LOLA GILLETTE AND THE SUMMER OF SECOND CHANCES
A Brave Girl Collection Story

by Kimberly Behre Kenna

Narrated by: Candace Fitzgerald

Production by: Kimberly Behre Kenna

A Heartfelt Journey Through Grief, Healing, and Magic

Thirteen-year-old Lola is carrying the weight of unbearable guilt after the tragic death of her seemingly perfect twin sister. Determined to honor her memory by completing their cherished Perfect Pairs Collection, Lola’s desperate attempt to finish the list lands her in trouble and sends her away for the summer to live with her eccentric, agoraphobic Uncle Milo in his decaying mansion along the Connecticut River.

What begins as punishment soon becomes a strange and unforgettable adventure filled with ghostly messages, mysterious discoveries, a wandering wolf, and unexpected magic. As Lola races to complete her lucky baker’s dozen of perfect pairs, she slowly discovers that healing cannot be collected or controlled—and that forgiveness, family, and connection may matter far more than perfection ever did. Warm, imaginative, and heartfelt, this middle-grade story beautifully explores grief, belonging, and the courage to move forward.

Author Kimberly Behre Kenna delivers a heartfelt and emotionally honest story that beautifully captures the uncertainty, grief, and self-doubt of a young teenager struggling to find acceptance and healing. Lola’s determination to care for others while quietly neglecting her own emotional needs is especially well written, giving the story a strong emotional core that feels genuine rather than overly dramatic. The dialogue flows naturally throughout the novel, accurately reflecting the characters’ emotions, insecurities, humor, and inner turmoil in a way that feels believable and relatable.

The character development is thoughtful and complete, allowing each character to grow naturally as the story unfolds. The pacing moves smoothly between moments of emotion, reflection, warmth, and healing, creating a story that feels both engaging and comforting at the same time. Even with its magical elements, the emotional heart of the novel remains grounded and sincere. As a storyteller, the author is spot on, crafting an entertaining and reflective story that quietly draws readers in and stays with them long after it ends.

Narrator Candance Fitzgerald delivers a strong and engaging performance that adds considerable emotional depth to the audiobook. She provides distinct and recognizable voices for each character, allowing conversations and interactions to flow naturally without confusion. Her vocal delivery captures the emotional weight of the story well, especially the uncertainty, frustration, vulnerability, and inner turmoil that come with being a teenager struggling to understand both grief and personal identity. The emotions consistently feel genuine rather than exaggerated, helping listeners connect more deeply with Lola’s journey.

Fitzgerald also maintains clear, energetic narration throughout the audiobook, keeping the pacing smooth and easy to follow. Her voice work remains consistent from beginning to end, and the emotional tone she brings to the characters enhances many of the novel’s quieter reflective moments as well as its more emotional scenes. Rather than simply reading the story, she helps bring the characters and their emotional struggles to life, making the audiobook a more immersive and meaningful listening experience overall.

Blending emotion, imagination, and thoughtful storytelling with a strong narrated performance, this audiobook delivers a touching and memorable journey about loss, forgiveness, and learning to finally let yourself heal.

There were no issues with the production or quality of this audiobook.

Disclaimer: This Audiobook was provided free of charge by the author, narrator, and/or publisher in exchange for a non-biased, honest review.