Second ACT - by Danielle Steel (Paperback)

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.