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Once Upon A Second Chance (2012)

by Marian Vere(Favorite Author)
3.93 of 5 Votes: 3
ISBN
1623429153 (ISBN13: 9781623429157)
languge
English
genre
publisher
Omnific Publishing
review 1: Originally posted on the blog: What the Cat ReadThe moment I found out that this was a modern-day take on Jane Austen’s Persuasion, I knew I had to read this book! And I’m so glad I did because I truly enjoyed this story. If you are a fan of Jane Austen’s novels, then I highly recommend you check this book out! =^.^=I first wish to say that I loved the message Vere gives within this story. The idea that a woman can be her own “fairy godmother” and can make her own “happily ever after” really put a fantastic spin on the entire plot. It made me purr out loud when Julia realizes this, and I will admit that I couldn’t help but smile during the last few scenes. The whole novel was a joy to read and Vere did a wonderful job of retelling Austen’s work.I automati... morecally loved both Julia and Nick, though will admit that there were a number of times where I wanted to slap both of them for their obtuseness. And yes, there were a few moments where Julia’s self-pity made me a bit twitchy, but generally speaking, both characters found a place in my heart, and by the end of the book I wanted them to work things out. I also enjoyed the whole cast of secondary characters. Chris and Derek provided a few comedic moments, Bree’s enthusiasm was contagious, and Lisa and Cathy’s sisterly wisdom was insightful. All of the characters that Vere introduces the reader to were easily likeable. Even Zach was a great guy despite everything.There were also many memorable scenes throughout this book. The scene at the hospital and the events leading up to it is just one example. Then there’s the wedding reception scene, and the wedding scene itself…Well, I could go on, but I think it’s better for you to discover the rest for yourselves, don’t you agree? I will say this much though, some scenes will make you laugh, some will make you get a bit teary eyed, and a few will make you want to hiss in frustration. Truthfully it’s rather hard not to get caught up in some of the events that take place in this book.I don’t know if Vere has plans on writing other modern-day retellings of Austen’s stories, but I can definitely say that if she does, I’ll be one of the first in line to check them out. I offer purrs and tail waves for a job well done! =^.^=
review 2: I was totally into this book at first, until the actual fairy Godmother came into the story. I love the premise of old loves reunited, but there is a line between real and imaginary. To me, you can’t have a fairy tale character just pop into a real situation. Granted, it is sort of a Cinderella story and yes since it is a fairy tale type, you would expect that sort of thing to pop up as your reading but it still kind of caught me off guard and had me rolling my eyes. From the first moment Julia and Nick meet, they just know. And within three months they are engaged. But it seems Julia has no backbone and is weak since she can’t stand up for herself against her strong willed sister, and when her sister Lisa, kowtows Julia into breaking things off, telling her that the relationship is moving too quickly, Julia heeds her older sister’s advice and for the next eight years is miserable…as Nick is too. Eight years later Nick needs a financial company’s help with buying a house and guess who works at that company? Of course they don’t get together right away, what fun would that be? Miscommunication and hurt feelings last for about three quarters of the way through this book, but in between page 1 and the last page? It was cute; you could totally picture yourself in Julia’s place and the man of your dreams as Nick. Actually my version would be a whole lot…friskier, but I’m not the author. Anyway, Once Upon a Second Chance overall was a nice, enjoyable read that will take you away for a short while. It took less than a couple hours to read. I was wishing it were longer and had more substance and plot but it was overall was a nice escape for an afternoon. I wouldn’t mind reading more from this author. less
Reviews (see all)
carol
Persuasion-inspired. Some quotable quotes, but the characters are like high-schoolers in love
shereema
I enjoyed this book. perfect timing for a decent JA adaptation.
Raghu
Love Persuasion so this should be good!
James
3.5 starsUmm...too Disney for me...:(
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