Quick Synopsis

A trans man returns to his Florida hometown for Christmas after his career goes up in flames, only to cross paths with his high school ex in this charming rom-com about family and second chances from the author of the “delectable” (Time) Chef’s Kiss.

Publisher’s Synopsis

Eli Ward hasn’t been back to his suffocating hometown of New Port Stephen, Florida, in ages. Post-transition and sober, he’s a completely different person from the one who left years ago. But when a scandal threatens his career as a TV writer and comedian, he has no choice but to return home for the holidays. He can only hope he’ll survive his boisterous, loving, but often misguided family and hide the fact that his dream of comedy success has become a nightmare.

Just when he thinks this trip couldn’t get any worse, Eli bumps into his high school ex, Nick Wu, who’s somehow hotter than ever. Divorced and in his forties, Nick’s world revolves around his father, his daughter, and his job. But even a busy life can’t keep him from being intrigued by the reappearance of Eli.

Against the backdrop of one weird Floridian Christmas, the two must decide whether to leave the past in the past…or move on together.

Book Review

⁣Second Chances in New Port Stephen is a holiday romance novel in which a transman, Eli, returns to his parent’s house in Florida for the holidays. After being away for a decade, Eli is forced to visit his hometown after losing his job and apartment. Worse yet, Eli runs into his childhood best friend and teenage boyfriend. Will they reconnect as friends or will sparks fly?

Generally, I am not interested in second chance romances, but I wanted to give Second Chances in New Port Stephen a try since I have not previously read a romance with a transgender character. And I am so glad that this book was my first! ⁣

Second Chances in New Port Stephens is the holiday romance novel I have been looking for this season. Reading this book filled me with warmth and joy… and even a bit more belief in humanity. It is an adorable, feel-good story with diverse characters.

Before I start discussing the romance or characters, I want to highlight that this novel covers Eli’s first post-transition visit to his childhood home. With that, a lot of feelings arise for the character. His parents are supportive and try their best; however, they are a bit naïve in all the ways that what they say, do, and display effects Eli. Once Eli finally communicates this to them, they try their best to understand and do right by their trans child⁣. This part of the story healed a part of me I did not know I needed healing. I start tearing up just thinking about it.

The plot of Second Chances in New Port Stephen is nuanced and interesting. I loved that T.J. Alexander explored the character’s feelings and allowed the romance to build. In addition, any miscommunication that does occur is brief and not irritating. Better yet, the plot does not rely on upon some big misunderstanding.

My only qualm about the novel is Eli is a bit whiny and immature at times. He does seem to mature over the course of the story and see others beyond himself. Regardless, I still immensely enjoyed this warm hug of a novel.

Overall, Second Chances at New Port Stephen is a a powerful, hopeful story of acceptance and love. I recommend this novel for absolutely everyone but especially anyone questioning their sexuality, parents of queer children, Florida natives (who have settled elsewhere), & those who identify as LGBTQIA+.⁣

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