Second Chances: A North and South Story

by Diana K. Cooper

John Thornton appears to be a successful self-made man, and a leading figure in Victorian England’s manufacturing town of Milton. But his outward facade hides the reality. The only beacon of light in his life is when he attends weekly lessons with Richard Hale, and has the chance to catch a glimpse of his tutor’s daughter, Margaret. Despite having previously proposed and been refused, John’s love for Margaret is steadfast. An unexpected event allows John to help her when no one else will, bringing them closer, and making Margaret question her earlier perception of the brooding mill master. Margaret’s life is no less troubled. She longs for a measure of control, having been sent unwillingly to live with relatives for much of her youth, and the necessity of conforming with their wishes. But when tragedy strikes, she once again must bend to the will of her family. A deception borne from greed stands in the way of John and Margaret’s second chance, and John will need help from friends and family if he is to uncover the truth. No one has ever fought for Margaret – until now.

Genres: Historical Romance

293 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 7, 2023

Reviews

[Colleen Dammeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely story!

This is a lovely story with a driving plot and some fun twists. The dog was a wonderful way to bring the couple together. A very charming well written tale.

[Anne Fuchs-Chesney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very enjoyable read

Loved the addition of Bertie & how it brought them together. Would have liked a bit of post wedding story.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed. Loved the use of the puppy to develop Margaret & John's friendship. Story got bogged down in about the last third. That part could have also used more romantic interactions.

[Rebecca Schröder · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a gem! It captivated me from start to finish. Diana's writing is filled with so much thoughtful detail, so much care. The plot, the characters and the atmosphere are all beautifully crafted. While I expected a great love story, I got a truly accomplished tale of friendship, love, suspense, sorrow, humor and the totally irresistible charm of Bertie. I cannot wait to read this a second time in paperback format. It is the kind of book that becomes a dear companion while you read it and that you are loath to let go once you have turned the last page.

[Autumn · Rating 5 out of 5]

North and South + Puppy Love!

A must read for North and South fans, this is a lovely alternative love story for John and Margaret. The addition of an adorable puppy may help bring our lovers together, but misunderstandings (and a jealous villain) are working to keep them apart!

Well written and engaging, it’s a very sweet and romantic book for those of us who just can’t get enough of our beloved couple. John, Margaret, and a cute dog - what more could you ask for?

[Faustine]

DNF. Not my kind of writing style. I like puppies but not in North and South, and I didn’t care about the dying dog. RIP, book.

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

I absolutely loved this book! It was so well done, drawing on the story of Elizabeth Gaskell's imagination and making it its own. I loved it more and more each chapter.

[Michelle Englefield · Rating 5 out of 5]

okay, the dog. Seriously! The dog. The best character in the entire book. I also think I'm partial to this kind of dog in the first place.

My friend has managed to write a unique story about her [uh, our] favourite characters from North and South, a book written by Elizabeth Gaskell, and put her own spin on it. I think she did it amazingly well. I was definitely surprised in places; it had a sense of suspense...but I can't tell you because it would be a spoiler.

Diana gives a run-down of the premise of the original book throughout the story, so that we all know what was going on, since she continues one from a point in the original novel. The main points do happen along the way, but in different circumstances.

I am glad that I read the physical book, because it gave a whole new feeling to it being read. It has a perfect Happy Ever After, and we can all give a satisfied and contented sigh after we finish.

[Roxana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a charming, lovely read! I would highly recommend it for any fans of the original, both book and series. It had a very imaginative premise which allowed the author to explore an alternative pathway leading to the HEA. While this is obviously not by Mrs. Gaskell, the characters feel true to themselves and there aren't any anachronisms. Well written and well researched.
I will probably read it again; it has that feel-good factor.