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Chance #1
One More Chance
When orthopedic surgeon Harriet “Harry” Basantes is called to the ER to assess a patient who has been assaulted by her husband, she’s instantly thrust back sixteen years to the day her childhood sweetheart, Desi Thompson, walked away and disappeared without a trace.
Desi’s always done the right thing, including marrying the man her father insisted was a better match than Harry. But when she ends up in the ER after an argument gone wrong, she can’t help wondering if the right thing is worth the cost.
Harry refuses to let Desi return to an unsafe home, even if that means putting aside her own broken heart. With love on the line, can they give each other one more chance?
Desi’s always done the right thing, including marrying the man her father insisted was a better match than Harry. But when she ends up in the ER after an argument gone wrong, she can’t help wondering if the right thing is worth the cost.
Harry refuses to let Desi return to an unsafe home, even if that means putting aside her own broken heart. With love on the line, can they give each other one more chance?
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published September 28, 2020
66 people are currently reading
320 people want to read
About the author
Ali Vali
57 books461 followersAli Vali is the author of the long-running Cain Casey "Devil" series and the Genesis Clan "Forces" series, as well as numerous standalone romances including two Lambda Literary Award finalists, Calling the Dead and Love Match, and her 2017 release, Beauty and the Boss. Ali also has a novella in the collection Girls with Guns.
Originally from Cuba, Ali has retained much of her family's traditions and language and uses them frequently in her stories. Having her father read her stories and poetry before bed every night as a child infused her with a love of reading, which she carries till today. Ali currently lives outside New Orleans, Louisiana, and she has discovered that living in Louisiana provides plenty of material to draw from in creating her novels and short stories.
Originally from Cuba, Ali has retained much of her family's traditions and language and uses them frequently in her stories. Having her father read her stories and poetry before bed every night as a child infused her with a love of reading, which she carries till today. Ali currently lives outside New Orleans, Louisiana, and she has discovered that living in Louisiana provides plenty of material to draw from in creating her novels and short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
September 19, 2020
Fair warning: this story deals with domestic violence.
I was happy to see that one of Ali Vali’s early fanfic stories that I enjoyed had been published. I first read it around 2009 or earlier when it was published online as “How do You Mend a Broken Heart”. This was one of the first Xena AU (alternative universe) stories that I ever read. While reading this version, I noticed a few edits here and there that helped take it out of fanfic realm and scene cuts that were not missed.
There is Dr. Harriet (Harry) Basantes is a modern Xena(ish) character. Tall, dark, blue-eyed, gorgeous, generous, and compassionate lesbian woman who is one of the best orthopedic surgeons in Louisiana. She is also a martial arts master and Desi's protector. The other main character is Desiree (Desi) Thompson who is a year or two younger than Harry and is the modern Gabrielle(ish) character. Short, blond, green-eyed, gorgeous, loving, and a kind woman. She and Harry had been childhood friends that developed into more than just friends in High School. Desi's home life was difficult, a single father and a younger sister, Rachel whom she loved and protected from their abusive father. When her father discovered the relationship, he told Desi she couldn't see her sister, Rachel again if she didn't stop seeing Harry. Harry went off to college, never knowing why Desi broke off all ties with her. Fast forward 16 years and they meet again - in the ER when Desi is brought in with a leg horribly smashed by her abusive husband. Harry, now an orthopedic surgeon, fixes Desi's leg and brings her and Rachel to her large home to recover and to escape and protect Desi from her revengeful husband.
Yeah, at times Harry is too good to be true and some of the situations are over the top, but still you love them both and cheer as their love rekindles. The book also has a strong supporting cast with Rachel, Harry’s best friend Serena and her son Albert, aka Butch and Mona, Harry’s longtime cook and housekeeper.
There was a sequel to the fanfic that was removed so hopefully Vali will publish it as well.
Memorable quotes:
Mona: “What in the hell was that girl thinking, naming that sweet child Albert? Might as well tape a note to his forehead the first day of school with “I’m Albert, please feel free to beat the crap out of me and steal my lunch money.”
And when Desi’s ex-father-in-law grabbed Desi, only to find himself in a painful wrist lock by Harry. Harry: “Try this again, and I’ll break every one of your fingers and name the bones as I do.”
An ARC was given to me by Bold Strokes Books and Netgalley for an honest review.
I was happy to see that one of Ali Vali’s early fanfic stories that I enjoyed had been published. I first read it around 2009 or earlier when it was published online as “How do You Mend a Broken Heart”. This was one of the first Xena AU (alternative universe) stories that I ever read. While reading this version, I noticed a few edits here and there that helped take it out of fanfic realm and scene cuts that were not missed.
There is Dr. Harriet (Harry) Basantes is a modern Xena(ish) character. Tall, dark, blue-eyed, gorgeous, generous, and compassionate lesbian woman who is one of the best orthopedic surgeons in Louisiana. She is also a martial arts master and Desi's protector. The other main character is Desiree (Desi) Thompson who is a year or two younger than Harry and is the modern Gabrielle(ish) character. Short, blond, green-eyed, gorgeous, loving, and a kind woman. She and Harry had been childhood friends that developed into more than just friends in High School. Desi's home life was difficult, a single father and a younger sister, Rachel whom she loved and protected from their abusive father. When her father discovered the relationship, he told Desi she couldn't see her sister, Rachel again if she didn't stop seeing Harry. Harry went off to college, never knowing why Desi broke off all ties with her. Fast forward 16 years and they meet again - in the ER when Desi is brought in with a leg horribly smashed by her abusive husband. Harry, now an orthopedic surgeon, fixes Desi's leg and brings her and Rachel to her large home to recover and to escape and protect Desi from her revengeful husband.
Yeah, at times Harry is too good to be true and some of the situations are over the top, but still you love them both and cheer as their love rekindles. The book also has a strong supporting cast with Rachel, Harry’s best friend Serena and her son Albert, aka Butch and Mona, Harry’s longtime cook and housekeeper.
There was a sequel to the fanfic that was removed so hopefully Vali will publish it as well.
Memorable quotes:
Mona: “What in the hell was that girl thinking, naming that sweet child Albert? Might as well tape a note to his forehead the first day of school with “I’m Albert, please feel free to beat the crap out of me and steal my lunch money.”
And when Desi’s ex-father-in-law grabbed Desi, only to find himself in a painful wrist lock by Harry. Harry: “Try this again, and I’ll break every one of your fingers and name the bones as I do.”
An ARC was given to me by Bold Strokes Books and Netgalley for an honest review.
October 12, 2020
3,5 stars. This was a tough read. The book deals with domestic violence, so I knew it was going to be hard, but it was also full of hope and love. The subject matter was approached very nicely, it is easy to say “I wouldn’t let myself end up in a domestic violence situation”, or “why doesn’t she just leave him/her”, but it is almost never that simple and that’s exactly what this book shows so beautifully. Unfortunately, near the end the story lost it a bit for me which knocks back the rating.
Desi and Harry were high school sweethearts and planning their life together until one day Desi broke off all contact with Harry without an explanation. Harry was devastated and has never really stopped loving Desi even though she’s angry at her for leaving her. Many years later they meet in the hospital as Desi has been abused by her husband and Harry is the attending doctor. Harry is angry and hurt and doesn’t want anything to do with Desi, but she can’t turn her back on Desi when Desi needs help and protection from her abusive husband.
Every story has two sides and Harry reluctantly learns Desi’s side of the story and it is absolutely heartbreaking, but at the same time the book also gives a feeling of hope and safety, which makes the tough stuff more bearable and a bit lighter. Desi is not the person Harry remembers, she’s heavily traumatized and she only very slowly starts trusting Harry. She also heavily regrets some of the choices she was forced to make in her past, thereby hurting Harry.
The characters (and most secondary characters) were very likeable and believable, although Harry is perhaps a bit too perfect. But, for a story like this it is nice to have a knight in shining armor and this type of character is a trademark of Vali so I knew what I was in for. Since the book is about domestic violence, there is a lot of violence in this book. The abuse in Desi’s life is described and it isn’t pretty, but it adds to the story. Domestic abuse just isn’t pretty, so I appreciated that it was not glossed over. However, the book went off track for me near the end, where it shifted from a realistic drama-romance into an over the top crime story. For instance, Desi’s husband and his family were so dumb and unrealistic towards the end it wasn’t believable anymore.
The thing that bothered me most though was that Harry became quite aggressive towards the end and at some point even turned to violence. I don’t mind violence and revenge in books at all when it is a fictional action story, but I think this is a whole different situation. Here we’re talking about a book that, even though it is fiction, is set in the realm of realism and which takes a stand against violence. Yes, I was also angry at the abusers, but acting on it with aggression and violence seems wrong to me. I was also surprised by Desi’s reaction to this, which was pretty calm considering the circumstances. I would think if somebody who has been abused her entire life encounters violence again that would make an impact and probably even more so if the person acting violent is the person she just started trusting and caring about. Obviously, Harry did it all to protect Desi and I’ve read far more violent things, but for this book it just didn’t sit well with me.
So yeah, mixed feelings. I did enjoy reading it, there are absolute wonderful and touching moments, but at other moments it felt like I was reading a book in a different genre.
Desi and Harry were high school sweethearts and planning their life together until one day Desi broke off all contact with Harry without an explanation. Harry was devastated and has never really stopped loving Desi even though she’s angry at her for leaving her. Many years later they meet in the hospital as Desi has been abused by her husband and Harry is the attending doctor. Harry is angry and hurt and doesn’t want anything to do with Desi, but she can’t turn her back on Desi when Desi needs help and protection from her abusive husband.
Every story has two sides and Harry reluctantly learns Desi’s side of the story and it is absolutely heartbreaking, but at the same time the book also gives a feeling of hope and safety, which makes the tough stuff more bearable and a bit lighter. Desi is not the person Harry remembers, she’s heavily traumatized and she only very slowly starts trusting Harry. She also heavily regrets some of the choices she was forced to make in her past, thereby hurting Harry.
The characters (and most secondary characters) were very likeable and believable, although Harry is perhaps a bit too perfect. But, for a story like this it is nice to have a knight in shining armor and this type of character is a trademark of Vali so I knew what I was in for. Since the book is about domestic violence, there is a lot of violence in this book. The abuse in Desi’s life is described and it isn’t pretty, but it adds to the story. Domestic abuse just isn’t pretty, so I appreciated that it was not glossed over. However, the book went off track for me near the end, where it shifted from a realistic drama-romance into an over the top crime story. For instance, Desi’s husband and his family were so dumb and unrealistic towards the end it wasn’t believable anymore.
The thing that bothered me most though was that Harry became quite aggressive towards the end and at some point even turned to violence. I don’t mind violence and revenge in books at all when it is a fictional action story, but I think this is a whole different situation. Here we’re talking about a book that, even though it is fiction, is set in the realm of realism and which takes a stand against violence. Yes, I was also angry at the abusers, but acting on it with aggression and violence seems wrong to me. I was also surprised by Desi’s reaction to this, which was pretty calm considering the circumstances. I would think if somebody who has been abused her entire life encounters violence again that would make an impact and probably even more so if the person acting violent is the person she just started trusting and caring about. Obviously, Harry did it all to protect Desi and I’ve read far more violent things, but for this book it just didn’t sit well with me.
So yeah, mixed feelings. I did enjoy reading it, there are absolute wonderful and touching moments, but at other moments it felt like I was reading a book in a different genre.
October 17, 2020
2.7*
I'll be honest. This was a very difficult read. The story is about Desi, a woman who as been subjected to domestic violence. This maybe a trigger for some people.
Surgeon Harry Basantes is called into the ER when a patient who as been assaulted by her violent husband. She is instantly thrown back sixteen years when she sees Desi Thompson for the first time after just walking away, disappearing without a word.
Desi as always done as shes told, unfortunately that means marrying a man who her father insisted was a better match then Harry. But when she is rushed into the ER at the result of her husbands hands, she cant help wondering if the right thing is worth the cost.
Harry refuses to let Desi go home, even if she as to put her own feelings aside. Can they rekindle their friendship?
Some parts of the story don't feel very realistic to me, so i'm having trouble with the story line. The violence that is described is realistic, but the aftermath, no. The romance that ignites between Desi and Harry was too rushed for my liking. I might be wrong, but anyone who as been beating for many years, along side emotional and financial abuse don't just jump from one relationship to another practically over night. (And i;m speaking from my own personal experiences)
The main characters, Desi is very insecure which led to lots of repetitiveness in the story line. Harry as a bit of a god complex.
I tried to like this book... maybe because I've been through something similar I shouldn't really be writing this review due to comparing my own feelings. SO please take this review with a 'pinch' of salt and read the book for yourself..
I was given a ARC copy for a honest review.
I'll be honest. This was a very difficult read. The story is about Desi, a woman who as been subjected to domestic violence. This maybe a trigger for some people.
Surgeon Harry Basantes is called into the ER when a patient who as been assaulted by her violent husband. She is instantly thrown back sixteen years when she sees Desi Thompson for the first time after just walking away, disappearing without a word.
Desi as always done as shes told, unfortunately that means marrying a man who her father insisted was a better match then Harry. But when she is rushed into the ER at the result of her husbands hands, she cant help wondering if the right thing is worth the cost.
Harry refuses to let Desi go home, even if she as to put her own feelings aside. Can they rekindle their friendship?
Some parts of the story don't feel very realistic to me, so i'm having trouble with the story line. The violence that is described is realistic, but the aftermath, no. The romance that ignites between Desi and Harry was too rushed for my liking. I might be wrong, but anyone who as been beating for many years, along side emotional and financial abuse don't just jump from one relationship to another practically over night. (And i;m speaking from my own personal experiences)
The main characters, Desi is very insecure which led to lots of repetitiveness in the story line. Harry as a bit of a god complex.
I tried to like this book... maybe because I've been through something similar I shouldn't really be writing this review due to comparing my own feelings. SO please take this review with a 'pinch' of salt and read the book for yourself..
I was given a ARC copy for a honest review.
March 31, 2021
At not quite halfway through, I'm done—mostly because it isn't actually a romance. At least, not under my personal definition where a key part of the genre (for me, I reemphasize) is seeing two people fall in love. Harry and Desi start off in love. Have been in love all their lives. Only a cartoonishly evil man got in the way and separated them with homophobic dastardry so they haven't been together for the last sixteen years.
And for a good quarter of the book leading to the reveal, finally, of what happened, I thought I was going to have a problem with Desi. So kudos to Vali for making her choice seem rational? Only, the reason it is rational is because of an irrational, and deadly violent, evil. So I have to take the kudos back, now.
And it actually made some sense once I read other reviews to find that the author came from a Xena fanfic background. Harry bears more than a little resemblance to Xena if you squint just a little. Which nearly made me go back for more because Xena is one of my all-time favorite heroines. Only the story of putting Desi back together again after a decade and a half of being at the mercy of evil snotbags has already tired me out. Seriously, there's enough pathos in this story to sustain a telenovela for a month. Okay, I have no idea if that's true, but I suspect it may be.
Anyway, once everything comes out, it's pretty clear that these two are still in love, have always been in love, and all that's really left is rebuilding Desi and dealing with the cartoon bad guys in a more permanent fashion. And thinking of going through all that leaves me tired. So one star for being not-a-romance, but I'm going to give it a free bonus star for evoking fond memories of one of my favorite TV shows.
And for a good quarter of the book leading to the reveal, finally, of what happened, I thought I was going to have a problem with Desi. So kudos to Vali for making her choice seem rational? Only, the reason it is rational is because of an irrational, and deadly violent, evil. So I have to take the kudos back, now.
And it actually made some sense once I read other reviews to find that the author came from a Xena fanfic background. Harry bears more than a little resemblance to Xena if you squint just a little. Which nearly made me go back for more because Xena is one of my all-time favorite heroines. Only the story of putting Desi back together again after a decade and a half of being at the mercy of evil snotbags has already tired me out. Seriously, there's enough pathos in this story to sustain a telenovela for a month. Okay, I have no idea if that's true, but I suspect it may be.
Anyway, once everything comes out, it's pretty clear that these two are still in love, have always been in love, and all that's really left is rebuilding Desi and dealing with the cartoon bad guys in a more permanent fashion. And thinking of going through all that leaves me tired. So one star for being not-a-romance, but I'm going to give it a free bonus star for evoking fond memories of one of my favorite TV shows.
October 14, 2020
3.5 stars
Harriet (Harry) Basantes is shocked when she discovers the victim of domestic abuse in her emergency department is the woman she once loved, a woman who disappeared from her life without explanation. Her anger and hurt feelings do not stop Harry from doing her job or from accepting the request to ensure Desi’s safety by bringing her home when she is ready to leave the hospital.
Desiree (Desi) Thompson has spent her adult life enduring both physical and emotional abuse in an effort to keep those she loves most safe from harm. She is battered, beaten and broken. She is shocked to see Harry again after sixteen years apart. She wonders if it would have been better to die than risk her husband's wrath directed towards her long ago girlfriend, Harry.
Despite the opening scenes of violence and the persistent threats to Desiree and her sister Rachel, this turned out to be a feel good, second chance romance. The misunderstandings which can drag a romance to a crawl are dealt with quickly and hard feelings between Harry and Desi are soon replaced with the rekindling of their love for one another. The threats Desi has lived with continue, putting her life at risk but having Harry and an entertaining cast of friends and family on her side make Desi hope for a life she thought she would never live to see.
The fanfic origins of this story shine through at times. The Xenaverse allowed many of our best lesfic authors to hone their writing skills. Maybe Harry could have carried Desi less often and maybe the bad guys in this novel are dumber than posts while consumed with homophobic and jealous rage. Hard to know what an abusive spouse will do to control those they think they own. Well done, Ali Vali for shining a light on domestic violence. Most women don’t have a Harry to save them from their violent partners. I’m happy Desi was one of the lucky ones.
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.
Harriet (Harry) Basantes is shocked when she discovers the victim of domestic abuse in her emergency department is the woman she once loved, a woman who disappeared from her life without explanation. Her anger and hurt feelings do not stop Harry from doing her job or from accepting the request to ensure Desi’s safety by bringing her home when she is ready to leave the hospital.
Desiree (Desi) Thompson has spent her adult life enduring both physical and emotional abuse in an effort to keep those she loves most safe from harm. She is battered, beaten and broken. She is shocked to see Harry again after sixteen years apart. She wonders if it would have been better to die than risk her husband's wrath directed towards her long ago girlfriend, Harry.
Despite the opening scenes of violence and the persistent threats to Desiree and her sister Rachel, this turned out to be a feel good, second chance romance. The misunderstandings which can drag a romance to a crawl are dealt with quickly and hard feelings between Harry and Desi are soon replaced with the rekindling of their love for one another. The threats Desi has lived with continue, putting her life at risk but having Harry and an entertaining cast of friends and family on her side make Desi hope for a life she thought she would never live to see.
The fanfic origins of this story shine through at times. The Xenaverse allowed many of our best lesfic authors to hone their writing skills. Maybe Harry could have carried Desi less often and maybe the bad guys in this novel are dumber than posts while consumed with homophobic and jealous rage. Hard to know what an abusive spouse will do to control those they think they own. Well done, Ali Vali for shining a light on domestic violence. Most women don’t have a Harry to save them from their violent partners. I’m happy Desi was one of the lucky ones.
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.
February 20, 2023
Survivors.
This is the first book of the Chance series. I got this audiobook from Audible because I like Lori Prince as a narrator. But I wasn't too excited about the storyline. This story is about a woman finding her way out of an abusive marriage and finally being able to lead the life she's always dreamt about with her ex. And because Desi's marriage to her violent husband, Byron, plays a huge part of the story, the storyline not an easy one. But I thought what made the topic not as difficult as it could be to listen to was the fact that the story isn't entirely realistic because Byron and his family are just too dumb to be real.
Desi has been subjected to years of physical abuse by her father and later her husband, Bryon, and when a particularly brutal episode lands her in a hospital where her ex works as a doctor, Desi finds new hope in life. Harry is a really good catch but because she's still hung up over Desi, she hasn't been able to commit to other women over the years. So when she meets Desi again at the hospital, it doesn't take long before they rekindle their relationship. Harry's love for Desi is gentle and sweet and what they share is solid so I really enjoyed their relationship. And what also got me interested was Desi's recovery process.
I think this is a good story. I like it a lot, particularly because it's such a sweet romance.
This is the first book of the Chance series. I got this audiobook from Audible because I like Lori Prince as a narrator. But I wasn't too excited about the storyline. This story is about a woman finding her way out of an abusive marriage and finally being able to lead the life she's always dreamt about with her ex. And because Desi's marriage to her violent husband, Byron, plays a huge part of the story, the storyline not an easy one. But I thought what made the topic not as difficult as it could be to listen to was the fact that the story isn't entirely realistic because Byron and his family are just too dumb to be real.
Desi has been subjected to years of physical abuse by her father and later her husband, Bryon, and when a particularly brutal episode lands her in a hospital where her ex works as a doctor, Desi finds new hope in life. Harry is a really good catch but because she's still hung up over Desi, she hasn't been able to commit to other women over the years. So when she meets Desi again at the hospital, it doesn't take long before they rekindle their relationship. Harry's love for Desi is gentle and sweet and what they share is solid so I really enjoyed their relationship. And what also got me interested was Desi's recovery process.
I think this is a good story. I like it a lot, particularly because it's such a sweet romance.
September 22, 2020
One More Chance is exactly the kind of romance novel I expect from Ali Vali, and believe me, my expectations from this author are high. As all of you should know by now, I’m a huge fan of Ms. Vali, and I look forward to all of her new works. I can honestly tell you that I could not put this book down once I got into it. Indeed, somewhere around 2:00 A.M. I finally stopped when I fell asleep in bed and smacked myself in the face with my tablet. I woke up early the next morning and finished it then.
The story is well-written, as we would expect of such an accomplished writer. All of the characters, both main and secondary are well-developed. Harry and Desi, the two main characters are her usual butch/femme duo, and the bad guys are really bad in this story. The setting is New Orleans, and this tale is kind of in the Cain Casey/Sept Savoie universe since there are elements and mentions from both series. Sept even makes a cameo appearance in this book.
The story itself is heart wrenching and heartwarming. Though both main characters have known each other since the third grade, the two become separated (unwillingly) after high school, and Desi ends up in a very abusive marriage. It is only after an extremely brutal assault that Desi and Harry meet again. Harry, an orthopedic surgeon, is called to assess Desi’s injuries, and that is how they reunite. Luckily, Harry not only works to treat Desi’s injuries, but also to protect her from the hell she has been living. Of course this leads to even more danger and possibly a second chance at love. It is an intricate and intriguing story worthy of Ali Vali.
As you can tell from what I’ve written above as well as the blurb for the story, a major subject of this novel is domestic violence. It is a subject that I’m sure was hard to write about. However, it is important to talk about and shed light on since this type of abuse is often hidden, and the victims are left feeling alone and ashamed which only makes things worse. What is written in this novel happens in real life to countless women and men. We should never turn away from this subject simply because it is hard or uncomfortable to read about. However, I understand that some may have real problems reading this story because of their own history or the history of a loved one, so consider this a trigger warning for those who may have significant problems reading about spousal abuse.
Ms. Vali has been kind enough to pledge a portion of each sale of this book to her local abuse shelter. She also listed the phone number for the National Violence Hotline which is 1-800-799-7233, and as their motto says, “You are not alone”.
This novel has my highest rating, and I’ve listed it in my favorites folder.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
The story is well-written, as we would expect of such an accomplished writer. All of the characters, both main and secondary are well-developed. Harry and Desi, the two main characters are her usual butch/femme duo, and the bad guys are really bad in this story. The setting is New Orleans, and this tale is kind of in the Cain Casey/Sept Savoie universe since there are elements and mentions from both series. Sept even makes a cameo appearance in this book.
The story itself is heart wrenching and heartwarming. Though both main characters have known each other since the third grade, the two become separated (unwillingly) after high school, and Desi ends up in a very abusive marriage. It is only after an extremely brutal assault that Desi and Harry meet again. Harry, an orthopedic surgeon, is called to assess Desi’s injuries, and that is how they reunite. Luckily, Harry not only works to treat Desi’s injuries, but also to protect her from the hell she has been living. Of course this leads to even more danger and possibly a second chance at love. It is an intricate and intriguing story worthy of Ali Vali.
As you can tell from what I’ve written above as well as the blurb for the story, a major subject of this novel is domestic violence. It is a subject that I’m sure was hard to write about. However, it is important to talk about and shed light on since this type of abuse is often hidden, and the victims are left feeling alone and ashamed which only makes things worse. What is written in this novel happens in real life to countless women and men. We should never turn away from this subject simply because it is hard or uncomfortable to read about. However, I understand that some may have real problems reading this story because of their own history or the history of a loved one, so consider this a trigger warning for those who may have significant problems reading about spousal abuse.
Ms. Vali has been kind enough to pledge a portion of each sale of this book to her local abuse shelter. She also listed the phone number for the National Violence Hotline which is 1-800-799-7233, and as their motto says, “You are not alone”.
This novel has my highest rating, and I’ve listed it in my favorites folder.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
October 2, 2020
Ali Vali is an amazing writer and I am always happy to see a new book of hers. This book deals with domestic abuse and its aftermath, it is a heavy topic.
Desi is married to an abusive man, one night he almost kills her. When the police barges in and takes Desi to the hospital to fix her broken bones all Desi can think about how it might have been better to not have survived another of his moods. In the hospital, Harry gets called in to attend to a patient with a very serious broken leg. Harry gets a good look at the patient and even through the injuries, she can see it's Desi, the woman who shattered her heart 16 years ago. 16 years ago Desi just disappeared from her life, after spending almost their entire lives together up until that point. They even had plans for the future. What Harry doesn't know is that Desi's father was abusive and he forced her to marry her husband. Harry always protected Desi and her sister Rachel, even with her broken heart and 16 years of anger she decides to help them. Having Desi and Rachel in her home makes Harry realise she never loved another woman, never thought about sharing her life with anyone other than Desi.
After reading this book I read some other reviews and discovered it is a dusted-off version of Xena fan-fic, from what I understood this version is better than the original fan-fic. I've never read any Xena fan-fic so I don't know anything about this, all I know is that this book was good. The subject matter is very serious and the abuse scenes are very descriptive, if this is a trigger for you, don't read this book. Besides the abuse there is some levity in the story, of course, there is the romance, but the secondary characters bring the actual levity. Especially Harry's housekeeper Mona is a hoot. The only thing that rubs me the wrong way is that Harry just seems too good to be true at times. And it might have been nice to see some more interaction between the sisters/ family bond in general. Harry is close to her family but they have no part in the story, which seems weird.
Domestic abuse is a serious topic and it got me thinking about all the women (and men) who are suffering even more during the lockdown. I hope they make it, just as Desi did.
Also, shout out to Ali Vali for pledging a portion of each sale to a local program of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Since I received an ARC (and don't live in the USA) I am donating what this book would have cost me to my local organisation against domestic violence.
Desi is married to an abusive man, one night he almost kills her. When the police barges in and takes Desi to the hospital to fix her broken bones all Desi can think about how it might have been better to not have survived another of his moods. In the hospital, Harry gets called in to attend to a patient with a very serious broken leg. Harry gets a good look at the patient and even through the injuries, she can see it's Desi, the woman who shattered her heart 16 years ago. 16 years ago Desi just disappeared from her life, after spending almost their entire lives together up until that point. They even had plans for the future. What Harry doesn't know is that Desi's father was abusive and he forced her to marry her husband. Harry always protected Desi and her sister Rachel, even with her broken heart and 16 years of anger she decides to help them. Having Desi and Rachel in her home makes Harry realise she never loved another woman, never thought about sharing her life with anyone other than Desi.
After reading this book I read some other reviews and discovered it is a dusted-off version of Xena fan-fic, from what I understood this version is better than the original fan-fic. I've never read any Xena fan-fic so I don't know anything about this, all I know is that this book was good. The subject matter is very serious and the abuse scenes are very descriptive, if this is a trigger for you, don't read this book. Besides the abuse there is some levity in the story, of course, there is the romance, but the secondary characters bring the actual levity. Especially Harry's housekeeper Mona is a hoot. The only thing that rubs me the wrong way is that Harry just seems too good to be true at times. And it might have been nice to see some more interaction between the sisters/ family bond in general. Harry is close to her family but they have no part in the story, which seems weird.
Domestic abuse is a serious topic and it got me thinking about all the women (and men) who are suffering even more during the lockdown. I hope they make it, just as Desi did.
Also, shout out to Ali Vali for pledging a portion of each sale to a local program of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Since I received an ARC (and don't live in the USA) I am donating what this book would have cost me to my local organisation against domestic violence.
October 24, 2020
This book showed what Vali does at her best. She wrote an amazingly strong MC (Harry) and a vulnerable lady in trouble (Desi). With domestic violence being the main topic of this book, you may not want to read it. The way it was described made my toes curl, so this will be your trigger warning. This is only in the beginning though, the rest of the book is spent building back trust and making sure Desi is safe and recovering. These are the parts that'll make your toes curl in a very good way!
But also these parts are the reason why I made this a 4-star instead of a 5-star review. I found that Harry and Desi were walking around in circles. And I do get that in situations like these you need to be repetitive towards the person coming out of an abusive relationship. But for me it felt al little too much.
Other than that I really liked and enjoyed the storyline of this book. Vali writes in a way I really feel the emotions and get engrossed in a book. Also the dependable part of this second chance relationship is what really warms me up. Please don't tell other people that I (as a self-respecting, independent woman) love reading about strong and fierce loving butches who take care of you ;)
All in all a great read which fits fantastic in the brand that is Ali Vali.
Check out other reviews at http://lesfic.home.blog/
But also these parts are the reason why I made this a 4-star instead of a 5-star review. I found that Harry and Desi were walking around in circles. And I do get that in situations like these you need to be repetitive towards the person coming out of an abusive relationship. But for me it felt al little too much.
Other than that I really liked and enjoyed the storyline of this book. Vali writes in a way I really feel the emotions and get engrossed in a book. Also the dependable part of this second chance relationship is what really warms me up. Please don't tell other people that I (as a self-respecting, independent woman) love reading about strong and fierce loving butches who take care of you ;)
All in all a great read which fits fantastic in the brand that is Ali Vali.
Check out other reviews at http://lesfic.home.blog/
October 3, 2020
I have mixed feelings about this book. It’s over a 3.5 star but not quite a four. It’s really hard to say you enjoyed something with such serious and difficult topics as domestic violence and homophobia. So I think it’s more appropriate to say I appreciated the writing.
The MCs are Harry and Desi - childhood lovers who met in third grade but due to life circumstances we no longer able to be together after high school. Harry becomes a well respected orthopaedic surgeon and happens to be in the ER the day Desi is brought into the ER after her husband makes an attempt on her life - throwing them together again in ways neither had hoped or expected.
I liked both MCs. Desi was written well to illustrate the feelings people in this situation feel (I have no experience in this situation, so I can only presume sensitivity readers were used to ensure this was accurate). Harry is definitely a character written in the ‘hero’ mould.
Once they are thrown back together a relationship does come around quickly which I struggled with slightly but could also understand. I’ve previously enjoyed books where characters have got back together after break-ups but I have tended to prefer ones where that’s a slower burn so this was a bit different for me.
I liked the secondary characters around the MCs - and even the horrible secondary characters had a purpose to the storyline. The inclusion of Serena, Rachel, Mona and Tony ensures that we see the MCs from different points of view and ensures that we get the opportunities to move away from the violence where possible.
The book comes with many warnings from my point of view, it definitely will not be for everybody, but it is definitely a well written book and from that point of view I can recommend it. I would be interested in a second part of the story.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The MCs are Harry and Desi - childhood lovers who met in third grade but due to life circumstances we no longer able to be together after high school. Harry becomes a well respected orthopaedic surgeon and happens to be in the ER the day Desi is brought into the ER after her husband makes an attempt on her life - throwing them together again in ways neither had hoped or expected.
I liked both MCs. Desi was written well to illustrate the feelings people in this situation feel (I have no experience in this situation, so I can only presume sensitivity readers were used to ensure this was accurate). Harry is definitely a character written in the ‘hero’ mould.
Once they are thrown back together a relationship does come around quickly which I struggled with slightly but could also understand. I’ve previously enjoyed books where characters have got back together after break-ups but I have tended to prefer ones where that’s a slower burn so this was a bit different for me.
I liked the secondary characters around the MCs - and even the horrible secondary characters had a purpose to the storyline. The inclusion of Serena, Rachel, Mona and Tony ensures that we see the MCs from different points of view and ensures that we get the opportunities to move away from the violence where possible.
The book comes with many warnings from my point of view, it definitely will not be for everybody, but it is definitely a well written book and from that point of view I can recommend it. I would be interested in a second part of the story.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2023
This should teach me to read blurbs. Entire book revolves around domestic violence so beware. A bit much for me-instead would have wanted more on the mains reconnecting, how were they different from before, etc. I’ve come to love Lori Prince through the lighter books and Robin Alexander (Lori is perfect for this author and very funny) but was not a good choice for this sobering trope.
September 25, 2020
ARC received via NetGalley and Bold Stroke Books in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger warning, this book focuses on domestic violence and the aftermath.
Domestic violence is a hard topic, but when handled well in a story, it can uplift and inspire while also educating. Unfortunately the handling of the topic here is so over the top it borders on ridiculous for the most part, so didn’t do the topic justice at all, in my opinion.
So, here we have MC Desi, a battered wife who lives with her abusive husband and her sister Rachel. The other MC is Harriet (Harry) an orthopaedic surgeon who is also Desi’s ex-girlfriend. Desi and Harry met in the 3rd grade and loved each other fiercely. Desi lived with her abusive father and her little sister. Both Rachel and Desi spend tons of time with Harry and her family growing up, but somehow never manage to meet Mona, Harry’s housekeeper, who has been with the family since a Harry was a child. I also couldn’t work out why Clyde even let Desi and Rachel spend so much time with Harry growing up if he was so controlling, it just didn’t make sense.
Anyway, they had a love for the ages, but just as Harry was going away to college Desi stopped talking to her (for reasons) and Harry left and didn’t look back. They are then reunited when Desi’s abusive husband puts her in the hospital. Harry happens to be on call and is Desi’s doctor. Upon hearing about the threats to Desi, Harry offers to take her and Rachel in and so the two then spend time together and reconnect. Desi explains why she left and she and Harry are able to move on. The main issue I had with this storyline was that Harry was too... everything, she could carry Desi around (in a mobile cast) for long periods without any issues and she’s sweet and accepting and protective (and of-course, handily trained in martial arts). She also comes with the requisite understanding group of friends who are able to provide Desi and Rachel with everything they need. This group includes ‘Buster’ who is the son of Harry’s ex, and who calls Harry ‘Uncle Harry’ even though Harry doesn’t not go by male pronouns or descriptors in any other aspect of her life. There’s also no real explanation as to why Rachel lived with Desi and Byron or why Byron, abusive ass that he is, would have ‘allowed’ it.
My main issue with the book was the ‘bad guys’. We have Byron, the seemingly crazy husband, who wants Desi back for no reason that I could fathom, since he literally thinks at one point that he just wants to kill her to be free of her, since she wants a divorce, seems like there’d be easier ways to accomplish that. His father (Big Byron 🙄) is even more bat shit crazy, and also wants Desi back, but again, I couldn’t fathom why. They’re also so freaking stupid that I couldn’t take them seriously as a threat. I was seriously amazed either of them could dress themselves. The resolution to both of their story arcs was so over the top it was eye-roll inducing.
I know Vali used to write Xena fanfics, don’t know if this was one, but it read like it likely was. The premise of this was actually interesting and it could have been a better book with a little less maniacal and cartoonish bad guys and a bit more emotional depth. 2.5 stars.
Trigger warning, this book focuses on domestic violence and the aftermath.
Domestic violence is a hard topic, but when handled well in a story, it can uplift and inspire while also educating. Unfortunately the handling of the topic here is so over the top it borders on ridiculous for the most part, so didn’t do the topic justice at all, in my opinion.
So, here we have MC Desi, a battered wife who lives with her abusive husband and her sister Rachel. The other MC is Harriet (Harry) an orthopaedic surgeon who is also Desi’s ex-girlfriend. Desi and Harry met in the 3rd grade and loved each other fiercely. Desi lived with her abusive father and her little sister. Both Rachel and Desi spend tons of time with Harry and her family growing up, but somehow never manage to meet Mona, Harry’s housekeeper, who has been with the family since a Harry was a child. I also couldn’t work out why Clyde even let Desi and Rachel spend so much time with Harry growing up if he was so controlling, it just didn’t make sense.
Anyway, they had a love for the ages, but just as Harry was going away to college Desi stopped talking to her (for reasons) and Harry left and didn’t look back. They are then reunited when Desi’s abusive husband puts her in the hospital. Harry happens to be on call and is Desi’s doctor. Upon hearing about the threats to Desi, Harry offers to take her and Rachel in and so the two then spend time together and reconnect. Desi explains why she left and she and Harry are able to move on. The main issue I had with this storyline was that Harry was too... everything, she could carry Desi around (in a mobile cast) for long periods without any issues and she’s sweet and accepting and protective (and of-course, handily trained in martial arts). She also comes with the requisite understanding group of friends who are able to provide Desi and Rachel with everything they need. This group includes ‘Buster’ who is the son of Harry’s ex, and who calls Harry ‘Uncle Harry’ even though Harry doesn’t not go by male pronouns or descriptors in any other aspect of her life. There’s also no real explanation as to why Rachel lived with Desi and Byron or why Byron, abusive ass that he is, would have ‘allowed’ it.
My main issue with the book was the ‘bad guys’. We have Byron, the seemingly crazy husband, who wants Desi back for no reason that I could fathom, since he literally thinks at one point that he just wants to kill her to be free of her, since she wants a divorce, seems like there’d be easier ways to accomplish that. His father (Big Byron 🙄) is even more bat shit crazy, and also wants Desi back, but again, I couldn’t fathom why. They’re also so freaking stupid that I couldn’t take them seriously as a threat. I was seriously amazed either of them could dress themselves. The resolution to both of their story arcs was so over the top it was eye-roll inducing.
I know Vali used to write Xena fanfics, don’t know if this was one, but it read like it likely was. The premise of this was actually interesting and it could have been a better book with a little less maniacal and cartoonish bad guys and a bit more emotional depth. 2.5 stars.
August 6, 2022
I read this one last year and do remember most of it. To me there was domestic violence in it but no more than in many popular movies. I can understand some readers not wanting to read about it in a romantic book though. Vali does uses violence as a background in many of her stories, especially her Devil series. To me I like to see the bad guys get what they deserve. Gives me hope when good triumphs over evil. I’m looking forward to the next one in this series.
March 17, 2021
Extraordinarily powerful book that was a really hard read, emotionally exhausting. But she writes really well - so, I think, thank you.
October 16, 2020
When I saw this book in the Upcoming section on the BSB website I was so excited to get my hands on it because Ali Vali is one of my favourite authors and the last thing I read of hers was 'On the Rocks' which is a short story that I really loved.
The opening scene grabbed my attention from the get go because of the brutality of what Desi was going through, and the thought of all she'd been going through for years. I couldn't help thinking how satisfying it will be to see Desi's abuser get what's coming to him too. And then we get to the scene where Harry is her doctor and I've mixed feelings, because Harry's so... stoic? Angry, even? Until she hears the true reasons of how Desi ended up in the ER.
The rest of the book was a pain in the arse to read because it was so over the top, the declarations of love and honour... and I can't believe I'm saying this, but there was just way too many sex scenes. I found myself rolling my eyes when it came to Harry and Desi spending any time together, and they're the main characters so that was for most of the book.
The good parts were when the idiot Byron and his brother were in it 'cause they're so daft it was entertaining, and the court scenes with Serena, any time Butch was in the scene and all the times Judge Jude Rose was being a badass judge to Blum.
I was having a hard time believing that I was reading an Vali book which is the only reason I gave this two stars instead of one. This was really disappointing, and I hope the next book in the Cain Casey series makes up for it.
The opening scene grabbed my attention from the get go because of the brutality of what Desi was going through, and the thought of all she'd been going through for years. I couldn't help thinking how satisfying it will be to see Desi's abuser get what's coming to him too. And then we get to the scene where Harry is her doctor and I've mixed feelings, because Harry's so... stoic? Angry, even? Until she hears the true reasons of how Desi ended up in the ER.
The rest of the book was a pain in the arse to read because it was so over the top, the declarations of love and honour... and I can't believe I'm saying this, but there was just way too many sex scenes. I found myself rolling my eyes when it came to Harry and Desi spending any time together, and they're the main characters so that was for most of the book.
The good parts were when the idiot Byron and his brother were in it 'cause they're so daft it was entertaining, and the court scenes with Serena, any time Butch was in the scene and all the times Judge Jude Rose was being a badass judge to Blum.
I was having a hard time believing that I was reading an Vali book which is the only reason I gave this two stars instead of one. This was really disappointing, and I hope the next book in the Cain Casey series makes up for it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2020
Desi is married to an abusive man. When he almost kills her one night, she is taken to the hospital, where her orthopedic surgeon is none other than her high school girlfriend, Harry. In order to protect Desi from further attacks by her husband, Harry allows Desi and her sister to move into her home for recovery.
This book was too full of hard-to-believe coincidences and random facts to make the story work, even for a romance novel. It was also very uneven. At times, the writing was engaging and you cared about the characters and then at others, it seemed to drag on. The main characters' romance felt very unbelievable at times, and in the end, I didn't care whether they ended up together or not, as long as the book ended.
Not my favorite read overall.
This book was too full of hard-to-believe coincidences and random facts to make the story work, even for a romance novel. It was also very uneven. At times, the writing was engaging and you cared about the characters and then at others, it seemed to drag on. The main characters' romance felt very unbelievable at times, and in the end, I didn't care whether they ended up together or not, as long as the book ended.
Not my favorite read overall.
November 12, 2021
I will start be saying, that for some this can be a very difficult book, especially the beginning. If you have been traumatised yourself by domestic violence there are some triggers here, that may be too much.
This was my second book by Ali Vali and, even though my breath caught several times in the beginning, I found this a very good read, especially as Desi, the violated heroine, found her courage and herself again, as did another important character.
The true heroine her, though is Harry, who is a surgeon specialised in traumas involving broken bones. She is a strong and independent character, who may be a bit too self-centred, but isn’t afraid of recognising her shortcomings, when she is called out about them.
The atmosphere is dense and gloomy at first, but changes with the development of the main characters. The end then turns out very satisfying after some well plotted tension and a couple of wonderful twists in the plot.
If you feel confident enough to look at some of the darkest sides of humanity and what humans can do to one another I can wholeheartedly recommend reading it. I will certainly return to this author for more.
This was my second book by Ali Vali and, even though my breath caught several times in the beginning, I found this a very good read, especially as Desi, the violated heroine, found her courage and herself again, as did another important character.
The true heroine her, though is Harry, who is a surgeon specialised in traumas involving broken bones. She is a strong and independent character, who may be a bit too self-centred, but isn’t afraid of recognising her shortcomings, when she is called out about them.
The atmosphere is dense and gloomy at first, but changes with the development of the main characters. The end then turns out very satisfying after some well plotted tension and a couple of wonderful twists in the plot.
If you feel confident enough to look at some of the darkest sides of humanity and what humans can do to one another I can wholeheartedly recommend reading it. I will certainly return to this author for more.
September 28, 2020
“All life is worth living, and if you’re at a point that you feel otherwise, you need to change the things that bring nothing but pain.”
When Desi landed in the ER after a domestic incident, the last person she expected to treat her was the one she turned her head and walked away from sixteen years ago.
For Harriet (Harry), the highly acclaimed and charismatic surgeon on duty, being called into action was the norm except her patient was someone she did not expect to see again.
Although the book did not go easy on the topic of domestic violence, the twisted powers that aggressors wielded and the agony of victims who prayed for escape, the redemptive qualities and power of love shone through. Many times in the book my heart went out for Desi, her fragility and brokenness from her ordeals that were not of her own making. I loved that her rescue came in the form of the suave yet unassuming Harry.
The author’s ability to skilfully weave a touchy yet real issue into a second chance romance is a class act. As the story rolled on and revealed what made Desi walk away all those years ago and her arduous journey back to wholeness, readers can expect gritty nerves, exasperations, fist pumps and yes, gratification.
I just reviewed One More Chance by Ali Vali. #NetGalley
When Desi landed in the ER after a domestic incident, the last person she expected to treat her was the one she turned her head and walked away from sixteen years ago.
For Harriet (Harry), the highly acclaimed and charismatic surgeon on duty, being called into action was the norm except her patient was someone she did not expect to see again.
Although the book did not go easy on the topic of domestic violence, the twisted powers that aggressors wielded and the agony of victims who prayed for escape, the redemptive qualities and power of love shone through. Many times in the book my heart went out for Desi, her fragility and brokenness from her ordeals that were not of her own making. I loved that her rescue came in the form of the suave yet unassuming Harry.
The author’s ability to skilfully weave a touchy yet real issue into a second chance romance is a class act. As the story rolled on and revealed what made Desi walk away all those years ago and her arduous journey back to wholeness, readers can expect gritty nerves, exasperations, fist pumps and yes, gratification.
I just reviewed One More Chance by Ali Vali. #NetGalley
May 28, 2021
A hard pill to swallow
Having been witness to domestic violence toward my mother by a vial man when I was a child, the experience hardened my heart. The abuse itself in One More Chance didn't affect me. I'm not a monster, but I've learned to protect my mind when it comes to physical abuse. Now, the aftermath of the abuse, the emotional aspect which always pairs nicely with denial, shame, and guilt, tears me apart. Desi was a classic case of a battered and shattered woman who was so deep in shame and denial, I wanted to claw my skin and shake her out of it. Vali portrayed Desi beautifully in all her horrendous glory. My stomach twisted and turned anytime Desi reverted back into her shell and had us believing she was going to go back to her husband. Vali gave me heartburn. I get so mad at women who think it's their fault their husband hit them, but at the same time, I understand why they have that kind of mentality. Their abuser groomed them to think that way.
*Personal note: my mother is still terrified of her abuser 30 years later*
Harry's perspective in the story was like reading a completely different book. Sure, Harry was a dream. She was handsome, charming, patient, kind, intelligent, a doctor, and madly in love with Desi. Harry was the kind of woman other women fantasize about. She's the white knight swooping in to save the day. I loved that she was bound and determined to keep Desi safe even when she was conflicted with her emotions towards Desi; she still did the honorable thing. Still trying to find a flaw in Harry, I've been unsuccessful. As much as I liked that Harry never pushed Desi however much her growing devotion and physical attraction grew for Desi, I must say, though, that when Desi healed and professed her intentions and desires to Harry for Harry, it felt rushed. Desi endured years of physical, mental, and emotional abuse and it was like as soon as Harry re-entered her life, all her personal problems dissolved save for her husband and father-in-law. I don't know, it was strange. I really did enjoy this story, but it wasn't quite what I was expecting.
Having been witness to domestic violence toward my mother by a vial man when I was a child, the experience hardened my heart. The abuse itself in One More Chance didn't affect me. I'm not a monster, but I've learned to protect my mind when it comes to physical abuse. Now, the aftermath of the abuse, the emotional aspect which always pairs nicely with denial, shame, and guilt, tears me apart. Desi was a classic case of a battered and shattered woman who was so deep in shame and denial, I wanted to claw my skin and shake her out of it. Vali portrayed Desi beautifully in all her horrendous glory. My stomach twisted and turned anytime Desi reverted back into her shell and had us believing she was going to go back to her husband. Vali gave me heartburn. I get so mad at women who think it's their fault their husband hit them, but at the same time, I understand why they have that kind of mentality. Their abuser groomed them to think that way.
*Personal note: my mother is still terrified of her abuser 30 years later*
Harry's perspective in the story was like reading a completely different book. Sure, Harry was a dream. She was handsome, charming, patient, kind, intelligent, a doctor, and madly in love with Desi. Harry was the kind of woman other women fantasize about. She's the white knight swooping in to save the day. I loved that she was bound and determined to keep Desi safe even when she was conflicted with her emotions towards Desi; she still did the honorable thing. Still trying to find a flaw in Harry, I've been unsuccessful. As much as I liked that Harry never pushed Desi however much her growing devotion and physical attraction grew for Desi, I must say, though, that when Desi healed and professed her intentions and desires to Harry for Harry, it felt rushed. Desi endured years of physical, mental, and emotional abuse and it was like as soon as Harry re-entered her life, all her personal problems dissolved save for her husband and father-in-law. I don't know, it was strange. I really did enjoy this story, but it wasn't quite what I was expecting.
September 12, 2020
Domestic Violence it’s powerful topic whether is physical or verbally. It’s takes a strong person to leave. It’s takes a stronger person to stay.
Desi sacrifice her life to protect the two people she loves the most. Desi and Harry met when they were young children and became best friends and then their feelings change into more. When Desi father Clyde learns of this relationship he goes crazy which surprise her because he doesn’t care for her or her sister Rachel when he tells her to never see Harry again or her sister Rachel and Harry will suffer she complies and marry a man that her father chooses Bryon who is more worst then her father.
Harry is shock when she called to the ER to help a assaulted patient get the surprise of her life when sees it’s her childhood sweetheart Desi who disappears without a word. Harry who is still hurting over Desi disappears is surprise to learn why she never contact her and the sacrifice she made. Harry vows to stand by Desi and help her through this while they try to rebuild their relationship. I love the supporting characters Rachel Serena Mona as they help Desi and Harry. I like how they go into details on how to proceed and how hard to get a conviction when it comes to abuse.
Overall a good read despite what the topic is on.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Desi sacrifice her life to protect the two people she loves the most. Desi and Harry met when they were young children and became best friends and then their feelings change into more. When Desi father Clyde learns of this relationship he goes crazy which surprise her because he doesn’t care for her or her sister Rachel when he tells her to never see Harry again or her sister Rachel and Harry will suffer she complies and marry a man that her father chooses Bryon who is more worst then her father.
Harry is shock when she called to the ER to help a assaulted patient get the surprise of her life when sees it’s her childhood sweetheart Desi who disappears without a word. Harry who is still hurting over Desi disappears is surprise to learn why she never contact her and the sacrifice she made. Harry vows to stand by Desi and help her through this while they try to rebuild their relationship. I love the supporting characters Rachel Serena Mona as they help Desi and Harry. I like how they go into details on how to proceed and how hard to get a conviction when it comes to abuse.
Overall a good read despite what the topic is on.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
November 12, 2022
I absolutely love Harry and Desi. Poor Desi has suffered so much violence in her young life. The only person she has ever loved and wanted is Harry and a chance encounter, after her husband puts her in the hospital, brings Harry back into her life. Harry lives for her job and her small family of friends. The love of her life, left her without a word when there life together should have just been beginning. All her past hurts and love comes rushing back when Desi shows up on her operating table broken and defeated. I love these two together. Harry gives Desi the love and courage she’s needed since their forced separation. The love and feelings they have for one another is palpable. Even their hurt and sadness. Learning of the reasons behind their years long separation was heart breaking. Desi sacrificed so much in the only way she knew to protect Harry and her sister. I hope we get more of them and their small group in another book. Love them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2020
Desi Thompson didn’t have that great a childhood but when she met Harry Basantes on her sister Rachel’s first day of school she felt she’d won the lottery. When her mother died it left both Desi and Her little sister with an abusive father.Harry started inviting her, along with Rachel into her world. A place with parents so far removed from where she was living she couldn’t believe it. Harry's parents quickly became in many respects the mom and dad she longed for. Harry was a friend she could count on, whether it was helping with the lessons from school or introducing Desi and Rachel to a world of fun. As Desi and Harry grew they discovered the feeling they had for each other were more than ‘just friends’ so they started planning a life together. Harry also recognised the fact that where Desi went so did her little sister.
When Desi’s father saw the two girls making out he quickly cut them off from each other. Using threats against Harry, Desi couldn’t do anything but follow her father's orders. She stopped seeing Harry, dropping out of her life all together. While not understanding why all of a sudden Desi wasn’t going to be a part of the life they’d planned.
It isn’t until Desi was rushed to the emergency department with her injuries that Harry realized Desi didn’t leave her behind because that was what she wanted but what her father had made her do, using his fist to keep her in line. Now they were back together and Harry was determined she wasn’t going to lose Desi again.
Ms Vali knows how to tell a great story. A very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
When Desi’s father saw the two girls making out he quickly cut them off from each other. Using threats against Harry, Desi couldn’t do anything but follow her father's orders. She stopped seeing Harry, dropping out of her life all together. While not understanding why all of a sudden Desi wasn’t going to be a part of the life they’d planned.
It isn’t until Desi was rushed to the emergency department with her injuries that Harry realized Desi didn’t leave her behind because that was what she wanted but what her father had made her do, using his fist to keep her in line. Now they were back together and Harry was determined she wasn’t going to lose Desi again.
Ms Vali knows how to tell a great story. A very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
October 1, 2020
Hard but Good
Harry and Desi were childhood sweethearts then Desi disappeared. Sixteen years later and they meet again… in the ER after her husband had beaten her nearly to death. Harry refuses to let Desi go back to her abuser and does her best to keep her safe even though it means opening up old wounds… When secrets come to light will they have a second chance at the future that once was taken from them both?
WHEW! This book is rough! Domestic violence is a major theme in this story and the abuse Desi suffered is serious and has spanned sixteen years. There are scenes where she is being beaten and nearly killed, there are times where Desi talks about what happened and sexual assault is hinted at, this is NOT something to read if there are triggers for you!! I didn’t realize it would be so… graphic, present and not told from a passive, removed place… The saga also tells of Desi’s legal battles, her husband’s actions and reactions, and other tense things. All that being said, this is an Ali Vali book so the writing is excellent as the woman is seriously gifted! It’s vibrant and gritty, strong and powerful… The story is a hard read but it was not one that I was able to put down. It was compelling and engaging. It was filled with hope and love along with the pain and suffering. It was beautiful to watch Desi and Harry reconnect and get to know each other again. Harry is so sweet and protective, the whole loving romance part of the book is every bit as soft and wonderful as the other stuff is harsh. The ending is perfect and everything I could have hoped for and more and worth the pain it took to get there. I won’t be rereading this one but I did like it very much.
Harry and Desi were childhood sweethearts then Desi disappeared. Sixteen years later and they meet again… in the ER after her husband had beaten her nearly to death. Harry refuses to let Desi go back to her abuser and does her best to keep her safe even though it means opening up old wounds… When secrets come to light will they have a second chance at the future that once was taken from them both?
WHEW! This book is rough! Domestic violence is a major theme in this story and the abuse Desi suffered is serious and has spanned sixteen years. There are scenes where she is being beaten and nearly killed, there are times where Desi talks about what happened and sexual assault is hinted at, this is NOT something to read if there are triggers for you!! I didn’t realize it would be so… graphic, present and not told from a passive, removed place… The saga also tells of Desi’s legal battles, her husband’s actions and reactions, and other tense things. All that being said, this is an Ali Vali book so the writing is excellent as the woman is seriously gifted! It’s vibrant and gritty, strong and powerful… The story is a hard read but it was not one that I was able to put down. It was compelling and engaging. It was filled with hope and love along with the pain and suffering. It was beautiful to watch Desi and Harry reconnect and get to know each other again. Harry is so sweet and protective, the whole loving romance part of the book is every bit as soft and wonderful as the other stuff is harsh. The ending is perfect and everything I could have hoped for and more and worth the pain it took to get there. I won’t be rereading this one but I did like it very much.
October 15, 2020
Powerful and hard biting story of domestic violence. This story of love for the ages involves Harriet "Harry" Basantes successful yet heart broken orthopedic surgeon and Desi Thompson, in a marriage she did not expect or want and boy does she suffer. This read had some very tough domestic violence passages. But the support of her sister (Rachel), friends (Mona, Albert, Serena, Kenneth, Tony), and especially Harry, make it bearable. Harry proved to be awesome and ready to take on all comers that had ill intentions toward Desi and her sister Rachel. Desi was wounded mentally, emotionally, and physically and you wanted her to pull it together and believe in herself.
Although a challenging subject matter, I thought it was handled well because there was a wonderful and caring support group.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
Although a challenging subject matter, I thought it was handled well because there was a wonderful and caring support group.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
December 10, 2020
This was a great book it had a lot of hard subjects to deal with and a few scenes were hard to listen too, one never wants to read about abuse no matter what kind but it was necessary to have that to get the storyline flowing. Sometimes you have to take the bad to get to the good and that is what Vali has given us with this book
October 26, 2020
I remember, back in my fanfic consuming days, reading the Harry and Desi series and enjoying it. When I saw the published version hit NetGalley, I knew I had to give it a shot.
The story and characters are as I remembered them. What I didn't factor in is that my tastes have changed. Harry is Vali's typical perfect butch fighting and loving the perfect femme. I enjoy butch/femme stories, it's the perfect part that becomes trying for me.
I moved pretty quickly through the first 90% of the book but got burned out on the perfection and over the top romance bits. Again, this is what you usually get from old Ali Vali stories and if you know that going in, you're probably good to go. I really struggled with that last 10% though. I think I was just ready to end my visit with Harry and Desi.
If you're a fan of Vali's old school romances, you'll very likely enjoy One More Chance.
Thanks to Bold Strokes and NetGalley for the chance to check back in on the Basantes family.
The story and characters are as I remembered them. What I didn't factor in is that my tastes have changed. Harry is Vali's typical perfect butch fighting and loving the perfect femme. I enjoy butch/femme stories, it's the perfect part that becomes trying for me.
I moved pretty quickly through the first 90% of the book but got burned out on the perfection and over the top romance bits. Again, this is what you usually get from old Ali Vali stories and if you know that going in, you're probably good to go. I really struggled with that last 10% though. I think I was just ready to end my visit with Harry and Desi.
If you're a fan of Vali's old school romances, you'll very likely enjoy One More Chance.
Thanks to Bold Strokes and NetGalley for the chance to check back in on the Basantes family.
July 17, 2021
2.5 star rating
This is definitely the mushiest Ali Vali story I have ever read. I tried very hard to put on my empathy hat above all criticism but I just couldn't. I understand the theme is woven round domestic abuses but oh my goodness...the mushiness was just too much...too much.
This is definitely the mushiest Ali Vali story I have ever read. I tried very hard to put on my empathy hat above all criticism but I just couldn't. I understand the theme is woven round domestic abuses but oh my goodness...the mushiness was just too much...too much.
October 7, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC of this book.
Content warning: Domestic violence is a major theme in this book.
This book was lukewarm for me, which is weird to say considering the extremely heavy subject matter. The plot was well-crafted, but I don’t think it was much of a romance novel. When I read romance, I’m looking for internal feelings of yearning and sweet butterflies-in-the-tummy moments. Unfortunately, I don’t think this book had much of either. We’re told that Harry and Desi have been the loves of each other’s lives since grade school, but I found their flashback scenes sorely lacking in depth. Harry’s and Desi’s conversations are just them repeating the same thing over and over — “it’s always been you, you’re the love of my life” etc etc. And even though I’m not one to enjoy sex scenes that much, I can appreciate them when they’re well-written. But I just found the sex scenes in this story to be cringe-worthy.
Harry is this magnanimous character who is bursting with gallant traits. I almost feel like she’s the embodiment of the “macho” stereotype. She has no real flaws except for being a really cringey/inappropriate “uncle” to her ex’s kid. And literally everywhere she goes, women are drooling over her. Is that really realistic, considering the proportion of queer women in the population?
And Desi...it’s hard to say. Most of her arc focuses on her being the victim of horrendous abuse, and it makes sense why that part of her life is front-and-center, not leaving room for a lot of her true personality to scratch the surface. But still, I feel like there must be a way to portray that without making Desi an incredibly dull character. Even in the grade school scenes, she’s boring and her only personality trait is being wildly in love with Harry *yawns.*
And now for the side characters. I found Desi’s sister Rachel way more interesting than either of the two mains. And Serena irked me for some reason; it seemed like she was constantly overstepping.
Oh, and don’t get me started on the bad guys. Yes, Ali Vali does a great job of making you loathe them infinitely, but they almost read as caricatures (actually, almost all the characters in this book read as caricatures/stereotypes). And did we really need so many scenes from Byron’s POV?? Ugh, I hated reading those. Why couldn’t we have more sweet Harry/Desi scenes instead?? After all, this is supposed to be a romance novel...
The only time I really felt something was 85% of the way through, and those feelings had nothing to do with Harry or Desi. I did start to enjoy this story a bit more toward the end, but it never really got satisfying for me.
Overall, this wasn’t my favorite read. I can see why people liked it, but it didn’t do much for me.
Content warning: Domestic violence is a major theme in this book.
This book was lukewarm for me, which is weird to say considering the extremely heavy subject matter. The plot was well-crafted, but I don’t think it was much of a romance novel. When I read romance, I’m looking for internal feelings of yearning and sweet butterflies-in-the-tummy moments. Unfortunately, I don’t think this book had much of either. We’re told that Harry and Desi have been the loves of each other’s lives since grade school, but I found their flashback scenes sorely lacking in depth. Harry’s and Desi’s conversations are just them repeating the same thing over and over — “it’s always been you, you’re the love of my life” etc etc. And even though I’m not one to enjoy sex scenes that much, I can appreciate them when they’re well-written. But I just found the sex scenes in this story to be cringe-worthy.
Harry is this magnanimous character who is bursting with gallant traits. I almost feel like she’s the embodiment of the “macho” stereotype. She has no real flaws except for being a really cringey/inappropriate “uncle” to her ex’s kid. And literally everywhere she goes, women are drooling over her. Is that really realistic, considering the proportion of queer women in the population?
And Desi...it’s hard to say. Most of her arc focuses on her being the victim of horrendous abuse, and it makes sense why that part of her life is front-and-center, not leaving room for a lot of her true personality to scratch the surface. But still, I feel like there must be a way to portray that without making Desi an incredibly dull character. Even in the grade school scenes, she’s boring and her only personality trait is being wildly in love with Harry *yawns.*
And now for the side characters. I found Desi’s sister Rachel way more interesting than either of the two mains. And Serena irked me for some reason; it seemed like she was constantly overstepping.
Oh, and don’t get me started on the bad guys. Yes, Ali Vali does a great job of making you loathe them infinitely, but they almost read as caricatures (actually, almost all the characters in this book read as caricatures/stereotypes). And did we really need so many scenes from Byron’s POV?? Ugh, I hated reading those. Why couldn’t we have more sweet Harry/Desi scenes instead?? After all, this is supposed to be a romance novel...
The only time I really felt something was 85% of the way through, and those feelings had nothing to do with Harry or Desi. I did start to enjoy this story a bit more toward the end, but it never really got satisfying for me.
Overall, this wasn’t my favorite read. I can see why people liked it, but it didn’t do much for me.
October 4, 2020
One More Chance was in many ways a difficult story to read. I have not experience domestic violence first hand but have known women who have. Taking such a huge topic can either go in either a good or bad direction. Even though this is a difficult topic to discuss I think Ali does a good job with the scenes and the aftermath of the violence.
Harry Basantes and Desi Thompson met when they were children. They grew to love one another and become girlfriends who planned a future together. Right after graduation Desi disappears from Harry's life leaving Harry to wonder for the last 16 years why. Things change when Harry who is now an orthopedic surgeon is called to consult a woman in the ER. Turns out that woman is Desi.
As I stated One More Chance is a hard one to read. The impacts of domestic violence affects women deeply and it is hard to leave when you are scared for your life. One more chance shows us this violent behavior and the aftermath of this violence. You come to see how the mains have to come to terms with all the things that have happen in the past and are able to move on in the future. My main complaint about this one is that Ali does such a good job showing the violence but I wish more time was spent on the real healing. The coming together of the mains seemed a tad bit too quick considering what has happened. I just needed more on the healing to really be satisfied.
3.75 stars
This arc was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
Harry Basantes and Desi Thompson met when they were children. They grew to love one another and become girlfriends who planned a future together. Right after graduation Desi disappears from Harry's life leaving Harry to wonder for the last 16 years why. Things change when Harry who is now an orthopedic surgeon is called to consult a woman in the ER. Turns out that woman is Desi.
As I stated One More Chance is a hard one to read. The impacts of domestic violence affects women deeply and it is hard to leave when you are scared for your life. One more chance shows us this violent behavior and the aftermath of this violence. You come to see how the mains have to come to terms with all the things that have happen in the past and are able to move on in the future. My main complaint about this one is that Ali does such a good job showing the violence but I wish more time was spent on the real healing. The coming together of the mains seemed a tad bit too quick considering what has happened. I just needed more on the healing to really be satisfied.
3.75 stars
This arc was provided by the publisher for an honest review.
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