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Happily Inc #2
Second Chance Girl
A touching modern fairy tale that won't let go of your heart, from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Fool's Gold romances!
Mathias Mitchell's easy smile hides a world of hurt. After the worst kind of family betrayal, he moves to Happily Inc., California—the wedding destination town supplies a steady stream of bridesmaids, perfect for his "no promises, no pain" lifestyle. Yet he can't stop watching for his beautiful, elusive neighbor on the animal preserve behind their homes.
Gamekeeper Carol Lund knows she's not special enough to attract an alpha male like Mathias, so his offer to help her adopt a herd for her lonely giraffe is surprising—and his determined seduction, even more so. But just as she finally welcomes him into her bed, his careless actions crush her heart. Will she give him a second chance to prove she'll always come first in his heart?
Mathias Mitchell's easy smile hides a world of hurt. After the worst kind of family betrayal, he moves to Happily Inc., California—the wedding destination town supplies a steady stream of bridesmaids, perfect for his "no promises, no pain" lifestyle. Yet he can't stop watching for his beautiful, elusive neighbor on the animal preserve behind their homes.
Gamekeeper Carol Lund knows she's not special enough to attract an alpha male like Mathias, so his offer to help her adopt a herd for her lonely giraffe is surprising—and his determined seduction, even more so. But just as she finally welcomes him into her bed, his careless actions crush her heart. Will she give him a second chance to prove she'll always come first in his heart?
348 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 26, 2017
2252 people are currently reading
4500 people want to read
About the author
Susan Mallery
862 books15.4k followers#1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery writes heartwarming and humorous novels about the relationships that define women's lives—family, friendship, romance. She's best known for putting nuanced characters into emotionally complex, real-life situations with twists that surprise readers to laughter. Because Susan is passionate about animal welfare, pets play a big role in her books. Beloved by millions of readers worldwide, her books have been translated into 28 languages.
Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.
Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.
Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.
Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.
Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.
Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 672 reviews
December 18, 2017
Very disappointed and I was looking forward to this book based on the ratings. It was very bland, the best of the book was Sophie. Lol
September 15, 2017
I had liked the previous book in this series, so I was eager to get to this one...sadly I was disappointed.
My main problem is that I didn't like Carol. Don't get me wrong, she's a smart and wonderful character. I loved her devotion to the animals and Millie in particular. I straight up hated her inner monologue, especially when it came to Mathias. She was constantly thinking she was plain and boring and not special and that got old reaaaaallllly fast. Mathias had promise, but I mostly found him lacking. The passion for his art {which is so apparent} doesn't translate to anything or anyone else.
Plot wise, there is a lot of drama and push and pull. Mathias has to deal with what's going on in his family and chooses to ignore all of it, which obviously doesn't resolve anything. And I just really wish someone would junk punch the dad already.
FYI: this isn't just a story about Carol and Mathias. Carol's sister Violet also has a plot line and with her love interest, there are four POVs in this book. And while I was mostly annoyed with all things Carol, Violet's thread was fun and filled with banter and sweetness and was quite enjoyable. Without Violet's story, I would have rated this 2 stars.
Overall, it there were parts that kept me reading, but I sort of wish I would have skipped it. I'll only be continuing this series if Ronan's book is next.
**Huge thanks to Harlequin Books for providing the arc free of charge**
My main problem is that I didn't like Carol. Don't get me wrong, she's a smart and wonderful character. I loved her devotion to the animals and Millie in particular. I straight up hated her inner monologue, especially when it came to Mathias. She was constantly thinking she was plain and boring and not special and that got old reaaaaallllly fast. Mathias had promise, but I mostly found him lacking. The passion for his art {which is so apparent} doesn't translate to anything or anyone else.
Plot wise, there is a lot of drama and push and pull. Mathias has to deal with what's going on in his family and chooses to ignore all of it, which obviously doesn't resolve anything. And I just really wish someone would junk punch the dad already.
FYI: this isn't just a story about Carol and Mathias. Carol's sister Violet also has a plot line and with her love interest, there are four POVs in this book. And while I was mostly annoyed with all things Carol, Violet's thread was fun and filled with banter and sweetness and was quite enjoyable. Without Violet's story, I would have rated this 2 stars.
Overall, it there were parts that kept me reading, but I sort of wish I would have skipped it. I'll only be continuing this series if Ronan's book is next.
**Huge thanks to Harlequin Books for providing the arc free of charge**
September 30, 2018
In der Wüste Kaliforniens unterhält Carol ein Wildtierreservat. In der Nachbarschaft lebt Mathias, ein Künstler, den sie sehr mag. Manchmal träumt sie von ihm, doch er sieht in Carol nur eine gute Freundin. Als Mathias von seiner Mutter allerdings den temperamentvollen Beagle Sophie für einige Wochen zur Pflege bekommt, benötigt er Carols Hilfe. Im Gegenzug hilft er Carol bei ihrer Spendenaktion für die Giraffendame Millie, für die Carol gerne noch eine kleine Giraffenherde kaufen möchte, damit Millie nicht so alleine ist. Dabei kommen sich Carol und Mathias näher.
Mein Leseeindruck:
Hin und wieder lese ich sehr gerne einen schönen Liebes- oder Unterhaltungsroman, da ich damit gut abschalten und den Alltag eine Weile vergessen kann. Ich mag romantische und auch rührende Geschichten, die wirklich noch ans Herz gehen und in denen sich nicht eine Sexszene an die nächste reiht. Zwar haben wir auch in diesem Buch die ein oder andere erotische Szene, aber es steht doch die Handlung im Vordergrund.
Auch haben wir hier nicht nur die Geschichte von Carol und Mathias, sondern parallel auch die Kennenlerngeschichte von Carols Schwester Violet und Ulrich.
Beide Handlungsstränge haben mir gut gefallen. Es hat Spaß gemacht, die Charaktere eine Weile zu begleiten und zu verfolgen, wie sich die Geschichte entwickelt.
Viel Tiefgang darf man hier sicherlich nicht erwarten, aber ich denke, das ist bei diesem Genre auch vollkommen okay und von Anfang an klar.
Auch kann man diesen zweiten Band meiner Meinung nach problemlos als Einzelband lesen. Ich kannte den ersten Band nicht und konnte trotzdem gut in die Handlung hineinfinden.
Wer eine leichte und lockere Geschichte sucht, der ist mit „Die Liebe trägt Giraffenpulli“ sicherlich gut beraten.
Mein Leseeindruck:
Hin und wieder lese ich sehr gerne einen schönen Liebes- oder Unterhaltungsroman, da ich damit gut abschalten und den Alltag eine Weile vergessen kann. Ich mag romantische und auch rührende Geschichten, die wirklich noch ans Herz gehen und in denen sich nicht eine Sexszene an die nächste reiht. Zwar haben wir auch in diesem Buch die ein oder andere erotische Szene, aber es steht doch die Handlung im Vordergrund.
Auch haben wir hier nicht nur die Geschichte von Carol und Mathias, sondern parallel auch die Kennenlerngeschichte von Carols Schwester Violet und Ulrich.
Beide Handlungsstränge haben mir gut gefallen. Es hat Spaß gemacht, die Charaktere eine Weile zu begleiten und zu verfolgen, wie sich die Geschichte entwickelt.
Viel Tiefgang darf man hier sicherlich nicht erwarten, aber ich denke, das ist bei diesem Genre auch vollkommen okay und von Anfang an klar.
Auch kann man diesen zweiten Band meiner Meinung nach problemlos als Einzelband lesen. Ich kannte den ersten Band nicht und konnte trotzdem gut in die Handlung hineinfinden.
Wer eine leichte und lockere Geschichte sucht, der ist mit „Die Liebe trägt Giraffenpulli“ sicherlich gut beraten.
October 6, 2017
I really wanted to love Second Chance Girl. It has so many features that should’ve made it a hit for me: cute animals, small town, quirky characters, yet this fell short for me. The characters were very one-dimensional, making it hard for me to feel any connection to them or their stories.
Part of the story was Sophie, a cute and mischievous beagle, foisted on Mathias by his mother even though he strongly objected at first. Mathias grew to like her, but the connection seemed tepid at best. I was hoping for emotional bonds that seeped into his human relationships. Instead Mathias stays with his mantra of “people who were supposed to love you betrayed you”.
Mathias’ relationship with his brother Ronan is strained, and there was really no movement with that. Hi relationship with his parents was bad from the beginning and no change through the story. His father was a narcissistic jackass, bullying his sons. Trying to undermine their confidence for his own ego. His mother wasn’t any better. Yeah, she was nice on the surface, but a classic enabler. I lost complete respect when she defended her husband’s obviously horrid behavior toward their boys. So, Mathias’ relationship with them was a frustrating addition to the story.
The romance between Mathias and Carol was underwhelming. I didn’t feel their connection, no sparks, no sexual tension or build-up, IMO. I wasn’t sure what it was about Carol that was supposed to change Mathias from a bridesmaid-hopping-manwhore into a committed in-love guy. She was nice and all that, but I wasn’t moved by their “passion”. Also, I detest relationship drama late in the story, at 87% it doesn’t give you much time to enjoy the couple sorted and happy. It also doesn’t give much time to forgive the characters for their stupidity. Mathias needed to grovel, and yet Carol was the one stepping up to mend their fracture. That does not inspire swooning.
I was excited by Violet’s, Carol’s sister, romance with an English Duke. It started out promising, but fizzled out quickly. Still, I liked their romance better than Carol and Mathias’.
I see a lot of love for Susan Mallery’s stories, so I want to believe that Second Chance Girl wasn’t her best writing. I haven't given up on her writing yet, but, this was just okay to me.
A copy was kindly provided by Harlequin via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
Part of the story was Sophie, a cute and mischievous beagle, foisted on Mathias by his mother even though he strongly objected at first. Mathias grew to like her, but the connection seemed tepid at best. I was hoping for emotional bonds that seeped into his human relationships. Instead Mathias stays with his mantra of “people who were supposed to love you betrayed you”.
Mathias’ relationship with his brother Ronan is strained, and there was really no movement with that. Hi relationship with his parents was bad from the beginning and no change through the story. His father was a narcissistic jackass, bullying his sons. Trying to undermine their confidence for his own ego. His mother wasn’t any better. Yeah, she was nice on the surface, but a classic enabler. I lost complete respect when she defended her husband’s obviously horrid behavior toward their boys. So, Mathias’ relationship with them was a frustrating addition to the story.
The romance between Mathias and Carol was underwhelming. I didn’t feel their connection, no sparks, no sexual tension or build-up, IMO. I wasn’t sure what it was about Carol that was supposed to change Mathias from a bridesmaid-hopping-manwhore into a committed in-love guy. She was nice and all that, but I wasn’t moved by their “passion”. Also, I detest relationship drama late in the story, at 87% it doesn’t give you much time to enjoy the couple sorted and happy. It also doesn’t give much time to forgive the characters for their stupidity. Mathias needed to grovel, and yet Carol was the one stepping up to mend their fracture. That does not inspire swooning.
I was excited by Violet’s, Carol’s sister, romance with an English Duke. It started out promising, but fizzled out quickly. Still, I liked their romance better than Carol and Mathias’.
I see a lot of love for Susan Mallery’s stories, so I want to believe that Second Chance Girl wasn’t her best writing. I haven't given up on her writing yet, but, this was just okay to me.
A copy was kindly provided by Harlequin via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
September 20, 2017
I am thoroughly enthralled with Happily, Inc. I am loving each of these stories and can’t wait for the next one to come out. Susan Mallory really knows how to write a romance, how to bring two people together who truly belong there and how to give us, not one but two, happily-ever-after’s and what a pleasant surprise that was.
Mathias intrigued me in You Say It First and he really showed himself in Second Chance Girl. We now really understand his reasons for “no promise, no pain” outlook on life. He was betrayed by those that have been closest to him … his father, his “twin”, his mother. How can he ever look to have a successful relationship when everyone around him does nothing but let him down? He can’t take the chance on the one woman who totally intrigues him, shows him what friendship is about. Seeing her with Millie gets him every time. He has come to depend on her in ways that he never thought possible. He also cannot stop thinking or dreaming about her. She needs help and he knows that he’s the one to help her. Now, to get into her bed.
Carol knows that she’s nothing special. She’s the Gamekeeper, loves her animals and is infatuated with Mathias. She knows she has nothing to give him and is totally bewildered as to why he is trying so hard to help her get a herd for Millie. She doesn’t know that he watches her every morning or that he’s been working on a piece that shows his love for her and her love for Millie. As she is drawn into his world, she has no choice but to face her true feelings for him and understand why he feels like he does. But, one look at the masterpiece that he created and she knows what she has to do.
And, as while all of this is happening, we get drawn into the secondary story of Ulrich and Violet and the across-the-pond love story. An uncalled-for accusation, a wandering giraffe, a stay at the Sweet Dreams Inn and true love is born. You can also say that Violet and Ulrich were given a second chance at love as well.
From Weddings Out of the Box, to buttons and giraffes … from beautiful hand-blown glass creations, to woodworking and origami, Happily, Inc. has it all. This may all sound a little sappy but, the way the stories are written, it isn’t. It’s romance at its best and Susan Mallory knows just how to bring out the best and worst in each of her characters. She writes woman who are strong on the outside but vulnerable on the inside. Male characters who have every reason to hate the cards dealt to them but learn how to go on with or without those they love the most. She’s not afraid to write men who are susceptible to hurt and show it.
May 30, 2022
Mathias is an artist who works with glass. He makes beautiful dishes, but used to make art. Something happened in his past that had him moving to Happily Inc. as well as to stop making 'real' art. We do find out in this story and it is heartbreaking. He is a bit of a playboy, with his love 'em and leave 'em attitude with the many bridesmaids he hooks up with in the wedding destination town. But what is going on in his heart and mind with Carol? She is his neighbour and runs the Wild Animal Preserve on her father's and uncle's property. Mathias finds himself watching her, especially as she interacts with Millie, her giraffe. He's been sketching pictures of them together. What he doesn't know is that she is also interested in him. Carol's sister, known as "the button lady" is also having a romance, with a Duke who came to accuse her of scamming his grandmother. Once they clear up that misunderstanding, their whirlwind romance begins. Will both sisters find their happily ever after?
I love my visits to Happily Inc. Susan Mallery has created a town and characters that are fun, loving, relatable and ones I would love to meet. This series is a spin-off of Fool's Gold, but I didn't read that series and have no problems following this series. Apparently, Mathias's family is introduced in FG and he and his two artist brothers moved to Happily Inc to get away from their dad. Theirs is a very dysfunctional family, their father a narcissist who I love to hate. These romances may be a bit predictable, but I still love them. The charity auction in this book to raise money for the Animal Preserve, added another dimension to the story. I learned a bit about giraffes, as well as wild animal rescue. The story looked at how families can cause lasting damage to children, self-esteem, various art mediums, friendship and of course romance. I have been reading the earlier books in the series that I missed and am enjoying catching up with the characters.
I love my visits to Happily Inc. Susan Mallery has created a town and characters that are fun, loving, relatable and ones I would love to meet. This series is a spin-off of Fool's Gold, but I didn't read that series and have no problems following this series. Apparently, Mathias's family is introduced in FG and he and his two artist brothers moved to Happily Inc to get away from their dad. Theirs is a very dysfunctional family, their father a narcissist who I love to hate. These romances may be a bit predictable, but I still love them. The charity auction in this book to raise money for the Animal Preserve, added another dimension to the story. I learned a bit about giraffes, as well as wild animal rescue. The story looked at how families can cause lasting damage to children, self-esteem, various art mediums, friendship and of course romance. I have been reading the earlier books in the series that I missed and am enjoying catching up with the characters.
September 24, 2017
Step aside Fool's Gold - here comes Happily Inc!!
This new sweet romance series is a bit of a Fool's Gold spin-off.
We already met Mathias's family in FG - he and his two artist brothers moved to Happily Inc to get away from their dad.
Mathias used to love making art with glass. Now he's halfway happy making beautiful plates and bowls. He stopped with the 'real' art a long time ago.
But he's been inspired to start again. He's been drawing picture after picture of his pretty neighbor Carol and her giraffe Millie.
Carol took over the Wild Animal Preserve on her father's huge landfill property.
And she's been crushing on Mathias ever since he came to town. But he's only interested in the sexiest of bridesmaids who flock to this wedding town every weekend.
What she doesn't know is that he is definitely very interested in her.
And we also have a little second love story going on in town.
Carol's sister - the Buttons Lady - and a Duke from England!!! Also very adorable!
What will happen with our two couples??
Will there 2 HEAs in Happily Inc this time??
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
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Adorable!
This was such a sweet romance. Exactly what we're used to from Susan.
Plus it has lots of adorable animals and buttons and British Dukes and art and so much more! Soo funny and cute!
Of course it's not all insta-happy-endy. Mathias has those love problems. As in - he will never fall in love, because ever since his twin brother turned out to NOT be his twin brother after all, he swore to himself to never again be vulnerable like that...
And Carol - she thinks she's not pretty enough. Not sexy enough. Interesting enough.
But she SO is for Mathias - but it'll take a while for those two to get their stuff sorted!!!
And Violet and Ulrich are just as adorable. But he has to go back to his estate and duke-stuff in England. Will Violet come with him?
Two great romances in one book! I loved it. I would've preferred 2 books for those 2 couples, but I still loved reading it!
I enjoyed every second of it! Millie the giraffe and Sophie the beagle totally stole the show!! ☺
Can't wait to read the next Happily Inc book!
SECOND CHANCE GIRL was such an adorable and funny and romantic love story! 2 Love Stories, really. Run to your nearest amazon for your own Mathias & Ulrich - these are MINE! ☺
♡
♡
♡
♡
September 24, 2017
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I'm just loving this new series by Mallery. I've been enjoying the Mitchell brothers and their mess of a family life. You've got to be a very brave girlfriend to join this crew.
For this second book we are dealing with Mathias Mitchell. I really liked him in the prior book and my feeling didn't change with his book. I was a little shocked but not really when Mathias confessed to us readers (in his thoughts) why he was gun shy about relationships. On the other hand I got it.
I think that Carol is the perfect person for him. He needs someone that won't take his shit and will call him on it. But she also makes him want more out of life then what he has now. You can't help but be glad about that.
You'll find this one just as fast paced and funny as the last one. You are also really starting to get into the characters and learn about them. I also was please with Carol's sister Violet's short, sweet secondary story. Happy but was kind of shocked to have Mallery do that. Either way, I enjoyed it.
Now after enjoying Second Chance Girl I can't wait for Ronan's story. That one has to be a kicker!
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ARC received for a honest review
I'm just loving this new series by Mallery. I've been enjoying the Mitchell brothers and their mess of a family life. You've got to be a very brave girlfriend to join this crew.
For this second book we are dealing with Mathias Mitchell. I really liked him in the prior book and my feeling didn't change with his book. I was a little shocked but not really when Mathias confessed to us readers (in his thoughts) why he was gun shy about relationships. On the other hand I got it.
I think that Carol is the perfect person for him. He needs someone that won't take his shit and will call him on it. But she also makes him want more out of life then what he has now. You can't help but be glad about that.
You'll find this one just as fast paced and funny as the last one. You are also really starting to get into the characters and learn about them. I also was please with Carol's sister Violet's short, sweet secondary story. Happy but was kind of shocked to have Mallery do that. Either way, I enjoyed it.
Now after enjoying Second Chance Girl I can't wait for Ronan's story. That one has to be a kicker!
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for a honest review
January 8, 2019
“I’m calling because my future sister-in-law wants me to help plan her wedding. I don’t know what she’s thinking, but I would be a disaster and I need you to help me.”4 stars [ARC Review]
“Shouldn’t you call Violet? She’s the one with the style sense.”
“I don’t want Violet.”
He spoke without thinking and then was stuck with the truth hanging out there—flapping in the breeze. He wanted Carol, he had for a long time. Things being what they were, he wasn’t going to do anything about the wanting, but helping him with the wedding wasn’t that. It was …
He realized he’d called Carol without a second thought, without considering who would be better. Why was that?
Bottom Line, Up Top An enjoyable read that I highly recommend; is a pretty light and fun romance, with humor and chemistry. Secondary side romance distracted too much for my taste, but the main romance between Carol and Mathias is lovely, develops well, and has fun, sweet, and sexy times (what more can a girl ask for?!). Liked the complexity of the characters, most especially Mathias and all he’s going through with his family, you really feel for him; also appreciated Carol’s inner strength and her courage throughout, for putting herself out there. I look forward to seeing what kind of heroine is able to catch the eye of brooding and solitary Ronan …
Basics. Happily Inc, California desert, modern-day
Heroine: Carol Lund (28), runs the Happily Inc Animal Preserve
Hero: Mathias Mitchell (late-20s/early-30s), glass blower/artist
Period: majority of the story takes place over about a month
Secondary romance: yes (Carol’s sister Violet and Ulrich Sherwood, Duke of Somerbrooke)
Series: Happily Inc, #2; can be read as a stand-alone (linked to Mallery’s Fools Gold series)
Prior to this book, I’d only read two other Susan Mallery books: Falling for Gracie (4 stars; read in 2009 but still remember enjoying it) and Sizzling (3 stars; didn’t love). Was attracted to the plotline here, mostly because of the heroine—I’m very flexible when it comes to heroes, but for my leading ladies, I prefer the unusual, interesting ones to the model-gorgeous, sexy ones (not that those are mutually exclusive, but am painting with a broad brush here).
Carol, Our Heroine. Carol is super likable and one of those sweet, friendly, good-girl types. I liked that she was a bit of a tomboy, which is pretty unusual, and her occupation is definitely unique: she studied zoology in school and now takes care of the animals on the Happily Inc Animal Preserve, which include normally-wild animals like gazelles, zebras, and a giraffe. She is neighbors with Mathias and has had a crush on him for a while, but he’s a one-night-stand kind of guy, so she knows there’s nothing there; surprisingly, he normally goes for hot and sexy bridesmaids (I know, gasp), so she also doesn’t think she’s his type or that he even notices her in that way. She loves living in Happily Inc and what she does.
Mathias, Our Hero. Mathias is a glass artist and works in a studio with two of his four brothers (the other two don’t live in Happily Inc and aren’t glass artists). He’s kind of a love’em and leave’em guy, but not in a bad way; Happily Inc is a wedding destination and the whole town kind of revolves around the wedding industry, so he has some fun with whichever bridesmaid in town grabs his attention, and that’s it—they know the score going in and he’s not looking for anything permanent or more serious. He lives next door to Carol, who lives on the Animal Preserve, and so has a perfect view of it and the animals; there’s some funny back and forth teasing that goes on between the two of them about Carol’s “herd.” He really likes Carol and while she’s not normally his type, he has found himself increasingly attracted to her; she’s the one he turns to automatically for a lot of things and he has also been becoming more and more into her physically, with sexy dreams and all lol. He doesn’t want to jeopardize their friendship though, especially since he knows he’s not looking for anything permanent and she’s definitely the settle-down-with kind of gal.
The Mitchell Family (and Heroes of Happily Inc Series). Now as mentioned before, Mathias is a glass artist, and glass blowing is basically the family business, and his father is a super-famous glass artist—and also one of the biggest asshole fathers you will ever read in a romance!! Okay, HR books have some pretty bad ones where they want to kill their own daughters or bargain them away in a game of cards, but still—Ceallach is a horrid, horrid person and I was uncomfortable and nervous reading any of the scenes he was in. While Mathias’s two other artist brothers create art (Ronan does glass and Nick now mostly works in wood), Mathias only makes functional glass items, like vases, bowls, glassware, lighting, etc. He used to do glass art, and was actually the most talented among the bunch, but his father, being the dickhead that he is, basically shattered Mathias when he was 19; it’s a really sore spot and you really feel for him, it’s just heartbreaking and you want to slap his dad for the things he says and does. Another sore point is that Ronan, Mathias’s fraternal twin, is actually NOT his twin at all, but rather a half-brother from their dad’s long-time mistress (this isn’t a secret, is told at the beginning). Their dad revealed this to them 5 years ago with little fanfare, but it has completely (and unsurprisingly) changed the dynamic within the family. It especially changed things between Ronan and Mathias, with Ronan withdrawing more and more, which has been very challenging and hurtful for Mathias, because he doesn’t know what to do. Ronan is the one who left Fools Gold and moved to Happily Inc, and Mathias and Nick followed him.
What I Liked.
• The relationship between Carol and Mathias is lovely and I loved its development; has funny, sweet, and sexy times—is perfect! Numerous times Carol is the one to show a lot of emotional courage in terms of putting herself out there, and I loved it.
• With these types of setups, authors can easily do the whole things-left-unsaid ploy (over, and over, and OVER again), and while obviously you have a bit of that, it’s not angsty and doesn’t drag on, which I appreciated; yes, they’re both dumbasses at some points, especially Mathias (he’s a bit slappable (sp? lol) at one point, the dunderhead), but nothing too bad.
• AND, actually, for the first time (k, probably not the actual first), the hero had a totally believable reason for being wary of love! That’s such a common ploy used for heroes in all romances, and it makes sense if they’ve been cheated on, but other than that, authors usually rely on the stereotype of men being commitment-phobes. So: hats off to Mallery for making me able to understand and believe Mathias’s trepidation.
• Great supporting characters and side-relationships between the brothers, the lady friends, and the sisters (Carol and Violet).
• Sophie was HYSTERICAL and added some great and funny times—Sophie is Mathias’s mom’s dog and she asks him to dogsit her while she and their dad are traveling. She gets into all sorts of trouble and you gotta love watching Mathias start to develop a big soft spot for her.
What I Did NOT Like.
• I don’t mind secondary romances—it’s kind of a double-edged sword sometimes, because if it’s really good, you wish they had their own book, and if it’s bad, you wish it didn’t exist. In this instance, I didn’t mind it, but it was a waaaaay larger part of the story than is normal; at some times it was almost like two romances going on side-by-side. More attention and page-space is devoted to Carol and Matthias, no doubt, but Violet and Ulrich were too center-stage for me; I kept on feeling like I was being pulled away from what I really wanted to watch (Carol and Mathias) by this side-show movie going on that was distracting everything.
• I don’t understand the title. Maybe I missed something—clearly did—but it was an engaging book, it’s not like my mind was wandering while I was reading it …
Excerpt/Quote.
“Carol?”*This review is of an ARC provided by Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
“This is all your fault!”
Ronan looked at her. “What is?”
“All of it.” All right, maybe her being in love with Mathias wasn’t technically Ronan’s fault, but he’d been the one to make her see it. “I didn’t want to know,” she added, hoping she didn’t sound as desperate as she felt. “This is a disaster. Why would you say that? Why?”
He took a step back and held up both his hands. “I was kidding, trying to be friendly. I thought you and Mathias were just friends and that you’d laugh.”
She glared at him. “This is not a good time to develop a sense of humor!”
“It won’t happen again.”
“It’s too late now. How could you? I don’t want to be in love with him. Do you know what’s going to happen now? Do you?” The last two words came out louder than she’d wanted and Ronan flinched.
“Something that isn’t good and is also my fault?” he ventured.
“You got that right. Now we both have to pretend this never happened. You are not going to say a word, do you hear me?”
“The last person I want to talk to about this is my brother.”
“Not good enough. No. One. Am I clear?”
“Crystal.”
She narrowed her gaze. “You’ve really upset me. I have to deal with this now. The auction is in two days. I don’t have time to worry about being in love with your brother.”
“I’m sorry.”
“That’s not good enough. Make it go away.”
“I can’t. Once you know something, you can’t forget it. Trust me, I know.”
March 24, 2018
I did like this one more than the first in the series. More action and storylines in this one. We get to glimpse into all the brother's lives as well as the other characters. Love the giraffes!
September 23, 2018
Song for summary: Nobody But Me by Michael Bublé
This was a nice, quick read! The characters are kind, funny, and sweet; while the plot is cute and light-hearted. I thought the author did a good job on this sequel, and I look forward to reading the following books in this series!
This was a nice, quick read! The characters are kind, funny, and sweet; while the plot is cute and light-hearted. I thought the author did a good job on this sequel, and I look forward to reading the following books in this series!
September 26, 2017
My Review:
I loved, loved, loved this book. OMG, such an unlikely couple, but they were so awesome together.
Matthias is the resident man-whore. He's all about hooking up with all the bridesmaids in this book. In fact, the first scene where he interacts with Carol in the book he reeks of a bridesmaid's perfume. It's definitely not the typical start to a Susan Mallery book, but dang, it's good. Because from there Matthias and Carol move into friendship that oh so slowly and sweetly evolves into something with a hint at more. This is a slow build story. Matthias is the resident manwhore because he has issues...issues that hurt to read. He's been rejected...and that final rejection from his twin (gah...this whole story line KILLS ME...so, so good), left hard, lasting marks on Matthias's ability to put himself out there. He has no desire to be hurt by someone he loves ever again. So, he does everything he can to avoid love.
On the other hand, there's Carol. She's the game-warden at her father and uncle's wildlife refuge. She works with large animals all day...it's not a glamorous or sexy job, but that's okay, she's never been a glamorous or sexy girl. Sure, she's attracted to Matthias...everyone is...he's gorgeous, but she's realistic about who she is and who Matthias is and who they are to one another. There's no way it will ever be anything, so it's fun to fantasize.
At the heart of this story though is Millie, the lonely giraffe, who needs a herd. Because even giraffes need love in their lives. Carol's goal is to raise enough money to be able to buy and care for several more giraffes so Millie won't be sad. And that's where the art comes in...Matthias's art, his former twin brother Ronan's art, their father's art (ugh...I really can't deal with this character and I know that we're supposed to hate him, but omg, please let his wife or someone put him in his place...maybe Ronan's book...there better be a book coming for Ronan, PLEASE!). But anyway everyone brings art to be auctioned to raise money for Millie's herd.
My favorite part of this book though was Matthias's art and the evolution of his creating his sculpture for Carol. For so long Matthias has denied that part of himself, because of his horrific father's narcissism and flat-out abuse that destroyed art for Matthias. I loved that he found that again. So many of those scenes where he was sketching and working to create the perfect Carol and Millie spoke to me...so much love shown just through that alone. I loved it.
This was a fabulously fun, emotional book. There's also a really interesting subplot and romance for Violet, Carol's button selling sister and an English duke. Really all good fun!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I loved, loved, loved this book. OMG, such an unlikely couple, but they were so awesome together.
Matthias is the resident man-whore. He's all about hooking up with all the bridesmaids in this book. In fact, the first scene where he interacts with Carol in the book he reeks of a bridesmaid's perfume. It's definitely not the typical start to a Susan Mallery book, but dang, it's good. Because from there Matthias and Carol move into friendship that oh so slowly and sweetly evolves into something with a hint at more. This is a slow build story. Matthias is the resident manwhore because he has issues...issues that hurt to read. He's been rejected...and that final rejection from his twin (gah...this whole story line KILLS ME...so, so good), left hard, lasting marks on Matthias's ability to put himself out there. He has no desire to be hurt by someone he loves ever again. So, he does everything he can to avoid love.
On the other hand, there's Carol. She's the game-warden at her father and uncle's wildlife refuge. She works with large animals all day...it's not a glamorous or sexy job, but that's okay, she's never been a glamorous or sexy girl. Sure, she's attracted to Matthias...everyone is...he's gorgeous, but she's realistic about who she is and who Matthias is and who they are to one another. There's no way it will ever be anything, so it's fun to fantasize.
At the heart of this story though is Millie, the lonely giraffe, who needs a herd. Because even giraffes need love in their lives. Carol's goal is to raise enough money to be able to buy and care for several more giraffes so Millie won't be sad. And that's where the art comes in...Matthias's art, his former twin brother Ronan's art, their father's art (ugh...I really can't deal with this character and I know that we're supposed to hate him, but omg, please let his wife or someone put him in his place...maybe Ronan's book...there better be a book coming for Ronan, PLEASE!). But anyway everyone brings art to be auctioned to raise money for Millie's herd.
My favorite part of this book though was Matthias's art and the evolution of his creating his sculpture for Carol. For so long Matthias has denied that part of himself, because of his horrific father's narcissism and flat-out abuse that destroyed art for Matthias. I loved that he found that again. So many of those scenes where he was sketching and working to create the perfect Carol and Millie spoke to me...so much love shown just through that alone. I loved it.
This was a fabulously fun, emotional book. There's also a really interesting subplot and romance for Violet, Carol's button selling sister and an English duke. Really all good fun!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
October 4, 2017
I loved Second Chance Girl! Having just read and reviewed You Say It First (you can read that review here), Susan Mallery’s first offering in the Happily Inc. series I already knew a little about Carol and Mathias coming into Second Chance Girl. I was intrigued by the stoic Carol and the charming Mathias. Susan Mallery didn’t let me down in telling their story.
Mathias is a laid back charmer who typically beds bridesmaids because they’ll be leaving town with little risk of emotional investment, which is important because the people in his life have a history of tromping on his heart and trust. Carol is his friend and neighbor, someone he feels comfortable with. Although he’s attracted, he doesn’t want to change their relationship.
read more: https://saschadarlington.me/2017/10/0...
Mathias is a laid back charmer who typically beds bridesmaids because they’ll be leaving town with little risk of emotional investment, which is important because the people in his life have a history of tromping on his heart and trust. Carol is his friend and neighbor, someone he feels comfortable with. Although he’s attracted, he doesn’t want to change their relationship.
read more: https://saschadarlington.me/2017/10/0...
July 14, 2020
Continuing with the Happily Inc. series by Susan Mallery so that I could enjoy another day away from our current reality. This one is Mathias and Carol story as they work together to bring a herd of giraffes to Carol's animal park and maybe find love along the way.
September 20, 2017
This is the second book in this series. Thus far, this is my favorite book. While, the firsts book was a nice introduction to this series and the town of Happy Inc, California, this book just connected with me more; especially with the characters and the storyline.
Mathias was a sweetheart, even if he did kind of blow it with Carol by falling asleep on her right before the "big" moment. Oops. Carol had a big heart as well. Yet, I really wanted her to get over her self doubt thinking she was not good enough for Mathias. He showed interest in her but yet she did not believe it. It took them almost the whole story to finally realize just how much they were right for each other. There were a few other four legged stars in this book. Their names are Millie, the giraffe and Sophie, the beagle. Plus, I can't forget to mention another couple that I liked from this book and that is Violet and Ulrich. I hope to see them featured again in this series. Take a chance on this book. You won't be sorry.
Mathias was a sweetheart, even if he did kind of blow it with Carol by falling asleep on her right before the "big" moment. Oops. Carol had a big heart as well. Yet, I really wanted her to get over her self doubt thinking she was not good enough for Mathias. He showed interest in her but yet she did not believe it. It took them almost the whole story to finally realize just how much they were right for each other. There were a few other four legged stars in this book. Their names are Millie, the giraffe and Sophie, the beagle. Plus, I can't forget to mention another couple that I liked from this book and that is Violet and Ulrich. I hope to see them featured again in this series. Take a chance on this book. You won't be sorry.
November 5, 2025
It's official, Susan Mallery has sucked me in once again with her world, Happily Inc. I never thought the woman could top her imaginative world of Fool's Gold but I think she's come darn close. AND, I think as she grows the world of Happily Inc, it will give Fool's Gold a run for its money! SO far, both stories in this series have been soooooo heartwarming and fun to read. THIS particular book had two HEA and I couldn't be more pleased with both! And if THAT doesn't suck you in .... you guuuuuuuuuuuuuuys, #TeamMillie <3
I can't say this enough, Susan Mallery writes excellent feel good!!!
She will make you laugh and smile and maybe shed a tear or two and her imagination holds no bounds. Her stories are captivating and just plain fun to read!
Copy provided for blog tour review
I can't say this enough, Susan Mallery writes excellent feel good!!!
She will make you laugh and smile and maybe shed a tear or two and her imagination holds no bounds. Her stories are captivating and just plain fun to read!
Copy provided for blog tour review
October 18, 2024
Wow! Why, why, why have I taken so long to read this series??? Fool's Gold has been my favorite series by Susan Mallery but it's very possible that Happily Inc. will become a close second.
This series, or at least the first three books, follows the further stories of three of the Mitchell boys from Fool's Gold. The first one focused on Nick, this one on Mathias, and Book 3 on Ronan.
I really enjoyed this book and the two womderful love stories. There's snarky dialogue, steamy love scenes, family drama, wonderful supportimg characters and, as an added bonus, some cameos by Fool's Gold characters.
I loved Book 1 so much, I bought the whole series!
This series, or at least the first three books, follows the further stories of three of the Mitchell boys from Fool's Gold. The first one focused on Nick, this one on Mathias, and Book 3 on Ronan.
I really enjoyed this book and the two womderful love stories. There's snarky dialogue, steamy love scenes, family drama, wonderful supportimg characters and, as an added bonus, some cameos by Fool's Gold characters.
I loved Book 1 so much, I bought the whole series!
October 19, 2017
This one was a bit better than #1. There's a giraffe. You can't go wrong with a giraffe.
August 3, 2019
A sweet dual romance that follows all of the rules of romance writing.
Interesting plot points, character growth (although the characters are somewhat annoying) the requisite sexual longings culminating into the ultimate climax and the inevitable HEA.
Interesting plot points, character growth (although the characters are somewhat annoying) the requisite sexual longings culminating into the ultimate climax and the inevitable HEA.
October 20, 2017
Can we just get Roman's book and make me happy? I was hoping to have his relationship with the rest of the family mended by the end of this book, but as it turns out his lady is going to be the one who will show him how much they love him and that he is a blind idiot. I didn't like having a sad Mathias because of it. I hope the next book will be released soon because I like Happily Inc. and the people who live in this town. Silver has to find her happily ever after too. I don't know who is going to be her man (Drew maybe?), but she is a good character and I would like to see her more.
Besides Mathias and Carol, another couple gets their happily ever after in this book as a secondary plot. Violet, Carol's sister, and Ulrich, an Englishman with a title, who came to Happily Inc. to accuse Violet of stealing. Isn't that a great way to begin a love story? Your future husband travels across the ocean to accuse you of something horrible while in your mind you have great memories of him and you dancing. These two could have gotten their own book, but I liked their story as it is. For me, they had a better story than Mathias and Carol.
If I exclude Carol and Mathia's relationship, this book was great, but I thought that a spark was missing between the two main characters. Their chemistry wasn't explosive enough but with everything that went on in this book, it was hard to realize it until the book was finished and I had to recap it in my mind. I had strong feelings for Mathia's parents though. I disliked his mother because she should have stood up for her children, but feel sympathetic towards her because she was lost one of her sons for something that wasn't her fault. We all hate Mathia's father and there is no excuse for him, especially after finding out some stuff he did to Mathias.
Despite the lack of a spark between the two main characters, I liked this book. There are simply too many things going on in this book for one aspect of them to make me see the whole book in a negative light. For romance, I got the button lover Violet and her man, Ulrich.
Besides Mathias and Carol, another couple gets their happily ever after in this book as a secondary plot. Violet, Carol's sister, and Ulrich, an Englishman with a title, who came to Happily Inc. to accuse Violet of stealing. Isn't that a great way to begin a love story? Your future husband travels across the ocean to accuse you of something horrible while in your mind you have great memories of him and you dancing. These two could have gotten their own book, but I liked their story as it is. For me, they had a better story than Mathias and Carol.
If I exclude Carol and Mathia's relationship, this book was great, but I thought that a spark was missing between the two main characters. Their chemistry wasn't explosive enough but with everything that went on in this book, it was hard to realize it until the book was finished and I had to recap it in my mind. I had strong feelings for Mathia's parents though. I disliked his mother because she should have stood up for her children, but feel sympathetic towards her because she was lost one of her sons for something that wasn't her fault. We all hate Mathia's father and there is no excuse for him, especially after finding out some stuff he did to Mathias.
Despite the lack of a spark between the two main characters, I liked this book. There are simply too many things going on in this book for one aspect of them to make me see the whole book in a negative light. For romance, I got the button lover Violet and her man, Ulrich.
December 2, 2021
Zwei Liebesgeschichten, eine Giraffe, ein Beagle und eine Hochzeit
Carol ist verliebt in ihren Nachbarn, den Künstler Mathias, doch leider steht der nur auf unverbindliche Beziehungen. Doch als er den Hund seiner Mutter hüten muss und Carol Geld sammelt, um der Giraffe im Reservat eine Herde zu kaufen, bekommen die beiden mehr miteinander zutun.
Auch Carols Schwester Violet hat eine Liebesgeschichte in diesem Buch. Zu ihr kommt nämlich ein adliger Engländer in den Laden und beschuldigt sie, dass sie seine Großmütter betrügen würde. Natürlich ist er im Unrecht und so muss er sich bei ihr entschuldigen. Als er dann einen Autounfall hat und erst einmal im Ort festsitzt, ist es an Violet ihn zu pflegen.
Setting ist Happily Inc eine kleine Stadt in der Wüste Kaliforniens. In diesem Buch ist man im Wildtierreservat, passt auf einen Beagle auf, begibt sich in Atteliers, ist bei einer Kunstausstellung und bei einer Hochzeit. Außerdem darf man die Giraffe Millie bewundern.
Dieser Band hat mir wesentlich besser gefallen als der erste Teil der Reihe. Ich fand ihn schlicht interessanter und so freue ich mich jetzt auf Band 3, wenn es um den zurückgezogenen Ronan geht.
Carol ist verliebt in ihren Nachbarn, den Künstler Mathias, doch leider steht der nur auf unverbindliche Beziehungen. Doch als er den Hund seiner Mutter hüten muss und Carol Geld sammelt, um der Giraffe im Reservat eine Herde zu kaufen, bekommen die beiden mehr miteinander zutun.
Auch Carols Schwester Violet hat eine Liebesgeschichte in diesem Buch. Zu ihr kommt nämlich ein adliger Engländer in den Laden und beschuldigt sie, dass sie seine Großmütter betrügen würde. Natürlich ist er im Unrecht und so muss er sich bei ihr entschuldigen. Als er dann einen Autounfall hat und erst einmal im Ort festsitzt, ist es an Violet ihn zu pflegen.
Setting ist Happily Inc eine kleine Stadt in der Wüste Kaliforniens. In diesem Buch ist man im Wildtierreservat, passt auf einen Beagle auf, begibt sich in Atteliers, ist bei einer Kunstausstellung und bei einer Hochzeit. Außerdem darf man die Giraffe Millie bewundern.
Dieser Band hat mir wesentlich besser gefallen als der erste Teil der Reihe. Ich fand ihn schlicht interessanter und so freue ich mich jetzt auf Band 3, wenn es um den zurückgezogenen Ronan geht.
September 28, 2017
I have been a fan and buyer of Susan Mallery's books for many years. I'be enjoyed her earlier works...the Bakery Sisters, Buchanans, Blackberry Island, and Fools Gold. Her newest series...Happily, Inc. not.so.much. I started with this second book in the series and it's just not for me....the whole concept of Happily, Inc and the zoo animals just seem so over-the-top. It's bordering on silly fantasy for me. The characters of Carol and Mathias seem so one dimensional / cardboard cut-outs placed in front of a movie façade sort of "town."
I'm glad I didn't buy this one, but got it on a digital loan. I won't be bothering with the rest of this series. Susan Mallery has gone from an "auto-buy" to a "never buy."
I'm glad I didn't buy this one, but got it on a digital loan. I won't be bothering with the rest of this series. Susan Mallery has gone from an "auto-buy" to a "never buy."
September 27, 2017
Second Chance Girl is a sweet, small town romance that never quite picked up for me. Despite the witty and snappy dialogue, the book fell flat, the characters mostly one-dimensional, and the promise of a town designed just for weddings never fulfilled. It wasn’t a difficult read, the story is fairly light, the pace quick, and I never felt the need to skip ahead, but I constantly found myself hoping for something more.
There were parts that I loved. Second Chance Girl is actually a two for the price of one love story, featuring the Lund sisters as the book’s heroines. Violet’s romance with Ulrich, an English Duke, had some spark. I enjoyed their “meet-cute” and the romance that followed. They’re a well-matched couple. The animals of the little desert town of Happily Inc. really stole the show, with giraffe Millie stealing my heart. Her new-found friend, Sophie the Beagle, was just as cute, bringing a smile to my face with every scene she was in. I was intrigued by the Mitchell family drama (which started books ago in the Fool’s Gold series). Mathias’s “twin”, Ronan, definitely had me yearning for his story as he’s just the type of book hero I like, all broody and broken.
But, the main story-and main couple-just didn’t work for me. While I liked Carol, she was just a bit boring. I would’ve loved to know more about her work on the animal preserve she runs. The character would have come to life if just a bit of her passion for working with the animals had shined through. Even though most of the story revolves around raising money for a herd of giraffes to keep Millie company, it’s Mathias, not Carol that figures out a way to make that happen. Without his idea, Carol would have been content to depend on the donation cans she’d left all over town.
Mathias is not the alpha promised in the book blurb. I liked him-as part of the Mitchell family and all that he and his brothers had to endure. That story-the narcissistic father, neglectful mother, secrets that tear a family apart-that was worth reading about. Mathias as a romance book hero? Not so much. Yes, he’s emotionally stunted due to his family issues and justifiably so. But… he just came across as sort of a wuss. He’s sweet and funny, but won’t confront the people in his life that he needs to, he has let his talent go to waste because of his father, and (spoiler) he lets Carol be the one who lays down the law to fix their relationship. Which is fine, but not an alpha move.
3 stars for Second Chance Girl. Heat level: 3
I received this book in exchange for honest feedback.
There were parts that I loved. Second Chance Girl is actually a two for the price of one love story, featuring the Lund sisters as the book’s heroines. Violet’s romance with Ulrich, an English Duke, had some spark. I enjoyed their “meet-cute” and the romance that followed. They’re a well-matched couple. The animals of the little desert town of Happily Inc. really stole the show, with giraffe Millie stealing my heart. Her new-found friend, Sophie the Beagle, was just as cute, bringing a smile to my face with every scene she was in. I was intrigued by the Mitchell family drama (which started books ago in the Fool’s Gold series). Mathias’s “twin”, Ronan, definitely had me yearning for his story as he’s just the type of book hero I like, all broody and broken.
But, the main story-and main couple-just didn’t work for me. While I liked Carol, she was just a bit boring. I would’ve loved to know more about her work on the animal preserve she runs. The character would have come to life if just a bit of her passion for working with the animals had shined through. Even though most of the story revolves around raising money for a herd of giraffes to keep Millie company, it’s Mathias, not Carol that figures out a way to make that happen. Without his idea, Carol would have been content to depend on the donation cans she’d left all over town.
Mathias is not the alpha promised in the book blurb. I liked him-as part of the Mitchell family and all that he and his brothers had to endure. That story-the narcissistic father, neglectful mother, secrets that tear a family apart-that was worth reading about. Mathias as a romance book hero? Not so much. Yes, he’s emotionally stunted due to his family issues and justifiably so. But… he just came across as sort of a wuss. He’s sweet and funny, but won’t confront the people in his life that he needs to, he has let his talent go to waste because of his father, and (spoiler) he lets Carol be the one who lays down the law to fix their relationship. Which is fine, but not an alpha move.
3 stars for Second Chance Girl. Heat level: 3
I received this book in exchange for honest feedback.
September 20, 2017
I love Susan Mallery’s writing style. She has just the right amount of attraction to make the romance believable and had me turning the pages hoping these two couples would figure out how much they belonged together.
Carol holds a special place in my heart; she thinks she’s far too plain and practical to attract the likes of Mathias Mitchell, playboy extraordinaire. Little does she realize he has issues of his own. Their love story will soften even the hardest heart!
When Millie, the giraffe, causes an accident with British nobleman, Ulrich Sherwood, he ends up stranded in Happily Inc. under the care of the woman he’d accused of stealing from his family.
Violet should have apologized for her sister’s giraffe and left the injured Duke to manage on his own, but something about his distinguished good looks and that sexy accent drew her to offer her services. Will these two find a way to overcome their differences, or will their hearts be broken?
This is one of those feel-good stories that will leave you smiling long after the last page is turned.
I give Second Chance Girl 5 lovely kisses- highly recommended reading!
First posted on It's All About the Romance
Carol holds a special place in my heart; she thinks she’s far too plain and practical to attract the likes of Mathias Mitchell, playboy extraordinaire. Little does she realize he has issues of his own. Their love story will soften even the hardest heart!
When Millie, the giraffe, causes an accident with British nobleman, Ulrich Sherwood, he ends up stranded in Happily Inc. under the care of the woman he’d accused of stealing from his family.
Violet should have apologized for her sister’s giraffe and left the injured Duke to manage on his own, but something about his distinguished good looks and that sexy accent drew her to offer her services. Will these two find a way to overcome their differences, or will their hearts be broken?
This is one of those feel-good stories that will leave you smiling long after the last page is turned.
I give Second Chance Girl 5 lovely kisses- highly recommended reading!
First posted on It's All About the Romance
October 25, 2018
2.5 stars!
So Susan Mallery's books normally get around 3-3,5 stars from me, and I always go into these books expecting only some happy times and a great romantic story. I know they aren't going to shatter my mind and I'm okay with that.
But this didn't hold up to that standard for me.
It didn't really have the build-up of a relationship that one finds in most of her other books, it didn't have the kind of sensible problems that the others have too.
I think the idea of two sisters finding love in the same books sounds great, but it didn't work great. I though neither Carol nor Violet got the page time they deserved to actually build up a relationship and a love story.
They were both pretty much instant, and it bugged me here.
We get to see the story of the family from Matthias's pov and it does offer some insight to it, it doesn't change anything, though I imagine it would happen in Ronan's book.
We didn't get the usual cute-ness and fun of Susan Mallery's books, nor did we get the depth.I thought with the characters being who they were and everything that could've been done by focusing on only one couple, this could've been much better.
So Susan Mallery's books normally get around 3-3,5 stars from me, and I always go into these books expecting only some happy times and a great romantic story. I know they aren't going to shatter my mind and I'm okay with that.
But this didn't hold up to that standard for me.
It didn't really have the build-up of a relationship that one finds in most of her other books, it didn't have the kind of sensible problems that the others have too.
I think the idea of two sisters finding love in the same books sounds great, but it didn't work great. I though neither Carol nor Violet got the page time they deserved to actually build up a relationship and a love story.
They were both pretty much instant, and it bugged me here.
We get to see the story of the family from Matthias's pov and it does offer some insight to it, it doesn't change anything, though I imagine it would happen in Ronan's book.
We didn't get the usual cute-ness and fun of Susan Mallery's books, nor did we get the depth.I thought with the characters being who they were and everything that could've been done by focusing on only one couple, this could've been much better.
September 23, 2017
Second Chance Girl is the second in Susan Mallery’s new Happily Inc series. I <3 this book so much. It serves as a gentle reminder that we are all the special one. Though the world may try to convince us otherwise, it is our own opinion that truly matters most. Besides, this is the book in which Millie gets her herd. I am waiting for Ronan to figure out that there is more to family than blood; maybe the next book?
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novel.
October 7, 2017
3'5 estrellas.
September 30, 2019
Susan Mallery writes some really fun romance/chick lit books. The women are very real characters. The idea of the town of Happily, Inc, is hilarious. A town like this could only really exist in California.
I also loved the addition of lonely Millie the giraffe and catastrophe on four legs, Sophie the beagle. (Note to self: beagles are too much work.)
The father of the hero is an absolute dick and I hope gets his comeuppance soon. Maybe a bad review?
I also loved the addition of lonely Millie the giraffe and catastrophe on four legs, Sophie the beagle. (Note to self: beagles are too much work.)
The father of the hero is an absolute dick and I hope gets his comeuppance soon. Maybe a bad review?
January 4, 2018
It was an ok book. I prefer other authors more.
September 26, 2017
4.5 stars.
Set in a small town that caters to destination weddings, Second Chance Girl is an endearing addition to Susan Mallery's Happily Inc. series. In this second outing, the Lund sisters, Carol and Violet, embark on romances that have their own set of obstacles to overcome on their way to happily ever after.
Carol is a gamekeeper on the town's animal preserve and although she knows it will not go anywhere, she is crushing on her man-whore neighbor Mathias Mitchell, who favors one-night stands with visiting bridesmaids. She knows she is not beautiful or special enough to attract Mathias so she ignores her attraction when they unexpectedly become friends. When an evening of drinking culminates with a surprising admission from Mathias, Carol is delighted to indulge her fantasies about her sexy neighbor. However, the next day reinforces her insecurities and their once easygoing friendship becomes strained.
After a stunning revelation from his famous and temperamental artist father, Mathias feels doubly betrayed when his brother Ronan retreats both emotionally and physically. Needless to say, Mathias is unwilling to risk another emotional betrayal so he ignores his unanticipated attraction to his quiet and unassuming neighbor. He also plays it safe when it comes to career and he confines his glasswork to creating stunning dishware. However, his creativity is reawakened after Mathias observes Carol's tender interactions with her lonely giraffe, Millie.
Spending quiet evenings with Carol is a balm to Mathias wounded soul but their mutual attraction is becoming impossible to resist. However, when things between them go awry, Carol is afraid to ask too many questions about what went wrong. At the same time, Mathias is garnering his courage to explore his sizzling desire for his lovely neighbor. Just when things are finally heating up between them, Mathias gets another reminder that love equals betrayal and he unequivocally shuts down their budding romance. Will Carol find the confidence and courage she needs to challenge Mathias's assumption that their relationship will eventually result in heartache?
Carol's sister Violet also unexpectedly finds herself in a new relationship when Ulrich Sherwood, the Duke of Sherwood, arrives in town to confront her about her friendship with his grandmother. Although Ulrich has no recollection of having met Violet before, Violet has very fond memories of his kind words helping her feel better about herself when she was going through an ugly duckling stage as a teenager. Circumstances force Ulrich to remain in town and to both of their surprise, romance blooms between them. Is their relationship destined to be more than just a vacation fling?
Second Chance Girl is an enchanting romance between an emotionally damaged yet sexy man and an insecure but adorable woman. This charming couple gradually transitions from friends to lovers but their respective emotional baggage quickly threatens to derail their relationship when an unpleasant family visit brings painful reminders of past betrayals. Despite the all too realistic problems that Carol and Mathias must overcome, this latest installment Susan Mallery's Happily Inc. series is a light-hearted and witty read that old and new fans are sure to love.
Set in a small town that caters to destination weddings, Second Chance Girl is an endearing addition to Susan Mallery's Happily Inc. series. In this second outing, the Lund sisters, Carol and Violet, embark on romances that have their own set of obstacles to overcome on their way to happily ever after.
Carol is a gamekeeper on the town's animal preserve and although she knows it will not go anywhere, she is crushing on her man-whore neighbor Mathias Mitchell, who favors one-night stands with visiting bridesmaids. She knows she is not beautiful or special enough to attract Mathias so she ignores her attraction when they unexpectedly become friends. When an evening of drinking culminates with a surprising admission from Mathias, Carol is delighted to indulge her fantasies about her sexy neighbor. However, the next day reinforces her insecurities and their once easygoing friendship becomes strained.
After a stunning revelation from his famous and temperamental artist father, Mathias feels doubly betrayed when his brother Ronan retreats both emotionally and physically. Needless to say, Mathias is unwilling to risk another emotional betrayal so he ignores his unanticipated attraction to his quiet and unassuming neighbor. He also plays it safe when it comes to career and he confines his glasswork to creating stunning dishware. However, his creativity is reawakened after Mathias observes Carol's tender interactions with her lonely giraffe, Millie.
Spending quiet evenings with Carol is a balm to Mathias wounded soul but their mutual attraction is becoming impossible to resist. However, when things between them go awry, Carol is afraid to ask too many questions about what went wrong. At the same time, Mathias is garnering his courage to explore his sizzling desire for his lovely neighbor. Just when things are finally heating up between them, Mathias gets another reminder that love equals betrayal and he unequivocally shuts down their budding romance. Will Carol find the confidence and courage she needs to challenge Mathias's assumption that their relationship will eventually result in heartache?
Carol's sister Violet also unexpectedly finds herself in a new relationship when Ulrich Sherwood, the Duke of Sherwood, arrives in town to confront her about her friendship with his grandmother. Although Ulrich has no recollection of having met Violet before, Violet has very fond memories of his kind words helping her feel better about herself when she was going through an ugly duckling stage as a teenager. Circumstances force Ulrich to remain in town and to both of their surprise, romance blooms between them. Is their relationship destined to be more than just a vacation fling?
Second Chance Girl is an enchanting romance between an emotionally damaged yet sexy man and an insecure but adorable woman. This charming couple gradually transitions from friends to lovers but their respective emotional baggage quickly threatens to derail their relationship when an unpleasant family visit brings painful reminders of past betrayals. Despite the all too realistic problems that Carol and Mathias must overcome, this latest installment Susan Mallery's Happily Inc. series is a light-hearted and witty read that old and new fans are sure to love.
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