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Second Chances
Even as a child, Rachel had her whole life mapped out – study teaching, marry the perfect guy, have some kids and be a stay at home mum. With two different guys after her attention, Rachel must make a choice – will she choose rebellious single dad Nate or sensible youth leader Steven?
Meanwhile, Hannah is on top of the world, engaged to be married to the love of her life, until a chance encounter with someone from her past threatens to take away her happiness. Will her relationship survive when the secret she has been keeping for so many years is uncovered?
As these best friends lean on God and each other through different trials, they both experience God’s forgiveness and his provision of ‘second chances’.
Meanwhile, Hannah is on top of the world, engaged to be married to the love of her life, until a chance encounter with someone from her past threatens to take away her happiness. Will her relationship survive when the secret she has been keeping for so many years is uncovered?
As these best friends lean on God and each other through different trials, they both experience God’s forgiveness and his provision of ‘second chances’.
61 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 3, 2012
105 people are currently reading
645 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
February 5, 2013
The problem with this book is that it's written about people who are 20 years old, except they think like 12 year old girls. The book reads like it's a middle school romance instead of a young adult one. I understand it's a Christian Romance, but this was completely unbelievable. The characters are boring, flat, and I felt zero compassion for their "struggles" in the story. You can write an engaging christian based romance without making your characters act like children. If you're looking for one to enjoy, this is not it.
August 18, 2013
I really love the cover for this book. That’s the first thing that caught my eye and got me interested in reading it. Unfortunately, the story isn’t nearly as interesting as the cover. I like the concept of second chances and the message that you have to believe that things happen for a reason and not always the way we want it to, and I’m a firm believer of the power of prayer. But I found this little quick read way to preachy for my taste and the characters rather shallow and flat. It reads like an essay written by an eleven-year-old and was rather monotonous and unbelievably prudish. If the story had taken place in an Amish community, it would’ve been more believable. If you can get it as a free download, it makes for a quick bedtime read as it would surely lull you to sleep, but if not free at the time of purchase, consider giving it a miss.
March 15, 2013
I've been reading a lot of Christian fiction lately because I don't have to worry about the worldly smut found in so many books. This book was a clean read, but...I don't really care for books that overly focus on Christian themes (yes, I am religious). I guess I wouldn't mind it so much had the characters been well developed--I just couldn't connect.
Anyway...this story took place in Australia. Two friends were both out to find love and when Hannah shared a secret from her past with her fiance, he up and left. Rachel couldn't decide between two men, but life happens and it kind of forced her decision.
Anyway...this story took place in Australia. Two friends were both out to find love and when Hannah shared a secret from her past with her fiance, he up and left. Rachel couldn't decide between two men, but life happens and it kind of forced her decision.
March 15, 2013
A novella about forgiveness and second chances. Two best friends are beginning a new chapter in their lives. One is about to marry the man God has created just for her, the other longing for a love and family of her own. But things do not go according to their plans but the plans the Lord has for them.
Second Chances is an inspirational story of God's ultimate plan for our lives, while it is fictional, it brings a strong message. To wait on the Lord and that forgiveness comes on all forms.
Second Chances is an inspirational story of God's ultimate plan for our lives, while it is fictional, it brings a strong message. To wait on the Lord and that forgiveness comes on all forms.
June 29, 2013
this book was AWESOME. I admired how the author brought God into the equation at all times. As a teenager who is also a Christian after reading this book I feel as though I have new books to encourage and new alternatives instead of reading secular books. I recommend everyone to read this book. I was blessed by it. I also want to thank the author for allowing God to use you to write this book.
May 13, 2013
Seriously seemed more like a preteen romance except these were supposed to be adults. No character development at all. Her writing style was ridiculously simple. One star because it lacks depth in multiple ways.
March 20, 2013
This is absolutely terrible...there's hardly any depth to the story or the characters...they have hardly any flaws...ugh
March 21, 2013
No love, no laugh, no drama.
They were suppose to be finishing college, but they ALL acted like 10 years old.
They were suppose to be finishing college, but they ALL acted like 10 years old.
August 9, 2013
This felt like it was written for a short story competition in high school or something. To be fair, it is a novella. But it just never bad much growth. Maybe if it had just focused on one of the girls instead of both. Or … something. I don't know.
I mean, it's realistic in that most relationships are actually rather uneventful, and have some rocky spots, but it wasn't anything really new or noteworthy.
I will give it this, the title is very apt. Every main character, and many minor characters, get a second chance in this book. :)
I mean, it's realistic in that most relationships are actually rather uneventful, and have some rocky spots, but it wasn't anything really new or noteworthy.
I will give it this, the title is very apt. Every main character, and many minor characters, get a second chance in this book. :)
March 8, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this selection. I started reading it and read half of it before I put it down. I finished it today and I was uplifted after finishing it. I love the way the author writes in each character and how they all find the love they were searching for. This is definitely worth the five stars I gave and a few more. Thank you for a good read Alison.
March 3, 2013
Okay, I only got 5 minutes into the book and stopped. I didn't realize this was a Christian romance. Nothing wrong with that, but I seek a read where God isn't mentioned as much. This sounds so bad. But I need to fantasize!!
April 30, 2013
I lasted 4 chapters and simply couldn't carry on. the characters were boring and immature whilst their reliance on their faith and beliefs grated on me.
I've been raised a Catholic, but this was just far too 'in your face' for me.
I've been raised a Catholic, but this was just far too 'in your face' for me.
May 23, 2013
A short easy read. While I appreciated the message of God's love and grace and the need to always seek him in leading and directing out lives, I found the characters in the story to be rather undeveloped and flat.
December 23, 2017
Short but great read
Set in Australia, this novella is just what I needed. With so many romance novels and the expectation to find the “one” this is a very good counter cultural view. My only concern was the ending was too neat.
Set in Australia, this novella is just what I needed. With so many romance novels and the expectation to find the “one” this is a very good counter cultural view. My only concern was the ending was too neat.
June 20, 2018
Review
Book was a quick read. Very quick read. It highlighted a few struggles that young Christian females face when choosing a partner as well as the type of partner we should choose. It also highlighted forgiveness and trust.
Book was a quick read. Very quick read. It highlighted a few struggles that young Christian females face when choosing a partner as well as the type of partner we should choose. It also highlighted forgiveness and trust.
November 29, 2020
A heart warming read
What I loved about this story, is that it shows us to trust God’s timing as he always delivers. This was a short story which I would have preferred to have been a bit more in depth and longer, however, it was an enjoyable read.
What I loved about this story, is that it shows us to trust God’s timing as he always delivers. This was a short story which I would have preferred to have been a bit more in depth and longer, however, it was an enjoyable read.
December 28, 2017
Good christian book
Good, clean, Christian read. I really enjoyed this book. Wished that it could have been longer, but the author did a great job
Good, clean, Christian read. I really enjoyed this book. Wished that it could have been longer, but the author did a great job
June 20, 2013
I took a chance on reading a Christian-based inspiration romance book. I generally don't like to mix the themes because I find them to be inconsistent at best. Second Chances is Alison Stanley's first attempt in this genre, and the first book of hers that I read. Although, I must note that I was ready to print my review, the author herself actually contacted me and asked if I would read her second book and publish a review for that one first. I agreed, so please see my review below of her second book.
As for Second Chances, I must admit that my original thought about not reading mixed themes was on track. While Ms. Stanley's first attempt at a novel was not that bad, it wasn't the best. My biggest obstacle was language. As an American, I have the privilege of living in the melting pot of nationalities. However, an author's vernacular while seemingly charming when delivered in verbal form, it also has the ability to make or break a story when it comes to the written word.
In terms of the actual story, simply put, it is about two friends and their desire to find suitable husbands.
One of them, Hannah, is already engaged but happens to meet someone from her past that brings up some not so pleasant memories that could potentially destroy the relationship she is in. The other, Rachael, who has carefully planned her life, realizes that she has the opportunity to take a chance and step out of her normal routine and pursue a relationship that may not be suitable for her. Coincidentally, there is also another guy who is interested in her. Hmmm, now she has the big dilemma. Actually, they both have problems that need to be addressed.
On one hand, Rachael's story was somewhat predictable, and unfortunately, due to the duo stories going on here, it didn't have the opportunity to expand on some of the necessary detail to make it more complete. Hannah's story, on the other hand, offered a surprising twist to what would have otherwise been a bland and boring account of another perfect relationship.
I believe that by having two stories told in one novel shortchanged both as there wasn't enough time to expand on the stories beneath the stories. Separating the two would have allowed for each of the girl's journey to be more fulfilling for the reader and answered some of those questions that were left up to our imaginations.
As a Christian-based story, this book is probably not suitable for pre-teens or young teens. I would recommend that parents read the book first to assess whether they want their child to read it or not.
As for Second Chances, I must admit that my original thought about not reading mixed themes was on track. While Ms. Stanley's first attempt at a novel was not that bad, it wasn't the best. My biggest obstacle was language. As an American, I have the privilege of living in the melting pot of nationalities. However, an author's vernacular while seemingly charming when delivered in verbal form, it also has the ability to make or break a story when it comes to the written word.
In terms of the actual story, simply put, it is about two friends and their desire to find suitable husbands.
One of them, Hannah, is already engaged but happens to meet someone from her past that brings up some not so pleasant memories that could potentially destroy the relationship she is in. The other, Rachael, who has carefully planned her life, realizes that she has the opportunity to take a chance and step out of her normal routine and pursue a relationship that may not be suitable for her. Coincidentally, there is also another guy who is interested in her. Hmmm, now she has the big dilemma. Actually, they both have problems that need to be addressed.
On one hand, Rachael's story was somewhat predictable, and unfortunately, due to the duo stories going on here, it didn't have the opportunity to expand on some of the necessary detail to make it more complete. Hannah's story, on the other hand, offered a surprising twist to what would have otherwise been a bland and boring account of another perfect relationship.
I believe that by having two stories told in one novel shortchanged both as there wasn't enough time to expand on the stories beneath the stories. Separating the two would have allowed for each of the girl's journey to be more fulfilling for the reader and answered some of those questions that were left up to our imaginations.
As a Christian-based story, this book is probably not suitable for pre-teens or young teens. I would recommend that parents read the book first to assess whether they want their child to read it or not.
April 27, 2013
okay this book is not something i would normal choose for my self. the story line is good with out the insert of god now be being not that religious i found it like the author was trying to push god in the reader face but that just could be the type of book it is i wouldn't know.over all i like the concept of second chances. you follow two friend going though different things and finding a second chance at love with both god and men Hannah had a secret that when she told her soon to be husband sent their love life on pause. while Rachel falling in love with one guy breaking the heart of another man. after all said and done she he hurt and find a second chance as well with the guy she had hurt. it all puppy dogs and god love every one sweet happy ending. with the story being a light and fast read even though it took me a while because it wasn't one i wanted to pick ( or make me click my kindle app) to continue to read. i found some thing where spelled wrong or just different and part of a paragraph was repeated twice in a row when cause a little confusion to me.over all i give this book a 3 out of five stars.
August 17, 2013
This is a sweet Christian romance. 2 stories about 2 friends.
As a child Rachel made a plan for her life. She just forgot 1 thing, GOD has a better plan. When she realised 2 men were interested in her, she prays for guidance yet chooses her own path. She does this and does it without GOD'S guidance.
Hannah is engaged to the love of her life Tim. When a person from her past can threaten their relationship she tells Tim the secret she has kept. Will she loose the love of her life? or Will their love for one another and their love for GOD make their relationship stronger in the end?
I loved this story. As a first attempt I applaud Alison Stanley. There were a few minor issues such as the characters could have been more developed, I would have liked to learn more about Nate's relationship and Rachel's relationship with Steven. I'll definitely read more stories by Alison.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!
As a child Rachel made a plan for her life. She just forgot 1 thing, GOD has a better plan. When she realised 2 men were interested in her, she prays for guidance yet chooses her own path. She does this and does it without GOD'S guidance.
Hannah is engaged to the love of her life Tim. When a person from her past can threaten their relationship she tells Tim the secret she has kept. Will she loose the love of her life? or Will their love for one another and their love for GOD make their relationship stronger in the end?
I loved this story. As a first attempt I applaud Alison Stanley. There were a few minor issues such as the characters could have been more developed, I would have liked to learn more about Nate's relationship and Rachel's relationship with Steven. I'll definitely read more stories by Alison.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!
January 28, 2015
This story is ok for Christians but for those of us who read Christian romances out of enjoyment rather than religious reasons then this won't be for you.
It has a really good message but it's not really a romance - more of a inspirational story for Christian women.
Pros -
1. loved how the book focuses on the inner qualities of a person rather than external characteristics e.g. Rachel wants the tall, dark handsome type cliché but finally realises that personality and inner qualities sometimes trumps looks.
2. There's also the forgiveness message which was very nice.
Cons -
1. Sanctimonious at times (Tim's reaction to Hannah's disclosure wasn't very supportive (initially) and rather sanctimonious).
2. It was preachy at times
3. A few of the characters became Christian rather suddenly
4. Was rather dull
It has a really good message but it's not really a romance - more of a inspirational story for Christian women.
Pros -
1. loved how the book focuses on the inner qualities of a person rather than external characteristics e.g. Rachel wants the tall, dark handsome type cliché but finally realises that personality and inner qualities sometimes trumps looks.
2. There's also the forgiveness message which was very nice.
Cons -
1. Sanctimonious at times (Tim's reaction to Hannah's disclosure wasn't very supportive (initially) and rather sanctimonious).
2. It was preachy at times
3. A few of the characters became Christian rather suddenly
4. Was rather dull
December 12, 2013
As a pre-teen book, this is a really uplifting read. I think having the girls older may have hurt the set-up of this book. If they were much younger, it would have held together better with the more youngish dialogue. If the main characters had more explicit flaws, the story could have evolved more. I'd like to see more from this writer, because getting a well-rounded novella is actually technically a difficult format. At least in the usual YA length of 75,000 words, you have more room to make mistakes, and the scenes don't need to be so chock-full of character development. For her first go, this is a really decent Christian read. More, Alison, more! (Please!)
February 12, 2016
Second Chances is a Christian novel about two friends, Rachel and Hannah. The young women live in Australia and go to different Universities but have been childhood friends. Both a Christian and want Christian husbands but have to learn to put their lives in God's hands and follow where he guides them.
The problems with the book is the switching between the two girls with no transition or starting a new chapter to give the reader a clue the switch is happening. The story is jerky with all the starts and stops, the story line is a good idea and the character development is good but the story needs work to flow.
The problems with the book is the switching between the two girls with no transition or starting a new chapter to give the reader a clue the switch is happening. The story is jerky with all the starts and stops, the story line is a good idea and the character development is good but the story needs work to flow.
November 8, 2013
Second Chances is an awesome book. I would recommend this book to people who likes to read Christian books. This book has prayers in it that Rachel said. Rachel's friends were getting engaged and married and she doesn't have a boyfriend. Rachel babysat for a family because the brother and the mom had to work extra hours, the brother came home and was staring at her and he called her the next day for a date, and she told him to come to church and then they could go to the movie that she chooses another day. This book is an amazing book if you want an easy read Christian book
August 11, 2014
Refreshingly Sweet and Hopeful!
An enjoyable story about the many blessings in or lives we tend to overlook, while trying to create the life we think is best for us. We can all relate to falling short, straying off the straight and narrow, and seeking after our own agendas. A refreshing look at forgiveness and redemption through Christ's death and resurrection and a reminder of what God has in store for us, may not look like what we thought but far exceeds our expectations and desires.
An enjoyable story about the many blessings in or lives we tend to overlook, while trying to create the life we think is best for us. We can all relate to falling short, straying off the straight and narrow, and seeking after our own agendas. A refreshing look at forgiveness and redemption through Christ's death and resurrection and a reminder of what God has in store for us, may not look like what we thought but far exceeds our expectations and desires.
April 8, 2013
I came across this on a Free e-book site. I downloaded it and thought it would be an ok read. Far from it. I couldn't stop reading the book. Great story line and excellent use of scripture to the characters story plots. This book re-opened my eyes to what is going on in my life. May God continue to bless this author to touch as she did with me through this book. It is a MUST READ for me.
The problem was I wish it was longer.
The problem was I wish it was longer.
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February 17, 2014I know it was free. I always try to be kind with those reviews, but this is a book about a heap of people relishing in their heavy Christian faith & to me they seem to be the most judgmental humans ever. Makes me batshit. Writing seemed very in mature to me. The reading flow was choppy & the characters thoughts & feelings were way too MOW IMO.
September 4, 2014
I really didn't like Steven.
I loved both of the women in the story, and the theme of second chances. However, I found Steven just too immature and petty for him to have a second chance. I don't want to give anything away, so I'll leave it, there. The story was well written. This is my first read from this author, but I will buy her books, again.
I loved both of the women in the story, and the theme of second chances. However, I found Steven just too immature and petty for him to have a second chance. I don't want to give anything away, so I'll leave it, there. The story was well written. This is my first read from this author, but I will buy her books, again.
May 27, 2014
I really enjoyed reading this nicely written Christian book.
This book was a true Christian book that had relatable issues but was resolved with Christian morals. It maintained that innocence and decency that is so hard to find in books today. I would absolutely recommend this book to a fellow Christian and young adults to read.
This book was a true Christian book that had relatable issues but was resolved with Christian morals. It maintained that innocence and decency that is so hard to find in books today. I would absolutely recommend this book to a fellow Christian and young adults to read.
September 25, 2014
Wonderful!!
I started this book last night and read some at work today while on my lunch break. I came home and could not put it down!! I found it easy to relate to the characters being a Christian myself and trying to navigate life with a balance of keeping God first. I definitely recommend this book!!!
I started this book last night and read some at work today while on my lunch break. I came home and could not put it down!! I found it easy to relate to the characters being a Christian myself and trying to navigate life with a balance of keeping God first. I definitely recommend this book!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews