Second Time Around (Book Review)

Scripture Connection

This is an instance where I don’t see a strong connection to a particular Scripture or spiritual theme. In the interest of disclosure, it has been almost a week since I finished the book, so I may be overlooking something.

Spiritual Themes

Mallory prays, here and there.

There’s a reference or two to people being more important than things.

What I Liked

I feel a sense of homecoming when reading a Melody Carlson novel. Although this was a spring/summer read, it was such a cozy reading experience. As usual, Carlson’s writing style was sweet and engaging, and the premise, narration and plot captured my interest, early on in the reading. I was looking forward to reading about Mallory’s Portside adventure, and very much enjoyed the experience. I often gobble up Melody Carlson books, and Second Time Around was no exception.

Although there is definitely a lot of repetition between books (i.e., frequent small town settings, interior design inclusion, similar characters), I like to read Carlson’s work and see how the variations in plot play out. Plus, these themes are fun! It’s exciting to walk alongside Mallory as she inherits a new shop and puts her interior design skills to use in a new way.

I like the small town setting, and I think the author does a great job walking readers through renovation/restoration plots. I also think there’s a big market for this sort of plot, judging by the number of home improvement TV shows. Carlson has a background in interior design, which shines through in her knowledge of the subject, and in her detailed descriptions of interiors.

The use of the “Romance” definition, alluding to mystery, was pretty cool. I had never heard such a definition, but I really liked it, and it made for a neat store name, too.

Content

Although Mallory is a Christian, there’s no indication that her love interest is.

Romance is “clean” in terms of physicality, with very little (and non-descriptive) kissing.

Respectful Discussion

There’s a certain scene where Mallory briefly feels bad about something she’s done, and is concerned she’s overstepped. I was surprised that we really didn’t get to hear more from Grayson, about this. It’s basically just Mallory feeling temporarily awkward, and then moving on with no further discussion. Carlson romances are often shallow, but I feel that this was a very obvious opportunity for (just a little) more development. That said, I really do enjoy these super light romances.

Recommendation Status

Although Melody Carlson has written many books, lending to some clear similarities between her books, I will say that I did very much enjoy Second Time Around. While it reads similarly to other small town books of hers (I’m thinking Dear Daphne, off the top of my head), I don’t have a problem with that because I do like her small town books. Recommended for readers who enjoy light romance with an interior design angle, or romance set in a small town. This would make a delightful beach read!