Kristina A. reviewed on 5/18/2019 + 1528 more book reviews

A Second Chance is the story of Edna Miller and her journey towards finding fulfillment. Edna is twenty-nine, single, and a hard worker. She likes working in homes where she can cook, clean and interact with people. Edna could work in one of the local RV factories and earn more money, but it is not the type of work for her. I was shocked when she only received $100 for two weeks of hard work (one family had eight children). Edna also takes care of her elderly parents (70s) when she is between assignments. Her father has diabetes and refuses to eat the proper foods. I found Edna to be judgmental, set in her ways, yet she was friendly. She likes for a home to be clean and orderly (a little obsessed with cleanliness). I like that she is a strong female woman, but her attitude left a lot to be desired. Most of the book follows Edna through her day-to-day activities (in detail). She sorts cupboards, cooks, does laundry, sweep, mop, change beds, etc. Even the food she cooked made was described down the condiments. It was tedious trying to slog through A Second Chance. I kept hoping the pace would improve, but it never did. The story lacked spark. The joyous moments were few in this story. If you were not depressed before starting A Second Chance, you will be when you finish it. Even the ending was lackluster (I wanted a happily-ever-after ending). Edna is a Christian woman who prays to God to help her and guide her. I liked the inclusion of the Serenity Prayer and the painting Edna purchased incorporating the prayer. Little Emmylou's speech about her mother was so sweet. There was a beautiful rock garden described in the book that I want in my backyard. A Second Chance felt more like a rough draft (especially with the number of typos and inconsistencies) than a finished novel. It has some good bones, but I thought it needed a major rewrite. While A Second Chance is not my favorite book by Linda Byler, I have enjoyed her other creations. I am looking forward to her upcoming The More the Merrier.

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