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Second Chances #2
Footsteps of the Past
It was like in the movies: their eyes met from across the room and they fell in love.
Nine years later, Chess and André are the envy of all their friends.
But this is real life….and things are never what they seem.
Still waters run deep—the better to hide Chess’s ugly past. He’s worked hard to bury the troubled teen he once was and is living a life he never imagined possible. André’s love is a gift that makes him believe in second chances, and Chess is grateful for it every day. The only thing he wants is what André finds impossible to give: his time. Six months apart might be the breaking point, even for Chess.
One horrible night changed André’s life forever. Formerly a party boy of the Hamptons social scene, André buries himself in work for years until he meets Chess and learns to enjoy the simple things. He’s tired of being away from home all the time and ready to step down from his role as CEO of the family business, no matter how they try and pull him back in. But old habits die hard…and so do memories.
Photos from the past and present surface, shocking Chess and André out of their carefully constructed dream life. They are forced to face the unthinkable: the love they thought would last a lifetime may be on the brink of falling apart. Secrets are exposed, opening a Pandora’s box both men hoped would stay locked forever. Now Chess and André face the hardest question: do you ever really know the person you’re living with?
Nine years later, Chess and André are the envy of all their friends.
But this is real life….and things are never what they seem.
Still waters run deep—the better to hide Chess’s ugly past. He’s worked hard to bury the troubled teen he once was and is living a life he never imagined possible. André’s love is a gift that makes him believe in second chances, and Chess is grateful for it every day. The only thing he wants is what André finds impossible to give: his time. Six months apart might be the breaking point, even for Chess.
One horrible night changed André’s life forever. Formerly a party boy of the Hamptons social scene, André buries himself in work for years until he meets Chess and learns to enjoy the simple things. He’s tired of being away from home all the time and ready to step down from his role as CEO of the family business, no matter how they try and pull him back in. But old habits die hard…and so do memories.
Photos from the past and present surface, shocking Chess and André out of their carefully constructed dream life. They are forced to face the unthinkable: the love they thought would last a lifetime may be on the brink of falling apart. Secrets are exposed, opening a Pandora’s box both men hoped would stay locked forever. Now Chess and André face the hardest question: do you ever really know the person you’re living with?
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 17, 2021
46 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Felice Stevens
89 books1,716 followersFelice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
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July 22, 2021
Footsteps of the Past is book two in the Second Chances series by Felice Stevens. This is Chess and Andre’s story.
We met Chester (Chess) Braxton in the first book, The List, as one of a group of four best friends, all gay, all met in college and have been friends ever since. All very present in each other’s lives. Chess was the only one who had been in a long term, committed relationship, for nine years! The others view Chess and Andre’ as what to strive for, a loving relationship, the picture perfect life. But, both Chess and Andre’ have kept secrets. Both have things buried in their pasts they never want to surface.
Chess’s childhood took a drastic turn for the worse in his early teens. As a result, he did things to survive that he is ashamed of, that he has never told anyone. Not Andre’ or his three best friends. Chess is convinced that if Andre’ ever found out, that would be the end of their relationship. Andre’ is everything to him. The love they share is everything he ever dreamed of. Except for the fact that Andre’ is a workaholic. He wishes that he would slow down so they would have more time together.
Andre’ Webster is the oldest of three children in the well known Webster family. They own a string of boutique luxury hotels. Andre’ also has secrets he has kept from Chess. The only way he has to deal with it is throwing himself into work. But, his responsibilities require him to travel, sometimes for long periods of time. This last one has kept him away from the man he loves for six months. Andre’ is tired. He’s ready to step away from the business and concentrate on his relationship. He loves Chess with everything that he is. Only, his mother doesn’t seem on board with this decision.
“Everything I am is yours. Every part of me, especially my heart.”
It’s a funny thing about secrets kept buried in the past. They have a way of digging their way out. For both of these men, that is exactly what happened. Finally sharing the pain they have carried all these years can either make them stronger, or tear them apart.
These two really did share a beautiful love. I can’t imagine having my partner in life away so much. Perhaps the frequent absences are what made it so easy for them both to keep so much of themselves hidden. I loved seeing how freeing it was for both of them to finally share what they most feared. I mentioned this in my review of the first book but I also dearly love the friendship between the four men. They do seem to overshare a bit! But they are each other’s family. And what I love the most is when one of them is threatened in any way, the others literally surround him without even thinking about it. They are a force, they love each other and protect each other.
This is sweet, witty, sexy and lots and lots of feels. The ending was beautiful. Now, I am looking forward to the third book in the series, Spencer and Wolf’s book.
“Are you ready for forever?”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
We met Chester (Chess) Braxton in the first book, The List, as one of a group of four best friends, all gay, all met in college and have been friends ever since. All very present in each other’s lives. Chess was the only one who had been in a long term, committed relationship, for nine years! The others view Chess and Andre’ as what to strive for, a loving relationship, the picture perfect life. But, both Chess and Andre’ have kept secrets. Both have things buried in their pasts they never want to surface.
Chess’s childhood took a drastic turn for the worse in his early teens. As a result, he did things to survive that he is ashamed of, that he has never told anyone. Not Andre’ or his three best friends. Chess is convinced that if Andre’ ever found out, that would be the end of their relationship. Andre’ is everything to him. The love they share is everything he ever dreamed of. Except for the fact that Andre’ is a workaholic. He wishes that he would slow down so they would have more time together.
Andre’ Webster is the oldest of three children in the well known Webster family. They own a string of boutique luxury hotels. Andre’ also has secrets he has kept from Chess. The only way he has to deal with it is throwing himself into work. But, his responsibilities require him to travel, sometimes for long periods of time. This last one has kept him away from the man he loves for six months. Andre’ is tired. He’s ready to step away from the business and concentrate on his relationship. He loves Chess with everything that he is. Only, his mother doesn’t seem on board with this decision.
“Everything I am is yours. Every part of me, especially my heart.”
It’s a funny thing about secrets kept buried in the past. They have a way of digging their way out. For both of these men, that is exactly what happened. Finally sharing the pain they have carried all these years can either make them stronger, or tear them apart.
These two really did share a beautiful love. I can’t imagine having my partner in life away so much. Perhaps the frequent absences are what made it so easy for them both to keep so much of themselves hidden. I loved seeing how freeing it was for both of them to finally share what they most feared. I mentioned this in my review of the first book but I also dearly love the friendship between the four men. They do seem to overshare a bit! But they are each other’s family. And what I love the most is when one of them is threatened in any way, the others literally surround him without even thinking about it. They are a force, they love each other and protect each other.
This is sweet, witty, sexy and lots and lots of feels. The ending was beautiful. Now, I am looking forward to the third book in the series, Spencer and Wolf’s book.
“Are you ready for forever?”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
July 16, 2021
Chess and André are #RelationshipGoals to all of their friends. After 9 years together they are just as in love as ever, although André's constant travelling for work is taking a toll on both of them, it's nothing they can't get through. The one thing they don't expect is for their pasts to come back and threaten what they have built. Both men have secrets that they haven't shared with the other. Each have been traumatized and carry guilt and shame, so much so that they wonder if the other would see them differently if they knew.
I enjoy stories about established couples, even though they can be tough to find. While this story is set firmly in the present, we get flashbacks to the important moments in their lives - when they meet, their first date, etc. - so we get to know them well and appreciate the love they have. They come from very different backgrounds, but work so well together, I just adored them. They still have that passion for each other that comes through on the page and I was rooting for them the whole time. Win and Elliot from The List make an appearance and the tension between Spencer and Wolf continued to ratchet up here making me REALLY want to know what is happening there.
Chess and André sort through family obligations and expectations, exes appearing out of nowhere and their own insecurities to make peace with the parts of themselves they tried to leave behind. The story is emotional, sweet and romantic with an exceptional HEA.
I enjoy stories about established couples, even though they can be tough to find. While this story is set firmly in the present, we get flashbacks to the important moments in their lives - when they meet, their first date, etc. - so we get to know them well and appreciate the love they have. They come from very different backgrounds, but work so well together, I just adored them. They still have that passion for each other that comes through on the page and I was rooting for them the whole time. Win and Elliot from The List make an appearance and the tension between Spencer and Wolf continued to ratchet up here making me REALLY want to know what is happening there.
Chess and André sort through family obligations and expectations, exes appearing out of nowhere and their own insecurities to make peace with the parts of themselves they tried to leave behind. The story is emotional, sweet and romantic with an exceptional HEA.
March 28, 2024
I had high hopes for this series after loving the first book to pieces, but sadly it didn't really work out. It took me forever to get in to Chess and André's story. Like, I was unsure if I would be able to finish it for the first 60% of the book. However, those last 40% were beautiful. So I'm glad that I actually got through it. I absolutely loved the ending. It was beautiful.
This book wouldn't have been a book if these two just talked to each other. It would've been problem solved and done. I had a really hard time believing that they had been together for NINE years and never talked about some of the most important and heartbreaking parts of their lives. Nine years is a really long time caring secrets of that calibre around without having them take a major toll on the relationship.
Let's hope that the third book can bring the series to a nice closure.
Reread March 2024 and I'm adding a star, having enjoyed it much much more than before.
This book wouldn't have been a book if these two just talked to each other. It would've been problem solved and done. I had a really hard time believing that they had been together for NINE years and never talked about some of the most important and heartbreaking parts of their lives. Nine years is a really long time caring secrets of that calibre around without having them take a major toll on the relationship.
Let's hope that the third book can bring the series to a nice closure.
Reread March 2024 and I'm adding a star, having enjoyed it much much more than before.
July 23, 2021
I've given this a B- at AAR, so 3.5 stars rounded up.
The first book in Felice Stevens’ new Second Chances series of contemporary romances - The List - introduced readers to Elliot, Spencer, Wolf and Chess, four men in their mid-thirties who have been best friends since their college days. Footsteps of the Past is book two, and although it’s probably not essential to have read The List before it, that book sets up the group dynamic and establishes their very different personalities as well as containing a sweet, sexy romance. Of the four friends, only one of them – Chess Braxton – is in a relationship when we first meet them all; Elliot is a hopeless romantic, Spencer is a self-confessed and unrepentant manwhore, and Wolf is taciturn and very reserved (these two take delight in needling one another and strike sparks off each other like nobody’s business). Elliot got his HEA in The List; Footsteps of the Past is an angsty, relationship-in-trouble story featuring Chess – a university professor - and his long-term partner, André Webster, the CEO of an international, multi-million dollar corporation.
Their friends have long looked upon Chess and André as the perfect couple - #relationshipgoals. They’ve been together for almost nine years and are as much in love now as ever, but over the past couple of years, things have begun to become a bit strained due to the fact that André has taken on all the responsibilities involved in the running of Webster Properties since his father’s death and is spending more and more time away from home. When Footsteps opens, André has been away for six months, but while he misses Chess terribly, it’s hard for him to step back from the job, especially as his mother is depending on him so much and he knows how many employees are relying on him, too. But he’s reached the point where he knows something’s got to give and, determined that that something is not going to be his relationship with Chess, André tells his mother that as the bulk of what he’s been working on is done, he needs a break and he’s returning home to New York. To say she’s not pleased is an understatement.
Meanwhile, André’s prolonged absence has been difficult for Chess, not only because he’s missed him but also because it’s allowed all sorts of long-buried doubts and insecurities to creep back in to his psyche. And when, just before André is due to return home, Chess is tagged in a post on Instagram (which subsequently disappears) showing photos of André kissing another man… well, those insecurities are only intensified. Chess wavers between his deep down certainty that André would never cheat on him and wondering whether life with a mere university professor has become dull for a sophisticated, wealthy businessman like André… and even worse are those niggling whispers at the back of his mind telling Chess that if André were ever to know the truth of his past, he’d leave without a second thought.
You can read the rest of this review at All About Romance.
The first book in Felice Stevens’ new Second Chances series of contemporary romances - The List - introduced readers to Elliot, Spencer, Wolf and Chess, four men in their mid-thirties who have been best friends since their college days. Footsteps of the Past is book two, and although it’s probably not essential to have read The List before it, that book sets up the group dynamic and establishes their very different personalities as well as containing a sweet, sexy romance. Of the four friends, only one of them – Chess Braxton – is in a relationship when we first meet them all; Elliot is a hopeless romantic, Spencer is a self-confessed and unrepentant manwhore, and Wolf is taciturn and very reserved (these two take delight in needling one another and strike sparks off each other like nobody’s business). Elliot got his HEA in The List; Footsteps of the Past is an angsty, relationship-in-trouble story featuring Chess – a university professor - and his long-term partner, André Webster, the CEO of an international, multi-million dollar corporation.
Their friends have long looked upon Chess and André as the perfect couple - #relationshipgoals. They’ve been together for almost nine years and are as much in love now as ever, but over the past couple of years, things have begun to become a bit strained due to the fact that André has taken on all the responsibilities involved in the running of Webster Properties since his father’s death and is spending more and more time away from home. When Footsteps opens, André has been away for six months, but while he misses Chess terribly, it’s hard for him to step back from the job, especially as his mother is depending on him so much and he knows how many employees are relying on him, too. But he’s reached the point where he knows something’s got to give and, determined that that something is not going to be his relationship with Chess, André tells his mother that as the bulk of what he’s been working on is done, he needs a break and he’s returning home to New York. To say she’s not pleased is an understatement.
Meanwhile, André’s prolonged absence has been difficult for Chess, not only because he’s missed him but also because it’s allowed all sorts of long-buried doubts and insecurities to creep back in to his psyche. And when, just before André is due to return home, Chess is tagged in a post on Instagram (which subsequently disappears) showing photos of André kissing another man… well, those insecurities are only intensified. Chess wavers between his deep down certainty that André would never cheat on him and wondering whether life with a mere university professor has become dull for a sophisticated, wealthy businessman like André… and even worse are those niggling whispers at the back of his mind telling Chess that if André were ever to know the truth of his past, he’d leave without a second thought.
You can read the rest of this review at All About Romance.
July 26, 2021
3.5 stars
In Footsteps of the Past author Felice Stevens tackles the relationship of long time committed couple (9 years) when cracks begin testing their trust and doubt seeps in. This was a good story despite for me the overabundance of angst and the feeling throughout that the other shoe was about to drop and break them apart. I’m not a fan of secrets and both men were guilty of keeping some whoppers from one another despite them being together for so long. For me that would have been a red flag in a relationship, I understand a new couple not sharing everything up front but after several years and when they’ve lived together for awhile…I personally had a really hard time believing that they’d become so serious without sharing their painful pasts and the events that made them into the men they are today. I liked both Andre and Chess a lot and feel they are both good men and good for one another, and honestly I could even understand Chess’s hesitation, but Andre wasn’t upfront in the here and now with Chess and that bothered me a lot.
Things I did love about this book were Andre’s siblings love for Chess and Chess’s group of friends who in reality are his brothers not only being there for him but wrapping Andre into their fold. I admired them both for their ability to forgive and move forward and they way they discussed things rationally even when they were both shaken by the information they were presented with. It proved they were solid, the love they shared was deep, and they loved unconditionally.
Through flashbacks we gain more perspective of these men, the incidents that shaped them and how they moved forward and while I’m not a fan of flashbacks, they were necessary to understand the characters and their motivations. I’m never a fan of drama with exes so I grew weary of that quickly in this book.
I liked that we got to see Chess and Andre’s beginning and the deepness to their relationship, but the secrets, lies, and drama kept me from loving this book. That being said, I’m sure it will be perfect for people who like angst and drama, that’s just not for me.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
In Footsteps of the Past author Felice Stevens tackles the relationship of long time committed couple (9 years) when cracks begin testing their trust and doubt seeps in. This was a good story despite for me the overabundance of angst and the feeling throughout that the other shoe was about to drop and break them apart. I’m not a fan of secrets and both men were guilty of keeping some whoppers from one another despite them being together for so long. For me that would have been a red flag in a relationship, I understand a new couple not sharing everything up front but after several years and when they’ve lived together for awhile…I personally had a really hard time believing that they’d become so serious without sharing their painful pasts and the events that made them into the men they are today. I liked both Andre and Chess a lot and feel they are both good men and good for one another, and honestly I could even understand Chess’s hesitation, but Andre wasn’t upfront in the here and now with Chess and that bothered me a lot.
Things I did love about this book were Andre’s siblings love for Chess and Chess’s group of friends who in reality are his brothers not only being there for him but wrapping Andre into their fold. I admired them both for their ability to forgive and move forward and they way they discussed things rationally even when they were both shaken by the information they were presented with. It proved they were solid, the love they shared was deep, and they loved unconditionally.
Through flashbacks we gain more perspective of these men, the incidents that shaped them and how they moved forward and while I’m not a fan of flashbacks, they were necessary to understand the characters and their motivations. I’m never a fan of drama with exes so I grew weary of that quickly in this book.
I liked that we got to see Chess and Andre’s beginning and the deepness to their relationship, but the secrets, lies, and drama kept me from loving this book. That being said, I’m sure it will be perfect for people who like angst and drama, that’s just not for me.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
November 14, 2023
This story follows a couple that is already established. Andre and Chess basically fell in love at first sight at the event and have been together for nine years. Their friends consider them an example of the perfect couple, but the past that Chess was trying so hard to leave behind comes back to question wether or not he deserves a man like Andre…
There was so much love in here. Enough to reassure your partner that the past doesn’t have to define you, especially if you’re not responsible for it. It’s a grownup romance, and I loved every second of it.
There was so much love in here. Enough to reassure your partner that the past doesn’t have to define you, especially if you’re not responsible for it. It’s a grownup romance, and I loved every second of it.
July 22, 2021
4 original stars downgraded to 3
I usually enjoy this author, and so far this series. However, there were some issues for me in this story. How in the world did this couple stay together for 9 years without knowing anything about each other. They didn't even have the basic family info about each other. They barely talked about former relationships, or really the past at all. I'm all for looking towards the future, but this couple took it to ridiculous degrees. OMG! Andre's mother was a full on bitch. If my mother ever treated my husband or me this way I would've changed my number and locks. Once again we have an adult man (who's loaded by the way, which makes it worse) being bossed around by a controlling and uptight mother. Don't even get me started on the ex boyfriend, Kyle!! What a complete and utter waste of space. I hope the next book is better, and I have high hopes.
I usually enjoy this author, and so far this series. However, there were some issues for me in this story. How in the world did this couple stay together for 9 years without knowing anything about each other. They didn't even have the basic family info about each other. They barely talked about former relationships, or really the past at all. I'm all for looking towards the future, but this couple took it to ridiculous degrees. OMG! Andre's mother was a full on bitch. If my mother ever treated my husband or me this way I would've changed my number and locks. Once again we have an adult man (who's loaded by the way, which makes it worse) being bossed around by a controlling and uptight mother. Don't even get me started on the ex boyfriend, Kyle!! What a complete and utter waste of space. I hope the next book is better, and I have high hopes.
July 11, 2021
Prepare to have your heart breaking reading about André and Chester. Felice tortured them mercilessly, broke my heart and cursed a lot, wanted to jump into the book and kill some people.
André and Chess had to walked the hard way to reach their happy endings.
Footsteps of the Past was a heartbreaking yet a heartwarming story about true love, and the best friendship in the world presented by Spencer, Wolf, Elliot and Chester.
I cried a lot, angry over someone (or two someones), afraid to open a next chapter, but I needed a closure.
Chess and André made people jealous of their 'stable' relationship, but after some layers opened, we will know that, they're not that perfect.
But André and Chess are perfect for each other.
Things about Felice's stories is, even they learned the hard way, it's always a happy endings in the end.
All the love André and Chess.
One of the most intense from Felice so far, so prepare for a heartache before a happy endings.
Now I need Spencer and Wolf ASAP!
Highly recommend ❤️✅
André and Chess had to walked the hard way to reach their happy endings.
Footsteps of the Past was a heartbreaking yet a heartwarming story about true love, and the best friendship in the world presented by Spencer, Wolf, Elliot and Chester.
I cried a lot, angry over someone (or two someones), afraid to open a next chapter, but I needed a closure.
Chess and André made people jealous of their 'stable' relationship, but after some layers opened, we will know that, they're not that perfect.
But André and Chess are perfect for each other.
Things about Felice's stories is, even they learned the hard way, it's always a happy endings in the end.
All the love André and Chess.
One of the most intense from Felice so far, so prepare for a heartache before a happy endings.
Now I need Spencer and Wolf ASAP!
Highly recommend ❤️✅
July 12, 2021
The journey between Chess and Andre was really interesting because their connection was already established and their story begins 9 years into their relationship. Yes, we know this from the blurb, I just don't read many love stories where the MC's are already past the initial get to know you phase. I really appreciated this POV, as even the most solid relationships can encounter bumps in the road. We did get snippets of their past and how they met, but their love story focused on what happens when from the outside you and your partner are "relationship goals" to everyone else. Things aren't always as they seem.
Felice paints a beautiful picture of a couple wildly in love, but even so, events from their past still weigh heavily on Chess and Andre. Nine years seems like a long time not to divulge details of their youth, but insecurity can take hold on even the strongest of relationships. I loved their steadfast devotion to one another as their romance continued. The I Love You's and schmoopy looks didn't get old, they were sweet and sexy together.
I would recommend reading The List first. The college friends in this series are great, they're like family you'd love to have in your life ❤️
Felice paints a beautiful picture of a couple wildly in love, but even so, events from their past still weigh heavily on Chess and Andre. Nine years seems like a long time not to divulge details of their youth, but insecurity can take hold on even the strongest of relationships. I loved their steadfast devotion to one another as their romance continued. The I Love You's and schmoopy looks didn't get old, they were sweet and sexy together.
I would recommend reading The List first. The college friends in this series are great, they're like family you'd love to have in your life ❤️
July 21, 2021
Felice Stevens started her new Second Chances Series off with a bang. I fell madly in love with book 1, The List. Elliot and Win are now favorites of mine. Their story revolved around Elliot’s college friends, who are like brothers now. The crew consists of Elliot, Chess, Spencer and Wolf. I found myself so intrigued by all of them. I could not wait to get their stories.
In book 2, Footsteps of the Past, we get into Spencer and André's world. They are an established couple. Who have been blissfully happy for 9 years. Everyone's relationships goals were based around them. They were picture perfect... or were they?!
In their book, we come to learn secrets of the past can come back to haunt us! Both Chess and André haven't been fully honest with each other... And it seems the guilt and shame from their past is tarnishing what they have built. I felt so much for them. They were beyond sweet and loving towards each other. Soooo many tender and sincere moments between them. It all had me swooning like a loon.... and when they made love. Just wow!
Chess had been walking around for years feeling unworthy of the happiness he now has in his life.....
When his heart-stopping past was finally revealed, I literally hurt for him. What he endured would have broken most people, but he rose above it and bettered himself. Although, many years have passed, he still couldn't shake the insecure feelings that plagued him. Many questions swirled....
Would André still love him if he knew about his tarnished past? Should he come clean? I just wanted Chess to have trust in André and TALK TO HIM... But his reasoning was understandable. (We all have things we would like to keep buried!) Oh the drama!!
Even the most solid relationships have cracks and flaws... Chess and André were put the test and their love prevailed! I was overjoyed with how their unconditional love story played out.
As for these rest of the friends, they continued to be supportive and loving. I enjoyed getting to know each of them even better in this book. It was nice to see how happy Elliot and Win still were and how much closer they had become.
I think Felice may have saved the best for last, Spencer and Wolf are up next. I have a feeling this is going to be a fun ride!
In book 2, Footsteps of the Past, we get into Spencer and André's world. They are an established couple. Who have been blissfully happy for 9 years. Everyone's relationships goals were based around them. They were picture perfect... or were they?!
In their book, we come to learn secrets of the past can come back to haunt us! Both Chess and André haven't been fully honest with each other... And it seems the guilt and shame from their past is tarnishing what they have built. I felt so much for them. They were beyond sweet and loving towards each other. Soooo many tender and sincere moments between them. It all had me swooning like a loon.... and when they made love. Just wow!
Chess had been walking around for years feeling unworthy of the happiness he now has in his life.....
When his heart-stopping past was finally revealed, I literally hurt for him. What he endured would have broken most people, but he rose above it and bettered himself. Although, many years have passed, he still couldn't shake the insecure feelings that plagued him. Many questions swirled....
Would André still love him if he knew about his tarnished past? Should he come clean? I just wanted Chess to have trust in André and TALK TO HIM... But his reasoning was understandable. (We all have things we would like to keep buried!) Oh the drama!!
Even the most solid relationships have cracks and flaws... Chess and André were put the test and their love prevailed! I was overjoyed with how their unconditional love story played out.
As for these rest of the friends, they continued to be supportive and loving. I enjoyed getting to know each of them even better in this book. It was nice to see how happy Elliot and Win still were and how much closer they had become.
I think Felice may have saved the best for last, Spencer and Wolf are up next. I have a feeling this is going to be a fun ride!
July 21, 2021
A drawn out story
How many times can you say I love you in a story? Many if you go by this story.
The thing that got me was Andre kissing another man (so cheated on Chess) was written of by saying he was drunk it was not his fault but Dawson killing himself while driving drunk was written of by saying he made his decision, he knew what he was doing!!!!!! REALLY.
Good story about the need to be honest but Andre cheated no matter if he was drunk or not and it was kind of dismissed.
But loved the first book and really looking forward to the next one.
How many times can you say I love you in a story? Many if you go by this story.
The thing that got me was Andre kissing another man (so cheated on Chess) was written of by saying he was drunk it was not his fault but Dawson killing himself while driving drunk was written of by saying he made his decision, he knew what he was doing!!!!!! REALLY.
Good story about the need to be honest but Andre cheated no matter if he was drunk or not and it was kind of dismissed.
But loved the first book and really looking forward to the next one.
August 17, 2021
💜
4.5 stars!
I seriously love this series! IMO Chess and Andre’s story has less angst than Elliot and Win. I do recommend that you read the series in order because the characters are intertwined with one another.
4.5 stars!
I seriously love this series! IMO Chess and Andre’s story has less angst than Elliot and Win. I do recommend that you read the series in order because the characters are intertwined with one another.
July 23, 2021
After reading “The List,” my curiosity was piqued by Chess and André. Though Elliot looks up to them, views them as "relationship goals," clearly there were going to be chinks in their armor.
And WOW. Once again, Felice Stevens shows her writing skill in spades here, reminding me of why I will read anything this author writes. Guaranteed HEAs and schmoopy romance (which I absolutely love) aside, this author deals with real issues, things that run deep and cause pain. She did an amazing job of portraying their real-life problems—stuff that can break a couple up. Chess's secrets were deep, dark, and painful; and in André's case he was weighed down by guilt. No two ways about it, these guys were walking around with some serious baggage.
I loved the flashbacks and learning how they met and fell in love, and that also helped me understand why they were both so afraid to open up to one another. But Chess and André talked a lot/communicated, and eventually worked through everything, difficult as it was, even with the detractors in their midst (grrrr Mom and Kyle).
I could see their love for each other even as I felt their pain (my poor heart!). They were beautiful and romantic and pretty much just made me swoon; every couple who’s been together for nine years should be like this. They showed that if you work hard enough, you can make it through the most difficult of times, and yes, they are now "relationship goals."
My heart is happy because they have their HEA (schmoopy love declarations and all), and I got to see the rest of the guys. Felice even gave some teases about our last remaining couple, which, of course, made me want them even more. Gimme Spencer and Wolf, now, dammit!
And WOW. Once again, Felice Stevens shows her writing skill in spades here, reminding me of why I will read anything this author writes. Guaranteed HEAs and schmoopy romance (which I absolutely love) aside, this author deals with real issues, things that run deep and cause pain. She did an amazing job of portraying their real-life problems—stuff that can break a couple up. Chess's secrets were deep, dark, and painful; and in André's case he was weighed down by guilt. No two ways about it, these guys were walking around with some serious baggage.
I loved the flashbacks and learning how they met and fell in love, and that also helped me understand why they were both so afraid to open up to one another. But Chess and André talked a lot/communicated, and eventually worked through everything, difficult as it was, even with the detractors in their midst (grrrr Mom and Kyle).
I could see their love for each other even as I felt their pain (my poor heart!). They were beautiful and romantic and pretty much just made me swoon; every couple who’s been together for nine years should be like this. They showed that if you work hard enough, you can make it through the most difficult of times, and yes, they are now "relationship goals."
My heart is happy because they have their HEA (schmoopy love declarations and all), and I got to see the rest of the guys. Felice even gave some teases about our last remaining couple, which, of course, made me want them even more. Gimme Spencer and Wolf, now, dammit!
July 11, 2021
This is the second book in the series, and while it reads just fine as a stand alone, reading the first book very much gives a better sense of the two MCs as well as their friends (who appear a great deal in this one).
Chess and Andre have been happily together for 9 years when cracks start to appear in their relationship. The way these cracks appear made for some highly emotional scenes, and there were times I wanted to yell at the MCs to just TALK. But their reasons for putting off difficult conversations were sound, making all the feelings that much more intense.
Of the 4 men introduced in the first book, Chess intrigued me the least, and he and Andre are less engaging than most MCs from this author’s books. That said, I enjoyed reading a story about “next steps” in a love story - the stuff that happens when everyone thinks nothing much can happen anymore because the couple has achieved relationship goals. The “perfect romance” can be even better after the cracks get filled.
I received a copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review.
Chess and Andre have been happily together for 9 years when cracks start to appear in their relationship. The way these cracks appear made for some highly emotional scenes, and there were times I wanted to yell at the MCs to just TALK. But their reasons for putting off difficult conversations were sound, making all the feelings that much more intense.
Of the 4 men introduced in the first book, Chess intrigued me the least, and he and Andre are less engaging than most MCs from this author’s books. That said, I enjoyed reading a story about “next steps” in a love story - the stuff that happens when everyone thinks nothing much can happen anymore because the couple has achieved relationship goals. The “perfect romance” can be even better after the cracks get filled.
I received a copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review.
August 7, 2021
I'm loving this new series. The first book was so much fun to read. Elliot and Win were adorable and I'm dying for Spencer and Wolf's book. Those guys are going to be explosive. Chess and Andre have always looked like the perfect couple. In Footsteps, we find out that they aren't so perfect after all. Not only have they been hiding things from each other but suddenly, someone is trying very hard to come between them.
I really liked getting to know Chess and Andre better. It's refreshing to read about an established couple. I liked how their history was threaded throughout their current story. I didn't like that they were both hiding things from each other but I loved that Andre was finally making an effort to balance his work life and his time with Chess. Although, I think he should have prioritized Chess much sooner. I did like how romantic and sweet he could be. I just wanted him to be more assertive with his mother and Kyle.
Which brings me to how much I hated Kyle and Mommy Dearest. Kyle was the sleaziest scumball imaginable. I hated him at first sight and spent a lot of time wanting to scratch his eyes out. As for Mommy Dearest, she disgusted me. The way she kept trying to manipulate Andre made me so mad. I couldn't wait for him to finally put his foot down with her.
On the flip side of that, Chess's friends are the best. I love the way they all come together for each other but when they stood up for Chess, it brought tears to my eyes. What a beautiful moment.
I can't wait for more of these guys.
I really liked getting to know Chess and Andre better. It's refreshing to read about an established couple. I liked how their history was threaded throughout their current story. I didn't like that they were both hiding things from each other but I loved that Andre was finally making an effort to balance his work life and his time with Chess. Although, I think he should have prioritized Chess much sooner. I did like how romantic and sweet he could be. I just wanted him to be more assertive with his mother and Kyle.
Which brings me to how much I hated Kyle and Mommy Dearest. Kyle was the sleaziest scumball imaginable. I hated him at first sight and spent a lot of time wanting to scratch his eyes out. As for Mommy Dearest, she disgusted me. The way she kept trying to manipulate Andre made me so mad. I couldn't wait for him to finally put his foot down with her.
On the flip side of that, Chess's friends are the best. I love the way they all come together for each other but when they stood up for Chess, it brought tears to my eyes. What a beautiful moment.
I can't wait for more of these guys.
January 19, 2023
Iris Brown - per RFS
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Recensione senza spoiler
Basta uno sguardo ad André e Chess per innamorarsi. Un solo attimo e le vite di entrambi cambiano completamente. Si incontrano a un evento universitario. Chess è lì per completare un dottorato di ricerca che gli permetterà di diventare professore di storia e, alla festa, scambia André per un cameriere. Lui sta al gioco, perché quel ragazzo è la sola nota di luce in una serata noiosissima. L’uomo in realtà è l’erede di una facoltosa famiglia ed è anche uno degli amministratori fiduciari dell’università. Dopo poche parole scambiate tra quella folla che per entrambi, una volta incrociati gli sguardi, non esiste più, vanno via insieme.
“Ho la sensazione che sarai l’ultimo uomo a cui chiederò un appuntamento.”
L’insinuazione nelle sue parole sconvolse Chess, che senza proteste permise ad André di prenderlo per mano e accompagnarlo fuori dalla porta. Salirono nella limousine che attendeva, e Chess era perfettamente consapevole che stringeva ancora la mano di André.
Da quella sera sono trascorsi nove anni che li hanno visti completamente innamorati l’uno dell’altro, anche se la distanza geografica è stata spesso difficile da sopportare. Il lavoro li ha divisi per ben sei mesi, con André in Svizzera a occuparsi degli affari di famiglia, e Chess a New York, nella loro casa che, con l’assenza del compagno è sempre più fredda e triste. Quando André riesce finalmente a tornarvi, i due partono per una vacanza che dovrebbe essere il preludio di una felicità assoluta. Ma entrambi celano segreti e tormenti nel cuore. Chess ha avuto una vita difficile: abbandonato dal padre e con la madre morta di overdose quando era ancora un ragazzino, ha dovuto affrontare momenti difficili e sofferti. Sì è buttato tra le braccia di chiunque, per necessità a volte, e non si è mai legato a nessuno… prima di incontrare André.
Nella sua vita Chess non aveva fatto altro che avere rapporti puramente carnali con un uomo. Non c’erano mai state conversazioni su speranze e sogni perché lui non ne aveva. Era facile perdersi nel desiderio e nel sesso. Chiudere gli occhi e lasciare che il dolore svanisse con quel piacere momentaneo. Non sarebbe stato possibile con un uomo come André Webster, che con quegli occhi penetranti attraversò le barriere che si era costruito attorno e trovò un luogo che nessun altro era riuscito a raggiungere.
André è un uomo ricco, che negli anni non ha disdegnato affatto la bella vita e gli eccessi, in tutti i sensi, fino a che un tragico incidente gli ha strappato il suo migliore amico e, da quel momento, è cambiato. Si è dedicato anima e corpo al lavoro ma, da quando c’è Chess nella sua vita, è tornata la luce, la speranza, la felicità.
Fin dal primo momento aveva capito che Chess sarebbe stato l’uomo con cui avrebbe trascorso il resto della vita. Forse era stata la luce nei suoi occhi o il sorriso dolce. Aveva solamente capito che con Chess non ci sarebbero stati sotterfugi né secondi fini. Parlava con il cuore in mano. E gli anni trascorsi insieme gli avevano dato ragione…ogni giorno con Chess era un’altra giornata all’insegna dell’amore.
La loro felicità è però in pericolo a causa di quello che entrambi non hanno il coraggio di confessare all’altro del proprio passato e, anche di qualcuno che trama nell’ombra per separarli. La narrazione alterna il presente con flashback del passato con cui veniamo a conoscenza di eventi significativi della vita di André e Chess. Una narrazione appassionante e, attraverso i pov alternati, ci apre il cuore dei protagonisti, ci fa conoscere pensieri, paure e sentimenti di due uomini che vivono di paure e rimpianti ma anche di un amore assoluto che sperano possa bastare per superare tutti gli ostacoli, le omissioni, che ne oscurano la felicità. Ho amato la storia, l’impronta tormentata e i protagonisti così imperfetti, inquieti, angosciati ma totalmente limpidi nell’amore che provano. Belle le atmosfere sofisticate che li circondano e i vari personaggi che li affiancano. I momenti tra loro sono teneri, dolci e molto appassionati.
“Quella sera, quando mi hai guardato, ho visto la tua anima e mi ha parlato. Ho visto noi due riflessi nei tuoi occhi, e tutto il resto è svanito. Sei sempre stato tu.”
Un perfetto connubio tra romanticismo, scene hot molto seducenti, intrighi, momenti malinconici e travagliati e dialoghi smaglianti, per un second chance romance intrigante e scritto magnificamente.
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Recensione senza spoiler
Basta uno sguardo ad André e Chess per innamorarsi. Un solo attimo e le vite di entrambi cambiano completamente. Si incontrano a un evento universitario. Chess è lì per completare un dottorato di ricerca che gli permetterà di diventare professore di storia e, alla festa, scambia André per un cameriere. Lui sta al gioco, perché quel ragazzo è la sola nota di luce in una serata noiosissima. L’uomo in realtà è l’erede di una facoltosa famiglia ed è anche uno degli amministratori fiduciari dell’università. Dopo poche parole scambiate tra quella folla che per entrambi, una volta incrociati gli sguardi, non esiste più, vanno via insieme.
“Ho la sensazione che sarai l’ultimo uomo a cui chiederò un appuntamento.”
L’insinuazione nelle sue parole sconvolse Chess, che senza proteste permise ad André di prenderlo per mano e accompagnarlo fuori dalla porta. Salirono nella limousine che attendeva, e Chess era perfettamente consapevole che stringeva ancora la mano di André.
Da quella sera sono trascorsi nove anni che li hanno visti completamente innamorati l’uno dell’altro, anche se la distanza geografica è stata spesso difficile da sopportare. Il lavoro li ha divisi per ben sei mesi, con André in Svizzera a occuparsi degli affari di famiglia, e Chess a New York, nella loro casa che, con l’assenza del compagno è sempre più fredda e triste. Quando André riesce finalmente a tornarvi, i due partono per una vacanza che dovrebbe essere il preludio di una felicità assoluta. Ma entrambi celano segreti e tormenti nel cuore. Chess ha avuto una vita difficile: abbandonato dal padre e con la madre morta di overdose quando era ancora un ragazzino, ha dovuto affrontare momenti difficili e sofferti. Sì è buttato tra le braccia di chiunque, per necessità a volte, e non si è mai legato a nessuno… prima di incontrare André.
Nella sua vita Chess non aveva fatto altro che avere rapporti puramente carnali con un uomo. Non c’erano mai state conversazioni su speranze e sogni perché lui non ne aveva. Era facile perdersi nel desiderio e nel sesso. Chiudere gli occhi e lasciare che il dolore svanisse con quel piacere momentaneo. Non sarebbe stato possibile con un uomo come André Webster, che con quegli occhi penetranti attraversò le barriere che si era costruito attorno e trovò un luogo che nessun altro era riuscito a raggiungere.
André è un uomo ricco, che negli anni non ha disdegnato affatto la bella vita e gli eccessi, in tutti i sensi, fino a che un tragico incidente gli ha strappato il suo migliore amico e, da quel momento, è cambiato. Si è dedicato anima e corpo al lavoro ma, da quando c’è Chess nella sua vita, è tornata la luce, la speranza, la felicità.
Fin dal primo momento aveva capito che Chess sarebbe stato l’uomo con cui avrebbe trascorso il resto della vita. Forse era stata la luce nei suoi occhi o il sorriso dolce. Aveva solamente capito che con Chess non ci sarebbero stati sotterfugi né secondi fini. Parlava con il cuore in mano. E gli anni trascorsi insieme gli avevano dato ragione…ogni giorno con Chess era un’altra giornata all’insegna dell’amore.
La loro felicità è però in pericolo a causa di quello che entrambi non hanno il coraggio di confessare all’altro del proprio passato e, anche di qualcuno che trama nell’ombra per separarli. La narrazione alterna il presente con flashback del passato con cui veniamo a conoscenza di eventi significativi della vita di André e Chess. Una narrazione appassionante e, attraverso i pov alternati, ci apre il cuore dei protagonisti, ci fa conoscere pensieri, paure e sentimenti di due uomini che vivono di paure e rimpianti ma anche di un amore assoluto che sperano possa bastare per superare tutti gli ostacoli, le omissioni, che ne oscurano la felicità. Ho amato la storia, l’impronta tormentata e i protagonisti così imperfetti, inquieti, angosciati ma totalmente limpidi nell’amore che provano. Belle le atmosfere sofisticate che li circondano e i vari personaggi che li affiancano. I momenti tra loro sono teneri, dolci e molto appassionati.
“Quella sera, quando mi hai guardato, ho visto la tua anima e mi ha parlato. Ho visto noi due riflessi nei tuoi occhi, e tutto il resto è svanito. Sei sempre stato tu.”
Un perfetto connubio tra romanticismo, scene hot molto seducenti, intrighi, momenti malinconici e travagliati e dialoghi smaglianti, per un second chance romance intrigante e scritto magnificamente.
July 23, 2021
Footsteps of the Past is a wonderful romance by Felice Stevens. The second book in Felice Stevens' Second Chances series, this book is riveting and all consuming.
Chess and Andre's story is one of love, strength, and healing. But it's also one of secrets, guilt, and shame.
The story follows the men as they are engaged, but struggling with some issues from their past, including one such issue that keeps getting in their way.
The men are so perfect for one another, despite their obvious differences. I hate seeing Andres working so hard, but I understand how he fell into that role.
I love the way this story ultimately unfolds. It's full of natural questions, conversations, and honest reactions.
Both men have painful pasts. Chess's story will leave you crying, and Andres' background will leaving you angry and sympathetic. Both have a reason to not talk about their pasts and I appreciate the way everything comes out. Even if I wanted to smack a couple people around.
I love this series, and the four best friends. Their friendship is one of those that I love to find in books. I love that they can support one another without knowing all the details. They believe in each other and will defend one another without question. It's wonderful.
Footsteps of the Past is a fantastic tale of an established couple hitting a bump in their relationship. Felice Stevens brings all the emotions as the couple experiences some ups and downs. I love everything about this book.
Chess and Andre's story is one of love, strength, and healing. But it's also one of secrets, guilt, and shame.
The story follows the men as they are engaged, but struggling with some issues from their past, including one such issue that keeps getting in their way.
The men are so perfect for one another, despite their obvious differences. I hate seeing Andres working so hard, but I understand how he fell into that role.
I love the way this story ultimately unfolds. It's full of natural questions, conversations, and honest reactions.
Both men have painful pasts. Chess's story will leave you crying, and Andres' background will leaving you angry and sympathetic. Both have a reason to not talk about their pasts and I appreciate the way everything comes out. Even if I wanted to smack a couple people around.
I love this series, and the four best friends. Their friendship is one of those that I love to find in books. I love that they can support one another without knowing all the details. They believe in each other and will defend one another without question. It's wonderful.
Footsteps of the Past is a fantastic tale of an established couple hitting a bump in their relationship. Felice Stevens brings all the emotions as the couple experiences some ups and downs. I love everything about this book.
August 2, 2021
Not What You'd Expect
Felice Stevens has this way of twisting you around so that you kind of expect what may happen but then she tosses a few bombs along the way to shatter your expectations.
In this one we know from the blurb that there is going to be some angst developed between long-time boyfriends Andre, hard-driving heir and CEO of an internationally prominent hotel company, and Chess, a member of the four-man tribe who met in college and continued their friendship over the next decade. They include Elliot from the first book and will conclude with Wolf and Spencer in the last one.
What you don't quite get at the start is where the angst might be coming from because these two men are almost disgustingly in love (compliment) based on their banter, interaction and willingness to fend off what appear to be possible storm clouds on the just-too-much-money Southampton horizon, where the action takes place.
Then a man named Kyle shows up and all hell breaks loose--he was Andre's first tryst 20 years ago and is now legal counsel to Andre's mother, who, along with Kyle, is not happy with Andre's choice of Chess as his partner.
At this point you know where the conflicts will come from, but you will be surprised at how the plot plays out. This is mostly due to the interactions between Chess and his three buddies who all descend upon Andre's Southampton estate for--well, no spoiler. Read it and find out because it's the key to the whole shebang.
And we are left knowing that there will soon be another shebang in the last book of the series. Stick with this one, it's a bit of a slog toward the end but in the end it's a hoot.
Felice Stevens has this way of twisting you around so that you kind of expect what may happen but then she tosses a few bombs along the way to shatter your expectations.
In this one we know from the blurb that there is going to be some angst developed between long-time boyfriends Andre, hard-driving heir and CEO of an internationally prominent hotel company, and Chess, a member of the four-man tribe who met in college and continued their friendship over the next decade. They include Elliot from the first book and will conclude with Wolf and Spencer in the last one.
What you don't quite get at the start is where the angst might be coming from because these two men are almost disgustingly in love (compliment) based on their banter, interaction and willingness to fend off what appear to be possible storm clouds on the just-too-much-money Southampton horizon, where the action takes place.
Then a man named Kyle shows up and all hell breaks loose--he was Andre's first tryst 20 years ago and is now legal counsel to Andre's mother, who, along with Kyle, is not happy with Andre's choice of Chess as his partner.
At this point you know where the conflicts will come from, but you will be surprised at how the plot plays out. This is mostly due to the interactions between Chess and his three buddies who all descend upon Andre's Southampton estate for--well, no spoiler. Read it and find out because it's the key to the whole shebang.
And we are left knowing that there will soon be another shebang in the last book of the series. Stick with this one, it's a bit of a slog toward the end but in the end it's a hoot.
July 13, 2021
Oh the angst… My heart was breaking, the tears were nonstop, I wanted to throttle someone I didn’t like right away and knew was bad news, Grrr… I wanted to hug Chess and Andre so many times, especially Chess, he’s life was rough when he was young and living on the streets when he was sixteen, breaks my heart, but he got out, went to college, meet his three besties and turned he’s life around, I’m so happy for him. Then he meets Andre and one thing leads to another and their together for nine years now, but Andre’s busy traveling with work and gone six months now and Chess misses him and then he gets some anonymous pictures of Andre and second guesses their relationship. When Andre finally comes home they talk but their both holding their past back from one another, which eventually comes out and both or their backgrounds are so very sad. Be prepared for lots of tears. My tears ended happy at the end of the book which had the best ending, I may have happy screamed ;) . So so good! A beautifully written book with heartbreak, past hurts, lots of love and family with or without your blood. Looking forward to Wolfe and Spencer’s book!
July 20, 2021
Footsteps From the Past put me through an emotional wringer and it was amazing.
Chess and André have been a couple for nine years and were deeply in love. The story slowly showed how the two different men have met, fell for each other, built a life together...and how they eventually realized the very foundation of their relationship was set up on lies and secrets.
The story was full of tension, driven by emotions and swoony. The relationship angst was high and disheartening, but at no time did Chess and André doubt the love they shared. How could I not root for them? They were devastated, hurt and afraid, and it took a while, but they wanted their marriage to work. Their feelings were still there, as was their passion for each other.
I hurt and hoped alongside them. And I loved, because the focus of this story is LOVE...put to the test and still needing a little work, yet enduring.
I adored every page.
Chess and André have been a couple for nine years and were deeply in love. The story slowly showed how the two different men have met, fell for each other, built a life together...and how they eventually realized the very foundation of their relationship was set up on lies and secrets.
The story was full of tension, driven by emotions and swoony. The relationship angst was high and disheartening, but at no time did Chess and André doubt the love they shared. How could I not root for them? They were devastated, hurt and afraid, and it took a while, but they wanted their marriage to work. Their feelings were still there, as was their passion for each other.
I hurt and hoped alongside them. And I loved, because the focus of this story is LOVE...put to the test and still needing a little work, yet enduring.
I adored every page.
July 12, 2021
I love that Felice Stevens has given us an established couple in Footsteps of the Past. Chess and Andre have been together for years. They seem to have it all. Andre is absent a lot due to work travel. Lately it seems they are apart more than they are together.
When secrets from each of their pasts surface how will this affect the relationship they have cherished.
I loved how vulnerable both men were. Each has their past pain that they have kept silent about. When someone deliberately tries to cause trouble between them can they survive? Maybe this is the opportunity to open up and have their relationship become stronger.
With the help of his true friends, Chess accepts he is worthy of the life and love he shares with Andre. Andre has his own demons to overcome and with the help and love of Chess he finally does so.
I loved the history these men shared and the continued growth that they worked towards!
I can't wait for the next book in the Second Chances series!
When secrets from each of their pasts surface how will this affect the relationship they have cherished.
I loved how vulnerable both men were. Each has their past pain that they have kept silent about. When someone deliberately tries to cause trouble between them can they survive? Maybe this is the opportunity to open up and have their relationship become stronger.
With the help of his true friends, Chess accepts he is worthy of the life and love he shares with Andre. Andre has his own demons to overcome and with the help and love of Chess he finally does so.
I loved the history these men shared and the continued growth that they worked towards!
I can't wait for the next book in the Second Chances series!
July 18, 2021
This story is different in that this relationship has been ongoing for nine years. But here is where my quandary comes in. They've been together for nine years and still can't relate?? Surely trust has to have been a given even though both are not always on the same page or even in the same location for much of the time. As it is Andre tends to the family business in Europe for most of the year being under his mother's thumb running their hotel chain while Chess is back at home being a college professor who just can't run off any time he wants to go to Andre's side. He also has obligations. Of course, what brings this situation to a head is the machination scheming of Andre's ex Kyle. Having a straight talk would have erased their problems. Everyone has a past but the present is what counts. It's a given that these two did have Zoom chats but a physical meeting would have solved so much. Andre just needed to find his backbone, tell his widowed mother that he needed a respite from Europe, and leave for the US and Chess' arms. Such a simple solution that took far too long to accomplish. Book #1 in this series was a better read and now I look forward to Wolf and Spencer's "Beautiful Mistakes". For this ARC I have written an honest review.
July 11, 2021
Footsteps of the Past by F. Stevens is the second book in the Second Chances series. For best reading experience I recommend to read in order. The first book tells Elliott and Win's story.
This is Chess and André' s story.
Both are a couple fpr years and are still deeply in love. But long distance and time took its toll on their relationship and both know, they have to work to make it work.
When the past comes knocking on their door everything seems to crumble. So fears of one of the men. How strong will their love be??
FOTP is a beautiful, emotional slow burn that gave me all the feels and I connected immediatedly with the characters and this beautful, beautiful story. An unput-truly unputdownable story, I recommend the book and can't wait for the next story.
This is Chess and André' s story.
Both are a couple fpr years and are still deeply in love. But long distance and time took its toll on their relationship and both know, they have to work to make it work.
When the past comes knocking on their door everything seems to crumble. So fears of one of the men. How strong will their love be??
FOTP is a beautiful, emotional slow burn that gave me all the feels and I connected immediatedly with the characters and this beautful, beautiful story. An unput-truly unputdownable story, I recommend the book and can't wait for the next story.
July 21, 2021
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
This is the second book and you need to read the first book before this one. I got all the feels from this book. There was so much love between this couple. Both Chess and André have gone through so much in their lives. They have secrets they didn't tell each other, they come to the surface in this book. There are flashback scenes which I normally don't like but it fit this story line and was done well. Chess and André are perfect for each other and I loved being on the rollcoaster ride with them in this book.
This is the second book and you need to read the first book before this one. I got all the feels from this book. There was so much love between this couple. Both Chess and André have gone through so much in their lives. They have secrets they didn't tell each other, they come to the surface in this book. There are flashback scenes which I normally don't like but it fit this story line and was done well. Chess and André are perfect for each other and I loved being on the rollcoaster ride with them in this book.
July 24, 2023
La storia di Chess e Andrè non mi ha entusiasmata. Forse perchè troppo dolci, troppo romantici, troppo perfetti.
Anche nell’affrontare i loro segreti o situazioni che avrebbero fatto saltare la testa a chiunque (tipo la foto di un bacio tra Andrè e uno sconosciuto), non si sono mossi di una virgola, non hanno mai fatto scenate anzi continuavano con dichiarazioni di amore al limite del sopportabile. L’unica cosa che mi ha fatto andare avanti nella lettura sono state le scene tra Wolf e Spencer.
Anche nell’affrontare i loro segreti o situazioni che avrebbero fatto saltare la testa a chiunque (tipo la foto di un bacio tra Andrè e uno sconosciuto), non si sono mossi di una virgola, non hanno mai fatto scenate anzi continuavano con dichiarazioni di amore al limite del sopportabile. L’unica cosa che mi ha fatto andare avanti nella lettura sono state le scene tra Wolf e Spencer.
July 17, 2021
Holy cow. I wondered for a bit if I was going to get through this, and I was sad, because I love Felice’s books! I’m a lightweight when it comes to angst. But I kept going, and it was so worth it!
Andre and Chess are so perfect together. I loved how Andre made the decision to slow down and chose to make Chess his priority. Having the two of them finally come clean about the past was heartening. Seeing them stand up to Mom and Kyle was beautiful. I loved it when Kyle got his comeuppance!
It’s beautifully written, with wonderful characters. I’m really glad I read it.
Andre and Chess are so perfect together. I loved how Andre made the decision to slow down and chose to make Chess his priority. Having the two of them finally come clean about the past was heartening. Seeing them stand up to Mom and Kyle was beautiful. I loved it when Kyle got his comeuppance!
It’s beautifully written, with wonderful characters. I’m really glad I read it.
March 28, 2023
Un amore forte, maturo, in grado di frantumare gli ostacoli.
Due protagonisti dolci e romantici, con segreti più o meno oscuri alle spalle e con la capacità di comprendere.
Un gruppo di amici indimenticabile.
Qualcuno che trama di nascosto.
Uno stile fluido e avvincente.
Un ritmo piacevole.
Tante emozioni.
Che volete di più?
Hugs&kisses
Due protagonisti dolci e romantici, con segreti più o meno oscuri alle spalle e con la capacità di comprendere.
Un gruppo di amici indimenticabile.
Qualcuno che trama di nascosto.
Uno stile fluido e avvincente.
Un ritmo piacevole.
Tante emozioni.
Che volete di più?
Hugs&kisses
July 14, 2021
I really liked the premise of this story. I'm not sure I've read a book where we start with the couple already established and happy in their relationship before. We met Chess and Andre in The List (#1) and they were total couple goals, so I was intrigued to see what Felice Stevens had up her sleeve for this couple. I wasn't disappointed!
Chess and Andre's charmed lives were a lot lonelier than I ever would've guessed. With their high-powered careers dominating their lives, they'd been left with very little time for each other during the nine years of their relationship. The love was evident, but the connection wasn't nearly as deep as one would have expected, because both of them were holding back significant pieces of themselves. So, even though this couple was together, I definitely considered it a second chance romance.
Set mostly against the family's sprawling compound in the Hamptons, the drama leaned a little toward the melodramatic to me in this one. But I loved that Chess' best friends -- Elliot, Wolf, and Spencer -- were there to ground it for me. There were a ton of beautiful declarations of love to make my heart happy. I can't wait for Wolf and Spencer's book next!
Chess and Andre's charmed lives were a lot lonelier than I ever would've guessed. With their high-powered careers dominating their lives, they'd been left with very little time for each other during the nine years of their relationship. The love was evident, but the connection wasn't nearly as deep as one would have expected, because both of them were holding back significant pieces of themselves. So, even though this couple was together, I definitely considered it a second chance romance.
Set mostly against the family's sprawling compound in the Hamptons, the drama leaned a little toward the melodramatic to me in this one. But I loved that Chess' best friends -- Elliot, Wolf, and Spencer -- were there to ground it for me. There were a ton of beautiful declarations of love to make my heart happy. I can't wait for Wolf and Spencer's book next!
January 10, 2023
C’è qualche errore di troppo di traduzione e di battitura e qualche termine che in italiano mi suona un po’ strano, ma non me la sono sentita di penalizzare per questo la storia, che è molto bella. Tra l’altro personalmente adoro i libri romance con protagoniste coppie già stabili 🥰
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