Wow, what a book! I love anything that Denise Hunter writes--- her stories are always the perfect blend of romance, heart and small-town charm. In this particular story though, we get to see some of the downsides of living in a small-town: like what happens when you're an outcast in that town. Gray and Shelby had such a beautiful romance... though certainly not one without its challenges. They were unlikely high school sweethearts, with him being judged by the town by his father's reputation, but things ended badly when he left town after graduation. Years later, when they have to work together to save the bookshop that Shelby's grandmother unexpected left to both of them, all of those old feelings start to resurface... right along with the old challenges. I really love a good second chance romance, and this one was done so well. The story alternates between their high school romance and the present day, and I loved seeing them fall in love for the first time but also seeing their personal growth as well. I couldn't help but feel for Gray and all that he'd gone through... it made seeing them get this second chance at a happily ever after all that much sweeter. If you love a Christian romance with small-town drama, fantastic chemistry, and a hard fought happily ever after, this is absolutely one not to be missed.

**ARC received via Netgalley for consideration. All opinions are my own.

The Second Story Bookshop pulled me right in with the rich smell of books and the sounds of turning pages. This sweet, second chance romance will grab your attention and keep you until the very last page. I loved meeting and following the rekindling love story of Shelby and Grey. When her grandmother leaves the bookshop to both Shelby and Grey, will they be able to put aside past problems and work together to save the shop? This book has all the feels and a perfect story book ending. I give it 5 stars and highly recommend it. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and am writing this review voluntarily.

Denise Hunter is brilliant! I was hooked from page one. The plot was well-paced and captivating from start to finish. The characters were lovely with growth and development. This is definitely one I'll read again! Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book.

I have always loved reading Denise Hunter’s books and this one is no different. This was an easy read with a great ending. I really enjoyed reading this story! I would highly recommend this book to anyone that loves wholesome books! "I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter. I love her books. Great second chance romance for bullied and misjudged Gray and Shelby the new owner of the bookstore after her grandmother passing. Heartwarming healing for both characters. Great beach read or just curl up on your couch and enjoy. Thank you to #NetGalley and #ThomasNelson Fiction for this Arc. This is my honest review. Releases Oct 7 2025

Shelby inherits
her grandmother's bookstore, but her grandmother also left half to Gray, the man that broke Shelby's heart. can they work together?

Being an avid reader and lover of books, I really enjoyed THE SECOND STORY BOOKSHOP by DENISE HUNTER. The author has told a story about small town living against the background of Selby Thatcher’s Gram’s beloved bookstore, which her ex-boyfriend, “bad boy” Grayson Briggs, is trying to help her save…..
Gray’s return to Grandville, North Carolina, has brought out the worst in the people of Grandville who cannot seem to forget his father’s sins or Gray’s alleged cheating at school. When things become really dangerous for him, and Selby and her family by association, he sees no choice but to leave the town that hates him…..
The characters are memorable and their emotions well portrayed. This is a story about truth against lies, the power of love, and second chances.
I highly recommend this most enjoyable read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

I loved the setting of the main character working in/eventually owning a bookstore. This is a great example of the second chance romance trope done in a very tasteful way. This is one of my new favorites from Denise Hunter.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Boy! Was I happy to see another novel by Denise Hunter! She's just such an amazing storyteller that I couldn't put this story down! I didn't want it to end.
I loved Shelby and Gray from the moment I opened their story. They were a delight in getting to know.
The setting was perfect since I love books so very much! I love a bookstore setting. Feels like home to me.
2nd chance romance are right up my alley so I knew I'd love this story and I did!!
I did have to snicker in some places though. Some scenes were just too cute.
However; there are a few tough subjects that Hunter has done well in making them realistic.
I definitely don't like these things either. It makes me sad and angry whenever I see it done to others. This is what makes parts of the story sad for me.
I'm giving this book 5 stars for keeping me entertained all the way through. I highly recommend.
My thanks for a wonderful read. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Fantastic Romantic Fiction! Loved this book so much! Even quoted from the book to my husband on our anniversary " Mature love grows deeper, stronger, with a beauty all its own." Another sigh worthy story with a message! Definitely worth the read. This book was provided by the author and publisher through NetGalley. All thoughts expressed are my own opinions.

As with all of Denise Hunter's books. I loved it. This is about Shelly who loves working in the charming bookstore that grandmother owned in the Lakeside town of Granville. When Gram [asses away she leaves 51% of the Bookstore to Sheely and 49% to Gray. He and Shelly were friends when in high school and Gram really cared for Gray. Gray wasn't accepted well in town as his dad killed someone there. Gray joined the military and then made a name for himself in the town of River Bend. . He came back to town to help Shelly get the bookshop on track, See what they go through and does he finally get acceptance in town. Does he and Shelly end up together. A GREAT READ.

You just can't go wrong with a Denise Hunter book! I adored this sotry with it's lovable characters, second chance romance, reconciliations and justice finally happening. Of course, saving the inherited bookshop in NC (my home state) is a huge bonus too. Great book with a great message!

Denise Hunter has such a brilliant skill in engaging her readers with relatable characters and life situations. The path for Shelby and Gray was beyond difficult and it seemed that their only support was Shelby's deceased grandmother, in life and beyond the grave. 'The Second Story Bookshop' is a tender story of redemption portrayed personally and in a larger sense from a community. I shed some tears and would highly recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

I've always loved Denise Hunters's books and this is one of her best ones yet. defintely 5 stars!!! Would recommend to friends and family!

Denise Hunter, this book is absolutely charming!! And one of my new favorites from you. I adore your sweet writing. It was beautiful.

Shelby and Gray’s story is very emotional. Amazing characters, loss, second chances, family, a small town and many challenges all make this a book you won’t be able to sit aside.

This was a very sweet summer/beachy read! While I have not read much by Denise Hunter, I don't think of her for action or suspense, so the bit of intensity near the end was a surprise but it fit perfectly into the story when everything is revealed.

I love books about bookshops. I love second chances. So this book had a lot going for it before I even started! One of my far-out dreams is to own a bookshop but until then, I'll settle for reading about them. This one has a brilliant title and I loved how the name holds multiple meanings! It's so clever and fun.

This book has some flashbacks and I felt like the back and forth between past and present was very well done. I appreciated actually getting the backstory rather than just having the characters allude to it. I think it added depth to the challenges and the characters to see the past play out on the page.

Shelby and Gray were wonderful characters. I also liked Caleb and Liddy, especially when it came to them interacting in Shelby's life.

I'd say that, overall, this book was sweet and wholesome. Yes there are several descriptions of Gray's physique and lots of passion to the kissing, but personally, I was okay with it for the sake of the whole story. It wasn't enough to keep me from reading it again. But it is there and I wanted to mention it for the people who need to be careful of those things.

Denise Hunter can certainly write an entertaining tale. I've read a few of her books, and this one didn't disappoint. Hunter is an autobiy author for me!

The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter is about former high school sweethearts, Shelby and Gray. When Shelby's grandmother dies she leaves behind the bookshop that she ran with Shelby. Shelby is surprised to find out that she only inherited 51% of the bookshop and Gray inherits the other 49%. The relationship between them ended poorly and Shelby wants nothing to do with him but she takes up his offer to stay and help for a little while since he is good at business, a skill she lacks.
This is a very sweet and easy read that could easily be transformed into a Hallmark film. The chemistry between Shelby and Gray is palpable even through the pages of the book. You learn what happened between the two of them in their youth through periodic flashbacks. I really felt bad for the character of Gray due to the way the town treats him even though he did nothing to deserve it. The ending of the book was beautiful and made me tear up a bit while reading.

Shelby and Gray…an amusing grandmother…love and romance…a bookstore…this favorite talented author has woven a story that is thoughtful and reflective. I liked this novel…a page turner. Spend an afternoon in this bookstore with this couple…thanks Netgalley.

📚✨ Review: The Second Story Bookshop by @deniseahunter
🎧 + 📖 = Cozy perfection
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

What an absolute joy and blessing it was to receive an ARC of this book. I had been highly anticipating this one, so when I saw it in my inbox, I may have squealed just a little. I couldn’t wait to dive in, and it did not disappoint.
(Thank you @netgalley @thomasnelson for the arc!)

This story was everything I love in a cozy romance: sweet, emotional, and full of that small-town charm Denise Hunter does so well. Shelby and Gray’s second-chance love story tugged at my heart in all the right ways, and the bookshop setting made it feel even more special like I was being wrapped in a soft, bookish hug.

I had the best of both worlds with this one reading the ARC and listening to the audiobook and I genuinely loved both experiences. The narrator brought so much heart and warmth to the story. She didn’t just tell it she felt it and made each emotional moment land just right.

Also… I may or may not have dropped my Kindle on my face trying to stay awake and read one more chapter. Worth it. 😂

If you’re like me and love second-chance romances, cozy bookshop settings, and stories with heart (and no spice!), this one deserves a spot on your fall reading list. It’s tender, uplifting, and exactly what I needed.

🧡 Truly grateful to have gotten an early copy of this gem—it’ll be one I revisit again.

Be sure to look for it October 7th 2025!!

This author has captured my heart with her writing and also the characters in this book, I could not put it down once i started reading.

When Shelby Thatcher arrives for the reading of her beloved grandmother’s will, she is shocked to discover that her former high school boyfriend, Gray Briggs, is also in attendance. Their breakup had been painful, and they hadn’t seen each other in years; Shelby had vowed never to speak to him again.
Having worked at her grandmother’s bookshop since high school, Shelby had helped transform it into a cherished haven for book lovers in their small town of Grandville, NC. To her surprise, she learns that she has inherited 51% of the bookshop, while Gray receives 49%. After graduating high school, Gray left town and never returned—his past marked by bullying and the stigma surrounding his family. His father is serving a prison sentence for the murder of a prominent local figure, and his mother passed away when he was very young, leaving him to be raised by his grandmother, who was a close friend of Shelby's grandmother.
Gray quickly agrees that the bookshop should belong solely to Shelby and willingly signs over his 49%. However, when unexpected issues arise regarding the bookstore, Gray offers to stay and help her resolve them. As they work together, they uncover more problems than they anticipated, forcing both Shelby and Gray to confront their past and their lingering feelings for each other.
This captivating story is filled with emotional ups and downs. While old feelings begin to surface with both Shelby and Gray, the same problems remain as well.
Every book by Dennis Hunter captures my heart and attention right from the start. I could hardly put this book down until the last page was turned, and even now this heartfelt story lingers.

First of all, I absolutely love it when there is more to the title than what meets the eye!! I’m not going to spoil what that little nugget is however. It’s a great life lesson.

Denise Hunter’s last few books have gone up to a whole other level. Her books are always good and very enjoyable. These last few, though, have reached CANNOT MISS A THING SHE WRITES status!

I immediately felt connected to the main character, Shelby, through the close relationship she had with her late grandmother. She also loves books, reading, family, friends, and her man.

Sometimes life circumstances can be rough. Some people jump to conclusions, bully, and push their power around. This is central to this story and this community. It’s the catalyst for Shelby and Gray’s relationship breaking up the first time when they were 18.

When the will of Shelby’s late grandma’s will pushes them together, it’s not pretty. But they become drawn together to save the bookshop. The shadows and completely unfair attitudes of the past are still at large all these years later.

Since I just read the first 3 books of the author’s Riverbend series in the last few months, it was fun to have those main characters mentioned at points during the story.

This novel kept me engaged throughout and I think it’s a beautiful story. I strongly recommend this book! The ending and epilogue left my heart full as well as my eyes. With tears. The best kind.

*** Huge thanks to Thomas Nelson and Net Galley for providing me with an advanced digital copy. My honest review is in my own words.

“The Second Story Bookshop” was a delight to read, with an easy-to-follow story of two individuals working together to revive a family-run book store after a huge loss. It was great to experience this story, and the characters and the story arc were well-written and easy to follow. I would recommend it as an enjoyable and uplifting read.

I was completely charmed by The Second Story Bookshop. As someone who loves small-town romances and second chances, this book hit all the right notes. The story follows Shelby Thatcher, who inherits her beloved grandmother’s cozy bookshop in Granville, North Carolina, only to discover she must share ownership with Gray Briggs, the ex who broke her heart years ago.

Shelby is warm, determined, and deeply rooted in her community, while Gray is the classic misunderstood outsider trying to make amends. Watching them navigate their shared past, the town’s judgment, and the future of the bookshop was both heartwarming and emotionally satisfying. There’s tension, tenderness, and just the right amount of drama to keep the pages turning.

I really enjoyed this contemporary romance. I loved the flashbacks to senior year. The reader gets the back love story of Gray and Shelby. The narrator was wonderful and were easy to listen to. There are no swears or alcohol and level 2 kisses only. I received a complimentary copy from @Netgalley and @thomasnelson. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I love Denise Hunter books so much and I read quite a few during my local library’s Summer Reading program so I was extremely excited to read this when I saw it available on NetGalley! One thing I love about Denise Hunter books is there’s absolutely no chance of the Lord’s name taken in vain or F-bombs being thrown! Those are the two things I won’t allow in the books I read or the tv I watch!

The Second Story Bookshop
by Denise Hunter
Pub Date: October 7, 2025
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
A wonderful read! I fell in love with this book from the first page. The characters are relatable and of course to me a book about a bookshop is a win!!
I highly recommend this book for those who enjoy the clean writing of Hunter.
5 stars

The Second Story Bookshop is all the things I have come to love and expect from Denise Hunter’s love stories. Intriguing story with depth, well developed characters, poignancy and strong emotions, and heartfelt romance that touches on all the right places. Shelby and Gray have a genuinely deep love for one another and have since they first met; it’s a one of a kind, once in a lifetime kind of love. All the odds were stacked against them when they were young and sadly, they caved and let it go. I am so glad there is room for second chances because these two deserve it. I love Gray as a character. He has been handed a terrible hand in life and even in that, he continues to work hard and rise above. Shelby is fiercely loyal to her family and her bookshop and wants nothing more than to continue her grandma’s legacy. The immediate chemistry between these two is palpable and I love how the story takes place in modern day with flashbacks to tell their backstory. Gray continues to show up and help, because it’s the right thing to and because he’s desperate to offer his apology to Shelby. She may not want to hear what he has to say, but her grandma knew she needed it for closure. I love the way he showed up, even when everyone was against him. I love how Shelby saw what no one else could see and championed for him. I loved the way they were willing to stand up to everyone for what was right and, in the end, as it should, love always wins. There are so many feelings and emotions and tender moments of raw love, and I could not get enough of these two.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley, and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

I am a huge Denise Hunter fan and this book definitely did not disappoint!!
If you don’t believe in soulmates, Gray and Shelby will definitely have you rethinking that! This book does cover some tough topics (TW for bullying) and I found myself frustrated with the town and the way they treated Gray. Denise wove such a beautiful story of love and hope and healing.. and best of all it centered around a bookshop left to the both of them by Shelby’s Grandmother.
Perfect for lovers of second chance, small town vibes, clean romance, and lots of character growth and depth.

Thank you Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for this ARC. These views are entirely my own!

Wow! A page turner full of a,second chance love story and a second chance bookstory. I got an advanced reader copy from the author, publisher, and Netgalley. I highly recommend you read this if you like clean love stories and second chances.

“The Second Story Bookshop” is a sweet tale of “second stories” in people’s lives. Denise Hunter has written a story full of characters that readers will love and others that readers will love to hate. The plot is excellent, with enough momentum to keep the story flowing steadily without it feeling rushed. Shelby and Gray have a history, and as you read through this story in the present, the author gives us glimpses of their past together. Shelby’s father and brother have some struggles in their relationship, and the author did such a great job of giving us glimpses of that struggle, and then really bringing some of those issues full-circle and walking them through it in a way that we as readers got to “be there,” while also not having that part of the story bog us down and derail us from the larger plot. There is a deeper theme in this story besides everyone getting a second story, and that is one of not judging others based on past family mistakes and on the content of gossip rather than facts. I loved the way the past events were woven into the present to keep us informed well, just when we needed it, while also not overwhelming us with a huge information load right at the beginning of the story. I thought it was nice to have Gram’s little words of wisdom or tough encouragement sprinkled throughout the story, too. I highly recommend this book. It is a wonderful literary escape that is not just all fluff, but also causes the reader to think a bit and maybe grow as an individual as well.

I loved this read, filled with emotions, and injustice. We follow the main characters through high school, and then ten years beyond, when their story starts again.
As the story opens Shelby's beloved Grandmother has passed away, she worked daily with her running the bookstore. Her old boyfriend is back in town, and then shows up at the reading of her Grandmother's will! What is going on?
As we journey with Gray, we learn how hard his life has been, and the reasons why he left town. I wanted justice here, not fair!
Gray has a deal with Shelby, and he is helping to turn around the bookstore. We also meet a darling baby, and a dog that worms his way into their hearts.
Keep page turning, as things go from bad to worse, if possible.
I loved the epilogue, and looking forward to my next Denise Hunter read!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.

The Second Story Bookshop by Denise Hunter - oh my! A swoon worthy male main character in Gray. A female main character in Shelby who pulls for the underdog. Can they have a second chance? So many twists and turns with past hurts. Can forgiveness be possible? Loved this one.

Releases Oct. 7th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

When Shelby Thatcher's grandmother passes away she learns that she has been given her little bookstore, which isn't entirely unexpected, but the brought that is unexpected is that she won't be running the store alone. Her grandmother decided to give half of the store to the guy that Shelby would rather not have anything to do with...as he is the man that broke her heart a long time ago.

The Second Story Bookshop is a beautifully penned story of healing, hope, forgiveness, acceptance, and rekindling lost love. Shelby and Gray have a past that holds a lot of hurt, and her grandmother knew the only way they'd heal from it would be to face it head on. So she created a way for that to happen, and while Shelby is appreciative for the bookstore she isn't so happy about the co-owner she'll be running it with. Being in the same room as Gray is a special kind of torture, he was the boy she thought she'd spend forever with, and he wound up walking away instead. How do you forgive someone for that? For breaking your heart so deeply? Good thing they have an angel on their side to help them get through it.

This book really hit it's intended mark for me. It was captivating, sweet and had many moments that touched my heart! Highly recommend!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, via NetGalley request, and I am leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.

as soon as i saw this book i new i wanted to read it. no questions asked. as soon as i saw that name...DENISE HUNTER i knew i neeeeeded to read this book. so when i was lucky enough to get to do so all other books were put aside on my tbr pile and she went straight to the top. Denise is my go-to never fails becoming a fast favourite author. her words, her work is stunning. after finishing the summer of you and me and being totally blown away by it i was eager and excited for what was to come.
and i am soooooo glad i get the privilege to say wahooo this one was just as beautiful and just as solid in the heart tugging and heart healing books.
i was captivated from the moment i read the first lines. meeting Shelby was just like with all Denise's characters a new win and how to write characters. we are bought to her story when her grandmother passes away and she learns she has inherited her bookstore. but there is a caveat as her grandmother has left half the store to someone else. and thats the kicker. because the other half has been left to someone she doesn't want half of anything with not least because her broke her heart in in half, no pieces, once upon a time.
but these two have a past. and one meeting again clearly a now. and boy do we want their future too! seems her grandmother new a thing or two, and this little plan of hers was her own way, her own gift to them both. of course Shelby is not happy. who would be? being with Gray again is awful for her. he walked away from her once, she loved him, she was planing her future with him. you can only just get through that. she certainly cant forgive it....
can time heal? can hope heal? can second chances happen?
i love this new small town book. the writing of the central and side characters are all fab. and the themes alongside the plot go hand in hand but never over take each other. i love how when we get to know the side of Gray and how is and was treated so much of his story opens up. and its truly once again that age old line of we dont truly know whats going on for anybody. and also how to let people in. walk a mile in another shoes and all that...
there was hard work done in this book. some serious mountains climbed and some gentle understanding given.
this is another delight from Denise. i say it once again how lucky i feel to read her work. its just wonderful. and it truly makes me smile and then feel ever so lucky to be someone who can read, get job, and get escape from books.

I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

As an avid reader, how could I not choose this book to read! From the very beginning, I immediately fell in love with the feel of the bookshop. I adored how the author added other author names and book titles into her own work. I enjoyed this book immensely. The author has such a way of wrapping you up in the lives of Gray and Shelley, and telling their backstory while also unfolding the events of the book. If you love bookshops, as well as a sweet romance, then this book is for sure for you!!

The Second Story Bookshop has a sweet setting in the lakeside town of Granville, North Carolina. The bookshop was Shelby's Gram's "second story" after her husband passed. Now that Gram is gone too, Shelby is left with 51% of the business and surprisingly, her high school boyfriend Gray was given the other 49%. They've been apart for years but now must come together to get the bookshop out of debt amidst her family's skepticism that Gray is really a good guy who just wants to help. He has such a bad history with the town...nevertheless, with The Second Story Bookshop we're getting a sweet contemporary romance with a hero who Shelby really can trust! I couldn't wait to read it and I bet if you like a clean romance as much as I do, you'll find it just as captivating!

Kim Churchill did a wonderful job narrating this book.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read/ listen to this book. All opinions are my own.

Publication date: 7 October 2025

I am a huge Denise Hunter fan. Her latest, The Second Story Bookshop was another wonderful read. It’s available soon.

Ok, hear me out! Not a religious person nor am I really a soft romance girly BUT THIS, THIS BOOK! I love a good romance with tension, an underdog, and a its been you this whole time scenario. Throw in a small town, a bookstore and you have me hooked which is what I was. I listened to and read this book. It was great, easily a 5 star in my opinion. Sometimes you just need a low to no spice physical romance book. So if you have a thoughts and feeling face, don’t want people looking the other way while you are in public then this is it. Or maybe you are like me, you have kids and your reading is listening to audiobooks in the car then this is it. Thank you Denise Hunter for a great read/listen!

This may be my favorite Denise Hunter book of all-time! This book is worthy of 10 stars! It is a beautiful story of first love, family, heartbreak, grace, and second chances. I found it brought all the emotions in me causing me to devour the book, and I hated to see it end!

Shelby and Gray are high school sweethearts who are torn apart by life circumstances that leaves Shelby with a broken heart and her family jaded against Gray. When Shelby’s Gram dies, her spirit lives on when she meddles in their lives by the reading of her will. Gray’s return to town forces him and Shelby to face their pasts and a very unforgiving town.

Filled with lovable characters that bring this story to life, some will have you laughing others ready to yell at them. Beautifully written to drawn you in from the beginning to the very end. It is one of those books that leaves you smiling and feeling like it was time well spent when you turn the page.

This book is absolutely wonderful and a must read! It is one I see myself reading again and again. Definitely one of Hunter’s best!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

This is a great story of forgiveness and second chances! Good character development and the story has a pull to keep you guessing how things will come together. I love the refreshing dialogue and humanness portrayed throughout the story.

Wow! This is my new favorite read. Denise Hunter did a great job with this heartwarming read. Shelby and Gray’s rocky relationship is heartbreaking and heartwarming. Characters are spot on. Mason and Brendon Remington are nefarious and needed a take down. Justice and redemption comes. I can see this as a spin off of more books to come. I want to know more about Grays father after parole. Haley is a book in herself. Shelby’s dad needs his ever after. Shelby’s mother leaves a story untold. Caleb and Libby have a story to be unearthed. Hopefully there will be spinoff’s to bring these characters stories to light. Recommend strongly. I was given an advanced reader copy of this very well written book by NetGalley and I am freely sharing my review. #netgalley @netgalley #denisehunter @denisehunter #harpercollinspublishing @harpercollinspublishing

Such a cute read! I love the cozy second chance romance and of course the bookstore setting is adorable! Definitely recommend for a light feel good story.

The second story bookshop was such a sweet story. It was romantic, enjoyable, and the characters had great chemistry. I found myself quickly getting attached to the story, and at first I found it to be a little quirky for my taste, but after a few pages I couldn’t put it down! I read it in about 4 days (which is fast for me being a busy mom), and I would recommend it to my followers! The conflict in the story was believable, and I loved the description of some of the details (like the author described baby Ollie) and the description of the settings, most specifically the bookstore. The imagery was so vivid that I was easily able to envision it and the changes they made. Hailey’s character development was probably my favorite and I hope other readers enjoy that little bonus. Shelby also demonstrated great character growth throughout the story, which I compare it to how the book started vs how it ended. I really enjoyed her pov but I probably enjoyed Grays a lot more haha!

I can always count on a Denise Hunter book to get me out of a reading funk and this one was no exception. May be a new favorite! I loved Shelby and Gray’s story set at the second story bookstore (such an appropriate name). My heart ached for all Gray had gone through throughout his life and it was so nice to see how he kept the faith and rose above it all. An absolute wonderful book! Highly recommend!

*I received an e-ARC copy from Netgalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

First off thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the opportunity to read and review this book. These thoughts are that of my own.

This book in my opinion was a wonderful cozy read by Denise Hunter. I have read many books by her and always enjoy the novels she comes out with. This one I felt was perfect! I always love books about bookstores - they bring the epic feelings of coziness that is very much needed. This book has a bit of a catch - when Shelby grandmother passed away she left the bookstore to Shelby and to Gray. Gray was not really accepted well into the small town and he had broke Shelby heart many years prior. Like a trick put on by her belated Grandmother they end up having to meet together again. Over time they have to work through their differences. I really enjoyed the whole story line. It was a light enjoyable read and would recommend it to anyone who looking for a cozy romance to read. I honestly look forward to Denise Hunter books! I can't wait to see what's next!

Absolutely loved this story. Any story set in a bookshop always gets me to want to read it. This story of old loves, small town gossip, and a grandma loved, brings all the warm feelings. Loved this love story again and the saving of the bookshop along with a town bully causing trouble.

I read The Second Story Bookshop in one sitting, avidly devouring it. It had layers of emotions and character development that made it a compelling and addictive read.
I loved all the different aspects of this story - second changes, connection, bullying (didn't love that one so much), redemption and forgiveness, overcoming the past and love. Gray and Shelby loved as a teenager but it all ended badly and here they are 11 years later meeting again. Shelby has to trust Gray against her and her family's instincts. Gray is determined to show Shelby who he is now and that he is worthy of her trust. Their relationship isn't helped by the interference of a town who knows how to hold a grudge and believes all the rumours that circled 11 years earlier.
I loved this book - it was an easy, sweet read that had me feeling all the emotions and enjoying the drama and romance. 
I received a complimentary copy of this book thanks to Thomas Nelson Fiction and Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Shelby Thatcher has worked at her grandmother's bookstore for years. After her grandmother's sudden passing, Shelby finds herself at the lawyer's office, where she is shocked to see Gray Briggs—the man who broke her heart years ago. Gray has been given 49 percent ownership of the bookstore. He left town at 18 after enduring years of harassment from the townspeople. While Gray doesn’t want the bookstore, he wants to explain to Shelby the real reason he left. He agrees to sign over his share to her and offers to help her make the bookstore profitable again.

However, the people who drove him away years ago are still set on getting rid of him and start harassing him again. When the townspeople begin boycotting the store because of Gray’s involvement, it becomes clear that the truth about what happened years ago needs to come to light.

A sweet second-chance romance. Small town has their positive and negative sides shown. Bullying has repercussions. A heartwarming story. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

I could hardly wait to read The Second Story Bookshop. Denise Hunter has long been an auto-read author for me. And I don’t see that changing.

The book is built around Shelby, who has been the creative force behind her grandma’s bookstore. When Gram dies, Shelby inherits the store, but to her horror, she becomes joint owner with Gray, the man who broke her heart right before skipping town.

Denise Hunter is remarkably talented at pulling her readers in to caring about her characters, and I love a good underdog. I felt Shelby’s pain, and Gray’s quiet agony as the towns people vilify him for hurting one of their own. But there’s a backbone of honor running through Gray and I was on his side throughout.

If you like small town romances, or tropes where exes rekindle after overcoming significant obstacles then this is a book you should definitely read.

I received a copy of The Second Story Bookshop from the publisher via NetGalley. The enjoyment is all my own.

The first Denise Hunter book I ever read was Sweetbriar Cottage. Since then I have read every book she's written, and I always wait with bated breath for the next one to arrive. Yes, she's that good! Every book tugs heart strings, tying them in knots, then changes those knots to neat, tidy bows. I love her books so much!

The Second Story Bookshop brings together childhood sweethearts Shelby Thatcher and Gray Briggs. Shelby is the hometown sweetheart, and Gray is the town bad boy. Shelby has worked side-by-side with her grandmother to make the Second Story Bookshop the local hub, so when her grandmother dies she expects to inherit the shop outright. She is stunned to learn that Gray Briggs inherited half of the store, too. Why would her grandmother leave the store to the man who walked out on Shelby before he even graduated? They were in love, planning to be married as soon as they graduated, but he walked without ever talking to her. What could have brought him back?

As Shelby and Gray work together, their feelings begin to rekindle. but the closer they become, the more desperate someone is to drive him out of town. Can he stay in the town that has been suspicious of him and his family all his life? When real danger arrives on his doorstep, will walking away again keep Shelby and her family safe?

Told in a dual time period manner, The Second Story Bookshop has everything I look for in a romance. The main characters are shown as teens who started as friends, and defied the odds and Gray's unwarranted reputation, to start planning a life together. It travels the ups and downs and gives glimpses of the thoughts behind their actions. By the end of the book, I was pulling for them to stay together, and I wanted to smack everyone in that town for being so blind!

Readers who love contemporary romance that slips into the past periodically and delivers every emotion need to pick up The Second Story Bookshop. If this is your first Denise Hunter book, you're in for a treat, and like me, you'll be looking for her other books to binge on!

I received this book AND the audio version as well through NetGalley, but every opinion here is mine!

The Second Story Bookshop is in Grandville, North Carolina. Shelby Thatcher inherits the shop from her grandmother who opened this many years ago. Viola Thatcher wanted something to keep herself busy after her husband passed away. While Shelby was in high school she worked at the shop to help her Gram. But it turns out the bookshop was left to two people. Shelby getting 51% and to Gray Briggs who gets 49%. Now what did Gram have in mind when she made this choice. I think Gram had a plan that she hoped would work out. You see Gray Briggs was a boyfriend in high school, he broke her heart then. But he left town suddenly for many reasons. He came back for Gram's funeral as he had a special place in his heart for her. She helped him out in time of need while in high school. Turns out his Grandma was best friends with Gram too.

So Shelby tired to get the shop back in her name only. But soon discovering she did not know all the goings on to run the shop. How did Gram budget the incoming and outgoing of the finances for shop? Soon learning she needed help, and it was Gray's help she needed. You see he had a degree in accounting. To his surprise how Gram took care of the books was not in Shelby's favor. Monies were taken from one place to help another part of the business, this made things so confusing. All this had to be changed for the success of the bookshop.

I wanted to read this book because of the title, my love for books and reading them. Being I have read other books penned by Denise Hunter, I knew I would love it. Thank you to Denise Hunter, Harper Collins Christen Publishing and Net Galley for giving me the opportunity to read it. It was so hard to put down each morning and evening.

As a fan of Denise Hunter’s writing, I was very happy to read her new book, The Second Story Bookshop. As always, her books warm my soul. I know they are written from a Christian viewpoint and that they will be a safe place. Although issues will arise within the pages, she can always find a way for a happy ending.

This story takes place in a small town where there are definite upper- and lower-class statuses. People judging others and forming opinions based on false gossip and economic levels. It was refreshing to read that not all the townspeople were small minded. A few stand out and stand up for the wrongly accused.

This is a second chance at love story and also, a friends to romance. I like these genres very much. I read a few reviews by readers prior to reading this book and it was brought up that there was ‘cheating’ involved in the plot. I do not believe that. If someone is dating causally and no promises are made for a future together (and who does that seriously in high school anyhow), if they meet up (to talk) with someone else to get to know them, I do not consider that cheating. To each their own opinion, though. I think that reviewer might be dealing with personal issues that I never did, so I will agree to disagree with them.

I honestly was wondering how this book would end happy, since I thought there was no way that this small town, full of prejudice against a harmless child/adult (for the sins of his father), would come around and change their opinions. I have to say that the plot was believable and satisfying.

A sincere thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for giving me the pleasure of reading the advance reader copy, with no obligation to write a review. My review is written freely as a hobby, and is totally my own opinion, not influenced by receiving the ARC.

When Shelby's beloved grandma passes away, Shelby is in for the shock of her life. Shelby's grandma leaves a 49% interest in the store to Shelby's ex-boyfriend, Gray. There are more secrets that will be revealed as Gray steps in to help Shelby with the financial part of running the book store. This is another great book by Denise Hunter. This book is about love, family, forgiveness, hope and redemption. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #secondstorybookshop #thomasnelson

This is another great book by Denise Hunter! I’m not going to summarize it because that has already been done, but my favorite character is, of course, Grayson Briggs! He’s obviously handsome, but he’s also got unflappable integrity. Even though he is bullied and treated unfairly he never stoops to the bully’s level. He never lashes out in anger. I also enjoyed Phoebe Bell’s unabashed adoration of Gray. She cracked me up! My favorite scene in the book was the town council meeting. I’ll leave it at that because I don’t want to give spoilers.

Let me just give one piece of advice: if you see Denise Hunter’s name on a book, read it!

I received an advanced readers copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.