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A Mother’s Second Chance: A completely gripping and emotional family drama about love, relationships and blended families for 2026
An utterly heartwrenching story about love, loss and second chances that will break your heart and put it back together again. For fans of Kate Hewitt, Emma Robinson and Sheila Norton.
You’d do anything to protect the ones you love
When Zoe Henry’s best friend Lou dies suddenly, her world shatters. But she must set aside her grief as she’s named guardian of Lou’s two young children – a role she never expected to be taking on.
With her own kids grown up, Zoe was finally beginning to rediscover who she was. Starting over as a mother was the last thing on her mind. But as sleepless nights turn into shared laughter, something begins to stir in her – a new sense of purpose.
But just as Zoe starts to believe this unexpected second chance might be the start of something beautiful, a secret left in Lou’s house threatens to unravel everything.
Now Zoe must face not only the secrets of her best friend’s past, but the fear that she might lose the fragile new family she’s come to cherish.
Praise for A Mother’s Second Chance‘Heartbreakingly beautiful from beginning to end. Found it so hard to put down as followed the journey through. Absolute must read!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Moving and heartwarming’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘An emotional and heartwarming exploration of grief and life after death’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Full of emotion, beautifully written with believable and lovely characters’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A poignant examination of resilience through loss… impossible to put this book down’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A really well written novel about family, friendship, loss and love’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Really pulls at the heart strings, full of loss, pain and love. An emotional enjoyable read’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Melted my heart into a puddle with its gorgeous prose, insight into human nature and the intensity of a mother’s unconditional love’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A beautifully written story that made me laugh and cry in equal measures, and I was so involved in the characters that when I wasn’t reading I was thinking about them’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
When Zoe Henry’s best friend Lou dies suddenly, her world shatters. But she must set aside her grief as she’s named guardian of Lou’s two young children – a role she never expected to be taking on.
With her own kids grown up, Zoe was finally beginning to rediscover who she was. Starting over as a mother was the last thing on her mind. But as sleepless nights turn into shared laughter, something begins to stir in her – a new sense of purpose.
But just as Zoe starts to believe this unexpected second chance might be the start of something beautiful, a secret left in Lou’s house threatens to unravel everything.
Now Zoe must face not only the secrets of her best friend’s past, but the fear that she might lose the fragile new family she’s come to cherish.
Praise for A Mother’s Second Chance‘Heartbreakingly beautiful from beginning to end. Found it so hard to put down as followed the journey through. Absolute must read!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'Moving and heartwarming’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘An emotional and heartwarming exploration of grief and life after death’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Full of emotion, beautifully written with believable and lovely characters’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A poignant examination of resilience through loss… impossible to put this book down’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A really well written novel about family, friendship, loss and love’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Really pulls at the heart strings, full of loss, pain and love. An emotional enjoyable read’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Melted my heart into a puddle with its gorgeous prose, insight into human nature and the intensity of a mother’s unconditional love’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘A beautifully written story that made me laugh and cry in equal measures, and I was so involved in the characters that when I wasn’t reading I was thinking about them’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- GenresContemporary
463 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2025
36 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Lefebve
3 books2 followersSarah Lefebve is the author of two novels.
She grew up in a village in North Yorkshire before moving south as an adult. She now lives in Basingstoke, Hampshire with her husband and two children.
She is a former journalist who in her own words eventually "swapped sticking to the facts for making stuff up".
She wrote her first novel - The Park Bench Test - whilst forging a new career in event management, somehow fitting writing in around a full time job, being a mum, running as many miles every week as her love of red wine, cheese and chocolate dictates, and sharing the odd night out with her husband.
She values and treasures the friendships in her life and firmly believes that “friends are the family we choose”.
Her best friend loves and trusts her enough to look after her children if there were ever to come a day when she can’t, which provided the inspiration for her second novel - A Mother’s Second Chance.
She grew up in a village in North Yorkshire before moving south as an adult. She now lives in Basingstoke, Hampshire with her husband and two children.
She is a former journalist who in her own words eventually "swapped sticking to the facts for making stuff up".
She wrote her first novel - The Park Bench Test - whilst forging a new career in event management, somehow fitting writing in around a full time job, being a mum, running as many miles every week as her love of red wine, cheese and chocolate dictates, and sharing the odd night out with her husband.
She values and treasures the friendships in her life and firmly believes that “friends are the family we choose”.
Her best friend loves and trusts her enough to look after her children if there were ever to come a day when she can’t, which provided the inspiration for her second novel - A Mother’s Second Chance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 13, 2026
Such a poignant read, one that will immediately give you the feels.
Ever since she sat next to her in primary school, Zoe and Lou have been best friends. Thirty years on, they are closer than ever.
Whilst Zoe put a career in veterinary medicine on hold to be a stay at home mother to Oliver, Sophie and Isla, Lou chose a career over children. However, her and husband Rich eventually welcomed Phoebe and Zach into the world, much wanted and adored.
Still. We are reminded that nothing is guaranteed when Lou and Rich are tragically killed in a car accident, leaving those two small children orphans. Even though she and ex husband Mike are godparents, Zoe is surprised to learn that Lou explicitly willed only her to be the children's guardian.
By now, Zoe is used to sole parenting- Mike's lack of commitment and communication was the catalyst to their divorce. However, her son is now an adult and two daughters are teens. Zoe has to quickly refresh those skills she thought she'd never need again, whilst grieving for her friend and attempting to take care of a lost little girl who simply can't grasp the idea that Mummy and Daddy are gone.
This newly found family is just settling into a new normal when Zoe makes a questionable discovery whilst clearing out Lou and Rich's house. Suddenly, Zoe learns that her best friend isn't exactly who she seemed, carrying secrets to the grave. In her death, Lou left a massive mess and now Lou is left to pick up the pieces...
A Mother's Second Chance is my first novel by Sarah Lefebve. A contemporary novel, it explores such themes as family values, friendship, betrayal, grief and new beginnings.
It's quite a lovely and relatable tale- Zoe's voice carries a range of emotions as she navigates motherhood for a second time. We are introduced to her children and ex, Mike, who are more than willing to step up and help out (well... Mike needs a bit of convincing). Work colleague and friend, Robyn is on hand to be a voice of reason, a sounding board and surrogate auntie to Zoe's brood.
There's one character that I detested (guess who?). I found their actions to be way beyond selfish and way too risky. I suppose you can't really know someone after all, even though claiming to.
An author to watch out for in the future.
4.75 🌟
Ever since she sat next to her in primary school, Zoe and Lou have been best friends. Thirty years on, they are closer than ever.
Whilst Zoe put a career in veterinary medicine on hold to be a stay at home mother to Oliver, Sophie and Isla, Lou chose a career over children. However, her and husband Rich eventually welcomed Phoebe and Zach into the world, much wanted and adored.
Still. We are reminded that nothing is guaranteed when Lou and Rich are tragically killed in a car accident, leaving those two small children orphans. Even though she and ex husband Mike are godparents, Zoe is surprised to learn that Lou explicitly willed only her to be the children's guardian.
By now, Zoe is used to sole parenting- Mike's lack of commitment and communication was the catalyst to their divorce. However, her son is now an adult and two daughters are teens. Zoe has to quickly refresh those skills she thought she'd never need again, whilst grieving for her friend and attempting to take care of a lost little girl who simply can't grasp the idea that Mummy and Daddy are gone.
This newly found family is just settling into a new normal when Zoe makes a questionable discovery whilst clearing out Lou and Rich's house. Suddenly, Zoe learns that her best friend isn't exactly who she seemed, carrying secrets to the grave. In her death, Lou left a massive mess and now Lou is left to pick up the pieces...
A Mother's Second Chance is my first novel by Sarah Lefebve. A contemporary novel, it explores such themes as family values, friendship, betrayal, grief and new beginnings.
It's quite a lovely and relatable tale- Zoe's voice carries a range of emotions as she navigates motherhood for a second time. We are introduced to her children and ex, Mike, who are more than willing to step up and help out (well... Mike needs a bit of convincing). Work colleague and friend, Robyn is on hand to be a voice of reason, a sounding board and surrogate auntie to Zoe's brood.
There's one character that I detested (guess who?). I found their actions to be way beyond selfish and way too risky. I suppose you can't really know someone after all, even though claiming to.
An author to watch out for in the future.
4.75 🌟
December 17, 2025
I completed this book in just two sittings, hooked wouldn’t even begin to cover it.
I cried, I laughed, I absolutely detested (I will leave you to read for yourself and decide which character this relates to!)
A heart warming tale with just enough betrayal and deceit to keep you wondering what on earth is coming next?!
I can’t wait to see what Sarah comes up with next.
I cried, I laughed, I absolutely detested (I will leave you to read for yourself and decide which character this relates to!)
A heart warming tale with just enough betrayal and deceit to keep you wondering what on earth is coming next?!
I can’t wait to see what Sarah comes up with next.
November 4, 2025
I was entranced by this novel. It pulls on heart strings and ultimately reminds us not to throw away all the good things that life has to offer, even when we take it all for granted. A sad, sorrowful story about a family suddenly extended when mother Zoe becomes guardian to two small children after both their parents are killed in a car crash. Life is complicated and messy and becomes more so when secrets are unearthed. Sensitively told, a can’t put down novel, about family life, decisions, trust and love. Delightful and realistic characters interwoven with a deep understanding of what’s important in life.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers HarperCollins for this ARC for review.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers HarperCollins for this ARC for review.
October 27, 2025
Brilliant from the beginning until the end.
January 19, 2026
A Mother’s Second Chance by Sarah Lefebve is the most beautiful and heart-wrenching contemporary novel about love and loss; grief and guilt; faith and families. It is a novel that I savoured and was emotionally invested in. It was a book that I never wanted to end.
This is a book about loss and how it affects all those involved. A best friend, Lou, and her husband are tragically killed, leaving their two children to be looked after by Zoe, Lou’s best friend. Friends for over thirty years since meeting at secondary school, the grief is very raw, “I am angry at my friend… that she died.” Grief throws up many emotions. It is a question of wading through the grief journey. “One day you’ll wake up and though the pain will still be there, it will be a little duller. A little easier to bear.”
Loss never goes away. “It’s okay to cry… You don’t get a quota of tears.” Tears can come when we do, and when we don’t, expect them.
Guilt is the bedfellow of grief. “It’s okay to laugh… It doesn’t mean you don’t miss them.” We are allowed to smile and laugh again. “The start of spring. A beautiful but painful reminder that life does not stop. Even when your best friend dies.” We feel that life should stop turning when loved ones die, but the wheels just keep spinning.
The children left behind are five-year-old Phoebe and her baby brother Zack who is not one yet. Phoebe’s grief is hard to deal with as her pain cannot be taken away. “She [Phoebe] asks if it is possible to un-die once you have died.”
Love never dies. “They [Phoebe & Zack] will forever be the love that links me to the best friend I ever had.” Loving her children is the last act of love that Zoe can do for Lou. “We will make sure Phoebe and Zack remember Louise and Rich. They don’t need a house to do that. And we will help them make new memories.”
We hear of a painful journey to conceive. I found the following quote incredibly moving: “Phoebe was their fifth and final go [IVF]. Not because they had run out of money, but because they had run out of tears.”
Within the book we see that the grief journey is different for children and adults. For children, it is a journey of Puddle Jumping. For adults, grief is a river of grief.
We witness the love that envelops the younger children, as Zoe’s older children wrap the little ones in love.
Loss forces us to look at our own priorities. What is most important? Wealth? Jobs? Family? To love those around us, is priceless. “My dad is a man of few words. But that kiss is loaded with so many of them.”
Just as the new, blended family is beginning to emerge through the fog of grief, another discovery is made that threatens to rock and disable the foundations. Another decision is called for – bury the truth and live a lie? Or tell the truth and face the consequences? The moral dilemma is real.
I absolutely loved A Mother’s Second Chance. It was an emotional read that turned me inside out. It was also a very beautiful book. The characters were likable and easy to empathise with. I am sorry that it is ended.
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
This is a book about loss and how it affects all those involved. A best friend, Lou, and her husband are tragically killed, leaving their two children to be looked after by Zoe, Lou’s best friend. Friends for over thirty years since meeting at secondary school, the grief is very raw, “I am angry at my friend… that she died.” Grief throws up many emotions. It is a question of wading through the grief journey. “One day you’ll wake up and though the pain will still be there, it will be a little duller. A little easier to bear.”
Loss never goes away. “It’s okay to cry… You don’t get a quota of tears.” Tears can come when we do, and when we don’t, expect them.
Guilt is the bedfellow of grief. “It’s okay to laugh… It doesn’t mean you don’t miss them.” We are allowed to smile and laugh again. “The start of spring. A beautiful but painful reminder that life does not stop. Even when your best friend dies.” We feel that life should stop turning when loved ones die, but the wheels just keep spinning.
The children left behind are five-year-old Phoebe and her baby brother Zack who is not one yet. Phoebe’s grief is hard to deal with as her pain cannot be taken away. “She [Phoebe] asks if it is possible to un-die once you have died.”
Love never dies. “They [Phoebe & Zack] will forever be the love that links me to the best friend I ever had.” Loving her children is the last act of love that Zoe can do for Lou. “We will make sure Phoebe and Zack remember Louise and Rich. They don’t need a house to do that. And we will help them make new memories.”
We hear of a painful journey to conceive. I found the following quote incredibly moving: “Phoebe was their fifth and final go [IVF]. Not because they had run out of money, but because they had run out of tears.”
Within the book we see that the grief journey is different for children and adults. For children, it is a journey of Puddle Jumping. For adults, grief is a river of grief.
We witness the love that envelops the younger children, as Zoe’s older children wrap the little ones in love.
Loss forces us to look at our own priorities. What is most important? Wealth? Jobs? Family? To love those around us, is priceless. “My dad is a man of few words. But that kiss is loaded with so many of them.”
Just as the new, blended family is beginning to emerge through the fog of grief, another discovery is made that threatens to rock and disable the foundations. Another decision is called for – bury the truth and live a lie? Or tell the truth and face the consequences? The moral dilemma is real.
I absolutely loved A Mother’s Second Chance. It was an emotional read that turned me inside out. It was also a very beautiful book. The characters were likable and easy to empathise with. I am sorry that it is ended.
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
October 31, 2025
Sometimes you make friends at school, and at that moment, you’re convinced you’ll stay in touch forever — that you’ll be best friends for life. But often, life gets in the way. You move, go to a different school, or simply grow apart because of busy schedules.
In other cases, distance or time don’t make any difference at all, and you continue to play an important role in each other’s lives.
That’s exactly what happened with Zoe and Lou. They’ve been best friends for over 30 years, and their bond is still as strong as the day they met. They’ve been there for each other through every high and low, always offering support and comfort.
But what would you do if your best friend asked you to step into her shoes if something were ever to happen to her — to take care of her children if she no longer could?
Would you agree and silently hope that day would never come, knowing it would mean something tragic had happened to your dearest friend? Or would you shy away from such a heavy promise?
For me, a true friendship is built on absolute trust. You don’t have to share every tiny detail, but hiding something important — or worse, lying — would definitely put someone on my blacklist.
So what if you suddenly discovered that the person you trusted most wasn’t quite who you thought they were? Would you still see them as your best friend, or would your perception change forever?
I really admired Zoe for everything she did. She gave her all to make the children happy, even if it meant sacrificing herself in the process. Of course, the children can’t be blamed, but I would still feel deeply betrayed. Personally, I wouldn’t use the title “BFF” anymore — Zoe is honestly too kind for this world.
I truly loved this book. It’s beautifully written and deeply human. Sometimes, taking a step back makes you realize what you had — and what you’re missing. Luckily, some people do get a second chance to make things right, though others never will.
A story filled with emotion, love, and betrayal, showing just how strong people can be with the right support.
An absolute must-read in my opinion. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
In other cases, distance or time don’t make any difference at all, and you continue to play an important role in each other’s lives.
That’s exactly what happened with Zoe and Lou. They’ve been best friends for over 30 years, and their bond is still as strong as the day they met. They’ve been there for each other through every high and low, always offering support and comfort.
But what would you do if your best friend asked you to step into her shoes if something were ever to happen to her — to take care of her children if she no longer could?
Would you agree and silently hope that day would never come, knowing it would mean something tragic had happened to your dearest friend? Or would you shy away from such a heavy promise?
For me, a true friendship is built on absolute trust. You don’t have to share every tiny detail, but hiding something important — or worse, lying — would definitely put someone on my blacklist.
So what if you suddenly discovered that the person you trusted most wasn’t quite who you thought they were? Would you still see them as your best friend, or would your perception change forever?
I really admired Zoe for everything she did. She gave her all to make the children happy, even if it meant sacrificing herself in the process. Of course, the children can’t be blamed, but I would still feel deeply betrayed. Personally, I wouldn’t use the title “BFF” anymore — Zoe is honestly too kind for this world.
I truly loved this book. It’s beautifully written and deeply human. Sometimes, taking a step back makes you realize what you had — and what you’re missing. Luckily, some people do get a second chance to make things right, though others never will.
A story filled with emotion, love, and betrayal, showing just how strong people can be with the right support.
An absolute must-read in my opinion. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
December 14, 2025
Zoe and Lou have been friends for over thirty years, ever since Lou decided to claim the chair next to Zoe in class at senior school, and they've been there for each other ever since, through all the highs and lows of marriage and having children, Zoe has three teenage children and Lou has a five year old and one less than a year old. Then tragedy strikes when, after a night out, Lou and her husband Rich are killed in a road traffic accident and newly divorced Zoe is called upon to fulfil a promise she made to Lou many years earlier, as guardian to her two godchildren, Phoebe and Zack, she agreed to take them and look after them as part of her existing family, should anything happen and obviously Zoe will not go back on that promise. As they all start to get used to this new life, Zoe begins to uncover things about her best friend that she wasn't aware of, secrets that could have far reaching consequences on the future of her family, did she ever really know her best friend at all?
A Mother's Second Chance is the latest novel by this author, told across two timelines; past and present. It's a heartwarming and, at times, emotional story of friendship and how we take for granted that those friends are always going to be there so, when tragedy strikes and we know that nothing is ever going to be the same again, it's a wake up call that life is precious and should be treated as such. This story involves the moral dilemma of agreeing to take on someone else's family and I imagine anyone that agrees to that never thinks it will ever happen, would you keep that promise? I'd like to think that I would be true to my word if I was ever asked to do it. This is a beautifully written story by a new to me author, which pulled at my heartstrings many times and i look forward to reading more of her work.
I'd like to thank HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads and Amazon.
A Mother's Second Chance is the latest novel by this author, told across two timelines; past and present. It's a heartwarming and, at times, emotional story of friendship and how we take for granted that those friends are always going to be there so, when tragedy strikes and we know that nothing is ever going to be the same again, it's a wake up call that life is precious and should be treated as such. This story involves the moral dilemma of agreeing to take on someone else's family and I imagine anyone that agrees to that never thinks it will ever happen, would you keep that promise? I'd like to think that I would be true to my word if I was ever asked to do it. This is a beautifully written story by a new to me author, which pulled at my heartstrings many times and i look forward to reading more of her work.
I'd like to thank HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads and Amazon.
January 12, 2026
A Mother’s Second Chance is one of those quietly devastating novels that sneaks up on you. From the very first chapters, I felt completely immersed in Zoe Henry’s grief after the sudden loss of her best friend, Lou. Lefebve writes grief in a way that feels painfully real messy, exhausting, and often pushed aside because life doesn’t stop when your heart breaks. Zoe being named guardian to Lou’s two children is not framed as a noble or easy choice, but as an overwhelming responsibility that she never asked for, which made her journey feel deeply human.
What I loved most was how the story handled second chances. Zoe isn’t a young woman starting over; her own children are grown, and she was just beginning to reclaim her independence. Watching her navigate sleepless nights, school runs, and moments of unexpected laughter with the children felt incredibly authentic. The slow shift from obligation to love was beautifully done, and I found myself genuinely rooting for this fragile, newly formed family. There were scenes of quiet tenderness that stayed with me long after I put the book down.
The secret Zoe uncovers in Lou’s house adds a powerful layer of tension and emotional complexity. It forces Zoe to re-examine not only her best friend, but her own fears about loss and belonging. Rather than relying on dramatic twists for shock value, Lefebve uses the revelation to deepen the emotional stakes, making the ending all the more satisfying and heartfelt.
Overall, A Mother’s Second Chance is an emotional, compassionate story about love that doesn’t arrive how or when you expect it. It broke my heart in places, but it also offered warmth, hope, and a reminder that family can be built in the most unexpected ways. Fans of emotional, character driven fiction will find this a truly rewarding read.
What I loved most was how the story handled second chances. Zoe isn’t a young woman starting over; her own children are grown, and she was just beginning to reclaim her independence. Watching her navigate sleepless nights, school runs, and moments of unexpected laughter with the children felt incredibly authentic. The slow shift from obligation to love was beautifully done, and I found myself genuinely rooting for this fragile, newly formed family. There were scenes of quiet tenderness that stayed with me long after I put the book down.
The secret Zoe uncovers in Lou’s house adds a powerful layer of tension and emotional complexity. It forces Zoe to re-examine not only her best friend, but her own fears about loss and belonging. Rather than relying on dramatic twists for shock value, Lefebve uses the revelation to deepen the emotional stakes, making the ending all the more satisfying and heartfelt.
Overall, A Mother’s Second Chance is an emotional, compassionate story about love that doesn’t arrive how or when you expect it. It broke my heart in places, but it also offered warmth, hope, and a reminder that family can be built in the most unexpected ways. Fans of emotional, character driven fiction will find this a truly rewarding read.
October 11, 2025
The title is absolutely ridiculously unnecessarily long.
When best friends grow up and couple up, they affirm their connection by asking each other to be godparents to eventual children, or eventually, to be become guardians in the event that the worst happens.
Zoe is devastated. She never dreamed that she would find herself in her 40s, a freshly divorced mother of three children ages 20, 17 and 14, sitting in a lawyer's office accepting responsibility for her best friend's children. Lou and Rich were killed instantly in a car wreck, that orphaned their 5yr old daughter Phoebe, and 6month old Zack. It wasn't that long ago when a then pregnant Lou asked Zoe and Mike if they would agree to be guardians to her kids if something terrible happened.
Now an overwhelmed Zoe is starting to spiral. How can she do this on her own, with no best friend to turn to, and no husband to share the load? Except, Robyn is proving to be a wonderful, reliable friend, and ex-husband Mike finally starts to demonstrate that he understands how to share the parenting load, with time and availability. As they go through the remains of Lou and Rich's life, Zoe discovers that her best friend kept so many secrets from her, and left her with zero details of how she wanted her children to be raised.
Slowly Zoe's life resets to a new normal and she finally starts to feel like she can see a way forward with her little charges, she makes a discovery that could upend her life once again.
This is a nicely written book about making your way forward in the face of unimaginable loss, and how to accept help and love and how to advocate for yourself and what you need.
When best friends grow up and couple up, they affirm their connection by asking each other to be godparents to eventual children, or eventually, to be become guardians in the event that the worst happens.
Zoe is devastated. She never dreamed that she would find herself in her 40s, a freshly divorced mother of three children ages 20, 17 and 14, sitting in a lawyer's office accepting responsibility for her best friend's children. Lou and Rich were killed instantly in a car wreck, that orphaned their 5yr old daughter Phoebe, and 6month old Zack. It wasn't that long ago when a then pregnant Lou asked Zoe and Mike if they would agree to be guardians to her kids if something terrible happened.
Now an overwhelmed Zoe is starting to spiral. How can she do this on her own, with no best friend to turn to, and no husband to share the load? Except, Robyn is proving to be a wonderful, reliable friend, and ex-husband Mike finally starts to demonstrate that he understands how to share the parenting load, with time and availability. As they go through the remains of Lou and Rich's life, Zoe discovers that her best friend kept so many secrets from her, and left her with zero details of how she wanted her children to be raised.
Slowly Zoe's life resets to a new normal and she finally starts to feel like she can see a way forward with her little charges, she makes a discovery that could upend her life once again.
This is a nicely written book about making your way forward in the face of unimaginable loss, and how to accept help and love and how to advocate for yourself and what you need.
December 27, 2025
Thank you to Harper Collins and One More Chapter for my copy in exchange for a review.
Wow I’ve been through all of the emotions with this amazing story! From a terrible family tragedy, blossoms a heartwarming story of hope, love, and appreciation for what really matters.
Zoe’s best friend Lou and her husband are killed in a car accident, and Zoe becomes guardian of their two children - 5-year-old Phoebe and baby Zack. And now, recently divorced and full-time vet Zoe, whose own 3 children are now teenagers, finds herself with the unexpected responsibility of two children who desperately need her for everything.
Whilst she starts to create a new normal for the whole family, Zoe finds some clues that Lou had a big secret she was hiding from everyone, even her best friend. And she becomes obsessed with finding out, and knowing whether she ever really knew the real Lou.
This was so beautifully written. With the flashbacks to Zoe and Lou’s school days where they first became friends and had their first boyfriends, to the less happy memories of their friendship, and Zoe’s changing feelings about her ex-husband as a partner and a dad, I felt so immersed in Zoe’s world and desperately wanted her to be happy!
Wow I’ve been through all of the emotions with this amazing story! From a terrible family tragedy, blossoms a heartwarming story of hope, love, and appreciation for what really matters.
Zoe’s best friend Lou and her husband are killed in a car accident, and Zoe becomes guardian of their two children - 5-year-old Phoebe and baby Zack. And now, recently divorced and full-time vet Zoe, whose own 3 children are now teenagers, finds herself with the unexpected responsibility of two children who desperately need her for everything.
Whilst she starts to create a new normal for the whole family, Zoe finds some clues that Lou had a big secret she was hiding from everyone, even her best friend. And she becomes obsessed with finding out, and knowing whether she ever really knew the real Lou.
This was so beautifully written. With the flashbacks to Zoe and Lou’s school days where they first became friends and had their first boyfriends, to the less happy memories of their friendship, and Zoe’s changing feelings about her ex-husband as a partner and a dad, I felt so immersed in Zoe’s world and desperately wanted her to be happy!
November 21, 2025
A Mother's Second Chance melted my heart into a puddle with its gorgeous prose, insight into human nature (especially grief), and the intensity of a mother's unconditional love. My heart felt heavy for the characters grappling with pain and rejoiced as the beautiful story unfurled. It was easy to become invested and caught up in their lives.
Zoe is a divorced mother of three teens and a veterinarian when she receives the crushing news that her best friend Lou and her husband are killed in an accident. She immediately becomes the guardian of two lovely young godchildren as a result. The novel is about navigating life with her biological children and new children while suffering tremendous sorrow. Zoe's friend's daughter is old enough to ask for her parents and Zoe is determined to love her the best way she can. But there are also betrayals, old and new love, difficult decisions, hope, and secrets.
I love how realistic and raw the characters, emotions, and events are. Sensitive topics are managed with grace and care. The story also has soul and twists and turns. A highly enjoyable read! Don't miss it.
Zoe is a divorced mother of three teens and a veterinarian when she receives the crushing news that her best friend Lou and her husband are killed in an accident. She immediately becomes the guardian of two lovely young godchildren as a result. The novel is about navigating life with her biological children and new children while suffering tremendous sorrow. Zoe's friend's daughter is old enough to ask for her parents and Zoe is determined to love her the best way she can. But there are also betrayals, old and new love, difficult decisions, hope, and secrets.
I love how realistic and raw the characters, emotions, and events are. Sensitive topics are managed with grace and care. The story also has soul and twists and turns. A highly enjoyable read! Don't miss it.
December 23, 2025
'A Mother's Second Chance' is the second novel from an author previously unknown to me. After reading this I am definitely looking forward to reading more her work.
Zoe is the protagonist of the story of the emotional upheaval her life undergoes after the death of Lou, her best friend of thirty years. Recently divorced with almost grown up children she suddenly finds herself as guardian of Lou's very young children. With this new direction in her life come so many dilemmas for Zoe and her family to cope with. Will they get resolved?
An emotional beautifully written story that tugged at my heart strings. The characters all feel very realistic and one feels one can empathise with the situations they find themselves in. Recommended if you enjoy a family novel that will draw you in.
With thanks to One More Chapter, Harper Collins, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
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Zoe is the protagonist of the story of the emotional upheaval her life undergoes after the death of Lou, her best friend of thirty years. Recently divorced with almost grown up children she suddenly finds herself as guardian of Lou's very young children. With this new direction in her life come so many dilemmas for Zoe and her family to cope with. Will they get resolved?
An emotional beautifully written story that tugged at my heart strings. The characters all feel very realistic and one feels one can empathise with the situations they find themselves in. Recommended if you enjoy a family novel that will draw you in.
With thanks to One More Chapter, Harper Collins, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...
November 1, 2025
“A Mother’s Second Chance” by Sarah Lefebve was a gripping book about a woman grieving after losing her best friend (and her husband) in a tragic car accident, in which she quickly became the guardians of her two young children. While trying to grieve the lost of her best friend, she’s having to adjust to becoming a mom of two children (an infant and a 5 year old), process her divorce, all while finding out personal information about her best friend she never knew about. She thought she knew be best friend and she thought they shared everything with one another, but it appears that was not the case and after her unexpected death, it all begins to come to light.
“A Mother’s Second Chance” was an incredible read and it got to the point where I didn’t want to stop reading. I needed to know all of the secrets and the biggest secret of them all is a complete bombshell.
Thank you so much NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for the eARC of “A Mother’s Second Chance” by Sarah Lefebve.
“A Mother’s Second Chance” was an incredible read and it got to the point where I didn’t want to stop reading. I needed to know all of the secrets and the biggest secret of them all is a complete bombshell.
Thank you so much NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for the eARC of “A Mother’s Second Chance” by Sarah Lefebve.
December 18, 2025
Friends since the age of 11, Zoe and Lou were very different but close growing up. When Lou tragically and unexpectedly dies in midlife she leaves Zoe her earrings and her two children. Vet Zoe, 43, has teenage and adult children of her own and did not expect to be tying shoelaces for a 5 year old or changing nappies and pureeing food for a nearly one year old again.
This a heartbreaking and heart warming book. I loved the way the childhood to adulthood relationship between the two friends played out throughout the story and the interwoven and building sub plot of Lou and Rich’s relationship. I must mention Zoe, the epitome of a friend, of a mum, of the very meaning of love and commitment. In times of the normality and acceptance of the spectrum of blended families today, this is truly a contemporary, relatable read. The ending made me cry - the promise, the protection, the parenting. A family and friendship focused must read.
This a heartbreaking and heart warming book. I loved the way the childhood to adulthood relationship between the two friends played out throughout the story and the interwoven and building sub plot of Lou and Rich’s relationship. I must mention Zoe, the epitome of a friend, of a mum, of the very meaning of love and commitment. In times of the normality and acceptance of the spectrum of blended families today, this is truly a contemporary, relatable read. The ending made me cry - the promise, the protection, the parenting. A family and friendship focused must read.
December 22, 2025
A Mothers Second Chance comes with a life lesson.. enjoy every single day, hold those you love close & make sure you let them know you love them as you truly never know when it will be the last time.
Zoe & Lou best friends since school, their bond is just as strong as the day they met. Even distance wasn't an obstacle when they had each other at the end of the phone for support & to tell each other everything. Or at least thats what Zoe thought.
Zoe is one of the good ones, genuine, honest, committed, strong, determined, kind etc etc so I absolutely admired her part in this story. Even when she was sacrificing herself & her job. [ trying not to share too much here ]
The story is real, relatable full of human flaws and mistakes, learning curves & forgiveness. It was so brilliantly written too. Filled with love, feelings & emotions its a must read for sure.
Thank you to Harper Collins for a copy of the book.
Zoe & Lou best friends since school, their bond is just as strong as the day they met. Even distance wasn't an obstacle when they had each other at the end of the phone for support & to tell each other everything. Or at least thats what Zoe thought.
Zoe is one of the good ones, genuine, honest, committed, strong, determined, kind etc etc so I absolutely admired her part in this story. Even when she was sacrificing herself & her job. [ trying not to share too much here ]
The story is real, relatable full of human flaws and mistakes, learning curves & forgiveness. It was so brilliantly written too. Filled with love, feelings & emotions its a must read for sure.
Thank you to Harper Collins for a copy of the book.
October 26, 2025
Zoe tragically loses her best friend and her best friends husband in a car accident. She gains the custody of her friends two very young children who are now orphans. Life is bitter sweet in Zoe’s household with her older children and her estranged husband helping to look after the children where they can life and is busy. However her friend of 30 years had secrets and one by one Zoe begins to unravel her friends secret life. “ you think you know someone and how they live their lives but when all is said and done you really know very little about your best friends life”. An interesting easy to read book. Emotional at times with an air of mystery.
4 stars
November 20, 2025
A Mother’s Second Chance by Sarah Lefebve is such a heart-warming, emotionally rich read. I ran through a whole spectrum of feelings while following this story.
What do you do when your best friend and her husband tragically die, and that hypothetical question she asked you years ago suddenly becomes your new reality?
I wasn’t sure how the book would sustain its momentum at first- after all, there’s only so much you can write about taking guardianship of your godchildren but Sarah manages it beautifully. She layers in secrets that unfold at just the right moments, all while capturing the complicated mix of grief, love, and responsibility. Watching Zoe navigate her own loss while trying to support her godchildren made the story feel both heartfelt and very human.
What do you do when your best friend and her husband tragically die, and that hypothetical question she asked you years ago suddenly becomes your new reality?
I wasn’t sure how the book would sustain its momentum at first- after all, there’s only so much you can write about taking guardianship of your godchildren but Sarah manages it beautifully. She layers in secrets that unfold at just the right moments, all while capturing the complicated mix of grief, love, and responsibility. Watching Zoe navigate her own loss while trying to support her godchildren made the story feel both heartfelt and very human.
October 18, 2025
'A Mother's Second Chance' is an emotional roller coaster of a read. Zoe, newly divorced with 3 teenage children is named as legal guardian to 2 young children when their parents die in a car crash. It will tug at your heart strings as Zoe juggles homelife, work and new parental responsibilities whilst grieving the loss of her best friend. Zoe's heart breaks all over again when she discovers Lou had kept secrets from her. It's a really well written novel about family, friendship, loss and love. Thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for granting me an early read.
December 10, 2025
This was a delight to read. Written beautifully and perfectly paced. This book explores family, friendship, love, loss….and gain. Asking the question, do you ever really know someone fully? Even if you’ve known them your whole life.
I was drawn into the storyline immediately and I read this book in one day.
I loved the character development and dynamic.
There is a mystery to be solved and I enjoyed trying to figure it out whilst walking through heartbreak and hope.
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins and One More Chapter for this ARC.
I was drawn into the storyline immediately and I read this book in one day.
I loved the character development and dynamic.
There is a mystery to be solved and I enjoyed trying to figure it out whilst walking through heartbreak and hope.
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins and One More Chapter for this ARC.
December 13, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for Goodreads
First, I would like to thank the author and NetGalley for the free ebook in exchange for my honest review.
This book is so much more than I expected. It had me thinking about all kinds of relationships: friendship, romantic, mother/child...and how there are so many different ways that these relationships look. It is a book that will stick with me for some time to come. I will be reminded to think of what's actually important. I have so much more to say, but I think the best part of reading this book was having no idea where it was going.
First, I would like to thank the author and NetGalley for the free ebook in exchange for my honest review.
This book is so much more than I expected. It had me thinking about all kinds of relationships: friendship, romantic, mother/child...and how there are so many different ways that these relationships look. It is a book that will stick with me for some time to come. I will be reminded to think of what's actually important. I have so much more to say, but I think the best part of reading this book was having no idea where it was going.
December 19, 2025
A heartbreaking read about a woman’s who’s life is changed forever when overnight she has to take one responsibility for her best friends children after a tragic accident. She thought her days of nappies and tantrums was over but now she must step up for the best friend she ever knew but as she struggles with life on her own this time round and without her friend is she strong enough to take this all on. I loved this book it’s very raw and honest and I would hope my friends would be so selfless to step up like this if I needed to!
December 30, 2025
Oh my days! This book is perfect if you want that emotional feel good story that will melt, break and restart your heart all at once.
I binged this in one sitting, I had to know what would happen to this new family and what the hell secrets Lou had!! This story really proved how much lives can be changed over night AND that you never really know someone.
I adored Zoe, such a fantastic character and the definition of a true friend (unlike Lou) I loved hearing about her younger years and the bonds she had with those around her. I couldn’t warm to Lou at all, especially when more of her revelations began to unfold, karma certainly got it’s own back!
This is a must read and needs to be added to your TBR immediately ❤️.
I binged this in one sitting, I had to know what would happen to this new family and what the hell secrets Lou had!! This story really proved how much lives can be changed over night AND that you never really know someone.
I adored Zoe, such a fantastic character and the definition of a true friend (unlike Lou) I loved hearing about her younger years and the bonds she had with those around her. I couldn’t warm to Lou at all, especially when more of her revelations began to unfold, karma certainly got it’s own back!
This is a must read and needs to be added to your TBR immediately ❤️.
November 12, 2025
This was a great read, when Zoe’s friends dies in a car accident, she’s now the guardian of two children. The story tangled through the ups and downs with the struggle of reading two small children again, working full time and keeping it all together. I really enjoyed the plot and the characters, they were perfect for this book. They drew you in and kept you engrossed in the read. A brilliant 5 star read. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.
October 30, 2025
After the tragic death of her best friend Zoe has been named as guardian to her two young children.
She is finding it difficult to cope with her loss and also needs help with looking after the children so she asked her ex husband to help.
A story about grief and acceptance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
She is finding it difficult to cope with her loss and also needs help with looking after the children so she asked her ex husband to help.
A story about grief and acceptance.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2025
Wow.
This story is rich with emotion and life experiences that no-one would ever ask for. The author is skilled in bringing us into Zoe’s world and mind, with our hearts breaking in her descriptions of the life that chose her.
A beautiful read about grief, friendship, love, loss, parenting and redemption.
Looking forward to reading more from this author!
This story is rich with emotion and life experiences that no-one would ever ask for. The author is skilled in bringing us into Zoe’s world and mind, with our hearts breaking in her descriptions of the life that chose her.
A beautiful read about grief, friendship, love, loss, parenting and redemption.
Looking forward to reading more from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A heartwarming read that centres around friendship, love and second chances. When Zoe’s children are grown up she is looking forward to rekindling her own life. What she hasn’t thought about is becoming a mother again. At the loss of her best friend she becomes the children’s guardian and her role as a mother takes on a new dimension. An emotional read.
December 12, 2025
This heart warming and emotional book was told in two time zones - alternating between the past, giving background information and the present.
The plot was very well thought out and executed. The characters were very realistic.
Love, friendship, second chances and secrets all combined to make this an enjoyable read.
3.5 stars
The plot was very well thought out and executed. The characters were very realistic.
Love, friendship, second chances and secrets all combined to make this an enjoyable read.
3.5 stars
December 23, 2025
What a page turner! Heartbreaking and heartwarming in turns, this story presents a moral conundrum for Zoe Henry after she is awarded guardianship of her best friend’s children after the friend and her husband die in a car crash. But one of the children may have a different father and Zoe has a choice to make about the future.
January 19, 2026
This was a different genre of fiction for me, but I heard about it as the author is local (Hampshire) and was pleased to see it on NetGalley. It was a really enjoyable read.
The story follows a divorced woman who has three older children whose best friend tragically dies with her husband in a car crash. As nominated guardian / godmother, she steps in to look after the young children, who are now orphans, with the impacts you would expect on their relationships, her own children, her job, and her overall life. The story follows this significant change, as well as the protagonist learning more about her best friend's hidden life which creates some gentle twists and turns in the book.
My thanks go to Sara Lefebve, Harper Collins and NetGalley for this ARC in return for an honest review.
The story follows a divorced woman who has three older children whose best friend tragically dies with her husband in a car crash. As nominated guardian / godmother, she steps in to look after the young children, who are now orphans, with the impacts you would expect on their relationships, her own children, her job, and her overall life. The story follows this significant change, as well as the protagonist learning more about her best friend's hidden life which creates some gentle twists and turns in the book.
My thanks go to Sara Lefebve, Harper Collins and NetGalley for this ARC in return for an honest review.
December 12, 2025
Moving and heartwarming. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read an ARC.
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