I liked this novel and particularly liked Gray Briggs, the hero. If ever there was a character that had my sympathy for the entire book, Gray is the character. His story is one of overcoming, and wow, he had a lot to overcome. The heroine, Shelby Thatcher, was a good person forced to work with the guy who broke her heart. I could understand her reluctance to be around Gray, and I felt her angst as she faced the possibility she would lose the bookshop. No one wants to see the thing they love die. Hunter's writing is superb as always, and she's created an engaging story. If you like underdog stories, you'll like this one. Gray's experiences really hit me, and I couldn't shake the sadness I felt for him even though there was a happily ever-after. This story has stayed with me, which makes it worth reading.

"Nobody thought Viola Thatcher would ever expire, if for no other reason than sheer stubbornness" (location 72). This opening line drew me in. It also gave a hint to her character which gave credence to her meddling in her will, leaving 49 percent ownership to Shelby's long lost love, Gray, whom Viola had always liked. Even though it seemed terrible at the time, Gray convinces Shelby to let him help her get Gram's shop back on its feet.

I couldn't help but root for Gray from the start. It's sad to see someone so maligned for something they didn't do and had no control over. It was crazy to see the bullying continue into adulthood. This book kept me reading because I had to see how the seemingly insurmountable obstacles would be handled.

Books that have books or bookstores as the setting are always fun for booklovers. It's easy to see the displays in your mind and to smell the new book smell. Even though I read most of my books on Kindle now, it made me want to go find a small bookseller and enjoy the ambiance and buy a book.

This was an enjoyable read. I'd recommend it. Thank you to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a free e-copy. All opinions are my own.

The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter - oh my! A swoon worthy male main character in Gray. A female main character in Shelby who pulls for the underdog. Can they have a second chance? So many twists and turns with past hurts. Can forgiveness be possible? Loved this one.

Releases Oct. 7th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

enjoyed it very much

Hard to put the book down. Very good!