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Woodland Park Firefighters #1
Coming Home
When an army vet becomes a firefighter in small-town Colorado, the flames of an old love reignite in this sweet romance by bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray
In Woodland Park, a small town nestled in the foothills of Pikes Peak, Anderson Kelly and Chelsea Davis were once the high school "it" couple--the star quarterback and the valedictorian. They broke up when Anderson joined the army and one poor decision at a fraternity party changed Chelsea's life. Now, she works long shifts in a senior center to support her nine-year-old son, Jack.
After multiple tours in Afghanistan, Anderson has changed, too--physically scarred but mentally strong--and he decides to move back to Woodland Park. Anderson and Chelsea steer clear of each other to avoid reopening old wounds, until they are forced to reconnect through the senior center. They soon discover that the love they once shared never completely vanished. But it will take a fire, a dangerous collision, and the love of one little boy to help Anderson and Chelsea see that the future they've always yearned for is in sight...
In Woodland Park, a small town nestled in the foothills of Pikes Peak, Anderson Kelly and Chelsea Davis were once the high school "it" couple--the star quarterback and the valedictorian. They broke up when Anderson joined the army and one poor decision at a fraternity party changed Chelsea's life. Now, she works long shifts in a senior center to support her nine-year-old son, Jack.
After multiple tours in Afghanistan, Anderson has changed, too--physically scarred but mentally strong--and he decides to move back to Woodland Park. Anderson and Chelsea steer clear of each other to avoid reopening old wounds, until they are forced to reconnect through the senior center. They soon discover that the love they once shared never completely vanished. But it will take a fire, a dangerous collision, and the love of one little boy to help Anderson and Chelsea see that the future they've always yearned for is in sight...
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 29, 2022
43 people are currently reading
304 people want to read
About the author
Shelley Shepard Gray
126 books2,323 followersLibrarian Note: AKA Shelley Gray (Western Romance).
Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Shelley Shepard Gray has published over seventy novels. She currently writes Amish romances for Harper Collins, Kensington, and Simon & Schuster and contemporary women’s fiction for Blackstone Publishing.
Her novels have been Holt Medallion winners and Inspirational Readers Choice and Carol finalists. Shelley’s novels have appeared on both the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.
Her novels have been highlighted in the Philadelphia Enquirer, Washington Post, Time Magazine, and USA Today. She has also been interviewed on NPR as well as numerous regional radio stations.
Before writing romances, Shelley lived in Texas and Colorado, where she taught school and earned both her bachelor’s degree in English literature and elementary education and later obtained her master’s degree in educational administration. She currently lives in Colorado Springs and writes full time. Shelley is married, the mother of two young adults, and always has a dachshund by her side. She is an active member of her church, on Facebook and on Twitter. She also has a website, www.shelleyshepardgray.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
December 15, 2022
Anderson and Chelsea were high school sweethearts, but broke up, each going their separate ways with Anderson enlisting in the army and Chelsea going to college. Brokenhearted, Chelsea has a one-night stand and ends up pregnant. Although Chelsea regrets the one-night stand, she doesn’t regret having her son, Jack, now nine-years-old. Chelsea loved Anderson, he was everything to her, sweet, attentive, and when they parted ways it broke her heart, but his reaction to finding out she was pregnant isn’t something she’ll forget.
Anderson is back in his hometown of Woodland Park after fighting in Afghanistan. Left with physical and emotional scars, he’s happy to be home, helping people as a paramedic/firefighter, a job he loves. The one big regret he has is how he handled things with Chelsea. He’s never forgotten her and kicks himself over ruining things. It’s been a while since he’s been back, and they have yet to properly cross paths but then he’s assigned for and in-person service for the senior living home Chelsea works at. Meeting again inspires him to try to mend things as he’s never loved anyone like Chelsea.
Oh, I do love a second chance romance and Coming Home was lovely! The regret and longing between these two were palpable so I was fully invested on seeing them get their HEA. I loved the bond that formed between Anderson and Chelsea’s son, Jack too. Jack was so eager for a father figure and Anderson felt privileged to be there for him.
There was another side story with Chelsea’s elderly neighbor, Camille. Her kids were exerting unwanted pressure to move from Woodland Park to Florida to a senior center close by them, but Camille wanted her independence and to stay in her hometown. A little romance there, too. I’m happy Camille had support and understanding from Chelsea and Frank, her fledging beau. I enjoyed it!
Coming Home was just the kind of low-drama, heartwarming second chance romance I love! The small-town setting sounded beautiful, and I enjoyed the supportive secondary characters, too. Lots of potential for future romances.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Anderson is back in his hometown of Woodland Park after fighting in Afghanistan. Left with physical and emotional scars, he’s happy to be home, helping people as a paramedic/firefighter, a job he loves. The one big regret he has is how he handled things with Chelsea. He’s never forgotten her and kicks himself over ruining things. It’s been a while since he’s been back, and they have yet to properly cross paths but then he’s assigned for and in-person service for the senior living home Chelsea works at. Meeting again inspires him to try to mend things as he’s never loved anyone like Chelsea.
Oh, I do love a second chance romance and Coming Home was lovely! The regret and longing between these two were palpable so I was fully invested on seeing them get their HEA. I loved the bond that formed between Anderson and Chelsea’s son, Jack too. Jack was so eager for a father figure and Anderson felt privileged to be there for him.
There was another side story with Chelsea’s elderly neighbor, Camille. Her kids were exerting unwanted pressure to move from Woodland Park to Florida to a senior center close by them, but Camille wanted her independence and to stay in her hometown. A little romance there, too. I’m happy Camille had support and understanding from Chelsea and Frank, her fledging beau. I enjoyed it!
Coming Home was just the kind of low-drama, heartwarming second chance romance I love! The small-town setting sounded beautiful, and I enjoyed the supportive secondary characters, too. Lots of potential for future romances.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2022
Review coming soon.
November 23, 2022
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
COMING HOME (A Woodland Park Firefighters Romance Book #1) by Shelley Shepard Gray is the first book in a wonderful new sweet contemporary romance series featuring a heartwarming second chance romance. Ms. Gray is one of my favorite inspirational/Amish authors, but this series is straight sweet contemporary romance, and I loved this story as much as all her other books.
Chelsea Davis is a small-town single mom and works at the local senior center as an assistant activities’ director. She attended college after high school after a bad break-up with her high school sweetheart who left for the service. Young, inexperienced, and trying to fit in she made a drunken mistake at a frat party, but she would never call what came from that night a mistake, but a blessing, her son, Jack. Now, nine years later, Jack is getting older, and her friends want her to start dating again.
Anderson Kelly left for the service right after high school and wanted to fit in, so he listened to male friends and broke it off with Chelsea before he left. After several tours in Afghanistan, he is back as a firefighter/paramedic working for Woodland Park’s fire department, but he is scarred inside and out.
Chelsea and Anderson have steered clear of each other since Anderson’s return, but when they begin to bump into each other around town, they both realize those old feelings at not as dead as they believed or wished. With the help of a little boy, some meddling seniors and family, Anderson and Chelsea begin to see they future they are now ready for this second time around.
I loved these characters! They are portrayed realistically with all the fears and mistakes many of us make and Ms. Gray takes the reader through their emotional journey of maturing, understanding, forgiveness, and reuniting. This romance is what I call a cozy romance because there are no sex scenes, just plenty of emotion. The story not only has the H/h going through emotional upheaval, but the elderly neighbor’s problems with her adult children is a believable subplot also. Every character in this small town was fully fleshed and could walk right off the page.
This is a lovely second chance romance and I am happy that the author plans to return to the Firefighters of Woodland Park for more stories.
COMING HOME (A Woodland Park Firefighters Romance Book #1) by Shelley Shepard Gray is the first book in a wonderful new sweet contemporary romance series featuring a heartwarming second chance romance. Ms. Gray is one of my favorite inspirational/Amish authors, but this series is straight sweet contemporary romance, and I loved this story as much as all her other books.
Chelsea Davis is a small-town single mom and works at the local senior center as an assistant activities’ director. She attended college after high school after a bad break-up with her high school sweetheart who left for the service. Young, inexperienced, and trying to fit in she made a drunken mistake at a frat party, but she would never call what came from that night a mistake, but a blessing, her son, Jack. Now, nine years later, Jack is getting older, and her friends want her to start dating again.
Anderson Kelly left for the service right after high school and wanted to fit in, so he listened to male friends and broke it off with Chelsea before he left. After several tours in Afghanistan, he is back as a firefighter/paramedic working for Woodland Park’s fire department, but he is scarred inside and out.
Chelsea and Anderson have steered clear of each other since Anderson’s return, but when they begin to bump into each other around town, they both realize those old feelings at not as dead as they believed or wished. With the help of a little boy, some meddling seniors and family, Anderson and Chelsea begin to see they future they are now ready for this second time around.
I loved these characters! They are portrayed realistically with all the fears and mistakes many of us make and Ms. Gray takes the reader through their emotional journey of maturing, understanding, forgiveness, and reuniting. This romance is what I call a cozy romance because there are no sex scenes, just plenty of emotion. The story not only has the H/h going through emotional upheaval, but the elderly neighbor’s problems with her adult children is a believable subplot also. Every character in this small town was fully fleshed and could walk right off the page.
This is a lovely second chance romance and I am happy that the author plans to return to the Firefighters of Woodland Park for more stories.
December 6, 2022
COMING HOME is the first book in the new series by Shelley Shepard Gray called A Woodland Park Firefighters Romance. Usually I am reading one of Ms. Gray’s Amish Fiction books, but this one is small town romance and it is fantastic! I really love the small-town setting of Woodland Park, Colorado, where everyone knows everyone else and the people are always there to help whenever they are needed.
COMING HOME starts off increasing the reader’s heart rate right away. Chelsea Davis is a single mom raising her nine year old son, Jack. Life is running smoothly for her until she runs into her ex high school sweet heart, Anderson Kelly. My heart immediately goes out to Chelsea and I just want to hug her. Will she ever be able to tell Andy how she really feels, even after all this time? While she is struggling with all of this, Andy finds himself wanting to protect Chelsea, but he must be careful as there is a lot of hurt between them. Will their unexpected time together at the senior center give them hope that a relationship between them might be possible? There is also a second storyline with Camille, an older neighbor of Chelsea’s, who is facing difficulties with her four grown children.
COMING HOME is a quick read and you will be flipping the pages like mad trying to hurry to see what they are going to do next! I know I did! Andy broke up with Chelsea when he was going into the military and Chelsea was going to college. Now they are both back in Woodland Park. Finding a lost love feels like coming home and this story is sure to give the reader all the feels! COMING HOME is such an emotional read, you won’t be able to help yourself from getting into all of the characters business. I have read many of Shelley Shepard Gray’s other series as well as some of her other stand alone books, and I really feel like she writes with a heart for people. I know this series will definitely be a great one!
My emotions were all over the place as they always are reading a Shelley Shepard Gray story and I can hardly wait to see what firefighter gets the next story! I loved how she made me feel all of the anxiety and tension that the characters were dealing with. Besides all of that, there is also romance, forgiveness, and healing. A perfect way to spend the day on the couch with your favorite beverage, lost in the pages of a heart tugging but beautiful story.
COMING HOME starts off increasing the reader’s heart rate right away. Chelsea Davis is a single mom raising her nine year old son, Jack. Life is running smoothly for her until she runs into her ex high school sweet heart, Anderson Kelly. My heart immediately goes out to Chelsea and I just want to hug her. Will she ever be able to tell Andy how she really feels, even after all this time? While she is struggling with all of this, Andy finds himself wanting to protect Chelsea, but he must be careful as there is a lot of hurt between them. Will their unexpected time together at the senior center give them hope that a relationship between them might be possible? There is also a second storyline with Camille, an older neighbor of Chelsea’s, who is facing difficulties with her four grown children.
COMING HOME is a quick read and you will be flipping the pages like mad trying to hurry to see what they are going to do next! I know I did! Andy broke up with Chelsea when he was going into the military and Chelsea was going to college. Now they are both back in Woodland Park. Finding a lost love feels like coming home and this story is sure to give the reader all the feels! COMING HOME is such an emotional read, you won’t be able to help yourself from getting into all of the characters business. I have read many of Shelley Shepard Gray’s other series as well as some of her other stand alone books, and I really feel like she writes with a heart for people. I know this series will definitely be a great one!
My emotions were all over the place as they always are reading a Shelley Shepard Gray story and I can hardly wait to see what firefighter gets the next story! I loved how she made me feel all of the anxiety and tension that the characters were dealing with. Besides all of that, there is also romance, forgiveness, and healing. A perfect way to spend the day on the couch with your favorite beverage, lost in the pages of a heart tugging but beautiful story.
November 7, 2022
Four and a Half Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒
Coming Home by Shelley Shepard Gray is an emotional, second-chance romance about forgiveness, and moving forward.
Story Recap:
Chelsea Davis has a good life working at the senior center as an activities director and raising her nine-year-old son. She grew up in Woodland Park, a small town at the base of Colorado’s Pike’s Peak. But, when her old high school boyfriend comes to town, she manages to avoid him, until they have to work together on the fire inspection at the senior center.
Anderson Kelly has returned to Woodland Park after many tours in Afghanistan in the Army. He’s now a firefighter with the local fire department. His time in the Army left him with many scars, both emotional and physical. But, he’s determined to make a difference back in his hometown. But when he runs into his old girlfriend, he knows she’ll never be able to look past his scars or forgive him for leaving her and chasing her into the arms of another man.
My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this second chance romance very much. I loved the setting in the Colorado Rockies and the fictional small town of Woodland Park. The characters are very realistic and both enjoy serving their community. Their reason for breaking up all those years ago seemed realistic to me, and they were very young at the time. Both characters have to learn to forgive each other and decide to move on with their lives.
There was a fair amount of action in the book, which kept me engaged and moved the story along at a good pace. The side characters in the book were all realistic and added to the story.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend Coming Home to anyone who enjoys romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Coming Home by Shelley Shepard Gray is an emotional, second-chance romance about forgiveness, and moving forward.
Story Recap:
Chelsea Davis has a good life working at the senior center as an activities director and raising her nine-year-old son. She grew up in Woodland Park, a small town at the base of Colorado’s Pike’s Peak. But, when her old high school boyfriend comes to town, she manages to avoid him, until they have to work together on the fire inspection at the senior center.
Anderson Kelly has returned to Woodland Park after many tours in Afghanistan in the Army. He’s now a firefighter with the local fire department. His time in the Army left him with many scars, both emotional and physical. But, he’s determined to make a difference back in his hometown. But when he runs into his old girlfriend, he knows she’ll never be able to look past his scars or forgive him for leaving her and chasing her into the arms of another man.
My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this second chance romance very much. I loved the setting in the Colorado Rockies and the fictional small town of Woodland Park. The characters are very realistic and both enjoy serving their community. Their reason for breaking up all those years ago seemed realistic to me, and they were very young at the time. Both characters have to learn to forgive each other and decide to move on with their lives.
There was a fair amount of action in the book, which kept me engaged and moved the story along at a good pace. The side characters in the book were all realistic and added to the story.
Recommendation:
I highly recommend Coming Home to anyone who enjoys romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 30, 2022
I have found my new favorite Shelley Shepard Gray book! And that is saying something, because there are quite a few of her titles that are high on my list. But there is just something extra special about Coming Home.
It is partially due to the fact that it is a second chance at love story. I have found that I truly enjoy a well written novel where two people who once loved each other get that chance they thought was gone forever. And these two main characters, Chelsea and Anderson, definitely thought their time together would always remain a thing of the past.
Another reason I loved this story was the community where it was set. I felt like the characters in this town were real people. From the firefighters, to the senior citizens gathering at the community center, to Chelsea’s son, Jack, and Anderson’s parents, the author created a wonderful setting for this book and all future stories to come.
I could feel the connection between Anderson and Chelsea from the first moment they saw each other again. The straightforward way Anderson approached the topic of he and Chelsea getting to know each other again was refreshing. Yet, even still, Anderson and Chelsea struggled to let go of the difficult moments from their past, the “what ifs” that could have been, guilt, and even the fear of being hurt. But these two did a remarkable job of sharing their hearts in braveness with each other when it really mattered. I also thought the connection between Anderson and Jack was beautiful and spoke to the very honorable man Anderson had become.
I loved this book from start to finish and am anxiously awaiting the next novel in the series. Coming Home is a clean, contemporary romance title and the first book in the Woodland Park Firefighters Romance series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
It is partially due to the fact that it is a second chance at love story. I have found that I truly enjoy a well written novel where two people who once loved each other get that chance they thought was gone forever. And these two main characters, Chelsea and Anderson, definitely thought their time together would always remain a thing of the past.
Another reason I loved this story was the community where it was set. I felt like the characters in this town were real people. From the firefighters, to the senior citizens gathering at the community center, to Chelsea’s son, Jack, and Anderson’s parents, the author created a wonderful setting for this book and all future stories to come.
I could feel the connection between Anderson and Chelsea from the first moment they saw each other again. The straightforward way Anderson approached the topic of he and Chelsea getting to know each other again was refreshing. Yet, even still, Anderson and Chelsea struggled to let go of the difficult moments from their past, the “what ifs” that could have been, guilt, and even the fear of being hurt. But these two did a remarkable job of sharing their hearts in braveness with each other when it really mattered. I also thought the connection between Anderson and Jack was beautiful and spoke to the very honorable man Anderson had become.
I loved this book from start to finish and am anxiously awaiting the next novel in the series. Coming Home is a clean, contemporary romance title and the first book in the Woodland Park Firefighters Romance series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
November 30, 2022
Coming Home is a beautiful second chance romance with damaged characters I couldn't help but fall in love with. Anderson and Chelsea were not only high school sweethearts, but on the cusp of a lifetime commitment when he announced he was entering the army upon graduation, and they should break up. Devastated by what she thought was a harsh brush off, Chelsea went away to college where an event changed her life forever. Their paths cross again ten years later as they both find themselves back in their small hometown and unable to avoid one another. Anderson now works at the fire department as a paramedic, and Chelsea loves her work at the local senior center. Both of them are completely different people whose lives apart have profoundly changed them and yet when they meet again, the spark's still there. Can they set aside their pain over lost dreams and give love a second chance?
Coming Home is a sweet, second chance contemporary romance that showcases two characters, each carrying regret and guilt from the past. Gray does a great job exploring the hurt and pain while allowing both characters to come to terms with their past before committing to moving forward as a couple. I enjoyed the secondary plot line involving two senior citizens whose circumstances ring true as they seek solutions to issues faced by thousands of seniors every year. These characters are believable and easy to like and their dialogue is realistic. Highly recommended to fans of second chance contemporary romance.
3.5 Stars
Special thanks to Berkley Romance for the arc and tour invitation.
Reviewed at Cross My Heart Reviews
Coming Home is a sweet, second chance contemporary romance that showcases two characters, each carrying regret and guilt from the past. Gray does a great job exploring the hurt and pain while allowing both characters to come to terms with their past before committing to moving forward as a couple. I enjoyed the secondary plot line involving two senior citizens whose circumstances ring true as they seek solutions to issues faced by thousands of seniors every year. These characters are believable and easy to like and their dialogue is realistic. Highly recommended to fans of second chance contemporary romance.
3.5 Stars
Special thanks to Berkley Romance for the arc and tour invitation.
Reviewed at Cross My Heart Reviews
July 5, 2023
Bel romance basato sulle seconde possibilità, con diversi personaggi interessanti. Sono curiosa di leggere le storie degli altri vigili del fuoco.
November 11, 2022
Finding love lost is coming home. Love ended abruptly 10 years ago for Chelsea and her high school sweetheart Anderson Kelly. He was going into the military and Chelsea was going to college. Being young always leads to misunderstanding, life changing choices, and regret. Back in Winterpark, Colorado, these two meet up again. However, things are different, they are different but what they feel for each other is raw until they both take a chance.
I have read Shelley Gray books before but usually the Amish genre and I have always enjoyed her light-heartiness towards her characters. Being a character driven writer, the characters drive the plot more seamlessly. It was a thoughtful read in that Chelsea was a single mother by choice. Why she was and how she approached it. With Anderson back in her life, how careful she was to open her heart to him. They both had been hurt from the past but for different reasons and how their maturity healed their heart that they were open to love again. Coming Home was named correctly because I think love represents being home. Being vulnerable, being accepted and sharing life.
A feel good read about love, relationships, community and never giving up.
A special thank you to Berkley Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
I have read Shelley Gray books before but usually the Amish genre and I have always enjoyed her light-heartiness towards her characters. Being a character driven writer, the characters drive the plot more seamlessly. It was a thoughtful read in that Chelsea was a single mother by choice. Why she was and how she approached it. With Anderson back in her life, how careful she was to open her heart to him. They both had been hurt from the past but for different reasons and how their maturity healed their heart that they were open to love again. Coming Home was named correctly because I think love represents being home. Being vulnerable, being accepted and sharing life.
A feel good read about love, relationships, community and never giving up.
A special thank you to Berkley Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
January 1, 2023
4.5 stars
A new Shelley Shepard Gray book? About a swoony army vet turned firefighter? Who’s come back home to the small town where running into his high school sweetheart is inevitable? And her little boy worms a place into said firefighter’s heart? Yes please!!!
This book hit me in all the feels. One minute I’m melting at something sweet or swoony… the next, my heart is in my throat as the characters battle for survival from one form of danger or another. Then I’m chuckling at something Chelsea’s son Jack says… or wanting to jerk a knot in Camille’s children… or grinning at Frank … and then I’m back to swooning again because – hello – firefighters! From the blossoming second-chance romance between Anderson & Chelsea to some edge-of-your-seat action scenes, a subplot involving adult parent-child relationships, a sweet secondary romance, FIREFIGHTERS (ahem), and a few thoughts on what truly makes a hero, there is plenty (in just the right amounts) to keep every reader entertained.
These characters are so well-layered and relatable (flaws and all!), and I’m actually hard-pressed to tell you my favorite from this particular cast. It might be Chelsea’s charming little boy, Jack. But honestly I can’t pick because I loved them all – and I saw a bit of myself in each of them. Life teaches us a lot of lessons, some of them learned the hard way, and Anderson & Chelsea’s story is a perfect example. They aren’t the same people they were just after graduating high school, and the scars (internal and external) they’ve earned along the way deserve a chance to rewrite their future and heal the deep heart wounds they caused each other so long ago. Also, Anderson and his rescue cat are all kinds of adorable together and kept me grinning in every scene they shared.
Bottom Line: Coming Home by Shelley Shepard Gray has a little bit of everything wrapped up in one engaging package, allowing it to appeal to a wide variety of readers. It’s a delightful blend of small-town contemporary romance with a dose of adventure and a taste of women’s fiction – and it’s full of fabulous characters that you’ll easily fall in love with. The setting is perfect for this series, and I can’t wait to spend more time in this community & catch up with the characters again.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
A new Shelley Shepard Gray book? About a swoony army vet turned firefighter? Who’s come back home to the small town where running into his high school sweetheart is inevitable? And her little boy worms a place into said firefighter’s heart? Yes please!!!
This book hit me in all the feels. One minute I’m melting at something sweet or swoony… the next, my heart is in my throat as the characters battle for survival from one form of danger or another. Then I’m chuckling at something Chelsea’s son Jack says… or wanting to jerk a knot in Camille’s children… or grinning at Frank … and then I’m back to swooning again because – hello – firefighters! From the blossoming second-chance romance between Anderson & Chelsea to some edge-of-your-seat action scenes, a subplot involving adult parent-child relationships, a sweet secondary romance, FIREFIGHTERS (ahem), and a few thoughts on what truly makes a hero, there is plenty (in just the right amounts) to keep every reader entertained.
These characters are so well-layered and relatable (flaws and all!), and I’m actually hard-pressed to tell you my favorite from this particular cast. It might be Chelsea’s charming little boy, Jack. But honestly I can’t pick because I loved them all – and I saw a bit of myself in each of them. Life teaches us a lot of lessons, some of them learned the hard way, and Anderson & Chelsea’s story is a perfect example. They aren’t the same people they were just after graduating high school, and the scars (internal and external) they’ve earned along the way deserve a chance to rewrite their future and heal the deep heart wounds they caused each other so long ago. Also, Anderson and his rescue cat are all kinds of adorable together and kept me grinning in every scene they shared.
Bottom Line: Coming Home by Shelley Shepard Gray has a little bit of everything wrapped up in one engaging package, allowing it to appeal to a wide variety of readers. It’s a delightful blend of small-town contemporary romance with a dose of adventure and a taste of women’s fiction – and it’s full of fabulous characters that you’ll easily fall in love with. The setting is perfect for this series, and I can’t wait to spend more time in this community & catch up with the characters again.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
September 13, 2022
Digital galley from Berkley and NetGalley.
Coming Home is a lovely second chance contemporary romance. Anderson and Chelsea were very much in love as high school students but went their separate ways after graduation – his path to the Army and hers to college. Ten years later they are back living in their hometown where their paths cross once again. Anderson now works at the fire department as a paramedic and Chelsea works at the local senior center. Both were profoundly changed by the experiences in their time apart. Will they give themselves the chance to know each other again?
I loved how author Shelley Shepard Gray’s story played out and especially appreciated the subplot involving older characters. It was nice to see them play more of a role than simply background filler. I look forward to seeing where Gray’s series goes in the second book (due out in 2023).
4.5 stars rounded up
Coming Home is a lovely second chance contemporary romance. Anderson and Chelsea were very much in love as high school students but went their separate ways after graduation – his path to the Army and hers to college. Ten years later they are back living in their hometown where their paths cross once again. Anderson now works at the fire department as a paramedic and Chelsea works at the local senior center. Both were profoundly changed by the experiences in their time apart. Will they give themselves the chance to know each other again?
I loved how author Shelley Shepard Gray’s story played out and especially appreciated the subplot involving older characters. It was nice to see them play more of a role than simply background filler. I look forward to seeing where Gray’s series goes in the second book (due out in 2023).
4.5 stars rounded up
December 6, 2022
Firefighters, small town, second chance…
There was so much that caught my attention about this book! The cover was the first and the blurb clinched it. I’m a sucker for a second chance romance and the friction between Anderson and Chelsea needed to be explored right away…
There was mystery around what happened between them and that set the stage for the drama of their reunion. I liked the characters. They were solid, low drama (despite their circumstances) with their past providing the starting point for all that followed. Another great twist was the secondary story (and romance) of Chelsea and Jack’s neighbour. Family trouble – and love – knows no age barriers and her trials brought another welcome element to the book.
All in all it was a sweet walk in a small town with all the emotion I wanted from a second chance love. This was a new to me author but I see she has quite the backlist – lucky for me!
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to NetGalley
There was so much that caught my attention about this book! The cover was the first and the blurb clinched it. I’m a sucker for a second chance romance and the friction between Anderson and Chelsea needed to be explored right away…
There was mystery around what happened between them and that set the stage for the drama of their reunion. I liked the characters. They were solid, low drama (despite their circumstances) with their past providing the starting point for all that followed. Another great twist was the secondary story (and romance) of Chelsea and Jack’s neighbour. Family trouble – and love – knows no age barriers and her trials brought another welcome element to the book.
All in all it was a sweet walk in a small town with all the emotion I wanted from a second chance love. This was a new to me author but I see she has quite the backlist – lucky for me!
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to NetGalley
December 2, 2022
Every character in Shelley Shepard Gray’s Coming Home is a normal, everyday person. And I loved that about this second chance romance.
Chelsea and Anderson have regrets and fears, but when Anderson returns home to Colorado and runs into Chelsea again, the attraction between them flames to life. There is a lot these two need to work through, and they are adults about it. Anderson is direct and says what’s on his mind. And though doubts tend to invade Chelsea’s mind and heart, she can’t deny the magnetic pull between her and her high school sweetheart.
But Gray doesn’t stop there. Readers also get a taste of life with Chelsea’s elderly neighbor, and her kids insisting she move into a care home is no picnic.
Coming Home is a story that shows how forgiveness and letting go of the pain of the past can sometimes lead to a wonderful future. There are also several people in this book I hope to see get their own stories (definitely Mallory, and perhaps Beau).
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
Chelsea and Anderson have regrets and fears, but when Anderson returns home to Colorado and runs into Chelsea again, the attraction between them flames to life. There is a lot these two need to work through, and they are adults about it. Anderson is direct and says what’s on his mind. And though doubts tend to invade Chelsea’s mind and heart, she can’t deny the magnetic pull between her and her high school sweetheart.
But Gray doesn’t stop there. Readers also get a taste of life with Chelsea’s elderly neighbor, and her kids insisting she move into a care home is no picnic.
Coming Home is a story that shows how forgiveness and letting go of the pain of the past can sometimes lead to a wonderful future. There are also several people in this book I hope to see get their own stories (definitely Mallory, and perhaps Beau).
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
September 21, 2023
3.5* (rounded up to 4)
Anderson and Chelsea were high school sweethearts and had no doubt they would be together forever. But when Anderson joined the Army after graduation, and one reckless night at college changed everything for Chelsea... their lives took very different turns. Almost ten years later, Anderson is back in the small town of Woodland Park. Bearing the scars from his military service, both physical and emotional, he works as a paramedic. Seeing Chelsea again, and her son Jack, makes Anderson yearn for more - if only Chelsea will trust him enough to give them a second chance.
Shelley Shepard Gray is new to me but when I saw Rachel @ Waves of Fiction review the second book in this series recently, I was interested enough to grab the first book from my library. While this was far from my usual type of read, I enjoyed my time with Chelsea, Anderson, and the other residents in the small Colorado town. There was no drama or angst, the characters were genuine and kind, and it was easy to just sit back and let the story unfold. The secondary plotline featuring the burgeoning relationship of two older characters (in their 60's) was just as sweet and engaging as the central story. Coming Home was like a breath of fresh air and I won't hesitate to continue the series.
Anderson and Chelsea were high school sweethearts and had no doubt they would be together forever. But when Anderson joined the Army after graduation, and one reckless night at college changed everything for Chelsea... their lives took very different turns. Almost ten years later, Anderson is back in the small town of Woodland Park. Bearing the scars from his military service, both physical and emotional, he works as a paramedic. Seeing Chelsea again, and her son Jack, makes Anderson yearn for more - if only Chelsea will trust him enough to give them a second chance.
Shelley Shepard Gray is new to me but when I saw Rachel @ Waves of Fiction review the second book in this series recently, I was interested enough to grab the first book from my library. While this was far from my usual type of read, I enjoyed my time with Chelsea, Anderson, and the other residents in the small Colorado town. There was no drama or angst, the characters were genuine and kind, and it was easy to just sit back and let the story unfold. The secondary plotline featuring the burgeoning relationship of two older characters (in their 60's) was just as sweet and engaging as the central story. Coming Home was like a breath of fresh air and I won't hesitate to continue the series.
September 25, 2023
Coming Home by Shelley Shepard Gray
Woodland Park Firefighters #1
9h 3m narrated by Andrew Eiden, 352 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Epigraphs, June, Army Vets, Firefighters, Colorado, Small Town, Second Chance Trope, Single Mother, Senior Center, Widowers, Life After High School, Insecurities, Emergencies, Adult Children, Fires, Vicenarians, Sexagenarians
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult content
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟👨🚒👩👦
My thoughts: This book has 2 main storylines and they are both good. I really enjoyed this story, it was different than how I imagined it while reading book 2, but it was for the better.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This is a fun series.
Woodland Park Firefighters
1 Coming Home (2022)
2 Moving Forward (2023)
Woodland Park Firefighters #1
9h 3m narrated by Andrew Eiden, 352 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Featuring: Epigraphs, June, Army Vets, Firefighters, Colorado, Small Town, Second Chance Trope, Single Mother, Senior Center, Widowers, Life After High School, Insecurities, Emergencies, Adult Children, Fires, Vicenarians, Sexagenarians
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult content
My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟👨🚒👩👦
My thoughts: This book has 2 main storylines and they are both good. I really enjoyed this story, it was different than how I imagined it while reading book 2, but it was for the better.
Recommend to others?: Yes. This is a fun series.
Woodland Park Firefighters
1 Coming Home (2022)
2 Moving Forward (2023)
November 30, 2022
I enjoyed this book. I was expecting your typical closed door romance, but this one is even sweeter and more innocent than that. Would rate it all ages for sure. There is zero spice, zero steam, and zero tension. While there is a bit of chemistry between the characters, it is not the focus as much as their story is.
This is a second chance romance between two high school sweethearts. A lot has changed for them in the 10 years since they last saw each other. Chelsea has an 8 year old son and Anderson has come home from the army with scars physical and not. The two of them are as sweet as an ice cream sundae. The dynamic between our main couple and Chealsea's young son is also done very well. I thought some of it was a told versus shown, but when you aren't trying to steam up a room I guess you have to do more telling than showing.
I especially loved the side romance between Camille and Frank. Who says you can't find love when you're 60+. If you are looking for a super sweet, small town second chance romance, this is the book for you.
This is a second chance romance between two high school sweethearts. A lot has changed for them in the 10 years since they last saw each other. Chelsea has an 8 year old son and Anderson has come home from the army with scars physical and not. The two of them are as sweet as an ice cream sundae. The dynamic between our main couple and Chealsea's young son is also done very well. I thought some of it was a told versus shown, but when you aren't trying to steam up a room I guess you have to do more telling than showing.
I especially loved the side romance between Camille and Frank. Who says you can't find love when you're 60+. If you are looking for a super sweet, small town second chance romance, this is the book for you.
November 14, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I appreciate solid characters, and Shelley Shepard Gray is really great at making believable, strong ones. It was good to read about issues like PTSD and how it can impact everyday life; not necessarily in a huge, violent way but skewing a person's thought and action process. I also liked how the story involved people of different generations; it makes it more like real life. I'm looking forward to the next installment of this series next year.
November 28, 2022
Anderson Kelly and Chelsea Davis had a wonderfully sweet romance when they were in high school. However, Anderson joined the army and their relationship fell apart. Meanwhile, Chelsea raised her son Jack alone. One night, one mistake on Chelsea’s part, but that doesn’t make Chelsea’s love Jack any less.
Well-meaning friends think that the pair should get back together now that Anderson is back in town. Now a firefighter after several tours in Afghanistan. Jack came back badly scarred from his time in the war, but when Chelsea sees him, all she sees is the incredibly handsome strong man that she never stopped loving.
Coming Home is an absolutely touching second chance romance. It’s easy to see from the start that this pair are destined to be together. However with hurt feelings that were never resolved, Chelsea and Jack do what they can to fight their rekindling feelings. Pulled together more than once due to the local senior center, the more time they spend together, the harder it is to fight what is now happening between them.
This is the first book in a new series by Shelley Shepard Gray, and if we go by how warm and wonderful this book is, no doubt the other books in this series will be just as delightful. I love a character-driven story like this, one that makes it so easy to connect with all of the characters. And what I loved about this book is not only did we have Chelsea and Jack, but we had her young son and some of the seniors at the center. All of these characters were fabulous. Gray’s books have always been fabulous reads and Coming Home is a perfect example of that.
Many thanks to Berkley Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/mK5MAMmpYWc
Well-meaning friends think that the pair should get back together now that Anderson is back in town. Now a firefighter after several tours in Afghanistan. Jack came back badly scarred from his time in the war, but when Chelsea sees him, all she sees is the incredibly handsome strong man that she never stopped loving.
Coming Home is an absolutely touching second chance romance. It’s easy to see from the start that this pair are destined to be together. However with hurt feelings that were never resolved, Chelsea and Jack do what they can to fight their rekindling feelings. Pulled together more than once due to the local senior center, the more time they spend together, the harder it is to fight what is now happening between them.
This is the first book in a new series by Shelley Shepard Gray, and if we go by how warm and wonderful this book is, no doubt the other books in this series will be just as delightful. I love a character-driven story like this, one that makes it so easy to connect with all of the characters. And what I loved about this book is not only did we have Chelsea and Jack, but we had her young son and some of the seniors at the center. All of these characters were fabulous. Gray’s books have always been fabulous reads and Coming Home is a perfect example of that.
Many thanks to Berkley Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/mK5MAMmpYWc
October 29, 2022
I always love reading Shelley Shepard Gray's Amish romances but lately I've really been getting into her contemporary romances. I thoroughly enjoyed the small-town setting of Woodland Park, Colorado, where everyone knows everyone else and are there to help when needed. Chelsea and Anderson have met up again after 10 years of being apart and have a lot of hard feelings to overcome. This is such a sweet romance, and they are respectful of each other's needs as they navigate towards building a new relationship and as Anderson gets to know Chelsea's son Jack.
I read Coming Home on one of my days off while I sat outside, and it was a most enjoyable day! I'm looking forward to the next book, Moving Forward, and seeing more of the firefighters that Anderson worked with.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Published 23 August 2022.
I read Coming Home on one of my days off while I sat outside, and it was a most enjoyable day! I'm looking forward to the next book, Moving Forward, and seeing more of the firefighters that Anderson worked with.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Published 23 August 2022.
December 8, 2022
Coming Home is an emotional foray into regrets, the sometimes misguided choices we make because of love, and realizing home is not a physical place, but the people that make life worth living.
Anderson and Chelsea were high school sweethearts. They thought their young love could withstand anything, until Anderson enlisted and broke up with her. Chelsea’s heartbreak was compounded when she became pregnant in college and Anderson reacted terribly to the news. Now, they are both back in their hometown and running into each other everywhere. Can they rekindle the love that was lost?
Anderson and Chelsea each harbored some resentment from the fallout of her pregnancy. Neither knew how to bridge that gap and they needed a lot of introspection time to figure things out. It was clear from the start that the attraction between them was still as strong as ever. I loved every minute of their journey back to each other.
The set of supporting characters were also amazing. My heart ached for Camille and even her kids. I was really immersed in the lives of all these people and I just wanted to continue reading to find out how it all will come together.
The writing kept me engaged all throughout and it flowed beautifully at a good, steady pace. Coming Home will run you through a whole host of emotions.
I can recommend this for anyone who loves a second-chance romance.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 28, 2022
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Shelley Shepard Gray’s Coming Home is a poignant and emotional second chance romance that tugs at the heartstrings and brings a tear to the eye.
In the small town of Woodland Park nestled in the foothills of Pikes Peak, Anderson Kelly and Chelsea Davis had once been the local high school’s star couple. Everybody believed that Anderson and Chelsea would go the distance and spend the rest of their lives together, but fate had other plans for the quarterback and valedictorian. The two of them had broken up when Anderson had joined the army and Chelsea had made a poor decision that ended up costing her everything.
A lot has changed since high school. Anderson has been on countless tours in Afghanistan that have changed him and scarred him physically while Chelsea is a single mom working every single hour God sends to care for her nine-year-old son Jack. When Anderson moves back to Woodland Park, he plans to give his high school sweetheart a very wide berth. Anderson has been through enough and the last thing he wants or needs is to reopen old wounds. But when the two of them are forced to reconnect, Anderson and Chelsea quickly realize that their feelings for one another are as strong as ever, but are they prepared to let bygones be bygones and give their relationship another try? Is a future for the two of them possible? Or will happiness for Anderson and Chelsea continue to remain far out of their reach?
Shelley Shepard Gray’s Coming Home is a beautifully written, immensely moving and highly enjoyable contemporary romance about staring over, healing from the past and the power of love that grabbed my attention from page one and kept me engrossed until the very last word. Shelley Shepard Gray writes with such sensitivity, depth and understanding that readers will feel every single emotion her characters go through. They will laugh, cry and cheer on Anderson and Chelsea and will be looking forward to further installments in this fantastic new series by this very gifted writer.
Shelley Shepard Gray’s Coming Home is a poignant and emotional second chance romance that tugs at the heartstrings and brings a tear to the eye.
In the small town of Woodland Park nestled in the foothills of Pikes Peak, Anderson Kelly and Chelsea Davis had once been the local high school’s star couple. Everybody believed that Anderson and Chelsea would go the distance and spend the rest of their lives together, but fate had other plans for the quarterback and valedictorian. The two of them had broken up when Anderson had joined the army and Chelsea had made a poor decision that ended up costing her everything.
A lot has changed since high school. Anderson has been on countless tours in Afghanistan that have changed him and scarred him physically while Chelsea is a single mom working every single hour God sends to care for her nine-year-old son Jack. When Anderson moves back to Woodland Park, he plans to give his high school sweetheart a very wide berth. Anderson has been through enough and the last thing he wants or needs is to reopen old wounds. But when the two of them are forced to reconnect, Anderson and Chelsea quickly realize that their feelings for one another are as strong as ever, but are they prepared to let bygones be bygones and give their relationship another try? Is a future for the two of them possible? Or will happiness for Anderson and Chelsea continue to remain far out of their reach?
Shelley Shepard Gray’s Coming Home is a beautifully written, immensely moving and highly enjoyable contemporary romance about staring over, healing from the past and the power of love that grabbed my attention from page one and kept me engrossed until the very last word. Shelley Shepard Gray writes with such sensitivity, depth and understanding that readers will feel every single emotion her characters go through. They will laugh, cry and cheer on Anderson and Chelsea and will be looking forward to further installments in this fantastic new series by this very gifted writer.
December 11, 2022
This book will appeal to so many readers! It has memories of a first love, a second chance to set things right, and the reminder that going home can be possible. Chelsea Davis returns home to Woodland Park with her 9-year-old son and finds that her high-school sweetheart has come back home also. She and Anderson Kelly once thought they would have forever but forever wasn't possible then. Is this a déjà vu in the making?
Author Shelley Shepard Gray offers readers a peek into the adventure and danger that firefighters face each day and she also shares the issues associated with being a single parent. Chelsea and Anderson are perfect together, and her precious son Jack absolutely needs a father! Coming Home is a heartwarming contemporary romance filled with hope, forgiveness, and second chances. I look forward to returning to this small Colorado community!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
November 30, 2022
Coming Home by Shelley Shepard Gray, book one in A Woodland Park Firefighters series, is a lovely second chance love story. Chelsea Davis and Anderson Kelly were high school sweethearts, but they broke up just after graduation. Anderson was nervous about boot camp after signing up for the military which impacted his decision to break up with Chelsea. Chelsea reacted poorly, making a mistake in college, resulting in the birth of her son, Jack. It’s ten years later and they are both living in their hometown of Winterpark, Colorado, where their paths once again cross. Anderson now works at the fire department as a paramedic and Chelsea works at the local senior center. Both were profoundly changed by their experiences during their time apart. Now they are uncertain about reconnecting, after being affected by events and decisions while apart. Neither knows how to move forward and make amends. As they spend more time together, Anderson and Chelsea are able to reflect on their past, realizing that the pain they suffered was not one sided; they each played a part in their past hurts. Anderson and Chelsea learn that their choices in the past do not have to rule over their choices and happiness in the present and future. The feelings they share now are so much more powerful than those they shared before; giving them a second chance to open their hearts to a love and a future together. I highly recommend Coming Home to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 16, 2024
A nice breezy romance there was very chaste and heavy on second chances. A small town in Colorado got even smaller when Anderson Kelly returned home from serving in the military. He broke up with his high school sweetheart, Chelsea, as soon as he enlisted and hasn't really seen her since. He thought their breakup would be temporary and that she would wait for him while he grew up, but she went to college and got pregnant and his heart never fully healed. Chelsea, has regrets, but her son Jack is not one of them. It's hard being a single mom but she has a job that she loves and wonderful friends and neighbors. When Anderson comes back to their hometown to work as a firefighter she is surprised that her heart still feels a pull to him even though he broke her heart. Wholesome, sweet, and a quick inspirational romance that is the first in a series!
November 23, 2022
3.5 rounded up
This was a sweet story of small town second chance romance for high school sweethearts.
Anderson is the hero with a complex past and Chelsea is the sweet local girl and single mom. Both of these characters are well-developed and interesting.
There is also a second storyline with Camille, an older neighbor facing difficulties. I honestly thought Camille was too young to make her dilemma plausible.
The small Colorado mountain town was the perfect setting for a romance. The setting and story is something I would categorize this as a Hallmark-style romance.
Read if you like:
*Second chance romance
*No steam - closed door
*Hallmark style
*Small town setting
I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
This was a sweet story of small town second chance romance for high school sweethearts.
Anderson is the hero with a complex past and Chelsea is the sweet local girl and single mom. Both of these characters are well-developed and interesting.
There is also a second storyline with Camille, an older neighbor facing difficulties. I honestly thought Camille was too young to make her dilemma plausible.
The small Colorado mountain town was the perfect setting for a romance. The setting and story is something I would categorize this as a Hallmark-style romance.
Read if you like:
*Second chance romance
*No steam - closed door
*Hallmark style
*Small town setting
I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
June 7, 2023
A cozy second chance romance with characters that are true to themselves.
Chelsea and Anderson were high school sweethearts until he joined the
Army and she made a mistake and got pregnant. Now Chelsea and her
Son, nine year old Jack meet Anderson and sparks fly. He is a firefighter and
Parametric and she works in a senior center. Can they find romance again
And forget the past? A well written and told tale of two people who are
Trying to face life and move forward after their tragic pasts. Recommended.
Chelsea and Anderson were high school sweethearts until he joined the
Army and she made a mistake and got pregnant. Now Chelsea and her
Son, nine year old Jack meet Anderson and sparks fly. He is a firefighter and
Parametric and she works in a senior center. Can they find romance again
And forget the past? A well written and told tale of two people who are
Trying to face life and move forward after their tragic pasts. Recommended.
November 29, 2022
Chelsea was devastated when her high school sweetheart ended their relationship before he left to serve his country. She left town to attend college and returned a single home a single mother to her son Jack and is content with the life and career she has built until her first and only love returns to town.
Anderson believed he was doing the right thing by ending his relationship with Chelsea before he left but now that he has returned he isn’t so sure. The chemistry and connection hasn’t diminished over time but neither of them are the same teenagers who fell in love so will this be their second chance or are they destined for heartbreak once again?
This is an enchanting story about love, family and healing from the past. Due to their pasts, both together and apart, they are both cautious, but some things are meant to be even if at times it is a difficult and emotional journey to get there.
Anderson believed he was doing the right thing by ending his relationship with Chelsea before he left but now that he has returned he isn’t so sure. The chemistry and connection hasn’t diminished over time but neither of them are the same teenagers who fell in love so will this be their second chance or are they destined for heartbreak once again?
This is an enchanting story about love, family and healing from the past. Due to their pasts, both together and apart, they are both cautious, but some things are meant to be even if at times it is a difficult and emotional journey to get there.
November 26, 2022
I enjoyed this book. I was expecting your typical closed door romance, but this one is even sweeter and more innocent than that. Would rate it all ages for sure. There is zero spice, zero steam, and zero tension. While there is a bit of chemistry between the characters, it is not the focus as much as their story is.
This is a second chance romance between two high school sweethearts. A lot has changed for them in the 10 years since they last saw each other. Chelsea has an 8 year old son and Anderson has come home from the army with scars physical and not. The two of them are as sweet as an ice cream sundae. The dynamic between our main couple and Chealsea's young son is also done very well. I thought some of it was a told versus shown, but when you aren't trying to steam up a room I guess you have to do more telling than showing.
I especially loved the side romance between Camille and Frank. Who says you can't find love when you're 60+. If you are looking for a super sweet, small town second chance romance, this is the book for you.
This is a second chance romance between two high school sweethearts. A lot has changed for them in the 10 years since they last saw each other. Chelsea has an 8 year old son and Anderson has come home from the army with scars physical and not. The two of them are as sweet as an ice cream sundae. The dynamic between our main couple and Chealsea's young son is also done very well. I thought some of it was a told versus shown, but when you aren't trying to steam up a room I guess you have to do more telling than showing.
I especially loved the side romance between Camille and Frank. Who says you can't find love when you're 60+. If you are looking for a super sweet, small town second chance romance, this is the book for you.
January 19, 2024
This book had an okay enough story, but it was slow for me and didn't feel like much of anything was happening. I will say though that I did love the fact that they talked about what happened in the past so quickly. Usually with these second chance romances there isn't any communication about the situation that caused the separation until closer to the end. Everybody is too busy getting busy to talk about important issues. Since this isn't a spicy book we see actual communication which I love.
November 7, 2022
Beautiful Love Story
Anderson Kelley and Chelsea Davis have history. Some of it is sweet, and some of it is painful. The painful parts have left each of them scarred and sadly, neither knows how to move forward from the painful parts in order to make amends. However, as they spend more time together, Anderson and Chelsea are able to start looking back at the past and realizing that the pain they suffered was not one sided. They each played a role in their past hurts. Coming to that realization is the beginning of what turns their relationship from past hurts to a second chance at love.
Author Shelley Shepard Gray once again flawlessly draws you into the story and makes you feel a connection to the characters. They are realistic and their conversations are insightful and help you get to know them more. The story takes you from feeling hopeless to hopeful, from guilt ridden to guilt free, and from unforgiven to forgiven. As Anderson and Chelsea navigate through their past, they are able to move forward and work toward a second chance at love. The result is a beautiful and moving love story that I highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are strictly my own.
Anderson Kelley and Chelsea Davis have history. Some of it is sweet, and some of it is painful. The painful parts have left each of them scarred and sadly, neither knows how to move forward from the painful parts in order to make amends. However, as they spend more time together, Anderson and Chelsea are able to start looking back at the past and realizing that the pain they suffered was not one sided. They each played a role in their past hurts. Coming to that realization is the beginning of what turns their relationship from past hurts to a second chance at love.
Author Shelley Shepard Gray once again flawlessly draws you into the story and makes you feel a connection to the characters. They are realistic and their conversations are insightful and help you get to know them more. The story takes you from feeling hopeless to hopeful, from guilt ridden to guilt free, and from unforgiven to forgiven. As Anderson and Chelsea navigate through their past, they are able to move forward and work toward a second chance at love. The result is a beautiful and moving love story that I highly recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are strictly my own.
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