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Second Chance School #3
Second Story
Big and burly caretaker vibes clash with fierce independence when a de facto single dad and the scarred welfare worker who once turned him down reunite in Cornwall.
Glynn Harber School needs a new live-in librarian, and I need the job more than breathing. The headmaster also wants a trauma-informed storyteller for his bruised children, so you better believe I pour my soul into winning both roles.
The only catch?
To score a place that could keep my own little brother safe, I’ll have to bare my broken heart in public.
It hurts to share the story of how our family shattered. I’ll push through that pain to prove to students that their first stories don’t have to define them. Their second story can have a happy ending.
No one warned me that I’d have to read my story aloud to the welfare worker who walked away when we needed him most.
Prepare for a page-turning, passionate second chance romance set in a British boarding school where hurt-comfort and happy endings are always on the curriculum.
This seriously romantic final instalment of the Second Chance School series can be enjoyed as a standalone title. Any C/W can be found on the copyright page.
Glynn Harber School needs a new live-in librarian, and I need the job more than breathing. The headmaster also wants a trauma-informed storyteller for his bruised children, so you better believe I pour my soul into winning both roles.
The only catch?
To score a place that could keep my own little brother safe, I’ll have to bare my broken heart in public.
It hurts to share the story of how our family shattered. I’ll push through that pain to prove to students that their first stories don’t have to define them. Their second story can have a happy ending.
No one warned me that I’d have to read my story aloud to the welfare worker who walked away when we needed him most.
Prepare for a page-turning, passionate second chance romance set in a British boarding school where hurt-comfort and happy endings are always on the curriculum.
This seriously romantic final instalment of the Second Chance School series can be enjoyed as a standalone title. Any C/W can be found on the copyright page.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2025
51 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 3, 2025
I love this story world so much, and it's still the only one I would genuinely be super happy to live in if it were real!
I liked this story about second chances and learning to accept yourself, but also find ways to want to be better not only for yourself, but to help others too. I did enjoy the romance between Isaac and Joe, but honestly the kids really stole the show for me. I was so invested in Lenny recovering from his trauma and coming out of his shell. I wanted to know what Noah was going through and how he was going to face what was coming next for him. Tor is always great to see again too.
I also love all of the existing Glynn Harber characters - it's genuinely the only school I would ever consider sending my kid to, but as much as I do wish that it was real and that these teachers were real too, I have been super inspired and I've implemented so much of what these guys do into the home education I do for my kid.
I did find the pacing a little difficult to keep up with, but that's more a me issue. I need concrete timelines because I don't follow time passing that easily!
The Summer School spin off series sounds so good though, and I can't wait to meet even more character's in Con Riley's story universe.
I liked this story about second chances and learning to accept yourself, but also find ways to want to be better not only for yourself, but to help others too. I did enjoy the romance between Isaac and Joe, but honestly the kids really stole the show for me. I was so invested in Lenny recovering from his trauma and coming out of his shell. I wanted to know what Noah was going through and how he was going to face what was coming next for him. Tor is always great to see again too.
I also love all of the existing Glynn Harber characters - it's genuinely the only school I would ever consider sending my kid to, but as much as I do wish that it was real and that these teachers were real too, I have been super inspired and I've implemented so much of what these guys do into the home education I do for my kid.
I did find the pacing a little difficult to keep up with, but that's more a me issue. I need concrete timelines because I don't follow time passing that easily!
The Summer School spin off series sounds so good though, and I can't wait to meet even more character's in Con Riley's story universe.
May 15, 2025
Have you ever looked at a gorgeous full moon hanging low in the sky, so stunning that it leaves you breathless, but when you go to take a picture of it, it just looks like a tiny white dot? That’s how I feel trying to review Con’s books—they’re so incredibly well written and beautifully moving, and I end up flailing around inadequately going “wow, that was great” 🤣🤣🤣
Truly, words don’t do justice here. Yet again, Con sweeps us away to Glynn Harber, making us yearn for a happy ending for these poor battered souls (always so satisfyingly delivered). I’m invested every single time, barely able to put the book down. I don’t know how she does it with every book, but she remains an auto-buy author for me because I know she’ll deliver a story full of love and hope and beauty, of characters who grow and learn and lean on each other. It’s the very best kind of hurt/comfort where the reader walks away feeling like they’ve been comforted too. I never, ever want stories of Glynn Harber to end.
Truly, words don’t do justice here. Yet again, Con sweeps us away to Glynn Harber, making us yearn for a happy ending for these poor battered souls (always so satisfyingly delivered). I’m invested every single time, barely able to put the book down. I don’t know how she does it with every book, but she remains an auto-buy author for me because I know she’ll deliver a story full of love and hope and beauty, of characters who grow and learn and lean on each other. It’s the very best kind of hurt/comfort where the reader walks away feeling like they’ve been comforted too. I never, ever want stories of Glynn Harber to end.
May 28, 2025
Isaac's had it tough, his life was thrown into a spiral when his mum got arrested for drugs supplying after she'd fallen victim to a cuckoo love bombing scheme and he's been having to take care of his younger brother Lenny ever since.
The one bright light in their world used to be Lenny's keyworker Joe Da Silva, a man who Lenny calls his Silver Hero because Joe's scars show he knows what it's like to get caught up with the wrong crowd on the Wintergreen estate.
But Joe left, and Isaac's held that against him ever since, so he's really not best pleased to discover the man he thought was trying to drown himself off the Cornish coast is the guy he once tried to kiss.
Of course, things aren't quite as straightforward as that and it takes a few hard conversations with Isaac reluctantly having to face the fact he'd compromised Joe's position and Joe's a good guy who genuinely believed his mum would be bailed at her court hearing for them to reconnect.
Con then draws the reader into a story of how the little things can be big changers as Joe's down in Cornwall to connect with Noah (from A Wedding in a Week) who's going to be a witness shortly in a criminal case in London.
As with all her Cornish stories, the landscape plays as much a role as the people, and Glynn Harber becomes a safe haven for Lenny to slowly open up again and for Isaac to feel like he might have found a place to restart his own life.
Working alongside Joe brings back all the feelings of safety, alongside the intense attraction he still has for the older man and, now he's no longer involved officially with the family, they're finally free to act on them.
It's a perfect blend of hot, instant passion, sloppy kisses and blowjobs, married into a more slow burn feeling as the deeper emotions take longer to even out and get onboard, but there's no doubting that these two are perfect for each other.
Coupled with the secondary storyline which is common to all the Glynn Harber books, of finding ways to reach children who've been overlooked or let down by the mainstream education system, Con once again weaves a beautifully interconnected story about finding hope and making good choices.
The main tension driver in this story comes from their mum's situation in prison and Joe's brother's involvement in her case, but you won't be getting any spoilers here!
Drawing this latest visit to Glynn Harber to a close, Second Story delivers on all counts, a beautiful romance, an interesting second plotline with plenty to speculate about, hurt comfort by the bucketload, reconnecting with family and healing old wounds, and two men who provide each other with a safe place to unload their burdens.
I can't wait to see where we head next in our Cornish adventures!
#ARC kindly received from the author, I am voluntarily leaving a review
May 27, 2025
Second Story is the perfect conclusion to the phase two/next generation Glynn Harber books, known as the Second Chance School series. If you are a fan of any of the Cornwall set books by this author, it’s a must-read.
We have the usual connections to previous stories - long time readers of Con Riley’s books will already love Charles, Hugo and Luke but you will also recognise Noah (Marc’s brother from A Wedding In A Week) as well as a very brief glimpse of lawyer Keir.
Although this is Isaac & Joe’s book, I have to say for me the memorable character in this book was headmaster Luke. His story has already been told and although I really enjoyed it, I have to admit he didn’t become an insta-favourite like some other characters have (cough-Charles-cough). However, in this book I absolutely loved him and you really see how much he dedicates to making his students and staff feel safe and what a sanctuary the school is. That’s not to say Isaac & Joe’s story wasn’t memorable too, it’s just this book really opened my eyes to how wonderful Luke is. I also have to say that although he’s not in it a great deal, Charles is still a scene stealer!
At one stage in the story Isaac asks who needs book boyfriends? I think the answer is we all do, when they are as wonderful as the men within these pages.
The epilogue sums up how I feel about this series and world perfectly: “the very best books have one thing in common: they always make me wish for a few more pages”. I’m sad to see the end of this series, but I am hoping that maybe the author might go back to book one (Second Song) and feel inspired to tell us the story of some of Liam’s army friends next.
We have the usual connections to previous stories - long time readers of Con Riley’s books will already love Charles, Hugo and Luke but you will also recognise Noah (Marc’s brother from A Wedding In A Week) as well as a very brief glimpse of lawyer Keir.
Although this is Isaac & Joe’s book, I have to say for me the memorable character in this book was headmaster Luke. His story has already been told and although I really enjoyed it, I have to admit he didn’t become an insta-favourite like some other characters have (cough-Charles-cough). However, in this book I absolutely loved him and you really see how much he dedicates to making his students and staff feel safe and what a sanctuary the school is. That’s not to say Isaac & Joe’s story wasn’t memorable too, it’s just this book really opened my eyes to how wonderful Luke is. I also have to say that although he’s not in it a great deal, Charles is still a scene stealer!
At one stage in the story Isaac asks who needs book boyfriends? I think the answer is we all do, when they are as wonderful as the men within these pages.
The epilogue sums up how I feel about this series and world perfectly: “the very best books have one thing in common: they always make me wish for a few more pages”. I’m sad to see the end of this series, but I am hoping that maybe the author might go back to book one (Second Song) and feel inspired to tell us the story of some of Liam’s army friends next.
October 8, 2025
Wow! This book is just so beautiful in every way. I was crying, laughing, and rooting for Isaac, Joe, and Lenny from the very beginning. It really is, quite simply, stunning. It's captivating, compelling, mesmerising, sad, and so beautifully written.
From the beginning, it took me through a heart stopping array of emotions. Con's uncomplicated and pacy writing style had me devouring this in one sitting. She tackles some difficult issues in a sensitive yet original way and manages to rouse compassion for all the characters. I love how she takes on these and applies them to her stories. It's also great to meet up with old friends once again. Luscious Luke and His Holy Hotness play a big part in this one. It was lovely to see how much they've developed as characters and how happy they are. Also, we get to see the Inimitable Charles Heppel and Tor, doing what they do best, jollying people along, getting the best out of them.
This is a perfect ending to this series. I've enjoyed all of the couples in the Second Chance books, but I think that Isaac and Joe are my favourites. Like I said, it made me smile. It made me cry....result! Another feel-good story from Con, with a truly joyous ending.
From the beginning, it took me through a heart stopping array of emotions. Con's uncomplicated and pacy writing style had me devouring this in one sitting. She tackles some difficult issues in a sensitive yet original way and manages to rouse compassion for all the characters. I love how she takes on these and applies them to her stories. It's also great to meet up with old friends once again. Luscious Luke and His Holy Hotness play a big part in this one. It was lovely to see how much they've developed as characters and how happy they are. Also, we get to see the Inimitable Charles Heppel and Tor, doing what they do best, jollying people along, getting the best out of them.
This is a perfect ending to this series. I've enjoyed all of the couples in the Second Chance books, but I think that Isaac and Joe are my favourites. Like I said, it made me smile. It made me cry....result! Another feel-good story from Con, with a truly joyous ending.
May 29, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Second Story is the third book in the Second Chance School series, a spinoff to Con Riley’s Learning to Love series. I absolutely adore this magical Cornwall world that Riley has created and have loved these books, along with the various other stories set in this larger world. This book once again hits on the themes of redemption, healing, and finding a way forward after a difficult past. The school is a place of love and welcome and it is really showcased nicely here.
On the relationship end, this story reads much like a lovers reunited trope. Though Joe and Isaac were never really together, they had fallen for one another when Joe was working with Lenny.
If you haven’t read any of these books, Second Story will stand alone pretty well. But I can wholeheartedly recommend both series and have really loved the journey Riley has taken us on with these book
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Second Story is the third book in the Second Chance School series, a spinoff to Con Riley’s Learning to Love series. I absolutely adore this magical Cornwall world that Riley has created and have loved these books, along with the various other stories set in this larger world. This book once again hits on the themes of redemption, healing, and finding a way forward after a difficult past. The school is a place of love and welcome and it is really showcased nicely here.
On the relationship end, this story reads much like a lovers reunited trope. Though Joe and Isaac were never really together, they had fallen for one another when Joe was working with Lenny.
If you haven’t read any of these books, Second Story will stand alone pretty well. But I can wholeheartedly recommend both series and have really loved the journey Riley has taken us on with these book
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
May 29, 2025
“. . . from Once upon a time all the way to The End.”
What happens between the two in Second Story is what Con Riley unfailingly builds so eloquently. There is a certain beauty to this story, one all its own despite it taking place in a world we know so well. It is the Butterfly Effect in story form—the idea that one seemingly small act can reach far away and lead to monumental change.
Glynn Harber School is the butterfly that flaps its metaphorical wings in Cornwall, and in far-off London instigates an immense opportunity for Isaac and his little brother, Lenny, to escape a life touched by drugs and violence. In only the way Luke Lawson and the lovely folks at this bastion of comfort and care and safety can do, the warmth and welcome to Isaac and Lenny come with introspection and healing.
The relationship between Isaac and Joe is complicated in a way that delineates the strength and integrity of both men. Isaac needs someone steady and unwavering to lean on as he bears a responsibility that would crush lesser men, but while Joe is that person, his responsibility to maintain professional distance forbids him from giving what both he and Isaac want. That they meet again on a more level playing field doesn’t make them any less complicated, though. The healing and building along the way is pure Con Riley, filled with heart and warmth and moments of nothing more than pure connection.
Second Story is an impeccable ending to this set of books at Glynn Harber School. I can’t imagine any better way to get from “Once Upon a Time” to “And They Lived Happily Ever After” than to embrace and conquer and celebrate the challenges in between. It’s a journey of love, friendship, found family, and the sort of healing that happens to broken hearts and world-weary souls.
What happens between the two in Second Story is what Con Riley unfailingly builds so eloquently. There is a certain beauty to this story, one all its own despite it taking place in a world we know so well. It is the Butterfly Effect in story form—the idea that one seemingly small act can reach far away and lead to monumental change.
Glynn Harber School is the butterfly that flaps its metaphorical wings in Cornwall, and in far-off London instigates an immense opportunity for Isaac and his little brother, Lenny, to escape a life touched by drugs and violence. In only the way Luke Lawson and the lovely folks at this bastion of comfort and care and safety can do, the warmth and welcome to Isaac and Lenny come with introspection and healing.
The relationship between Isaac and Joe is complicated in a way that delineates the strength and integrity of both men. Isaac needs someone steady and unwavering to lean on as he bears a responsibility that would crush lesser men, but while Joe is that person, his responsibility to maintain professional distance forbids him from giving what both he and Isaac want. That they meet again on a more level playing field doesn’t make them any less complicated, though. The healing and building along the way is pure Con Riley, filled with heart and warmth and moments of nothing more than pure connection.
Second Story is an impeccable ending to this set of books at Glynn Harber School. I can’t imagine any better way to get from “Once Upon a Time” to “And They Lived Happily Ever After” than to embrace and conquer and celebrate the challenges in between. It’s a journey of love, friendship, found family, and the sort of healing that happens to broken hearts and world-weary souls.
July 7, 2025
There is nothing I could say to do this book justice, so I won't even try.
Read this whole series.
Read this whole series.
October 1, 2025
Gah! Glynn Harbor!
Not really 4 stars, but such
hot sex, sweet stories.
Not really 4 stars, but such
hot sex, sweet stories.
May 29, 2025
“Once upon a time, a librarian saved me.”
As a librarian, libraries are near and dear to me, so when I learned this final installment would be about Glynn Harber’s search for one of their own, I melted. I spend a lot of my day job in awe of the work of school librarians, and I won’t hesitate to shout about it every chance I get. Librarians have a way of working themselves into the fabric of their communities, strengthening and enriching them from the inside out. They connect, unite, and elevate the lives they touch, and Con Riley has captured that brand of magic effortlessly in Isaac. He’s exactly what this close-knit community needs, the kind of person who understands the value of a story and in helping each and every person write their own, even if he’s not sure he’s destined for a happy ending of his own.
SECOND STORY is every bit as emotional and heartfelt as the other books in this series which comes as no surprise. Con Riley has a gift for storytelling, an ability to intertwine trauma with romance and hope in a way that you’ll feel in the depths of your soul. I can only describe this one as an emotional roller coaster, because the highs are amazing, but the lows…they’re devastating. Several of the storylines converge in the crime cycle of Wintergreen, and each case is equally as terrible and distressing as the last.
I’ve mentioned before just how magical I find Glynn Harber; it’s one of my very favorite fictional worlds. It’s the kind of place where individuality is encouraged, accepted, and appreciated, and I wish more of this good existed in our world. I’m sad to see this series end and will miss these characters terribly - I can only hope Con Riley might have more in store for them in the future.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
As a librarian, libraries are near and dear to me, so when I learned this final installment would be about Glynn Harber’s search for one of their own, I melted. I spend a lot of my day job in awe of the work of school librarians, and I won’t hesitate to shout about it every chance I get. Librarians have a way of working themselves into the fabric of their communities, strengthening and enriching them from the inside out. They connect, unite, and elevate the lives they touch, and Con Riley has captured that brand of magic effortlessly in Isaac. He’s exactly what this close-knit community needs, the kind of person who understands the value of a story and in helping each and every person write their own, even if he’s not sure he’s destined for a happy ending of his own.
SECOND STORY is every bit as emotional and heartfelt as the other books in this series which comes as no surprise. Con Riley has a gift for storytelling, an ability to intertwine trauma with romance and hope in a way that you’ll feel in the depths of your soul. I can only describe this one as an emotional roller coaster, because the highs are amazing, but the lows…they’re devastating. Several of the storylines converge in the crime cycle of Wintergreen, and each case is equally as terrible and distressing as the last.
I’ve mentioned before just how magical I find Glynn Harber; it’s one of my very favorite fictional worlds. It’s the kind of place where individuality is encouraged, accepted, and appreciated, and I wish more of this good existed in our world. I’m sad to see this series end and will miss these characters terribly - I can only hope Con Riley might have more in store for them in the future.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
June 2, 2025
gahhhhhhhhhh
June 9, 2025
Second Story is Con Riley's finest Cornwall world and Glynn Harber story yet. You ever read one of those books that is so beautiful and powerful that you just can't find the right words to describe just how amazing the story is? This is how I feel about Second Story.
Con weaves so much depth, love, emotion, pain heartbreak, tears, and healing into Second Story that is is literally breathtaking in the best way possible.
I cried sad tears, happy tears, heartbroken tears, and heart healing tears more times than I can count with Second Story. This deep, emotional story is going to steal your heart and make you love the Cornwall world even more than you already do. Second Story will leave you breathless in all the best ways.
Con weaves so much depth, love, emotion, pain heartbreak, tears, and healing into Second Story that is is literally breathtaking in the best way possible.
I cried sad tears, happy tears, heartbroken tears, and heart healing tears more times than I can count with Second Story. This deep, emotional story is going to steal your heart and make you love the Cornwall world even more than you already do. Second Story will leave you breathless in all the best ways.
May 22, 2025
A visit to Glynn Harber feels, to borrow a phrase from John Denver, like coming home to a place I've never been before. I have fallen in love with Con Riley's corner of Cornwall, which she describes so clearly that I almost feel like I've been there. The land is as much a character in her interconnected books set there as any of its residents, and I would love to climb into the book and go sit under the willow tree or on a rock by the ocean.
As with all the books in this series, the plot revolves around second chances. In this case, those second chances include the main characters. Of course, Glynn Harber and its people - Hugo, Charles, Luke, Tor, and the rest - wrap their arms around them, facilitating their healing, which Con describes in beautiful detail. Her gentle prose is almost lyrical, and I fell more deeply in love with Joe, Isaac, and Isaac's brother Lenny than I have any of Con's characters since Nick and Tom from His Compass. And Tor, of course, who remains my all-time favorite of her characters.
Their past is a bit rougher than most of Con's characters, especially Joe, who could have stepped out of Garrett Leigh's Darkest Skies series with his background and references to road men, top boys, and feds, but he's perfect for the sub-plot involving another crossover character, Noah from A Wedding in a Week.
While there's spice, it's not gratuitous. It fits the characters and situations, and to be honest, I would have been just as happy with the story had it been fade to black, because the emotion of the story was solid without any steam.
As is typical for Con's books, I experienced the gamut of emotions while immersing myself in the world of Glynn Harber. I shed a few tears, laughed a lot, and swooned plenty. This story wrapped snuggly around me like a well-worn and well-loved quilt, leaving me with a smile and sense of warm satisfaction.
You could read this book as a standalone, but really, don't cheat yourself like that. If you are new to Con's books, you may want to go back to the beginning of the Learning to Love series, or better yet, to the His series. If you've read some of those, but not the Second Chance School series, start with the first one, Second Song.
As with all the books in this series, the plot revolves around second chances. In this case, those second chances include the main characters. Of course, Glynn Harber and its people - Hugo, Charles, Luke, Tor, and the rest - wrap their arms around them, facilitating their healing, which Con describes in beautiful detail. Her gentle prose is almost lyrical, and I fell more deeply in love with Joe, Isaac, and Isaac's brother Lenny than I have any of Con's characters since Nick and Tom from His Compass. And Tor, of course, who remains my all-time favorite of her characters.
Their past is a bit rougher than most of Con's characters, especially Joe, who could have stepped out of Garrett Leigh's Darkest Skies series with his background and references to road men, top boys, and feds, but he's perfect for the sub-plot involving another crossover character, Noah from A Wedding in a Week.
While there's spice, it's not gratuitous. It fits the characters and situations, and to be honest, I would have been just as happy with the story had it been fade to black, because the emotion of the story was solid without any steam.
As is typical for Con's books, I experienced the gamut of emotions while immersing myself in the world of Glynn Harber. I shed a few tears, laughed a lot, and swooned plenty. This story wrapped snuggly around me like a well-worn and well-loved quilt, leaving me with a smile and sense of warm satisfaction.
You could read this book as a standalone, but really, don't cheat yourself like that. If you are new to Con's books, you may want to go back to the beginning of the Learning to Love series, or better yet, to the His series. If you've read some of those, but not the Second Chance School series, start with the first one, Second Song.
May 23, 2025
Welcome to Glynn Harber. A school every kid deserves!
Meet the more than precious and beautiful people who work there. If you are familiar and lucky as I am, and already meet them, you’ll know for sure what a heartwarming beauty is waiting for you! With this story, you’ll meet some new people.
We meet Isaac Webber, who desperately wants a job at Glynn Harber’s library. Glynn Harber is the best place for his little brother Lenny.
Isaac is the best for this job, only he can’t seem to convince the headmaster Luke Lawson.
He got another chance!
Joe da Silva is one of a twin, the black sheep of the two, of the whole family. His scars aren’t only on his soul, they are painfully visible.
“Black sheep like me are rarely welcome.” Ha! He had never been to Glynn Harber before, did he?
When Isaac started his second story, I had to stop reading because my eyes blurred and I couldn’t breathe.
“That’s what we do here at Glynn Harber. We take care of old hurts so our students can move on without them.”
There’s not one sentence without feelings, everything is full of emotions and purpose.
“Trauma responses aren’t a sign of weakness. They signpost old scars, that’s all.“
Isaac and Joe have both been through trauma, that could get in the way. Life isn’t easy for them, will they have a future?
They are such deeply layered guys, the author did (as always) an amazing job.
All the characters in this series are so beautifully layered!! Read it yourself!
Watch how the whole content unfolds, chef's kiss!
My heart, what a story, it’s impossible to keep your heartbeat stable and your eyes dry.
What a precious, PRECIOUS, and overwhelming story. So immensely beautiful!
My first 5+++ read of this year!
Highly recommended!!
Meet the more than precious and beautiful people who work there. If you are familiar and lucky as I am, and already meet them, you’ll know for sure what a heartwarming beauty is waiting for you! With this story, you’ll meet some new people.
We meet Isaac Webber, who desperately wants a job at Glynn Harber’s library. Glynn Harber is the best place for his little brother Lenny.
Isaac is the best for this job, only he can’t seem to convince the headmaster Luke Lawson.
He got another chance!
Joe da Silva is one of a twin, the black sheep of the two, of the whole family. His scars aren’t only on his soul, they are painfully visible.
“Black sheep like me are rarely welcome.” Ha! He had never been to Glynn Harber before, did he?
When Isaac started his second story, I had to stop reading because my eyes blurred and I couldn’t breathe.
“That’s what we do here at Glynn Harber. We take care of old hurts so our students can move on without them.”
There’s not one sentence without feelings, everything is full of emotions and purpose.
“Trauma responses aren’t a sign of weakness. They signpost old scars, that’s all.“
Isaac and Joe have both been through trauma, that could get in the way. Life isn’t easy for them, will they have a future?
They are such deeply layered guys, the author did (as always) an amazing job.
All the characters in this series are so beautifully layered!! Read it yourself!
Watch how the whole content unfolds, chef's kiss!
My heart, what a story, it’s impossible to keep your heartbeat stable and your eyes dry.
What a precious, PRECIOUS, and overwhelming story. So immensely beautiful!
My first 5+++ read of this year!
Highly recommended!!
May 28, 2025
★彡 𝟓 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐒! 彡★
I wish I had the words to describe how much I loved reading 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲. Con Riley’s writing slays me and then puts me back together again. Books that get my emotions going as much as this one did (nearly happy sobbing at one point) are my absolute favorite and this one was quite wonderful.
I was telling book friends a few nights ago that the only word I know to describe her writing is lyrical. To me that means the writing flows so smoothly that I don’t even notice how long the book is. See, the sweet spot for me is a book that’s between 50,000 and 75,000 words because I know that I can easily read a book of that length in one evening. Con writes books that are much longer and they are some of my favorite books. I actually read 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 over a few days when what I wanted to do was to gobble it up right away. I loved it so much, right from the beginning, that I think I slowed down because I didn’t want it to end.
Isaac and Joe have so many obstacles to overcome – several that I certainly didn’t see coming – so their HEA was very much hard won and well deserved.
I don’t often mark quotes when I’m reading but I marked a few while reading 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲. My favorite quote of all is this one: “𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝒷𝑒𝓈𝓉 𝒷𝑜𝑜𝓀𝓈 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝑜𝓃𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒾𝓃 𝒸𝑜𝓂𝓂𝑜𝓃: 𝒯𝒽𝑒𝓎 𝒶𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝓂𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝓂𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓈𝒽 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝒶 𝒻𝑒𝓌 𝓂𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝓅𝒶𝑔𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝓉𝓊𝓇𝓃.” That quote right there perfectly describes how I felt when I reached the end of this story. In fact, it pretty much describes how I feel when I reach the end of each of Con’s books. (And several other author's books, too.)
★彡 𝟓 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐒! 彡★ are not enough for this book.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
I wish I had the words to describe how much I loved reading 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲. Con Riley’s writing slays me and then puts me back together again. Books that get my emotions going as much as this one did (nearly happy sobbing at one point) are my absolute favorite and this one was quite wonderful.
I was telling book friends a few nights ago that the only word I know to describe her writing is lyrical. To me that means the writing flows so smoothly that I don’t even notice how long the book is. See, the sweet spot for me is a book that’s between 50,000 and 75,000 words because I know that I can easily read a book of that length in one evening. Con writes books that are much longer and they are some of my favorite books. I actually read 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 over a few days when what I wanted to do was to gobble it up right away. I loved it so much, right from the beginning, that I think I slowed down because I didn’t want it to end.
Isaac and Joe have so many obstacles to overcome – several that I certainly didn’t see coming – so their HEA was very much hard won and well deserved.
I don’t often mark quotes when I’m reading but I marked a few while reading 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲. My favorite quote of all is this one: “𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝒷𝑒𝓈𝓉 𝒷𝑜𝑜𝓀𝓈 𝒽𝒶𝓋𝑒 𝑜𝓃𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒾𝓃 𝒸𝑜𝓂𝓂𝑜𝓃: 𝒯𝒽𝑒𝓎 𝒶𝓁𝓌𝒶𝓎𝓈 𝓂𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝓂𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓈𝒽 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝒶 𝒻𝑒𝓌 𝓂𝑜𝓇𝑒 𝓅𝒶𝑔𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝓉𝓊𝓇𝓃.” That quote right there perfectly describes how I felt when I reached the end of this story. In fact, it pretty much describes how I feel when I reach the end of each of Con’s books. (And several other author's books, too.)
★彡 𝟓 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐒! 彡★ are not enough for this book.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
May 20, 2025
- series
- second chance
Getting to come back to Glynn Harber school at this point feels like a homecoming for me too. I love this school and the varied cast of characters so much, they're almost like friends to me at this point so I'm here for any and all stories set in the school. I love the world that Con has built, it's so well painted it feels real to me at this point. Seeing Charles, Hugo, Tor and everyone we've spent time with in the past was so welcome. But this is Isaac and Joe's story, and while it is set in an existing world you could enjoy it as a standalone.
Isaac has had a tough year after his mother is taken away from him and his younger brother, leaving him the sole guardian to a young boy, with the possibility of a job in a Cornwall school their possible last chance to escape and create a better life for both. Telling stories is Isaac's life, and I loved how he could weave a story from seemingly nothing and use it to help others. I liked both Isaac and Joe very much, both have been through a lot and bear the scars both physically and mentally. These two together are so perfect for each other, complementing each other in every possible way and supporting each other through everything.
I loved this story so much, any time I get to spend in Cornwall is a delight and this is no different. It's heartfelt, as so many of Con's stories are - yet hopeful and uplifting at the same time. I'm hoping Glynn Harber is here for the long haul - and not just because I live to see Charles and his maggots make an appearance ;)
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
- second chance
Getting to come back to Glynn Harber school at this point feels like a homecoming for me too. I love this school and the varied cast of characters so much, they're almost like friends to me at this point so I'm here for any and all stories set in the school. I love the world that Con has built, it's so well painted it feels real to me at this point. Seeing Charles, Hugo, Tor and everyone we've spent time with in the past was so welcome. But this is Isaac and Joe's story, and while it is set in an existing world you could enjoy it as a standalone.
Isaac has had a tough year after his mother is taken away from him and his younger brother, leaving him the sole guardian to a young boy, with the possibility of a job in a Cornwall school their possible last chance to escape and create a better life for both. Telling stories is Isaac's life, and I loved how he could weave a story from seemingly nothing and use it to help others. I liked both Isaac and Joe very much, both have been through a lot and bear the scars both physically and mentally. These two together are so perfect for each other, complementing each other in every possible way and supporting each other through everything.
I loved this story so much, any time I get to spend in Cornwall is a delight and this is no different. It's heartfelt, as so many of Con's stories are - yet hopeful and uplifting at the same time. I'm hoping Glynn Harber is here for the long haul - and not just because I live to see Charles and his maggots make an appearance ;)
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
May 29, 2025
Rating: 4
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: second chance, hurt / comfort, single dad
Second Story was a gorgeous addition to Con Riley's Cornwall stories!
Isaac and Joe's story was a beautiful and compelling read, with so much hurt / comfort and tenderness. It was a bit of a second chance with a chance meeting; Joe used to be the keyworker of Isaac's brother Lenny, but left after Isaac asked him for a kiss. There was obviously some unresolved tension between them, and their first accidental reunion in Cornwall didn't end well.
Isaac and Joe's path was far from straightforward, but they kept running into each other and even when they weren't on the best terms, they were very drawn to each other. I loved the slow, simmering attraction between them and how they gradually started to build something together. Isaac was trying to do his best to keep everything together and taking care of Lenny, but he was really struggling. It was a relief to see them both get some room to breathe and land at Glynn Harber.
I loved Isaac's storytelling and how he turned his and Lenny's reality into an adventure and story. They had been through a lot, and were in desperate need of a safe space to process and start to heal. Joe ended up being a big part of that for both Isaac and Lenny, and they made such a cute little family together. It was lovely to see Isaac and Joe leaning on each other, finding the support and solace they both had been longing for.
Second Story was an emotional story full of complicated family situations, past mistakes, second chances and healing. I adored Isaac and Joe, and I loved to see them stealing moments together whenever they could. I really enjoyed being back at Glynn Harber - there’s something truly special about these stories and Con Riley’s writing that has me mesmerized every time.
-
I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, MM
Tropes / tags: second chance, hurt / comfort, single dad
Second Story was a gorgeous addition to Con Riley's Cornwall stories!
Isaac and Joe's story was a beautiful and compelling read, with so much hurt / comfort and tenderness. It was a bit of a second chance with a chance meeting; Joe used to be the keyworker of Isaac's brother Lenny, but left after Isaac asked him for a kiss. There was obviously some unresolved tension between them, and their first accidental reunion in Cornwall didn't end well.
Isaac and Joe's path was far from straightforward, but they kept running into each other and even when they weren't on the best terms, they were very drawn to each other. I loved the slow, simmering attraction between them and how they gradually started to build something together. Isaac was trying to do his best to keep everything together and taking care of Lenny, but he was really struggling. It was a relief to see them both get some room to breathe and land at Glynn Harber.
I loved Isaac's storytelling and how he turned his and Lenny's reality into an adventure and story. They had been through a lot, and were in desperate need of a safe space to process and start to heal. Joe ended up being a big part of that for both Isaac and Lenny, and they made such a cute little family together. It was lovely to see Isaac and Joe leaning on each other, finding the support and solace they both had been longing for.
Second Story was an emotional story full of complicated family situations, past mistakes, second chances and healing. I adored Isaac and Joe, and I loved to see them stealing moments together whenever they could. I really enjoyed being back at Glynn Harber - there’s something truly special about these stories and Con Riley’s writing that has me mesmerized every time.
-
I received an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 31, 2025
Absolutely Beautiful
I don’t think I can come up with words to adequately describe or do justice to this beautiful book.
So well written, Con Riley takes us again to Cornwall and to the incredible Glynn Harber school. Again I was moved to tears for her damaged hero’s. This is hurt/comfort at its best. I cried for the pain, emotional and physical that Joe was going through and the emotions battering Isaac as he coped without his mum and became a fantastic guardian for his little brother Lennie, who had seen things no child should have, so much so that he became non-verbal. Isaac was desperate to get him out of London and where better than the sanctuary for wounded souls.
Again I read this book in one sitting, I just couldn’t put it down. Over the three books I have come to love these characters so much and Con puts so much energy into each of them you cannot help but love them, right down to the smallest. When it came time for the foster twin babies to return to their mother Charles was distraught. We have seen him coping with two screaming babies, and little Adam, being sleep deprived and still with a big smile on his face. Adam picked up on the imminent departure and Con made me tear up again with his reaction.
I’m really not ready to leave Glynn Harber or these amazing characters behind. In my mind this school and these characters feel real, the sign of a good book, so I hope Con feels the same and wow, that twist near the end! I didn’t see that coming.
Isaac and Joe get their very well deserved HEA and I cannot recommend this book, this series enough.
I don’t think I can come up with words to adequately describe or do justice to this beautiful book.
So well written, Con Riley takes us again to Cornwall and to the incredible Glynn Harber school. Again I was moved to tears for her damaged hero’s. This is hurt/comfort at its best. I cried for the pain, emotional and physical that Joe was going through and the emotions battering Isaac as he coped without his mum and became a fantastic guardian for his little brother Lennie, who had seen things no child should have, so much so that he became non-verbal. Isaac was desperate to get him out of London and where better than the sanctuary for wounded souls.
Again I read this book in one sitting, I just couldn’t put it down. Over the three books I have come to love these characters so much and Con puts so much energy into each of them you cannot help but love them, right down to the smallest. When it came time for the foster twin babies to return to their mother Charles was distraught. We have seen him coping with two screaming babies, and little Adam, being sleep deprived and still with a big smile on his face. Adam picked up on the imminent departure and Con made me tear up again with his reaction.
I’m really not ready to leave Glynn Harber or these amazing characters behind. In my mind this school and these characters feel real, the sign of a good book, so I hope Con feels the same and wow, that twist near the end! I didn’t see that coming.
Isaac and Joe get their very well deserved HEA and I cannot recommend this book, this series enough.
May 25, 2025
There is something about Con Riley’s writing that just makes you want to keep and keep on reading. I have been hooked on her books featuring Cornwall and Glynn Harber from the very beginning. I have fond memories of that area of Cornwall since I was a young child; as a family of seven, we used to spend a few weeks every summer in my Uncle’s touring caravan which was always pitched in the same site and these memories always bring me a sense of comfort. This is the same sense of comfort I get from reading about Glynn Harber. Making friends with all of these inspirational men has really opened my eyes to what we can all achieve if only we take the time and effort to open our hearts and minds.
I fell so hard for Isaac and Joe in this story, as I do for all our Glynn Harber and Glynn Harber adjacent men. This story made me smile, it made me laugh and it certainly made me cry. How could it not? The subject matter is so well researched and sensitively dealt with. You really feel that you are there with the characters witnessing every triumph and every disappointment. Luke Lawson is the man that everyone needs on their side and he surrounds himself with an unbelievable team of people ready to step into action at a moment’s notice. I love them all. Second Chance School, Learning to Love and the Christmas stories are books I return to again and again and I heartily recommend them all to absolutely everyone.
I fell so hard for Isaac and Joe in this story, as I do for all our Glynn Harber and Glynn Harber adjacent men. This story made me smile, it made me laugh and it certainly made me cry. How could it not? The subject matter is so well researched and sensitively dealt with. You really feel that you are there with the characters witnessing every triumph and every disappointment. Luke Lawson is the man that everyone needs on their side and he surrounds himself with an unbelievable team of people ready to step into action at a moment’s notice. I love them all. Second Chance School, Learning to Love and the Christmas stories are books I return to again and again and I heartily recommend them all to absolutely everyone.
May 30, 2025
It's kind of hard to put into words what exactly makes Con's books so special. They're just packed full of feelings and this one is no different. Isaac has been through a lot and is doing what he can to survive while taking care of his younger brother. This chance at being a librarian-storyteller at Glynn Harbor could turn it all around for him. In a twist of fate, he runs across Joe, who was a social worker for his brother. These two have a rocky past but it doesn't take long for the air to clear between these two, which is good because they both become each others' rock. Isaac shows Joe that he's wanted and needed. Something that Joe doesn't feel he gets from his own family after certain consequences of his own past. Joe is there to give Isaac some room to breathe and play. To allow Isaac to want something for himself. This is a highly emotional read that deals with a lot of difficult topics. Yet what could be a depressing story is hopeful and I adored watching these two opening up and trusting not only each other but the world around them. Glynn Harbor is an incredibly special world and I love seeing all the characters that Con has made so special. Luke plays a fairly large role, and it's always a treat to see him helping to heal not just the younger generations but also his staff. I can't give Con enough stars or praise for this story. It blew me away like many of her others and it's a truly not to be missed read.
May 23, 2025
My heart is never the same after finishing a book in the Second Chance School series and that’s just how I like it. Be prepared to sit with your feelings while reading this story of resilience and finding love. Second Story has so much heart, loveable characters who have heart wrenching backstories, and a wonderful found family that takes both MCs in. Both Isaac and Joe have had rough journeys and met under less than ideal circumstances. As the family advocate for Isaac’s younger brother, nearly giving into the attraction simmering between them forces Joe to walk away from his job and Isaac. Nearly a year later with an ocean of hurt between them, they reconnect when fate brings them back together at Glynn Harber. This second chance, hurt comfort, found family romance is an amazing and heartfelt ending to the Second Chance School series.
I loved how Isaac and Joe’s story came full circle and I loved the care they showed for each other and their past wounds both physical and not. I couldn’t get enough of Luke’s gentle nudges and observations helping both men to grow and see a future they didn’t think they could reach for. Hugo and Charles also return and provide even more sweet moments. This story made me swoon, smile, and even laugh out loud a few times. It also covers some very hard topics with great care including several crimes and the aftermath of those incidents. It discusses families torn apart and put back together. This was a magical read which made me love this series even more than I already did.
I loved how Isaac and Joe’s story came full circle and I loved the care they showed for each other and their past wounds both physical and not. I couldn’t get enough of Luke’s gentle nudges and observations helping both men to grow and see a future they didn’t think they could reach for. Hugo and Charles also return and provide even more sweet moments. This story made me swoon, smile, and even laugh out loud a few times. It also covers some very hard topics with great care including several crimes and the aftermath of those incidents. It discusses families torn apart and put back together. This was a magical read which made me love this series even more than I already did.
May 27, 2025
Isaac & Joe
The Glynn Harber crew keeps the emotions high throughout the story. Luke, Charlie & Hugo shine all over again in their roles as leaders and family. Isaac & Lenny are heartily welcomed into the school's community and begin their path to healing.
This is a heart-wrenching story. Isaac & his little brother Lenny have already been through so much before they find their way to Glynn Harber, and then Isaac has to push himself to fight for his deserved place there. I love that Luke is still a huge presence we get to see for the school. He presents such a hard, stoic exterior, but everyone who gets to know him know his softer side, and that's what we get to see with Isaac in his place.
Joe is an intriguing character to follow. He's got the type of past that no one would want to share, but he's not afraid to be himself and show everyone who he is. He uses his strength and perseverance for good, and shares his story and his resources with those who need it.
Watching Isaac & Joe rediscover the small spark they had in the past and reignite their flame & passion is a privilege and a lot of fun. These two are so sweet, and once Isaac gets over his hesitation with Joe, they both recognize each other as end goals.
The twists and turns the book takes near the end as we resolve the storyline were a bit tricky, and I may have missed one or two things, because it felt like some details may have been missing when it comes to the connections that were made between cases.
The story kept me on the edge of my emotional seat right up until the end. The epilogue brought the happy smiles and laughter back in.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
The Glynn Harber crew keeps the emotions high throughout the story. Luke, Charlie & Hugo shine all over again in their roles as leaders and family. Isaac & Lenny are heartily welcomed into the school's community and begin their path to healing.
This is a heart-wrenching story. Isaac & his little brother Lenny have already been through so much before they find their way to Glynn Harber, and then Isaac has to push himself to fight for his deserved place there. I love that Luke is still a huge presence we get to see for the school. He presents such a hard, stoic exterior, but everyone who gets to know him know his softer side, and that's what we get to see with Isaac in his place.
Joe is an intriguing character to follow. He's got the type of past that no one would want to share, but he's not afraid to be himself and show everyone who he is. He uses his strength and perseverance for good, and shares his story and his resources with those who need it.
Watching Isaac & Joe rediscover the small spark they had in the past and reignite their flame & passion is a privilege and a lot of fun. These two are so sweet, and once Isaac gets over his hesitation with Joe, they both recognize each other as end goals.
The twists and turns the book takes near the end as we resolve the storyline were a bit tricky, and I may have missed one or two things, because it felt like some details may have been missing when it comes to the connections that were made between cases.
The story kept me on the edge of my emotional seat right up until the end. The epilogue brought the happy smiles and laughter back in.
I received an authorized copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
June 1, 2025
I wish Glynn Harber was a real life school. Where kids with difficulties can thrive and get the help they need. Where the lonely, the sad, the scared and the scarred are cherished. Luke Lawson is my hero. But then so is Charles Heppel and Hugo. I have loved this series.
Isaac goes to Glynn Harber in search of a librarian job and a refuge for his younger brother Lenny. They’ve lived on in inner city estate in London where drug gangs rule, and knife crime is rampant. Lenny has already seen too much in his short life. His mum is on remand accused of dealing drugs and he hasn’t been allowed to speak to her or see her. He’s become selective mute. Poor sweet little guy.
Lenny’s support worker was Josh Da Silva. A man also from the same estate. He fell in with the wrong crowd and eventually paid the price in an acid attack that left him scarred for life. He turned the corner and uses his knowledge and experience to help others. He’s also heading for Glynn Harber and an unexpected reunion with Isaac and Lenny.
There’s a lot going on in this book and you have to keep your wits about you to follow the twists and turns of Joe’s story and how it crosses with what happened to Isaac and Lenny and their mum.
It’s a story full of heart and full of caring. Glynn Harber really is a very special place.
Isaac goes to Glynn Harber in search of a librarian job and a refuge for his younger brother Lenny. They’ve lived on in inner city estate in London where drug gangs rule, and knife crime is rampant. Lenny has already seen too much in his short life. His mum is on remand accused of dealing drugs and he hasn’t been allowed to speak to her or see her. He’s become selective mute. Poor sweet little guy.
Lenny’s support worker was Josh Da Silva. A man also from the same estate. He fell in with the wrong crowd and eventually paid the price in an acid attack that left him scarred for life. He turned the corner and uses his knowledge and experience to help others. He’s also heading for Glynn Harber and an unexpected reunion with Isaac and Lenny.
There’s a lot going on in this book and you have to keep your wits about you to follow the twists and turns of Joe’s story and how it crosses with what happened to Isaac and Lenny and their mum.
It’s a story full of heart and full of caring. Glynn Harber really is a very special place.
May 29, 2025
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Another incredible story. Glynn Harber grants so many second chances - a haven for battered souls. It might feel like it’s a magical place, but really, the magic lies with Headmaster Luke and the rest of the incredibly caring staff and students who have made their home there.
Isaac is desperate and lost when he arrives in Cornwall, he needs the job on offer, not just for himself but for his brother too. They come from a rough area that’s no longer safe. What he doesn’t expect is to run into the man who broke his heart.
But like most situations, what he thinks happened with Joe isn’t the full story. And Joe is searching for something more too.
Like all of her stories, Con builds layers upon layers that reveal tender spots and emotional revelations. I’m not going to lie, I bawled at a couple of moments. Con pokes at bruises but heals you, too.
Special shout-out for getting to see so much of Luke and Hugo. And Tor - he’s such a cutey.
Another incredible story. Glynn Harber grants so many second chances - a haven for battered souls. It might feel like it’s a magical place, but really, the magic lies with Headmaster Luke and the rest of the incredibly caring staff and students who have made their home there.
Isaac is desperate and lost when he arrives in Cornwall, he needs the job on offer, not just for himself but for his brother too. They come from a rough area that’s no longer safe. What he doesn’t expect is to run into the man who broke his heart.
But like most situations, what he thinks happened with Joe isn’t the full story. And Joe is searching for something more too.
Like all of her stories, Con builds layers upon layers that reveal tender spots and emotional revelations. I’m not going to lie, I bawled at a couple of moments. Con pokes at bruises but heals you, too.
Special shout-out for getting to see so much of Luke and Hugo. And Tor - he’s such a cutey.
May 20, 2025
I just cannot get over the beautiful way that Con writes. I feel like I was there for everything that Isaac and Joe went through. I sobbed multiple times because I felt their hurts right along with them. This world is so very near and dear to my heart at this point to where I feel like I've been to Glynn Harber and learned right at Luke's knee like everyone else.
This one has a lot of hurt comfort. Isaac is a dragon, protecting his brother from all the hurts, and he needs a safe space to land. Of course GH is going to be that for him, because it's that for every one, but more importantly, Joe is that for him. And gosh every time Joe feels unloveable I wanted to reach right through a book so I could give him a hug. He desperately needed a dragon to protect him, even if he was the big "scary-looking" one. He was so soft and tender with all his broken bits exposed.
It's not all sad and hurt. Their chemistry is off the charts and it has one of those happily ever afters that touches every single person. It's just...lovely. One day I'll find better words to describe Con's books, but they're deep in my heart.
This one has a lot of hurt comfort. Isaac is a dragon, protecting his brother from all the hurts, and he needs a safe space to land. Of course GH is going to be that for him, because it's that for every one, but more importantly, Joe is that for him. And gosh every time Joe feels unloveable I wanted to reach right through a book so I could give him a hug. He desperately needed a dragon to protect him, even if he was the big "scary-looking" one. He was so soft and tender with all his broken bits exposed.
It's not all sad and hurt. Their chemistry is off the charts and it has one of those happily ever afters that touches every single person. It's just...lovely. One day I'll find better words to describe Con's books, but they're deep in my heart.
May 28, 2025
Trust Con Riley to always give us a sweet story full of broken men who find the perfect people to show them they’re loved and fill in their missing pieces. She gets me every single time and Second Story was no exception!
Isaac Webber has unexpectedly been his younger brother Lenny’s guardian for more than a year after their mother is arrested and while he’s been doing everything he can to take care of Lenny, but functioning in survival mode all these months. The storyteller/librarian position at Glynn Harber is his last chance for getting the two out of their current situation, to somewhere better for both of them. Chance brings Joe da Silva back into their lives after he swooped in to save them and then disappeared for about a year. Joe has been dealing with a lot after escaping his own survival situation years ago and has the scars to prove it.
Even though both of these men are broken in their own ways, they’re open to love and drawn to each other like a moth to a flame. Their chemistry was a slow simmer from the very beginning, even when they weren’t on the best terms. The two of them and Lenny were the sweetest little family unit and seeing them support each other and help to bear each other’s burdens made my heart so happy. They really were meant to be together and it shows in every aspect of their relationship.
I love any chance to return to Glynn Harber to catch up with some of my favorite characters and this book was no different - Charles, Hugo and Luke all had prime roles and I loved every second of seeing them again! If you haven’t read this series, what are you waiting for?!
Isaac Webber has unexpectedly been his younger brother Lenny’s guardian for more than a year after their mother is arrested and while he’s been doing everything he can to take care of Lenny, but functioning in survival mode all these months. The storyteller/librarian position at Glynn Harber is his last chance for getting the two out of their current situation, to somewhere better for both of them. Chance brings Joe da Silva back into their lives after he swooped in to save them and then disappeared for about a year. Joe has been dealing with a lot after escaping his own survival situation years ago and has the scars to prove it.
Even though both of these men are broken in their own ways, they’re open to love and drawn to each other like a moth to a flame. Their chemistry was a slow simmer from the very beginning, even when they weren’t on the best terms. The two of them and Lenny were the sweetest little family unit and seeing them support each other and help to bear each other’s burdens made my heart so happy. They really were meant to be together and it shows in every aspect of their relationship.
I love any chance to return to Glynn Harber to catch up with some of my favorite characters and this book was no different - Charles, Hugo and Luke all had prime roles and I loved every second of seeing them again! If you haven’t read this series, what are you waiting for?!
May 20, 2025
Beautiful, charming, fabulous, heartwarming, ….. I could go on and on, because this wonderful book deserves all this praise and more. Once more, the author has brought us back to Glynn Harbour with the story of Isaac and Joe, two lost souls who not only find where they truly belong but also each other. It’s a story that doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of life, particularly what it could be like for young adults living in tough areas in London, but, it also gives us the other side of the coin, the heartwarming side full of love and support that everyone gets at Glynn Harbour. Along the way, we meet Isaac’s little brother Lenny, and Noah, who both desperately need the type of healing only this special school can provide. We also get glimpses of past favourite characters in Charles, Hugo, Luke and even little Tor and Masie, and it’s so good to see them all.
There is nothing not to love about this book; it’s sweet, emotional, has heat and a little angst, and will hold you captive from the first page to the wonderful last. I can’t recommend this book highly enough.
There is nothing not to love about this book; it’s sweet, emotional, has heat and a little angst, and will hold you captive from the first page to the wonderful last. I can’t recommend this book highly enough.
June 2, 2025
So gorgeous! There simply aren't enough stars to give out for this beauty. Filled to the tippy-top with all the magic Con Riley brings: so much love, so much wonder, so much care, and so, so much feeling. There are always tears, both anguished and joyful, and always so much satisfaction when things come together. Loved the little peek into Meera's particular neurodiversity. My daughter and I always have converations about this spectrum, more so now that her daughter's school therapist has said that she falls on the spectrum (frankly, I think we all do; some it just affects more obviously than others). The therapist has given her some good coping strategies, which have reduced the instances of what my daughter had labeled "outbreaks of turdliness". So, happier daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter for the win. Anyway, enough digression, except to say that I love a story that brings up a variety of topics that enlighten, explain, or encourage further investigation without detracting from---nay, while bringing even more to the tale.
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