chase still harbors resentment towards Katie because of how she so coldly broke up with him and therefore he has hardened his heart towards her. When his cousin tells him that Katie will be his plus one at her wedding Chase is less than pleased but reluctantly agrees because he loves his cousin.
What neither Katie nor Chase expected is to feel the same spark they did while dating all those years ago. The attraction they feel towards one another is instant, yet how can they act on it when so much time has gone by? Chase is still angry over Katie’s rejection and her leaving town so abruptly after their graduation and he refuses to be hurt by her again. What Chase does not know is how terrible Katie feels for breaking it off with him with no explanation. She thought she was making the best decision at the time by pursuing a career in the big city. Life has also changed considerably for both Katie and Chase over the years. Katie must return to her career in the big city and there is no way that Chase will uproot his nephew and leave everything behind. Will their reunion be destined to fail again with so many obstacles in their way?
I loved the characters of Katie and Chase because they were real and relatable. I enjoyed watching the characters evolve and seeing how each character grew from being awkward teenagers into mature, hard-working adults. I could not put this book down because I had to see what would happen between Katie and Chase and if their love for one another would be enough to overcome what life had thrown at them. This book was a great read, and the author did an amazing job of bringing the reader into the world of Chase and Katie, making you feel as though you know them. I highly recommend!
Chase has never gotten over the hurt he felt after Katie’s rejection. For ten years he has buried his feelings for her and kept himself busy with work and raising his orphaned nephew. Chase still harbors resentment towards Katie because of how she so coldly broke up with him and therefore he has hardened his heart towards her. When his cousin tells him that Katie will be his plus one at her wedding Chase is less than pleased but reluctantly agrees because he loves his cousin.
What neither Katie nor Chase expected is to feel the same spark they did while dating all those years ago. The attraction they feel towards one another is instant, yet how can they act on it when so much time has gone by? Chase is still angry over Katie’s rejection and her leaving town so abruptly after their graduation and he refuses to be hurt by her again. What Chase does not know is how terrible Katie feels for breaking it off with him with no explanation. She thought she was making the best decision at the time by pursuing a career in the big city. Life has also changed considerably for both Katie and Chase over the years. Katie must return to her career in the big city and there is no way that Chase will uproot his nephew and leave everything behind. Will their reunion be destined to fail again with so many obstacles in their way?
I loved the characters of Katie and Chase because they were real and relatable. I enjoyed watching the characters evolve and seeing how each character grew from being awkward teenagers into mature, hard-working adults. I could not put this book down because I had to see what would happen between Katie and Chase and if their love for one another would be enough to overcome what life had thrown at them. This book was a great read, and the author did an amazing job of bringing the reader into the world of Chase and Katie, making you feel as though you know them. I highly recommend!
August 6, 2022
Katie who broke up with her high school boyfriend and left for college never looking back, comes home for her friend’s wedding. Long hours on dream job have taken its toll on her and she has forgotten to RSVP and find a plus one for the wedding. Katie called her sister Mary two days before the wedding and upon Mary’s insistence, she came home for the big event. Once she arrived safely and in her sister’s care, Katie called her friend Laurie to let her know that she would be there but without a plus one. Laurie would not have that as she wanted everyone to be paired at her wedding so she told Katie that her plus one would meet her at the wedding. Guess who that is? Her ex-boyfriend, Chase, that she so rudely and coldly broke up with upon leaving for college. Through the pages we read more about the lovers past and get to the deep-seated issues that lie in the way between them. Along the journey, Katie realizes that what she thought was her dream job in reality is not and her boss truly is the Boss From Hell.
Such cute characters were well developed and well written so that we get to hear the inner thoughts of both Katie and Chase as we follow along with them. It was such a sweet romance and of course like most romance novels, the two find a way to be together and to build a life worth living. This book is a great read and a cute escape for an afternoon by the pool or at the beach. You can’t help but to fall in love with the leading man Chase and to cheer for the couple when they finally decide to pair up again but for life this time.
Such cute characters were well developed and well written so that we get to hear the inner thoughts of both Katie and Chase as we follow along with them. It was such a sweet romance and of course like most romance novels, the two find a way to be together and to build a life worth living. This book is a great read and a cute escape for an afternoon by the pool or at the beach. You can’t help but to fall in love with the leading man Chase and to cheer for the couple when they finally decide to pair up again but for life this time.
August 2, 2022
I love the books by this author. The stories are always so beautifully written and the characters and their story always captivate me. And this books was exactly the same.
This books is a story about second chance love and all the challenges that come with it.
Kate is our leading lady. She is a strong independent woman who knows what she wants. So when the chance at the job or her dream comes up she gives up everything to take this job. By everything I mean family, friends, the love of her life and the place she calls home. However the reality isn't always as good as the dream and when she finds herself returning home she feels like she could have been missing out all along and everything she wanted could have been right in front of her.
When she bumps into her old love Chase the feelings for Kate resurface all over again but Chase isn't the boy she left behind. He has changed and has never gotten over the rejection from Kate all those years ago.
Another person who throws themselves into his work Chase doesn't have time to relationships and with the added pressure of taking care of his nephew, women as the last thing on his mind. Well all but one woman.
When they meet again at a wedding the chemistry is still there, but can they make their lives work to see what could be or will life and challenges stop them from once again being together. Does love work any better the second time around or is it destined to just repeat the past and end in heartbreak?
This books is a story about second chance love and all the challenges that come with it.
Kate is our leading lady. She is a strong independent woman who knows what she wants. So when the chance at the job or her dream comes up she gives up everything to take this job. By everything I mean family, friends, the love of her life and the place she calls home. However the reality isn't always as good as the dream and when she finds herself returning home she feels like she could have been missing out all along and everything she wanted could have been right in front of her.
When she bumps into her old love Chase the feelings for Kate resurface all over again but Chase isn't the boy she left behind. He has changed and has never gotten over the rejection from Kate all those years ago.
Another person who throws themselves into his work Chase doesn't have time to relationships and with the added pressure of taking care of his nephew, women as the last thing on his mind. Well all but one woman.
When they meet again at a wedding the chemistry is still there, but can they make their lives work to see what could be or will life and challenges stop them from once again being together. Does love work any better the second time around or is it destined to just repeat the past and end in heartbreak?
August 4, 2022
This Time Around by Jane Suen is a fast paced second chance romance novella. It centers around Katie and Chase who were young lovers, but Katie shattered his heart when she left him, and everyone else she cared about, to pursue what she thought was her dream job. Chase never really forgave her, but tried to push thoughts of her and his pain aside to focus on raising his orphaned nephew, Timmy. When Katie returns to her hometown attend a wedding, the bride insists she bring a plus one and has the perfect person for her- Chase. Now Katie is placed face to face with the man she crushed a decade prior and her guilt is all-consuming. While trying his best to suppress it, Chase’s feelings of resentment cause inner turmoil as they resurface. Can they put everything aside and pick up where they left off or is the emotional damage too extensive?
I really enjoyed this story. It was easy to dive into and left me feeling all the feels. Jane Suen did a wonderful job developing and expressing each character. The story is relatable to anyone who has had to make hard choices in life to find happiness- which I would venture to say would make it relatable to nearly everyone! If you’re in the mood for a quick romance, I would recommend giving this story a try! I’ll be looking for more stories by this author in the future, as I quite enjoyed her writing.
I really enjoyed this story. It was easy to dive into and left me feeling all the feels. Jane Suen did a wonderful job developing and expressing each character. The story is relatable to anyone who has had to make hard choices in life to find happiness- which I would venture to say would make it relatable to nearly everyone! If you’re in the mood for a quick romance, I would recommend giving this story a try! I’ll be looking for more stories by this author in the future, as I quite enjoyed her writing.
August 3, 2022
Katie is returning to her small hometown for a friend's wedding. She hasn't returned in years...and the last time she did, she spent most of the time working anyway. When the bride sets her up with a plus one for the big day, she is not sure how to feel when she learns it is her ex-boyfriend that she hasn't spoken to since she broke his heart ten years ago.
Chase's is less than thrilled when his cousin lets him know that she has volunteered him to be his ex-girlfriend's plus one. He is finally over her. His life now revolves around raising his nephew. The feelings of resentment towards Katie are right there on the surface...but she is not the same girl he remembers from ten years ago.
As feelings begin getting involved, they are reminded that their time is limited because Katie must return home. But, when a family emergency arises, will Katie head back to work or will she finally put her own happiness first?!?
This was a quick and easy read. The story is fast paced, as the timeline for the story is really only a couple of days. You could feel the love that Katie and Chase shared as teenagers...and the agony and regret Katie feels over the way things ended. It was a story that pulled me in from the beginning. I finished it in one sitting.
Chase's is less than thrilled when his cousin lets him know that she has volunteered him to be his ex-girlfriend's plus one. He is finally over her. His life now revolves around raising his nephew. The feelings of resentment towards Katie are right there on the surface...but she is not the same girl he remembers from ten years ago.
As feelings begin getting involved, they are reminded that their time is limited because Katie must return home. But, when a family emergency arises, will Katie head back to work or will she finally put her own happiness first?!?
This was a quick and easy read. The story is fast paced, as the timeline for the story is really only a couple of days. You could feel the love that Katie and Chase shared as teenagers...and the agony and regret Katie feels over the way things ended. It was a story that pulled me in from the beginning. I finished it in one sitting.
August 4, 2022
This Time Around by Jane Suen - Review by Maryn Belling
The literary equivalent of homemade custard pie, This Time Around lives up to its promises. Especially well-suited for fans of Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, or Harry Stiles the story hits all the idyllic notes of small town America and the bumps along the way from high school to late-20something-ness.
Not as wild as Aurora Teagarden’s escapades by Charlaine Harris or the adventures of Mojo Sheepshanks by Linda Lael Miller or the audacity of Charlie Davidson’s work by Darynda Jones , This Time Around brings a gentler approach. While her boss isn’t quite the Miranda Priestly we all met in Devil Wears Prada, Katie isn’t far from our beloved Andrea Sachs. Life has its ups and downs for all the folks we meet in Katie’s unnamed hometown.
You’re sure to enjoy this book if you’re a fan of homemade custard pie and a mug of diner coffee. Unsure about custard pie? If walking through a small town gives you warm fuzzies & doesn’t make you think of Pretty Little Liars or The Stand, this book is for you.
CWs for widows, orphans, survivors, and elder-care-givers.
This Time Around, Jane Suen, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Sweet Romance,
The literary equivalent of homemade custard pie, This Time Around lives up to its promises. Especially well-suited for fans of Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, or Harry Stiles the story hits all the idyllic notes of small town America and the bumps along the way from high school to late-20something-ness.
Not as wild as Aurora Teagarden’s escapades by Charlaine Harris or the adventures of Mojo Sheepshanks by Linda Lael Miller or the audacity of Charlie Davidson’s work by Darynda Jones , This Time Around brings a gentler approach. While her boss isn’t quite the Miranda Priestly we all met in Devil Wears Prada, Katie isn’t far from our beloved Andrea Sachs. Life has its ups and downs for all the folks we meet in Katie’s unnamed hometown.
You’re sure to enjoy this book if you’re a fan of homemade custard pie and a mug of diner coffee. Unsure about custard pie? If walking through a small town gives you warm fuzzies & doesn’t make you think of Pretty Little Liars or The Stand, this book is for you.
CWs for widows, orphans, survivors, and elder-care-givers.
This Time Around, Jane Suen, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Sweet Romance,
August 4, 2022
Such a sweet second chance romance. It brought all kinds of smiles to my face. This Time Around was short, sweet, and worth the read.
Chase and Katie were high school sweethearts, but when it came to leaving for college Katie broke Chase’s heart. 10 years later and now they are back in their hometown attending a wedding as each other’s plus one. Katie has been living the last 10 years with guilt and regret over what she said and did to Chase. While Chase has been dealing with resentment and hurt.
Has 10 years been just what they needed?
Will the past always be in the way?
Maybe it’s that love has never died and they both need to embrace it. Who knows?
What I do know is I feel for Chase. He dealt with the harder end of the deal and persevered. Also made me dislike Katie, but part of me wonders if the author implied the reason for the breakup as selfish or self-sacrificing. Selfish because she didn’t want to even try to make the long distance work. Self-sacrificing because Katie refused to let Chase give up his scholarship to follow her and her dreams vs going after his own. You know what else I know, I know what I read and recommend that you read it too! The author put together a well written love story that should be enjoyed by all who love the genre’!
Chase and Katie were high school sweethearts, but when it came to leaving for college Katie broke Chase’s heart. 10 years later and now they are back in their hometown attending a wedding as each other’s plus one. Katie has been living the last 10 years with guilt and regret over what she said and did to Chase. While Chase has been dealing with resentment and hurt.
Has 10 years been just what they needed?
Will the past always be in the way?
Maybe it’s that love has never died and they both need to embrace it. Who knows?
What I do know is I feel for Chase. He dealt with the harder end of the deal and persevered. Also made me dislike Katie, but part of me wonders if the author implied the reason for the breakup as selfish or self-sacrificing. Selfish because she didn’t want to even try to make the long distance work. Self-sacrificing because Katie refused to let Chase give up his scholarship to follow her and her dreams vs going after his own. You know what else I know, I know what I read and recommend that you read it too! The author put together a well written love story that should be enjoyed by all who love the genre’!
August 2, 2022
5 out of 5 stars
This Time Around, by Jane Suen
Let me start out by saying that this is a precious book, and I whole heartedly enjoyed every moment of it. This book revolves around the romance of Katie and Chase, and their history together and getting a second chance.
Katie had big dreams after high school, and left her small town, her friends and family, and the boy she loved to follow them in the big city, being too stubborn to ever look back. Now, she finds herself visiting her hometown for a wedding last minute, and the bride surprises her with her first love as her date.
Chase fought hard to forget the pain he felt when Katie left, but as soon as he saw her, he knew his heart wasn't as hardened to her as he had hoped. Katie thought she had buried her feelings for Chase at the bottom of her heart, but as soon as she saw him, she melted. This is the story of their lives crossing again after 10 years apart, and a love that lasts through the years.
This wholesome and heartwarming book reminds us that there are second chances in life, with friends, family, and sometimes even in romance.
This Time Around, by Jane Suen
Let me start out by saying that this is a precious book, and I whole heartedly enjoyed every moment of it. This book revolves around the romance of Katie and Chase, and their history together and getting a second chance.
Katie had big dreams after high school, and left her small town, her friends and family, and the boy she loved to follow them in the big city, being too stubborn to ever look back. Now, she finds herself visiting her hometown for a wedding last minute, and the bride surprises her with her first love as her date.
Chase fought hard to forget the pain he felt when Katie left, but as soon as he saw her, he knew his heart wasn't as hardened to her as he had hoped. Katie thought she had buried her feelings for Chase at the bottom of her heart, but as soon as she saw him, she melted. This is the story of their lives crossing again after 10 years apart, and a love that lasts through the years.
This wholesome and heartwarming book reminds us that there are second chances in life, with friends, family, and sometimes even in romance.
August 5, 2022
Ladies and Gentlemen I am proud to announce that this book has the perfect Book Boyfriend. If you think I am exaggerating then pick the book up yourself so you can prove me right. Lets talk...
Katie going back to her hometown, where she grew up but left for college and bigger things and now hardly comes back. Well she finds herself in town for a friends wedding, and because you cant say NO to the bride, she finds herself with the plus one of her ex-boyfriend. Chase. The man she let get away 10 years prior because they went to different schools and she didn't want to do long distance.
One thing I loved most about this book is the flashbacks we get so that we can see everything that happened when they were dating and back in high school.
In the flashbacks we see how much Katie desired to be in the big city and have a career. But as she returns home and starts to hang out with her mother and sister compared to the time and crazy hours she works and the ungrateful demanding boss she starts to think is it all worth it...
This book is fast pace and sweet. It does get a little emotional so you may find yourself in tears towards the end. But overall a very enjoyable read.
Katie going back to her hometown, where she grew up but left for college and bigger things and now hardly comes back. Well she finds herself in town for a friends wedding, and because you cant say NO to the bride, she finds herself with the plus one of her ex-boyfriend. Chase. The man she let get away 10 years prior because they went to different schools and she didn't want to do long distance.
One thing I loved most about this book is the flashbacks we get so that we can see everything that happened when they were dating and back in high school.
In the flashbacks we see how much Katie desired to be in the big city and have a career. But as she returns home and starts to hang out with her mother and sister compared to the time and crazy hours she works and the ungrateful demanding boss she starts to think is it all worth it...
This book is fast pace and sweet. It does get a little emotional so you may find yourself in tears towards the end. But overall a very enjoyable read.
August 6, 2022
This time around is about a girl named Katie who comes home to attend a wedding. While there she gets roped into attending the wedding with another single guest. The only problem is, her date is her ex boyfriend. A boy she loved and never quite got over. A boy whose heart she broke 10 years before. A boy named Chase, who is not a boy any longer and is raising his orphaned nephew. He has grown into a handsome man and Katie can’t help but notice. Katie is not the only one who has not gotten over the relationship of the past, but Chase also carries some bitterness from the past and the way Katie broke his heart. After the wedding the two realize they still have feelings for eachother but how could they possibly make it work? Katie has to get back to work and Chase can’t uproot his nephew to be closer to her.
I really liked this book. It has a great story and you can get lost in the pages. The only reason I took off a star is because there are a couple parts where the story seems to go off track giving information that, while important, doesn’t fit in the moment. Other than those couple parts, the story was fantastic and I would definitely recommend it.
I really liked this book. It has a great story and you can get lost in the pages. The only reason I took off a star is because there are a couple parts where the story seems to go off track giving information that, while important, doesn’t fit in the moment. Other than those couple parts, the story was fantastic and I would definitely recommend it.
August 3, 2022
Katie and Chase were high school sweet hearts. They planned to go off to college together, but when they each get accepted into different colleges plans changed. Katie breaks it off as Chase is proposing and leaves town. Now ten years have gone by and they haven't spoken a word to each other. Katie has come home for a friend's wedding and the bride-to-be has put her foot down about couples only. The bride sets her up to be another single's plus one and it just so happens to be Chase! Talk about freak out! Now his plus one, to his cousin's wedding, she'll have to finally face him and all the past drama they never resolved. They have both moved on and built their lives. Katie rising up the cooperate ladder and Chase fathering an orphaned nephew. But now there worlds are colliding weather they like it or not! Will they be able to put the past behind them? Can they reconcile after ten years of hurt and moving on? This book read surprisingly fast. I sunk into it and finished it in a few hours. If you like small towns, romance, and a bit of drama this is a great book for all the above.
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