SECOND CHANCE SUMMER is Book two in the Cedar Ridge series by Jill Shalvis. Apart from the romance itself, SECOND CHANCE SUMMER revolves around the quirky group of siblings and half-siblings that make up the Kincaid family. The love that Aidan has with his close-knit family is just as powerful as the love and connection that develops between him and Lily. SECOND CHANCE SUMMER is perfect for readers who enjoy "second chance at love" stories. For me, the history that Aidan and Lily have adds a wonderful depth to their romance.

Aidan Kincaid, like his half-brother Hudson, is a hottie with plenty of pathos. Being a hero is what he does for a living as a rescue worker, but I think for him it's also a mindset. Jill Shalvis does a great job of digging into Aidan's past and creating a character with many layers. His sense of guilt and responsibility when it comes to his family -- no matter how normally great their relationship may be -- is something that weighs heavily on him even if he doesn't admit it. Lily Danville, while not exactly a damsel in distress, is going through a major transition in her life and also knows about guilt and responsibility. The major obstacle to Lily and Aidan's romance is their inability to communicate effectively. Aidan's ability to make himself vulnerable for the sake of love is endearing and very sexy.

I find Aidan's family relationships to be a fascinating backdrop to the romance. I love how he kids around with his brothers, and that adds humor to the story, but they are always there for each other when it's important. Some of the scenes between Aidan and Hudson are particularly poignant and compelling. These side stories involving Aidan's family don't distract in any way from the romance but add to the richness of the story. The storyline involving Lily and her guilt over the death of her sister, as well as her father, show what a flawed and complex character she is.

SECOND CHANCE SUMMER is sexy and packs a powerful emotional punch. This is a great book for anyone who loves character-driven romances with flawed yet likable characters. I couldn't put this book down until the end -- I had to find out how things worked out for Aidan and Lily. The characters pull you into SECOND CHANCE SUMMER and don't let go. I can't wait to see what's in store for Aidan's siblings in future books -- especially Hudson.

Book Summary

RESCUE ME

Cedar Ridge, Colorado, is famous for crisp mountain air, clear blue skies, and pine-scented breezes. And it's the last place Lily Danville wants to be. But she needs a job, and there's an opening at the hottest resort in her hometown. What has her concerned is the other hot property in Cedar Ridge: Aidan Kincaid-firefighter, rescue worker, and heartbreaker. She never could resist that devastating smile . . .

The Kincaid brothers are as rough and rugged as the Rocky Mountains they call home. Aidan has always done things his own way, by his own rules. And never has he regretted anything more than letting Lily walk out of his life ten years ago. If anyone has ever been in need of rescuing, she has. What she needs more than anything are long hikes, slow dances, and sizzling kisses. But that can only happen if he can get her to give Cedar Ridge-and this bad boy-a second chance . . .

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