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Beginning Again (Second Chance #1)

by Peggy Bird (Goodreads Author)

3.85 of 5 stars 3.85 · rating details · 41 ratings · 38 reviews

When Liz Fairchild's husband leaves her for a younger man, she decides it's time to start over. So she sells her house, takes her generous community property settlement and opens an art gallery in the Pearl District in Portland, Oregon. A little sweat equity, some interesting art to exhibit and assistance from a surprising source and she'd ready to open.

Enter Collins, an u...more

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Published June 4th 2012 by Crimson Romance

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May 11, 2013 Amber Smith rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This book is HOT! But as well as the steam, there is also a beautifully crafted plot that is just fabulous, and an inspiration for any woman who isn't a 'sweet young thing' in her twenties. Older women are SEXY!!! Yes, indeed.

Liz has absolutely NO confidence in herself, what with the extremely older first husband who showed little interest in her before he left her a young widow, and her second husband divorcing her (after many years of marriage) because he was actually gay. Hmph, no wonder Liz...more

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Apr 10, 2013 Bookswithbenefits rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Honestly, I was hooked by the premise: a man promising to help a new divorcee learn a little bit about herself and about sex. Just imagine! A check-off list for sexual adventures! It seemed so full of potential for steam and fun... and it seemed like a light read--especially because it came in at so few pages. But this modest little story was so much more than I expected. The characters and their emotional journey had a lot of depth. More than that, although readers know that Happily Ever Afters...more

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Dec 02, 2012 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: contemporary, non-erotic

Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...

Romance novel authors are in many ways, pioneers. They are not afraid to tackle delicate issues like relationships in which the woman is older than the man. Beginning Again is definitely not the first romance novel in which the heroine is older than the hero, but for me it was the first one featuring a heroine that is way past her early forties.

Liz Fairchild made two wrong choices in her life about men. First, she married young and be...more Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...

Romance novel authors are in many ways, pioneers. They are not afraid to tackle delicate issues like relationships in which the woman is older than the man. Beginning Again is definitely not the first romance novel in which the heroine is older than the hero, but for me it was the first one featuring a heroine that is way past her early forties.

Liz Fairchild made two wrong choices in her life about men. First, she married young and before she turned thirty she was widow. After that she married a man who, just before her forty-sixth birthday and after fifteen years of marriage, decides to come out of the closet and her life. What one might expect in this situation is that Liz would be one mean, man hating lady. But no, she is the complete opposite. Aware that she continuously makes mistakes in men, she focuses her energy into an art gallery business. And before the grand opening she meets Collins, who is in his late thirties, a lawyer turn sculptor, and they start an affair.

Both Liz and Collins are great characters. Liz is not a bitter middle aged woman, but instead a very strong and brave lady. Collins is also interesting and although his intentions were not completely honorable at first, at the end he turns out to be a really great guy. This is a short and sweet romance novel and it has one component that I sometimes miss from romance stories and that is the courtship. Liz and Collins are actually going on dates, they are enjoying each other's company, and in the process they are falling in love. All this was really nicely described. Another great thing that I love in Beginning Again is Liz’s sexual awakening, and the message behind it; that is never too late to have a great sexual life and to enjoy sex.

Unfortunately there are also two things that made me give a lower rating to this story. The first is in the realm of illogicality. Liz was supposed to know who Collins was, but when he walked through the door of her gallery she was clueless. He is a sculptor whose work was scattered in different public locations around the town. While starting an art business it seems really silly that she did not do her homework before opening the gallery. The second is in the realm of responsible adult behavior. Liz and Collins shortly after they meet have unprotected sex. In the era of all different STDs, I prefer characters having protected sex, no matter what.

All in all I really enjoyed Beginning Again, because it was an easy read that made my gray autumn day a little bit less gray.
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Oct 28, 2012 Guilty Pleasures rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: guiltypleasures-kittyangel

Kitty's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

4 Stars

Beginning Again was an interesting story about love and trust, an older woman with a younger man and what they need to overcome to get beyond their problems. It was a joy to watch Collins fall in love with Liz and to see Liz accept the fact that she was falling for Collins.

Liz Fairchild is recently divorced. Her and her ex-husband, Mason, parted on decent terms and he is determined to help her out. He left her for another man. He owns...more Kitty's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

4 Stars

Beginning Again was an interesting story about love and trust, an older woman with a younger man and what they need to overcome to get beyond their problems. It was a joy to watch Collins fall in love with Liz and to see Liz accept the fact that she was falling for Collins.

Liz Fairchild is recently divorced. Her and her ex-husband, Mason, parted on decent terms and he is determined to help her out. He left her for another man. He owns a company that teaches people how to run and expand businesses – he wants to help Liz start living her life again by opening an Art Gallery and Interior Design Studio. Once she agrees, her life turns totally around.

Collins is a former attorney who left that life to pursue his dream as a metal sculptor. He approaches Liz under the ruse of looking to exhibit his sculptures in her Gallery. In reality, he was hired by his ex-legal partner to dig up dirt on Mason and his business for a client. He doesn’t realize that Liz would be as beautiful and trusting as she was.
What starts off as a simple business arrangement quickly turns into a beautiful romance. Collins fills a part of Liz’s life that she didn’t realize she was missing. After two marriages, she didn’t think she needed a man, she didn’t think that she would ever love again. She didn’t think that Collins could make her feel things or appreciate her body since her first two husbands couldn’t. What starts off as a game – Liz’s five fantasies – turns into love. Unfortunately, Collins betrays her with his investigation into Mason. Collins can’t live with the betrayal and comes clean, only after taking matters into his own hands and brokering a deal between all parties to settle the lawsuit. But, can Liz forgive him?

“Beginning Again” was very well written. A short story about two people – one who swore he would never want the picket fence and 2.3 children and one who has just given up on love. When they come together, their lust ignites and ashes are left in their wake. I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Bird’s writing, it was fresh and interesting. She didn’t overly go into the characters but you did get to know and understand them. I am glad that this was a short story because it wasn’t over-written like so many books are today. It was precise and to the point. You knew what was happening and understood why.

Review copy provided for an honest review.(less)

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Sep 08, 2012 Lucy rated it 4 of 5 stars

Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews

Liz is an over 45 woman, (a big draw for uniqueness in romance stories already) who’s husband, Mason, decides one week before her 46th birthday to let her know that he’s gay, he’s in love with someone else and he’s leaving her. It’s a good thing she has a strong sense of self, because that might crush a weaker person. All you think you’ve known for twenty years is false?

I will be upfront and say that I didn’t like Mason at all. For me, a cheater is a cheater, n...more Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews

Liz is an over 45 woman, (a big draw for uniqueness in romance stories already) who’s husband, Mason, decides one week before her 46th birthday to let her know that he’s gay, he’s in love with someone else and he’s leaving her. It’s a good thing she has a strong sense of self, because that might crush a weaker person. All you think you’ve known for twenty years is false?

I will be upfront and say that I didn’t like Mason at all. For me, a cheater is a cheater, no matter if he is sleeping with women or men. He was a liar throughout their marriage and I didn’t feel sorry for him one bit. This was another area where Liz shows how strong she is – she not only forgives that jerk, but she is friendly with him and works with the lover he left her for. Girl, that takes strength of character. Even Collins mentions it to her at one point, and she admits it may be odd, but she really likes Jamie, and that’s good enough for her. So, it’s good enough for me, and I admired her.

There were times in this book when I wanted to shake Liz and remind her, “You are a strong, smart woman. Act like it! Quit thinking with your body.” Collins may have been attractive, but her immediate capitulation to his manipulations made me crazy. I wanted her to make him work for it a bit more, particularly that first time. He just doesn’t give up, and he’s so arrogant. Liz gives and takes, but then she shows that bit of insecurity that makes you want to hug her. She doesn’t want to start anything with Collins because she’s “bad at it”. She believes she is a bad lover, based on her ex-husbands. She is guilty of nothing other than poor choices sometimes. Such as their first time having sex and she tells Collins, who she doesn’t know at all, that she trusts him to be clean and they can forego condoms. Oh, Liz.

Collins was irritating in the beginning and then I started to feel sympathetic to him. He made a mistake, compounded it and then due to guilt poured on by his friend, he didn’t know how to get out of it all. I kept having hopes he would be brave and tell Dave to shove off, but I can only imagine the dread he was feeling, knowing he might have to tell Liz. Liz, who he was falling for.

This story is well written, with characters who are flawed and remain likeable (okay, except for Mason. I admit he just isn’t my cup of tea!) It’s a quick read and the angst level, surprisingly for how much Liz has been through, is low. It has tender moments and funny ones, a nice escape(less)

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Sep 04, 2012 Shalini Ayre rated it 4 of 5 stars

Who would expect to be a widow in their twenties and twenty odd years later divorced? Not Liz Fairchild but that's exactly what's happened to her. The divorce was amicable enough - how could it not be when your husband left you for another man? Now alone, the only person she needs to focus on is herself.

Intent on seeing her happy, Mason (Liz's ex) helps her set up an art gallery. Wealthy after the divorce, she's going to have to downsize but for Liz she's able to decorate with vibrant colors and...more Who would expect to be a widow in their twenties and twenty odd years later divorced? Not Liz Fairchild but that's exactly what's happened to her. The divorce was amicable enough - how could it not be when your husband left you for another man? Now alone, the only person she needs to focus on is herself.

Intent on seeing her happy, Mason (Liz's ex) helps her set up an art gallery. Wealthy after the divorce, she's going to have to downsize but for Liz she's able to decorate with vibrant colors and not the white, beige and cream that Mason so adored. As Liz starts the arduous task of redecorating her new work/live space, she also has to find suitable artists. Thinking she has everyone she needs, in walks 'Collins'.

The attraction is instant. Resolute to steer clear of a May to December romance, Liz finds herself drawn in by Collin's determination of starting a sizzling romance. The handsome, 6ft sculptor is certainly enigmatic and before long he's not only exhibiting in her gallery but opening her up to new experiences in the bedroom.

Liz is still hesitant at the developing relationship especially when he disappears to return looking downbeat and being withdrawn. Asking questions results in Collins either clamming up or changing the subject. What is he hiding? Each scenario Liz runs through her mind equates to being hurt...again and that's the last thing she wants. What is it that he's keeping from her?

A short story romance, Bird's novel is well written and quick to read. Liz is a strong, almost self-assured woman whose insecurities are quashed by the bold and daring Collins. Initially he comes across as quite arrogant but the reader will soon warm up to his ways. With passionate love scenes and moments of tenderness, it's a love story that will appeal. Overall, I enjoyed this engaging romance. It's not in-depth and the drama is low-key so if you're after complete escapism, I doubt you could go wrong with this affable novella. A recommended read for all those hopeless romantics out there (which includes me!)

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive review.(less)

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May 28, 2012 Lotchie Burton rated it 4 of 5 stars

I loved this book from beginning to end. Author Peggy Bird skillfully wove her tale of a failed marriage, perceived sexual inadequacies and an older woman/younger man scenario together seamlessly. I liked Liz Fairchild immediately with her sharp mind, her no nonsense attitude and engaging sense of humor. Collins is her equal in every way except for a slight difference in age.

At 46, Liz is set upon a new venture in life orchestrated by her recent ex-husband. Though the two are divorced they rema...more

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May 10, 2012 Moriah Densley rated it 4 of 5 stars

Go ahead - judge this book by its cover. The story is as enjoyable as the gorgeous cover art. Peggy Bird is a pro, and it shows. Smooth, succinct prose, expert comedic timing, and fast pacing from start to finish.

You'll like Liz, the heroine. She approaches her problems with an endearing sense of humor. She's strong but loving, vulnerable but no-nonsense. She even likes her ex-husband. (You'll have to read the book to find out why.) If you like sexy, mysterious heroes who are believably romanct...more

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May 16, 2012 Jo Barney rated it 4 of 5 stars

Although Liz Fairchild is cool, tall, smart in all ways, including her taste in clothes, she has chosen wrong twice when it comes to husbands. One too old, one too gay, and so when a stranger comes on to her as she stands on the upper rungs of a ladder, hanging an art piece in her new art gallery, she’s glad she can look down at him, send him on his way. Except his way seems to be the way she’s going. Collins is a well-known sculptor, whom Liz welcomes to her stable of artists once she realizes...more

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Aug 18, 2012 Irene rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is the romance for every woman over forty. Ultimate fantasy. Your husband dumps you around your forty-sixth birthday, not for a younger woman, but because he’s gay. Fortunately, you still rock a killer bod and hubby not only left you with a nice nest egg, he’s still willing to be your financial advisor and help you invest in your dream business.

Not enough fantasy for you? Enter Collins – the younger man who is anything but a boy toy. He’s gorgeous, he’s rich, he’s talented, and he’s appare...more

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Oct 25, 2012 Cary Morgan rated it 5 of 5 stars

Peggy Bird has done a wonderful job bringing her characters to life in and around the art scene of Portland, Or. With dignity and determination the heroine, Liz Fairchild, embarks on a new life and runs head-on into unlooked for passion in the very intriguing and off-beat person of Collins. As their romance unfolds, we find that the hunky lawyer-turned-artist has a secret he is hiding from Liz. On one hand, I found I liked him more and more, and on the other I wondered what the secret could poss...more

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May 09, 2012 Kristina rated it 4 of 5 stars

I was immediately rooting for Liz from Beginning Again. A widow and recent divorcee, she could have been a whiney, self-centered character. But Peggy Bird has drawn a strong, competent heroine who is merely looking for a fresh start. Enter Collins, a much younger man, who wants to be part of that fresh start. Set in Portland, the book draws on the atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest. Ms. Bird draws funny, fresh characters you won't be able to resist.

I was able to read an ARC copy of this book; i...more

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Sep 26, 2012 Kristin rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, romance

I thought this was a fun read about an older woman who has been burned twice by men. She just recently got divorced to her long time husband when he confessed that not only is he gay and has been cheating on her their entire marriage, but he's fallen in love with the other man. For me, I was a little confused with how Liz could be okay with her ex-husband after everything went down. I mean if you spend over a decade with a man whom you have an intimate relationship with, wouldn't you be upset wi...more

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May 24, 2012 Heather Rodney-Diaz rated it 4 of 5 stars

Life begins at 40-something and after two husbands! At least for Liz Fairchild. Who knew opening a new art gallery would bring along an exciting younger lover. In walked Mr. Brash and Bold Collins. (I loved that our hero had just one name!) And he invented a to-do sex list. This was a fresh and creative take on the many sensual scenes. (I especially enjoyed the limo ride!) I really enjoyed this book's fun and playful elements. Beginning Again by Peggy Bird was a light and fast but delicious read...more

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May 25, 2012 Denyse Cohen rated it 4 of 5 stars

I was glad to be able to read an Advanced copy of Beginning Again, because it's a wonderful tale of learning to love and thrust people after having a fair share of bed luck in life. Liz is forty-six-year-old (which is a great change of pace for romance novels) but exploring for the first time her sexuality and falling in love with a man who seems to be the epitome of maddening. Peggy Bird's narrative puts us right there with Liz and, sometimes, it feels deliciously naughty.

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Mar 19, 2013 T's Book rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: first-reads

This was a Goodreads Giveaway 3 stars given by http://ktbookreviews.blogspot.com/

Beginning Again is a super short (105 pages) super cute story. I hesitate to say much about the storyline due to the length. It took me only a few hours to read. Perfect if you have a day filled with appointments or waiting rooms. No major plots lines that require a lot of concentration. A light easy read to make you smile.

Not going into the story overall as the synopsis says it all :)
It was cute.
T~

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May 27, 2012 Kay Rogal rated it 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Peggy Bird's 'Beginning Again'. It is refreshing and well-written as Liz, approaching 50's, and Collins a slightly younger man, find fallin in love and chemistry do not end after the age 30. Liz and Collins are definitely worth rooting for as Liz shows 46 is still in the running and isn't afraid to embrace life and Collins doesn't give up, making things right with the woman he loves!

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Apr 23, 2013 Deborah O'Neill Cordes rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Does anyone understand how difficult it is to write such a smooth, delicious, sinfully wonderful, and entertaining novel such as this? Well, I do!

I love Liz and Collins and the other great characters who people Ms. Bird's delightful world. Hooray for a heroine of such class, smarts, style, grace and... age. In a world of twenty-something heroines, how refreshing to read about a forty-six-year-old beauty. Well done!

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Oct 05, 2012 WiLoveBooks rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-2012, review-copy

Liz is older than your typical romance heroine and has been both widowed and divorced. I was pulled into her story right away. Collins is a cocky, younger man and overcomes whatever objections she can come up with, but he has secrets. There is lots of steam and a little angst. It is a lovely book about hope, love, and starting over.

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May 12, 2012 Micah Persell rated it 4 of 5 stars

Beginning Again by Peggy Bird is a breath of fresh air in the world of romance novels. Her heroine, Liz, is a forty-six-year-old woman who shows the world a definition of sexy that smart women have always known. Thank you, Peggy Bird, for breaking down walls!

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Sep 17, 2012 Hearts On Fire Reviews added it

Reviewed by: Lucy
Genre: M/F Contemporary
Rated: 4 Stars

Check out the review at: Hearts On Fire Reviews

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Mar 25, 2013 Shiela Johnson rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I'm not sure if this quit my read, it was ok, however I don't think it was quit something I was looking for.

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Apr 26, 2013 Eliza Daly rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I was immediately drawn into Liz's story and read the book in one sitting. I loved the fact that Liz was 46, since heroines over 40 are quite rare, and that her love interest was a younger man. I also love art so I was intrigued by the fact that Liz was a gallery owner. She was a strong-willed woman getting on with her life after two bad marriages and the sexy artist Collins was certainly the man to help her move forward.(I don't usually read spicy books, so I have to admit I blushed in spots.)

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Sep 07, 2012 Peggy Bird added it · (Review from the author) · review of another edition

Yes, I read this. Many, many times. I wrote it. I'd love it if you read it, too.

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Shelves: read-again

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About Peggy Bird

Born in Philly, raised in the suburbs, I moved to the Northwest as an adult and, other than a year in England and a couple years in Montana, have happily lived here ever since.

My work life has been more complicated. I was a nurse, political staffer, lobbyist, association executive and community affairs consultant before I followed my passions to writing and art glass. Not as much money but a whol...more

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Beginning Again (Second Chance #1)

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