Top second-chance romance books for redemption & hope
Megan McKeough
Oh, the ones that got away. Maybe it was love at first sight at a coffee shop but we didn’t have the nerve to ask for their number. Maybe it was an old flame with bad timing.Sometimes, the universe works in mysterious ways to bring these people back around. As a sappy romantic myself, second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes. So I’ve compiled a list of the best second chance romance books for anyone looking for a fun, romantic, and hopeful read. Enjoy!In the Likely Event by Rebecca YarrosA sweeping romance of fate and chance encounters from the beloved romantasy phenom Yarros. Fable user Haley says, “this book was the perfect swoon read. A heartbreaking story with a lovely finish.”
Happy Place by Emily HenryForced proximity, fake relationships with exes, and a swoon-worthy summer cottage on the coast. Fable user Vatican Fuentes says, “why am I surprised that Emily Henry brought me to my knees? Her romances explore more than romantic relationships in such a beautiful and deeply sensitive way.”Persuasion by Jane AustenAn epic exploration of love that endures societal pressures and class differences set amid the Napoleonic Wars. Fable user Analisa says, “the characters are memorable, and Anne Elliot is especially wonderful. The writing is characteristically fun, witty, and beautiful.”Much Ado About Nada by Uzma JalaluddinA hilarious modern-day ‘Persuasion’ set at a Muslim conference in Toronto. Fable reader Namita says, “I loved the unique setting of a Muslim conference and overall thought it was a fun read that captured the spirit of Austen’s original work.”Forget Me Not by Julie SotoA grumpy/sunshine rom-com about a wedding planner and a florist who must put their history aside for the opportunity of a lifetime. Fable user Katie P. says, “Second chance romance isn't usually my thing, but it worked here.”Ex Appeal by Cathy YardleyHigh school exes—a hacker and a fixer—reunite to solve a $10 million problem that will mutually benefit their careers, and maybe their personal lives. Fable user Cas says, “really really liked it. [Yardley] is funny and savvy and the characters are real and adorable and hot.”This Summer Will Be Different by Carley FortuneA secretive seasonal vacation fling on Prince Edward Island becomes something deeper when the two must join forces to support their friend/sister. Fable user shannon “I really enjoyed this. The setting was described beautifully and I LOVED Felix’s character. definitely going to read more of her books :)”Done and Dusted by Lyla SageAn injured horseback rider is forced to return to her small town in Wyoming, where she is reacquainted with her best friend’s brother (and the town bad boy) in a swoony enemies-to-lovers tale.Fable user Jessica.Wagoner says, “this book got me into reading and will forever hold a special place in my heart ❤️”Seven Days in June by Tia WilliamsAn erotica author and literary darling cross paths at an industry event, rekindling old flames in a multi-layered romance. Fable user Lo says, “my heart feels so full after reading a Tia Williams book.”Say You Still Love Me by K.A. TuckerAn ambitious executive reconnects with her first love who happens to be the new bodyguard at her office in a steamy office romance. Fable user Brittany says, “I think Tucker does an amazing job weaving the past and present story lines together and I found myself not wanting one timeline to end.”An Unholy Affair by Evie AlexanderA witty and steamy rom-com about a small-town woman ready to put down roots and a male escort looking for anything but. Fable user BookishMya says, “You had me at 'The Princess Bride' references. I loved the easy rapport between Eveline & Jack. The instant chemistry was fabulous.The Bromance Book Club by Lyssa Kay AdamsA Major League baseball player leans on a secret romance book club, made up of Nashville’s elite men, to save his floundering marriage. Fable user Camille says, “This was fun, flirty, fresh, and very entertaining.”The Co-op by Tarah DeWittOnce briefly high school lovers, LaRynn and Deacon are reunited a decade later when their grandmothers leave them shared ownership of a run-down building in Santa Cruz. Fable user cindyyevans says, “this book was so cute and such a satisfying second-chance romance. I’m always a sucker for that trope, and this one really delivered.”After I Do by Taylor Jenkins ReidA struggling married couple takes a one-year trial separation in a painfully honest novel on fighting through the mundanity of marriage. Fable user Mandaslaybooks says, “This book was so good! Excellent perspective on marriage & communication within marriage.”
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