Second Chances by P D Cacek

Release: November 10, 2020
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Flame Tree Press
Source: Random Things Tours
Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N.

The sequel to Second Lives, praised by Publishers Weekly as “a rewarding exploration of the emotions felt both by those confronting their own deaths and those left behind to mourn.”

It has been four years since the first Travelers came back, and in that time, their numbers have grown. There is still no explanation for their existence, but for the most part, they have been accepted into society and given special protection under the law. However, some see these Imposters as a threat to both their lives and their faith. The True Borns believe in “One Body, One Soul” and will do everything and anything in their power to put an end to the Travelers.

FLAME TREE PRESS is the new fiction imprint of Flame Tree Publishing. Launched in 2018, the list brings together brilliant new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices.

About the Author:

The winner of both a Bram Stoker and World Fantasy Award, P.D. Cacek has published over a hundred short stories and five novels.

Cacek holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Creative Writing Option from the University of California at Long Beach and is a certified Wilderness Survival Instructor.

A past Guest Lecturer at the Odyssey Writing Camp, Cacek’s horror, fantasy and
science fiction stories have appeared in numerous magazines and anthologies since going professional in the late ’90s.

A native Westerner, Cacek divides her time between Arvada, CO, and Phoenixville, PA.
When not writing, she can often be found with THE PATIENT CREATURES, a group of
costumed storytellers

Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Second Chances Review:

I loved this book! The storyline is unlike anything I have read, and I did not want it to end.

The author immediately draws you in with various characters with different storylines and how they connect. Jessie is my favorite character. As a trans person who fights against the Travelers with her family, I loved seeing her conflicting emotions in a difficult situation. At times I got angry at her for playing with her life and risking it just for Carly. But at times, I also felt terrible for whatever she goes through. Moreover, I love her conversations with Abigail. Both of them share a special bond, and it was interesting to see how they connected.

Simultaneously, the author also keeps the story fresh by narrating the tale from different perspectives. Millie is also fascinating as she Travels across centuries. However, I wish she was more prominent, as she only appears sporadically. Similarly, Eva and Curtis were all right. While I wouldn’t say I liked their storyline initially, I enjoyed it once Jessie came into the picture. At the same time, Jess is also impressive as the potential ‘villain’ fighting against the Travelers.

However, there were times when I felt the story was slow and repetitious in the beginning. But I still give this book five stars only because of its concept. It surpassed my expectations and turned out to be a very memorable read. I loved the word of the Travelers and the idea of how they survive. Overall, “Second Chances” is an excellent book if you are in the mood for an eerie, fascinating tale of death and resurrection.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.