Second Chances in New Port Stephens in a second chance romance between Eli, a trans man, and Nick, his high school flame. When Eli returns home for Christmas, he runs into Nick who's a manager at a local restaurant. Nick hasn't seen Eli since he's transitioned and Eli was worried about meeting him again. From the minute they reunite, their passion from their younger years is still present. With Eli's homecoming he's not only dealing with a recent layoff at work, but political issues in Florida, where his parent's reside. Being in Florida and by his family bring forth a lot of conversations between Eli and his family regarding his transition and how they can move forward as a better family unit.

I really loved this book. I loved the connection between Eli and Nick, although Eli could have definitely done better with his communication skills. The photo shoot with Eli and his parents was one of my favorite scenes. I loved that for the most part, with the exception of Kay, there were supporting characters that supported Eli and Nick in their relationship and Nick as he tries to redefine his gender at 40. It was nice to see also main characters that weren't in their twenties or early 30s. I also appreciate that TJ Alexander incorporated not only the transphobic attitude in Florida, but how it makes the characters feel. They did a good job of outlining how such laws can be hurtful and demeaning for queer individuals of all ages.

This was my first novel by TJ Alexander but I will definitely be diving into their backlist. I'm looking forward to reading more future releases from them as well.

Thank you to Atria and Netgalley for a copy in exchange for review consideration.

This book is really fun. The central romance is full of chemistry and really easy to root for. The main characters are complex and well-written. There is a really interesting background plot, which helps develop the characters. This book tackles a lot of really interesting things, like homophobia and transphobia in a small town, without being utterly depressing. My only issue with this book is its pacing. It’s a very quick read — I finished in less than a day. If I hadn’t read so quickly, I would have gone mad with the truly punitive amount of miscommunication in this book. It’s a good book, but frustrating in this regard.

The book opens with Eli returning home for the holidays from New York to the hellscape that is Florida. He’d been mostly happy with his life up north- his transition and lifesaving new sobriety - but his attempts to make a living recently took a dive - losing his writing job, reputation, having to sublet his apartment, being nearly 40 and not knowing what comes next…Oof. It’s a lot.
Not holiday party conversation material At All so he’s holding it in and desperate enough for avoidance that he doesn’t complain when he of all people is volunteered for the restock the liquor run, because at least he’ll get a time out.
Would he have felt the same if he knew he’d be literally running into his ex Nick while he’s doing some begrudging shopping at the same liquor store? Hmmm
Nick has had a major life change or two of his own - starting with a child and a divorce - and the further we get into the story the more we see them relearn each other, starting as friends before moving into more.

This book has what *I* think is the most important thing a second chance romance needs -
A reason to believe things could be better the second time. Not only do I want neither person to have been horrible before - things can just not work out without a ‘bad guy’ - but I need time with growth and change before they try again. With a couple decades and all sorts of changes, I believe they can make make it

It also has so much humor, which balances out the heaviness the story *could* have been overwhelmed with. Yes, some people are trash, but there’s so much more going on than dealing with that.
And kids in books can be a hit or miss for me, but Zoe is a freaking delight.
What I enjoyed most of all was, when unexpected life developments started turning things around, Eli and Nick both realizing that even though it was the end of the paths they’d been on, change could be the start of something even better. Hope is a great holiday theme.

Thanks to NetGalley and atria for the arc!

Second Chances in New Port Stephen has moved into the no. 1 spot for my favorite holiday read of the year. When I started reading, I really did not know what to expect, certainly not a laugh-outloud, cry a little book that was a wonderful, emotional joy-ride. I couldn't put it down, and didn't want it to end, except that I wanted a happy ending for Eli and Nick.

T.J. Alexander has written a novel that is more than just a romance, although the love story is fabulous. The story of Eli and Nick's relationship is about friendship and love, of course, but also about acceptance and inclusion. My favorite characters were Eli's and Nick's parents, I loved how they accepted their children and their evolving identities, even as they didn't always get things 'right'. I also fell in love with Zoe, Nick's daughter, she is absolutely charming! The characters in the extended families and friends were developed enough to bring emotional depth to the story, and involve the reader even more deeply in the central plot. What a wonderful group of people the author has created!

This was my first book by T. J. Alexander, but it will definitely not be my last. I am looking forward to picking up their other novels, Chef's Kiss and Chef's Choice asap, as well as future novels (Triple Sec in 2024).

Thank you to Netgalley and Atria Books for the digital ARC of Second Chances in New Port Stephen by T.J. Alexander. The opinions in this review are my own.

Happy publication day to Second Chances in New Port Stephen! This was exactly the type of romance book I love to read, and right now is the perfect time of year for a book like this. Here are five things I liked about this 5 star read:

1) Every single one of the characters is so well-developed. I adored the relationship between the two MCs, but also watching them interact with their loved ones and grow was something special to behold.

2) This story doesn’t focus on trauma despite the fact that the characters have gone through/are going through some serious things, and instead puts the emphasis on joy. I felt that the novel struck the perfect balance between exploring hard topics and centering the story on the good parts of new (or renewed) love.

3) How it deals with the journey of finding yourself later in life was handled spectacularly. You can feel the awkwardness and hesitation co-mingled with the euphoria of coming into your own practically jumping off the page.

4) This book is sentimental and nostalgic and tackles some heavy stuff, but it’s also got JOKES. I kind of expected it because one of the MCs is a comedian, but the writing DELIVERS. I was DYING (yes, I know, that’s a lot of caps, but it’s TRUE)

5) The author went to Emerson and it just warms my heart to see fellow Emersonians thriving and succeeding

I highly recommend checking this out for all your holiday romance needs (or read it in the summer, it’ll still be fantastic). Thank you to Atria Books and Netgalley for the ARC. Second Chances in New Port Stephen is out today!

This book felt like hanging out with good friends - full of heart, laughs, and good times. Eli is not just a trans character; he's like someone you know, figuring things out. The author weaves a story that feels like a favorite tune, capturing the ups and downs of being yourself - especially in Florida.

Eli heads back home and bumps into his first love, Nick. It's not just a reunion; it's like finding a lost song on your playlist. In their late 30s, Eli and Nick show that growing up doesn't mean you've got everything figured out.

The story brings in diverse queer identities, talking about things like demisexuality in a way in which I could relate. Eli's parents learning to understand his transition is a touching part of the tale.

What's cool is that, even with serious topics like transphobia and alcoholism, the book keeps a happy Christmas vibe. Eli and Nick's connection, mixed with the fun of Zoe, Nick's daughter, makes it special.

I would say this isn't just a love story; it's about accepting each other and handling life's surprises. Eli and Nick's journey is like a warm hug, making this book a cozy and relatable read for anyone who likes a mix of romance, humor, and real feelings.

I have been a fan of TJ Alexander’s since their debut, Chef’s Kiss, last year, so was champing at the bit to read this one. It is a complete stand-alone.

Eli is back home for Christmas after being away for 25 years. He’s lost his job and hasn’t told anyone and doesn’t know what he’s going to do. He runs into his high school ex, Nick, who hasn’t seen him since his transition. It’s a clever perspective of meeting people, again, for the first time.

It’s an easy chemistry between the two of them, so they redevelop a friendship. Eli is still attracted to Nick, but knows he’s straight and wouldn’t be interested, so he decides to firmly place Nick in the friend box. As they spend more time with each other, Nick realizes he’s also attracted to Eli. It was refreshing to see a character in their late 30s question their identity and navigate those feelings.

Overall, I loved it. It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year. I love that the author and MCs are around my age, so much of the humor is Xennial humor and had me snickering many times. I loved Nick’s dad to pieces…and Nick’s daughter Zoe…and Max… and essentially everyone, except for Nick’s ex mother-in-law, Kay. We don’t like her. She is the actual worst. She even puts raisins in pumpkin pie. Who does that?!

Although there are serious topics touched on like transphobia and alcoholism, the book is lighthearted, sweet, and low angst. It was nice to see acceptance in the MCs’ families and to see the course correction when they wanted to be better.

It’s just a beautiful book and I will continue to read whatever Alexander writes.

Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley. I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

TJ Alexander is an author I discovered earlier this year and they are now 100% an auto buy author now! I fell in love with Chef’s Kiss and really enjoyed Chef’s Choice, so I was extremely excited to receive an early review copy of Alexander’s newest book, Second Chances in New Port Stephen!

Eli comes home to Florida for the first time in 20 years and runs in to his old flame, Nick. The two end up rekindling their romance as adults and what follows is a beautiful depiction of love and second chances.

I won’t lie, I’m not big on second chance romances, so I was a bit hesitant going in, but my fears were unfounded and this ended up being a delightful read! It somehow managed to make me laugh and cry all within the first 50 or so pages. 😅

I’m definitely going to need to pick up a physical copy for my shelves because I can see myself reading this again. Also, the cover? So cute! 🥰 🏖️🎄

Read for:

🦩trans MMC
🎄single dad MMC
🦩wild, misguided, loving family
🎄holiday romcom
🦩second chance romance

Thanks to the publisher and netgalley for the arc! All opinions are my own. I can’t wait for TJ’s next book coming next year, Triple Sec! The premise has me intrigued! 👀🍸

A beautiful second chance love story about a transgender man coming home for the holidays to his hometown and reuniting with a love that he thought was out of reach. No matter how old you are you are never too late to find love. There was a lot of found family,validating moments, and journey of self discovery for both Eli and Nick in this story

This was my first TJ Alexander story and needless to say I loved this book and can't wait to read more by this author. I will definitely be adding this book to my collection.

Thank you so much Netgalley for approving this ARC.

I really wanted to like this one, but it fell a bit flat for me. I am super picky about second chances and this one just didn’t really do it for me. I liked the characters, but just wanted a little more.

I think second chance romances are probably the hardest to write and pull off but TJ did it perfectly, as i suspected they would. This was actually the THIRD book by TJ Alexander that I've read this year (they are publishing like 2 books a year currently I think?!?). TJ is now an auto-buy writer for me. I'll read your grocery list idgaf.

Second Chances in New Port Stephen features Eli, a trans man, and Nick, both in their 4o's, who rekindle their young love when Eli comes home to Florida for the first time in 20 years for the holidays. This had all of the gentleness and kindness I have come to adore in TJ Alexander novels while also feeling fresh and festive. Every time I read another book by TJ I just feel this overwhelming sense of love and happiness and this one is no exception.

I wanted to note, and this has also been noted in a lot of reviews that I have seen, that TJ does an incredible job of listing content warnings in their books and because of this I expected this book to be a lot darker than it was. I found all of the content to be quite mild and it seems like most other folks agree! Regardless, huge shoutout to TJ and their team for keeping their readers safe.

Y'all go ahead and add this to your must-read books this holiday season! I can't wait for the world to meet Eli and Nick (and Zoe)!

Now, if I don't get an arc of TJ's next book (a poly romance titled TRIPLE SEC) that is set to come out next year, I think I will simply pass away.

When Eli returns home for Christmas after his career goes up in flames, it's his first time back since he transitioned, and his first time crossing paths with his high school ex in over 20 years.

This was a tender second chance romance. While a lot has changed in both Eli and Nick's lives since they dated in high school, they still have a strong underlying connection. They are both navigating complex family dynamics over the holidays in their small town in Florida, and I loved seeing them reconnect and remember the things they loved about one another.

While it deals with some serious topics, the author keeps it light and entertaining throughout. It's a fresh take on a second chance romance and perfect to pick up this holiday season.

Thanks Simon & Schuster for my gifted copy.

This book has a lot of depth and well-developed, believable and flawed characters. On the more serious end of romance novels, but with plenty cuteness thrown in.

Ok, this was an adorable second chance romance— and it’s also so much more than that.

🦩 What we have…
- second chance at high school love
- lovable characters
- holiday vibes
- the most UNDERSTANDING and SUPPORTIVE parents (and friends)
- trans rep
- queer rep
- small town romance— but like, realistic. Like the small town is covered in MAGA flags and nosy neighbors and there’s not a cute baker or carpenter in sight.

🦩 Instead, we have a very real look at what it would be like to be a queer person just trying to live their life and love who they love in a state like Florida. Reading gives us perspective, and I’m thankful to this book for opening my eyes to what it would be like to be so happy to be falling in love, while simultaneously being so afraid for your health, and your wellbeing, and the threats to those things from your own government.

🦩 These topics are handled so well in this book— it never feels super heavy. It still manages to feel like a light, happy, sweet romance!

🦩 There were parts that got a bit slow for me, and parts that felt very convenient. There’s also one element of the ending I’m REALLY struggling to get behind personally— so I couldn’t give this a full 5⭐️. But overall I really enjoyed this and feel like it’s so so important to read books about love that doesn’t necessarily look like the love we experience. For that, this book is invaluable, and I highly recommend it!

This book was so good!!! A queer, second chance romance is exactly my jam and it was everything I could’ve wanted! This was so much more than just a romance too! Eli & Nick were both so well fledged out individually and so were their respective family members that it was so easy to fall in love with all of them (except Kay, she can rot) and it made the romance that much more special! Also I love a book with an epilogue that’s sets in the future so I was very happy with the ending! 🥰 I did think the whole sinkhole things was weirdly unnecessary and for some reason, it just took me out of the story a little bit? And Eli drove me crazy in specific moments (I did really love him though!) but besides those two things, I really really loved this book and very much recommend it!!

I really enjoyed T.J Alexander's first two books, and this was no exception. As always, the book highlights diverse characters, and handles them and related issues really well. Watching this second chance romance develop between Eli and Nick was really special, and it was really great to see Nick learn things about himself and his sexuality later in life without having a huge existential crisis about it. I'm not typically a huge fan of kids in my romance novels, but Zoe was adorable and a great side character. If you like romances with well developed characters that highlight queer experiences, check this book out.

This was a really cute holiday romance. I loved all the characters. I live in Florida and I could easily imagine this little town and all the crazy people who live there. I really enjoyed T.J. Alexander's writing style and will have to look into more of their books.

Thank you to Atria and Netgalley for an advanced readers copy of this book for my honest review.

Second Chances in New Port Stephen by TJ Alexander
Rating: 5 stars
Steam: 2 chilis
Pub date: 12/5

I absolutely adored this book! It’s my first read by TJ Alexander, and it won’t be my last!
Eli Ward, our trans protagonist, returns home to Florida for Christmas after his career tanks. He hasn’t been home in years, and now that he’s almost 40, jobless, and sober, he’s an entirely different person than he was the last time he was there. When he bumps into his first love, Nick Wu, it’s easy to fall back into a casual friendship until old feelings resurface.
Eli’s journey of self-discovery and resilience is both relatable and inspiring. It’s hard to go home again, and Alexander captures the essence of that feeling, blending it seamlessly with a hilarious yet touching reunion with his high school ex. The chemistry between Eli and Nick sizzles with authenticity, making it impossible not to root for their rekindled connection.
The generational dynamics are brilliantly depicted. From the struggles of Eli's boomer parents to the cringe-worthy memories of youth, this story will resonate with readers of all ages. The inclusion of adorable and witty characters like Nick’s daughter, Zoe, adds a perfect touch of charm to the storyline.
The humor is on point, and the spice in the story is tastefully done. The Florida references and nods to the infamous 'Florida man' add an extra layer of hilarity to this already engaging rom-com.
This is a book that leaves you with a smile on your face, a warm feeling in your heart, and an eagerness to explore more of TJ Alexander's work. "Second Chances in New Port Stephen" is a must-read for anyone craving a thoroughly enjoyable romantic comedy.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Atria, and Simon and Schuster for my free copy for review.

Read if you like:
*Christmas rom-com
*m/m romance
*single dad
*second chance romance
*interracial romance
*older MCs (40’s)

TJ Alexander’s Second Chances in New Port Stephen is a funny and hopeful story following a trans guy returning to his Florida hometown for Christmas, where he runs into his high school ex, who is a literal DILF. Alexander highlights how transitioning, especially in a not-so-supportive state, can affect your family dynamics—even with a supportive family. This book helped put into words the unique feeling of returning to the town that raised you, when you’re not the same person it raised anymore.

TJ Alexander is becoming an auto buy author. I so enjoyed this book and didn't want it to end! I'm not a huge fan of second Chance romances but this one worked for me. I loved Nick and his daughter so much. Eli could be a little judgmental so I wasn't a big fan of that. I can't wait to see what TJ comes up with next.

3.5 stars rounded up to 4