“You’re depressed,” the doctor declared.“Ya think?” is author Avery Elkins Thompson’s sarcastic response. She can’t pull out from the malaise that set in following her husband’s untimely death, and her adult children fear they are losing her too.She can’t write, and questions about their father’s death leave the family mired in pain. “We need a healing place,” her oldest son tells her, suggesting … tells her, suggesting she find it on Anna Maria Island, Florida, a former family vacation spot.
When Avery returns to Baltimore to sell the family’s waterfront condo, she meets rodeo-ers-turned-real-estate-brokers Teddie and Rider Davis, and Avery’s quiet life will never be the same again. The Davises help arrange a short-term house swap with widower Gabriel Carson from Anna Maria, whose overprotective parenting has resulted in two self-centered, twenty-something daughters. Avery and Gabriel are in for the summer of their lives as they step into one another’s messy, complicated worlds.
Still, venturing out on her own again is challenging for Avery, whose experiences at the Ringling’s magnificent Ca d’Zan mansion, and with the quirky characters she meets there, eventually awaken her to truths she desperately needs to remember—that God has not forgotten her, and as crazy as life can be, it is possible to laugh and love again.
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Awakening Avery is a Second Chance Romance book by Laurie Lewis. I had read a book by this writer before that I enjoyed a lot so I decided to pick up a copy of this one. I was slightly surprised to find that she is a Christian writer as there was nothing remotely indicating that in the first book I read by her. Generally I do not go for Christian stories as very often the writers include too much of their religious views than telling the story but I have to say that the way Ms Lewis is telling Avery’s story, it does not bother me. In its essence it is a story of a woman who has lost her husband, her children have lost their father and the family and the people in their orbit simply question their faith or lack of it. We all have something we believe in and whether it is Christian or something else, Ms Lewis has asked us to listen to how her characters see it.
I loved that the heroine of the story is not a young(ish) person but someone who has lived, loved and lost; it is not so often we see that. The writer takes Avery (and us) on a journey of healing and she (and us) meets different people and it brings us laugher, tears and takes your breath away!
Avery and Gabriel have both lost spouses, but Gabriel also lost his faith when he lost his wife. And the pain of losing her turned him into a helicopter parent holding onto his daughters too tightly and not letting them stand on their own two feet. Avery’s loss is more recent and she is hurt and angry because she couldn’t convince her husband to take better care of his heath. She and her children are each suffering in their own ways and have to find their way forward. Avery goes on a journey to rediscover who she is without her husband Paul. Along the way she meets many quirky characters like Teddie, Rider, and George, rediscovers her love of writing, and opens her heart to love again. This was a sweet faith filled romance with plenty of funny and sad moments.
Awakening Avery
(A Second Chance Romance #3)
By Laurie L.C. Lewis
5 STARS
This is the 3rd book in the series but can be read as a standalone. This book was pretty darn good! It has me feeling so many different emotions… i was sad, happy, excited, hopeful and heartbroken. The way the author wrote the characters was great. They are relate-able and real i just loved to see where Avery story was headed because she deserved a happy ending! I really enjoyed this book and i would absolutely recommend it to a friend!
Review by Anastasia D.
Awakening Avery by Laurie Lewis was the complete package. I can honestly say this book had me hooked from page one.
Avery has written a few books and has recently lost her husband. Herself and her children have been devastated. She decides she needs to go spend the summer somewhere else to find herself. She ends up switching homes with another widow who she has seen many times before while on vacation.
Nice and simple right? Well the temporary switch is anything but simple. Gabriel is basically kicking his two daughters out of the house for the summer. Giving them a dose of tough love. He has sheltered them and they are both grown women who need to learn not to depend on Daddy.
Avery introduces Gabriel to an author’s books that she says was her mentor. Gabriel was hooked from the beginning. There are so many characters in this book and they all end up intertwined.
This really was a great read that will leave you have a happy, sweet feeling and it will also have you nearly in tears at times. A book you do not want to skip over.
I have not had the pleasure of reading anything from Laurie Lewis before, but I do look forward to going and seeing what else she has available to get my hands on. I really enjoyed this novel. It was a sweet and feel-good story that was easy to disappear into for an afternoon. I found myself feeling the gambit of emotions while reading Awakening Avery, and I loved that this added so much dimension to the story. This is the third book in the Second Chance Romance series from Laurie. I did not have any issues reading it as a stand-alone, but like I said earlier, I will go back and read the first two because I loved this one.
We first meet Avery about a year or so after she lost her husband. Life for her has revolved around surviving minute to minute. Just living each day the best she can to get from sunup to sundown. I felt for her. She was stagnant in her grief and that is a hard place to be. I have been there and I connected with her on that feeling of being stuck in a rut with your grief.
Eventually Avery’s children convince her that a trip to the family holiday home will be good for her and help her to take that next step in life. First she stops off at the condo her family owns in Baltimore. She has decided it is time to sell off a few properties. Then an unexpected option places her in a house swap situation.
Avery eventually swaps homes with Gabriel Carson, also a widower. When the two meet to officially set up the swap a connection is there that will spark a completely different summer than she had imagined. Will the new friendships and new relationships, survive the scrutiny of the two’s children and their haunted pasts? What does a future with them together look like?
5 Star
Awakening Avery( A Second Chance Romance Book 3)by Laurie Lewis is the third book in the A Second Chance series.This can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the first two books in this series. I was definitely on a emotional rollercoaster ride with this book. My heart ached in some parts. I didn’t want to stop reading once I started till the end. The emotional journey about moving on after a loss. I felt like I was going through what ever the characters were going through. Sometimes all you need is time and others time is a bad thing.i think we all handle it differently. I know I do..I just can’t say enough about this book.im a little speechless and my heart is in my throat. I absolutely love this author, as I’ve read other books by her.this whole series takes the cake for me.i highly recommend this Book and I can’t wait to read more from this author .
Awakening Avery (A Second Chance Romance Book 3) by Laurie Lewis was a sweet, good feel read that pulled, twisted and melted the heart strings.
Not my first read by this author, but it is the first in this series. No worried these books can all be read as stand-a-longe, so no worries about reading out of order. I was pulled into this book by not only the cover but the synopsis. I was not disappointed. In truth I was a little shocked with how much I completely fell into this book, that before I knew it hours has passed, I had forgotten to eat, and my heart was all fluffy and melty.
I don’t know where to start, there is so much good going on in this book. Getting over lose, learning to let go, and learning what it is to cut the cord. Reading about these two souls that were hurting in their own ways, and then finding one another, putting up with out siders and family. It was such a emotional read that, somehow I managed to feel every emotional possible. Writing like that, is makes me love reading.
I got so many feels right now. But I have to say, alongside the outstanding story and plot, the writing was smooth easy to follow and, everything connecting almost seamlessly. This book was a perfect bundle that was just a joy to read.
If you haven’t guessed I give this book not only my stamp of approval but, my super high recommendation. It will melt your heart, kick off forgotten emotions and have you rooting for a love that was pass due. You’re going to some tissues for this one.
Happy Reading
-E.A. Walsh
4 Stars
Awakening Avery is the third book in the Second Chance Romance Series by Laurie Lewis. I have read a few of Ms. Lewis’s books now and I can always count on her to give me something to sink my teeth into- something that will move me, and something that will keep me well and truly entertained. I have come into this series by reading the third book first- I know, I am a bit backward lol. Needless to say, that this book can be read as a standalone, but it has intrigued me enough to want to know what happened in those first two books, so I will definitely be going back to read them in the near future.
I found this to be quite a thought-provoking story, as I could really relate to Avery and her stage in life- so it really got me thinking about what I would do and how I would cope given the same circumstances that Avery finds herself in. Because I am not so sure I would do very well at all. Which makes me admire Avery all the more for her strength, even as she struggled with depression, grief, feeling lost and somewhat stuck- and unable to move forward. But, she does just that- and it’s through this wonderful story that we get to accompany her on this journey to find herself, and begin to ‘live’ again.
As always, Ms. Lewis writes characters who really make the story special- the story itself is interesting- but it’s the characters who really make this story- they are portrayed in such a way that the story becomes ‘real’… entirely believable, and very relatable.
A wonderful second chances story.
Thank you, Ms. Lewis!
Awakening Avery by Laurie Lewis
Four Stars
Finding yourself after so long is terrifying. Not only do you not know the rules but you also don’t know the players. Avery is at a place that many find themselves and just don’t know where to go. I loved this story and its message. Age is only a limitation if you place one on yourself. There is a great set of characters in this book. The author really did a great job putting them to paper.
A great read about trying again. After the death of her husband, Avery Elkins struggles with her feelings. When her son suggests a change of scenery, she is hesitant at first but soon decides it might help. When she does, she finds new friends and an exciting adventure of possibilities.
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Avery trying a new adventure while struggling with her feelings or Gabriel being brave while still looking after his daughters. Great supporting cast of friends like Rider and Teddie as fun loving people or Mark as a caring friend.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like the inside nautical elements of Gabriel’s house or the photos in Avery’s house. Or the natural imagery in the book like the sea and the sunset in a gentle beauty of reflection. I also loved the use of passion of reading and writing which was a lovely addition. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.
Awaking Avery by Laurie Lewis is the third book in the A Second Chance Romance Series. Be prepared to be taken on an emotional roller coaster ride. You can read Awaking Avery as a standalone but highly recommend reading the first two books as well, you will not be disappointed. The characters were well developed and very believable. The characters are easy to connect with and you felt the emotions that they went through. The writing flows with ease and is very engaging. I really enjoy the fact that the author showed you can have love again after a loss. I highly recommend Awaking Avery.
Awakening Avery is a story of love, loss, heartache, acceptance and moving on. This is the first time I have read work by Laurie Lewis, and it was a delightful change from what I am usually drawn to in a story
Avery suffered the heartbreaking and life altering loss of her husband and decided a change of scenery may help get her writing again. Also so the healing she needs can commence. This is a beautiful story faith, learning to live again after losing your soulmate, learning to love again and finding happiness. The author created a most wonderful and warm tale. 4 stars.
Awakening Avery by Laurie Lewis
4 stars
This was a really good book, that shows everyone grieves differently when tragedy strikes a family.
I connected with each character on a different level and that’s something ive never done with a book. They felt real, and authentic, and I went through their pain with them.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it is a must read!
Awakening Avery- Laurie Lewis
4-stars
Awakening Avery by Laurie Lewis is the third book in the Second Chance Romance series. This was my first book by this author, but it certainly won’t be my last as I enjoyed this book from start to finish. This is a truly emotional story about loss, heartache, new discoveries, faith and unexpected relationships. If you’re looking for a light and fun read this isn’t it, but this storyline is raw, real, emotional and heart wrenching in such a beautiful way. It’s a story that pulls you in and holds you captive with the realistic storyline with all the incredible detail.
I love how this author managed to include so many characters in a way that wasn’t overwhelming and was easy to follow along. I was able to connect with each character in a personal way. I definitely look forward to reading more from this author!
Awakening Avery (A Second Chance Romance Book 3) by Laurie Lewis
5 amazingly Awesome Stars
I’ve been staring at my screen for a few minutes trying to figure out the words I want to use to describe my love for this author. I have read many of her books and all of those in this series and I don’t know how she does it but she makes me think about things in every story she writes. She absolutely stole my heart in one of my favorite reads ever Love On A Limb, and I can say now that another has been added to that list. I don’t know what it is about her writing or her descriptions or her characters but she has a way of transporting me straight into the stories she writes. There aren’t words to describe this that I can think of, and it’s driving me crazy because I want people to read my reviews for this author and run straight out and buy every book she has ever written.
This story….so so real and so thoughtful, touching and you can tell she put everything into the telling of this story…Avery and Gabriel stole me away for the entire time I read this and into the day after I finished it. I usually jump right into another book when I complete one, but I couldn’t pick one up yesterday after finishing…This one left me needing time. Being a Mother and a Wife for well over half my life had me truly paying attention to every word in this story, and I can honestly say I had no idea where it was going or what was going to happen and I honestly didn’t care, I was just happy to be there.
I’m not going to sum this story up, her synopsis is perfect, what I will do is tell you if you haven’t read any of this author’s books you are severely missing out on one of the most talented writers I have ever experienced, and if stories ever deserve more than 5 stars its this authors in my opinion…There should be another rating scale for those that just take your breath away.
This series does not connect as a series normally does so you can read these in any order, just read them and don’t forget her others
All I can say is Thank you Laurie Lewis!!
Brilliant!!
Awakening Avery by Laurie Lewis is the third book in her A Second Chance Romance series. This is a clever and highly emotional book and one that I can honestly say you will enjoy reading.
Avery knows she is depressed. She knows she is struggling to move forward. She doesn’t need the doctor to tell her that. And yet she can’t seem to pull herself out of this new mind-set. She can’t seem to find a way to mourn her husband and move on.
Looking to find a way to heal her family Avery begins the process of selling one of the family homes. However, when she meets the real-estate due Teddie and Rider, her life takes a completely different turn. Instead of selling they convince her to take part in a short term house swap. They suggest that she change places with Gabriel, another widower with grown children.
Not knowing what she is about to let herself in for she agrees to the swap. And so begins the summer she could never have imagined. Gabriel’s children are completely different from her own. His whole life is completely different. And yet they are also oddly family – broken and lost. This summer could be exactly what Avery needs to find herself again and start the healing process she has been lacking until now.
I knew from the moment I read the blurb of this book that I would be good and I was certainly right. The emotions are there right from the start. My heart bled for Avery and how she knew she had to do something but couldn’t find the way to break out of her rut. I love the idea of a life swap for the summer – stepping into someone else’s shoes sounds like the best way to make you appreciate what you still have, instead of focusing on what you have lost. This was a new author for me but I enjoyed the way she told the story and how easy she drew you into Avery’s journey. A well crafted book and one I thoroughly enjoyed.
Fantastic read! Really touched my soul!
Loved it! You know that when you are exhausted at the end of a novel, that the author has done a pretty good job 🙂
Loved the characters, setting and storyline. It wasn’t just your typical ‘beach’ read, it was a thought-provoking novel with interesting themes and ideas explored. Avery and Gabriel are such beautiful characters! Loved the faith elements included as well. I appreciated how, for the characters, it wasn’t just a religion, but a relationship. The overall story flowed well with interesting developments along the way. I recommend this novel!
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Wow! This book was amazing! It touched my heart, gave me hope, made me cry, made me think about my own religious beliefs, and made me feel whole and happy when I read the last page. What a wonderful story about Avery and her family dealing with the death of her husband and her children’s father. The author really conveyed in such a realistic and poignant way how each family member reacted and dealt or did not deal with the death. It shows the true struggles all families go through on a daily basis. It was interesting to see the contrast between Avery’s family and their loss and to compare it to Gabriel’s family. I truly believe people show up in our lives for a reason and this was a big part of this story. This is one of the best books I have read this year. I know I am going to read it again!
This is the third book in this series and can be read as a standalone. I love this series, this is my favorite of the three. I love how this author is able to pull me right into the story with ease and hold my attention until the end. The characters are lovable and connectable. This story took me on an emotional roller coaster that had me laughing and crying. This book will show you that it is possible for there to be life after a loss. This is a must read!