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Last Chance #4
Last Chance Christmas
Dear Reader,
I've been wishing for a miracle for my oldest boy, Stone, and this Christmas my prayers might just be answered!
Her name is Lark, and she's here in Last Chance, looking into her father's past-and stirring up a whole mess of trouble without meaning to. As the chief of police, Stone sure has his hands full trying to keep up with her. Ever since his wife died, Stone's put everything into raising his daughters and dodging the Christ Church Ladies' Auxiliary matchmakers. And it's clear Lark has been through some trouble and could use a place to finally call home. I only hope Stone can let go of the past soon enough to keep her . . .
Goodness, I need to stop talking and finish up Jane's highlights so we can make the town tree-lighting. You come back by because the Cut 'n' Curl's got hot rollers, free coffee, fresh-baked Christmas cookies-and the best gossip in town.
See you real soon,
Ruby Rhodes
I've been wishing for a miracle for my oldest boy, Stone, and this Christmas my prayers might just be answered!
Her name is Lark, and she's here in Last Chance, looking into her father's past-and stirring up a whole mess of trouble without meaning to. As the chief of police, Stone sure has his hands full trying to keep up with her. Ever since his wife died, Stone's put everything into raising his daughters and dodging the Christ Church Ladies' Auxiliary matchmakers. And it's clear Lark has been through some trouble and could use a place to finally call home. I only hope Stone can let go of the past soon enough to keep her . . .
Goodness, I need to stop talking and finish up Jane's highlights so we can make the town tree-lighting. You come back by because the Cut 'n' Curl's got hot rollers, free coffee, fresh-baked Christmas cookies-and the best gossip in town.
See you real soon,
Ruby Rhodes
332 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 25, 2012
About the author
Hope Ramsay
36 books560 followersHope Ramsay is a USA Today bestselling author of heartwarming contemporary romances, set below the Mason-Dixon Line. Her children are grown, but she has a beloved fur baby, Daisy the Cockapoo who keeps her entertained. Hope lives in the medium-sized town of Fredericksburg, Virginia and when she’s not writing or walking the dog, she spends her time knitting and noodling around on her collection of guitars.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
December 7, 2023
Short take: small town, a little bit of mystery, a little bit of drama, some social issues, and an ending that's a bit out there.
Follows a woman named Lark who shows up at Last Chance to fulfill her late father's wishes for his ashes scattered on a Golfing for God course when she runs into some resistance from the townspeople. Something happened with her father when he visited Last Chance, a secret Lark, and the chief of police Stone tried to uncover. A secret that some people just want to keep hidden.
It was cute. The story was easy to follow. There were some Christmas elements and a lot of religious elements. The ending was a bit out there for me.
The romance I was unsure of, especially towards the end as Stone was still very much not over his late wife and kept repeating that he was not in love with Lark and wasn't sure about that. Two chapters later he is proclaiming his love. Felt a little out of the left field... Didn't enjoy that part.
Follows a woman named Lark who shows up at Last Chance to fulfill her late father's wishes for his ashes scattered on a Golfing for God course when she runs into some resistance from the townspeople. Something happened with her father when he visited Last Chance, a secret Lark, and the chief of police Stone tried to uncover. A secret that some people just want to keep hidden.
It was cute. The story was easy to follow. There were some Christmas elements and a lot of religious elements. The ending was a bit out there for me.
The romance I was unsure of, especially towards the end as Stone was still very much not over his late wife and kept repeating that he was not in love with Lark and wasn't sure about that. Two chapters later he is proclaiming his love. Felt a little out of the left field... Didn't enjoy that part.
January 3, 2024
I discovered the Last Chance series and Hope Ramsay’s heartwarming and whimsical small town romances by reading the Last Chance Book Club, book five in the series. I always meant to go back for the earlier books in the series. Finally, a readathon challenge provided me the impetus to do it with Last Chance Christmas.
Last Chance Christmas is the fifth of the standalone romances in the Last Chance series. This is a series connection, particularly through the early books b/c each Rhodes family sibling gets their romance, but I think it’s more nice than not necessary to get them in order.
Last Chance Christmas is the oldest Rhodes’ sibling, Stone’s story. Stone is a widower and the Last Chance police chief. He’s still emotionally tangled up in his guilt and grief over his wife’s death years before so that he has no desire for another relationship and struggles to connect with his two girls even. Into his life comes Lark, a war journalist suffering from PTSD and her own emotional traumas. Lark Chaikin has come to Last Chance to fulfill her estranged father’s final request to have his ashes scattered at the Golfing for God miniature golf course Stone’s granddad built and his dad is having renovated.
Lark’s arrival stirs up an old mystery surrounding Stone’s granddad’s death and her dad’s involvement in it and some old racial tensions of the time. Stone isn’t thankful for the extra trouble she brings or the way she’s forcing him to face his unresolved grief. Meanwhile, Stone’s oldest daughter, Lizzy is in earnest to interview Lark about being a photo journalist and Lizzy with her Jewish friend want to solve a present day crime while Stone’s youngest daughter, Haley, insists a sorrowful, crying angel is hanging about Stone and has a message for him about his past and Lark. It’s enough to make tough Stone’s emotional wall to crumble just in time for little Haley to get her Christmas wish come true.
I had forgotten how much I enjoyed the quirky town of Last Chance with matchmaking Miriam Randall, in-the-know Ruby Rhodes at the hair salon, and the rest of the funny engaging characters that people the town and happenings. Along with the festive and fun small town happenings, Hope Ramsay dug deep with how class difference, racial tension, corrupt cops, bullying, war wounds, unresolved grief and guilt, family secrets, and murder can liven things up nicely. And, like some of the other entries in the series, there is a strong dose of magical realism with the angelic presence for Haley and Stone and Miriam Randall’s matchmaking predictions.
Stone and Lark’s romance is sizzling with attraction and Hope Ramsay shows through several scenes how they are so right for each other once they work through their issues. I loved that there are soft, tranquil moments like they share out fishing at dawn on the dock as well as exciting moments when they are investigating a crime. In between, Lark experiences the strength of family when she joins the Rhodes when they gather for the Christmas holiday season. There are some wonderful scenes with Stone stumbling hard with his girls and then Lark helping him with them. Lizzy gets her own secondary thread navigating having a Jewish friend who is unpopular at school around racial bullies and even unpopular with his parents because they aren’t of the same race and religious backgrounds.
All of it came together for a wonderfully, satisfying holiday read. It sparked my need to finish with the series backlist for the other books. Those who love southern small town romantic charmers should give the Last Chance series a spin.
My full review will post at Books of the Heart Dec 24th.
Last Chance Christmas is the fifth of the standalone romances in the Last Chance series. This is a series connection, particularly through the early books b/c each Rhodes family sibling gets their romance, but I think it’s more nice than not necessary to get them in order.
Last Chance Christmas is the oldest Rhodes’ sibling, Stone’s story. Stone is a widower and the Last Chance police chief. He’s still emotionally tangled up in his guilt and grief over his wife’s death years before so that he has no desire for another relationship and struggles to connect with his two girls even. Into his life comes Lark, a war journalist suffering from PTSD and her own emotional traumas. Lark Chaikin has come to Last Chance to fulfill her estranged father’s final request to have his ashes scattered at the Golfing for God miniature golf course Stone’s granddad built and his dad is having renovated.
Lark’s arrival stirs up an old mystery surrounding Stone’s granddad’s death and her dad’s involvement in it and some old racial tensions of the time. Stone isn’t thankful for the extra trouble she brings or the way she’s forcing him to face his unresolved grief. Meanwhile, Stone’s oldest daughter, Lizzy is in earnest to interview Lark about being a photo journalist and Lizzy with her Jewish friend want to solve a present day crime while Stone’s youngest daughter, Haley, insists a sorrowful, crying angel is hanging about Stone and has a message for him about his past and Lark. It’s enough to make tough Stone’s emotional wall to crumble just in time for little Haley to get her Christmas wish come true.
I had forgotten how much I enjoyed the quirky town of Last Chance with matchmaking Miriam Randall, in-the-know Ruby Rhodes at the hair salon, and the rest of the funny engaging characters that people the town and happenings. Along with the festive and fun small town happenings, Hope Ramsay dug deep with how class difference, racial tension, corrupt cops, bullying, war wounds, unresolved grief and guilt, family secrets, and murder can liven things up nicely. And, like some of the other entries in the series, there is a strong dose of magical realism with the angelic presence for Haley and Stone and Miriam Randall’s matchmaking predictions.
Stone and Lark’s romance is sizzling with attraction and Hope Ramsay shows through several scenes how they are so right for each other once they work through their issues. I loved that there are soft, tranquil moments like they share out fishing at dawn on the dock as well as exciting moments when they are investigating a crime. In between, Lark experiences the strength of family when she joins the Rhodes when they gather for the Christmas holiday season. There are some wonderful scenes with Stone stumbling hard with his girls and then Lark helping him with them. Lizzy gets her own secondary thread navigating having a Jewish friend who is unpopular at school around racial bullies and even unpopular with his parents because they aren’t of the same race and religious backgrounds.
All of it came together for a wonderfully, satisfying holiday read. It sparked my need to finish with the series backlist for the other books. Those who love southern small town romantic charmers should give the Last Chance series a spin.
My full review will post at Books of the Heart Dec 24th.
August 26, 2012
Reviewed on http://atastyread.blogspot.com
Who doesn't LOVE a great Christmas story...and this certainly was a beautiful story about a chance at love a second time around, and opening our hearts to new possibilities. We have seen Stone throughout the complete series and he was grumpy and surly and just a Grinch. But why? We heard a bit here and there but never knew the full reasons or what happened between Stone and Sharon from when they were eighteen to now. We finally get all of our answers in Last Chance Christmas...completely worth the read.
We meet a few new friends, Lark Chaikin, who is out heroine, who has Stone feeling things that he thought were gone forever. David, a new friend of Lizzy, and a few other friends who help us solve a forty-year-old murder mystery and reveal a huge secret that will change lives forever.
Haley and her sorrowful angel play a big part in Last Chance Christmas, and I have to say, I was thrilled that they were able to help Stone find his second chance at a Happily-Ever -After. This was a beautiful story about a man and woman who found each other at a time in their lives when they needed someone the most. Plan on getting choked up a few times while reading Last Chance Christmas, and keep an open mind and heart...Hope Ramsay will have you believing in Angels!!
I hope you will plan on reading the whole Last Chance series but make sure to put this one on your Christmas List....There is nothing like a story about a second chance at love...LOVED IT!!
Enjoy and Happy Reading!!
Who doesn't LOVE a great Christmas story...and this certainly was a beautiful story about a chance at love a second time around, and opening our hearts to new possibilities. We have seen Stone throughout the complete series and he was grumpy and surly and just a Grinch. But why? We heard a bit here and there but never knew the full reasons or what happened between Stone and Sharon from when they were eighteen to now. We finally get all of our answers in Last Chance Christmas...completely worth the read.
We meet a few new friends, Lark Chaikin, who is out heroine, who has Stone feeling things that he thought were gone forever. David, a new friend of Lizzy, and a few other friends who help us solve a forty-year-old murder mystery and reveal a huge secret that will change lives forever.
Haley and her sorrowful angel play a big part in Last Chance Christmas, and I have to say, I was thrilled that they were able to help Stone find his second chance at a Happily-Ever -After. This was a beautiful story about a man and woman who found each other at a time in their lives when they needed someone the most. Plan on getting choked up a few times while reading Last Chance Christmas, and keep an open mind and heart...Hope Ramsay will have you believing in Angels!!
I hope you will plan on reading the whole Last Chance series but make sure to put this one on your Christmas List....There is nothing like a story about a second chance at love...LOVED IT!!
Enjoy and Happy Reading!!
January 6, 2014
Very good book. Lark has come to Last Chance to scatter her father's ashes at the Golfing for God putt-putt course. She doesn't understand why, but it was his last request so that's what she'll do. When she arrives she discovers that there are some roadblocks to carrying out her plans. Her father was not the most popular guy to have visited the town and there are secrets that are about to be stirred up. She needs to get permission from multiple people to fulfill her father's wishes. And the local police chief isn't any too happy about the trouble she's stirring up. Stone is a widower who is having trouble moving on. His wife was his soulmate and he feels lost without her. He's raising his two daughters, teenage Lizzy and seven year old Haley. Haley has been talking about the "sorrowful angel" she has been seeing since the death of her mother. Having Lark show up in town is creating problems for him. Some people want him to run her out of town and others are glad she's there. Being around her is waking up feelings that make him feel guilty but also seem to be filling a hole in his life. Working together they uncover the secrets that have created problems for their families and bring them to the light of day. There's also a modern murder that ends up being tied to some of the same people.
Lark plans to spread her father's ashes and get back to her work as a war correspondent/photojournalist. Part of her troubles is that she is suffering from some PTSD because of her last job. A friend died as she was taking pictures and she hasn't been able to use her camera since then. Taking care of her father has given her a break, but she still hasn't recovered. Meeting Stone puts a crimp in her plans as he explains the problems. Her father is blamed for the death of his grandfather and there are a lot of people who don't want to help her. At first Stone is among them. Lark finds some that are willing to talk to her and help her take care of her father's ashes. She also finds herself increasingly attracted to Stone, even though there's no future in it. I loved the way that just being around Stone started to lessen her trauma. She also found that she could talk to him about anything, including those bad memories. He understood and didn't try to judge or advise, he just listened. I also loved her reaction to life in the small town, something she had never experienced before. It really didn't take long before she started to fit in to the whole community. I especially loved seeing her with Stone's daughters. She knew just what to say to Haley about Santa and her angel, and she was just as great with Lizzy. I loved the way her independence and experience saved Lizzy and David at the end. Her fears nearly kept her from going after what she wanted, until she admitted to herself that she wanted the love she had seen all around Last Chance.
Stone has been getting by for the last six years since the death of his wife. He has his family around to help and support him but he misses his wife. He is frustrated by his youngest daughter's constant talk of her angel. When Lark arrives in Last Chance he senses that she is bringing a whole bunch of trouble with her. He's heard about how her father was responsible for his grandfather's death for years. He knows his father will never agree to her spreading those ashes at the golf course, though it isn't entirely up to him. He tells her about how she will have to get permission from others too. He really hopes she'll just give up and leave. It doesn't take long before her presence starts making waves and people are telling him to run her out of town. He soon realizes that that's the last thing he wants. I loved seeing him get to know Lark and see the woman behind the tough facade. I also loved the way his feelings for her were growing but he was so unsure about what to do about it. He's the strong, silent type but also somewhat vulnerable. It was sweet seeing the way he kind of bumbled his way around asking her out and taking her places. I also loved the way he tried to protect them both from the gossips of the town, but ended up right in the middle of it anyway. I really enjoyed seeing him finally let go of his past and how Haley and her "angel" were part of it. I must admit that I had my suspicions about that angel from the beginning and was very happy to see that I was right. I enjoyed his conversation with the "matchmaker" who gives advice and how it also opened his eyes to the possibilities for his future.
Besides the terrific romance elements of the book, I really enjoyed the whole small town setting. All the characters are realistic and not cutesy at all. Lark's arrival brought out some of the less savory history of being a small Southern town in the sixties. Part of the mystery involving Lark's father was rooted in his actions with an African-American woman and the segregation that was still being practiced. There was a very interesting twist to that story at the end. Stone also had to deal with a murder that happened just outside town, getting the county sheriff involved. By the end of the book that mystery is solved in a surprising way. There was a sweet teen romance involving Lizzy and a classmate, a Jewish boy that is dealing with some bullying by a teenaged bigot. I really loved Lizzy's attitude, though she was certainly good at pushing her dad's buttons. Lizzy and David found themselves in the middle of some serious danger and it was David who came through for Lizzy. There was a lot of excitement at the golf course that day and a couple very interesting plot twists. I'm really looking forward to reading the next book.
Lark plans to spread her father's ashes and get back to her work as a war correspondent/photojournalist. Part of her troubles is that she is suffering from some PTSD because of her last job. A friend died as she was taking pictures and she hasn't been able to use her camera since then. Taking care of her father has given her a break, but she still hasn't recovered. Meeting Stone puts a crimp in her plans as he explains the problems. Her father is blamed for the death of his grandfather and there are a lot of people who don't want to help her. At first Stone is among them. Lark finds some that are willing to talk to her and help her take care of her father's ashes. She also finds herself increasingly attracted to Stone, even though there's no future in it. I loved the way that just being around Stone started to lessen her trauma. She also found that she could talk to him about anything, including those bad memories. He understood and didn't try to judge or advise, he just listened. I also loved her reaction to life in the small town, something she had never experienced before. It really didn't take long before she started to fit in to the whole community. I especially loved seeing her with Stone's daughters. She knew just what to say to Haley about Santa and her angel, and she was just as great with Lizzy. I loved the way her independence and experience saved Lizzy and David at the end. Her fears nearly kept her from going after what she wanted, until she admitted to herself that she wanted the love she had seen all around Last Chance.
Stone has been getting by for the last six years since the death of his wife. He has his family around to help and support him but he misses his wife. He is frustrated by his youngest daughter's constant talk of her angel. When Lark arrives in Last Chance he senses that she is bringing a whole bunch of trouble with her. He's heard about how her father was responsible for his grandfather's death for years. He knows his father will never agree to her spreading those ashes at the golf course, though it isn't entirely up to him. He tells her about how she will have to get permission from others too. He really hopes she'll just give up and leave. It doesn't take long before her presence starts making waves and people are telling him to run her out of town. He soon realizes that that's the last thing he wants. I loved seeing him get to know Lark and see the woman behind the tough facade. I also loved the way his feelings for her were growing but he was so unsure about what to do about it. He's the strong, silent type but also somewhat vulnerable. It was sweet seeing the way he kind of bumbled his way around asking her out and taking her places. I also loved the way he tried to protect them both from the gossips of the town, but ended up right in the middle of it anyway. I really enjoyed seeing him finally let go of his past and how Haley and her "angel" were part of it. I must admit that I had my suspicions about that angel from the beginning and was very happy to see that I was right. I enjoyed his conversation with the "matchmaker" who gives advice and how it also opened his eyes to the possibilities for his future.
Besides the terrific romance elements of the book, I really enjoyed the whole small town setting. All the characters are realistic and not cutesy at all. Lark's arrival brought out some of the less savory history of being a small Southern town in the sixties. Part of the mystery involving Lark's father was rooted in his actions with an African-American woman and the segregation that was still being practiced. There was a very interesting twist to that story at the end. Stone also had to deal with a murder that happened just outside town, getting the county sheriff involved. By the end of the book that mystery is solved in a surprising way. There was a sweet teen romance involving Lizzy and a classmate, a Jewish boy that is dealing with some bullying by a teenaged bigot. I really loved Lizzy's attitude, though she was certainly good at pushing her dad's buttons. Lizzy and David found themselves in the middle of some serious danger and it was David who came through for Lizzy. There was a lot of excitement at the golf course that day and a couple very interesting plot twists. I'm really looking forward to reading the next book.
May 17, 2020
Just what I needed. Strong yet broken heroine and hero; strong side characters. I really enjoyed seeing Lizzy & David learn about each other - I'm a sucker for teens. This is such a heartwarming series, even though there seems to be a lot of people getting shot (or shot at). I look forward to returning to Last Chance!
February 26, 2013
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
South Carolina and pine trees swaying in the wind.
Lark Chaikin’s plan (er, challenge) is a bit quirky, but reflects her late father’s desires. And, Sheriff Stone Rhodes is not unsympathetic, but the law is the law. The two are on opposite sides from the start. And lets face it: Stone Rhodes is about as unbending a lawman as one can imagine. However, both our main characters are complex and interesting people, and though they seem plainly at odds, both surprise us. Lark is sophisticated, but at heart, there’s a country girl, with a genuine feeling for a people. She is also determined to solve what starts as a minor mystery. Stone has that tough exterior you’d expect of a lawman; but there is a lot going on inside. His own grief makes him both less sociable but more understanding.
Almost by accident, they find they have a common goal in discovering the truth about a specific important event in town.
The community is thoroughly involved from the start. Folks take sides, doubt one another, question the facts. Gossip takes off … and though you want to believe in charming little southern communities, we find out pretty quickly that even at the holidays, you can’t count on the clichéd charming community to help out overall.
Ms. Ramsey’s writing style is straightforward and unobtrusive. Conversations are believable and move things right along. One or two changes in point-of-view were a tad abrupt, but (recognizing this is a personal bugaboo) I suspect this will not dismay most readers. The secondary characters also do certainly move things along – young David’s romance with Lizzie is a whole entertaining side, and past loves come into it too. There is also that touch of ‘magic’ any good Christmas story needs – an angel to oversee them all. Although Last Chance Christmas is a series, you don’t need to have read any of the previous novels to thoroughly enjoy this one.
Somehow, despite disagreements, expectations and whole-town angst, not to mention a troubling investigation, Ms. Ramsey will still make us feel the heartfelt charm of it all, and leave you happily in the spirit of Christmas. From the swaying pines through a myriad of decoration all the way to the pageant, this book has everything.
My recommendation: Curl up with this book and a nice batch of frosted cookies. On another note: Cover designer went over and above on this one: Colors and design are completely perfect; Last Chance Christmas will make a lovely gift — for Christmas or any time of the year.
South Carolina and pine trees swaying in the wind.
Lark Chaikin’s plan (er, challenge) is a bit quirky, but reflects her late father’s desires. And, Sheriff Stone Rhodes is not unsympathetic, but the law is the law. The two are on opposite sides from the start. And lets face it: Stone Rhodes is about as unbending a lawman as one can imagine. However, both our main characters are complex and interesting people, and though they seem plainly at odds, both surprise us. Lark is sophisticated, but at heart, there’s a country girl, with a genuine feeling for a people. She is also determined to solve what starts as a minor mystery. Stone has that tough exterior you’d expect of a lawman; but there is a lot going on inside. His own grief makes him both less sociable but more understanding.
Almost by accident, they find they have a common goal in discovering the truth about a specific important event in town.
The community is thoroughly involved from the start. Folks take sides, doubt one another, question the facts. Gossip takes off … and though you want to believe in charming little southern communities, we find out pretty quickly that even at the holidays, you can’t count on the clichéd charming community to help out overall.
Ms. Ramsey’s writing style is straightforward and unobtrusive. Conversations are believable and move things right along. One or two changes in point-of-view were a tad abrupt, but (recognizing this is a personal bugaboo) I suspect this will not dismay most readers. The secondary characters also do certainly move things along – young David’s romance with Lizzie is a whole entertaining side, and past loves come into it too. There is also that touch of ‘magic’ any good Christmas story needs – an angel to oversee them all. Although Last Chance Christmas is a series, you don’t need to have read any of the previous novels to thoroughly enjoy this one.
Somehow, despite disagreements, expectations and whole-town angst, not to mention a troubling investigation, Ms. Ramsey will still make us feel the heartfelt charm of it all, and leave you happily in the spirit of Christmas. From the swaying pines through a myriad of decoration all the way to the pageant, this book has everything.
My recommendation: Curl up with this book and a nice batch of frosted cookies. On another note: Cover designer went over and above on this one: Colors and design are completely perfect; Last Chance Christmas will make a lovely gift — for Christmas or any time of the year.
December 9, 2012
MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT!
Stone Rhodes has lost his wife, and with two young girls to raise, has not been interested in moving on with his life. As Ruby's oldest son, she and her Ladies at the Cut 'n' Curl have given up on ever getting him out of his rut of work and taking care of Lizzy and Haley. Haley was in the car when a drunk driver killed his wife and even though she was only two when the accident happened, she still hasn't gotten over it. Haley has been telling her father that an angel is weeping over him and when she demands an answer from her, she is told he must open his heart and move on. This sets Haley in motion, in the way only a young girl at Christmas who wants a special present can campaign.
When Lark Chaikin, takes her father, Abe's, last wishes to heart, she travels to Last Chance to spread his ashes on the Golfing for God putt putt, which is owned by Stone's father. Apparently, there was some interaction between Stone's grandfather and Lark's father where the grandfather died the night Abe left town. Lark has a lot of issues mostly stemming from her job as a Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist where she covers the horrors of war and natural disasters. After witnessing her mentor and friend die in a bomb blast, she doesn't think she will ever work again. She finds herself quickly intertwined with the ladies of the Cut 'n" Curl as they nurse her back to health when she is taken ill. They also want to take care of her mental as well as physical.
As the town's history becomes clear to Lark, she wonders if she will ever be able to take care of her father's last wish and move on with her life. Of course, the Ladies know what is best for both Stone and Lark and there are some really sweet and AWWW moments as these two damaged people come together under the magic of an angel and the holidays. There is also a wonderful subplot of high school aged, Lizzy and her spunky ways trying to grow up under the watchful eyes of her father. She is one I want to read more about. This one will leave you a bit misty eyed, but cheered at the same time. I need to go back and read the story of Stone and Sharon and their romance. I just need that novella now so I can be all caught up in Last Chance.
LOVED IT!
Stone Rhodes has lost his wife, and with two young girls to raise, has not been interested in moving on with his life. As Ruby's oldest son, she and her Ladies at the Cut 'n' Curl have given up on ever getting him out of his rut of work and taking care of Lizzy and Haley. Haley was in the car when a drunk driver killed his wife and even though she was only two when the accident happened, she still hasn't gotten over it. Haley has been telling her father that an angel is weeping over him and when she demands an answer from her, she is told he must open his heart and move on. This sets Haley in motion, in the way only a young girl at Christmas who wants a special present can campaign.
When Lark Chaikin, takes her father, Abe's, last wishes to heart, she travels to Last Chance to spread his ashes on the Golfing for God putt putt, which is owned by Stone's father. Apparently, there was some interaction between Stone's grandfather and Lark's father where the grandfather died the night Abe left town. Lark has a lot of issues mostly stemming from her job as a Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist where she covers the horrors of war and natural disasters. After witnessing her mentor and friend die in a bomb blast, she doesn't think she will ever work again. She finds herself quickly intertwined with the ladies of the Cut 'n" Curl as they nurse her back to health when she is taken ill. They also want to take care of her mental as well as physical.
As the town's history becomes clear to Lark, she wonders if she will ever be able to take care of her father's last wish and move on with her life. Of course, the Ladies know what is best for both Stone and Lark and there are some really sweet and AWWW moments as these two damaged people come together under the magic of an angel and the holidays. There is also a wonderful subplot of high school aged, Lizzy and her spunky ways trying to grow up under the watchful eyes of her father. She is one I want to read more about. This one will leave you a bit misty eyed, but cheered at the same time. I need to go back and read the story of Stone and Sharon and their romance. I just need that novella now so I can be all caught up in Last Chance.
May 20, 2013
Reviewed by: Crystal B
Book provided by: Publisher
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I had really been wanting to read a book from Hope Ramsay’s Last Chance series, the titles and covers just looked appealing to me. So when given the opportunity to read and review Last Chance Christmas I jumped at the chance. It lived up to my expectations. I love small town romance series and this one fits the bill in my book.
Last Chance is one of those little towns where everyone knows everyone and everything that is going on. I so enjoy my “trips” to these little towns and enjoy meeting new people when I find another great small town to visit.
In this story I got to meet Lark Chaikin whom is on a mission to full fill her Dad’s last request of placing his ashes at Golfing for God’s 18th hole. However when her father left Last Chance years ago he did not leave on the best of terms so this is makes for an interesting situation. Lark is a strong woman that is dealing with some major trauma from her past. I really enjoyed meeting Lark, she seems like such a wonderful, interesting character that would have plenty of stories to read if we were to sit down and visit.
Stone Rhodes lost his wife and is raising two young daughters. He has a lot of things from his past that he has to deal with before he can move on and find love again. I really liked Stone’s character in this book he seems like a really down home boy that puts his family first. I loved that fact that when Stone’s wife passed away his parents stepped in to help him raise his two daughters. I love that his family is standing with him and lending him support. This is another one of those things that I love about small towns that everyone is always willing to help when someone is in need.
There is also a couple mysteries that has happened in town, one that took place years and one that take place in present day. This adds a lot of drama and suspense too the plot that really kept me intrigued. There are many twist and turns that I did not suspect but really enjoyed.
I would highly recommend this book to all my fellow small town romance fans out there. I think you will enjoy it, I know I sure did. I am most certainly going to be on the look out for more great stories by Hope Ramsay.
Book provided by: Publisher
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I had really been wanting to read a book from Hope Ramsay’s Last Chance series, the titles and covers just looked appealing to me. So when given the opportunity to read and review Last Chance Christmas I jumped at the chance. It lived up to my expectations. I love small town romance series and this one fits the bill in my book.
Last Chance is one of those little towns where everyone knows everyone and everything that is going on. I so enjoy my “trips” to these little towns and enjoy meeting new people when I find another great small town to visit.
In this story I got to meet Lark Chaikin whom is on a mission to full fill her Dad’s last request of placing his ashes at Golfing for God’s 18th hole. However when her father left Last Chance years ago he did not leave on the best of terms so this is makes for an interesting situation. Lark is a strong woman that is dealing with some major trauma from her past. I really enjoyed meeting Lark, she seems like such a wonderful, interesting character that would have plenty of stories to read if we were to sit down and visit.
Stone Rhodes lost his wife and is raising two young daughters. He has a lot of things from his past that he has to deal with before he can move on and find love again. I really liked Stone’s character in this book he seems like a really down home boy that puts his family first. I loved that fact that when Stone’s wife passed away his parents stepped in to help him raise his two daughters. I love that his family is standing with him and lending him support. This is another one of those things that I love about small towns that everyone is always willing to help when someone is in need.
There is also a couple mysteries that has happened in town, one that took place years and one that take place in present day. This adds a lot of drama and suspense too the plot that really kept me intrigued. There are many twist and turns that I did not suspect but really enjoyed.
I would highly recommend this book to all my fellow small town romance fans out there. I think you will enjoy it, I know I sure did. I am most certainly going to be on the look out for more great stories by Hope Ramsay.
March 23, 2013
Author: Hope Ramsay
Published by: Forever
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4
Review:
"The Last Chance" by Hope Ramsay was my first read from this author and I found it a nice romantic 'Christmas Holiday' novel with a bit of paranormal. I did find this novel some what very interesting as it deals with 'racial issues' many years ago dealing with ...'black and white couples in the sixty's, teenage drinking, prejudiced of different faiths and the horrors of wars.' Now, if there is any doubt, this will be a good read. We find that is widower..Stone Rhodes is the sheriff of 'Last Chance, South Carolina' and has two daughters...one that sees angels. Next, we find Lark Chaikin has arrived in Last Chance to bring her fathers'(Abe) ashes to a 'Golfing for God' which was a mini golf course which were his last wishes. However, would this Chief of Police Stone allow this to happen? Then this is where this story really picks up where Stone tells Lark that she would have to get permission from the new ownership of this mini golf course. Little did Lark know that her father was not very popular in that town. Why was this? Now, this is where I say you must pick up "Last Chance Christmas" to see where, why, who and the how of it all in the well written novel. Be ready for a love story, with mystery and drama that will keep
you moving quickly through the read to definitely put a touch in the holiday spirit.
Would I recommend "Last Chance Christmas?" YES!
Published by: Forever
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Book Blog For: GMTA
Rating: 4
Review:
"The Last Chance" by Hope Ramsay was my first read from this author and I found it a nice romantic 'Christmas Holiday' novel with a bit of paranormal. I did find this novel some what very interesting as it deals with 'racial issues' many years ago dealing with ...'black and white couples in the sixty's, teenage drinking, prejudiced of different faiths and the horrors of wars.' Now, if there is any doubt, this will be a good read. We find that is widower..Stone Rhodes is the sheriff of 'Last Chance, South Carolina' and has two daughters...one that sees angels. Next, we find Lark Chaikin has arrived in Last Chance to bring her fathers'(Abe) ashes to a 'Golfing for God' which was a mini golf course which were his last wishes. However, would this Chief of Police Stone allow this to happen? Then this is where this story really picks up where Stone tells Lark that she would have to get permission from the new ownership of this mini golf course. Little did Lark know that her father was not very popular in that town. Why was this? Now, this is where I say you must pick up "Last Chance Christmas" to see where, why, who and the how of it all in the well written novel. Be ready for a love story, with mystery and drama that will keep
you moving quickly through the read to definitely put a touch in the holiday spirit.
Would I recommend "Last Chance Christmas?" YES!
December 29, 2012
Last Chance Christmas was a sweet romance with a bit of mystery added in. I really liked the characters of Lark Aiken and Stone Rhodes, and enjoyed watching their relationship develop. Stone's girls and the townspeople added to the book. I enjoyed the storyline, and look forward to more from this series.
Lark has gone to Last Chance, South Carolina to fulfill her father's last wishes of scattering his ashes at a miniature golf course there. She encounters resistance from the people of the town when she gets there, especially Stone, who is the chief of police. As Lark and Stone get to know one another, they can't deny the strong feelings between them.
This book was a great addition to the series. It was a touching romance, and had great characters. I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley.
Lark has gone to Last Chance, South Carolina to fulfill her father's last wishes of scattering his ashes at a miniature golf course there. She encounters resistance from the people of the town when she gets there, especially Stone, who is the chief of police. As Lark and Stone get to know one another, they can't deny the strong feelings between them.
This book was a great addition to the series. It was a touching romance, and had great characters. I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley.
December 11, 2012
I really liked this book! It was a sweet story. It's wasn't overly dramatic with the romance, it was set at a nice pace and with a little murder mystery to go with it as well. I couldn't put the book down, I had to keep reading to see what was going to happen next. The desription of the town was amazing, I pictured it so clearly while reading the story,made me feel like I was part of Last Chance lol. I highly recommend it.
December 19, 2012
This is the first "Last Chance" book I've read, but I really enjoyed it! I'll go back and look up the previous books to see what fun I've missed out on. Loved the small town setting, and the characters were a lot of fun too!
November 20, 2013
I did not expect the ending to happen the way it did. I enjoyed reading about Lark and so glad Stone has been finally "healed"
June 25, 2023
Pulitzer Prize-winning War photographer Lark Chaikin has come to Last Chance to scatter her father's ashes at the 18th hole of the Golfing for God putt-putt course.
She's also taking time out as she tries to come to terms with the horrifying events she witnessed on her last assignment. She is a dark place and can't bring herself to take another photograph.
Why her father chose that particular spot is unknown but what soon becomes clear is that it is where the body of Zeke Rhodes, his friend, was found the same day as Abe Chaikin left the town after an eventful 10-day visit.
That mystery, deemed a suicide by some and murder by others, was never really investigated nor was it ever solved.
Among those who believe Abe was a murderer is the owner of Golfing for God, Zeke's son Elbert. There's no way he's allowing a scattering of the ashes.
At first local police chief Stonewall Rhodes (there's a plethora of that family in the area) is tasked with getting her to go away, but the normally surly widower finds himself attracted to a woman for the first time since the death of his wife, Sharon, his soul mate!
As a former Marine he recognises Larks' PTSD and helps her deal with it. But as time runs out it will take a miracle for Lark to stay in Last Chance. However, it seems the Sorrowful Angel has plans.
The finale is completely over the top (as it should be!) It's wildly emotional and has no shame at all when it comes to tugging heartstrings.
"Last Chance Christmas" is, by far, the best in the series so far.
4 Stars.
She's also taking time out as she tries to come to terms with the horrifying events she witnessed on her last assignment. She is a dark place and can't bring herself to take another photograph.
Why her father chose that particular spot is unknown but what soon becomes clear is that it is where the body of Zeke Rhodes, his friend, was found the same day as Abe Chaikin left the town after an eventful 10-day visit.
That mystery, deemed a suicide by some and murder by others, was never really investigated nor was it ever solved.
Among those who believe Abe was a murderer is the owner of Golfing for God, Zeke's son Elbert. There's no way he's allowing a scattering of the ashes.
At first local police chief Stonewall Rhodes (there's a plethora of that family in the area) is tasked with getting her to go away, but the normally surly widower finds himself attracted to a woman for the first time since the death of his wife, Sharon, his soul mate!
As a former Marine he recognises Larks' PTSD and helps her deal with it. But as time runs out it will take a miracle for Lark to stay in Last Chance. However, it seems the Sorrowful Angel has plans.
The finale is completely over the top (as it should be!) It's wildly emotional and has no shame at all when it comes to tugging heartstrings.
"Last Chance Christmas" is, by far, the best in the series so far.
4 Stars.
December 15, 2022
This was a sweet, feel-good Christmas story made even better because of the ties to where I live. My first book by Hope Ramsay but, as I thoroughly enjoyed this one, I would read her again.
When war photographer Lark Chaikin heads to Last Chance, SC to fulfill her father's last request she gets more than she bargained. Her family has a history in this town and people are not thrilled she's returned. All she wants is to keep her promise and then head back out to do what she does best. The local sheriff, Stone Rhodes, is stuck in the middle. To keep her promise to her father Lark requires Stone's father's permission but Elbert Rhodes believes Lark's father had a hand in his father Zeke Rhodes' death. Faced with a mystery, stunned by all the revelations about her father, and without a place to stay the local Church's women's auxiliary takes her under their wing. As she works towards her goal of laying her father to rest she: uncovers a long-held town secret, inadvertently breaks a murder case, stirs up numerous lives, and finds an anchor and home.
This is a story of letting go, moving on, facing your fears, and reaching for what you want. It is also a story about believing in yourself and having faith...in God, in Angels, in the power of love.
When war photographer Lark Chaikin heads to Last Chance, SC to fulfill her father's last request she gets more than she bargained. Her family has a history in this town and people are not thrilled she's returned. All she wants is to keep her promise and then head back out to do what she does best. The local sheriff, Stone Rhodes, is stuck in the middle. To keep her promise to her father Lark requires Stone's father's permission but Elbert Rhodes believes Lark's father had a hand in his father Zeke Rhodes' death. Faced with a mystery, stunned by all the revelations about her father, and without a place to stay the local Church's women's auxiliary takes her under their wing. As she works towards her goal of laying her father to rest she: uncovers a long-held town secret, inadvertently breaks a murder case, stirs up numerous lives, and finds an anchor and home.
This is a story of letting go, moving on, facing your fears, and reaching for what you want. It is also a story about believing in yourself and having faith...in God, in Angels, in the power of love.
April 23, 2018
I absolutely love this series by Hope Ramsay. I cannot wait to read more.
Lark Chaikin, famous photojournalist of war scenes arrives at Last Chance at Golfing for Jesus. (Golfing for Jesus is a putt putt golf course dedicated to God.) Lark arrives with her fathers ashes in an urn. His last wish was for his ashes to be dumped at a one of the putt putt stops. Stone is the local sheriff and he sees her car at the closed Golfing for God. When he runs the tag it belongs to her father Chaikin who is infamous in Last Chance for killing Stones grandfather in 1968. Needless to say when he approaches Lark he isnt happy. But when he looks at her and tells her the story she passes out. He picks her up and takes her to the clinic.
Stone has two daughters Lizzy a teen and Haley a 7 year old who has been seeing angels since her mother died in a car crash that Haley was in. Between his girls, his mama, a matchmaker, the 40 year old murder and a new murder Lark and Stone search for and find the truth about what really happened 40 years ago.
Lark Chaikin, famous photojournalist of war scenes arrives at Last Chance at Golfing for Jesus. (Golfing for Jesus is a putt putt golf course dedicated to God.) Lark arrives with her fathers ashes in an urn. His last wish was for his ashes to be dumped at a one of the putt putt stops. Stone is the local sheriff and he sees her car at the closed Golfing for God. When he runs the tag it belongs to her father Chaikin who is infamous in Last Chance for killing Stones grandfather in 1968. Needless to say when he approaches Lark he isnt happy. But when he looks at her and tells her the story she passes out. He picks her up and takes her to the clinic.
Stone has two daughters Lizzy a teen and Haley a 7 year old who has been seeing angels since her mother died in a car crash that Haley was in. Between his girls, his mama, a matchmaker, the 40 year old murder and a new murder Lark and Stone search for and find the truth about what really happened 40 years ago.
March 4, 2018
This was a great addition to the Last Chance series. It was a nice romance with a little mystery added in. The romance was great, but I liked the interaction of the town with everyone.
Lark went to Last Chance to scatter her father's ashes, fulfilling his last request. But he wants them scattered on the 18th hole of Golfing for God, and there is some tension there, they don't want her doing that. So she stays a few extra days to convince the people involved that it would be ok to spread the ashes. The main one she has to convince is Stone, the police chief. As they get to know each other, they find they understand each other better than either of them ever thought someone could.
A sweet romance, and of course, it involves Christmas, which makes any book great.
Lark went to Last Chance to scatter her father's ashes, fulfilling his last request. But he wants them scattered on the 18th hole of Golfing for God, and there is some tension there, they don't want her doing that. So she stays a few extra days to convince the people involved that it would be ok to spread the ashes. The main one she has to convince is Stone, the police chief. As they get to know each other, they find they understand each other better than either of them ever thought someone could.
A sweet romance, and of course, it involves Christmas, which makes any book great.
June 22, 2020
This is another wonderful book about Last Chance, South Carolina and the people that make up the town. Stone Rhodes has been a widow for several years and has no intention of ever marrying again, that is until he met Lark Chaikin who had come to town to spread her daddy's asses on the eighteen hole of the Golfing for God Mini Golf course. Forty years before, Lark's father had left town right before Stone's Grandfather was found dead on the mini golf course. It was always thought that Abe Chaikin had murdered him but it was listed as an accident. There were hard feelings on both sides in the town but no one really spoke of it until Lark came to town. This is a great story that you will really enjoy.
January 20, 2026
Another in the Last Chance series, in which photo-journalist Lark arrives in Last Chance to honor her late father's wishes that she scatter his ashes on the 18th hold of the Golfing for God putt-putt course. Noth that the owner wants her to do so. And that's where the chief of police, Stone comes in. He has to figure out how to get Lark out of town and out of danger from the people who fear that she is just like her father: someone to stir things up.
Boy howdy! Were they correct! But she also solves a 40-year mystery while helping to keep Stone's elder daughter from being hurt like the girl's boyfriend is. What an ending! Can this tale be topped with the next one in the series? Can't wait to find out.
Boy howdy! Were they correct! But she also solves a 40-year mystery while helping to keep Stone's elder daughter from being hurt like the girl's boyfriend is. What an ending! Can this tale be topped with the next one in the series? Can't wait to find out.
March 11, 2019
Last Chance Christmas by Hope Ramsay
I've been reading through this series of novels over the last few months. Every few books I read lately - one of Hope Ramsay's is available at the library. They are about the interesting and quirky people of a very small US southern town where everyone knows everyone's business. It's too bad this instalment wasn't available at Christmas! This time the story centers on Stone Rhodes, a police officer of the town. He is another of Ruby Rhodes boys. He lost his wife in a car accident a number of years ago and can't ever imagine finding love again until a pretty photojournalist visits town.
I've been reading through this series of novels over the last few months. Every few books I read lately - one of Hope Ramsay's is available at the library. They are about the interesting and quirky people of a very small US southern town where everyone knows everyone's business. It's too bad this instalment wasn't available at Christmas! This time the story centers on Stone Rhodes, a police officer of the town. He is another of Ruby Rhodes boys. He lost his wife in a car accident a number of years ago and can't ever imagine finding love again until a pretty photojournalist visits town.
June 1, 2020
This was my favorite so far. Stony Rhodes made an impression on me from the first story in the series. He's a family man through and through. He'd protect his parents, siblings, and children with his life. He misses his wife and a secret about their early marriage is revealed that the explains a lot about him. When he lets his guard down and decided to share his life with another woman again, he goes all day in. I
I laughed and cried at the antics of the Rhodes family, the inhabitants of the small southern town, and the lovely visitor Lark, who has come to spread her father's ashes per his final request. Not only does she unearth a mystery but ends up finding herself in Last Chance, SC!
I laughed and cried at the antics of the Rhodes family, the inhabitants of the small southern town, and the lovely visitor Lark, who has come to spread her father's ashes per his final request. Not only does she unearth a mystery but ends up finding herself in Last Chance, SC!
August 21, 2017
The best of the series yet!
The conclusion of the "Sorrowful Angel" role throughout the Last Chance series thus far was worth the wait! The youngest member of the Rhodes clan, Haley and her persistence in trying to get the message across was lovingly and artfully written by Hope Ramsay.
The conclusion of the "Sorrowful Angel" role throughout the Last Chance series thus far was worth the wait! The youngest member of the Rhodes clan, Haley and her persistence in trying to get the message across was lovingly and artfully written by Hope Ramsay.
October 11, 2021
I am really into this series, not overly sweet, not overly done, each book is a different character, and the author makes each one likeable with real life qualities, faults and difficult situations they are dealing with.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2022
Wonderful Christmas Story
A great, Christmas read. Romantic, with a little mystery and some suspenseful moments. Loved the use of angels and the kids were cute, realistic and an integral part of the story, not just props for the main characters. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
A great, Christmas read. Romantic, with a little mystery and some suspenseful moments. Loved the use of angels and the kids were cute, realistic and an integral part of the story, not just props for the main characters. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
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July 29, 2023I absolutely love Hope Ramsay books and the Last Chance series.
Lark comes to Last Chance, SC to honor her dad's dying wish to have his ashes spread at the 18th hole of the Golfing for God golf course. She did not count on learning she has a half sister or falling in love with Stone Rhodes.
Lark comes to Last Chance, SC to honor her dad's dying wish to have his ashes spread at the 18th hole of the Golfing for God golf course. She did not count on learning she has a half sister or falling in love with Stone Rhodes.
June 24, 2017
Loved reading this!!!
August 21, 2017
My favorite so far in the Last Chance series! Hope Ramsay artfully concludes the "Sorrowful Angel" sub-plot validating the youngest Rhodes, Haley and her family "gift". A real tearjerker for me!
December 4, 2018
The first couple of chapters didn't flow very well. It was a cute story once it got started.
December 14, 2018
Pretty cool Christmas story about love and loss, learning to let go....oh, and angels!
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