I recently read two very different romance novels in which the authors couldn’t be further apart. Sisters and Rivals was written by an Australian writer while Second Chance Romance was written by an American Southern writer.
Second Chance Romance is Jill Weatherholt’s debut novel while Sisters and Rivals is one of thirty or so books published by Margaret Lynette Sharp.
Yet, they have in common their ability to create characters which draw you in, whether they are sweet and kind or selfish and sneaky.
![Sisters and Rivals by [Sharp, Margaret Lynette]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51zS6T4NuqL._SY346_.jpg)
It’s the mid nineteen fifties, and the nascent romance of two young Sydneysiders is about to be challenged. The heroine, Linda, is being courted by an ambitious young carpenter named Harry. Seemingly without effort, he passes the scrutiny of her parents and they encourage her alliance with him.
Trouble brews, though, when her sister Tessa lays eyes on him and, despite her engagement to a young accountant, makes her feelings abundantly clear. Will Tessa’s overtures ruin the fledgling love between Harry and Linda?
My Take
Ah, to be young and in love and having to face the heartbreak of betrayal. Anyone who has experienced betrayal will surely find comfort in reading this book.
The setting takes place in fifties Australia but it could easily have been in Canada or the US for its accent on the values and day to day universal details of an era absent of internet or cellphones and sex was well…perhaps more chaste then.
I found the book to be suspenseful enough to keep me reading and found the fifties era to be wonderfully portrayed.
Visit Margaret’s author page here.
Jackson Daughtry’s jobs as a paramedic and part-owner of a local café keep him busy—but the single dad’s number one priority is raising his little girl with love and small-town values. And when his business partner’s hotshot lawyer niece comes to town planning to disrupt their lives by moving her aunt away, Jackson has to set Melanie Harper straight. When circumstances force them to work side by side in the coffee shop, Jackson slowly discovers what put the sadness in Melanie’s pretty brown eyes. Now it’ll take all his faith—and a hopeful five-year-old—to show the city gal that she’s already home.
My Take
Second Chance Romance is one of these feel good books which gives us hope in the goodness of humankind. An inspiring book for anyone embarking on a relationship with someone who has small children. The relationship between the adorable five year old and her father’s girlfriend is worth paying attention to.
It was refreshing to read a book where the characters are sweet, honest, good people. Also refreshing that they were middle-aged.
The book warmed my heart with its tenderness and honest abiding characters and its warm and friendly rural setting.
Definitely a pick me up book.
Visit Jill’s author page here.
I read Second Chance Romance and enjoyed it. Sometimes we need something light and uplifting. That fit the bill!
Pam is really good at writing uplifting and inspiring romances. 🙂
I think you meant to say “Jill”???
You’re right! I was just reading a comment by Pam at roughwighting and I guess she was on my mind. Actually, Pam also is great at romance.
Thanks for pointing this out, Anneli. 🙂
I figured that’s the Pam you meant. I’m sure Jill won’t be upset to be compared to Pam.
LOL! You’re right Anneli…no worries being compared to Pam. 🙂
What a nice surprise, Carol. Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m so happy you enjoyed Second Chance Romance. xo
Two great choices, so different. I’ve read Jill’s and loved it. Betrayal–I might be too Pollyanna to want to invest in that. Thanks for the review.
Aw…thanks so much, Jacqui. 🙂
Two lovely reviews, Carol. 😀 As you know I’m already big fan of Jill’s book but must look Up Margaret’s … I love the idea of the 1950s setting as well as the great story.
Thank you, Annika! I can’t wait until we can all review your book. xo
Bless you…I’ll be smiling all weekend now after your wonderful comment!! 😀😀 I never imagined the day would come…thank you so much. Hugs xx
These both sound like great books! Jill is a lovely online friend who I am cheering on 🙂 Thanks for introducing me to Margaret and her book.
Thank you, Christy! I’m so happy we connect online. Your blog is amazing!
Wonderful reviews for these books Carol. I always like your recommendations so I’ll check them out. 🙂 xx
Good morning Carol. I enjoyed reading your reviews of these books. Would love to read them if I had the time. How are you doing? I haven’t forgotten your kind invitation. Have been super busy and out of town a lot. xo
Thank you so much for featuring one of my books, Carol! What a wonderful surprise! 🙂
It’s amazing.!
Your reviews made me curious to read the books.
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