A Novel by Poppy St. James, Published July 2021
* An e-ARC was provided by Booksprout and the author for an honest review. 
Second Chance Summer by Poppy St. James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
SECOND CHANCE SUMMER by Poppy St. James is a warm, engaging story about a girl from New York trying to escape an unwanted marriage and a boy from Shady Grove TX needing a fresh chance at love. Charlotte Freemont runs away from her wedding right before going down the aisle. She's heading to L.A. to live with her best friend Valentina, but her Audi breaks down in Shady Grove TX on a Sunday, meaning no mechanic’s on the job. Luke Wilder's been left before, first by his mom when he was little, and then by his last girlfriend, so he's not too interested in getting involved with the woman whose busted car dropped her in his hometown. She's just going to leave when her car gets fixed anyway. Besides he thinks she's a snob and she things he's arrogant, so why bother?
PROS:
1. The main characters are interesting and likeable, and they each work through problems, such as trusting in others, believing in yourself, and making your own choices, and grow throughout the story.
2. The supporting cast is fairly unique and fun, particularly the petite and goth-like stylist Audrey, who gives Charlotte a more positive view of Luke, making Charlotte reconsider her initial opinion of him.
3. The book moves along at a good pace. A lot happens within a couple of weeks, but it’s enough time for Charlotte and Luke to develop trust and enjoy being with each other.
4. The story’s told in first person, past tense, and the chapters alternate between Luke’s POV and Charlotte’s POV.
5. The wonderful cover reflects the tone of the story and pulled me in right away.
6. The author’s name. Seriously, it’s awesome! That alone made me want to check the book out. And her style of writing ensures I’ll want to read her future stories.
CONS:
1. A lot happens within a couple of weeks. I’m not the biggest fan of insta-love or quick love, but I can suspend belief for a good, fun story (like I think this is).
2. The ending (before the Epilogue) seems a little rushed. A meatier ending would have been more satisfying to me.
SUMMARY:
SECOND CHANCE SUMMER is a lighthearted, quick story and perfect as a beach read. The main characters and supporting cast are well-written and likeable, and they tackle themes of trust in others, self-confidence, and freedom to make your own decisions. I would definitely recommend this story to others, particularly those who like character-driven stories, and look forward to reading more books by Poppy St. James.
IF YOU LIKE THIS, YOU MIGHT LIKE:
Upcoming books BEAUTY AND THE BRIT and ROMANCING HIS RIVAL by Poppy St. James, the MAGNOLIA SOUND and the SHAUGHNESSY BROTHERS series by Samantha Chase, the BLUE MOON and the RILEY THORN series by Lucy Score, the ST. HELENA VINEYARD and the EASTONS series by Marina Adair
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