Lead guitarist Jordan McKenna is used to women falling all over him.  After all, he’s part of the hit country band, The Donnor Boys.  Callie Jacobs frustrates him from their very first meeting, as she is quick to put him in his place.  The attraction between them simmers, however, but things are about to go horribly wrong when both are betrayed in the most horrific of ways…. 

Only CJ England could write this story.  She sensitively addresses an issue that is perhaps one of the most frightening to women- the issue of rape.  I must admit that despite my complete admiration for anything written by Ms. England, it was with great trepidation that I started reading this latest tale.  How could such a touchy subject as rape be addressed in a romance?  I should have had faith.  CJ England not only discusses this delicate issue and its impact on Callie, she also addresses how others around her are impacted.   

Jordan’s role in all of this is absolutely pivotal.  He is an emotional character and his anger could have frightened Callie forever.  Instead, his pain reaches out to the reader.  I cried through most of this heart wrenching story.  I cried for Callie, for Jordan, but most of all, I cried for every man, woman, or child who has ever been impacted by rape.  CJ England sheds light on an uncomfortable subject while still giving readers her signature happily ever after.  Not only that, she includes the steamy moments her fans expect in perhaps the most caring scenes yet! 

My temper boiled during certain moments in this story.  Furious at what was done to Callie, I wanted to reach into the pages of the story and throttle the responsible character.  Jordan’s anger actually helped ease my own, as his reaction was one I could relate to.  CJ England’s inclusion of Jordan’s parents in the overall healing process is a masterful stroke of genius as it is a gentle reminder that love and support can conquer even the most hideous of deeds. 

SECOND CHANCES: WAITING IN THE WINGS is a story that all should read.  CJ England has written her most powerful story to date.  Keep your box of Kleenex handy, however, as the impact of this story is absolutely gut wrenching.  SECOND CHANCES: WAITING IN THE WINGS isn’t necessarily an easy story to read as it deals with difficult and tough issues, but the ending makes this story worth every tear jerking moment!  Having personally known someone raped in a similar manner, I can say that CJ England not only does a beautiful job at portraying the pain and anguish of all affected, but she provides that much needed happily ever after to remind us all of just how important love truly is.

Reviewed by Anne

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Posted October 2007