Second Act by Danielle Steel

 Second Act

Book Summary

In this gripping novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Danielle Steel, a top Hollywood executive seeks a new beginning when his career takes an unplanned turn.

As the head of a prestigious movie studio for nearly two decades, Andy Westfield has had every conceivable professional luxury: a stunning office on the forty-fourth floor, a loyal assistant who can all but read his mind, access to a private jet and company cars. The son of Hollywood royalty, Andy always put his career before his marriage, and now, besides his daughter and young grandchildren, it’s the only thing he truly loves.

But then Andy’s world is upended. The studio is sold, and the buyer’s son demands the top seat. Out of a job and humiliated, Andy spirals. When his head clears, he decides to get as far away from Los Angeles as possible until the dust settles and he can find a new way forward.

Andy signs a six-month rental agreement for a luxurious home in a tiny, forgotten coastal town two hours from London. When he arrives, he hires a local woman to help get his affairs in order. A former journalist, Violet Smith is at a crossroads as well, and this temporary job is exactly what she needs to tide her over. But when Violet leaves the manuscript of her unfinished novel behind after work one day, Andy lets his curiosity get the best of him and is captivated by a story that begs to be adapted for the big screen. Could this be the miracle they’ve both been looking for? 

In Second Act, Danielle Steel presents a heartening tale of how challenging times give way to opportunities and an original outline does not always contain the perfect ending.

My Thoughts

Second Act by Danielle Steel provides an escape from reality for a couple of hours.  I found the story to be easy to read.  The characters are developed.  I liked that there were not too many.  I was able to envision the characters from the author’s vivid descriptions.  The glowing depictions also allowed me to visualize the settings including Andy’s California home and the unique house he rents in England.  It is a story about staring over and self-discovery.  Sometimes it takes hitting bottom for someone to realize that family is more important than power or money.  At one time, if a person lost their job and they were in their 50s, it would be challenging for them to get another position.  Now, you can begin a new chapter of your life by going to college or changing career paths.  I could understand Andy struggling after losing his position especially since he did nothing to warrant the loss of it.  The author captured the feelings of humiliation, lack of self-worth, and anger.  

While I enjoyed reading Second Act, I was not a fan of the repetition.  I really do not need the same details repeated ten times (Andy not being around for his daughter while she was growing up, how Andy got his position at the studio, Alana was only with Andy to help her career).  The plot twists can be anticipated (such as Andy being fired).  There is mild foul language along with the consumption of copious quantities of alcohol.  I can always count on Danielle Steel to provide a relaxing read (which is what I needed).  Second Act is a touching tale with a surprise termination, a UK hideaway, a pretty assistant, a captivating tale, career change, and a singular romance.  

Second Act is available from Amazon*.  Danielle Steel has Upside Down coming out January 2, 2024.  You can find the author's other novels here.  Thank you for dropping by today.  I will be back on Tuesday, October 10 with Sugar Plum Poisoned by Jenn McKinlay.  It is the fifteenth A Cupcake Bakery Mystery. My clumsiness has me injury once again.  I ended up tripping over a rope on one of the inflatables in my front yard.  I ended up spraining my right foot (the big toe swelled to twice its size).  Just as it was beginning to heal, I went down the stairs to outside and tripped over a package on the bottom step (I did not see it).  I will be spending the weekend with my foot propped up (it will give me a chance to catch up on my reading).   I hope that you have a delightful weekend.  Take care and Happy Reading!

Kris

The Avid Reader 

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