jessica, ma’am, where should i mail my therapy bill????

this book made me feel every single human emotion in the span of two days. debilitating hurt, intense anger and frustration, and overwhelming tenderness and adoration. the story this book tells is real and raw. it’s strong and full of love of all kinds, familial, platonic, and romantic. that’s something jessica sherry does that i absolutely adore. she does not skimp on connection between all of these characters, characters who have all loved and lost so significantly.

i have no less than 20+ highlights in this book because jessica’s writing is so FULL without being cluttered or dense. i’m going to include some of my favorites below:

“He’s handsome, in a rough and rugged way, like he was once a kid who climbed trees rather than played video games.”

“Worry creases his forehead, but small starbursts around his eyes tell me he’s no stranger to laughter.”

“She has sunset hair-I decided.”

“I want to be one of her freckles, forever attached.”

I cannot say enough good things about this book and the tender narrative Jessica created. I will DEFINITELY be buying a signed paperback to have as a trophy on my bookshelves.

all of my gratitude to netgalley and jessica sherry for the arc!!!

Captivating romance novel that delves into the complexities of second chances and personal growth. Set against a backdrop of emotional depth, the story navigates through the lives of its characters, exploring themes of resilience, forgiveness, and the enduring power of love. Sherry's writing style beautifully captures the intricacies of relationships, making this book a heartfelt journey that resonates long after the final page. Perfect for readers who enjoy heartfelt stories with a touch of emotional depth.

"We've got chainsaws, hungry gators, and alibis." <--- This qoute will stick with me forever! First off, thank you to the publisher for giving me an ARC of Every Chance After by Jessica Sherry. Let me just say that this book came out strong in the beginning and had me hooked. You got your broody, "shadowman"(thanks to Marigold for the nickname), hard shelled Grady Tripp whose just existing or trying to exist. Then one day, he makes a mistake that brings our happy-go-lucky, second chance giving FMC Marina Strange straight into his life. I wont say how their lives collide(literally) but both of their lives are taken a bit off course or more like put on the right course to each other. Both Grady's and Marina's back stories were explained beautifully. I loved how the Marina gained confidence in herself and stood up for herself especially against her so-called "family" Cora and Ashe. They can literally kick rocks. I typically yearn for more confrontation when it comes to our main characters being wronged by side characters but the way the author wrote it was perfect. Also, with Marnie's mom making an appearance later, how Grady reacted is exactly how I would react. Reading about how Marnie was willing to give her mother a second chance and believe that she can change, absolutely beautiful. Also, can we talk about the spice?! Girrrrrrrrrl! I want me a broody shadowman like Grady lol!!! Thank you, Jessica Sherry for writing such a wonderful book! I can't wait to read the rest of your work!

You know that feeling when your stomach twists and your heart picks up and you can’t help but smile because something just feels so right? That was me, start to finish, reading Every Chance After. (Well—except for their first meeting. That had me fully tense, uncomfortable, and already deeply concerned for their emotional well-being. But once it clicked between them? I was gone.)

Grady has a reputation—small-town grump, closed off, the guy who never lets anyone in. But the second Marnie enters his world, it’s like something cracks open. Watching him soften for her, in spite of himself, was one of the most satisfying emotional slow burns I’ve read in a long time. She’s bright and kind and sunshine through and through—but she’s not untouched by grief or pain. She just chooses joy anyway. And watching her learn that she doesn’t have to do everything alone? Devastating in the most beautiful way.

They’re a walking, talking case study in opposites attracting—but the kind that makes sense. Perfectly imperfect. The chemistry between them simmers slow, steady, and hot enough to start a wildfire. But this isn’t just a romance. It’s a story about trust, about healing, about learning to let someone else shoulder the weight with you.

The characters feel real in that “I could definitely run into them at the gas station” way. The family dynamics are rich and layered—messy but full of love. And the way the author handles trauma, grief, and emotional baggage? Gentle. Honest. So, so well done. Marnie’s growth hit me hard—she learns what family feels like and that she doesn’t always have to be the one holding everything together.

And the internal monologues? Forget about it. They’re raw, funny, heart-wrenching—everything I love. I laughed. I cried. I highlighted half the book.

Every Chance After is grumpy-sunshine perfection, filled with emotional depth, quiet moments that hit like thunder, and just enough chaos to remind you it’s real life. Five stars. Would absolutely let this man rescue me on the side of the road, even if he’s scowling the whole time (and maybe also the one who hit me)

I loved this book and couple so much, especially with their instant chemistry i could feel! This book was so good i read it in one sitting and i cannot wait to read more

If you love a good grumpy sunshine trope, definitely read this book!
I was in the mood for a nice feel good romance and I ma so glad that I came across this book.

There is loss, found family, love, growth, etc….

After a horrible accident resulting in a devastating loss, the two main characters go through many life changes that bring them together.

Loved everything about this ❤️\

I think there was a great story line and the right amount of tension between the main characters. It kept me intrigued the entire time. Very well written and I will definitely be recommending this author and book to others.

If you’re in the mood for a slow-burn romance that’s easy to sink into, that leans heavily into the comforting tropes of second chances and fated love - Every Chance After by Jessica Sherry might be just what you’re looking for. It delivers exactly what fans of the genre might expect: two emotionally bruised individuals finding their way back towards each other a story that unfolds gently, if predictably and wraps things up with a neat little bow.

This dual POV story follows Grady, your classic grumpy-but-lovable lead who’s been burned by love before. He’s rough around the edges but grows into someone you can genuinely root for, and his development is one of the highlights of the book. And it also followed Marina, your happy-go-lucky, cheerful people pleaser who begins the novel in the wrong relationship, who finds herself involved in an accident with Grady, which is how they two main characters meet.

The romance itself is sweet, if a bit on the predictable side. You can see where it’s going from early on, and while that’s not necessarily a bad thing, it does mean there aren’t many surprises along the way.

One thing I felt was missing was a real obstacle for the couple to overcome. The story flows so smoothly that it lacks some of the tension or emotional stakes that usually make a romance really shine. That said, the overall theme—everything happens for a reason—comes through nicely, and the ending, while a touch far-fetched, still leaves you with that warm, satisfied feeling.

Would I recommend it? Sure! It’s an easy, enjoyable read—perfect for a weekend on the couch or a lazy beach day. Just don’t expect major plot twists or deep emotional turmoil. This one’s all about the slow and steady journey to happily-ever-after.

Marnie is living a Cinderella life. She’s going to marry Ashe, the love of her life on her birthday which is also Valentine’s Day. She’s made a life of herself managing at the place Ashe’s family owns.

One wrong move has caused her life to be turned upside down and now she’s finding out the truth about how Ashe and his family really feels about Marnie.

I’ve never read any other books from this author but I felt for Marnie. I’m looking forward to reading more books from this author.

This book is on kindle unlimited and I recommend giving it a read.

Thanks netgalley and publisher for the chance to read this book for free in return for my honest opinion.

First of all, thank you very much for the ARC. I really liked this book. It was a super sweet and easy read. I really thought the characters complemented each other and brought out the best in each other. 3,5 stars!

Rating: 5 stars!

Love this love story! There was a lot of emphasis on it being an "age gap" relationship that felt over the top, and there was a lot of details that could have been trimmed out to reduce the page count down by 100 pages, but overall, I am obsessed! The broken girl from the broken home that just wants to make everyone else happy. The town grump that is shut out (his own doing) from his family and prefers to be the town recluse. What more could you want from this small town read?

Thank you NetGalley and Jessica Sherry for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Wow, did this one start out intense! Our two main characters meet at a car accident! I loved the premise of this book. Lots of processing trauma. But it was a slooow burn and a very slow-paced read.

Thank you to NetGalley and Jessica Sherry for an eARC of this book! This is my honest review.

Thank you Net Galley for providing me the opportunity to read this ARC for my honest review. Every Chance After is such a sweet romance about overcoming trauma and loss and finding family where you least expect it. Marnie’s character development throughout the story is inspiring and will have you rooting for her from the start! The found family aspect was my favorite part of the book!

I’ve never read a story in which the lovers meet as a result of a traumatic accident caused by one of them. It is refreshing to see a new take on a romance novel like this!

My only criticism was I found the MMC’s motivation to stay away from Marnie for so long was a bit tedious.

Every Chance After pulled me in right from the first chapter and kept me turning pages. Jessica Sherry does a wonderful job building characters with real depth and emotion. I especially loved Grady Tripp, the broody veterinarian with a soft side, who treats Marnie with so much care and tenderness. Their relationship felt authentic, comforting, and full of quiet strength.
What stood out most for me was how Marnie’s health challenges were portrayed. While her illness is different from my own, I found her experience incredibly relatable. The emotional toll, the sense of losing pieces of your life and even people you love along the way it was written with honesty and care. It’s rare to see that kind of raw, realistic portrayal of living with health issues, and it really resonated with me. The writing itself is beautiful. Jessica’s descriptive language brings scenes and emotions to life in a vivid, effortless way. The pacing kept me engaged, though I do wish the book had been a little shorter in parts. Still, it was heartfelt, immersive, and left an impact.

Jessica Sherry’s *Every Chance After* is a poignant, funny, and deeply moving story about love, grief, and the unexpected ways life rebuilds itself. At its heart, it’s the tender, slow-burn romance between Marnie and Grady—two people navigating loss in different ways but finding solace and hope in each other. Their love story unfolds naturally, with quiet moments and everyday interactions that make their connection feel authentic and earned.

Sherry tackles heavy themes—grief, miscarriage, and the meaning of family—with a deft, compassionate touch. One passage in particular, dealing with the loss of a wanted pregnancy, is heartbreaking yet beautifully rendered, conveying profound emotion with just a few carefully chosen details. The book doesn’t shy away from pain, but it never feels oppressive; instead, it dwells, as Marnie does, in possibility—the beauty of what *could be*.

What makes this novel truly special is its rich ensemble cast. Sherry populates Marnie and Grady’s world with vivid, memorable characters, each given their own moment to shine. (I’m personally crossing my fingers for a Gil/Ivy spin-off!) The small-town setting feels alive, full of warmth, humor, and the occasional absurdity of everyday life.

*Every Chance After* isn’t a light read, but it’s far from bleak. It’s a story that acknowledges sorrow while celebrating resilience, love, and the small, ordinary miracles that make life worth living. If you enjoy emotionally layered romances with depth, humor, and a cast of characters who feel like friends, this book is for you.

Thank you so much for this ARC! A great holiday read. Really enjoyed seeing Grady’s character development and the found family aspect to the story, where Marnie was accepted and appreciated as exactly who she is. Glad she ultimately ended up with the life and family she deserves.

Thank you Netgalley and Jessica Sherry for this ARC
This was good, I liked the way the story was when talking about the triggering topics which occur.
Usually I am not too much of a fan of the friends to lovers trope. But this was done wonderfully, perhaps cause it had the grumpy x sunshine trope in it as well, this book really did well. I will admit, I did at one point want Marnie to stand up for herself cause GIRL!!
Overall a 3.5⭐️

5 Stars

The way this story began blew me away by how devastating it was. What a tragic event of a catalyst to bring Grady and Marnie together. It felt like fate intervening in the most dramatic way. I was seated from the get go.

And the story just blossomed from there. It was a very sweet, heart-warming, slow burn of a romance where the building blocks really had to place just so. It was so satisfying to read - the characterisation of everyone, not just Grady and Marnie, felt so vibrant and real they basically burst off the page.

I loved the low key tie in to Jessica Sherry’s other books (that I admit I haven’t read) and the fun references (ie Brady-bunching their cats and dogs), as well as the very sad topics of infertility, mental health, and loneliness. But there was so much else here from found family to diversity and individualism to abuse. I adored the really subtle tidbit that their cars were each named ‘Beauty’ and ‘The Beast’ and that epilogue was just *chef’s kiss*

In short, even if it was maybe a tad long, I loved everything about this like a perfect cup of tea and a fuzzy on a cold, rainy day. Just wonderfully comforting.

A solid 4.5 stars.

This book was an adorable read. And I really enjoyed this a lot. The plot was simple, with no brainers.

The main theme of this book is particularly *Second Chance in Love*.

Both of them are broken hearts and not lying, but I cried when Ashe broke up with her. Anyway, Marina deserves far better than that monkey Ashe.

Marina Ann Strange, a simple girl with Sunshine🌞 Vibes always vibrant and kind, is ready to get married to the love of her life until everything changes.

Grady Macmillan Tripp, aka the Grouchy Tripp, an oldie (that's what he considers himself), considers himself responsible for everything that happened with Marina and decides to help her in every way possible, until slowly he falls in Love❤️.

But Grady is not Ready to accept his feelings for her because apparently he thinks he is too old for her and she deserves far better 🤧.

And omg, Grady's side of the story of his loss, I'm sobbing. Sobbing for the little Sara who didn't get to see the world.

But then after Grady's love confession and played for Marnie at the restaurant, omg it was so adorable. That man literally sang for her. Why do these book men set the standards? Why do now I've to suffer my whole life? Because I'm never getting one and so I'm never looking for one.
And then, the little sister, Matilda, is a cute little baby.

And then, omg, their little love talks. (Ikik I'm jumping from one topic to another.)

Their special game *Chess*. I love it I love every part of this book.

And omg the EPILOGUE, it was the bestttt.

This book was super amazing and I really appreciate for getting to read this amazing piece of art.

I would like to thank the Author, Jessica Sherry, and Netgalley for offering me this book to read in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, people. I'm so thankful that I got to read this book. It was really a great experience.

Review

This is the book I’ve been waiting for all year. It stole my heart, broke it, melted it, pieced it back together and then put it back in my chest good as new.

Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely adored these characters. Starting with the FMC, Marina “Marnie” Strange, she is a bottle of sunshine who’s always longed for family. She is kind and forgiving, but has sadness and grief that she buries down. She also has a talent and aspiration for rescuing things that need it. Marnie is so easily lovable and pulls on your heartstrings throughout the book. All you could do is root for her and long to see her happy ending. The MMC, Grady Tripp, is a closed off veterinarian who came back to his hometown after tragic circumstances. He is overworked and his families go-to guy, which is ultimately what leads to the events in the beginning of the book. Grady is frustrating in an understandable way. He tends to self sabotage instead of allowing himself to be happy. I couldn’t wait to see him grab on to his happy ending and hold it tight. This book also came with a wide assortment of lovable and grumpy side characters. They added a beautiful found family aspect that made this book even more enjoyable.

Romance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My heart is absolutely melted after reading Grady and Marina’s story. It is filled with sadness, happiness, heartbreak, and longing. Grady and Marnie meet under terrible circumstances that alters them forever. Grady struggles with guilt while Marnie deals with pain and heartbreak. Together they find themselves realizing that the worst day of their lives may not have been the worst after all. There were so many swoony moments between these characters that had me giggling and kicking my feet. The longing they experienced towards each other had my heart happy and aching at the same time. They may just be my favorite book couple of 2025.

Spice: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The saying “Good things come to those who wait.” absolutely applies to the spice in this book. Once you reached the scenes, they were so good.

Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If I can give you one piece of advice, go into this book blind. I had already read the description at least once, but had forgotten about it and it definitely worked in my favor. I had no idea what to expect with this book and had no idea how quickly the story would begin. The storyline was just beautiful.

Writing/Pacing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really enjoyed the writing and pacing. Everything moved at the perfect pace and the writing was detailed, but not overly so. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is my “Book of the Year” so far for 2025 and I’m shocked it doesn’t have more reads. Jessica Sherry created a beautiful love story and I’m so happy I read it.

Thank you to Jessica Sherry and NetGalley for allowing me to receive a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Marina is in an accident and her life changes drastically. Grady caused her accident but feels a connection past his guilt. The friendship that Marina and Grady share is sweet! This is definitely a slow burn, which I love! I especially loved all of the side characters. My only complaint is that it seemed like once they finally got together it was really rushed. Overall, I loved their connection and would recommend!