Second Time's the Charm

De: Stephanie Rose

Narrado por: CJ Bloom, Alastair Haynesbridge

The only woman I've ever loved is the one I can't have.

Going from uncle to father overnight meant me moving back to my hometown after two decades away. Now, I'm trying to pick up the pieces and do right by a little girl who just wants her mom.

When my twentieth high school reunion rolls around, I come face-to-face with Emily, the ex whose heart I broke before she could break mine. Old feelings come rushing back, but I don't have time to grieve, let alone start a relationship.

Regardless of the palpable temptation to restore what we lost, all I can offer Emily is an apology and friendship.

But the lines I've drawn start to blur when she becomes my niece's soccer coach and I spend the entire season on the sidelines pretending I'm not wondering what might happen if we had a second chance.

Everything changes in one liquor-fueled night of confessions. I have no choice but to fight for Emily, for what we could have together. I've already wasted too much of my life without her in my arms, in my bed.

Maybe the second time's the charm…

©2024 Stephanie Rose (P)2024 Podium Audio

Sweet Second Chance

This story is more than a love story. It touches on forgiveness, trust, loss, grief, and the strength of family support and self-belief.
It is brought to life by C.J. Bloom and Alastair Haynesbridge - their narration is simply perfect!
It took Jesse and Emily 20 years to reunite after a heartbreaking split due to Jesse's fears. Now, Jesse has the chance to explain his actions, but he still struggles with self-worth. His priority is his niece, Maddie, but frequent encounters with Emily make it harder for him to resist. Fearing he might lose her again, Jesse takes a chance to prove he won't leave her this time. The roles reverse, and Jesse must wait for Emily's decision. The chemistry between Jesse and Emily is strong, and their journey from devastation to friendship, and eventually love, is touching. Maddie plays a crucial role, making the story even more emotional and heartwarming. Despite her loss, Maddie finds new 'parents' in Jesse and Emily. Emily's resilience and Jesse's determination show that with strong bonds, communication, and trust, one can achieve great things. The story isn't just a second chance for Jesse and Emily but also for Emily and Tessa through Maddie.

Beautiful second chance romance!

I was completely captivated by this slow-burn, second chance romance! Rose has the incredible ability to sweep me up into every story she writes. Her characters are so rich and authentic, I can't help but be drawn in to their beautiful, complex, and riveting stories. Emily and Jesse were in love from the moment they met in High School. Emily was a talented soccer player and Jesse was the computer nerd, and they were absolutely perfect for each other. When Emily was preparing to leave for college, Jesse broke up with her, not wanting to hold her back, breaking both their hearts. Now twenty years later, they meet again, and the attraction, and love they thought was long buried flies to the surface. They reconnect, letting go of old hurts. Jesse knows that Emily is the love of his life, but needs to focus on raising his niece after losing his sister recently. Emily has her own baggage, and knows she could fall even harder for Jesse a second time. She doesn't want to risk her heart being broken for good this time, if she doesn't keep him and his adorable niece at a distance. But can two soul mates stay apart when everything is working to bring them together? I loved how Rose took her time bringing Emily and Jesse back together. They slowly spent time together, learning who they are now, making their connection even stronger and unbreakable. Emily is so kind and sweet, and Jesse is a great guy, and a great Uncle, with a heart of gold. The chemistry and absolute devotion that develops between them is remarkable. This is an emotional and passionate story about forgiveness, love, loyalty, and family. Emily and Jesse's journey is messy, bittersweet, beautiful, and unflinchingly real, and it will leave you believing in soul mates.
Listening to CJ Bloom and Alastair Haynesbridge bring these characters and story to life was perfect. Their dynamic inflections, their distinct tones for young and mature voices, and the emotions they infuse into their characters is all so impressive. I loved reading this book when it released, but listening to these amazing performances made it even more enjoyable!