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Second Helpings: A queer m/m second chance cozy romance

Dylan Morrison
4.3 / 5.0
Published: 2026

Description

Ten years ago, a single tragic event shattered the world of high school sweethearts Sam and Jake, sending them down separate paths and leaving their shared dreams in the rearview mirror. Now, life has brought them back to the quiet, familiar streets of their hometown, where the echoes of their past are impossible to ignore. Sam is determined to keep his head down and focus on his bakery, but when Jake reappears, the chemistry that once defined their youth begins to simmer beneath the surface once again. This cozy, heartwarming tale captures the delicate dance of rekindling a lost connection. As they navigate the mystery of what truly drove them apart so many years ago, Sam and Jake must decide if they are brave enough to risk their hearts a second time. Set against a backdrop of small-town charm and sweet, culinary comforts, this story balances gentle humor with the emotional weight of long-held secrets. It is a tender exploration of forgiveness, growth, and the enduring power of first love. Whether you are returning to this beloved fictional universe or meeting these characters for the first time, this story offers a comforting, soul-warming look at what it means to come home.

Customer Reviews

Top 3 from Amazon
L
Libby
May 21, 2026

Cute, sweet, and funny!

Sam & Jake. Cute, sweet, and funny!! Sam and Jake were neighbors in high school until a tragic event tore them apart. Over a decade later, Sam is working in his family’s deli when it gets a terrible review wiping out their customer base. As if things couldn’t get any worse, Jake then walks back into his life… I loved the humor with which Sam’s character was written and his chaotic thinking. I enjoyed his character development throughout the story. Jake and Sam work well together, balancing out one another. I also really felt for Jake throughout the story. The found family theme with the deli employees was sweet and the dog, Pastrami, was definitely a highlight! All of the supporting characters were lovely. Such great female supporting characters who actually had personality and plot. A fun read! Thanks to NetGalley, the author, and Storm Publishing for giving me an ARC of the book.
K
KB
May 21, 2026

Cozy

*Second Helpings* offers a delightful treat. Set in the same universe as Morrison’s previous novel, *Fall into You*, this charming rom-com explores second chances. When Sam's Ohio deli faces closure after a bad review, his high school crush returns to town. Now in his thirties, they've both matured and reconnected. However, unresolved issues from their past must be addressed before they can consider reigniting what once was. Much like Morrison's earlier work, this novel features compelling characters you root for, with a side of appetizing details. First apples, now all things deli—what’s next?! The story includes notable Midwestern queer representation. It’s a cozy blend of sweet and savory that’s perfect for curling up with.
K
Kindle Customer
May 22, 2026

Sweet romance at its best!

Absolutely loved it! This is second chance romance, and I loved how the author handled both the gradual reveal of the mystery of what drove the MCs apart the first time, but also the insight into how the two teenagers handled the terrible event and grew into the men they became. This book is really about how easy it is to make mistakes and that the best we can do after is try to do better. All of the characters, main and supporting, were wonderfully developed, so that you feel really invested in all of them. The book is single POV which I think was well done. The book also has plenty of plot to keep you engaged, not just the mystery of what caused their initial split. The author is a skilled writer who made me feel every bit of the romance (and skillfully provided the answer every time I found myself wondering "But what about...?"). Enjoyed this very much and highly recommend it!