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Cedar Ridge #1
Second Chance Summer
RESCUE ME
Cedar Ridge, Colorado, is famous for crisp mountain air, clear blue skies, and pine-scented breezes. And it's the last place Lily Danville wants to be. But she needs a job, and there's an opening at the hottest resort in her hometown. What has her concerned is the other hot property in Cedar Ridge: Aidan Kincaid-firefighter, rescue worker, and heartbreaker. She never could resist that devastating smile . . .
The Kincaid brothers are as rough and rugged as the Rocky Mountains they call home. Aidan has always done things his own way, by his own rules. And never has he regretted anything more than letting Lily walk out of his life ten years ago. If anyone has ever been in need of rescuing, she has. What she needs more than anything are long hikes, slow dances, and sizzling kisses. But that can only happen if he can get her to give Cedar Ridge-and this bad boy-a second chance . . .
Cedar Ridge, Colorado, is famous for crisp mountain air, clear blue skies, and pine-scented breezes. And it's the last place Lily Danville wants to be. But she needs a job, and there's an opening at the hottest resort in her hometown. What has her concerned is the other hot property in Cedar Ridge: Aidan Kincaid-firefighter, rescue worker, and heartbreaker. She never could resist that devastating smile . . .
The Kincaid brothers are as rough and rugged as the Rocky Mountains they call home. Aidan has always done things his own way, by his own rules. And never has he regretted anything more than letting Lily walk out of his life ten years ago. If anyone has ever been in need of rescuing, she has. What she needs more than anything are long hikes, slow dances, and sizzling kisses. But that can only happen if he can get her to give Cedar Ridge-and this bad boy-a second chance . . .
337 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 30, 2015
About the author
Jill Shalvis
427 books12.7k followers Multiple New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras full of quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is … mostly coincidental. Look for Jill’s bestselling, award-winning heartwarming and full of humor novels wherever books are sold and visit her website for a complete book list and blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures. Her newest Sunrise Cove novel, THE BACKUP PLAN, is out now, and THE SWEETHEART LIST comes out in June!
Look for Jill's bestselling, award-winning novels wherever books are sold. Visit http://www.jillshalvis.com for a complete book list and fun blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.
Connect with Jill:
http://instagram.com/jillshalvis
http://facebook.com/JillShalvis
http://twitter.com/jillshalvis
Look for Jill's bestselling, award-winning novels wherever books are sold. Visit http://www.jillshalvis.com for a complete book list and fun blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.
Connect with Jill:
http://instagram.com/jillshalvis
http://facebook.com/JillShalvis
http://twitter.com/jillshalvis
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August 19, 2015
Second Chance Summer is book one in the Cedar Ridge series by Jill Shalvis. So this is my third book by Jill Shalvis and I have pretty much come to the conclusion that I am going to love anything she writes. Such is the case with this fabulous first book of this brand new series. It didn’t take long for me to not only fall in love with the two main characters but also, all of the secondary characters, well, maybe except one.
Welcome to Cedar Ridge, Colorado and meet the Kincaid family. You will find it hard not to instantly love this family made up of an ornery Mom, four very sexy brothers, one of which we don’t get to meet just yet. And one very temperamental half-sister. This family might be a bit dysfunctional but they love each other and will to go the ends of the earth to protect one another.
Aidan Kincaid is the second to the oldest, his older brother, Gray, is the only sibling that is married. Aidan seems like he is the brother that holds everyone together. He is the ‘pleaser’ as one of his brothers calls him. He tries to fix everything for his siblings. Aidan is a firefighter, is a member of the search and rescue team, and helps his brothers run the family resort. Ten years ago, Aidan found himself falling for Lily Danville. But when tragedy struck Lily’s family, she left town, never looking back. Since then, Aidan keeps his time filled with work, his family and occasional ‘friends with benefits’ encounters with various women. But he has never been able to open his heart to anyone since Lily left. Then, one day as he is in line at the convenience store, there she was, with her arms filled with junk food, more beautiful than he remembered.
For the last ten years, Lily Danville has built a life for herself in California. She worked up to assistant manager of a high profile salon and is quite proud of what she has accomplished. Then, everything fell apart. Now, she has no job and no prospect of one in the near future. Her friend, Jonathan, in Cedar Ridge has offered her a temporary position working for him at Mane Attraction until she can find something else. Can she go back as a failure? Can she face all the memories that Cedar Ridge holds for her? And what about Aidan? Of course, she is in town barely a few minutes and she is face to face with him. It seems ten years did nothing to dampen the chemistry between them.
“You don’t have to try so hard to get my attention, babe, you’ve already got it.”
Being back in Colorado after ten years was going to take some getting used to. And it seemed like Aidan was coming to Lily’s rescue every time she turned around. But as the book progressed, I had to wonder, who really needed the rescuing? Was it Lily from the memories that Cedar Ridge held and her feelings of grief and responsibility for what happened? Or was it Aidan who seems like he feels responsible for everyone?
“You’re not a job to me, Lily. Not even close. You’re more. And I think I’m more to you too. I think it’s not that you don’t feel anything, it’s that you feel too much. I scare you.”
I think Aidan is my new favorite book boyfriend. This guy was just…well, amazing. Every time he uttered two particular words to Lily, I would melt into a puddle.
“Think of me.”
These two were a mess together. And perfect together. The last 25% of the book was freaking fabulous. As Lily and Aidan stumbled through their way to finding each other again, there were hilarious moments, intense moments, sweet moments, sexy as heck moments, and so very many sigh worthy moments. Jill Shalvis, I thank you for again creating a family that promises to keep me entertained for a long time to come, hopefully. I can’t wait to get to know Hud better, even though I already love him, in the next book, My Kind of Wonderful.
“Sometimes the bad ideas turn out to be the best ideas of all.”
Welcome to Cedar Ridge, Colorado and meet the Kincaid family. You will find it hard not to instantly love this family made up of an ornery Mom, four very sexy brothers, one of which we don’t get to meet just yet. And one very temperamental half-sister. This family might be a bit dysfunctional but they love each other and will to go the ends of the earth to protect one another.
Aidan Kincaid is the second to the oldest, his older brother, Gray, is the only sibling that is married. Aidan seems like he is the brother that holds everyone together. He is the ‘pleaser’ as one of his brothers calls him. He tries to fix everything for his siblings. Aidan is a firefighter, is a member of the search and rescue team, and helps his brothers run the family resort. Ten years ago, Aidan found himself falling for Lily Danville. But when tragedy struck Lily’s family, she left town, never looking back. Since then, Aidan keeps his time filled with work, his family and occasional ‘friends with benefits’ encounters with various women. But he has never been able to open his heart to anyone since Lily left. Then, one day as he is in line at the convenience store, there she was, with her arms filled with junk food, more beautiful than he remembered.
For the last ten years, Lily Danville has built a life for herself in California. She worked up to assistant manager of a high profile salon and is quite proud of what she has accomplished. Then, everything fell apart. Now, she has no job and no prospect of one in the near future. Her friend, Jonathan, in Cedar Ridge has offered her a temporary position working for him at Mane Attraction until she can find something else. Can she go back as a failure? Can she face all the memories that Cedar Ridge holds for her? And what about Aidan? Of course, she is in town barely a few minutes and she is face to face with him. It seems ten years did nothing to dampen the chemistry between them.
“You don’t have to try so hard to get my attention, babe, you’ve already got it.”
Being back in Colorado after ten years was going to take some getting used to. And it seemed like Aidan was coming to Lily’s rescue every time she turned around. But as the book progressed, I had to wonder, who really needed the rescuing? Was it Lily from the memories that Cedar Ridge held and her feelings of grief and responsibility for what happened? Or was it Aidan who seems like he feels responsible for everyone?
“You’re not a job to me, Lily. Not even close. You’re more. And I think I’m more to you too. I think it’s not that you don’t feel anything, it’s that you feel too much. I scare you.”
I think Aidan is my new favorite book boyfriend. This guy was just…well, amazing. Every time he uttered two particular words to Lily, I would melt into a puddle.
“Think of me.”
These two were a mess together. And perfect together. The last 25% of the book was freaking fabulous. As Lily and Aidan stumbled through their way to finding each other again, there were hilarious moments, intense moments, sweet moments, sexy as heck moments, and so very many sigh worthy moments. Jill Shalvis, I thank you for again creating a family that promises to keep me entertained for a long time to come, hopefully. I can’t wait to get to know Hud better, even though I already love him, in the next book, My Kind of Wonderful.
“Sometimes the bad ideas turn out to be the best ideas of all.”
July 14, 2015
4 Stars!!
My first thought after I finished this one was – ‘Why I waited so long to read this book?’ To say I’m familiar with this author work and writing style is an understatement since this was my 12th book by her. She always writes such enjoyable reads with great developed characters and her writing is always engaging and fun. Her books always put a smile on my face and "Second Chance Summer" was no exception.
“Second Chance Summer” is book1 in Jill Shalvis’s new series “Cedar Ridge” and tells a sweet story about a second chance at love. Lily Danville left her hometown ten years ago. All these years she tried to move on from the grief losing her sister, Ashley and also her father who died a week after her. She’s back in town not because she wants to be there. Actually, she never planned to come back, but after she lost her job and her boyfriend being involved in a scandal she really needs a job and a change in her life. She’s a hairdresser/beautician and her friend Jonathan offered her a job at the town's resort. She’s not ready for this small hometown and she definitely is not ready for Aiden Kincaid, the man she never forgot, the man she will have to face after all these years.
Aiden works as a firefighter and volunteers for the local Search and Rescue team. He also helps his siblings with the family’s resort. For him Lily always was ‘the one that got away’. She never forgot her and even if he hadn’t seen her in forever, he still thought about her way too often. A long time ago he convinced himself that whatever he’d felt for her all those years ago had been just a teenage boy thing, but when he gets to know her again, he realizes she’s the only one for him. What he has to do now is to convince Lily that she has to live in the present, not in the past and that he’s the only man for her.
I loved this book! This author always manages to surprise me in such a good way. I love how she builds her stories, the romance between the two main characters and also the friendship and family dynamics which always play an important role in the story.
Second chance at love is one of my favorite tropes, but unfortunately not every author can create a good, realistic story. In “Second Chance Summer” this aspect is done so well. These characters are not rushing into anything, they struggling with what they feel and what they do, so their second chance at love is believable.
Both Lily and Aiden were well developed characters. They are multi-layered, they were endearing, they felt real. Aiden was a sweetheart. And not only with Lily. He’s genuinely a good man. He’s a great son, brother and friend. He’s kind and he wants to help and maybe rescue everyone is his life. He’ll do anything for his siblings and for his mother. With Lily he was perfect. I lost count how many times he made me swoon and smile. Yes, I fell for him hard and fast. From the beginning he was so sweet, considerate and caring with Lily. He’s the prefect man for her and I felt it and he’s determined for her and for them. I loved that about him! With both his family and Lily he’s protective, he wants to make their lives easier…like I said - he’s a good man.
Lily was a likeable heroine as well. I felt for her and I totally understood why she chose to leave town ten years ago and also her hesitation to get in a relationship with Aiden. (for more than one reasons) Her character was portrayed in such a realistic way; her grief and guilt – you can really felt them. I liked how she learnt that relying on someone it’s not a bad thing, that there are people in her hometown who care for her, who want to help her and who want to love her.
I loved the connection between these two main characters and the chemistry was there, in every scene and very palpable. Even if there are not too many sexy scenes, like in an erotic romance, I enjoyed them and the sweet moments between them melt my heart.
Like I mentioned before, Mrs. Shalvis knows how to write family dynamics. I really enjoyed this aspect in this novel. I loved the relationship between Aiden and his siblings as much as I enjoyed his relationship with his mother. The supportive characters are engaging and they were fun to read about. All of them were so likeable, relatable and portrayed in a very realistic way.
All in all, “Second Chance Summer” was a fantastic read with endearing main and supportive characters, gripping story line and engaging writing. It was a great start to this new series and I can’t wait to read more about these characters!
My first thought after I finished this one was – ‘Why I waited so long to read this book?’ To say I’m familiar with this author work and writing style is an understatement since this was my 12th book by her. She always writes such enjoyable reads with great developed characters and her writing is always engaging and fun. Her books always put a smile on my face and "Second Chance Summer" was no exception.
“He remembered kissing her … falling for her.
Then how she’d left the mountain without looking back, forgetting about him with shocking, heartbreaking ease.
Now she was back. And she’d kissed him like maybe she hadn’t forgotten him after all...”
“Second Chance Summer” is book1 in Jill Shalvis’s new series “Cedar Ridge” and tells a sweet story about a second chance at love. Lily Danville left her hometown ten years ago. All these years she tried to move on from the grief losing her sister, Ashley and also her father who died a week after her. She’s back in town not because she wants to be there. Actually, she never planned to come back, but after she lost her job and her boyfriend being involved in a scandal she really needs a job and a change in her life. She’s a hairdresser/beautician and her friend Jonathan offered her a job at the town's resort. She’s not ready for this small hometown and she definitely is not ready for Aiden Kincaid, the man she never forgot, the man she will have to face after all these years.
Aiden works as a firefighter and volunteers for the local Search and Rescue team. He also helps his siblings with the family’s resort. For him Lily always was ‘the one that got away’. She never forgot her and even if he hadn’t seen her in forever, he still thought about her way too often. A long time ago he convinced himself that whatever he’d felt for her all those years ago had been just a teenage boy thing, but when he gets to know her again, he realizes she’s the only one for him. What he has to do now is to convince Lily that she has to live in the present, not in the past and that he’s the only man for her.
“There were some men who just knew how to kiss, the kind of kiss that could send a woman reeling. The kind of kiss that could take away problems and awareness and … and everything. The kind of kiss that could shatter her into a trillion little pieces. The kind of kiss that somehow both calmed her body and soul even as it wound her up for more. Aidan was that kind of kisser.”
I loved this book! This author always manages to surprise me in such a good way. I love how she builds her stories, the romance between the two main characters and also the friendship and family dynamics which always play an important role in the story.
Second chance at love is one of my favorite tropes, but unfortunately not every author can create a good, realistic story. In “Second Chance Summer” this aspect is done so well. These characters are not rushing into anything, they struggling with what they feel and what they do, so their second chance at love is believable.
Both Lily and Aiden were well developed characters. They are multi-layered, they were endearing, they felt real. Aiden was a sweetheart. And not only with Lily. He’s genuinely a good man. He’s a great son, brother and friend. He’s kind and he wants to help and maybe rescue everyone is his life. He’ll do anything for his siblings and for his mother. With Lily he was perfect. I lost count how many times he made me swoon and smile. Yes, I fell for him hard and fast. From the beginning he was so sweet, considerate and caring with Lily. He’s the prefect man for her and I felt it and he’s determined for her and for them. I loved that about him! With both his family and Lily he’s protective, he wants to make their lives easier…like I said - he’s a good man.
Lily was a likeable heroine as well. I felt for her and I totally understood why she chose to leave town ten years ago and also her hesitation to get in a relationship with Aiden. (for more than one reasons) Her character was portrayed in such a realistic way; her grief and guilt – you can really felt them. I liked how she learnt that relying on someone it’s not a bad thing, that there are people in her hometown who care for her, who want to help her and who want to love her.
I loved the connection between these two main characters and the chemistry was there, in every scene and very palpable. Even if there are not too many sexy scenes, like in an erotic romance, I enjoyed them and the sweet moments between them melt my heart.
Like I mentioned before, Mrs. Shalvis knows how to write family dynamics. I really enjoyed this aspect in this novel. I loved the relationship between Aiden and his siblings as much as I enjoyed his relationship with his mother. The supportive characters are engaging and they were fun to read about. All of them were so likeable, relatable and portrayed in a very realistic way.
All in all, “Second Chance Summer” was a fantastic read with endearing main and supportive characters, gripping story line and engaging writing. It was a great start to this new series and I can’t wait to read more about these characters!
“She stared at him. “Whatever I want? You can’t just offer me whatever I want.”
“Of course I can.” His eyes were intense now. Serious, smile gone. “Just name it.”
“There’s really only one thing,” she said.
He waited with characteristic patience.
“I just need you to love me,” she whispered.
“For the rest of my life,” he promised.”
August 1, 2015
For safety reasons, checking firewood for snakes, spiders and bunnies is essential...
You know how some authors mention they are putting out a new series and you start jumping up and down, nearly breaking your computer to get to the pre-order screen? Jill Shalvis is one of those authors for me. I know I will form a connection with her characters that will put a smile on my face and a glow in my cheeks. Well, this little ducky got an email from Ms Shalvis’s virtual assistant asking me (little ole me) to read and review Second Chance Summer. To say I was excited would be an understatement. I was ringing people, sending messages and gloating (just a little) to friends and family of my good fortune. This was a HUGE deal for me. I was determined to be objective and removed my fangirl hat for the job…halfway through though, that hat was back on. Jill Shalvis knows her stuff.
This story is about a second chance at love between main characters Lily and Aidan. Lily has been trying to move on from the grief of losing her sister Ashley and her father who both died within a week of each other. She left her hometown of Cedar Ridge for 10 years to become a beautician/hair dresser. When she loses her job and has to come home, Lily is not only facing her guilty yet misguided feeling of causing her sister’s death, she also has to face the one man she has always had feelings for, Aidan Kincaid. Aidan was devastated when Lily left without a backward glance. He moved on to become a firefighter and rescue worker, but never forgot his budding feelings for Lily. Aidan and Lily meet again and the feelings are still strong.
I absolutely loved the family dynamics in this story. Aiden, his brother Gray and wife Penny, twin brothers Hudson and Jacob and little sister Kenna along with their mother Char make up the Kincaid’s. They manage to support each other while having some fun with a lot of teasing and a few fights as well. Lily hasn’t had the same familial support as Aiden and it takes her some time to get used to having them in her life.
We get to see both Lily and Aiden in their work environments which give us some good laughs but also makes this story realistic. Lily has a great friend who provides her a with job doing what she loves and it was funny seeing Aiden come back for regular head massages and treatments just to spend time with her. We also get to read about the stress and demands of Aiden’s job and the risks he and his colleagues take to save lives. Jill Shalvis is maybe not doing their profession any favours by making it sound so appealing to have these sexy men coming and save you. I might think about climbing a mountain to get rescued if Aiden or one of his mates came to rescue me.
This book left me on a high with a new group of characters to love. Second Chance Summer was a great story about love, trust and commitment and I definitely can’t wait to read about more of the Kincaid family.
This review and more can be found at http://edgyreviews.com/
You know how some authors mention they are putting out a new series and you start jumping up and down, nearly breaking your computer to get to the pre-order screen? Jill Shalvis is one of those authors for me. I know I will form a connection with her characters that will put a smile on my face and a glow in my cheeks. Well, this little ducky got an email from Ms Shalvis’s virtual assistant asking me (little ole me) to read and review Second Chance Summer. To say I was excited would be an understatement. I was ringing people, sending messages and gloating (just a little) to friends and family of my good fortune. This was a HUGE deal for me. I was determined to be objective and removed my fangirl hat for the job…halfway through though, that hat was back on. Jill Shalvis knows her stuff.
This story is about a second chance at love between main characters Lily and Aidan. Lily has been trying to move on from the grief of losing her sister Ashley and her father who both died within a week of each other. She left her hometown of Cedar Ridge for 10 years to become a beautician/hair dresser. When she loses her job and has to come home, Lily is not only facing her guilty yet misguided feeling of causing her sister’s death, she also has to face the one man she has always had feelings for, Aidan Kincaid. Aidan was devastated when Lily left without a backward glance. He moved on to become a firefighter and rescue worker, but never forgot his budding feelings for Lily. Aidan and Lily meet again and the feelings are still strong.
I absolutely loved the family dynamics in this story. Aiden, his brother Gray and wife Penny, twin brothers Hudson and Jacob and little sister Kenna along with their mother Char make up the Kincaid’s. They manage to support each other while having some fun with a lot of teasing and a few fights as well. Lily hasn’t had the same familial support as Aiden and it takes her some time to get used to having them in her life.
We get to see both Lily and Aiden in their work environments which give us some good laughs but also makes this story realistic. Lily has a great friend who provides her a with job doing what she loves and it was funny seeing Aiden come back for regular head massages and treatments just to spend time with her. We also get to read about the stress and demands of Aiden’s job and the risks he and his colleagues take to save lives. Jill Shalvis is maybe not doing their profession any favours by making it sound so appealing to have these sexy men coming and save you. I might think about climbing a mountain to get rescued if Aiden or one of his mates came to rescue me.
This book left me on a high with a new group of characters to love. Second Chance Summer was a great story about love, trust and commitment and I definitely can’t wait to read about more of the Kincaid family.
This review and more can be found at http://edgyreviews.com/
August 18, 2016
5 - "Life's too short for fake butter, dip, or people." Stars!
Unbelievable as this statement may be, it is no less true; this is the first book that I have read by Jill Shalvis.
Have I been hiding under a rock, living with aliens or kidnapped and kept in someone’s basement for the last twenty years, you ask yourselves… The truth is, this author was one on a long, long list that I have that is titled; 'must read something by them soon’. I did, and I was absolutely hooked from the first chapter.
Cedar Ridge was rustic, remote and isolated, and only the hardy and durable lived there.
*Packs bags, and heads to the airport!!
I am a huge fan of a series that is set around a town/family and Jill Shalvis pretty much offered up everything I want to read in this type of book.
Having not read anything by her before I was interested to see how quickly the story got going in relation to Aidan and Lily, and how much background and character development would be included in respect of the secondary characters, and she pitched it perfectly. The information provided was enough to keep you informed, but it didn’t clog up the story developing between the main couple.
”You’ll get there when you get there. There’s no rush.”
I fell in love with the Kincaid family, and the verbal sparring and pranks that the brothers get up to through this story were pretty damn funny, add in a mother that they are all uber overprotective about and a little sister that they cannot help but play Big Brother with and you can tell that this family is just going to grow and grow on you with each additional book.
”She’d want you to live your life… not just mourn hers.”
Second chances, overcoming and embracing grief, reconnection with your old life and loves, as well as accepting that living in the past is not the way to move on into your future, are all important factors in this book. And reading Lily’s story, and the massive part that Aidan played in it; past and present took me as a reader on an enjoyable and at points a roller-coaster of emotions. I literally couldn’t put this book down because I enjoyed it that much. You root for this couple from the first chapter, up until the very end, and you are not left disappointed in any way.
I am lucky in that I have dozens and dozens of books, stories and characters to get to know by this author now, but I will be paying particular attention for My Kind of Wonderful; Hudson Kincaid’s book, which is due Christmas 2015, I have a feeling this series is going to be a keeper!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Unbelievable as this statement may be, it is no less true; this is the first book that I have read by Jill Shalvis.
Have I been hiding under a rock, living with aliens or kidnapped and kept in someone’s basement for the last twenty years, you ask yourselves… The truth is, this author was one on a long, long list that I have that is titled; 'must read something by them soon’. I did, and I was absolutely hooked from the first chapter.
Cedar Ridge was rustic, remote and isolated, and only the hardy and durable lived there.
*Packs bags, and heads to the airport!!
I am a huge fan of a series that is set around a town/family and Jill Shalvis pretty much offered up everything I want to read in this type of book.
Having not read anything by her before I was interested to see how quickly the story got going in relation to Aidan and Lily, and how much background and character development would be included in respect of the secondary characters, and she pitched it perfectly. The information provided was enough to keep you informed, but it didn’t clog up the story developing between the main couple.
”You’ll get there when you get there. There’s no rush.”
I fell in love with the Kincaid family, and the verbal sparring and pranks that the brothers get up to through this story were pretty damn funny, add in a mother that they are all uber overprotective about and a little sister that they cannot help but play Big Brother with and you can tell that this family is just going to grow and grow on you with each additional book.
”She’d want you to live your life… not just mourn hers.”
Second chances, overcoming and embracing grief, reconnection with your old life and loves, as well as accepting that living in the past is not the way to move on into your future, are all important factors in this book. And reading Lily’s story, and the massive part that Aidan played in it; past and present took me as a reader on an enjoyable and at points a roller-coaster of emotions. I literally couldn’t put this book down because I enjoyed it that much. You root for this couple from the first chapter, up until the very end, and you are not left disappointed in any way.
I am lucky in that I have dozens and dozens of books, stories and characters to get to know by this author now, but I will be paying particular attention for My Kind of Wonderful; Hudson Kincaid’s book, which is due Christmas 2015, I have a feeling this series is going to be a keeper!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
June 24, 2015
This book is exactly what I needed to get me out of my book funk!!
I've been cruising the 3-star and 2-star waves lately but this book with its humor, interesting family dynamics and small town setting was just what I needed.
Lilly Danville has been running away from Cedar Ridge starting from the day she lost her sister to a climbing accident and her father in a span of the week. But now she's back after losing her job, her boyfriend and her dignity. Aidan Kincaid had a few regrets in his life. One of them is letting Lilly walk away all those years ago. But now Lilly is back but she's still running from the ghost chasing her and it's up to Aidan to remind her of the reasons why she should stay in Cedar Ridge with him for good.
While the romance between Lilly and Aidan is definitely front and center in this book, there are a few elements added which made the story a lot more interesting to me. There's Aidan's complicated but loving relationship with his mother and siblings and their struggle with running the Cedar Ridge resort after their worthless father left them all in debt. The banter between the Kincaid siblings were hilarious. It's one of my favorite parts of the book.
Lilly's story was heart breaking. I'm usually allergic to heroines who run away from their problems but here, I could totally understand and sympathize with Lilly. Her guilt was misplaced but understandable.
Another thing I liked about this book was the competence its characters. Aidan works helps out at the family resort. He also works for Search & Rescue and a volunteer firefighter. Lilly works as a cosmetologist. And we actually see them WORK! We see Aidan and Lilly working at becoming together while dealing with dealing with work schedules and stuff. I just found that refreshing and realistic because most of the time, in romance books, once the main characters meet, they suddenly act like they don't have jobs. Here, their careers are things they have to master to make their relationship work. And I loved that!
Overall, another excellent start to a series for Jill Shalvis. I know Aidan's brothers are getting their own book, so I'm definitely looking forward to those.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2015
Lily Danville left Cedar Ridge 15 years ago after a terrible tragedy. Now she's back home after an incident that blacklisted her, preventing her from getting work elsewhere. Aidan Kincaid, a firefighter and Search & Rescue volunteer, never forgot his first love and now that she's back...well, who knows.
I wanted to love this book! Aidan is beyond wonderful, with all of his perfections and flaws, and his innate nature to rescue people. The Kincaid family is extraordinary, messy, funny and fiercely protective of one another. I was captivated by that whole family.
The romance is what fell completely flat for me. Lily was a frustrating enigma who I tried hard to connect with but couldn't. Her reasoning for keeping Aidan at bay felt hollow, unrealistic and irritating. I tried but couldn't even like her that much.
While the romance failed (for me), everything else about the story was delightful. The Kincaid family dynamics were often hilarious, always entertaining. The next book, which is previewed in this one, has already hooked me. The romance, at least from the first chapter, seems much more promising. 3.5 stars
I wanted to love this book! Aidan is beyond wonderful, with all of his perfections and flaws, and his innate nature to rescue people. The Kincaid family is extraordinary, messy, funny and fiercely protective of one another. I was captivated by that whole family.
The romance is what fell completely flat for me. Lily was a frustrating enigma who I tried hard to connect with but couldn't. Her reasoning for keeping Aidan at bay felt hollow, unrealistic and irritating. I tried but couldn't even like her that much.
While the romance failed (for me), everything else about the story was delightful. The Kincaid family dynamics were often hilarious, always entertaining. The next book, which is previewed in this one, has already hooked me. The romance, at least from the first chapter, seems much more promising. 3.5 stars
August 10, 2015
Poignant and exciting, romantic and sexy! I love Jill Shalvis's stories, and Second Chance Summer is Jill Shalvis at her best!
July 5, 2015
4.5 "Think of Me" STARS
This was my second book by Jill Shalvis and I must say, I really like this author. Like with Simply Irresistible, I'm left basking in the warm and fuzzy feelings of this sweet and heartwarming story. Ms. Shalvis has a way of bringing you into the fold of not only the characters' hearts and minds but also into the town in which the story takes place.
This tale is about a second chance romance between Lily Danville and Aidan Kincaid. Lily is returning to Cedar Ridge after 10 years, forced to face her past and the tragedy that she fled from many years ago. Of course, Aidan was also the object of her desires but circumstances kept these two apart.
Aidan Kincaid is the second oldest in the Kincaid Clan and also a Cedar Ridge firefighter, Search and Rescue volunteer and part owner of the family resort. Like Lily, Aidan hasn't forgotten the one that got away and is surprised to learn she's returning to Cedar Ridge.
Here ensues a wonderful story of two people working through their past; learning to forgive and forge a future together. We also get to meet the other Kincaids and Ms. Shalvis gives us an unique and endearing family with their own set of troubles but with a love and loyalty for one another that is fierce and endless.
Aidan is not only an achingly sexy, alpha male, he's also tender and sweet with Lily and is a relentless protector of those he cares for.
This was a fantastic start to a wonderful new series. I'm already anxious for Hudson's story and looking forward to getting to know all of the Kincaids and more about the quirky and likable inhabitants of Cedar Ridge. I highly recommend this book and this author! If you are looking for a fun, romantic and heartwarming read, this is for you.
**ARC was generously provided to me via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
For more reviews and blog posts.
This was my second book by Jill Shalvis and I must say, I really like this author. Like with Simply Irresistible, I'm left basking in the warm and fuzzy feelings of this sweet and heartwarming story. Ms. Shalvis has a way of bringing you into the fold of not only the characters' hearts and minds but also into the town in which the story takes place.
This tale is about a second chance romance between Lily Danville and Aidan Kincaid. Lily is returning to Cedar Ridge after 10 years, forced to face her past and the tragedy that she fled from many years ago. Of course, Aidan was also the object of her desires but circumstances kept these two apart.
Aidan Kincaid is the second oldest in the Kincaid Clan and also a Cedar Ridge firefighter, Search and Rescue volunteer and part owner of the family resort. Like Lily, Aidan hasn't forgotten the one that got away and is surprised to learn she's returning to Cedar Ridge.
Here ensues a wonderful story of two people working through their past; learning to forgive and forge a future together. We also get to meet the other Kincaids and Ms. Shalvis gives us an unique and endearing family with their own set of troubles but with a love and loyalty for one another that is fierce and endless.
Aidan is not only an achingly sexy, alpha male, he's also tender and sweet with Lily and is a relentless protector of those he cares for.
This was a fantastic start to a wonderful new series. I'm already anxious for Hudson's story and looking forward to getting to know all of the Kincaids and more about the quirky and likable inhabitants of Cedar Ridge. I highly recommend this book and this author! If you are looking for a fun, romantic and heartwarming read, this is for you.
**ARC was generously provided to me via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
For more reviews and blog posts.
July 19, 2015
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
I really enjoyed every minute of this story. I am pretty sure that this is the first book by Jill Shalvis that I have read which is pretty amazing when you consider how many books she has written and the fact that I am constantly reading. I honestly don't know how I have missed her work. I guess I have a little catching up to do as soon as I get the chance.
This is one of those rare cases when I can tell you exactly the one thing that made me love this book. That one thing is Aiden. He is just a fantastic character and I loved absolutely every single thing about him. If I lived in Cedar Ridge, I would probably get myself lost in the woods just so he could come and save me. Every page that Aiden was on left me smiling. All I have to do is think about this hot firefighting guy and I still find myself grinning. It has been a really long time since I fell head over heels in love with Hero like this.
Don't get me wrong, I liked Lily as well but she was no Aiden. Lily had some spunk and was able to accept what life had brought her. She wasn't happy about her situation but she tried to make the most of it. The way that she dealt with the issues from her past felt authentic to me and I have to admit that I would not have handled gathering my own wood nearly as well as she did in this story.
I loved all of Aiden's family and his firefighter partner, Mitch. I think that sometimes romance novels can get bogged down by too many additional characters but every single character that was introduced in this book actually added to the story. The cast of characters in this story added a lot of lighthearted humor which really made the book a lot of fun. I am really looking forward to seeing some of these characters again in future installments.
I liked Aiden and Lily as a couple. I liked the fact that this was a second chance romance with both of them still having feelings for each other. I think in this case the fact that they were both hesitant to jump into anything really showed how much they cared about each other. In some ways, their relationship seemed to move very quickly but they still held something back from each other. I did like the way the romance progressed overall.
I would recommend this book to fans of contemporary romance. This is the first book in the new series by Jill Shalvis and it is a great place to start for readers new to this author like I was. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book which I am really hoping will tell Mitch's story.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
I really enjoyed every minute of this story. I am pretty sure that this is the first book by Jill Shalvis that I have read which is pretty amazing when you consider how many books she has written and the fact that I am constantly reading. I honestly don't know how I have missed her work. I guess I have a little catching up to do as soon as I get the chance.
This is one of those rare cases when I can tell you exactly the one thing that made me love this book. That one thing is Aiden. He is just a fantastic character and I loved absolutely every single thing about him. If I lived in Cedar Ridge, I would probably get myself lost in the woods just so he could come and save me. Every page that Aiden was on left me smiling. All I have to do is think about this hot firefighting guy and I still find myself grinning. It has been a really long time since I fell head over heels in love with Hero like this.
Don't get me wrong, I liked Lily as well but she was no Aiden. Lily had some spunk and was able to accept what life had brought her. She wasn't happy about her situation but she tried to make the most of it. The way that she dealt with the issues from her past felt authentic to me and I have to admit that I would not have handled gathering my own wood nearly as well as she did in this story.
I loved all of Aiden's family and his firefighter partner, Mitch. I think that sometimes romance novels can get bogged down by too many additional characters but every single character that was introduced in this book actually added to the story. The cast of characters in this story added a lot of lighthearted humor which really made the book a lot of fun. I am really looking forward to seeing some of these characters again in future installments.
I liked Aiden and Lily as a couple. I liked the fact that this was a second chance romance with both of them still having feelings for each other. I think in this case the fact that they were both hesitant to jump into anything really showed how much they cared about each other. In some ways, their relationship seemed to move very quickly but they still held something back from each other. I did like the way the romance progressed overall.
I would recommend this book to fans of contemporary romance. This is the first book in the new series by Jill Shalvis and it is a great place to start for readers new to this author like I was. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book which I am really hoping will tell Mitch's story.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley for the purpose of providing an honest review.
September 3, 2015
This was my first book by Jill Shalvis, but it won't be my last. It was sexy, sweet, funny and flowed really well. I loved this authors writing style as well, very focused and not riddled with filler. Aidan was delicious. He was that perfect combo of manly sexy mixed with vulnerability.
I liked Lily for the most part, although her stubbornness over not getting involved with Aidan wore on my nerves. There was funny banter, interesting secondary plot lines and some well done steam--definitely checking out more by this author.
I liked Lily for the most part, although her stubbornness over not getting involved with Aidan wore on my nerves. There was funny banter, interesting secondary plot lines and some well done steam--definitely checking out more by this author.
March 30, 2019
Review coming soon.
March 18, 2016
Sweet romantic, adventurous hero, recovery, and second chance love.
Lilly, is coming back home with her tail between her legs. She was fired from a high end salon in San Diego after a big leak from her about a certain star. Blacklisted and humbled to the bone, she is home to face the demons that made her run a decade ago.
Aidan, it the hottie rescue guy about the mountain, and one of three brothers who happen to own the resort she ends up working at. Aidan, never forgot Lilly, didn't understand why she left or why she didn't return his calls. His family runs the resort where she will be working, a struggling resort. He wants to talk to her to know why, and he's frustrated with her distance. It's a good thing he is tenacious.
The romance is a hard one, the dead sister is a wall that Lilly will not break down. She is riddled with guilt and too much inner dialog in my humble opinion. This girl thinks, and goes over ridiculous thoughts and what if's, She might have irritated me, okay she did. I can't stand it when somebody doesn't just say it. That is my only complaint, really.
I enjoyed the story loved the brothers and the Mother was a blast. There is a lot of fun in these pages and some hot and spicy moments too. I already ordered book 2
Lilly, is coming back home with her tail between her legs. She was fired from a high end salon in San Diego after a big leak from her about a certain star. Blacklisted and humbled to the bone, she is home to face the demons that made her run a decade ago.
Aidan, it the hottie rescue guy about the mountain, and one of three brothers who happen to own the resort she ends up working at. Aidan, never forgot Lilly, didn't understand why she left or why she didn't return his calls. His family runs the resort where she will be working, a struggling resort. He wants to talk to her to know why, and he's frustrated with her distance. It's a good thing he is tenacious.
The romance is a hard one, the dead sister is a wall that Lilly will not break down. She is riddled with guilt and too much inner dialog in my humble opinion. This girl thinks, and goes over ridiculous thoughts and what if's, She might have irritated me, okay she did. I can't stand it when somebody doesn't just say it. That is my only complaint, really.
I enjoyed the story loved the brothers and the Mother was a blast. There is a lot of fun in these pages and some hot and spicy moments too. I already ordered book 2
July 5, 2017
Achei este livro muito banal e simples. As personagens sem grande personalidade. Gostei da estória paralela sobre o paradeiro do pai destes irmãos...mas em termos de romance, achei este livro fraco.
Vou pelo menos ler p segundo porque dizem que é bem melhor, vamos ver.
Vou pelo menos ler p segundo porque dizem que é bem melhor, vamos ver.
January 6, 2016
I really enjoyed this book! I loved that there was humor, family, romance and a beautiful setting. This was so good! I can't wait to read the next book in this series!
June 29, 2015
Finally a new Jill Shalvis series!!! ☺☺☺
And to make it even better - the new book features sexy as hell FIREFIGHTERS!!!!!!!
#HotHotHot
...someone please shake a japanese fan in front of my face!!!
Our sexy fireman in this first book is Aiden Kincaid....
No idea what he looks like - but this is him in my head ☺ ↓↓↓
Aiden works for the fire department, plus he's a search and rescue hero in his free time.
And the town of Cedar Ridge has a huge need for both his professions.
His personal life is equally busy. He's running the town's resort with his siblings.
And the financial situation is not really all that good-looking at the moment.
Our heroine - Lily ...
...left town 10 years ago and broke Aiden's heart.
But of course her heart was broken too after everything that happened....(what that 'everything' was, I'm not telling you of course ☺)
But now she's back - after having gone through some bad months ...
And who's the first person she encounters??? Yup - Aiden - the one guy she wanted to avoid at all costs....
And he hasn't changed one bit...well, the hot boy turned into an even hotter man and she's still horribly attracted to him. But she has too many other problems on her mind, she needs to NOT fall for him again!
Easier said than done though ☺
Lots of problems to overcome by both of our darlings until they can/will/might/maybe/could/would get their Happy End....
and until then, let's just look at another hot - stripping - fireman!!! ☺
WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO LiLY & AiDEN???
WiLL THERE BE A HEA???
WiLL THERE BE A CLiFFHANGER???
Nope . . . I'm not telling you ☺
_________________________________
Such a beautiful & funny & moving story!
After I finished Jill's last Lucky Harbor book, I didn't know if anything new could compare to that amazing town. But Cedar Ridge and its hot firefighters & its Kincaid family.... yayyyy!! I love it!!!!
The book had me laughing out loud within the first few chapters....
and even though it takes them a while to get there - we of course have some VERY SEXY & ROMANTIC SCENES
and of course with all Aiden's and Lily's bad and troubled pasts - there were a few MOVING & SAD SCENES
I loved every second of this first book in Jill's new series! And now - can I pleeeeaaaase have my own Aiden?!?!
Second Chance Summer was an amazingly adorable and sexy and funny and moving and slightly suspensy romance, about - you guessed it - second chances! ☺ An amazing start to a new series by Jill Shalvis!
And now please hurry Madame Shalvis - I need more sexy Cedar Ridgers!!!!
August 1, 2015
I spent most of this book waiting for the main characters to get over themselves, already, and talk. Seriously, the first half of this book would have been short-circuited by a single discussion and every encounter where they didn't have that discussion was excruciating.
Which is too bad. Both Lily and Aiden are my favorite types of characters, normally. Strong, kind, protective man. Brave, caring, and adventurous woman. Seriously, I should have been half in love by chapter two. And I kind of started down that path, only to be brought up short by their emotionally-stunted stupidity. Seriously, I had a very hard time.
Things smooth out a bit after the half-way point and at least Aiden isn't the typical commitment-phobe you sometimes get in these stories. He's quiet and frustrating, but not stereotypical. And Lily starts making break throughs as soon as she starts actually talking to people, and that helped, too. Not that Shalvis didn't throw in a few dumb moments that felt very out of place, even then.
So minor smoothing toward the end and some interesting side characters kept me going enough to end the book. I'll almost certainly pick up the next. But this was still very disappointing to me.
A note about Steamy: Mid level steam for me. Maybe a bit upward. Three explicit scenes, and some of them went on a bit. It took them forever to get that far, though, so it felt like they were bigger than they were because they were so crammed in towards the end.
Which is too bad. Both Lily and Aiden are my favorite types of characters, normally. Strong, kind, protective man. Brave, caring, and adventurous woman. Seriously, I should have been half in love by chapter two. And I kind of started down that path, only to be brought up short by their emotionally-stunted stupidity. Seriously, I had a very hard time.
Things smooth out a bit after the half-way point and at least Aiden isn't the typical commitment-phobe you sometimes get in these stories. He's quiet and frustrating, but not stereotypical. And Lily starts making break throughs as soon as she starts actually talking to people, and that helped, too. Not that Shalvis didn't throw in a few dumb moments that felt very out of place, even then.
So minor smoothing toward the end and some interesting side characters kept me going enough to end the book. I'll almost certainly pick up the next. But this was still very disappointing to me.
A note about Steamy: Mid level steam for me. Maybe a bit upward. Three explicit scenes, and some of them went on a bit. It took them forever to get that far, though, so it felt like they were bigger than they were because they were so crammed in towards the end.
June 30, 2015
Jill Shalvis is one of my favorite authors so when I heard she was starting up a new series, I was excited. Cedar Ridge kind of reminds me a little of her other series, Wilder. It’s the outdoorsy type but if you mix that a little with Lucky Harbor, you’ve got the perfect combination of small-town coziness and hot adventure.
Lily Danville to Cedar Ridge, Colorado where she encounters Aiden Kincaid, a smoking hot firefighter who seriously heats things up in this book. Shalvis takes a very light approach to this book, introducing the various potential male leads in Aiden’s brother, etc. There’s a lot of teasing and roughhousing amongst them that never failed to put a smile on my face. But it seems to take up a lot of the first half of the book. This didn’t bother me so much since I did find it entertaining but the romance doesn’t really develop until further on in the book.
Lily and Aiden have a past that they need to overcome and part of the allure of this book is seeing how they come to trust each other once again. You can expect a lot of the same flirty and silly antics that Jill Shalvis is known for but this one has a more “guy” feel to it. SECOND CHANCE SUMMER is bursting with testosterone and I think Shalvis may have some of her very best heroes in this promising new series!
![Profile Image for Michelle [Helen Geek].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1448463806i/5557851._CR0,13,200,200_.jpg)
July 5, 2015
07/03/2015 --
This was just an okay read for me. It seemed a bit inconsistent. I may have missed something, but this is the start of a new series, but it seemed like this one started in the middle.
Lily is supposed to be the brave, skilled mountain girl. But, we really don't see this. We hear about it. Aiden and his brother reference it and her skill, but we don't see it in action. This smacks of poor story development and it isn't my experience with Ms. Shalvis. Not sure what is going on, but I've thought her last few books are average and don't pull me like some I've enjoyed of a few years ago. She may have lost her mojo or maybe I've lost my interest in her storytelling.
Still slumping ..
Happy Reading!
ARC provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was just an okay read for me. It seemed a bit inconsistent. I may have missed something, but this is the start of a new series, but it seemed like this one started in the middle.
Lily is supposed to be the brave, skilled mountain girl. But, we really don't see this. We hear about it. Aiden and his brother reference it and her skill, but we don't see it in action. This smacks of poor story development and it isn't my experience with Ms. Shalvis. Not sure what is going on, but I've thought her last few books are average and don't pull me like some I've enjoyed of a few years ago. She may have lost her mojo or maybe I've lost my interest in her storytelling.
Still slumping ..
Happy Reading!
ARC provided by Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2015
Fun and sweet wrapped up in a sexy package. A heartwarming start to a series that made me laugh, blush and left me wanting more.
Lily and Aidan were young, but they were sure they had found a unique connection with one another under the Rocky Mountains’ blue skies and pine-scented hiking trails. Until Lily’s sister claimed Aidan as hers and then tragedy struck, twice.
Unable stay in her hometown and face the guilt and constant memories of the people she loved but would never see again, Lilly left forever never looking back, until she returned. Lily doesn’t want to go back to Cedar Ridge, but she’s out of options. Can she face the ghosts of her past as well as the sexy firefighter with the overwhelming smile?
Rescuing people is second nature to Aidan Kincaid. He and his brothers don’t just help others, they drop everything to help their family and their own. Ten years ago he let Lily go. Now that she’s back, Aidan has been helping Lily with scaring snakes off, carrying logs and patching up bruises in-between sweet and sultry kisses. But can he convince Lily to stay long enough so he can save her from herself and give them a real chance?
Jill Shalvis writes amazingly sexy, protective, take charge and utterly warm and sweet alpha males. Aidan Kincaid is no exception. For the past decade, he tried to mend his crushed heart and move on. But once Lily was back, I loved how his long ago mangled soul couldn’t hold on to its hurt. He understood Lily’s reasons for leaving and didn’t give up on her or them. Making sure she understands that he’ll be there to support her.
Lily was a really great match for Aidan, even though there was hesitancy on her part which I could understand to a degree. She’s strong and independent, but she carries guilt and self-blame, which are strong emotions and not easy to deal with especially when she had no support system, like family and friends, to help her through it. So I was very happy when she finally gave in to the love and care of a wonderful man.
I’m always on the fence with second chance romances. I like to experience the feels but in all honesty angst isn’t one of my favorites and this type of trope can easily take you to over the top drama and anxiety. But as I’ve come to know Jill Shalvis’ writing, she gives us a great romance, with of course some stormy weather the characters have to live through but mostly a lot of communication and understanding that moves the story along in a beautiful way that’s so easy to enjoy.
Even though I feel there could’ve been more details about their pasts and the time they were apart, I loved every single interaction between Aidan and Lily. From the humorous times when Aidan swoops in to help the damsel in distress even though she stresses she doesn’t need it, to the even more humorous moments they had in the beauty salon, to the incredibly molten hot ones.
I love how Jill not only develops loveable main characters, she also builds an entire community around them with friends and family with gorgeous backdrops I relish reading about. Aidan’s mother was a total hoot and the camaraderie and kinship with his brother’s and sister severed to pull me in further. No matter whether they’re in an emergency situation or just hanging out, the shenanigans between these guys never stop. (Two words for you: man sack!)
Jill Shalvis has become an automatic go-to author for her fabulous writing, wonderful plots and character development. I cannot wait to read more of this new series to see how the Kincaids save their family business while keeping up with the hijinks.
Book Facts: Second Chance Summer is book #1 in the Cedar Ridge series by Jill Shalvis. It’s written from both points of view. Can be read as a standalone with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/1f1Gtv7
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via the author’s publicist. The excerpts are from that copy. *
Pinterest board -> https://www.pinterest.com/jillshalvis...
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
Lily and Aidan were young, but they were sure they had found a unique connection with one another under the Rocky Mountains’ blue skies and pine-scented hiking trails. Until Lily’s sister claimed Aidan as hers and then tragedy struck, twice.
“Lily’s charms had been more internal, an inner warmth behind her adventurous spirit that Aidan had been inexplicably drawn to… They’d been two adventurous souls, kindred spirits.”
Unable stay in her hometown and face the guilt and constant memories of the people she loved but would never see again, Lilly left forever never looking back, until she returned. Lily doesn’t want to go back to Cedar Ridge, but she’s out of options. Can she face the ghosts of her past as well as the sexy firefighter with the overwhelming smile?
“She’d left because of grief. She’d stayed away because of guilt. Not because of him. The knowledge at once changed things for him and also devastated him—for her.”
Rescuing people is second nature to Aidan Kincaid. He and his brothers don’t just help others, they drop everything to help their family and their own. Ten years ago he let Lily go. Now that she’s back, Aidan has been helping Lily with scaring snakes off, carrying logs and patching up bruises in-between sweet and sultry kisses. But can he convince Lily to stay long enough so he can save her from herself and give them a real chance?
“He wanted to soothe, to help ease the pain, but wasn’t sure how to do that without losing his heart and soul to her. Again.”
Jill Shalvis writes amazingly sexy, protective, take charge and utterly warm and sweet alpha males. Aidan Kincaid is no exception. For the past decade, he tried to mend his crushed heart and move on. But once Lily was back, I loved how his long ago mangled soul couldn’t hold on to its hurt. He understood Lily’s reasons for leaving and didn’t give up on her or them. Making sure she understands that he’ll be there to support her.
“This is too important to ignore… You’re too important. What we’re working on here is too important.”
Her gaze skittered away. “What we’re working on?”
“Yeah,” he said. “Us.”
Lily was a really great match for Aidan, even though there was hesitancy on her part which I could understand to a degree. She’s strong and independent, but she carries guilt and self-blame, which are strong emotions and not easy to deal with especially when she had no support system, like family and friends, to help her through it. So I was very happy when she finally gave in to the love and care of a wonderful man.
I’m always on the fence with second chance romances. I like to experience the feels but in all honesty angst isn’t one of my favorites and this type of trope can easily take you to over the top drama and anxiety. But as I’ve come to know Jill Shalvis’ writing, she gives us a great romance, with of course some stormy weather the characters have to live through but mostly a lot of communication and understanding that moves the story along in a beautiful way that’s so easy to enjoy.
“What do you want from me?” she blurted out.
He picked up her purse and handed it over. “Worried?”
“A little… Or, you know, a lot.”
His smile was warm and made her throat tighten. “This,” he said, and put a hand over her heart. “I want this.”
Even though I feel there could’ve been more details about their pasts and the time they were apart, I loved every single interaction between Aidan and Lily. From the humorous times when Aidan swoops in to help the damsel in distress even though she stresses she doesn’t need it, to the even more humorous moments they had in the beauty salon, to the incredibly molten hot ones.
I love how Jill not only develops loveable main characters, she also builds an entire community around them with friends and family with gorgeous backdrops I relish reading about. Aidan’s mother was a total hoot and the camaraderie and kinship with his brother’s and sister severed to pull me in further. No matter whether they’re in an emergency situation or just hanging out, the shenanigans between these guys never stop. (Two words for you: man sack!)
Jill Shalvis has become an automatic go-to author for her fabulous writing, wonderful plots and character development. I cannot wait to read more of this new series to see how the Kincaids save their family business while keeping up with the hijinks.
Book Facts: Second Chance Summer is book #1 in the Cedar Ridge series by Jill Shalvis. It’s written from both points of view. Can be read as a standalone with a happy ending.
Amazon -> http://amzn.to/1f1Gtv7
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via the author’s publicist. The excerpts are from that copy. *
Pinterest board -> https://www.pinterest.com/jillshalvis...
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
August 13, 2019
Lily Danville has just about lost everything. She has no money, no home and no job. Returning home to Cedar Ridge, Colorado might just be the fresh start she needs. Lily was fortunate enough to get a job almost right away. She will be working at the town's resort. Lily is none too happy, however, to discover the that resort is owned by the Kincaid family.
The Kincaid family. This is a problem because Lily is incredibly attracted to Aidan Kincaid. However, when she was younger, it was her sister that was head over heels for Aidan. Sadly, she lost her sister back then, and Lily is afraid to act on her feelings for Aidan. She wants her memories of her sister to be pure.
Meanwhile, Aidan is drawn to Lily and has never forgotten a kiss they shared ten years ago. Is this the opportunity for another chance between them? On the one hand, Aidan wants to pursue Lily, but he is incredibly busy as a wildlife firefighter. Aidan participates in a lot of search-and-rescue operations.
This story had a few layers to it. Lily and Aidan were growing closer, but a lot of attention was focused on the rescues, as well as other conflicts. Even so, I did enjoy this book by Jill Shalvis and have already downloaded the other two books, My Kind of Wonderful and Nobody But You. Even though this wasn't my favorite book by Jill Shalvis, I am really looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
The Kincaid family. This is a problem because Lily is incredibly attracted to Aidan Kincaid. However, when she was younger, it was her sister that was head over heels for Aidan. Sadly, she lost her sister back then, and Lily is afraid to act on her feelings for Aidan. She wants her memories of her sister to be pure.
Meanwhile, Aidan is drawn to Lily and has never forgotten a kiss they shared ten years ago. Is this the opportunity for another chance between them? On the one hand, Aidan wants to pursue Lily, but he is incredibly busy as a wildlife firefighter. Aidan participates in a lot of search-and-rescue operations.
This story had a few layers to it. Lily and Aidan were growing closer, but a lot of attention was focused on the rescues, as well as other conflicts. Even so, I did enjoy this book by Jill Shalvis and have already downloaded the other two books, My Kind of Wonderful and Nobody But You. Even though this wasn't my favorite book by Jill Shalvis, I am really looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
November 23, 2015
3-3.5 stars
Hooray for a new Jill Shalvis series! I swear, her small town romances never fail to charm. Whether they’re set right next to a beautiful coast, on the wide open spaces of a ranch, or deep within the mountains, they always feel like coming home. The characters – new and old – worm their way into my heart each and every time. Now, I’ve always been a city girl myself, but I’ll gladly reconsider if it means I’ll find the man of my dreams and a more fulfilling career. If there’s ever a time to think, “Why can’t this be real life?” it’s while reading a Jill Shalvis book.
This time around we’re losing our hearts way up in the Rocky Mountains, in a resort town called Cedar Ridge. It’s there we’re introduced to the Kincaid family – the men as rugged and unyielding as the place they call home. They’re a makeshift bunch that has had its share of heartbreak, thanks to a father who started three different families, but they're also closely knitted and fiercely loyal. There’s the book’s hero, Aidan, his older brother Gray, their half-sibling twins, Hudson and Jacob, and their half-sister Kenna. At the center of this wonderfully messy family is Aidan’s mom, who I hope continues to play a strong role in the upcoming books. Her antics and meddling were classic Jill Shalvis humor. One of my favorite things about Second Chance Summer is the dynamic among these characters. They tease each other mercilessly, they fight occasionally, and through it all they always offer support and a shoulder to lean on. I loved seeing the brothers interact and getting to know them that way. I can’t wait for Hudson and Jacob’s stories, and even though Gray is already married, his relationship with his wife is so adorable and I’d love to get a prequel novella for them.
Aidan, like all of Jill Shalvis’ men, was way too easy to fall in love with. He’s a firefighter and rescue worker, for one, so he’s got a definite hero complex and more than a little alpha in him. He’s a steady presence, never one to let fear get in the way of what needs doing, and he always puts his family first. Aidan thought he lost Lily ten years ago, when she walked out of his life and out of Cedar Ridge, and ever since he’s never felt that kind of connection with anyone. When she makes a return trip, his heart is thrown for a loop, even though he tells himself he won’t let her break it again. I was worried he’d be stubborn for most of the book, but it doesn’t take him long to admit that he never really stopped loving Lily. He’s such a sweetheart to her, wanting to shield her from what life has handed to her but at the same time patient when he knows she’s not ready to face what’s happening between them. It’s hilarious and adorable all the times Aidan had to save Lily from herself and from whatever mishap she accidentally got into. They played off each other so well.
Lily it took me more time to warm up to. She’s still grieving over the death of her sister and father ten years ago, and she just lost her upscale salon job in California. She’s heading home to Cedar Ridge down on her luck and not without some trepidation. While my heart definitely went out to her, I thought her reasons for keeping Aidan at arm’s length were weak. He was being such a great support system for her, but she constantly pushed him away out of fear. I think this is a formula Jill uses in most of her romances, and it works better for some than it does for others. The chemistry is definitely there between Lily and Aidan, but I thought the back and forth went on a little too long. Thankfully there’s a wonderful epilogue that leaves everything on a sweet and high note.
If you’re a fan of Jill Shalvis’ other series, definitely start her latest. Second Chance Summer has a loveable new cast of characters – and more specifically a group of sexy brothers – that are sure to charm you and have you wholeheartedly believing in true love.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for approving my request in exchange for an honest review!
This review can also be found at Love at First Page.
Hooray for a new Jill Shalvis series! I swear, her small town romances never fail to charm. Whether they’re set right next to a beautiful coast, on the wide open spaces of a ranch, or deep within the mountains, they always feel like coming home. The characters – new and old – worm their way into my heart each and every time. Now, I’ve always been a city girl myself, but I’ll gladly reconsider if it means I’ll find the man of my dreams and a more fulfilling career. If there’s ever a time to think, “Why can’t this be real life?” it’s while reading a Jill Shalvis book.
This time around we’re losing our hearts way up in the Rocky Mountains, in a resort town called Cedar Ridge. It’s there we’re introduced to the Kincaid family – the men as rugged and unyielding as the place they call home. They’re a makeshift bunch that has had its share of heartbreak, thanks to a father who started three different families, but they're also closely knitted and fiercely loyal. There’s the book’s hero, Aidan, his older brother Gray, their half-sibling twins, Hudson and Jacob, and their half-sister Kenna. At the center of this wonderfully messy family is Aidan’s mom, who I hope continues to play a strong role in the upcoming books. Her antics and meddling were classic Jill Shalvis humor. One of my favorite things about Second Chance Summer is the dynamic among these characters. They tease each other mercilessly, they fight occasionally, and through it all they always offer support and a shoulder to lean on. I loved seeing the brothers interact and getting to know them that way. I can’t wait for Hudson and Jacob’s stories, and even though Gray is already married, his relationship with his wife is so adorable and I’d love to get a prequel novella for them.
Aidan, like all of Jill Shalvis’ men, was way too easy to fall in love with. He’s a firefighter and rescue worker, for one, so he’s got a definite hero complex and more than a little alpha in him. He’s a steady presence, never one to let fear get in the way of what needs doing, and he always puts his family first. Aidan thought he lost Lily ten years ago, when she walked out of his life and out of Cedar Ridge, and ever since he’s never felt that kind of connection with anyone. When she makes a return trip, his heart is thrown for a loop, even though he tells himself he won’t let her break it again. I was worried he’d be stubborn for most of the book, but it doesn’t take him long to admit that he never really stopped loving Lily. He’s such a sweetheart to her, wanting to shield her from what life has handed to her but at the same time patient when he knows she’s not ready to face what’s happening between them. It’s hilarious and adorable all the times Aidan had to save Lily from herself and from whatever mishap she accidentally got into. They played off each other so well.
Lily it took me more time to warm up to. She’s still grieving over the death of her sister and father ten years ago, and she just lost her upscale salon job in California. She’s heading home to Cedar Ridge down on her luck and not without some trepidation. While my heart definitely went out to her, I thought her reasons for keeping Aidan at arm’s length were weak. He was being such a great support system for her, but she constantly pushed him away out of fear. I think this is a formula Jill uses in most of her romances, and it works better for some than it does for others. The chemistry is definitely there between Lily and Aidan, but I thought the back and forth went on a little too long. Thankfully there’s a wonderful epilogue that leaves everything on a sweet and high note.
If you’re a fan of Jill Shalvis’ other series, definitely start her latest. Second Chance Summer has a loveable new cast of characters – and more specifically a group of sexy brothers – that are sure to charm you and have you wholeheartedly believing in true love.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for approving my request in exchange for an honest review!
This review can also be found at Love at First Page.
July 28, 2016
Maravilhosas surpresa... :D lido em 12h :P
October 16, 2016
Um romance leve e de fácil leitura. A personagem de Char é maravilhosa. Adorei a dinâmica familiar, deve ser óptimo pertencer a uma família assim. Unida, protectora. Curiosa de ler os próximos livros
July 1, 2015
The first book of Jill Shalvis' CEDAR RIDGE series will entertain readers with male camaraderie full of pranks and wisecracking, as well as a love story jam-packed with emotion from heartrending to heartwarming.
Aidan Kincaid is a Colorado Wildland Firefighter as well as a local Search-and-Rescue volunteer, who still loves the girl that left him wondering what happened to their relationship. The fact that he still loves her but doesn't want to see her again is as lost as he feels when Lily comes back to Cedar Ridge.
Lily Danville, hairstylist to the stars in San Diego, is down on her luck and finding herself back in Cedar Ridge after she swore she wouldn't return ten years ago when her sister tragically died. When Lily realizes that her new job is located at the Kincaid family's resort, near everything she doesn't want to remember, she almost turns tail and runs. But the small fact that she has nowhere else to go forces her up the mountain road to her future.
Lily is one funny, crazy girl who kicks off this first novel in the CEDAR RIDGE series wearing Uggs and a sundress into a store to buy a pile of munchies, only to run into Aidan Kincaid as she's slipping quietly out the door. Well, she's not exactly quiet, because she knocks down a display before scrambling out the door, without her keys.
Aidan Kincaid really wants to avoid Lily but the store clerk insists that he take the lady her car keys. He can't help but see the humor in the situation and his amused voice grabs Lily by the heart. Can Lily work at Aidan's family's resort without letting her heartbroken memories of her sister cloud her judgement about everything else? Will Aidan change his dangerous lifestyle for the woman who fears it all? Read their engaging story to find out.
SECOND CHANCE SUMMER explores the heartrending circumstances that separated two young people when they were at the cusp of their mutual attraction for one another. Ten years later, they have to face their inner demons, or lose the love they both deserve.
I found Aidan and his friends, as well as his brothers, highly entertaining. They're smart alecks toward one another because they have a lifetime of ammunition to use against each other. Their antics often lightened tense moments, which offsets the danger they face in a mountain resort area where anything can happen.
As quirky as Lily is, she also has a heartrending story to tell. Her friends at the salon where she works are very funny and the gossip that occurs can really stir up some trouble for everyone. I think that Lily and Aidan are well-matched, while this book allowed me to get to know the other characters through their interactions with this couple. It's a great kick-off to a series that fans will enjoy and a good example for first-timers to find out why we keep coming back for more.
Expect a rolling wave of emotion while reading SECOND CHANCE SUMMER. Jill Shalvis once again works her magic by tugging at our heartstrings, then soothing them with laugh-out-loud dialogue and mannerisms. I cried and laughed my way through this book and especially enjoyed the Colorado setting that serves as a great backdrop for a love story. I’m thankful we don't have long to wait for book two, MY KIND OF WONDERFUL, coming in December 2015, then book three, NOBODY BUT YOU will release in late March 2016.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies and The Zest Quest. eARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
Aidan Kincaid is a Colorado Wildland Firefighter as well as a local Search-and-Rescue volunteer, who still loves the girl that left him wondering what happened to their relationship. The fact that he still loves her but doesn't want to see her again is as lost as he feels when Lily comes back to Cedar Ridge.
Lily Danville, hairstylist to the stars in San Diego, is down on her luck and finding herself back in Cedar Ridge after she swore she wouldn't return ten years ago when her sister tragically died. When Lily realizes that her new job is located at the Kincaid family's resort, near everything she doesn't want to remember, she almost turns tail and runs. But the small fact that she has nowhere else to go forces her up the mountain road to her future.
Lily is one funny, crazy girl who kicks off this first novel in the CEDAR RIDGE series wearing Uggs and a sundress into a store to buy a pile of munchies, only to run into Aidan Kincaid as she's slipping quietly out the door. Well, she's not exactly quiet, because she knocks down a display before scrambling out the door, without her keys.
Aidan Kincaid really wants to avoid Lily but the store clerk insists that he take the lady her car keys. He can't help but see the humor in the situation and his amused voice grabs Lily by the heart. Can Lily work at Aidan's family's resort without letting her heartbroken memories of her sister cloud her judgement about everything else? Will Aidan change his dangerous lifestyle for the woman who fears it all? Read their engaging story to find out.
SECOND CHANCE SUMMER explores the heartrending circumstances that separated two young people when they were at the cusp of their mutual attraction for one another. Ten years later, they have to face their inner demons, or lose the love they both deserve.
I found Aidan and his friends, as well as his brothers, highly entertaining. They're smart alecks toward one another because they have a lifetime of ammunition to use against each other. Their antics often lightened tense moments, which offsets the danger they face in a mountain resort area where anything can happen.
As quirky as Lily is, she also has a heartrending story to tell. Her friends at the salon where she works are very funny and the gossip that occurs can really stir up some trouble for everyone. I think that Lily and Aidan are well-matched, while this book allowed me to get to know the other characters through their interactions with this couple. It's a great kick-off to a series that fans will enjoy and a good example for first-timers to find out why we keep coming back for more.
Expect a rolling wave of emotion while reading SECOND CHANCE SUMMER. Jill Shalvis once again works her magic by tugging at our heartstrings, then soothing them with laugh-out-loud dialogue and mannerisms. I cried and laughed my way through this book and especially enjoyed the Colorado setting that serves as a great backdrop for a love story. I’m thankful we don't have long to wait for book two, MY KIND OF WONDERFUL, coming in December 2015, then book three, NOBODY BUT YOU will release in late March 2016.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies and The Zest Quest. eARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley.
June 5, 2016
Second Chance Summer is the first book of Jill Shalvis's new series, Cedar Ridge. As I keep saying it that I love Jill Shalvis, there was no surprise when I picked this book as soon as it was released. And it was indeed a great read!
Jill Shalvis has a knack of creating these perfect, adorable towns. Like Lucky Harbor, I fell in love with this town Cedar Ridge based in Colorado.
Lily Danville has returned to Cedar Ridge after a decade. When some tragic occur accidents in her life Lily can't cope up with those and she gives up living in the town and goes to San Diego. When she runs into trouble there and is out of job, after ten years she is forced to return to Cedar Ridge as her friend Jonathan offers her a job.
Aidan Kincaid is a firefighter and volunteers for the local Search-and-Rescue team. He lives with his family in his family's Cedar Ridge Resort. The resort is struggling so he and his brothers are doing everything to save the family resort. He is very protective of his family. Aidan always had a thing for Lily but when she left town abruptly he was hurt, so when she returns to town, he tries to keep his distance from her and not get too emotionally involved but he can't stop himself from wanting to help and protect Lily.
Lily always had a crush on Aidan but due to some misunderstandings, she wants to keep distance but it doesn't happen that way of course. Her encounters with Aidan are pretty funny too. But they have great chemistry and so they can't stay away from each other. After some communication everything works out in the end.
I loved the story. Aidan and Lily were great, I quite liked Aidan's family as well. It was a great start to the series. I am looking forward to the next book. If you are looking for a Jill Shalvis book to read, Second Chance Summer is for you.
Some of my favourite quotes:
*
“He remembered kissing her… falling for her.
Then how she’d left the mountain without looking back, forgetting about him with shocking, heartbreaking ease.
Now she was back. And she’d kissed him like maybe she hadn’t forgotten him after all...”
*
“You’re not a job to me, Lily. Not even close. You’re more. And I think I’m more to you too. I think it’s not that you don’t feel anything, it’s that you feel too much. I scare you.”
*
“There were some men who just knew how to kiss, the kind of kiss that could send a woman reeling. The kind of kiss that could take away problems and awareness and … and everything. The kind of kiss that could shatter her into a trillion little pieces. The kind of kiss that somehow both calmed her body and soul even as it wound her up for more. Aidan was that kind of kisser.”
*
Check out http://abooklionshideaway.blogspot.in/ for more reviews.
Jill Shalvis has a knack of creating these perfect, adorable towns. Like Lucky Harbor, I fell in love with this town Cedar Ridge based in Colorado.
Lily Danville has returned to Cedar Ridge after a decade. When some tragic occur accidents in her life Lily can't cope up with those and she gives up living in the town and goes to San Diego. When she runs into trouble there and is out of job, after ten years she is forced to return to Cedar Ridge as her friend Jonathan offers her a job.
Aidan Kincaid is a firefighter and volunteers for the local Search-and-Rescue team. He lives with his family in his family's Cedar Ridge Resort. The resort is struggling so he and his brothers are doing everything to save the family resort. He is very protective of his family. Aidan always had a thing for Lily but when she left town abruptly he was hurt, so when she returns to town, he tries to keep his distance from her and not get too emotionally involved but he can't stop himself from wanting to help and protect Lily.
Lily always had a crush on Aidan but due to some misunderstandings, she wants to keep distance but it doesn't happen that way of course. Her encounters with Aidan are pretty funny too. But they have great chemistry and so they can't stay away from each other. After some communication everything works out in the end.
I loved the story. Aidan and Lily were great, I quite liked Aidan's family as well. It was a great start to the series. I am looking forward to the next book. If you are looking for a Jill Shalvis book to read, Second Chance Summer is for you.
Some of my favourite quotes:
*
“He remembered kissing her… falling for her.
Then how she’d left the mountain without looking back, forgetting about him with shocking, heartbreaking ease.
Now she was back. And she’d kissed him like maybe she hadn’t forgotten him after all...”
*
“You’re not a job to me, Lily. Not even close. You’re more. And I think I’m more to you too. I think it’s not that you don’t feel anything, it’s that you feel too much. I scare you.”
*
“There were some men who just knew how to kiss, the kind of kiss that could send a woman reeling. The kind of kiss that could take away problems and awareness and … and everything. The kind of kiss that could shatter her into a trillion little pieces. The kind of kiss that somehow both calmed her body and soul even as it wound her up for more. Aidan was that kind of kisser.”
*
Check out http://abooklionshideaway.blogspot.in/ for more reviews.
June 30, 2015
Read more reviews at What Danielle Did Next
3.5 stars
There’s something about a Jill Shalvis book that puts a smile on my face no matter how down I’m feeling. With her witty storytelling, quirky heroines and gorgeous heroes, she never fails to please.
SECOND CHANCE SUMMER is the first in her new series entitled Cedar Ridge. Set in Colorado, you can almost smell the crisp clean air of the mountains as she whisks you away to the small town setting amidst the fresh snowy powder and majestic peaks. Lily Danville never thought she’d be back in Cedar Ridge. Hightailing it out of there after losing her sister and father to tragic circumstances, Lily has never looked back even when it meant leaving Aidan Kincaid behind. After years of unanswered questions and old feelings gently slumbering, she has to face it all again when she loses her job and her best friend is the only one who’ll take a chance on her. Aidan Kincaid spends his days fighting fires and rescuing stray climbers and his nights trying to keep his mismatched group of siblings together. Abandoned years ago by their father, the Kincaids have had to fight and scratch for survival like feral cats always on the brink of disaster. When Lily walks back into town, Aidan finally has the chance to carve out a future of his very own. If only he can get lily to open up and tell him why she turned her back on them so many years ago.
You never really have to worry about how a Jill Shalvis book will turn out but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. How she takes you to that ending is what’s important and in SECOND CHANCE SUMMER, she really pulls on the heartstrings. All the old feelings are already there so there’s an extra depth to Lily and Aidan’s relationship because they know each other’s strengths and weaknesses already. The reader can sit back and enjoy their witty repartee and steamy encounters and not overly worry whenever drama comes knocking at the door. It’s a nice, simple romance that you can curl up with and put aside your worries of the day.
Because it’s the first in a series, it’s very much the set-up book for the others and so we are introduced to the rest of the Kincaid’s who we’ll inevitably get to know much better. I loved the rapport these siblings had with each other and the fierce love and protective nature they all had for one another despite how they all came together.
Overall, SECOND CHANCE SUMMER is a solid start to this series with plenty to delight the old and new Shalvis fans. I, for one can’t wait for more!!
3.5 stars
There’s something about a Jill Shalvis book that puts a smile on my face no matter how down I’m feeling. With her witty storytelling, quirky heroines and gorgeous heroes, she never fails to please.
SECOND CHANCE SUMMER is the first in her new series entitled Cedar Ridge. Set in Colorado, you can almost smell the crisp clean air of the mountains as she whisks you away to the small town setting amidst the fresh snowy powder and majestic peaks. Lily Danville never thought she’d be back in Cedar Ridge. Hightailing it out of there after losing her sister and father to tragic circumstances, Lily has never looked back even when it meant leaving Aidan Kincaid behind. After years of unanswered questions and old feelings gently slumbering, she has to face it all again when she loses her job and her best friend is the only one who’ll take a chance on her. Aidan Kincaid spends his days fighting fires and rescuing stray climbers and his nights trying to keep his mismatched group of siblings together. Abandoned years ago by their father, the Kincaids have had to fight and scratch for survival like feral cats always on the brink of disaster. When Lily walks back into town, Aidan finally has the chance to carve out a future of his very own. If only he can get lily to open up and tell him why she turned her back on them so many years ago.
You never really have to worry about how a Jill Shalvis book will turn out but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. How she takes you to that ending is what’s important and in SECOND CHANCE SUMMER, she really pulls on the heartstrings. All the old feelings are already there so there’s an extra depth to Lily and Aidan’s relationship because they know each other’s strengths and weaknesses already. The reader can sit back and enjoy their witty repartee and steamy encounters and not overly worry whenever drama comes knocking at the door. It’s a nice, simple romance that you can curl up with and put aside your worries of the day.
Because it’s the first in a series, it’s very much the set-up book for the others and so we are introduced to the rest of the Kincaid’s who we’ll inevitably get to know much better. I loved the rapport these siblings had with each other and the fierce love and protective nature they all had for one another despite how they all came together.
Overall, SECOND CHANCE SUMMER is a solid start to this series with plenty to delight the old and new Shalvis fans. I, for one can’t wait for more!!
July 8, 2015
3.5 Stars
(part of a joint review at The Book Nympho )
I LOVE second chance romances and if Jill Shalvis is writing it sign me up! Second Chance Summer was a solid start to the Cedar Ridge series.
I enjoyed the romance between Lily and Aidan (looks up, a bit more than Jonetta). They have past with each other in the small town of Cedar Ridge and after tens years all the feels are still there. Lily break Aidan’s heart when she left town and now that she’s back she is afraid that Aidan will break her heart.
Aidan’s kept himself closed off to other women after Lily so it’s no surprise that when Lily blows back into town that those walls come down. Lily was betrayed by an ex and has put up similar walls and after seeing Aidan again she tries to make those walls higher to keep him out. But they both loose the battle and it’s fun and heartbreaking to see it happen.
While I didn’t have the same issues with the romance part as Jonetta I did have issues believing the family connections between the Kincaids. I just find it odd that these children from other mothers would come to live with Aidan and Gray’s mother. But maybe over the course of the series and getting a full view of their backgrounds will make it more believable for me. In any case I enjoyed Second Chance Summer and can’t wait to read about Hudson’s HEA in the next installment, My Kind of Wonderful.
COYER Scavenger Hunt – #43 Read a book that takes place during the summer. 3 points
COYER Red, White & Blue Read-A-Thon – BLUE cover
(part of a joint review at The Book Nympho )
I LOVE second chance romances and if Jill Shalvis is writing it sign me up! Second Chance Summer was a solid start to the Cedar Ridge series.
I enjoyed the romance between Lily and Aidan (looks up, a bit more than Jonetta). They have past with each other in the small town of Cedar Ridge and after tens years all the feels are still there. Lily break Aidan’s heart when she left town and now that she’s back she is afraid that Aidan will break her heart.
Aidan’s kept himself closed off to other women after Lily so it’s no surprise that when Lily blows back into town that those walls come down. Lily was betrayed by an ex and has put up similar walls and after seeing Aidan again she tries to make those walls higher to keep him out. But they both loose the battle and it’s fun and heartbreaking to see it happen.
While I didn’t have the same issues with the romance part as Jonetta I did have issues believing the family connections between the Kincaids. I just find it odd that these children from other mothers would come to live with Aidan and Gray’s mother. But maybe over the course of the series and getting a full view of their backgrounds will make it more believable for me. In any case I enjoyed Second Chance Summer and can’t wait to read about Hudson’s HEA in the next installment, My Kind of Wonderful.
COYER Scavenger Hunt – #43 Read a book that takes place during the summer. 3 points
COYER Red, White & Blue Read-A-Thon – BLUE cover
January 7, 2017
Lily Danville had left Cedar Ridge, Colorado after she lost her sister and father planning never to return. After her job, boyfriend, and life implodes she is back working for her best friend in his salon until she gets back on her feet. Seeing Aidan Kincaid again though was not on the plan, she knows she could have lost her heart to him but something kept her from ever exploring it.
Aidan can't believe Lily is back and he definitely wants to spend time with her, Lily though is pushing him away at every turn. He gets that she is scared but he is determined to break through the wall she is determined to keep in place.
Filled with humor, chemistry, and the feeling of being part of the Kindcaid family this is a terrific story. I loved the warmth you feel with all the characters, each one is so different and you want more. You want to leap to the next book and see what happens next. Lily is a fascinating character, she is a shell of her former self though and Aidan brings the best out of her. Aidan is a bit of a player and struggles with his feelings with Lily, he knows he wants her but how much is what worries him. Highly entertaining.
Aidan can't believe Lily is back and he definitely wants to spend time with her, Lily though is pushing him away at every turn. He gets that she is scared but he is determined to break through the wall she is determined to keep in place.
Filled with humor, chemistry, and the feeling of being part of the Kindcaid family this is a terrific story. I loved the warmth you feel with all the characters, each one is so different and you want more. You want to leap to the next book and see what happens next. Lily is a fascinating character, she is a shell of her former self though and Aidan brings the best out of her. Aidan is a bit of a player and struggles with his feelings with Lily, he knows he wants her but how much is what worries him. Highly entertaining.
January 7, 2016
The first book in Jill Shalvis' Cedar Ridge series. Lily Danville left Cedar Ridge, Colorado, ten years ago when tragedy struck her family. She lost both her sister and then her father within a week. When she left she left Aidan Kincaid behind too. Aidan is now a firefighter and assists in search and rescue, along with helping out at the family resort. The resort that Lily will be working at temporarily until she finds another position far away. Aidan Kincaid is stunned to learn that Lily is back in town. But should he risk his heart knowing she has no intention of staying?
Another series by Jill Shalvis. Yay! I am already loving the folks of Cedar Ridge! Well, most of them anyway. Aidan and Lily were a great couple and I look forward to more.
Another series by Jill Shalvis. Yay! I am already loving the folks of Cedar Ridge! Well, most of them anyway. Aidan and Lily were a great couple and I look forward to more.
July 7, 2015
3 1/2 stars
I loved the Kincaid family dynamics, but the romance between Aidan and Lily left me a bit disappointed. It wasn't bad per se, it was just... meh. I know Ms. Shalvis can do better, that's probably why I was underwhelmed.
I loved the Kincaid family dynamics, but the romance between Aidan and Lily left me a bit disappointed. It wasn't bad per se, it was just... meh. I know Ms. Shalvis can do better, that's probably why I was underwhelmed.
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