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Order of Magic #1

Second Chance Magic

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Secrets broke her heart... and have now come back from the grave to haunt her.

So far, Lorna Addams’s forties are not what she expected. After a very public embarrassment, she finds it difficult to trust her judgment when it comes to new friendships and dating. She might be willing to give love a second chance when she meets the attractive William Warrick, if only she could come to terms with what her husband did to her and leave it in the past.

How is a humiliated empty nest widow supposed to move on with her life? It’s not like she can develop a sixth sense, séance her ex back, force him to tell her why and give her closure. Or can she?

Book contains: kick-butt women who are considered middle-aged in their forties but who don't let themselves be defined by a number, paranormal elements (psychics, ghosts, magic, etc), some strong language (nothing too earth-shattering), sexy scenes but they aren’t 50 shades of OMG or anything, and a nice heaping helping of a second chance at first love. Doing midlife right!

300 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 18, 2020

531 people are currently reading
1185 people want to read

About the author

Michelle M. Pillow

634 books3,505 followers
📚 New York Times & USA Today Bestselling Author of All Things Romance
🌎 www.MichellePillow.com

Michelle M. Pillow is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author with millions of books sold worldwide. Best known for her paranormal and sci-fi romance and paranormal women’s fiction, she writes captivating stories that blend heart, humor, adventure, and a touch of magic—perfect for readers who love immersive worlds and unforgettable characters.

Her bestselling series include Dragon Lords, Lords of the Var®, Warlocks MacGregor®, Order of Magic, and Merely Mortal.

📖 Printable Booklist: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/42pg25jekx

A relentless explorer of both the real and the supernatural, Michelle has chased history through ancient ruins, climbed Mayan temples in Belize, and investigated haunted locations. She believes life is an adventure best fueled by curiosity, creativity, and copious amounts of coffee.

Now based in the American South, Michelle is involved in film and documentary projects with her talented husband. She is mom to a talented artist, and under the strict supervision of her furry overlords (a dog and a cat) who ensure she meets her deadlines. Most days, she can be found in her office wearing pajama pants, writing, plotting, and occasionally dancing to get the creative juices flowing.

She’s the award-winning author of the historical Maiden and the Monster and paranormal romance Love Potions. If you love dragon shifters, mischievous warlocks, and strong heroines who take charge of their destiny, her books are a perfect fit.

📬 Stay Updated! Sign up for exclusive news, sneak peeks, and giveaways:
https://michellepillow.com/newsletter...

💬 Connect with Michelle:
📖 Facebook: AuthorMichellePillow
🌎 Website: www.MichellePillow.com

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5 stars
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276 (16%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews
Profile Image for Kelly.
5,619 reviews225 followers
March 16, 2020
Lorna's situation is...rough. Like, she was lied to in the worst, most public way imaginable and she's sort of blamed (the idea that she "didn't know" or "hadn't suspected" her husband's lies is sort of thrown at her and WOW that sucks) for not seeing those lies, yet she loved this man and because of his betrayal and lies can't grieve the way one would if their spouse had died.

Rough. Super rough.

Good thing she's moved into a town and is finding a group of friends who can help her move on. You know, by tapping into heretofore unknown abilities and communicating with the dead. She gets the added bonus of being attracted to the brother of one of her new friends and isn't that a nice!

A little magic, a little ghostly communication, a little danger. And a lady who finds her tribe and figures out that she's more than just the betrayed woman trying to forget the past. *thumbs up*

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Profile Image for Anindita ლ.
227 reviews121 followers
September 28, 2022
This novel immediately struck me in the heart. The worst scenario she could have imagined has befallen widowed Lorna. A few years later, Lorna is rebuilding her life as a single mother. This is where the tale takes up. How Heather and Vivien act as new friends is extremely fun to watch.

A fantastic tale of magic, siblinghood and friendship, family, and magic. They are connected by three mystical rings, which take them on a wild ride.

The development of the three women's relationship and the unexpected discovery of their magic happened at precisely the perfect tempo. You won't feel as though you've missed anything significant thanks to the way it's paced. You feel as though you know the characters because they are so thoroughly written.

It is a finished novel with no open narrative lines, cliffhangers, or extraneous padding to make it longer. The book is really easy to read.

I will absolutely continue to the next book in the series since it was amazing. This can be a spooky read at times.
Profile Image for Trisha.
104 reviews7 followers
February 21, 2020
Things started out with a twist I didn’t quite expect, but the entire storyline was fantastic. It had me turning page after page to see what would happen next.
The characters are well fleshed out & the world building is very well done.
I am looking forward to reading more of this series.
#PWF #FAB13
Profile Image for Karen Fisher.
1,266 reviews11 followers
February 16, 2020
While leaving me a bit unsettled this book was riveting! It's a rollercoaster read through so many ups and downs. Super cool in the friendships of the three women. Great ending! I received an advanced copy of this book and freely leave this honest review.
Profile Image for Hsu Lee.
1,743 reviews9 followers
February 17, 2020
I voluntarily offered to review this book with no obligations and my opinions are honest!
This was a great book !
Lorna is having a really bad day.
Because of her pain from her past, she is afraid to trust again.
William is attracted to Lorna, but does he have a chance ?
Will Lorna let her past dictate her future.
Loved the characters + the storytelling !
It has all the ingredients that you need for a great book!
Profile Image for Caroline Paquin.
474 reviews20 followers
June 30, 2025
The bonds of female friendship and quite enduring, even newly formed alliances.

Lorna, Vivien, and Heather can tell you about it!

What joy to meet those three incredible ladies! Plus, magic apart, it reminds me of my own friends. The Sisterhood... with a second chance at love for one of them.

Looking very much forward to Vivien's story!
Profile Image for Monica.
1,526 reviews
February 17, 2020
I loved this book in this new series. This idea that the Fab 13 authors decided to do by making books about women over the age of 40 is Brilliant. This book is fun, funny, magical and romantic. Each lady had had some loss and now they have come together by fate to help them move on and find happiness. There is a great friendship bond that comes together and also a romantic relationship. You will get a witchy side. It will be fun to see where these 3 ladies end up with friendship, love and magic.

*I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.*

*I will be buying this book and all the other 12 books from the Fab 13*
Profile Image for Nikki Brooks.
3,523 reviews51 followers
February 18, 2020
Lorna thought losing her husband was grief enough. Then she was made a laughingstock when it turns out her husband was a bigamist - and was the other woman! With her children starting college she moves to Freewild Cove to escape the gossip.

With a new job and flat over the cinema, it may not be much but it's all she needs for now. She has made friends with her employer Heather and gets a bit tongue-tied over William, her boss' brother. She is NOT going there no matter how hot he is. Then Heathers friend Viv crashes into her life and she now has more friends than she has ever had!

But just as she settles into her new life, she and her friends find mysterious rings and new magical talents and seem to have called on a very disgruntled and horrible late husband!

Just goes to show alcohol and magic should not mix LOL. I loved the slow burn to start with William. Never expected Mr Orderly to be oh so naughty! I loved the way they were all linked by loss of some sort and just helped each other through it - no backbiting, no malicious thoughts - just good will and a firm belief in each other.

What is in store for Viv and Heather???
Profile Image for Kathy Tozzi.
238 reviews9 followers
February 24, 2020

Ever find one of those books that touch you heart and soul? Well this is it for me!
Lorna Addams was hit with a devastating secret betrayal while at her husbands funeral. One that changed her life completely.
Needing a new lease on life she starts over a town called Freewild Cove, North Carolina. A place where no one knows her or of her past.
She finds two women she grows fond of, Vivian and Heather. The three form a strong bond.
This is an amazing story of magic, friendship/sisterhood, family and magic. Three magic rings connect them all taking them on quite a ride.
This is part of a new series that takes us into the life of strong women over 40 years of age.
Age and experience kicks youth and fear of the unknown every time.
I can not wait for more, I have already preordered the next 2 books in this series!
Second Chance Magic
244 reviews9 followers
February 16, 2020
Last thing you think to find out at your husband's funeral is that you were his second wife. Unfortunately, for Lorna that is exactly what happens and her entire world turns upside down. She loses everything and moves to Freewild Cove for a new start where no one knows her story. Three years go by and she finally feels like her life is back on track. Little does she know that her new journey is just beginning. She just made two new best friends and they each received a ring the same night Lorna and Vivien met each other. Ever since Lorna moved to Freewild Cove she has been attracted to William but she doesn't trust her own judgement. One drunken night the new friends decide to test their new powers but it doesn't go according to plan.

Michelle has created an amazing new world full of powerful women who are getting a second chance at life just after 40. This story is full of intrigue, heat and comedy. I could not put it down. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for Vivien and Heather in the series.
3,407 reviews19 followers
February 17, 2020
A new life. She's forty. Divorced. Kids are away at college. She has menopause and empty nest syndrome to look forward to. No way. She's moving and starting over. Little did she know that her job and new friends would bring more than the job into her life. The boss's brother is hot and seems to feel the same about her. That's the good stuff. The rest -- not so much. Oh, she's gained a couple of cool gal pals, and the job is fun and includes an apartment. It's the other stuff. The magic stuff that has her wondering if she's dreaming. Hoping she's dreaming.

Will her friends stick by her when all hell (literally) breaks loose? After her cheating husband, does she even want to try again with another man?

The story is fun, great characters, hot guys, and some big surprises for them all. Don't miss the new series. I love the story and the characters.
Profile Image for Donna Hokanson.
1,694 reviews35 followers
February 21, 2020
Lots of feels throughtout

The feels started from the very first chapter. You feel for the woman and her three kid. The feels continue with meeting new friend. You got a bit of action and adventure throughout. This is the first book of three and even though I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series the ending to this was was satisfying. Very well written story.
I highly recommend this book to read.
Profile Image for Elisa.
3,222 reviews40 followers
February 26, 2020
Life really can start over second chances are just around the corner and magic truly does exist if you believe... Seeing is believing right???

Lorna is widowed and then gut punched when she finds out what her late hubby was really up to their entire marriage, now she has packed up and moved far away from Vermont, her kids are all off doing their own thing and it's time for Lorna to find her place and what a special place she finds...
I did love the descriptive writing in this story i really felt like I was in the old theater and it really was magical.

And Lorna's new friends Heather and Vivian they are both gorgeous worries and i can't wait for their stories either and then there is William, sweet, sweet William omg he and Lorna were just made for each other.

This was a sweet, emotional and sometimes terrifying read and i loved every page.
Profile Image for Valerie - Cats Luv Coffee Book Reviews .
378 reviews38 followers
April 1, 2020
Second Chance Magic by Michelle Pillow is another book in the Paranormal Women's Fiction by the FAB13. So far I've read Sucks to be Me and Wrong Side of Forty. Second Chance Magic fits in that group well with characters that are in their forties and finding themselves again after something big comes and shakes up their life. In the case of Second Chance Magic and Lorna Addams, that very big thing is that her husband dies. Bad enough, right? Now imagine that at the funeral, you find out that your husband of twenty years and the father of your two children had another wife! It's no wonder that Lorna needed a fresh start.

Read more at Wicked Cool Flight
Profile Image for Julie.
30 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2020
So Good

I really liked the protagonists in this book, Lorna, Heather, and Vivian are relatable and well rounded characters. Strong, but flawed. The mystery element was present, but took a slight backseat to the friendships and relationships of these women. And then there’s the magic. What’s not to like? Looking forward to the next couple of books.
Profile Image for Josie.
1,999 reviews
February 19, 2020
Wow, what a story

Okay, get a little spooked by ghosts or demons do not read at bedtime with the lights off. I may have a bad dream or two, but wow, what an awesome read. I already pre-order the next two books because "I got to know."
230 reviews13 followers
February 20, 2020
Fun new series!

A wonderful first book in this new series. It was exciting from the first page and I read it straight through. It was friendship and healing with a side of sexy! I can’t wait to read Val’s story!
1,382 reviews18 followers
July 27, 2020
This book hit me in the heart right from the beginning. Lorna is a widow who finds herself in the worst situation she couldn't imagine. The story picks up a few years later as Lorna is rebuilding her life as an empty-nest mom. I really enjoyed how Heather and Vivien step up as new friends. The three women work together to figure out what is happening to them and to solve the problems that arise. A very good first book in the series.
Profile Image for Nicki.
298 reviews6 followers
February 25, 2020
Friendship, magic, ghosts, and romance. What more could you want? This was a really entertaining book, I read straight through without stopping. It sucked me in and kept me from leaving with how great it was. I absolutely love the characters! My heart broke for them but I'm so happy they have each other. I can't wait for the next book!
169 reviews
March 24, 2021
Usually a fan but this one bored me completely

So don’t get me wrong, this writer is usually very good at what she does and I have read heeeeaps of her stories which I have enjoyed, but this storyline and the constant reminders of all the ladies ages really irked me. This is fantasy and an escape for readers, and I am not sure why we need to be constantly reminded that they are ‘just like us’. I am the same age as the main characters and i love the PWF series so far but as someone who doesn’t share the random old age foibles or aches and pains for the most part but the reminders that they are OLD felt like I should be feeling old and it was almost like an additional character to the whole book..is that necessary really to lay it on sooooo thick? It was a huge bummer and I read to feel happy, not like I need a reminder of being older. Add on to this, the storyline was super slow and strangely exactly like something else I read very recently of the lady with a crap exhusband and she is renting a room above and working at an old haunted theatre meeting two new friends all called to the same place (?) so I kept trying to work out how I’d bought the same book twice.. it’s a different book but yeah..so weird! Don’t think I’ll be back for no.2. Sorry!
1,543 reviews96 followers
September 17, 2023
At her husband's funeral, Lorna discovers he had lied to her for 20 years, the man she had married and had 3 children with, was a bigamist. When his legal wife takes everything from Lorna, she flees to a coastal town and befriends 2 women, Heather and Vivien. Each of them with unanswered questions and pain at the loss of a loved one. Heather's ancestry is rife with stories of the supernatural and magic but all discard it as fancy. Until each of the women find rings that change their lives forever. It was thrilling to read how they bumble through trying to use their newfound powers and in a quest for answers, unleashed something into their world. I loved how sceptical William is, until he can deny it no longer. And the relationship between Lorna and William tender and believable. A thriller, a mystery and magic, what more is to come? I love the unexpected events and really look forward to reading Heather and Vivien's stories.
Profile Image for Marie Arnold.
227 reviews4 followers
October 28, 2020
I love discovering new fantastic authors!!
Second chance magic is the first in a new series by one of 13 awesome female writers who have formed the paranormal women’s fiction group. A group of kick ass women who have decided that it’s not only the teenage, stereotypical female that’s in her teens to late 20’s that can have fun and get up to some paranormal shenanigans.

This book focuses on Lorna, a widowed mum of three grown up children, who after discovering she was the second wife after twenty years. She moves to a new town and finds two great new friends and that’s where the chaos ensues. Enjoy!!!
Give it a go it’ll have you hooked form the start.
Profile Image for Lisa.
447 reviews24 followers
February 27, 2020
Good

Friends don’t let friends séance drunk.
I really did enjoy this book, the magic, the mature characters, the heartache these three women have endured
Life can start over second chances are just around the corner and magic truly does exist if you believe..
Seeing is believing right??
277 reviews
May 6, 2020
The story was a little lackluster and with the exception of the last 20%, nothing really happens. Maybe some people would enjoy their bumbling discovery of magic, but it's not my cup of tea.

The relationship was ridiculous as well. Professing love after such a short time without even going on a single date and maybe half a dozen conversations? Yeah, no.
Profile Image for Helen Maddix.
298 reviews5 followers
June 10, 2020
Great start!

A great story for this new genre by Michelle Pillow. It's part of the new Paranormal Women's Fiction genre, and let's us meet 3 friends who have a connection that ties them together with the Paranormal. Well written and thought out. This was Lorna's story, book 2 is Vivian's.
Profile Image for Marsha Keeper Bookshelf.
4,290 reviews88 followers
February 28, 2020
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

Second Chance Magic begins the Order of Magic series with a story that is sure to break your heart and then allow you to watch as Lorna, and you, slowly heal that heart back again and perhaps a whole lot more as well. It’s a story of betrayal so deep, developing friendships, sisterhood even deeper, and of starting over when it’s the very last thing you believe possible for yourself. It hits on so many emotions, showcases a true women’s tribe of friends, and the possibility of romance in the future. It also hits every mental checkbox I have for anything Paranormal – so, yeah, I loved this story and am now officially hooked on continuing this series.

Ya know, I’d love to really talk about Second Chance Magic because I did enjoy it so much, but I can’t see how to do that without saying things you should discover firsthand. So, Lorna’s story is emotional, uplifting, and will hold you captive until the final page. I got angry for her, laughed with her, embraced her new life along with her, and loved the new sisterhood she’s found and cannot wait for the other ladies’ stories. Friendships, newly formed, will turn into something far more than she ever expected for herself – and love isn’t always a cruel betrayer either. I would not hesitate to recommend this story and series to anyone who believes that life does not stop at 30, that magic is possible, and friendships will get us through anything. Go, check this one out for yourself, you’ll be hooked as well.

I read this title when it was in Kindle Unlimited. As you read this review it may no longer be in KU but will be available on all e-reader platforms. No matter how you find Second Chance Magic you will find a story that will entertain, make you feel, and completely enjoy the time spent in this world.
Profile Image for Brandy Barber.
963 reviews23 followers
March 7, 2020
Lorna has had a pretty good life. Or so she thought. Her husband passes away and then SHOOT hits the fan. To move away and start over seems like a good idea. RIGHT?

New town, New job, New friends, New Man? Lorna has to reinvent her life now. She meets some outstanding people. She learns things are not always what they seem and Witches are real.



I thought this book was amazing. It really scared me in some parts. Not many books keep me scared. I think Lorna has joined the right town to help overcome her grief about her husband. This book shows that friends can be made at any stage in life.

You are going to want to read this book. It is a powerful story about woman over 40 who have not let age slow them down. They are tired of people looking at them like they are old and useless. This author is apart of the PWF movement. Pick up her book today.
Profile Image for Rolé - Hooked By That Book.
732 reviews24 followers
October 24, 2021


It is a gripping story about forty-something Lorna finding much more than she bargained for and the nail-biting consequences of dabbling with her new magical powers.

Lorna discovered a horrible secret at her husband's funeral. Instead of having a chance to mourn the man she had spent a big part of her life with, she is stuck with the consequences of all his lies. Her children are all grown up and making their own way in the world and Lorna must start over. She moves to the small town of Freewild Cove in the hopes of starting fresh where no one knows of her past. Lorna makes two new best friends, finds a new man, and it turns out she can do magic.

The friendship between the three woman and the unexpected revelation of their magic all unfolded at just the right pace. I found the magic happening to be very vivid and a bit scary, it's not cutesy at all. All the characters, including William, were well-developed and interesting. I was on the edge of my seat, eagerly reading to know what is going to happen next. I am excited to read the rest of the series.

I received this book as part of a book distribution project supported in part by the Mississippi Arts Commission (MAC) and the National Endowment for the Arts. The author was awarded a grant to distribute copies of this book to readers all over the world. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Gill M.
368 reviews27 followers
September 10, 2022
Lorna Addams had a good life. A husband and almost grown children.
Then her husband dies. At the funeral she discovers her “husband” was a bigamist. Then his wife takes legal action leaving Lorna with no money or home.

With her children settled in college, she makes a new life alone.

In Freewild Cove, she hopes to start again without the baggage of her previous humiliation.

A job managing and living at the local theatre brings new friends. Her boss and landlady, Heather introduces her to Vivien Stone. So starts a friendship of forty something women which rapidly becomes something more.

On the same night, they each find a ring in their homes. Together, those rings combine to strengthen the latent psychic powers that each possesses.

A seance leads Lorna to summon her “husband” to explain his betrayal. The outcome is not what any of them expect!

Excellent story combining midlife rediscovery, friendship and the paranormal.
Compelling first in a fascinating series.

Good narration.

I received a free copy of this audiobook via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. All views expressed are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 412 reviews

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