This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
Reviewed by Chad Richins for Readers' Favorite
Valerie Allen’s Second Chance is a heartfelt and touching look at a long-term marriage faced with challenges and the possibility of renewal. The story follows Olivia, a lively woman who loves family gatherings, traveling, and trying new things, and her husband Doug, who is more reserved and set in his routines. As Olivia prepares for a family celebration, her frustrations about Doug not fully engaging with her interests really come to light. Meanwhile, Doug starts to reflect on how he’s been acting and shows a willingness to change. A meaningful conversation follows about love, compromise, and the bravery it takes to bridge emotional gaps in a relationship. With relatable themes and heartfelt dialogue, this short story beautifully captures the balance between individuality and partnership in a long-term marriage.
Second Chance is a beautifully written story that resonates with anyone who has journeyed through the ups and downs of a relationship. The plot is simple yet impactful, focusing on a pivotal moment that tests a 36-year-old marriage. The pace is quick, just right for a short story, and the dialogue feels real, allowing us to appreciate the depth of both characters without too much explanation. I found Olivia to be a relatable and vibrant character whose frustrations are easy to feel, while Doug’s gradual awareness of his own shortcomings adds a rewarding touch to the story. The themes of communication, the willingness to embrace change, and the value of second chances are handled with such care. Valerie Allen’s writing is engaging and insightful, leaving me reflecting on the importance of putting in effort and understanding to keep love alive over the years.
