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Second Chance Chigago #4
Healing My Heart
Going home for the holidays is supposed to be joyful and relaxing.
Until I land in Chicago and reconnect with Evan Holt.
Cue anxiety, hopeful star eyes, and sweaty palms.
Three years ago, the ambitious lawyer and steadfast single dad broke my heart.
That hasn’t stopped him from appearing in my dreams or lingering in my thoughts as a big, unanswered “what-if?”
Now, I’m back, he’s here, and I’m volunteering to babysit his son Ollie.
Slipping back into old routines with Evan is easy.
It isn’t long until I’m desperate for his touch, longing for his smile, and giddy to see him at the end of each day.
But our spark is about to be snuffed out.
As things between Evan and me heat up, my past comes roaring back.
In the shape of a man who damaged me a million times worse than Evan, forging my jaded heart.
In a dangerous threat that looms larger the closer Evan and I become.
Three years ago, Evan Holt didn’t fight for me.
This time, he’s not backing down.
I am.
***
Healing My Heart is a sweet and sexy single dad, second chance romance. It can be read as a standalone.
Until I land in Chicago and reconnect with Evan Holt.
Cue anxiety, hopeful star eyes, and sweaty palms.
Three years ago, the ambitious lawyer and steadfast single dad broke my heart.
That hasn’t stopped him from appearing in my dreams or lingering in my thoughts as a big, unanswered “what-if?”
Now, I’m back, he’s here, and I’m volunteering to babysit his son Ollie.
Slipping back into old routines with Evan is easy.
It isn’t long until I’m desperate for his touch, longing for his smile, and giddy to see him at the end of each day.
But our spark is about to be snuffed out.
As things between Evan and me heat up, my past comes roaring back.
In the shape of a man who damaged me a million times worse than Evan, forging my jaded heart.
In a dangerous threat that looms larger the closer Evan and I become.
Three years ago, Evan Holt didn’t fight for me.
This time, he’s not backing down.
I am.
***
Healing My Heart is a sweet and sexy single dad, second chance romance. It can be read as a standalone.
- GenresRomanceSecond Chance
237 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 3, 2020
13 people are currently reading
225 people want to read
About the author
Gina Azzi
63 books825 followersHi! I'm Gina and I write realistic, relatable, sweet New Adult and Contemporary Romance books. A NJ native, I have lived and worked abroad before settling in Canada with my husband and Littles. Although I can't iron (at all), I am a passionate reader, frequent globetrotter, and aspiring baker (recipes appreciated!). I love hearing from fellow readers so please connect!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
December 5, 2020
Healing My Heart, the fourth book in the Second Chance Chicago Series is a second-chance contemporary romance. There are spoilers in the review for Book One and Two of the series.
Synopsis:
Charlotte "Charlie" Adams once hoped, when she was twenty-four, that Evan Holt will make her his. But then she realised that she should never put her dreams on hold, certainly not for a man who wasn't certain about her. And she moves to New York to pursue interior designing.
Some three years later, Evan Holt, a now thirty-six-year-old criminal defence lawyer, is successful beyond his dreams. But he still misses what could not be, with Charlie, and feels guilty about making his now eleven-year-old son, Ollie, go through that too.
When Charlie moves back to Chicago for a brief period of time, and with Ollie's babysitter not available due to a family emergency, it is up to Charlie to entertain Ollie. And the kid is enthusiastic enough. Will these three be able to be a family this time around?
Review:
This is the first book by the author that I am reading. I am a sucker for both the second-chance and the single dad tropes.
Narrated in the first-person dual perspective, the story starts with a prologue about three-and-a-half years earlier. It is a blissful beginning. But it quickly turns sour when it is evident that Evan doesn't want to go all the way and is content with things remaining casual between them.
Healing My Heart is a Christmas romance that will tear your heart and stitch it back up. It will make your heart ache for Evan and Charlie but it will heal your heart too as the title says.
It is a really gooey romance, but the poor confused souls blow hot and cold towards each other till about the middle of the story, neither willing to be upfront about their feelings for each other. And then the unthinkable happens, when first Charlie, and then Evan's ex are thrown in the mix.
Also, having a pre-teen's feelings to consider too, what happens after that is not at all easy to get through, resulting in so much heartbreak all around.
The character transition that Evan goes through is so amazing. And it was kind of strange, the way the book makes you feel about falling out of love, it digs into how that can happen, especially when the same has to be explained to an eleven-year-old. And that was something amazing to experience, the way it was written.
Another magical experience was Charlie and Evan's casual conversations. I know that in a book nothing is casual, but it was so heart-warming, it was like at a whole different level, the way Evan and Charlie cared for each other. That is how their love for each other became obvious.
Ollie, how can I not mention that understanding and lovely kid. He is a joyful presence throughout the book and it was amusing to see Evan frustrated whenever Ollie mooned over Charlie at the beginning of the story.
There was one thing that bothered me though, the unresolved case of Frankie, Charlie's ex. He created so much trouble in all their lives and in the end, there was not a single mention of him. It's like he simply vanished.
Eli Holt and Zoe Clark from Broken Lies and Twisted Truths (formerly known as the Regretful Lies Duet and now Book One and Two of the present series) are here with a beautiful family. While Healing My Heart can be read as a standalone, Charlie is Zoe's best friend and Evan is Eli's older brother. So, there's a lot of family time and bonding which I absolutely adored. And I can't wait to read more of Gina Azzi's works, including all the previous books in this series!
Thank you to Candi Kane PR for an e-ARC of the book.
Originally posted on:
Shaina's Musings
Synopsis:
Charlotte "Charlie" Adams once hoped, when she was twenty-four, that Evan Holt will make her his. But then she realised that she should never put her dreams on hold, certainly not for a man who wasn't certain about her. And she moves to New York to pursue interior designing.
Some three years later, Evan Holt, a now thirty-six-year-old criminal defence lawyer, is successful beyond his dreams. But he still misses what could not be, with Charlie, and feels guilty about making his now eleven-year-old son, Ollie, go through that too.
When Charlie moves back to Chicago for a brief period of time, and with Ollie's babysitter not available due to a family emergency, it is up to Charlie to entertain Ollie. And the kid is enthusiastic enough. Will these three be able to be a family this time around?
Review:
This is the first book by the author that I am reading. I am a sucker for both the second-chance and the single dad tropes.
Narrated in the first-person dual perspective, the story starts with a prologue about three-and-a-half years earlier. It is a blissful beginning. But it quickly turns sour when it is evident that Evan doesn't want to go all the way and is content with things remaining casual between them.
Healing My Heart is a Christmas romance that will tear your heart and stitch it back up. It will make your heart ache for Evan and Charlie but it will heal your heart too as the title says.
It is a really gooey romance, but the poor confused souls blow hot and cold towards each other till about the middle of the story, neither willing to be upfront about their feelings for each other. And then the unthinkable happens, when first Charlie, and then Evan's ex are thrown in the mix.
Also, having a pre-teen's feelings to consider too, what happens after that is not at all easy to get through, resulting in so much heartbreak all around.
The character transition that Evan goes through is so amazing. And it was kind of strange, the way the book makes you feel about falling out of love, it digs into how that can happen, especially when the same has to be explained to an eleven-year-old. And that was something amazing to experience, the way it was written.
Another magical experience was Charlie and Evan's casual conversations. I know that in a book nothing is casual, but it was so heart-warming, it was like at a whole different level, the way Evan and Charlie cared for each other. That is how their love for each other became obvious.
Ollie, how can I not mention that understanding and lovely kid. He is a joyful presence throughout the book and it was amusing to see Evan frustrated whenever Ollie mooned over Charlie at the beginning of the story.
There was one thing that bothered me though, the unresolved case of Frankie, Charlie's ex. He created so much trouble in all their lives and in the end, there was not a single mention of him. It's like he simply vanished.
Eli Holt and Zoe Clark from Broken Lies and Twisted Truths (formerly known as the Regretful Lies Duet and now Book One and Two of the present series) are here with a beautiful family. While Healing My Heart can be read as a standalone, Charlie is Zoe's best friend and Evan is Eli's older brother. So, there's a lot of family time and bonding which I absolutely adored. And I can't wait to read more of Gina Azzi's works, including all the previous books in this series!
Thank you to Candi Kane PR for an e-ARC of the book.
Originally posted on:
Shaina's Musings
November 26, 2020
3.75 stars
Healing My Hear is the fourth novel in Second Chance Chicago, series by Gina Azzi, romantic and sweet this story is sure to lure in fans romance novels and emotional stories.
Charlie and Evan are the protagonists of this love story; a single dad and a sweet girl that have past. They both eloquently show their vulnerabilities and I found I warmed to them both very early on. Their chemistry is palpable and led to some very sexy, passionate scenes between the hero and heroine.
As the story unfolds the layers of the past emerge providing understanding for the reader and all the reasons why. I thought this was standalone when I request an arc but I'm sure when I read whole series i will like it even more . Overall this story is a sweet second chance read that offers effortless escapism for readers of the romance genre.
* 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘊𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘪 𝘒𝘢𝘯𝘦 𝘗𝘙 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. *
Healing My Hear is the fourth novel in Second Chance Chicago, series by Gina Azzi, romantic and sweet this story is sure to lure in fans romance novels and emotional stories.
Charlie and Evan are the protagonists of this love story; a single dad and a sweet girl that have past. They both eloquently show their vulnerabilities and I found I warmed to them both very early on. Their chemistry is palpable and led to some very sexy, passionate scenes between the hero and heroine.
As the story unfolds the layers of the past emerge providing understanding for the reader and all the reasons why. I thought this was standalone when I request an arc but I'm sure when I read whole series i will like it even more . Overall this story is a sweet second chance read that offers effortless escapism for readers of the romance genre.
* 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘺 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘊𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘪 𝘒𝘢𝘯𝘦 𝘗𝘙 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. *
January 14, 2021
Charlie & Evan’s story! A story of second chances and what a Wonderful story it was!
These characters in this series have been so much fun to read and Gina Azzi wraps this one up with a lot of tape. It takes you a while to get to the present inside but when you do, it’s just what you wanted and hoped for.
I will leave you with a quote from this second chance story.....
“ Our hearts can’t heal if we try to ignore our pasts, to pretend they never happened. Instead, we should celebrate the good times, remember the great moments, and move forward.
We should make better choices that hopefully yield happier outcomes “
These characters in this series have been so much fun to read and Gina Azzi wraps this one up with a lot of tape. It takes you a while to get to the present inside but when you do, it’s just what you wanted and hoped for.
I will leave you with a quote from this second chance story.....
“ Our hearts can’t heal if we try to ignore our pasts, to pretend they never happened. Instead, we should celebrate the good times, remember the great moments, and move forward.
We should make better choices that hopefully yield happier outcomes “
December 1, 2020
GAAAH! The feels! Especially when Evan gets his head out of his rump and realizes what he has in front of him. Anywho, getting ahead of myself. Evan and Charlie had a long standing thing but when things blurred between the lines for her and Evan fought it and not for her, she ran. Honestly, I could not blame the girl. But when things got intense after coming home from being gone so long, I adored Evan and not wanted to smack him for fighting for her and not fighting his feelings. But Charlie is making him work for it. I think that is what I loved about this one. She didn’t give in so easily, even with her ex slinking around. She made him work for it and it was a thing of magic. Even Evan’s son had a play into it as well. While there is a lot of push and pull in this story, it was ultimately a story of claiming that love and rolling with it and moving on with their lives. I really enjoyed this installment of this series!
November 19, 2020
Charlie and Evan have a past. But life and circumstances were not aligned for them to be together. Charlie moved to New York City to continue on with her schooling leaving Evan and all of the dirtiness of Chicago behind. Now, three years later, Charlie is home for the holidays to visit family and figure out her next career move.
Evan single dad to Ollie, workaholic, failed marriage because of his wife’s addiction. In a pinch Charlie jumps in to help Evan when for the next few weeks, he seems to be without Ollie’s normal nanny.
Life throws them together again and again. Charlie tries hard to put up walls, so she doesn’t fall into old patterns with Evan. Evan broke her heart when he let her walk away three years ago.
Both characters are fighting with their pasts that quickly catches up to them shortly after Charlie’s return to Chicago.
This was my first time reading the author. I read this as a standalone. It was well written with very good characters. The story line had a few bumps but overall, I enjoyed the story. It was cute, sweet and just enough drama to keep you turning the page.
Evan single dad to Ollie, workaholic, failed marriage because of his wife’s addiction. In a pinch Charlie jumps in to help Evan when for the next few weeks, he seems to be without Ollie’s normal nanny.
Life throws them together again and again. Charlie tries hard to put up walls, so she doesn’t fall into old patterns with Evan. Evan broke her heart when he let her walk away three years ago.
Both characters are fighting with their pasts that quickly catches up to them shortly after Charlie’s return to Chicago.
This was my first time reading the author. I read this as a standalone. It was well written with very good characters. The story line had a few bumps but overall, I enjoyed the story. It was cute, sweet and just enough drama to keep you turning the page.
December 5, 2020
4 Star Review Healing My Heart (Second Chance Chicago #2) by Gina Azzi
Gina Azzi is a new author to me and I have no idea why I have not come across her books before.
Healing My Heart is a second chance at love story which was an entertaining read. Evan and Charlie have history and when Charlie finds herself returning home to contemplate her future she runs in to single dad Evan, the man who broke her heart and volunteers to help him out with his young son Ollie since he seems to need a nanny.
Despite herself and her determination to keep the walls she has built protecting her heart up, Evan and Ollie soon start chipping them away.
The baggage that both Evan and Charlie carry is real but if they can get through it and face the past and the drama, then they have a chance at a future together.
Can the spirit of Christmas brings these two together and in doing so create a loving family for Ollie?
The secondary characters were entertaining and when time permits I will be reading the rest of the books in this series.
Gina Azzi is a new author to me and I have no idea why I have not come across her books before.
Healing My Heart is a second chance at love story which was an entertaining read. Evan and Charlie have history and when Charlie finds herself returning home to contemplate her future she runs in to single dad Evan, the man who broke her heart and volunteers to help him out with his young son Ollie since he seems to need a nanny.
Despite herself and her determination to keep the walls she has built protecting her heart up, Evan and Ollie soon start chipping them away.
The baggage that both Evan and Charlie carry is real but if they can get through it and face the past and the drama, then they have a chance at a future together.
Can the spirit of Christmas brings these two together and in doing so create a loving family for Ollie?
The secondary characters were entertaining and when time permits I will be reading the rest of the books in this series.
December 3, 2020
Healing My Heart is told in alternating POV’s by Charlotte “Charlie” Adams and Evan Holt. It can be read as a standalone or enjoyed as book 4 in the series.
Charlie had problems with her dad and a controlling boyfriend during her teenage years which put her behind with her education. She is now easy going, funny and bubbly. She has managed to get her life back on track, goes to college and works part time at Shooters. She starts a relationship with single dad Evan, their chemistry is great and she gets on well with his son Ollie. Charlie starts to fall for him and gets more emotionally involved than he does. If you have read the previous books in the series then you will know that Evan is Eli’s brother and Eli is married to Charlie’s best friend Zoe.
Evan is a criminal defence lawyer, calculated and decisive. He is a workaholic finding it very difficult to find a good work-life balance. He is nine years older and divorced so doesn’t want to hold her back from achieving her dreams. It is heartbreaking for both of them as he tries to do the right thing. She ends up going to New York for graduate course in design determined not to compromise her dreams and put man before her goals. It is a chance for a fresh start and to reinvent herself as she tired of waiting around for something more which she knows deep down she deserves.
“Getting lost in Evan Holt has never been my problem, it’s been finding myself in the aftermath.
Fast forward a few years and Charlie comes home for Christmas. She ends up offering to look after Ollie for Evan and the sparks between them come alive again. She feels a pull to him and cross he still affects her. He realises what he lost letting her go and is determined to put it right this time. He feels a constant failure to Ollie, overwhelmed and exhausted with work. Charlie is great with Ollie and they have some very moving moments together. We find out more about Charlie and Evan’s pasts and her friends from New York provide the fun in the story.
“ Our hearts can’t heal if we try to ignore our pasts, to pretend they never happened. Instead, we should celebrate the good times, remember the great moments, and move forward. We should make better choices that hopefully yield happier outcomes.”
They have both changed and matured so hopefully this time will work out better but it’s not all plain sailing and they end up having to cope with far more than just reigniting their relationship. Charlie and Evan’s story is heartbreaking at times and I really wondered if they would get their second chance especially when their pasts collide with the present. The author adds some family drama for Charlie and a couple of twists to the story before an uplifting and sweet ending.
This was my first book by Gina Azzi so obviously I haven’t read the previous books in Second Chance Chicago series but that didn’t affect me enjoying this one. The secondary characters were interesting so I look forward to going back and reading their stories. I loved how strong Charlie became and her determination to prevent her past affecting her future as much as possible. As their reunion is set over Christmas hopefully some magic will find its way to give this couple and the wonderful Ollie a Christmas they all deserve.
Merged review:
Healing My Heart is told in alternating POV’s by Charlotte “Charlie” Adams and Evan Holt. It can be read as a standalone or enjoyed as book 4 in the series.
Charlie had problems with her dad and a controlling boyfriend during her teenage years which put her behind with her education. She is now easy going, funny and bubbly. She has managed to get her life back on track, goes to college and works part time at Shooters. She starts a relationship with single dad Evan, their chemistry is great and she gets on well with his son Ollie. Charlie starts to fall for him and gets more emotionally involved than he does. If you have read the previous books in the series then you will know that Evan is Eli’s brother and Eli is married to Charlie’s best friend Zoe.
Evan is a criminal defence lawyer, calculated and decisive. He is a workaholic finding it very difficult to find a good work-life balance. He is nine years older and divorced so doesn’t want to hold her back from achieving her dreams. It is heartbreaking for both of them as he tries to do the right thing. She ends up going to New York for graduate course in design determined not to compromise her dreams and put man before her goals. It is a chance for a fresh start and to reinvent herself as she tired of waiting around for something more which she knows deep down she deserves.
“Getting lost in Evan Holt has never been my problem, it’s been finding myself in the aftermath.
Fast forward a few years and Charlie comes home for Christmas. She ends up offering to look after Ollie for Evan and the sparks between them come alive again. She feels a pull to him and cross he still affects her. He realises what he lost letting her go and is determined to put it right this time. He feels a constant failure to Ollie, overwhelmed and exhausted with work. Charlie is great with Ollie and they have some very moving moments together. We find out more about Charlie and Evan’s pasts and her friends from New York provide the fun in the story.
“ Our hearts can’t heal if we try to ignore our pasts, to pretend they never happened. Instead, we should celebrate the good times, remember the great moments, and move forward. We should make better choices that hopefully yield happier outcomes.”
They have both changed and matured so hopefully this time will work out better but it’s not all plain sailing and they end up having to cope with far more than just reigniting their relationship. Charlie and Evan’s story is heartbreaking at times and I really wondered if they would get their second chance especially when their pasts collide with the present. The author adds some family drama for Charlie and a couple of twists to the story before an uplifting and sweet ending.
This was my first book by Gina Azzi so obviously I haven’t read the previous books in Second Chance Chicago series but that didn’t affect me enjoying this one. The secondary characters were interesting so I look forward to going back and reading their stories. I loved how strong Charlie became and her determination to prevent her past affecting her future as much as possible. As their reunion is set over Christmas hopefully some magic will find its way to give this couple and the wonderful Ollie a Christmas they all deserve.
December 4, 2020
<> Healing My Heart - Gina Azzi - Second Chances Chicago #4 | 237p. Independente 🇺🇲🔞 5⭐
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Três anos atrás Evan partiu o coração de Charlie para fazê-la voar. Agora ela está de volta a Chicago mais linda e independente do que nunca e ele não sabe bem o que fazer com isso. Quando ela se oferece para cuidar do filho dele de doze anos, Ollie, eles acabam se reconectando e a chama entre eles renasce. Porém, Charlie tem um ex que voltara para tornar a vida dela miserável e fará com que ela se afaste de Evan para o bem do filho dele. Essa segunda chance não será possível?
.
.
Esse é o segundo livro que eu leio da autora e posso dizer que estou encantada. A escrita de Gina Azzi é fluida e tão real que você só quer embrulhar Charlie em um potinho e escondê-la do mundo.
.
.
Evan sempre colocou a felicidade do filho em primeiro lugar. Quando ele não se abre para ter um relacionamento sério com Charlie e a manda para longe, além de pensar no filho, ele pensou no fato dela ainda ter muita coisa para viver. Um mocinho que abre mão da felicidade para que os sonhos da mulher que ama possam ser realizados.
.
.
Já Charlie é tão abnegada quanto ele. Quando ela tem a possibilidade de ser feliz, ela abre mão disso em favor da felicidade de Ollie para que o garoto possa ter a família que merece.
.
.
Eu adorei como esse romance mais maduro se desenvolveu com os dois pés no chão e com um final super plausível com a construção da história e das personalidades dos personagens.
.
.
Infelizmente esse livro ainda não chegou aí Brasil, mas eu recomendo para quem lê em inglês e gosta de livros de segundas chances.
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.
#resenhasLeD #romance #ginaazzi #secondchances
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Três anos atrás Evan partiu o coração de Charlie para fazê-la voar. Agora ela está de volta a Chicago mais linda e independente do que nunca e ele não sabe bem o que fazer com isso. Quando ela se oferece para cuidar do filho dele de doze anos, Ollie, eles acabam se reconectando e a chama entre eles renasce. Porém, Charlie tem um ex que voltara para tornar a vida dela miserável e fará com que ela se afaste de Evan para o bem do filho dele. Essa segunda chance não será possível?
.
.
Esse é o segundo livro que eu leio da autora e posso dizer que estou encantada. A escrita de Gina Azzi é fluida e tão real que você só quer embrulhar Charlie em um potinho e escondê-la do mundo.
.
.
Evan sempre colocou a felicidade do filho em primeiro lugar. Quando ele não se abre para ter um relacionamento sério com Charlie e a manda para longe, além de pensar no filho, ele pensou no fato dela ainda ter muita coisa para viver. Um mocinho que abre mão da felicidade para que os sonhos da mulher que ama possam ser realizados.
.
.
Já Charlie é tão abnegada quanto ele. Quando ela tem a possibilidade de ser feliz, ela abre mão disso em favor da felicidade de Ollie para que o garoto possa ter a família que merece.
.
.
Eu adorei como esse romance mais maduro se desenvolveu com os dois pés no chão e com um final super plausível com a construção da história e das personalidades dos personagens.
.
.
Infelizmente esse livro ainda não chegou aí Brasil, mas eu recomendo para quem lê em inglês e gosta de livros de segundas chances.
.
.
#resenhasLeD #romance #ginaazzi #secondchances
December 4, 2020
I really love Gina Azzi's writing style, and have come to crave her stories, but I just couldn't get past what Evan did. You see, I just don't have the easy forgiving gene because before I forgive someone who broke my heart, I'm putting them through the paces first. Evan broke Charlie's heart so he was public enemy #1 in my eyes. And it didn't help that the moment she came home, she was helping him out with his son (the son stole the show honestly), so he should have been bending over backwards for a long time for her big heart that he had no problem destroying. I will say that powerful connection was still there & wasn't going to be denied for long, but just as they were actually taking a chance on exploring more, both of their past just weren't staying in the past. I won't say who did what, or name names so you'll have to find out for yourselves. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
November 25, 2020
Healing My Heart by Gina Azzi is book 4 in the Second Chance Chicago series and can be read as a standalone. The book tells the story of Charlie and Evan. Both of them have a past with each other, but Evan wasn’t willing to stand up and make a commitment to Charlie, so she left Chicago to finish her education. Years later, they come back together again when Charlie comes home for the holidays to help not only her family but also Evan’s family, when she helps him to look after his son, Ollie.
Even though Charlie wants some distance between her and Evan, he seems to be everywhere she is, popping up with his cute son, who ends up roping her into helping him make an epic Christmas present for his dad. But things aren’t smooth sailing for the pair as they start growing closer and people from both of their pasts pop up to cause some major drama.
This was a beautifully written book with some real drama thrown into the mix. Evan and Charlie are both great characters to read about and you feel their uncertainty about how their life is going and what they want through every page. This is a sweet, second chance romantic read with some Christmassy elements thrown into the mix to make it a bit more magical. I love the relationship that Charlie has with Ollie, Evan’s son and the fact that Evan realises that he hasn’t always been a constant father figure in his life. If you like heart-warmers, then this is the book for you!
ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
Even though Charlie wants some distance between her and Evan, he seems to be everywhere she is, popping up with his cute son, who ends up roping her into helping him make an epic Christmas present for his dad. But things aren’t smooth sailing for the pair as they start growing closer and people from both of their pasts pop up to cause some major drama.
This was a beautifully written book with some real drama thrown into the mix. Evan and Charlie are both great characters to read about and you feel their uncertainty about how their life is going and what they want through every page. This is a sweet, second chance romantic read with some Christmassy elements thrown into the mix to make it a bit more magical. I love the relationship that Charlie has with Ollie, Evan’s son and the fact that Evan realises that he hasn’t always been a constant father figure in his life. If you like heart-warmers, then this is the book for you!
ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊
More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
December 3, 2020
ARC is provided in exchange for honest review ~
This is the first time I read from Gina Azzi so I didn't know what to expect. But surprisingly, this book is actually better than I expected and I truly enjoyed it very much. Basically, this story is about Charlie and Evan who had a past but they ended up parting ways since Evan couldn't give Charlie more than what she desires. Three years later, Charlie returned to visit her family, and along the way she decided to help Evan to take care of his son, Ollie. Overall, I have to say that this book is pretty sweet and I love the romance development between Evan and Charlie. I seriously think that Gina did a great job in delivering this second chance romance trope and I can't wait to read more from her.
This is the first time I read from Gina Azzi so I didn't know what to expect. But surprisingly, this book is actually better than I expected and I truly enjoyed it very much. Basically, this story is about Charlie and Evan who had a past but they ended up parting ways since Evan couldn't give Charlie more than what she desires. Three years later, Charlie returned to visit her family, and along the way she decided to help Evan to take care of his son, Ollie. Overall, I have to say that this book is pretty sweet and I love the romance development between Evan and Charlie. I seriously think that Gina did a great job in delivering this second chance romance trope and I can't wait to read more from her.
December 3, 2020
This is the 4th book in this series and is Evan and Charlie’s story. These two have a history and Charlie was heartbroken when Evan walked away 3-years previously. Having been away to finish schooling Charlie is now home for the holidays to visit her family and figure out her next career move. Evan is a workaholic lawyer and single dad, and when he needs a nanny for his son Ollie, Charlie offers to help. Can these two have a 2nd chance? This is a well written story which is sweet, romantic, passionate, and with palpable chemistry and love. I look forward to reading more from this author and I recommend her work for all readers.
November 22, 2020
Healing My Heart
(Second Chance Chicago #4)
Written by: Gina Azzi
I haven’t read a Gina Azzi book for awhile, reading Healing My Heart has made me realize I need to do so more often.
Charlie Adams and Evan Holt had been one hot item when ever they got together, but Charlie was a bit more invested in what they had and Evan was playing the “I shouldn’t,” “I can’t,” “I don’t want to hold her back,” game and in the end he didn’t hold her back, she left to go New York City and study in design school something she had always wanted. Ok something else she wanted, because she did want Evan!
Three years later, Charlie shows up and although she works hard to stop from falling back into the old Charlie gives, Evan takes routine, she stands up tall and speaks so she’s heard. So yes, she is going to do Evan a huge favor for the few weeks, but she likes his son and knows he works hard, so yes, she will look after Ollie after school.
The more time Evan and Charlie are around each other though, man, the heat, the tension, the smoke from the desire that runs back and forth between them like an electrical current, begins to tear down not just her protective walls, but his as well.
Charlie has an ex-fiancé and Evan an ex-wife and one of them is being pressured by their past to end what is just beginning.
Gina Azzi has written a truly beautiful second chance romance story in Healing My Heart. With the use of chemistry, bad histories, and pressure being placed on one of the main characters she has given us a story where characters change and grow and the ability for love to blossom and grow when truths are shared and secrets are revealed. A most enjoyable read!
(Second Chance Chicago #4)
Written by: Gina Azzi
I haven’t read a Gina Azzi book for awhile, reading Healing My Heart has made me realize I need to do so more often.
Charlie Adams and Evan Holt had been one hot item when ever they got together, but Charlie was a bit more invested in what they had and Evan was playing the “I shouldn’t,” “I can’t,” “I don’t want to hold her back,” game and in the end he didn’t hold her back, she left to go New York City and study in design school something she had always wanted. Ok something else she wanted, because she did want Evan!
Three years later, Charlie shows up and although she works hard to stop from falling back into the old Charlie gives, Evan takes routine, she stands up tall and speaks so she’s heard. So yes, she is going to do Evan a huge favor for the few weeks, but she likes his son and knows he works hard, so yes, she will look after Ollie after school.
The more time Evan and Charlie are around each other though, man, the heat, the tension, the smoke from the desire that runs back and forth between them like an electrical current, begins to tear down not just her protective walls, but his as well.
Charlie has an ex-fiancé and Evan an ex-wife and one of them is being pressured by their past to end what is just beginning.
Gina Azzi has written a truly beautiful second chance romance story in Healing My Heart. With the use of chemistry, bad histories, and pressure being placed on one of the main characters she has given us a story where characters change and grow and the ability for love to blossom and grow when truths are shared and secrets are revealed. A most enjoyable read!
November 28, 2020
4.5 Stars for Healing My Heart ( Second Chance Chicago #4)
This is the first book I have read by Gina Azzi but it certainly won’t be the last because Charlie and Evan’s story ticked all my boxes, in fact it’s left wanting to play catch up with the rest of this entertaining series. I may not have read the previous books in Second Chance, Chicago but that didn’t stop me falling hard and fast for this couple as well as loving all the secondary characters.
Evan is a single dad to Ollie, a workaholic with a failed marriage behind him so the last thing he is looking for is love .....
Charlie is home for the holidays and when she sees Evan struggling without a nanny for Ollie she jumps in feet first without thinking about the consequences of being around the man who broke her heart three years ago....
Will second time around work any better for this couple and will the Christmas Spirit work it’s magic and bring this couple and Ollie together as a family. I really enjoyed this holiday second chance romance and I’m excited to read the rest of the series even if I’m doing it back to front. Great read that will put you in the holiday mood.
This is the first book I have read by Gina Azzi but it certainly won’t be the last because Charlie and Evan’s story ticked all my boxes, in fact it’s left wanting to play catch up with the rest of this entertaining series. I may not have read the previous books in Second Chance, Chicago but that didn’t stop me falling hard and fast for this couple as well as loving all the secondary characters.
Evan is a single dad to Ollie, a workaholic with a failed marriage behind him so the last thing he is looking for is love .....
Charlie is home for the holidays and when she sees Evan struggling without a nanny for Ollie she jumps in feet first without thinking about the consequences of being around the man who broke her heart three years ago....
Will second time around work any better for this couple and will the Christmas Spirit work it’s magic and bring this couple and Ollie together as a family. I really enjoyed this holiday second chance romance and I’m excited to read the rest of the series even if I’m doing it back to front. Great read that will put you in the holiday mood.
December 4, 2020
Wow!! Wonderful book!!
I was so excited to read Evan and Charlie's story after seeing them together in Saving My Soul. I absolutely adore Ollie's character, and I love that Charlie helped Evan out watching him while she was home.
I thought the twist on the story involving Charlie's ex was so on point and how it integrated with Evans job as a lawyer.
The ending was absolutely perfect... perfect HEA and I couldn't ask for more.
Loved this story sooooooo much!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I recieved an ARC for my honest review.
I was so excited to read Evan and Charlie's story after seeing them together in Saving My Soul. I absolutely adore Ollie's character, and I love that Charlie helped Evan out watching him while she was home.
I thought the twist on the story involving Charlie's ex was so on point and how it integrated with Evans job as a lawyer.
The ending was absolutely perfect... perfect HEA and I couldn't ask for more.
Loved this story sooooooo much!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I recieved an ARC for my honest review.
December 4, 2020
Oh, Evan and Charlie. You broke my heart. This one had so much hurt, but so much love and sacrifice. It's even worse when you have to see the person you let go of because that person is in your group of family and friends. I loved this story about finding yourself and living your dreams to get to the next phase of your life. It also tells you to not give up when the road seems extremely long. Everyone deserves a second chance at love and life.
December 4, 2020
Charlie & Evan’s second chance love story was sweet and engaging and I loved Charlie which is rare for me cause I typically always like the hero more then the heroine but not in this one, in this one I wanted to slap Evan for hurting Charlie and still after years later when he needs help with his son she steps in no questions asked. There chemistry was still strong but there’s it’s never that easy is it lol
December 4, 2020
This is a sweet and sexy second chance romance between Evan and Charlie. I adore the characters and really loved their story even though there's a little bit of drama. It was still a nice read. I love the romance growth between Evan and Charlie even after three years he broke her heart.
I think Gina did a really great job at this one and I can't wait to read more from her!
I think Gina did a really great job at this one and I can't wait to read more from her!
December 3, 2020
Healing My Heart by Gina Azzi is the fourth book in the Sevond Chance Chicago series. This is a sweet and sexy second chance romance that has a little drama and a lot of fun. I adore the characters and really loved their story.
December 3, 2020
Wonderful love story with an unexpected ending. Definitely a HEA, but how they get there is not what I expected. I can relate to the characters and understand their life issues. Well worth the read!
November 23, 2020
This new story by Gina Azzi is going to keep you turning the pages until the very end! Full of heart, heat and the right amount of angst this story is going to keep you invested!
This is the story of Evan and Charlie.
I absolutely admired Charlie! Her self-preservation skills were amazingly honest and real. I so empathized with her and I was cheering her hard. She knew she deserved more and her past has shown her that she deserves it! She is definitely one of my favorite heroines!
Evan, oh my me Evan...I could understand his hesitancy. I admired his strength to do the right thing, but it broke my heart to read it.
When they reunite, after years apart, you can see how both Evan and Charlie have changed and become better versions of themselves. It was swoony to see the sparks fly between them and I almost applauded when I saw the strength of character that both Charlie and Evan showed.
The flow of this story was perfect, I liked how the passage of time was written, it didn't bog the reader down, and it made the story even more realistic.
I have yet to read a story by Ms. Azzi that I haven't fallen in love with. Healing My Heart is absolutely no exception!
This is the story of Evan and Charlie.
I absolutely admired Charlie! Her self-preservation skills were amazingly honest and real. I so empathized with her and I was cheering her hard. She knew she deserved more and her past has shown her that she deserves it! She is definitely one of my favorite heroines!
Evan, oh my me Evan...I could understand his hesitancy. I admired his strength to do the right thing, but it broke my heart to read it.
When they reunite, after years apart, you can see how both Evan and Charlie have changed and become better versions of themselves. It was swoony to see the sparks fly between them and I almost applauded when I saw the strength of character that both Charlie and Evan showed.
The flow of this story was perfect, I liked how the passage of time was written, it didn't bog the reader down, and it made the story even more realistic.
I have yet to read a story by Ms. Azzi that I haven't fallen in love with. Healing My Heart is absolutely no exception!
December 9, 2020
REVIEW ON MY BLOG
https://www.emilythebooknerd.com/2020...
When I saw that Healing My Heart was a second chance at love story set around Christmas time... I knew that I had to pick it up to try. This was the first book that I had read by Gina Azzi and I absolutely adored her writing style. You can read this book out of the series like I did in no specific order. It is a standalone story. I had no idea it was even a series before requesting the ARC to read.
I loved the two main character's Charlie and Evan. Evan is a single dad and totally swoonable. He comes across Charlie and they instantly hit it off and sparks fly. Only Evan is too afraid to commit to Charlie and get hurt again. This leaves Charlie devasted and she goes back to New York City to pick herself up.
Only then does she comes home for the Christmas holiday to fall back into old patterns with Evan again. Will this second chance at love pan out? Yes, the story was predictable but only at it's best! There are some twists and turns in there that made it more than worth reading. I love how realistic this novel was and Azzi did a great job at that. Healing My Heart put me in the holiday mood and has spurred me to read other Christmas themed romances. I loved the ending of the book because it was nothing short of perfection! YAY for the single dad trope!
https://www.emilythebooknerd.com/2020...
When I saw that Healing My Heart was a second chance at love story set around Christmas time... I knew that I had to pick it up to try. This was the first book that I had read by Gina Azzi and I absolutely adored her writing style. You can read this book out of the series like I did in no specific order. It is a standalone story. I had no idea it was even a series before requesting the ARC to read.
I loved the two main character's Charlie and Evan. Evan is a single dad and totally swoonable. He comes across Charlie and they instantly hit it off and sparks fly. Only Evan is too afraid to commit to Charlie and get hurt again. This leaves Charlie devasted and she goes back to New York City to pick herself up.
Only then does she comes home for the Christmas holiday to fall back into old patterns with Evan again. Will this second chance at love pan out? Yes, the story was predictable but only at it's best! There are some twists and turns in there that made it more than worth reading. I love how realistic this novel was and Azzi did a great job at that. Healing My Heart put me in the holiday mood and has spurred me to read other Christmas themed romances. I loved the ending of the book because it was nothing short of perfection! YAY for the single dad trope!
December 3, 2020
Charlie and Evan... oh how I have longed for this book.
It was everything I hoped it would be and more!
Drama, insecurities, reunions and goodbyes - along with steam, cute kids and other wonderful characters - all combine to give you an emotional, yet fun read that will give you all the warm fuzzies.
I would love to see a follow up on these two (maybe even Harlow as well!) and what lies in store for them. I can't help but feel that we are missing out on some good stuff!
It was everything I hoped it would be and more!
Drama, insecurities, reunions and goodbyes - along with steam, cute kids and other wonderful characters - all combine to give you an emotional, yet fun read that will give you all the warm fuzzies.
I would love to see a follow up on these two (maybe even Harlow as well!) and what lies in store for them. I can't help but feel that we are missing out on some good stuff!
November 23, 2020
Finally Evan and Charlie’s story! I’ve been waiting on this one since almost the beginning of this series! This is a single dad (minus the dad bod!) second chance story with a strong, independent female main character. Right from the start of the book I guessed part of what happens at the end so that was kind of obvious but there were a couple of plot points that were quite surprising having to do with Charlie and Evan’s pasts and present being connected in an unexpected way. If you want more details you better read the book! This was a solid story from the always talented storyteller Gina Azzi! You can certainly read this as a stand-alone but if you do make sure you go back and read the first three books after! Oh btw these covers are absolutely beautiful too! I’ve loved this series in every way and I absolutely can’t wait until her next series!
~Alexis💜
~Alexis💜
November 18, 2020
ARC Review
Charlie and Evan were close in the past, but fate parted their ways and Charlie moved to New York City. Now, three years later, their paths meet again when Charlie goes to back to Chicago for a family visit and decide to stay at least for a month, while waiting for decisions of her job applications.
She decides to help taking care of Evan’s 10-year old son, Ollie. She tries to stay away from Evan as much as it’s possible, but she can’t deny she still has feelings for Evan, and Evan to her has too. She also doesn’t want to get closer because she is unsure of Evan’s feelings towards her.
Soon they decide to give it a try.
They both also have to fight with their pasts that come back soon after Charlie’s coming back to Chicago.
I loved their story. It was cute, sweet and also full of drama and always something was going on.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Charlie and Evan were close in the past, but fate parted their ways and Charlie moved to New York City. Now, three years later, their paths meet again when Charlie goes to back to Chicago for a family visit and decide to stay at least for a month, while waiting for decisions of her job applications.
She decides to help taking care of Evan’s 10-year old son, Ollie. She tries to stay away from Evan as much as it’s possible, but she can’t deny she still has feelings for Evan, and Evan to her has too. She also doesn’t want to get closer because she is unsure of Evan’s feelings towards her.
Soon they decide to give it a try.
They both also have to fight with their pasts that come back soon after Charlie’s coming back to Chicago.
I loved their story. It was cute, sweet and also full of drama and always something was going on.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 19, 2020
I was so glad to read Evan and Charlie’s whole story. Charlie has been best friends with Zoe, Eli’s wife for years. I felt bad that Charlie had gone through some hard times with her father and had made some bad decisions about a guy when she was younger. It was hard to see how much Charlie feels for Evan, but Evan will not get serious with her. Evan’s son loves Charlie. I was glad to see Charlie leave for New York City to get her graduate degree in design. She is back three years later for Christmas and while she looks for a job. I was glad there was an opportunity for Evan and Charlie to get to know each other better now that they are older and in a better place. Ollie is a good kid and gets along great with Charlie. There are other factors that are working against Charlie and Evan that made me so mad at times. I loved their story and strongly encourage you you to read the book. I was given a copy of the book and voluntarily wrote a review.
November 20, 2020
Charlie is my spirit animal. I loved this girl so much.
This story was so sweet. I couldn't put this book down. I needed to know everything about these characters.
This is story of second chances. Of chances missed. Of fulfilling your dreams.
I'm always a sucker for a single parent romance, but this story tugged on my heart strings.
Gina Azzi, had me going from the prologue.
Evan and Charlie are so right for each other and Ollie was totally adorable.
As with all relationships - obstacles occur but you work at it and you overcome it. More importantly, you make new memories after overcoming these obstacles. That is exactly the story of Evan and Charlie.
Charlie and Evan's story gets 💛💜💛💜💛
This story was so sweet. I couldn't put this book down. I needed to know everything about these characters.
This is story of second chances. Of chances missed. Of fulfilling your dreams.
I'm always a sucker for a single parent romance, but this story tugged on my heart strings.
Gina Azzi, had me going from the prologue.
Evan and Charlie are so right for each other and Ollie was totally adorable.
As with all relationships - obstacles occur but you work at it and you overcome it. More importantly, you make new memories after overcoming these obstacles. That is exactly the story of Evan and Charlie.
Charlie and Evan's story gets 💛💜💛💜💛
November 8, 2022
Second chance romances are a favorite of mine. Sprinkle in a single dad, a jerky ex meddling, and the heroine following her dreams. This is an agnsty rollercoaster with riding. Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC.
December 27, 2020
Healing My Heart: A Second Chance Single Dad Romance (Second Chance Chicago Series Book 4) by Gina Azzi.
ARC REVIEW
Evan and Charlie
This is the first book by Gina Azzi I have read, and honestly did not realize it was part of a series. It read as a standalone.
This book brings out all of the feels!
I am definitely #TEAMCHARLIE! I love that she made Evan work for it!
ARC REVIEW
Evan and Charlie
This is the first book by Gina Azzi I have read, and honestly did not realize it was part of a series. It read as a standalone.
This book brings out all of the feels!
I am definitely #TEAMCHARLIE! I love that she made Evan work for it!
February 11, 2023
I had started this series last year, and am finally getting around to finishing it. Charlie and Evan's story is one that I had been anticipating, and it did not disappoint.
They may have started off as FWB, but it was evolving. Feelings were being caught, but the time wasn't right. I was proud of Charlie for following her dreams, leaving Chicago, and finding a new start in New York.
I loved her return trip to Chicago, and how seamlessly she found herself back in familiar settings. I especially enjoyed how much of a bond her and Ollie had built during their short time together.
The addition of Frankie was interesting. I would love to know how everything ended for him, as well as his reaction to the happily ever after that occurred. That man was definitely the villain of this story.
The happily ever after made me happy, and our main characters found their forever.
Gina Azzi continues to pull me in with her writing, and character development. It's one of the many reasons she is an auto buy author for me.
They may have started off as FWB, but it was evolving. Feelings were being caught, but the time wasn't right. I was proud of Charlie for following her dreams, leaving Chicago, and finding a new start in New York.
I loved her return trip to Chicago, and how seamlessly she found herself back in familiar settings. I especially enjoyed how much of a bond her and Ollie had built during their short time together.
The addition of Frankie was interesting. I would love to know how everything ended for him, as well as his reaction to the happily ever after that occurred. That man was definitely the villain of this story.
The happily ever after made me happy, and our main characters found their forever.
Gina Azzi continues to pull me in with her writing, and character development. It's one of the many reasons she is an auto buy author for me.
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