One More Chance by Ali ValiOne More Chance by Ali Vali is a heart-tugging, second chance romance. It is also a story about painful losses, forgiveness and wonderful do-overs.

All is well in Dr. Harriet “Harry” Basantes’ world until she is called to the ER to examine a patient who has been brutally beaten by her husband. Harry finally laid eyes on her childhood sweetheart, Desi Thompson, for the first time in sixteen years. Desi vanished from her life right after their graduation and all of Harry’s dreams and plans for their future fell apart.

Desi always does what is right, even if her decisions cost her the peace of mind and happiness she has always craved. She married the man her father approved of and she walked away from the only woman she has ever loved. But a simple twist of fate brings Desi back into Harry’s life when she ends up in the ER after her husband assaults her.

Will Harry and Desi be able to follow their hearts and put their fears aside so that they could have the love and life they’ve always desired?

The Characters

Dr. Harriet “Harry” Basantes is one of the best orthopedic surgeons at the University Medical Center in New Orleans. Desiree “Desi” Simoneaux has been beaten by her husband so many times and she is ready to walk away from their marriage once and for all. I’ve got tons of respect for Desi and Harry because these phenomenal women had to come to terms with their painful breakup when they were teenagers. Plus, they had to sort out their feelings for each other and their emotional baggage while they tried to keep a low profile so that Desi’s husband wouldn’t find her. I must say that all the characters in this story were well-written and relatable because I felt as though Harry, Desi, Rachel, Kenneth and Mona were some of my closest friends.

The Writing Style

This author has gone above and beyond to give me a touching story that took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride with Desi, Rachel and Harry. I’m pretty sure that I won’t forget Harry and Desi anytime soon because Ali Vali has given me a vivid and heartbreaking portrayal of the reasons why some women stay in abusive relationships. I am a huge fan of surprises and I got the best surprise of all when a few beloved characters from Ali Vali’s other books made a brief appearance in this story. I love the fact that this story was told through Harry and Desi’s points of view because I could easily understand what made them tick. Plus, I felt like I was right there beside these awesome women when they slowly fell in love with each other again.

My Favourite Parts

I’ve got a special place in my heart for all medical professionals and I am not ashamed to admit that I was making love faces at my kindle from the moment Harry was mentioned. This story brought so much joy to my heart even though it deals with the devastating effects of domestic violence. I am raising my coffee mug in Ali Vali’s honor because she brought Desi’s slow and steady progress to life for me. I am the kind of woman who loves to see other women overcome the challenges in their lives and I was cheering for Desi, Rachel and Harry until I got to the last page.

Heads Up

This story contains a few scenes with graphic descriptions of verbal and physical abuse and these scenes could be triggers for some readers.

The Conclusion

aprils favourite booksI’m a huge sucker for second chance romances but this novel is so much more than that because it is a story about starting over from scratch and finding hope in the midst of despair. This story will crack your heart wide open and it is totally worth it. Just make sure that you’ve got your favorite snacks close by because you wouldn’t want to stop reading once you get past the first page.

Excerpt from One More Chance by Ali Vali

“Hey,” she said when Rachel opened Desi’s door for her. “I wanted to let you know that I won’t be transferring your case to my colleague, and I talked to the detective. He says you need a place to stay.”

“Yes,” Rachel said quickly, as if trying to shut Desi down before she said otherwise.

“We’ll think of something, but thanks,” Desi said, glaring at Rachel.

Harry ignored the warning bells going off in her head and plunged forward. “You don’t have to say yes, but I can’t let you out of here if there’s a chance you’ll end up coming back in worse shape or… dead. Forget about our past, and think about your future, Desi. No matter what I did to make you change your mind about us,” she said, dropping her crossed arms so she didn’t appear confrontational, “don’t let it cloud your judgment.”

“I screwed up, but you don’t need to take on my problems. If something happened to you…” Desi clamped her mouth shut and her eyes got watery.

“Let me worry about Byron, and let me take care of you until you can do it for yourself. You’re in no condition to be able to defend yourself, and Landry thinks it would be good for you to be someplace Byron won’t think to look. With someone who knows you.” She couldn’t bring herself to say with a friend.

“Are you sure?” Desi’s voice was barely audible.

She wasn’t in the least bit sure, but they didn’t need to know that. “Rachel, I’ll leave you directions to the house, and you can help get it ready for your sister.” She smiled at Rachel’s excitement and turned to Desi. “The rest we’ll figure out as we go, but at least you’ll be safe.”

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Bits and Bobs

  • ISBN number: 978163555-5370
  • Publisher: Bold Strokes Books

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Note: I received a free review copy of One More Chance by Ali Vali. No money was exchanged for this review. When you use our links to buy we get a small commission which supports the running of this site