Second Song

Second Chance School #1

by Con Riley

Page-turning heat and hurt-comfort start on a Cornish cliffside and end at a school where not only students heal from past pain.

Do first times count if you forget them?

Rowan: I once lost a national singing contest. My consolation prize? A night I can’t remember and the tattoo on my bare bottom going viral. Six years later, I’m ready to rise like a phoenix from those shameful public ashes even if my singing days are over. Training as a music teacher is the second chance I need to prove I can be trusted to help children with their own trauma.

I can’t get distracted by falling for the wounded hero who saved me on my first day in Cornwall.


Liam: Blast damage forced me to leave the Army, and guilt keeps me running from those I hurt in the process. I don't intend to fall for a pretty stranger trapped on a cliffside, but something about Rowan makes me crave more than our one heated night together, especially when he responds like I’m the first man to ever touch his heart or body.

If he wants a second chance here in Cornwall, I’ll stay and fight until he gets one.


Featuring a musician too bruised to sing and the soldier ready to battle for him, Second Song is first in the Second Chance School series. Expect found family, a spectrum of diverse characters, and an HEA fit for angsty heroes.


This spin-off shared-world series aligns with the much-adored Learning to Love series. No prior knowledge is necessary to enjoy this standalone full-length novel.


(C/W and trauma-related T/W are located on the copyright page).

Genres: Romance, M M Romance, Contemporary, Military Fiction, LGBT, Found Family, Queer

380 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 8, 2024

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

This book made my heart so happy 😍

My first Con Riley book and it was ridiculously good.

Teaching children with complex needs is very close to my heart as that's my daily life with my little one. I absolutely loved how everyone works to find ways for these children to succeed when mainstream places would have written them off. Charles's character has actually given me a lot of inspiration into how I can improve my own teaching methods, and the way Rowan uses music therapy really interested me.

Rowan and Liam are absolutely adorable together and seeing them overcome their struggles was really rewarding.

There was honestly so much I loved about this book that I could probably write an essay 😂

My only reason for not giving 5 stars is that I would have liked to have seen more with Liam and reuniting with his friends. The end felt a little rushed in that area which made it feel a little unbalanced because we get Rowan's full story but it did feel like part of Liam's was missing.

*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review

[BookSafety Reviews · Rating 2 out of 5]

Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.

I’ve felt the earth move under my feet more than a few times. Felt the crump of buildings collapsing. Been shaken by shells that split soul from soul like earthquakes. Rowan’s song? It’s seismic.

I’m not quite sure how to rate and review this one. I enjoyed large parts of it and I thought the characters were sweet and interesting. The writing was certainly a bit different too, which I sometimes enjoyed and sometimes didn’t. The book did feel more like a story about Rowan’s life in general and his life as a teacher, and not at all a romance. The MCs are sleeping together through most of the book but they never actually talk about anything. So much of the focus is on processing trauma and helping the students with theirs. The book dragged a lot in those moments with long scenes talking with other teachers (SO many of them), as well as a lot of repeated internal dialogue.

As I mentioned, I did like both MCs, but there wasn’t actually a lot going on there except for sexual chemistry. It felt like they never had a proper conversation, not one that wasn’t vague at least. There’s only so much relationship development I can infer from stolen glances and almost smiles. They get their happy ending but I wasn’t awfully invested in seeing it.

It won’t be fully dark for hours yet, so I don’t know why there are so many stars in his eyes.


⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️

⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
British setting
Second chance
Former military
Ex boy band member
Size difference
Fast burn - physically
Slow burn - emotionally
Hookup to more
Casual sex
Mild hurt/comfort

⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mention of MC photographed nude against will (past)
Nude photo of MC published (past)
Mention of MC being sexually harassed (past)
References to military combat (past)
Medical discharge from military (past)
Brief mentions of suicidal ideation
Mentions of death of parent (past)
Details of children being displaced because of conflict/war
Details of bereavement
PTSD symptoms
Explicit sexual content
Vague mentions of MC being drugged (past, off page, no details)
MC blackmailed (past)

⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Contemporary romance
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 23 and ‘almost thirty’
Series: Interconnected standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 380
Happy ending: Yes


He yanks at my belt and almost gives himself a black eye. Shoves up my shirt, and almost brains me, which is no reason for him to cackle, but here we are, both in a tangle, both laughing and kissing. His mouth is molten, and I still don’t know how I got this lucky or how any of this started.



You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing. You get to pick one thing to take along before you're stranded on a deserted island. You are planning for this abandonment...just go with it. You don't know how long you'll be there, it could be months, it could be years. What do you take? Easy pick for me, I'm taking my Kindle stuffed with Con Riley's stories. I could read them from cover to cover for the rest of my days. Can I tell you a little secret? I keep expecting to hit a wall. For my 5-star streak to come to an end. It happens to the best author/reader combos. But! *whispers* Not for Con and me. The 5-star reads keep coming. I'll share another secret. I don't read Con's blurbs. I'm sure they are great, but I don't need them. I stare at the cover and memorize the weight of the gaze staring back at me. I like diving in without knowing what might be in the waters below. And this time? I found myself in familiar waters with a couple of fresh faces.

Who are these new faces? We have Rowan and Liam, an unlikely and imperfect couple bound to steal your heart. First, we have Rowan, a talented musician, carrying a heavy burden from a reality show experience that shattered his world. Next, we have Liam, a former sapper, grappling with the challenges of PTSD and civilian life. Both are desperate for a second chance and don't realize the biggest obstacle standing in their way is...themselves. A lost lamb brings them together in a daring rescue. Rowan is an accident waiting to happen. As luck would have it, Liam, drawn to the rhythm of the ocean, catches a wave below the quiet shores of the cliff Rowan finds himself teetering on. Fate isn't done with them yet. The school Rowan is interviewing at needs a specialized demolition man. Fortunately for Glynn Harber, Liam was a multi-skilled soldier and combat engineer. Keyword...was. Can he trust himself and his training to get the job done?

Rowan is lost, just like his lamb. Or more precisely, he's lost his voice. He can't sing anymore. Music feeds his heart and soul but he's been slowly starving himself. He doesn't allow himself to want much in life, but suddenly he's presented with his dream job and man. Glynn Harber is a magical place and he's never felt like he fit in, until now. He is willing to do hard things and prove to the school's headmaster that he's worthy of the job. But can he face the past haunting him? Can he confront the dark holes lurking behind him and embrace his music again? Maybe with a soldier at his side, these battles can be conquered. And what if Row can help soothe his soldier's wounds? Maybe, just maybe, Liam can find peace amidst the echoes of war.

Despite their contrasting backgrounds, a musician suppressing his music and a soldier yearning for silence, an undeniable connection blossoms between them. As they navigate their struggles, they find comfort and acceptance in each other. The salty air, the crumbling walls, and the secrets they reveal become the foundation for their fierce love. Their chemistry vibrates through the pages. There is an intensity to their passion and I never questioned their stability. Neither man is in the market for romance, but Riley didn't get that memo. Rowan is ashamed of his past and insecure about his future. Another teacher, Charles, swiftly pulls him into his world of play and glitter. He feels useful and connects with a student over music. For the first time in six years, his vocal cords itch to be used. He wants to sing. And as for Liam? He remembers what it's like to be part of a team. He never imagined he would like to go home again, he's been running for so long. But he admits he's tired and misses his brothers in arms. He may not carry a weapon, but he'll always be a soldier. And this soldier wants to take his lover home.


Beware of: This second song is a leap of faith and it's swoony, sexy, and...oh-so-sweet. Cornwall, Devon, Glynn Harber...it's all stunning. Love is a powerful force...but so is forgiveness. Oh, and plan on falling in love with some amazing kiddos too.


This book is for: This heartwarming tale tells the story of two men finding love, healing, and forgiveness in the rugged beauty of Cornwall. If you're no stranger to Riley's work, expect to be surrounded by familiars. Come for the show, stay for the cast. See you at the next one!

[alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

*squeals* i love this book universe and am so happy the author decided to march on with a spin-off series

[Ellison · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was truly excited for this book, and then monumentally disappointed. I wanted to love it. I know I'm in the minority, but hear me out. I've enjoyed or just about loved every Con Riley book I've read. I usually adore her writing, her MCs, I've never found her sex scenes eyeroll-worthy and/or boring, and her settings have always felt like cozy magic.

But there is such a thing as too much magic. And glitter.

Around 30% into Second Song I was desperately trying to stay in denial about this book. At 50% I wanted to throw my phone and yet keep going to see if it got better. So, here's the problem:

You know how sometimes an author can fall a bit too in love with the universe they created? That's Con Riley.

It came as an epiphany at 56%. I remembered why I began Austin in the Learning to Love series, then put it on pause and removed it from my "currently reading" list: Too much focus on Glynn Harbor and EVERYTHING in it. This is also why I hadn't yet queued Heppel Ever After.

And this is something I remember noticing while reading the Learning to Love series. There was just more and more and more about the side characters, the school, the children, and these frankly unrealistic heart-to-hearts that became ever more sappy and repetitive. Sol didn't have the same feel, but Luke did, and then when I started Austin it was too much and I decided to put it down for a while and read something else.

But on to Second Song: I don't know why Liam was even given a POV--his chapters are few and short (and most are at the school with school-y things going on), so why even bother? And in those chapters we really don't get to know much about him or how he feels. We learn nothing more than what we already knew from reading the summary.

I'm not doing a deep dive back in there to do the math, but I'd say well over half this book is about a school and the kids ... and ugh, the kids. I started to truly just hate them. We spend pages and pages of Charles drawing in sand or getting glitter on things or talking to Rowan like he's basically one of the emotionally damaged or special needs children who attend the school. No exaggeration. The chapters where Rowan is just doing "tug at your heartstrings" school-y things are generally longer than any chapters where he interacts with Liam.

And I know, the whole book doesn't have to be just the MCs, there are reasons for scenes that aren't, like character growth and such, but this was not that.

During intimate scenes there is even comparing and contrasting about Luke or Charles saying this or that or a kid overcoming some hurdle. She couldn't even keep these intrusions out of sex scenes or the sparse alone time between Rowan and Liam.

And I am not one of those M/M romance readers who gets bored if there isn't constant sex. In fact, too much sex in a book usually bores me and makes me skim. So, no, I am NOT coming from the "this wasn't spicy enough" side. Not at all.

Then when there is potential for some nice quiet alone time with just the MCs (not even sex) just them together to show their growing? relationship, it all ends because "omg Teo might be angry drumming again" or one of them has to go do some work or a bell is going to ring. There's always some excuse to end their page time. Then a week goes by and they get another few pages usually with a bunch of side characters around.

The characters, the kids, the universe are like intrusive thoughts sprinkled all over like the peas from a broken pea shaker constructed from a Pringles can (yes, pea shakers are compared and contrasted--call me inspired).

I can even get past the "everyone is gay" thing (it's like that in so many books I'm almost numb to it by now). And I can even look past the heteronormative "every (or almost every) gay couple has kids" even though this is so unrealistic given actual real world statistics.

Here's the real sad part; there are so many potentially lovely details about the MCs together that are summarized later in a few words. Things that could have made beautiful scenes if they had actually been written out. Instead, it's pages upon pages of drawing in the sand, pea shakers, drumsticks, glitter, kids walking on a bridge, the outdoor classroom, Hadi's PTSD, etc ad nauseam.

And just to top it all off, there's a predictable revelation toward the end about Rowan's past that I'm not even going to get into because I don't feel like writing an essay within this essay. All I'll say is that his expectations of how other characters would perceive him in relation to it made zero sense.

During my progress update last night I wondered whether I was reading a book about a school, a self help book, or a romance novel.

It's a self help book about a school with a couple dudes fucking once in a while. That's what it is.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This had all the things I love in a book but it left me feeling meh. The first thing is that this is all about Rowans backstory when he is on the singing contest that Ed and Pasha were on in TrueBrit, a book I enjoyed by this author. I couldn’t recall him at all though and I went back and skimmed the whole book and he doesn’t actually appear, and his name (as well as the alias he was given on the show) doesn’t appear at all when I searched it on my kindle. This felt like a major plot hole because his time on the show is really the main storyline but he didn’t really exist in the book about the show. In this book we meet Ed and Pasha again and there is drama about what happened on the show and they mention their interactions with him but it’s weird we never actually met him in that back.

Liam’s POV’s were kind of wasted, I felt like he didn’t have a strong character, his identify was mostly his tinnitus/being a solider and the only story he really had felt cut short at the end.

There is a lot of detail about the school with a big range of students and a lot of time and words dedicated not to the couple. There is many previous couples from the last series - Charles, Luke, Hugo, Dom, Nathan, Austin and Sol all have varying mentions/appearances. Ed and Pasha appear. Maybe some others? And the kids, there is a lot of kids! - Maisie, Tor, Hadi, Jamilla, Teo, Cameron and mentions of Charles multiple babies. There is a lot of time with the kids on page. This was nice and the school sounds really amazing with its trauma informed care focus but I felt a bit swamped by it all.

I didn’t like the secret/reveals at the end and how all that played out.

Overall my main feeling is disappointment in this book as it had such a promising storyline.

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

A stunning return to this wonderful Cornish school

There's just something really special about the way Con Riley writes.

Not only are the people so vividly drawn, but so is the landscape of the Cornish setting, which is almost as important a character in bringing the narrative to life.

With Second Song, we're back in the gentle and welcoming surrounds of Glynn Harber, the school which takes in the misfits and the lost souls and gives them new purpose.

It couldn't be a more fitting place for the two stars of this beautiful romance, as both of them are not only in need of healing, but also of finding their feet on a different path.

I absolutely adore Rowan, but I'm #TeamLiam with a vengeance. This gentle Yorkshireman is everything good about the people who put themselves in harms way.

A former Sapper, he's selfless and somewhat self-effacing, dealing with the debilitating effects of tinnitus after being medically discharged.

He's also running away from his former crew, failing to cope with his trauma after a job went wrong, and one of his friends didn't make it.

If you've read Con's True Brit! you've already met Rowan. Then going by the name Ceiran and generally not being particularly pleasant at all to the main characters of that book.

Of course, there's always more than meets the eye, and your heart will probably break as hard as mine when you discover just what his sharp words were caused by.

It's easy to say that sometimes people rescue each other, but this book is a perfect example of how the most unlikely of meetings can lead to a brighter future.

With the consummate skill and brilliantly evocative narrative that is a hallmark of all her work, but these Cornish set works in particular, Con Riley takes the reader on wonderful journeys of healing and recovery.

Both men overcome some truly deep fears and take steps to put themselves back in control and they find an inner strength that comes from knowing the other one has their back.

There's also a true sense of comfort for any fans of Con's work to be on familiar ground and with beloved people like Charles and His Holy Hotness, Luke and the rough and ready Dominic Dymond.

But first time readers will have zero issues with this book either, it works as an excellent gateway into those earlier works because I'll bet they'll want to know all about the school and the fabulous family of people who call Glynn Harber home.

The more time I spend in the wilds of Cornwall at this very special school, the more I wish this was the education that every child who's ever struggled could receive.

Hayden is up next and I'm so looking forward to finding out more about the new teacher.

[L Ann]

DNF @ 20%

The premise of this story sounds amazing, and I already like the MCs. Unfortunately, I just can't seem to get into the story and, idk...the writing is throwing me off somehow? 😕 The same thing happened when I tried reading Charles, the first book in the Learning to Love series. I'm thinking this author and I just aren't compatible... which is such a shame because her stories all seem so lovely. 😔💔

[Edga · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written Emotional Romance 💓

From the moment I started reading the opening pages of this wonderful book, I knew I was in for an engrossing and emotional ride, I was completely drawn in, and became even more so with each passing page of this thoughtful, and very sensitively handled story. It's all about survival, love, relationships and living for the moment. It's a beautifully crafted story of friendships made, loss, difficult times, forging careers, misunderstandings, and later moving on to understanding and forgiveness, culminating in true love. It is actually a very romantic and sweet love story. I adored the laughter, support, and encouragement, the MCs received from Charles Heppell, he was his absolutely adorable amazing self, pulling all of those around him together, effortlessly welcoming Rowan and Liam into their found family, and making them feel a part of it. I absolutely loved being back at Glynne Harbour, it was like a meet up with old friends.
I won’t give out any spoilers, but suffice it to say the end of the book is absolutely fantastic !!! I would heartily recommend it to anyone who loves a gorgeous and heartwarming story that’s beautifully told. My only complaint is that I didn’t want it to end.

It was great to catch up with Luke, Hugo, Sol, Austin, Dom, and Charles Heppel once again. If you've not come across these guys, they're all found in Con's Learning to Love series. An absolute MUST read. Le sigh🥰

[Iz · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

Freaking adorable. What a resounding success my first Con Riley book was! I can't believe I haven't tackled this author's backlist yet, but "Second Song" was a beautiful introduction to it.

Sweet, soft, lovely, gut-wrenching in the best way possible; a tale of second chances, of healing, of finally finding yourself after years of pain and uncertainty. It made me feel a truckload of emotions, from start to finish, and I absolutely fell in love with all its beautiful, complicated characters, and the beautiful, complicated, wholesome found family they've made for themselves in this dream of a school for second chances: despite not knowing any of these minor characters previously, I fell in love with them so fast, and I also fell in love with the two protagonists. Liam and Rowan were unforgettable MCs: Rowan, with his quiet grit, his bravery, his vulnerabilities, his enormous heart, and Liam with his painful past and present, his sweet gruffness, his protectiveness and the sheer amount of care he has for the people he loves. I loved them individually, and I loved them as a couple too. I have a thing for a good ol' protector/whoops-I'm-a-danger-magnet trope, and they absolutely did not disappoint in that regard: they made me laugh and swoon and sigh, and they had me smiling like a fool from start to finish. They made such a lovely couple.

I loved the side characters, and I seriously cannot wait to go back and meet Charles and the padre, Luke and Austin and all the others from the very start. I'm sure all of their stories will be an emotional, gut-punching ride, and I cannot wait to dive in.

I also adored the writing: it's very evocative and poetic, although at times I had a few difficulties following along. I think it's partly because Rowan's past is pretty much muddled in secrets and events he can't remember, and also because my brain's not at its best at the moment. I'm sure my next Con Riley will be MUCH more easier on my brain now that I know what to expect.

Anyway, I wholly recommend this book: it made me cry, it made me swoon, and I finished it with a huge, proud smile on my face. I adored it!


TWs/CWs: PTSD, war stories, loss of family members, grief, childhood trauma, SA, non-consensual drugging, bullying.

Thanks GRR for the ARC. This is my honest review.

[Ami · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't think Con Riley's writing is for everyone. I mean, I feel like she has a way of constructing or choosing the words that make her sentences felt different to read (at times poetic, at times disorientated, other times very touching). So I admit that I also need certain mood to read her books.

Second Song is the first book of Riley's newest series, Second Chance School, still focusing on the Gylnn Harber/Cornwall universe but continuing with newest characters coming to the school.

On one hand, I was happy to get back to the characters I've known from before... on the other hand...

... well it was so very DISTRACTING!!

I thought the whole array of previous characters - Charles, Luke, Dom, even the kids - are taking the time away from the two main characters: Rowan and Liam. I felt that the pages dedicated to their own relationship weren't enough. Plus it felt quite instant connection - Rowan and Liam - I hated to called it insta love, because the love word didn't come until later, but it was definitely QUICK.

Rowan as a character definitely got more in-depth development, related to his trauma when he was still in the show TrueBrit (look for ANOTHER characters from that book popping up in here). Liam, not so much. Aside from he was a former soldier with tinnitus. Even his trauma of losing another person wasn't explored much.

AND, this book was VERY heavy in terms of trauma-talk, on both the adults and the kids. Sometimes I felt like I was reading a guide-book about handling trauma ... and it wasn't always a fun reading experience. It was like the trauma-guideline overtook the relationship development.

I still had moments of tears coming out though, especially when Rowan finally talked to his stepdad. That's the beauty of Riley's books, I guess. When it touches my heart, it touches deep.

BUT I admit that this isn't my favorite of hers. I hope the second book doesn't feel too trauma heavy and focuses more on the relationship.

[farmwifetwo · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the lack of big misunderstanding but it was a story about mental health in Gr1-K kids. The adults who needed the mental health got glossed over and easily dealt with. There wasn't much between our leads than sex and the odd interaction. I can't remember even if we were told how old Liam is. I am certain we got more lectures by Charles and Luke than plot. So standalone it is not.
But it was fluffy and a quick read.

[The Secret Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Main tropes: hurt / comfort, opposites attract, mental health

Second Song was an absolutely stunning and moving story with bruised and battered characters that will steal your heart!

Con Riley had me hooked right from the beginning, starting the story over the edge of a cliff, literally. Rowan, with his arms full of a lamb that he didn’t want to let go of, and Liam trying to bring them both to safety. I'm not sure if it can be called a meet-cute, but it was certainly a memorable and dramatic first meeting.

The chemistry between Rowan and Liam was instant and intense, and I liked how they didn't resist the pull and attraction between them. They were both bruised from the past, Liam after being medically discharged from the army, carrying a lot of guilt over the last mission that ended his career. Rowan also had his own trauma that he was trying to outrun instead of working through, and he came across as very fragile and insecure at the beginning of the story. Both Liam and Rowan had quite a lot to overcome, and their character growth and development was fantastic - I loved to see them starting to heal and thrive throughout the story!

There was so much support and understanding between Rowan and Liam, and seeing them together made my heart happy. They didn't hide their feelings for each other, Liam rushing back from his job sites just to spend a couple of stolen hours before Rowan had to work, and Rowan finding various excurses to check on Liam throughout the day. They were adorable and totally smitten with each other!

Second Song was a beautifully written and emotional story, and a fantastic start to a new series! I can't wait to go back to Cornwall and this school full of second chances, patience and love.

-
Thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the opportunity to read and review this book. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

[True Loveislovereview · Rating 5 out of 5]

Precious, so precious. Throughout the whole story, I felt quite melancholic. The story is so utterly sensitive, the characters so immensely heartfelt. Again and again, the author moves me to the core.
The educational part was full of respect positivity and possibilities. Children who need just that extra step of attention. Those extra steps are for Rowan too.
It’s a story about bruised souls and many little miracles.
This story makes me long for a world like Glynn Harber, warm, respectful, without polarization, looking for possibilities, not for limits, recognizing trauma, and giving room to grow and learn to live.
Read the blurb about both characters. Read the story to become part of something so immensely precious that my heart thudded out of my chest.
This author writes masterpieces!

[Kirsten · Rating 3 out of 5]

Soft return to school:
(some) new faces, same strong themes.
Want to go to there.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in the Second Chance School series was gorgeous. Emotional, swoony, hot and ever so romantic, exactly what I want in my reads :) Idon't think I'll ever tire of reading about the community Con Riley has created in her fictional village in Cornwall.
This book totally stands alone but I don't think you'll stop there if this is your first dive into Con Riley's books. Can't wait for the next book in the series, which is already available to pre-order!! Woohoo!

[gimmethosebooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

fucking gorgeous. godsdamn.

[Achim · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[BevS · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up for this, the first in a new spin-off series from Con, with most of my favourites already making an appearance, including little Tor and Maisie.

Rowan and Liam, two lost and damaged souls, were perfect together. Looking forward to Second Shot in 2025.

[Demian Grimm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Con Riley's novels consistently take me on deeply emotional journeys, and the experience is nothing short of captivating. From the very first page, I found myself completely engrossed, unable to put the book down until reaching its satisfying conclusion.

This book marks the beginning of the Second Chance School series, a spin-off shared world derived from the Learning to Love series.
It centers around Rowan, a trainee music teacher, and Liam, an ex-soldier now demolitions expert, both grappling with personal traumas and their aftermaths.
Their initial encounter, a "meet-cute" atop a cliff where Rowan finds herself in need of rescue, sets the stage for a relationship that blossoms gradually from attraction to profound love.
Unlike Riley's previous works, the romance here is refreshingly low-angst, offering a touching narrative of survival, loss, and the pursuit of second chances, all amidst the backdrop of forging new paths in life.

Throughout the story, familiar faces from Riley's universe make meaningful appearances, with notable roles for characters like Luke and Charles (Heppel-Eavis), whose presence enriches the narrative. Charles, as always, being an effortless scene-stealer in all the good ways. :)

As with all of Riley's writings, familial bonds, both biological and found, friendships, and community play integral roles. Each character, with their imperfections and vulnerabilities, is crafted with a depth that fosters a profound connection with the reader. Riley's ability to evoke such intimate empathy for her characters is truly remarkable.
Moreover, Riley's depiction of the Cornish coastline adds another layer of depth to the narrative, almost transforming the setting into a character of its own. It's a testament to Riley's skill that even the scenery feels imbued with emotion, evoking a sense of bittersweet longing when the story concludes.

In short, Con Riley's storytelling skills shine once again in this heartfelt story, striking a perfect balance between tension, romance, and fulfilment. I eagerly anticipate returning to Glynn Harber in the next instalment, whenever it may grace our shelves.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.

______________________

CW: Trauma relating to warfare, refugee journeys, violent crime, bullying, school exclusion, bereavement, racism, sexual assault, and drug abuse are mentioned in non-graphic detail and in a healing context.

[Victoria Otero · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5⭐️
4/5🌶️

Second song was the book I needed to get out of a reading slump. This book and the characters were such lovely and interesting to the point that I was rooting for all of them. Rowan was such a complex character and I loved how PTSD was portrayed into his characteristics. Liam was a lovely, gentle giant that was so intrigued by Rowan the moment they met. Second song is about trauma, love, second chances and fund family.

The love that Rowan and Liam have for each other and how they started was so much fun to read! I enjoyed their chemistry and how by the time, both of them began to want more and to explore more of their relationship. The way that they both were obsessed with each other since the beginning made me love them even more! And how they created such a strong foundation, even if it was casual, was great to see. What I love about this book is that their story made sense since the beginning, their development was natural and their love too.

Charles and Luke were such understanding characters, I loved them! And will for sure read their other series about them, I personally loved Charles so much that I was always happy to see him when he showed up.

We start with Rowan wanting to make a change by getting this need job at a special school. In the book, we meet with lovely teachers that want to make a change for the kids that need understanding people the most and kids that have been through a traumatic experience and have to leave their home to start new in another place. In this book we get to explore how, by learning how to help children in different ways, we get to see them thrive with their learning experiences and their emotions responses.

I have falling in love with this author’s book and will for sure read more of them.


—————————————————————————————

This book was and ARC by Gay Romance Review, and this is my honest review! Thank you for the chance to let me read this book!

[Janette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m ready to run away to Glynn Harber. It’s the kind of place where everything seems possible and you might dare to dream. There’s something amazing and wondrous about it that brings people together, lifts them up, and supports them as their best selves. And in creating an environment where students are given exactly what they need, the staff can’t help but achieve its own growth.

I’m as awestruck with Con Riley’s ability to bring this magical place to life on this visit as I have been each of the previous times. It’s entirely possible my love for Charles Heppel has grown tenfold despite him not being the main focus of this story. It's his innate ability to listen - really listen - to what people are saying. No wonder Rowan’s drawn to him given all he’s been through.

Second Song is as much about how to love and nurture people’s individuality and differences as it is about falling in love. The same could be said for learning to love yourself. These themes carry over from the Learning to Love series, and I appreciate how this spinoff keeps the same tone and overall spirit as the original.

Rowan and Liam are two broken guys trying to find their way back to a place where they feel worthy and deserving of happiness. Their traumatic pasts are very different yet equally devastating, leaving each a heavy load to bear. Their journey challenges them to trust and share that burden, lightening the load when it’s shouldered together. They have so much emotional growth. And resilience. It’s a beautiful story of survival and how given the space and time to nurture our differences and individuality, we all not just survive but thrive in this world.

Side note: there are several difficult topics discussed in this story including death of a parent (past), military combat, and PTSD. Please consult the TW/CW and read with care.

Thanks to Con Riley for giving us the ongoing story and saga of Glynn Harber. Its mission and survival are a prominent storyline in the original series, and it’s extremely gratifying to see that work continuing through the eyes of old friends and new faces.

*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*

[T Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

This community, these people were so warm and welcoming, so kind it makes you want to be a part of it. It isn’t too often that an author comes up with a new idea, a new vein of an idea that is really different, a story unlike others, a novelty. This author has successfully created that. Giving the reader a place to long for, a community to be desired and to belong to. This book screams of healing. Healing from the past whether real or invented to harm. It shouts at it’s loudest for Rowan yet announces itself for Liam in a way that he hears and runs toward. This story is warm, sweet and so very encouraging. The love story is only a part of this amazing story, a strong part, for sure. The book as a whole is touching and it touches your heart and your soul. It wraps you up in it’s warmth so welcomed that leaving as you turn the last page is a difficult thing to do. From the beginning to the very end it is captivating. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.

[Joyfully Jay]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.25 stars

Oh, can I just tell you how much I have been looking forward to this new Second Chance School series by Con Riley? Those of you who read my reviews regularly know what an enormous fan I am of Riley’s work, particularly her book, Charles, the first in the author’s Learning to Love series set at Glynn Harber school. This new series brings us back to Glynn Harber and my heart was just full to bursting knowing we would be returning to this magical place. For folks new to Riley’s work, I think this series can stand alone, and it gives a nice introduction to the school and some of the key players (including Charles himself, who is a prominent side character).

It was so wonderful to be back in Glynn Harber and I think there is a lot to explore with this series. The theme of “second chances” is one that has run throughout the original series and looks to be a focus for this new set of books.

Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.

[Cara · Rating 1 out of 5]

I could only get 9% into this book before giving up.

Of the small amount I read I was just thoroughly confused, it was like I’d jumped in further into the book as the back story was being presented as if I should already know about it and have some emotional connection with the MCs, and then the sexually traumatised Rowan (at least that was what I was picking up) just shoved his tongue down a perfect strangers throat and I’m supposed to have feelings about that…..with so many books on my TBR this was an easy DNF

[The Novel Approach · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Romance genre is rife with love stories about second chances. Con Riley delivers a patently beautiful one in Second Song, about two men who get a second chance to love themselves.

Rowan Byrn is introduced in a rather unconventional way, and it couldn’t have been sweeter or more rife with meet-cute vibes, despite the danger involved. Liam Sexton didn’t set out to be irrevocably smitten with Rowan at first sight, nor Rowan with Liam, but that’s precisely the way their story goes, and it’s lovely, pure and simple. The need to be in each other’s vicinity when circumstances work against them is something unfamiliar to them—the yearning part, that is—but is also altogether mutual. I don’t know what the opposite of risk averse tendencies is, but that doesn’t describe these two men in the slightest. They put themselves out there, wearing their hearts on their sleeves, and they hope for an outcome that keeps them close to each other for much longer than just one night.

Along with emotional healing comes new friends, rekindled friendships and family connections, and found family, which is an integral ingredient in the recipe this series follows. This little corner of Cornwall is composed of hurt and healing, kindness and compassion. There is an incredible gentleness in these stories that still manage to stir feelings and tweak emotions. There are no ifs, only whens. The only hows come with introspection and some top-notch dialogue, another hallmark of Riley’s storytelling.

Being back at Glynn Harber is like being welcomed home and embracing family who welcome and embrace you right back. While knowing the characters who meet Rowan right where he is delivers optimum warmth, it’s not necessary to know them all in order to feel their genuine commitment to everyone’s well-being, whether they be student or teacher or stranger. The most valuable lessons, after all, frequently happen outside the classroom but are no less imperative. For Rowan and Liam, those lessons come with a heaping helping of trauma, guilt, and injustice. Fortunately, they also usher in forgiveness. Not of each other, but of themselves.

[Capreacula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very nice addition to the Glynn Harber series.

It started - kind of - with True Brit, some almost 10 years ago (published in 2015): Ed and Pasha were contestants at a talent singing competition. That's been my first book by Con Riley, and I liked it quite a lot. It still in stored in my mobile phone (still not a Kindle reader gal). Those two "ended" up in Cornwall. Where another series is set - the one that started with "Charles" about a severely dyslexic butterfly of a pre-school teacher who collected a lifetimes worth of bad experiences and still was set on changing the system slowly from within. Glynn Harber in Cornwall turned out to be the ideal school environment for this very, very kind and funny guy. The gorgeous cover was what drew me in at first, but the story also delivered.
Rowan, the MC of this book, was also one of the contestants in the competition featured in True Brit and his experiences were far worse than those of Ed and Pasha (although they had their fare share of crappy ones, too). He more or less lost his singing voice. And almost his music. And, we learn, he's hugely talented when it comes to music. He doesn't realize it though since it's so normal to him.
What he did realize is how healing music can be, so he now tries to finish his music therapy teacher training in Glynn Harber.
On the way to his interview, under dramatic circumstances, he meets Liam, an army veteran, who also has his fair share of losses - one of them his clear hearing. A bomb blast left him with continuous tinnitus.
Both MCs are really, really interesting characters and it's fascinating to follow their journey. It's rather obvious that they are ideal for each other and they are smart enough to know what's good for them. They are also both good in communicating. And since they both have some - a lot of - trauma to unpack, they are ideal to lend the other one support when needed.
Facing one's trauma is the big topic of this story, and music and education (we meet Charles again as he's Rowan's mentor here). For me, this is endlessly interesting. And Rowan's pov is in the spotlight more than Liam's - it would have been great to get more history of both as they really are very very interesting guys. Of course, it wouldn't have been good for the story overall as it's just fine as it is.
The romance takes kind of second seat as they don't really have to fight too much but be there for each other. I usually don't much like the smutty scenes too much so was quite glad that here it's in great harmony - intimacy is important for the MCs but this part doesn't overpower the story.

I guess my review doesn't make much sense unless one has read the story, but these reviews are my way of documenting my reading progress.

[Sheena · Rating 5 out of 5]

- found family
- series
- second chances

I'm so happy to be back in Glyn Harber. I loved Con Riley's previous series, and this felt like going back and spending time with old friends, while making new ones. It's full of cameos from the previous series but can easily be read as a standalone as it's the first of a new series. I adored seeing Charles again and I loved that he was the one taking Rowan under his wing. Luke was the perfect romantic partner for Rowan too, their connection was instant, yet at the same time sweet and completely swoonworthy.

These two have both been through so much in different ways, and they're both equally brave. I loved reading their story and seeing them come through everything for that ending. This was such a wonderful read, seeing friends old and new and I can't wait for the next instalment.

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Kim Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read this author before. This is book 1 of a new series set in the Glynn Harber School in Cornwall UK. The main characters are Rowen and ex soldier Liam. Both have tragic backstories. updates from other side characters. Some hard topics covers and read the content warnings before starting but well worth the read. This book sucks you in from page one. Can't wait to read the others in this series.

[Deanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slow Story but if that is for you, a well written story that you will love.

If you love a slow story of growth and perusal courage, this is for you. The trauma and inner growth is a needed discussion. The characters are broken by live but not permanently broke. I think is a needed topic for a MM story. My problem is the first half or more was slow building. Many readers enjoy that. If that is you, you will love this.