Twice Upon a Wedding    by Jean Stone Order:  USA  Can Bantam, 2005 (2005) Paperback, e-Book      Reviewed by Rashmi Srinivas In the first book of this series, Once Upon a Bride, Jean Stone introduced readers to Lily, Sarah, Jo and Elaine. Once college roommates, they're now partners in Second Chances, a wedding planners business for second-time brides. With one wedding over, the ladies are in full gear preparing their first big break, the renewal of wedding vows between a media mogul and his lovely wife. Little do they know that it's all due to the manipulations of their gay secretary Andrew Kennedy, who's in fact not gay at all, and has infiltrated their little organization to get material for his now-famous Real Women column. There's plenty of trouble brewing in paradise as Andrew's growing feelings for Jo turn into frustration in face of her budding relationship with a pilot, even as Elaine's courageous decision to make her life over draws increasing opposition from her family. Sarah's serenity becomes shaky as her personal life goes to hell, while Lily flits through life ignoring her precarious financial state. When past betrayals meet with present secrets, a shakeup of seismic proportions is inevitable. The question is will the wedding planners, their fledgling business, and their new relationships survive it? This second in the Second Chances series is another heartwarming tale. The four ladies inspire readers with their courage, optimism and friendship. While this is a predominantly female story, Stone also presents a male perspective through not-so-gay secretary Andrew. Whether it ultimately boils down to a battle of the sexes is something readers will have to discover on their own. Second chances in lives, careers, weddings, and relationships is a concept as uplifting as it is elusive. But Stone manages to capture the essence of it, and this is the secret of her endearing series. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Romance books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews