Hugh and Jessica are great together and their second chance melted my heart. I loved how she fought for him even when he was determined to push him away. Fun epilogue!

At this time, as I am guessing is obvious by the publication date that was literally years ago, I have decided not to review this title.

Technically, I made this decision a while ago, but was not as prompt with sending feedback as I should have been. My apologies for the delay, as well as clogging up your inbox with this very late review response.

As always, while incredibly late, I thank you for the opportunity to read and review one of your titles.

Laura

Eight years ago, Jessica Quillen and Hugh Baker were engaged to be married, but her insecurities and his painful memories drove them apart. Hugh is now a celebrated movie star and Jess is a beloved vet in South Harlem where she is in charge of the George Washington After-School care center. It's open to disadvantaged kids from eight to thirteen, and gives them the opportunity to access computers for homework, a safe place to be and good food. It's also home to the K-9 Angelz program which allows the kids to adopt rescue dogs and give them a home at the center until they find a forever family. Jess is chasing a pregnant dog down the street when she collides with a human wall, only to look up and see that it's her ex-fiancé, Hugh. He stars as Julian Best, super spy, in the movie adapted from the books by the critically acclaimed author, Gavin Miller. They are in the process of shooting his next film on location in New York. One look at each other is all it takes for old feelings, and old fears, to surface. The memory of Jess giving back the engagement ring is something that has haunted Julian and the fact that he never answered her messages nor tried to contact her deeply hurt Jessica. There's no denying that they've never stopped loving one another but the pain and insecurities they feel are still under the surface. Each time they break through the ice that surrounds their hearts, desires flare and nothing stands between them. Those doubts arise again and neither one knows exactly where they stand. They can't deny that the passion still burns and gives them renewed hope for a future together. The only thing holding them back is the secret that Hugh carries but refuses to share with her. These are two people who belong together, have history together and still love one another but, more importantly, have become better versions of themselves. The ending is so touching and there is magic woven into the epilogue!

A second chance romance with one of Hollywood’s leading men. Jessica literally stumbled into her ex fiancé and it finally breathes life into her work filled life. Sometimes you need a second chance to cherish everything you have lost.

You know what’s my favorite? Second chance love stories! And this one was the best kind, where the couple broke up without any outside forces, without any mystery, without any of the ridiculous situations that are typical of a young couple. Hooray!

Jessica Quillen and Hugh Baker met when she was the on-set veterinarian for a movie Hugh was staring in, and fell deeply in love. Both were in the beginning of their careers. As Hugh’s star rose, it strained their relationship, and feeling that they were not on the same page anymore, Jessica broke off their engagement.

Eight years later, Jessica has her own vet practice in Harlem, New York and works with a non-profit program that pairs economically disadvantaged students with stray pets. Hugh is world famous and filming his latest spy hero/action film in Jessica’s neck of the woods. Both are shocked to run into each other, but only Hugh has the presence of mind to ask Jessica to dinner so they can catch up. He’s never stopped loving her, and has regrets with how he treated her before they broke up.

It doesn’t take much convincing for Jessica to give Hugh a second chance. However, a new relationship between a world-travelling actor and a normal-person veterinarian comes with a plethora of challenges, not the least of which is the paparazzi and the invasion of privacy. But they are older now and better able to have a different perspective about their relationship. Make different choices, handle things better this time.

Or so you would think…

One of the things I most appreciated about this story is that the couple broke up because they weren’t growing together anymore. Jessica explained to Hugh why she couldn’t marry him. There was no miscommunication/non-communication, no outside forces that drove them apart, no leaving someone “for their own good.” When they run into each other again, there’s no animosity or ire, just sadness things didn’t work out. Both acknowledge the things they did that caused the relationship’s end. Hugh especially was apologetic for his part in the demise. There was too much talking about how hot the hero was - and how the hotness was affecting the heroine - but I was able to overlook that since the couple behaved like grownups when dealing with their past.

But then, Hugh goes and behaves like a doofus, and it’s like he learned nothing at all so I wanted to beat my head with my Kindle.

For the most part, I enjoyed this book. Hugh and Jessica were a sweet couple (well, except for the parts where they have sex just about everywhere…it got a little over-the-top by the end) and the compelling part of their story was them figuring out how people with such different, extremely busy lives are able to be together - they have some serious logistical issues to work through. It was also nice to see a couple sit down and talk and be intentional about discussing what went wrong before so they can move forward. But if you aren’t going to learn from those mistakes, it makes it hard for me to root for you.

I’m not sure if I’ll continue on with this series - if there are additional books. This has been a pleasant series, but with all the books on my to-be-read list, I’m looking for books that might rate higher than pleasant.

* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review

I received an ARC from NetGalley on this. It took a while for me to finish only because i was busy. Other than that, every time i opened it i was glued to the page. I enjoy a romance novel when a couple gets a second chance to get things right. The fact that the woman in the book had her own career and was successful is always a plus for me, women empowerment and all. This was a very refreshing love story.

I'm a sucker for a book that has two good guys after the same woman. Love that used in a love triangle. It leaves me wanting the other guy's story. (hint-hint Ms. Herkness).
I also liked the low level of conflict used in this story. There wasn't much for her to forgive and get over so I'm not stuck in the past of a second chance love story. I thought the dialogue was fun and I liked the hero and heroine together. It is a high heat level for those of you curious about that.

DNF 15%

I'm usually a sucker for second chance romances, but this one fell incredibly short. I didn't feel any connection between the characters, which is a major turn off for me. I tried, but couldn't get into it.

** ARC received from Netgalley **

✦Review: SECOND ACT (Second Glances Book 2) by Nancy Herkness https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-b5R
Publication Date: April 2, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4.5 Stars

I liked Hugh and Jess immediately. They were both consummate professionals yet held a vulnerability that made them relatable. Their opposite lifestyles and obligations held a barrier that many would not be able to meld, especially with their history. So, it was fun to watch them, and their friends work through all the obstacles thrown in their path. The dialogue was smooth and easy as the author balanced the happiness and doubt in a realistic and believable manner. Making this sexy romance a joy to read.

*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

~*~*~*~

Kindle $4.99 https://amzn.to/2JQfuqn

You can borrow for free via Kindle Unlimited if you are a member. If you're not a member you can signup for a Free 30-Day Trial Here: http://amzn.to/2t4xstj

Nancy Herkness brings readers another heart-tugging story of second chances in her newest novel, Second Act. I had serious doubts that she could ever create a hero who would equal Luke Archer (The All-Star Antes Up) in my affections but dang if she hasn't done exactly that with Hugh. And then, she went and gave him a heroine in Jessica who not only earned my respect and admiration but notched her own place in my heart. I cheered so hard for these two.

When you pair a financially struggling, Harlem veterinarian with a billionaire movie star you'd think Hollywood (Hugh) would hold all the power. I love that Herkness flips the script. Hugh may have the money and connections but Jessica has the emotional strength. Hugh may be the mega-successful movie star but, deep in his core, he's still the unwanted foster kid, abandoned by the people who were supposed to love him. There are vulnerabilities in Jessica as well. Both were hurt in their past relationship, both need to open their hearts and be honest with themselves, and one another, if they have any hope of finding their happily ever after. Herkness skillfully leads them through their journey with humor, passion, forgiveness, and acceptance. I admired Jessica's dedication to her patients, to the K-9 Angelz program, and the at-risk kids she works with. I enjoyed unraveling Hugh to discover the caring heart he keeps well protected. And I adored them together. I was with them every step of their journey.

Surrounding Jessica and Hugh are a cast of well-crafted characters - both two and four legged - who add an undeniable richness, humor, and depth of emotion to the story. Readers new to this series will have no problem reading Second Act on its own but fans of the series - and the previous Wager of Hearts series - will no doubt be excited by guest appearances of prior heroes and heroines. The conversations between Hugh and Gavin (hero of The VIP Doubles Down) are especially enjoyable.

If you're looking for a contemporary second chance romance with humor, heart, and sizzle, likable characters, adorable rescue animals, and a sigh-inducing, well-deserved, HEA, I enthusiastically recommend Second Act.

4.5 stars

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Romance

Jessica and Hugh were hot and heavy once before. When Jessica realized that Hugh was destined to be famous, she knew that in order for him to follow his own dreams, she had to break her own heart. What she didn't foresee were the aftereffects – Hugh shut her completely out.

Now, running her own vet practice, she also is still a bleeding heart for all animals. When she is literally run in to by her old flame, she will have to guard herself to make sure that she isn't caught off guard again.

Hugh has never forgotten Jessica. With his past, it was just another blow that he expected in a long line of disappointing memories of his past. Despite his fame, he is envious of his good friend, Gavin's life. Hugh wants someone to come home to. But he also understands what he's asking of a partner. To have their lives splashed in public is no easy thing.

Despite their once different views on what would take their relationship to work, both Jessica and Hugh still burn up the sheets and have amazing chemistry. I liked watching them both realize that they could appreciate what the other does for a living, without sacrificing their own happiness or job.

It is a sweet second chance romance with some lovable pups, risk taking, and in the end, both will have to decide if they are worth the risk. I have enjoyed the previous books in this series and this one didn't disappoint.


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
4.5 stars of hotness

This is the second book in the series, and it is in the same world as the first book, but I don't think you need to read them in order.

I really enjoyed this second chance romance, which came about eight years after the couple first split. I found the background to their relationship really well explained. Hugh's poor behaviour in respecting Jessica's ability to cope on the red carpet had caused such a rift between them, that she felt she was holding him back. Now that he has made it big, he realises that what he had with her was real, and is very keen to try and make it work... unsurprisingly she is less certain!

As we get to understand them both better through their work, their commitment to others, and their actions, it is entirely believable that they will find their way once again... but not for a minute that it will be simple. Be ready for some very descriptive writing – both of the very sexy nature, and for the not so pleasant aftereffects of looking after some very sick dogs with digestive issues (shall we say!).

Lovely book with some fun, plenty of reflection, and a hopeful future outcome.

Second Act is book 2 in the Second Glances series and a great addition to this series. When I received an invitation from the publisher, via Net-Galley, to read and review, I eagerly accepted since I enjoyed Second Time Around in this series a great deal. My opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.

I thoroughly enjoyed Second Act from the first page to the last. Ms. Herkness’s writing is emotional and pulled at my heartstrings a lot. The plot is realistic and kept me flipping the pages on my Kindle, breathlessly waiting for what would come next.

Jessica Quillen’s character is loveable. Although she is accomplished in her career, she has insecurities regarding men. When she Hugh years before, she never truly moved on, even though she’d made the decision to leave him. Since that time. She devoted her time to building her veterinarian practice in Harlem. I could feel her confusion when she runs into Hugh again, much is the same manner she’d met him in the beginning. The attraction is still strong, but the pain of their separation still haunts her.

Hugh Baker is an awesome hero. His charisma and take-charge attitude makes him very appealing. Although he never understood why Jessica left him, he is drawn to her in the same way he’d been when he first met her. He is determined to discover why she left him and change whatever it was that sent her away. He too has insecurities from his childhood that make it hard for him to trust that someone could love him whether he’s a success or not. My heart hurt for him when he opens up about his mom.

The romance between Jessica and Hugh is tentative at first, bot afraid to trust the other, but once the air is cleared it combusts. I really wanted it to work out for them, although, since their paths seemed to make it impossible, I had my doubts. That made the romance even more rewarding when they work it out.

If you enjoy a romance with engaging characters, and a fast-paced plot with a lot of endearing secondary characters, then you will love Second Act a great deal. It was great to see the characters from the first book, to see how the children and the dogs had bounded through the K-9 Angelz program. I can’t wait for the next book in this great series. Happy reading!

4.5 Stars

I must admit, I went into reading Second Act cold. In recent years, I've become a fan of Nancy Herkness and I know she's guaranteed to give me a story I will like, if not love. Subsequently, when I started reading Second Act I had no idea what the story was about. I just knew the story would be a second chance romance.

The beauty of second chance romances is that generally, at least a few years have passed since the initial breakup. During that time, the couple has had the opportunity to grow and mature as individuals. They're able to gain new insight and perspective into the relationship. If the couple is truly honest with themselves, they can see what part they played in the deterioration of the relationship.

A chance encounter brings Jessica Quillen and Hugh Baker face-to-face eight years after going their separate ways. Before the breakup, Jess was a new veterinarian and Hugh had just landed the role of a lifetime. A role which would make him a household name all around the world and richer beyond his dreams. The pressure of Hollywood with having to dress just right, act just right, attend the right parties and social gatherings, and say the right things took a toll. Not wanting to dull his star, Jess ended their engagement. While she wanted to remain friends, Hugh cut her out of his life. But not out of his heart and mind. While he is in New York, filming the latest Julian Best film, he wants to hang out and reconnect with Jess. Against her better judgment she agrees. One secret rendezvous turns into two which turns into a whole lot more. They soon realize their attraction is stronger than ever. But the pressure of Hollywood before is nothing compared to the pressure it possesses now.

Hugh is a hero who has used his tragic upbringing to propel him into superstardom, where he's loved and adored around the world. He embodies his superspy persona in that he doesn't allow anyone to see who he really is. Even though he was once engaged to Jess, he never fully revealed his scars. Jess is an Iowan who has an unending, unwavering dedication to her clients. She isn't a person who is impressed with wealth and privilege. She loves what she does, even if she works long hours, isn't paid very well, and sometimes doesn't get paid at all. While running her vet clinic keeps her busy, she still finds time to work with the Carver Center and its K-9 Angelz program. The Carver Center is an after-school facility that caters to disadvantaged children in a South Harlem neighborhood. The K-9 program allows the kids who normally wouldn't be able to have a dog get one from a shelter and care for it at the center.

Hugh and Jess are two people who show what time, distance, and perspective can do for a relationship. They've learned from the past. Hugh has scars that are extremely deep. He has fears he doesn't even know he has. Jess is a healer. She’s not a woman who wants to change Hugh. She just wants to support him anyway she can, without losing who she is. I love their dedication and love for kids and animals. But more importantly, their love for each other. They each have so many layers between them. I loved watching them together. Second Act will definitely tug at your heartstrings, there may even be a tear or two.

Second Act is the third and final book in the Second Glances series. It is a standalone read and brings back characters from The VIP Doubles Down, which is part of the Wager of Hearts series. I am so so sad to see this series end. I've really enjoyed getting to know the kids at the Carver Center and the dogs that are a part of the K-9 Angelz program. I really hope to see the characters of the series again one day. More importantly, I hope Dr. Ben Cavill gets a story.

I love a good second chance romance - throw in a sexy action star and a dedicated veterinarian and you get Second Act which may be my favorite Nancy Herkness romance to date.

Hugh Baker is probably the sexiest action star on the planet. Eight years before he was just an up and coming actor trying to make it and that's when Jessica Quillan knew him. Knowing that in order for Hugh to get everything he wants and deserves, Jessica did the hardest thing and walked away from him. Now 8 years later she literally runs into him on the streets of New York trying to help a pregnant stray dog. Hugh still hurt over the breakup but he never really let Jess go and Jess has done everything possible to try and forget Hugh. Now realizing the chemistry is still there but have they changed enough to give this a second chance.

I love Jess and Hugh both together and as individuals - I really loved how Ms Herkness created these vulnerable characters each with their own baggage. The story is fast-paced with great dialog between the characters which I love. I also love that we get to see some old friends (love Gavin) from both the Second Glances series and the Wager of Hearts series. That being said this is a definite stand alone so if you are new to Nancy Herkness books I promise you wont feel lost.

I loved Hugh and Jessica’s second chance romance story. Eight years ago, they were engaged, but Jessica broke it off when their lives started going in different directions and she couldn’t be the woman she felt Hugh needed. Hugh saw it as another abandonment after years of being passed around in the foster system.
Now, Jessica is a veterinarian with a small practice in South Harlem. She also volunteers at the Carver Center with their K-9 Angelz program. Hugh is a Hollywood movie star filming his newest blockbuster when he runs into Jessica on the streets of NYC. There is still chemistry between the two but there is also still hurt and misunderstandings.
This series is wonderful not only because of the human characters but also the dogs. Each dog in the K-9 Angelz program has their own distinct personality and Ms. Herkness does an amazing job describing those personalities.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.

3.5☆

What I liked:
The writing style
The characters
Part of a series: Second Glances
Standalone
HEA
Epilogue

I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

Lovable Characters in Compelling Story Setting

While billionaire stories are usually not my thing, simply because I find it hard to be impressed by the super rich and famous and the contrast between them and everyday people just doesn’t hold my interest, I thoroughly loved “Second Act". The reason why “Second Act" works for me is not so much because of its hero but its heroine. Here is a woman who stands on her own two feet and it seems to be less HER who needs HIM (with all his millions) but it seemed more like that he needs her and THAT I liked! A lot.

Nancy Herkness is a very skilled writer, with great attention to detail. She creates believable and interesting characters, who weave in and out of her stories. In this particular one she doesn’t stop at humans but also gives different kind of pets their moment in the spotlight. The descriptions of life in the veterinary clinic are highly interesting and I almost wished for more of it. (“Almost” because this could become a different new series all together! #wishfulthinking) This was very fascinating and something one does not easily come across in a romance novel, especially not done so well. Contrasting with it, the glimpses into the life of a Hollywood star were glamorous and appealing too. Great balance between the two different worlds and the two main characters who want to make it work - because let’s face it, a good relationship at times IS also work.

Definitely my favorite book in the Second Glances series - so far. Jessica and Hugh didn’t trust the quality of their love for the first time around but now they finally do. This is a highly recommended read if you enjoy a well written story, with compelling characters, interesting scenarios and if you believe in true love deserving a second chance.

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

DNF at 26%.

Jessica Quillen and Hugh Baker were young lovers until the expectations of his job as a movie star tore them apart. Now she is a vet for an animal charity and he is world famous. They run into each other again after several years when Jessica accidentally ruins a shoot by chasing a stray dog across the alley where they are filming. Hugh realises that he made a huge mistake and will do everything he can to win Jessica back.

I just couldn't get into this and I found the way that Hugh booked a hotel room for Jessica and ran her a bath just to give her some down time was more creepy than charming. Overall, I found his OTT charm offensive a bit cloying and her melting in puddles of goo a bit off-putting.

I stopped and restarted reading this several times but decided my head wasn't in the right place to enjoy this book.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

I've been a fan of Nancy Herkness since her first book and Second Act did not disappoint. Movie star hero's are not really my thing however I did enjoy reading Hugh and Jessica's story. I'm always a sucker for animals in my stories and loved reading all the vet scenes. I somehow missed the first book in the series so I'll be reading that one tonight. Well done and looking forward to reading the next in the series.

I adore a good second chance story so I gobbled this one up! Hugh and Jessica are great together and their second chance touched my heart. When they were engaged when they were younger Jessica knew Hugh was destined to make it big one day. She just couldn't see herself in the spotlight he so desperately yearned for. Now years later he's a big a-list celebrity and she's content in her role as a hardworking small town veterinarian. When they are reunited it is clear the spark between them is still there. Is now their time or will his fame still keep them apart? I highly recommend this one.