A Chance at Forever ~ Review

A Chance at Forever
Teaville Moral Society #3
By Melissa Jaegers

Mercy McClain isn't about to be fooled by a name change - she'd know Aaron Firebrook for the school bully he always was all those years ago. Bullies never change and if she has any say about it he'll never get a chance to teach the children of Teaville and leave them with the pain she still carries from his cruelty.

Aaron Firebrook is a changed man and he is determined to make amends for all the pains he caused in the past when he struck out at others in an attempt to make them as miserable as he found himself. His past in his opinion makes him a more than qualified candidate to deal with children who may be similar situations. Unfortunately, Mercy apparently remembers him though it has been more than 10 years since he has seen her. But Aaron is not to be dissuaded he has a desire to right some of the pain he has caused and he is starting in Teaville.

As Aaron awaits the school boards decision he takes a job at the local orphanage as a math tutor and the gardener. But with Marcy working at the orphanage as well he may soon find himself out of a job with her high distrust of him. But Nicholas Loew doesn't feel the past defines a person forever and he is determined to give Aaron the chance he desires.

As Aaron and Mercy work together - Mercy begins to realize that people can change and for the better. Sometimes all it takes is someone taking the time to show that they care, giving them a chance at a better tomorrow, security, and love.

This is a lovely conclusion to this series. It is interesting to see how the attitudes of the different residents of Teaville changed or stayed the same. As with anywhere, there are those who feel that their benevolence should come with strings attached - while others give freely of what they have. Second chances are what we all have need of because no one is perfect and this story beautifully presents this.

Those who love historical fiction will enjoy this latest offering from Melissa Jagears. Reading the previous books in the series is not necessary to enjoy this book but it does provide the backstory for several of the other characters so be sure to at least give them a read through later. This would make an excellent book club selection for those looking for a suggestion. Now get ready for a cozy curl-up in your favorite space and read away the hours - you'll be glad you did.

I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Bethany House with no expectations of a positive review ~ all opinions expressed are my own.

About the Book:
Determined to protect the children of Teaville, Kansas, from the bullying she experienced as a child, Mercy McClain finds fulfillment working at the local orphanage and serving on the school board. When Aaron Firebrook, the worst of her childhood bullies, petitions the board for a teaching position, she's dead set against his getting the job.

Aaron knows he deserves every bit of Mercy's mistrust, but he's returned to his hometown a changed man and is seeking the forgiveness of those he wronged. He doesn't expect Mercy to like him, but surely he can prove he now has the children's best interests at heart.

Will resentment and old wounds hold them back, or can Mercy and Aaron overcome the past in time to battle the threats against the future of the town's orphans?