Review: The Second Love Of My Life by Victoria Walters

Victoria Walters' debut novel is a powerful tale of love, grief and survival, perfect for fans of Cecelia Ahern, Lucy Dillon and Miranda Dickinson. 'Brilliant and superior women's fiction' Heat

In the Cornish town of Talting, everyone is famous for something.

Until recently Rose was known for many things: her infectious positivity; her unique artistic talent; and her devotion to childhood sweetheart Lucas.

But two years ago that changed in one unthinkable moment. Now, Rose is known for being the young woman who became a widow aged just twenty-four.

Though Rose knows that life must go on, the thought of carving out a new future for herself is one she can barely entertain. Until a newcomer, Robert, arrives in Talting for the summer...Can Rose allow herself the chance to love again?

Let me tell you again that I am not normally big on chick lit and similar. They are often very predictable and its just about enjoying the ride even tho you know how its going to end. But I still very much wanted to read this one and I am glad I managed to get hold of a copy.

Rose had it all, married to her best friend and love of her life, happy painting and loving life in the idyllic Talting. When her husband Lucas dies in an accident caused by a drunk driver, she not only looses the love of her life but also herself. Unable to paint, she has lost a big part of her life.

When a stranger turns up in Talting to buy her last paintings, painted before Lucas' death, her world is turned upside down. She finds herself very smitten with Robert, but is it to early to fall for someone else? Can she ever love someone other then Lucas?

As they come closer it becomes apparent that Robert wants to tell Rose something, but he cant quite bring himself to spill it out. Why did Robert really come over to buy her painting tho? What is he hiding? Robert awakes things in Rose she hasn't felt in some time. Will she finally be able to find herself?

This was a lovely story that was wonderfully written. While I could guess the end I still enjoyed it very much. We almost get to stories in one. The story of Rose and Lucas and the story of Rose and Robert. I love the sound of Talting, it sounds absolutely beautiful. A place where everyone knows each others business, but one where everyone is helping each other.

Personally I am very smitten by both Lucas and Robert myself and I really like Rose. Her transformation is beautiful to watch and I have been rooting for her to be happy from page one. I adored Rose's friendship with Emma too, two best friends that are always there for each other, no matter what.

This has been a very emotional but uplifting book. With a satisfying end. Victoria Walters has created a stunning debut and I believe there will be many more beautiful books to come.

Thank you to Bookbridgr for my copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Second Love of my Life has been released on 7th April.