Sarah Hogle 's magic is bright and full in this new novel. I was so happy reading it. She's able to create these genuinely over the top feelings and moments that still strike you as sincere and real.

This is second chance but so much more than that. I loved the town, I loved the shop, her friends and sisters. Romina's backstory and desires are not often featured in contemporary romance, but it worked so so well.

Alex was lovely and kind. Very swoony and delightful moments from this couple, although if there's any weakness it is indeed that Romina's more known; her life is more central.

I may come back to review with more coherence but for now I can best sum up my review by saying this filled me with bubbles of light and joy and made me believe in them.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the free copy of this book, which has not affected my review. ( )

Title: Old Flames and New Fortunes
Author: Sarah Hogle
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Four
Review:
"Old Flames and New Fortunes" by Sarah Hogle

My Thoughts:
If you are into 'fake dating, second chance romance, scavenger hunts, small town, florists and weddings', family dynamics, and sister's relationships, then you have come to the proper novel to get a little bit of it all from this story. Also, if you are into the magic and fantasy this author brings to the story, you will also be in for a delightful read. The part I enjoyed best was the various descriptions of the flower arrangements presented since I love flowers. This novel may be riveting if you want an easy romantic second chance read.

Thank you to Net Galley and Putnam for gifting me a copy of OLD FLAMES AND NEW FORTUNES in exchange for my honest review. ( )

Romina and Alex were once high school sweethearts. They were torn apart, not surprisingly, through miscommunication and their own immaturity. They hadn’t seen each other in years and now Alex is back in town for his mother’s wedding. Romina is determined to avoid Alex and the heartbreak he’s sure to cause her.

Words cannot express how much I love, how much I feel when reading Hogle’s books. The magic in this one was almost peripheral which was fine with me. The sweetness of watching Romina and Alex find each other again was everything. The very beginning of the story threw me for a loop, though, the writing felt a little chaotic, almost frenetic. Looking back, I realize this just showcased the supporting characters’ personalities and Romina’s state of mind at the time.

Once Alex came on scene, things seemed to calm (much like he calmed Romina), and I was hooked. More so as each chapter unfolded to a very satisfying, very romantic end. I don't think anyone can write a romantic hero or invoke a romantic atmosphere better than Sarah Hogle.

Thank you to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Putnam, G.P. Putnam's Sons for this complimentary ARC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. ( )