Second Time Sweeter by Beverly Jenkins

Started: 3/17/19
Finished: 4/11/19
Year: 2018
Pages: 285
Genre: Literature
Grade: B-
Reason for reading: review for LibraryThing.com
Blurb (from back cover): "With a reputation as a player, Malachi "Mal" July is now a recovering alcoholic who has made progress in redeeming himself in the yes of his family and the citizens of Henry Adams, Kansas. He's not only turned his diner into a profitable business; he also mentors the town's foster kids. And he's even staying true to one woman-Bernadine Brown.
"But a moment of pride makes Mal betray his friends and family, and lose Bernadine's trust and love. Can he win back her forgiveness?
"Meanwhile, homecoming weekend is fast approaching, and store owner Gary Clark is reunited with his high school sweetheart. The spark is still there, but is it too late for second chances?
"A little help from the good people of Henry Adams may give both Mal and Gary their best second chance at the happiness they missed the first time around..."
Opinion: This is the 9th book in the Henry Adams series....wish I had know that before I chose this book. For the most part, you can read this as a standalone but the ending leads you to having to read the next in the series. The romance between Gary and his high school sweetheart is endearing. The story of Mal trying to redeem himself is okay. There is also a subplot about another couple that just doesn't seem to fit.