Wendy's Reviews > Sleigh Bells and Second Chances

This is a stand alone novel in the ‘Love in Mission City’ universe. You don’t have to read the other books in the series to understand this book, but you’d be missing key characters and how the Mission City universe characters play an important part in the stories. I suggest reading them all to get the full effect that the author is trying to impart.

A few things struck me while reading this book. First, I truly believe that I’ve become a better person by reading Gabbi Grey’s stories. I’ve learned compassion and tolerance, I’ve learned empathy and have a newfound respect for the environment. I can count on this author doing their best to be sensitive to other cultures. I’ve learned fun things like Tiger Tail ice cream and the thing I learned in this book particularly is how important friends are and that they’re there even if you don’t realize.

Sometimes you start out reading a book looking for romance or drama or mystery and you wind up with a whole life lesson implanted in your brain. That happens to me a lot when reading this author.

That said... this is the best book that I’ve read this year. Let me say that again... THIS IS THE BEST BOOK I’VE READ THIS YEAR! Hands down!

Ryan and Simeon are an absolutely destined to be together forever but don’t quite realize it couple and I couldn’t love that more.

Ryan is recovering from physical and emotional trauma that he sustained during a tour in the Ukraine and doesn’t even know that he needs a friend or friends until Simeon gently insinuates himself into his life. It takes a lot of patience and hard (or not so hard) work and a sweet boy who has his own issues and a new video game for him to even ask himself if he’s deserving of friendship and then love. There’s also help from some canine friends who are very wise and unexpectedly adorkable.

Simeon is just the sweetest guy I think I’ve ever read. He also doesn’t feel deserving of friendship or love but he is drawn to Ryan and can’t stay away. They form a bond that was pure joy to watch along with Simeon’s grands, Nanny and Bops. I adore Nanny and now need a large pan of lasagna.

This was a slow burn because it had to be and it was done perfectly. Seriously, the writing in this story is phenomenal!

If reading about two broken men finding each other and their journey of healing, finding friends and love is what you like then this book will definitely be your jam.