Book Review: The Second Ending - Michelle Hoffman

 

“The Second Ending” is a debut novel by Michelle Hoffman. This is a book about second chances. There are two main characters - Prudence, a former child prodigy, with a rough upbringing who finally escapes thanks to commercial jingles, and Alexei, a current talented pianist who has claimed fame thanks to hosting and judging a TV reality series. There are a number of supporting characters, including an ex-husband, the current husband, parents, a person seeking revenge, and music teachers. I must admit to liking the two music teachers a lot - different styles, different personalities, but they each helped their students in ways they could relate. To me, the idea of this book was fantastic - but there were a number of subplots that took away from the main characters. In one case, Alexei’s parents added to his backstory, but Prudence’s ex-husband and potential exposer didn’t work as well as background or plot advancers. That might be an unpopular opinion, but while I enjoyed the remarks about music (you need to feel it not just play the notes), at times the storyline got bogged down in - well, being bogged down. At times this book game me “Where’d You Go, Bernadette” writing style vibes - something I didn’t really like. However, this book was different, so I do give Ms. Hoffman kudos for that. I could easily see this being a TV movie and being enjoyable. Plus, a huge shout-out for that cover - it’s eye catching, colorful, and gives an idea that the book is about music - and pianos. Four stars.