Second Chances Series by Melody Carlson

Cassanda Maxwell has had a life filled with pain. Her mother died too young, her father is an abusive alcoholic, and she’s a misfit everywhere she goes. After being shuttled between various foster homes, Cass struggles to find her identity and finds herself caught up with Scott Jones (aka “Sky”) and his group of friends who start a Jesus commune in California. But before long, the group is more interested in pot and sex than they are spiritual growth... moreCassanda Maxwell has had a life filled with pain. Her mother died too young, her father is an abusive alcoholic, and she’s a misfit everywhere she goes. After being shuttled between various foster homes, Cass struggles to find her identity and finds herself caught up with Scott Jones (aka “Sky”) and his group of friends who start a Jesus commune in California. But before long, the group is more interested in pot and sex than they are spiritual growth. Once again, Cass finds herself trapped in unhappiness—and she longs for escape. Will Cass find the life and love she craves on a California commune—with the charismatic Sky and his followers? Or can she fulfill her dreams—and find her real future—with her childhood friend Joey? less

Dora Chase is an eighty-year-old widow whose family finds her frustratingly independent. Her son no longer trusts her judgment and constantly pressures her to sell her rural home and rundown farm to a huge computer firm. When a young stranger shows up, Dora is suspicious, but before long Armando Garcia wins her trust. And Armando supports Dora's independence, causing the conflict within her bickering family to escalate. Dora's son abhors Armando's interference and is determined to send him away... moreDora Chase is an eighty-year-old widow whose family finds her frustratingly independent. Her son no longer trusts her judgment and constantly pressures her to sell her rural home and rundown farm to a huge computer firm. When a young stranger shows up, Dora is suspicious, but before long Armando Garcia wins her trust. And Armando supports Dora's independence, causing the conflict within her bickering family to escalate. Dora's son abhors Armando's interference and is determined to send him away. He suspects the charming young man is running from something or someone. And he's not far from wrong. The unlikely friendship that grows between the elderly widow and the young man with a past leads them both on a journey toward hope, healing and forgiveness. less