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Review: The Second Love Of My Life

by Victoria Walters

Second love of my life

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Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Publish Date: 7th April 2016

 

Title: The Second Love Of My Life
Author: Victoria Walters
Publisher: Headline Review
Book: Standalone
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, ‘Chick-Lit’
Found: Netgalley
Rating: 3 Voodoos

In the Cornish town of Talting, everyone is famous for something.

Until recently Rose was known for many things: her infectious positivity; her unique artistic talent; and her devotion to childhood sweetheart Lucas.

But two years ago that changed in one unthinkable moment. Now, Rose is known for being the young woman who became a widow aged just twenty-four.

Though Rose knows that life must go on, the thought of carving out a new future for herself is one she can barely entertain. Until a newcomer, Robert, arrives in Talting for the summer…

Can Rose allow herself the chance to love again?

- Goodreads

The Second Love Of My Life is a heart-touching book that explores, loss, grief and the process of recovery.

Rose has always lived in the small town of Talting. Everyone knows everyone and everyone knows everything about everyone. Rose is struggling with the sudden and devastating loss of her childhood sweetheart Lucas and has lost herself without him there by her side.

This was such an emotionally charged book. I felt the first person narrative was a brilliant idea as it allowed me to really understand Rose’s thoughts and feelings. Victoria Walters has successfully captured the inner turmoil of someone who is trying to move on after a bereavement. She gave Rose this lovely way of trying to rationalise everything, which made it easy for me to connect with her because I do the same thing. But even with this rational side, Rose still struggled to shake off her feelings of guilt. It was perfect how Rose would yearn for happiness and then suddenly feel remorse, thinking Lucas would never get to enjoy this… I think everyone has felt this way whilst grieving.

I loved the small town vibe. There’s nothing worse than trying to redefine yourself when you’re surrounded by people who think they know what you should be doing, saying, feeling! Everyone wants you to be happy but seems to feel there is a proper way of doing it. Whatever the reason for their involvement in the story I did find the mix of secondary characters really entertaining. I especially liked Emma and John. It’s hard not to compare when you’re friend has something that you have just lost. I think Victoria Walters tackled this aspect really well, there’s an interesting balance of so many emotions!

I did have a few issues with the story, mainly the predictability of the plot, but I don’t think it will put any one else off. Sometimes its nice to have a read that flows the way you expect it too and the characters were so endearing.

All in all this was a wonderful character lead story that will be perfect for those looking for a romance with something extra. I predict that this will be in many book bags this summer!

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