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A Year of Second Chances
Charlie is a single mum unlucky in life. Her multiple jobs make barely enough to feed the family cat, never mind being able to give her son the life he deserves. So when an opportunity to make a lot of cash comes along, she simply has to take it. Suzie has always wanted to be a mother. But fate has been cruel and now time is running out. Soon her final frozen egg will be destroyed and her last chance of having a baby will go with it. With her husband resolved to their childless life Suzie takes matters into her own hands. Dawn is about to turn fifty and seems to have misplaced her mojo along with the car keys. But with an interfering mother-in-law and a gaggle of judgemental mums at her children’s school, it’s proving harder to find than a decent fitting bra. Especially after a series of highly embarrassing incidents... Over the course of a year three lives are about to collide and as they do be prepared to laugh, cry and fall in love with these women as they discover how life can give you a second chance. Perfect for fans of Lucy Diamond, Marian Keyes, Sophie Kinsella and Paige Toon.
492 pages, Paperback
Published June 20, 2019
17 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Kendra Smith
4 books5 followersKendra Smith is a freelance journalist with over 20 years’ experience in publishing. She started her career in Sydney selling advertising space and has lived and worked in London and Sydney, working for titles such as Cosmopolitan, OK! and the BBC’s Eve. Born in Singapore and educated in Scotland, she now lives in Surrey, juggling her novel writing with the schedules of three very busy boys. She is an author with Aria Fiction https://ariafiction.com and has signed a four book deal with them
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 20, 2019
A Year of Second Chances by Kendra Smith nearly lost me at the very start. So many things annoyed me, so even I am surprised that by the end of the book, that everything had picked up sufficiently for to reverse my initial doubts.
What Bothered Me
- Two characters were shoplifters. One because she was trying to spice up turning 50. I was staring at the page thinking WHAT!
- Then there was inaccuracy about how long an IVF procedure would be.
- A child knew how to pronounce cleavage cos “she heard mummy use the word when she was on-line shopping”. HOW do you hear online shopping. Urrggh.
So I very nearly put down the book and moved on. But something stopped me, I still felt the book had potential.
And the more I read, the more I enjoyed the characters, their various journeys and the laughs, cries and screaming matches they had together. I could relate to the themes about infertility and getting older and wanting more. The mix of characters added balance as they all were at such different stages in life, but united in their yearning to achieve their dreams.
I thought the author made me feel emotional as I read. And I had a few laughs, and surprises along the way. So despite the very rocky start, I’m glad I read this one.
WHO SHOULD READ A YEAR OF SECOND CHANCES BY KENDRA SMITH?
If you would be annoyed by the things I listed, then I don’t recommend this book. If however you are looking for a fun read, that also tackles emotional issues, then maybe this one would be for you.
What Bothered Me
- Two characters were shoplifters. One because she was trying to spice up turning 50. I was staring at the page thinking WHAT!
- Then there was inaccuracy about how long an IVF procedure would be.
- A child knew how to pronounce cleavage cos “she heard mummy use the word when she was on-line shopping”. HOW do you hear online shopping. Urrggh.
So I very nearly put down the book and moved on. But something stopped me, I still felt the book had potential.
And the more I read, the more I enjoyed the characters, their various journeys and the laughs, cries and screaming matches they had together. I could relate to the themes about infertility and getting older and wanting more. The mix of characters added balance as they all were at such different stages in life, but united in their yearning to achieve their dreams.
I thought the author made me feel emotional as I read. And I had a few laughs, and surprises along the way. So despite the very rocky start, I’m glad I read this one.
WHO SHOULD READ A YEAR OF SECOND CHANCES BY KENDRA SMITH?
If you would be annoyed by the things I listed, then I don’t recommend this book. If however you are looking for a fun read, that also tackles emotional issues, then maybe this one would be for you.
June 30, 2019
An unexpected read with a deep sensitivity about 3 women and their lives and the way their friendship blossomed overcoming all their problems.
CHARLIE had financial problems and with her son's growing needs, she was fed up with all the debts and the paucity, a vicious cycle that her life had become. She soon agreed to a secretive plot. SUZIE was obsessed with wanting her own child, soon hatched a plot to make it a reality when she got a call from the IVF center about her last embryo. DAWN was approaching 50 and had her own problems with the other mums and mother-in-law and her husband. He seemed to have lost interest in her and disappeared every Friday evening.
My first book by author Kendra Smith, I was soon engrossed in the lives of these women. I loved the way the author had characterized them. They were so different yet with similar needs of wanting to be happy. Their paths crossed, they became the best of friends, and sometimes foes, yet got back together. The thread of hope was weaved beautifully into this book. My niggles popped up, the book was a bit too long and some parts read slow.
Overall, a great women's fiction that I enjoyed on a rainy evening.
CHARLIE had financial problems and with her son's growing needs, she was fed up with all the debts and the paucity, a vicious cycle that her life had become. She soon agreed to a secretive plot. SUZIE was obsessed with wanting her own child, soon hatched a plot to make it a reality when she got a call from the IVF center about her last embryo. DAWN was approaching 50 and had her own problems with the other mums and mother-in-law and her husband. He seemed to have lost interest in her and disappeared every Friday evening.
My first book by author Kendra Smith, I was soon engrossed in the lives of these women. I loved the way the author had characterized them. They were so different yet with similar needs of wanting to be happy. Their paths crossed, they became the best of friends, and sometimes foes, yet got back together. The thread of hope was weaved beautifully into this book. My niggles popped up, the book was a bit too long and some parts read slow.
Overall, a great women's fiction that I enjoyed on a rainy evening.
July 3, 2019
The Blurb :
Three women. Three very different lives. One life changing adventure.
Charlie is a single mum unlucky in life. She's working multiple jobs just to try and put food on the table. She dreams of being able to give her son the life he deserves. So when an opportunity to make a lot of cash comes along, she simply has to take it.
Suzie has always wanted to be a mother. But fate has been cruel and now time is running out. Soon her final frozen egg will be destroyed and her last chance of having a baby will go with it. With her husband resigned to their childless lives Suzie will take matters into her own hands.
Dawn has hit a midlife crisis. Soon to be fifty she's trying to inject the fun back into her life. But with an interfering mother-in-law and judgemental mums at her children's school it's proving harder than it looks.
Over the course of a year three lives are about to collide and as they do, friendships blossom and new beginnings emerge.
My Thoughts :
In A Year of Second Chances we meet three women who are very different.
First is Charlie, who is in a lot of debt and really struggling with life and being a single mum to her son. She needs money and fast.
Next is Suzie, who is married and desperately wants a child but is unable to make that happen herself. She thinks she may need to resort to drastic measures to get what she wants.
Lastly we have Dawn, fast approaching her 50th birthday and is fed up with life and an interfering mother in law that questions everything she does, Dawn decides she wants things to change.
Here we have three very different women who all want something, when they meet can they make it happen or are things meant to stay the same?!.
It did take me a little while to get into the stories and their lives as it jumps around with each character so you get a little confused as to who you are reading about. But its worth sticking with as we follow the trials and tribulations of these women. Full of love and friendships, this is a book worth taking the time out to read. Looking forward to more from Kendra Smith.
Three women. Three very different lives. One life changing adventure.
Charlie is a single mum unlucky in life. She's working multiple jobs just to try and put food on the table. She dreams of being able to give her son the life he deserves. So when an opportunity to make a lot of cash comes along, she simply has to take it.
Suzie has always wanted to be a mother. But fate has been cruel and now time is running out. Soon her final frozen egg will be destroyed and her last chance of having a baby will go with it. With her husband resigned to their childless lives Suzie will take matters into her own hands.
Dawn has hit a midlife crisis. Soon to be fifty she's trying to inject the fun back into her life. But with an interfering mother-in-law and judgemental mums at her children's school it's proving harder than it looks.
Over the course of a year three lives are about to collide and as they do, friendships blossom and new beginnings emerge.
My Thoughts :
In A Year of Second Chances we meet three women who are very different.
First is Charlie, who is in a lot of debt and really struggling with life and being a single mum to her son. She needs money and fast.
Next is Suzie, who is married and desperately wants a child but is unable to make that happen herself. She thinks she may need to resort to drastic measures to get what she wants.
Lastly we have Dawn, fast approaching her 50th birthday and is fed up with life and an interfering mother in law that questions everything she does, Dawn decides she wants things to change.
Here we have three very different women who all want something, when they meet can they make it happen or are things meant to stay the same?!.
It did take me a little while to get into the stories and their lives as it jumps around with each character so you get a little confused as to who you are reading about. But its worth sticking with as we follow the trials and tribulations of these women. Full of love and friendships, this is a book worth taking the time out to read. Looking forward to more from Kendra Smith.
June 27, 2019
I don’t even know where to start with this review...
You know what vague-booking is? *nods* Well, I’m about to chance my arm at vague-reviewing. Trust me, this is more for your benefit than mine. There is nothing worse than someone spoiling a story before you’ve even picked the book up! *shakes head* Perish the thought.
Prepare yourself for an emotional journey – one that had me questioning what I would’ve done in either of these three ladies’ shoes. What is it they say? – Walk a mile in my shoes before you judge me.
*sigh*
It took me a few chapters to get into the story, but once I did, I couldn’t put it down. I was engrossed in each of the character’s individual stories and how they interconnected. ‘Six degrees of separation’ kept repeating in my head.
I’m also sitting here laughing at myself looking at my highlighted notes in the book. They are all Daniel *blushes* I’ll admit he left an impression *coughs*
One thing he said in particular resonated with me:
“I’ve always thought that events in life can be for a reason, that you meet people when you are meant to.”
Amen to that!
Without each other, I think the outcomes for Charlie, Dawn and Suzie would have been very different. It’s their dynamic that works.
The author was very clever in her use of light and shade in the story. As the tension mounted, you’d be hit with an unexpected bout of hilarity. Little Alice was the absolute scene-stealer for me. I must admit I was cursed with the same affliction as a child. They didn’t call me ‘Loppy Lugs’ in my house for nothing *snorts*
This is a story of life, love and friendships. Life isn’t always sunshine and roses and sometimes we have to walk a different path than the one we envisaged, but some things are just worth the extra effort.
I’m a firm believer that friends are the family we choose for ourselves. I think Charlie, Dawn and Suzie are a testament to that fact.
Ugh, too many emotions *wipes tear*
I look forward to reading more by Kendra Smith soon.
You know what vague-booking is? *nods* Well, I’m about to chance my arm at vague-reviewing. Trust me, this is more for your benefit than mine. There is nothing worse than someone spoiling a story before you’ve even picked the book up! *shakes head* Perish the thought.
Prepare yourself for an emotional journey – one that had me questioning what I would’ve done in either of these three ladies’ shoes. What is it they say? – Walk a mile in my shoes before you judge me.
*sigh*
It took me a few chapters to get into the story, but once I did, I couldn’t put it down. I was engrossed in each of the character’s individual stories and how they interconnected. ‘Six degrees of separation’ kept repeating in my head.
I’m also sitting here laughing at myself looking at my highlighted notes in the book. They are all Daniel *blushes* I’ll admit he left an impression *coughs*
One thing he said in particular resonated with me:
“I’ve always thought that events in life can be for a reason, that you meet people when you are meant to.”
Amen to that!
Without each other, I think the outcomes for Charlie, Dawn and Suzie would have been very different. It’s their dynamic that works.
The author was very clever in her use of light and shade in the story. As the tension mounted, you’d be hit with an unexpected bout of hilarity. Little Alice was the absolute scene-stealer for me. I must admit I was cursed with the same affliction as a child. They didn’t call me ‘Loppy Lugs’ in my house for nothing *snorts*
This is a story of life, love and friendships. Life isn’t always sunshine and roses and sometimes we have to walk a different path than the one we envisaged, but some things are just worth the extra effort.
I’m a firm believer that friends are the family we choose for ourselves. I think Charlie, Dawn and Suzie are a testament to that fact.
Ugh, too many emotions *wipes tear*
I look forward to reading more by Kendra Smith soon.
May 27, 2019
Three women come together during gym sessions. There's single mum Charlie who works multiple jobs, Dawn who is the oldest of the group at 50 and Susie who is trying fight for her wish to be a mum.
The chapters were very short but I felt the author did not give me time to get to know the characters as there was not enough atmosphere and backstory to make me really love the novel.
I felt like the characters could have been fleshed out a lot more as the small bits of information about each of them were interesting but then I wanted to know more about them and really feel for them and feel like I was taken on their journeys, living their lives and feeling what they felt. but that did not happen for me.
There were a few funny parts but I felt the synopsis sounded better than the book itself turned out to be.
This is the second title by Kendra Smith that I have reviewed.
Thanks to Kendra Smith and Aria for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. 3 stars.
The chapters were very short but I felt the author did not give me time to get to know the characters as there was not enough atmosphere and backstory to make me really love the novel.
I felt like the characters could have been fleshed out a lot more as the small bits of information about each of them were interesting but then I wanted to know more about them and really feel for them and feel like I was taken on their journeys, living their lives and feeling what they felt. but that did not happen for me.
There were a few funny parts but I felt the synopsis sounded better than the book itself turned out to be.
This is the second title by Kendra Smith that I have reviewed.
Thanks to Kendra Smith and Aria for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. 3 stars.
May 3, 2019
If you are looking for a light, easy read for a summer vacation this book will be just right for you.
There are 3 main characters who all connect via the gym, 2 are friends and one works in the cafe. But a driving obsession of Suzie, the beautiful, elegant, rich friend pulls all 3 together to form a fragile bond. Charlie is a single mum with money problems and a 17 year old with big dreams. She finds a solution to her money woes but struggles with the emotional responses it brings her and the domineering nature of Suzie leaves Charlie wondering what she has done and if she can go through with it. Then there's Dawn, hitting 50 and worrying she has let life pass her by. She tries to spice her life up with disasterous consequences,
The characters were a bit one dimensional and got rather irritating as the book went on. They had the same thoughts over and over and I wanted to rage at them to sort themselves out. More depth to their storylines may have helped me understand why they made the same mistakes and thought the same things constantly. And every character in the book was terrible at communicating. I appreciate that was needed for the storyline but I would have liked to see more skill from the author to weave in the plot line without having to resort to people who don't talk to each other. But, that's a small detail and this is a first novel and overall it doesn't spoil the read.
Thank you Netgalley for the advanced copy. This is my honest review.
There are 3 main characters who all connect via the gym, 2 are friends and one works in the cafe. But a driving obsession of Suzie, the beautiful, elegant, rich friend pulls all 3 together to form a fragile bond. Charlie is a single mum with money problems and a 17 year old with big dreams. She finds a solution to her money woes but struggles with the emotional responses it brings her and the domineering nature of Suzie leaves Charlie wondering what she has done and if she can go through with it. Then there's Dawn, hitting 50 and worrying she has let life pass her by. She tries to spice her life up with disasterous consequences,
The characters were a bit one dimensional and got rather irritating as the book went on. They had the same thoughts over and over and I wanted to rage at them to sort themselves out. More depth to their storylines may have helped me understand why they made the same mistakes and thought the same things constantly. And every character in the book was terrible at communicating. I appreciate that was needed for the storyline but I would have liked to see more skill from the author to weave in the plot line without having to resort to people who don't talk to each other. But, that's a small detail and this is a first novel and overall it doesn't spoil the read.
Thank you Netgalley for the advanced copy. This is my honest review.
October 28, 2019
A Year of Second Chances is the story of three women who come together to support one another through the challenges that life sometimes brings us. Charlie is a single mother who has given her son all that she can, despite financial difficulties. Suzie has achieved success in the business world, but would trade it all for the chance to have a baby of her own. After years of trying, she determines it's time to take responsibility to ensure this dream will come true. Dawn is about to turn 50 and feels that all the joy in her life has been taken away. She needs to make her life more exciting. The year to come is sure to bring about a lot of changes to each of these women.
I enjoyed the humour in this book and the relationships which developed between the women. Despite these beneficial relationships, Kendra Smith also shows a negative, competitive nature to female relationships which I'm sure that most women have experienced at some point in their lives. . I loved the character of Ramone (and his special brownies) and wish that everyone could have a Ramone in their life when needed.
This is a fun, easy read. I'd rate it 4/5 stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and Aria publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the humour in this book and the relationships which developed between the women. Despite these beneficial relationships, Kendra Smith also shows a negative, competitive nature to female relationships which I'm sure that most women have experienced at some point in their lives. . I loved the character of Ramone (and his special brownies) and wish that everyone could have a Ramone in their life when needed.
This is a fun, easy read. I'd rate it 4/5 stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and Aria publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2019
Three different women with one thing in common.... they all feel like their lives are missing something. Charlie is a single mother of seventeen year old Tyler. She has multiple part time jobs, but never enough money and some of the people she owes are coming to collect. She needs money... so much money.
Dawn has a husband she adores and two great kids... along with an interfering mother in law and a fiftieth birthday coming far too quickly. There's so much she hasn't done (and she found a list on line to prove it)! How can she be this old and never shoplifted? Never had sex in the shower? Her husband is far from supportive of her new adventures... in fact he stays out later and seems far more preoccupied lately. Could it be another woman?!?
Suzie loves her life as a business woman... she really does. And she loves her husband. All her life, though, she's wanted a baby. And her body betrays her. Now they have one last chance- a final frozen embryo. Oh, she knows she and Rex said they'd stop after last time... but this time will be different. This time a third person- a surrogate- will be carrying her baby. It should all be easy. She finds a woman, Rex is on board, they pay the surrogate.... what could go wrong? Just... everything.
As the three go through these adventures together, they learn to lean on one another, and to grow. So much can happen in a year...
This book is broken into three narratives- one for each of the above women. I immediately felt for Charlie and Dawn- even though both were doing things I couldn't agree with. I felt their pain, and I easily began rooting for them. Suzie was a bit harder for me. Our first scene with her sets us up to be big supporters, but she's such a harsh and controlling character through most of the book that it's hard to love her. None of these characters are "perfect" and I loved their flaws- I also loved that you could really see character growth.
Romance wise, we mostly stayed with Charlie and Daniel, and old friend of Dawn's who had left the country ages ago after his wife died. Both are a little nervous about letting people in, and both have huge secrets.... but I loved watching them together. Even with all the misunderstandings, their chemistry seemed very natural and sweet.
The flow of the writing was good, even with multiple points of view it never seemed choppy, and it would have been easy to tell which voice belonged to which character even without the chapter headers. I loved the premise here, and how the author wove the lives together. This was a sweet, fast read for me. I couldn't put it down! Five stars for sure!!
On the adult content scale, there's drinking, language and some sexual content. Nothing over the top, but still... I give it a five.
I was lucky enough to receive and eARC of this book from Netgalley and Aria publishing in exchange for an honest review. My thanks!
Dawn has a husband she adores and two great kids... along with an interfering mother in law and a fiftieth birthday coming far too quickly. There's so much she hasn't done (and she found a list on line to prove it)! How can she be this old and never shoplifted? Never had sex in the shower? Her husband is far from supportive of her new adventures... in fact he stays out later and seems far more preoccupied lately. Could it be another woman?!?
Suzie loves her life as a business woman... she really does. And she loves her husband. All her life, though, she's wanted a baby. And her body betrays her. Now they have one last chance- a final frozen embryo. Oh, she knows she and Rex said they'd stop after last time... but this time will be different. This time a third person- a surrogate- will be carrying her baby. It should all be easy. She finds a woman, Rex is on board, they pay the surrogate.... what could go wrong? Just... everything.
As the three go through these adventures together, they learn to lean on one another, and to grow. So much can happen in a year...
This book is broken into three narratives- one for each of the above women. I immediately felt for Charlie and Dawn- even though both were doing things I couldn't agree with. I felt their pain, and I easily began rooting for them. Suzie was a bit harder for me. Our first scene with her sets us up to be big supporters, but she's such a harsh and controlling character through most of the book that it's hard to love her. None of these characters are "perfect" and I loved their flaws- I also loved that you could really see character growth.
Romance wise, we mostly stayed with Charlie and Daniel, and old friend of Dawn's who had left the country ages ago after his wife died. Both are a little nervous about letting people in, and both have huge secrets.... but I loved watching them together. Even with all the misunderstandings, their chemistry seemed very natural and sweet.
The flow of the writing was good, even with multiple points of view it never seemed choppy, and it would have been easy to tell which voice belonged to which character even without the chapter headers. I loved the premise here, and how the author wove the lives together. This was a sweet, fast read for me. I couldn't put it down! Five stars for sure!!
On the adult content scale, there's drinking, language and some sexual content. Nothing over the top, but still... I give it a five.
I was lucky enough to receive and eARC of this book from Netgalley and Aria publishing in exchange for an honest review. My thanks!
May 16, 2019
**I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
A Year of Second Chances is a great weekend, beach, or holidy read! The friendship between Dawn, Suzie, and Charlie is complex and takes on new and different aspects over the course of the book. Although they are very different from one another you can see why they would be friends.
Dawn is the the connecting force that keeps the group together, but I loved that she wasn't perfect. Sometimes her mistakes were funny and sometimes they were more serious. Suzie's obsession with becoming a mother was exhausting, but I never felt it was over done or out of the realm of believability. Her problems with Rex during all of this felt grounded in reality as well. Charlie is the newcomer to the group, but once she allowed herself to be a part of Dawn and Suzie's lives she started to become more of the person I think she always wanted to be. I probably liked her story the most, but I found myself relating to each of them at different parts of the book.
The misunderstandings and complications between each of the women and the man in their life were the types that could have been solved had they been able to have open and honest conversations with one another (but that would have made for a very short book). While that aspect became frustrating over time, when I took a step back I remembered how difficult those types of conversations can be; no one wants to put themselves out there to be rejected or have their dreams trampled on. It's also so natural for us to put the worst possible spin on a situation, and at some point Dawn, Suzie, and Charlie each do just that.
I thought the story moved at a good pace and I never got bored with anyone's storylines. The ending was perfect and well earned for each of the characters.
A Year of Second Chances is a great weekend, beach, or holidy read! The friendship between Dawn, Suzie, and Charlie is complex and takes on new and different aspects over the course of the book. Although they are very different from one another you can see why they would be friends.
Dawn is the the connecting force that keeps the group together, but I loved that she wasn't perfect. Sometimes her mistakes were funny and sometimes they were more serious. Suzie's obsession with becoming a mother was exhausting, but I never felt it was over done or out of the realm of believability. Her problems with Rex during all of this felt grounded in reality as well. Charlie is the newcomer to the group, but once she allowed herself to be a part of Dawn and Suzie's lives she started to become more of the person I think she always wanted to be. I probably liked her story the most, but I found myself relating to each of them at different parts of the book.
The misunderstandings and complications between each of the women and the man in their life were the types that could have been solved had they been able to have open and honest conversations with one another (but that would have made for a very short book). While that aspect became frustrating over time, when I took a step back I remembered how difficult those types of conversations can be; no one wants to put themselves out there to be rejected or have their dreams trampled on. It's also so natural for us to put the worst possible spin on a situation, and at some point Dawn, Suzie, and Charlie each do just that.
I thought the story moved at a good pace and I never got bored with anyone's storylines. The ending was perfect and well earned for each of the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2019
**RATING 3.5** - I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley.
If you like an entertaining story that has plenty of fun while also dealing with sensitive topics, A YEAR OF SECOND CHANCES by Kendra Smith is the right book for you.
Three strangers with three very different lifestyles and very different problems, suddenly find their lives converging at the strangest of times which results in an adventure that just might change their lives.
Charlie is struggling to keep things together for herself and her teenage son and, with debt collectors at the door, she knows that things can only get worse. So when an opportunity arises, she has to take it, right?
All Suzie wants is to be a mother and she is angry, so angry, that this has been denied to her. With time running out, she knows that she has to do something drastic and fast.
And then there is Dawn who seems to have a lovely settled life with her relaxed husband and her children. But she feels a little lost and with her 'perfect' mother-in-law always there to tell her how she could do things better, Dawn feels like she needs to broaden her horizons before she explodes.
With plenty of drama, laughs, and emotion, A YEAR OF SECOND CHANCES by Kendra Smith is a gentle story that is sure to charm you, and while the characters and their antics are not always realistic, they are engaging and I enjoyed this story.
If you like an entertaining story that has plenty of fun while also dealing with sensitive topics, A YEAR OF SECOND CHANCES by Kendra Smith is the right book for you.
Three strangers with three very different lifestyles and very different problems, suddenly find their lives converging at the strangest of times which results in an adventure that just might change their lives.
Charlie is struggling to keep things together for herself and her teenage son and, with debt collectors at the door, she knows that things can only get worse. So when an opportunity arises, she has to take it, right?
All Suzie wants is to be a mother and she is angry, so angry, that this has been denied to her. With time running out, she knows that she has to do something drastic and fast.
And then there is Dawn who seems to have a lovely settled life with her relaxed husband and her children. But she feels a little lost and with her 'perfect' mother-in-law always there to tell her how she could do things better, Dawn feels like she needs to broaden her horizons before she explodes.
With plenty of drama, laughs, and emotion, A YEAR OF SECOND CHANCES by Kendra Smith is a gentle story that is sure to charm you, and while the characters and their antics are not always realistic, they are engaging and I enjoyed this story.
June 17, 2019
3.5 stars
Probab;y i had a bit of too many expectations from this book but i did finish it and by the end, i don't regret it.
A fun at times, sad as well at times and a lot of different emotions and feelings overall, this book talks about three women at different stages of their lives are coming together as friends by a chance encounter.
Each one has her life and things to overcome as well as her dreams to fulfil. I liked that they are supporting each other in this and are feeling comfortable enough to talk about it even if they aren't friends for a long time and don't know each other's secrets or life very well.
the book treats some very important issues like infertility and how much some couples are struggling to become parents.
There are some inaccuracies that unfortunately i couldn't pass over as well as some sketchy things that the characters are doing but at the end, i thought is normal because nobody is perfect and we read or see this in the news every day.
It's a fast read for sure, i would've wanted to read more about each character, to be developed more as of their growth after all the action that occurs in the story but this won't deter me to read another book from the author.
Probab;y i had a bit of too many expectations from this book but i did finish it and by the end, i don't regret it.
A fun at times, sad as well at times and a lot of different emotions and feelings overall, this book talks about three women at different stages of their lives are coming together as friends by a chance encounter.
Each one has her life and things to overcome as well as her dreams to fulfil. I liked that they are supporting each other in this and are feeling comfortable enough to talk about it even if they aren't friends for a long time and don't know each other's secrets or life very well.
the book treats some very important issues like infertility and how much some couples are struggling to become parents.
There are some inaccuracies that unfortunately i couldn't pass over as well as some sketchy things that the characters are doing but at the end, i thought is normal because nobody is perfect and we read or see this in the news every day.
It's a fast read for sure, i would've wanted to read more about each character, to be developed more as of their growth after all the action that occurs in the story but this won't deter me to read another book from the author.
June 22, 2019
A very observant and quite touching novel about three women, their lives, families and friendships.
Charlie is a single mother doing her best to get by - and not managing it at all. Suzie is desperate for children, but she and her husband have fertility issues. Dawn is fast approaching the big 5-0 and desperately wants to bring some zing back into her marriage; so far she's not reaching that goal. Three women who all need a fairy godmother .. or are there other answers to their problems out there?
This is an all-encompassing novel; the kind of book - and I may just be talking from experience here - that you take to bed assuming you'll just read a little bit and before you know it you're hooked! Beautifully written, and completely engrossing; a lovely story about hopes and dreams and the different ways to accomplish them. Three completely different women whose lives become entangled and we are privy to their thoughts and fears. Cleverly structured, I felt like a fourth invisible friend - in on all the secrets! There are a few unexpected events along the way, adding to the story and keeping the reader on their toes. A thoroughly entertaining and worthwhile read, and definitely worth a full five stars.
Charlie is a single mother doing her best to get by - and not managing it at all. Suzie is desperate for children, but she and her husband have fertility issues. Dawn is fast approaching the big 5-0 and desperately wants to bring some zing back into her marriage; so far she's not reaching that goal. Three women who all need a fairy godmother .. or are there other answers to their problems out there?
This is an all-encompassing novel; the kind of book - and I may just be talking from experience here - that you take to bed assuming you'll just read a little bit and before you know it you're hooked! Beautifully written, and completely engrossing; a lovely story about hopes and dreams and the different ways to accomplish them. Three completely different women whose lives become entangled and we are privy to their thoughts and fears. Cleverly structured, I felt like a fourth invisible friend - in on all the secrets! There are a few unexpected events along the way, adding to the story and keeping the reader on their toes. A thoroughly entertaining and worthwhile read, and definitely worth a full five stars.
June 27, 2019
Three women, with little in common, except they are all at a point in their lives where something has to change. Charlie a single mum is in debt, working all hours, and still cannot make ends meet. Suzie is facing infertility issues, and her partner doesn’t share her urgency to take the last chance left to them. Dawn is nearly fifty and is struggling to give her future life meaning.
The start shows the disparity between Charlie and Dawn’s situations, but it also highlights their desperation and willingness to take drastic action. This makes the decisions they take as the story progresses more realistic than they would otherwise have been.
The characters are slightly stereotypical, but this doesn’t detract from the situations they find themselves, and the genuine emotions they feel. It is this emotion that makes the story worthwhile. There are lighter moments, but this is poignant read.
It’s not a story to dip in and out of, you need to stick with it to appreciate its impact. I did, and it is a satisfying, ultimately hopeful book.
I received a copy of this book from Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The start shows the disparity between Charlie and Dawn’s situations, but it also highlights their desperation and willingness to take drastic action. This makes the decisions they take as the story progresses more realistic than they would otherwise have been.
The characters are slightly stereotypical, but this doesn’t detract from the situations they find themselves, and the genuine emotions they feel. It is this emotion that makes the story worthwhile. There are lighter moments, but this is poignant read.
It’s not a story to dip in and out of, you need to stick with it to appreciate its impact. I did, and it is a satisfying, ultimately hopeful book.
I received a copy of this book from Aria via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
March 6, 2020
I really enjoyed A Year of Second Chances which features the lives of three very different women who are all struggling or missing something in their lives.
Suzie and Dawn have been friends since university, they meet Charlie who is a cleaner at the gym they attend. Dawn is approaching fifty and craves some excitement in her life, Suzie is heartbroken after several failed fertility treatments and Charlie has a loan shark knocking at her door.
Charlie and Suzie come up with a plan that could be beneficial to them both. Meanwhile, Dawn is on a mission to come out of her comfort zone (with hilarious consequences). A blast from the past reappears who causes Suzie’s heart to flutter and an extrovert mother in law gives Dawn some major headaches.
I loved the Spanish au pair Ramone who is studying English and makes ‘special’ brownies. There is literally something for everyone in this story, the characters are hugely relatable and there are plenty of shocks and surprises along the way. My heart went out to each of the women at different times, I loved the friendship, the humour, and the romance. A lovely escapist novel from a talented author.
Suzie and Dawn have been friends since university, they meet Charlie who is a cleaner at the gym they attend. Dawn is approaching fifty and craves some excitement in her life, Suzie is heartbroken after several failed fertility treatments and Charlie has a loan shark knocking at her door.
Charlie and Suzie come up with a plan that could be beneficial to them both. Meanwhile, Dawn is on a mission to come out of her comfort zone (with hilarious consequences). A blast from the past reappears who causes Suzie’s heart to flutter and an extrovert mother in law gives Dawn some major headaches.
I loved the Spanish au pair Ramone who is studying English and makes ‘special’ brownies. There is literally something for everyone in this story, the characters are hugely relatable and there are plenty of shocks and surprises along the way. My heart went out to each of the women at different times, I loved the friendship, the humour, and the romance. A lovely escapist novel from a talented author.
June 14, 2019
I recieved an early copy of this book from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I have not read any books by this author before, but the cover appealed to me, so I decided to read it.
The book has short chapters, each one about one of the three different characters, Dawn, who is turning 50, and struggling with getting older. Charlie, who is a struggling single mother. Suzie is struggling with infertility.
I found it hard going at the beginning of the book to remember who each character was. I also thought that the book was difficult to get into at first. I persevered, and the book picked up pace. From the middle of the book onwards, I found it more interesting and started to get into the storyline.
In the end I enjoyed reading this book, and was pleased that I finished it. I will look out for more books by this author.
I have not read any books by this author before, but the cover appealed to me, so I decided to read it.
The book has short chapters, each one about one of the three different characters, Dawn, who is turning 50, and struggling with getting older. Charlie, who is a struggling single mother. Suzie is struggling with infertility.
I found it hard going at the beginning of the book to remember who each character was. I also thought that the book was difficult to get into at first. I persevered, and the book picked up pace. From the middle of the book onwards, I found it more interesting and started to get into the storyline.
In the end I enjoyed reading this book, and was pleased that I finished it. I will look out for more books by this author.
July 25, 2020
The story of 3 very different women, Dawn is a mother of two lovely children but is approaching 50 and feels that she should do bucket life things.... but her husband isn't really going along with it, is he up to something? Suzie is desperate for children but has only one frozen egg left and her husband has become resigned to being childless..... maybe there are other ways! Charlie had had a tough life working loads of cleaning jobs trying to support her son as a single mother but where is she going to find the money to send him to college. When the three meet at the gym where Charlie cleans it seems they can all help each other out.
A lovely story with lots of great comedy moments and some great characters, I loved Ramone and his special brownies that he shared with Dawn's mother in law! Perfect light fun read for the beach
A lovely story with lots of great comedy moments and some great characters, I loved Ramone and his special brownies that he shared with Dawn's mother in law! Perfect light fun read for the beach
January 18, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. The story follows the lives of three women, each of which is dealing with a difficult time in their lives. Well written, the story flowed beautifully. I really liked each of the characters and how they developed throughout the story. There are plenty of twists and turns which keep the story interesting. The book is funny in places. A book full of friendships, family and relationships.
A perfect holiday read, I recommend this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
A perfect holiday read, I recommend this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
June 15, 2019
A light novel about three women- Charlie, Dawn, and Suzie- who are at different stages in life. They meet at a gym and share their pain and challenges. And their happiness- never forget that there will be happy moments too. Charlie's a single mom, Suzie's dealing with infertility, and Dawn's feeling, well old. You'll probably recognize yourself in at least one of them. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. It's a pleasant read for an afternoon on the patio.
June 29, 2019
I received “A Year of Second Chances” by author, Kendra Smith, from NetGallery in return for my true and honest review.
Charlie, Suzie and Dawn are the main characters who have very little in common when the story begins. They are at different stages in their lives. By chance, they meet each other and learn about each other’s problems. Thus begins their story of finding friendships, overcoming challenges and having hope.
I look forward to reading more books by Kendra Smith.
Charlie, Suzie and Dawn are the main characters who have very little in common when the story begins. They are at different stages in their lives. By chance, they meet each other and learn about each other’s problems. Thus begins their story of finding friendships, overcoming challenges and having hope.
I look forward to reading more books by Kendra Smith.
July 6, 2019
I liked this book very much!
There such sweetness floating within the characters. Even in the most dramatic moments, there's always hope .
Dawn, Suzie and Charlie are very courageous women fighting for what they want and need. Sometimes losing a bit of perspective, but recovering it in a wiser way.
I'd recommend this book with pleasure.
There such sweetness floating within the characters. Even in the most dramatic moments, there's always hope .
Dawn, Suzie and Charlie are very courageous women fighting for what they want and need. Sometimes losing a bit of perspective, but recovering it in a wiser way.
I'd recommend this book with pleasure.
August 18, 2019
Three women, 3 stories. A bit not believable. I put the book down about a quarter through it. I couldn’t relate and wondered how many avid readers could. After going back and reading other reviews, I went back and read more. Still disappointed, I gave up.
October 26, 2024
Heartfe!t and wonderful
Loved this novel and the three main characters in the novel. They complemented each other so well. I found all their journeys inspiring and at times eye opening. Thanks Kendra I also learnt a lot can't wait to read the next novel M xx
Loved this novel and the three main characters in the novel. They complemented each other so well. I found all their journeys inspiring and at times eye opening. Thanks Kendra I also learnt a lot can't wait to read the next novel M xx
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