What do you think?
Rate this book
Second Chances
It's never too late for second chances...
For the first time in her life, Lydia is taking a great big leap of faith. She's moving to a small town on the West Coast of Ireland to overhaul a large, long-abandoned residence named Chance House with her new husband.
Then tragedy strikes, and Lydia is reminded why she doesn't take chances. Suddenly she's facing a very different a half-finished ramshackle estate, an overgrown garden, dwindling funds, no-one to turn to - and everywhere she looks, reminders of the love she's lost.
Starting over feels impossible. Staying put feels harder still. But when the local community rallies around her and Lydia is unexpectedly reminded of the power of new beginnings, she realises she might just owe it to herself and them to take a second chance on Chance House...
From the Irish bestseller comes a brand-new, heart-breaking yet hopeful read about the importance of community and the power of starting over - perfect for fans of Lucy Diamond, Cathy Bramley and Jill Mansell.
For the first time in her life, Lydia is taking a great big leap of faith. She's moving to a small town on the West Coast of Ireland to overhaul a large, long-abandoned residence named Chance House with her new husband.
Then tragedy strikes, and Lydia is reminded why she doesn't take chances. Suddenly she's facing a very different a half-finished ramshackle estate, an overgrown garden, dwindling funds, no-one to turn to - and everywhere she looks, reminders of the love she's lost.
Starting over feels impossible. Staying put feels harder still. But when the local community rallies around her and Lydia is unexpectedly reminded of the power of new beginnings, she realises she might just owe it to herself and them to take a second chance on Chance House...
From the Irish bestseller comes a brand-new, heart-breaking yet hopeful read about the importance of community and the power of starting over - perfect for fans of Lucy Diamond, Cathy Bramley and Jill Mansell.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2026
About the author
Roisin Meaney
43 books401 followersBorn on 3rd September.
A published author of twenty books for adults and three for children, Roisin worked as an advertising copywriter for a number of years, and brings a vast amount of experience to the editing team. Her first novel, The Daisy Picker, won a Write a Bestseller competition. Her third novel, The Last Week of May reached number one on the Irish bestseller list and her fourth, The People Next Door reached number two. Her books have been translated into several languages, and two, Semi-Sweet and Life Drawing for Beginners, have been published in the US. She is currently working on her next book, which is scheduled for publication in autumn 2023. She is also plotting another children's book - shhhhh.
A published author of twenty books for adults and three for children, Roisin worked as an advertising copywriter for a number of years, and brings a vast amount of experience to the editing team. Her first novel, The Daisy Picker, won a Write a Bestseller competition. Her third novel, The Last Week of May reached number one on the Irish bestseller list and her fourth, The People Next Door reached number two. Her books have been translated into several languages, and two, Semi-Sweet and Life Drawing for Beginners, have been published in the US. She is currently working on her next book, which is scheduled for publication in autumn 2023. She is also plotting another children's book - shhhhh.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
February 5, 2026
Second Chances by Roisin Meaney (February 5th, Hachette Ireland) is described as ‘a heart-breaking yet hopeful read about the importance of community and the power of starting over'.
Lydia, following a heartbreaking event, has to make some life-altering decisions but choosing the right one proves to be challenging. We are all given numerous opportunities in life to take chances but sometimes our fear creates an obstacle, stopping us in our tracks. As Lydia discovers, the power of the community and her own inbuilt resilience, prove a strong combination as she negotiates some very difficult but empowering months in a small community on the west coast of Ireland.
Lydia has always lived in the city. A Dublin girl, she followed her dream of becoming a yoga instructor, with a solid client base and a great circle of friends. On a night out she crosses paths with Damien, a chef from a small seaside village on the west coast. The chemistry is instant and a weekend relationship ensues. Lydia knows that her feelings for Damien are strong and she begins to fanaticize about a life by the sea for the two of them so, when Damien actually proposes she is ecstatic. He surprises her further with a suggestion that they put in an offer on an old derelict property, Chance House. Here they could begin a new life, build a business together and start their own family someday.
Lydia was new to village but, from the beginning, the community welcomed her with open arms allowing her to dream big and to get excited about the possibility of what might be. But one ordinary day the bubble bursts when tragedy strikes, shattering Lydia’s life into smithereens. This ambitious undertaking had been Damien’s vision. He could see the bigger picture, coping with the financial investment and all the stress that this life project would carry but now, Lydia is not so sure.
As Lydia grapples with a different future she has to make choices which will not only affect herself but will also have ripple effects on the wider community. Lydia is emotionally strung out, exhausted by the life she now lives but little glimmers appear as the locals gather around offering their love and support. Lydia has always known her place in life and the routine of Dublin suited her. Now, in this new space, she is discovering that taking a chance can sometimes lead to the most extraordinary and unexpected outcome.
Second Chances is a novel of mixed emotions. There is plenty of heartache but hidden among the anguish are little sparks of hope. Choosing a different and unexpected path can have all sorts of connotations. Things don’t always go according to plan, with the stars not necessarily aligning as we would like, but if we are willing to step off the plotted path, who knows what is waiting for us around the corner.
Authenticity is what keeps Roisin Meaney fans, including myself, coming back for more. As a writer, her stories bring a sense of calm to a world that is currently in such flux. With beautiful characters and gorgeous storylines, one cannot help but feel a weight temporarily lifting as you lose yourself between the covers. Second Chances is a story about ordinary people but, in the hands of Roisin Meaney, these ordinary people become your friends. You cry their tears, you join in their laughter and you hold their hands when needed. Wholesome and full of heart, Second Chances is a bittersweet novel. It is a sincere and tender story of love in all its many guises, another warm hug of a novel from Roisin Meaney.
Lydia, following a heartbreaking event, has to make some life-altering decisions but choosing the right one proves to be challenging. We are all given numerous opportunities in life to take chances but sometimes our fear creates an obstacle, stopping us in our tracks. As Lydia discovers, the power of the community and her own inbuilt resilience, prove a strong combination as she negotiates some very difficult but empowering months in a small community on the west coast of Ireland.
Lydia has always lived in the city. A Dublin girl, she followed her dream of becoming a yoga instructor, with a solid client base and a great circle of friends. On a night out she crosses paths with Damien, a chef from a small seaside village on the west coast. The chemistry is instant and a weekend relationship ensues. Lydia knows that her feelings for Damien are strong and she begins to fanaticize about a life by the sea for the two of them so, when Damien actually proposes she is ecstatic. He surprises her further with a suggestion that they put in an offer on an old derelict property, Chance House. Here they could begin a new life, build a business together and start their own family someday.
Lydia was new to village but, from the beginning, the community welcomed her with open arms allowing her to dream big and to get excited about the possibility of what might be. But one ordinary day the bubble bursts when tragedy strikes, shattering Lydia’s life into smithereens. This ambitious undertaking had been Damien’s vision. He could see the bigger picture, coping with the financial investment and all the stress that this life project would carry but now, Lydia is not so sure.
As Lydia grapples with a different future she has to make choices which will not only affect herself but will also have ripple effects on the wider community. Lydia is emotionally strung out, exhausted by the life she now lives but little glimmers appear as the locals gather around offering their love and support. Lydia has always known her place in life and the routine of Dublin suited her. Now, in this new space, she is discovering that taking a chance can sometimes lead to the most extraordinary and unexpected outcome.
Second Chances is a novel of mixed emotions. There is plenty of heartache but hidden among the anguish are little sparks of hope. Choosing a different and unexpected path can have all sorts of connotations. Things don’t always go according to plan, with the stars not necessarily aligning as we would like, but if we are willing to step off the plotted path, who knows what is waiting for us around the corner.
Authenticity is what keeps Roisin Meaney fans, including myself, coming back for more. As a writer, her stories bring a sense of calm to a world that is currently in such flux. With beautiful characters and gorgeous storylines, one cannot help but feel a weight temporarily lifting as you lose yourself between the covers. Second Chances is a story about ordinary people but, in the hands of Roisin Meaney, these ordinary people become your friends. You cry their tears, you join in their laughter and you hold their hands when needed. Wholesome and full of heart, Second Chances is a bittersweet novel. It is a sincere and tender story of love in all its many guises, another warm hug of a novel from Roisin Meaney.
February 20, 2026
Meaney has a wonderfully warm and immersive writing style. Second Chances has a bittersweet start, and readers are positioned immediately alongside Lydia as her world is pulled out from under her.
Overall though, this is a hopeful and reflective read, with a gentle cadence. Lydia’s journey through grief, feels authentic, and I loved the healing her small community provides her. I found myself reading with curiosity and delight, and I loved the more meandering nature of Lydia’s journey of self discovery. It’s a beautiful reminder that life after loss isn’t linear but ebbs and flows.
This is my second of Meaney’s books, and I’ll be excitedly anticipating their next. Thank you to the publisher for an advance copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
Overall though, this is a hopeful and reflective read, with a gentle cadence. Lydia’s journey through grief, feels authentic, and I loved the healing her small community provides her. I found myself reading with curiosity and delight, and I loved the more meandering nature of Lydia’s journey of self discovery. It’s a beautiful reminder that life after loss isn’t linear but ebbs and flows.
This is my second of Meaney’s books, and I’ll be excitedly anticipating their next. Thank you to the publisher for an advance copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
April 20, 2026
I've written two reviews but they are not being accepted.
I'll try again.
This keeps happening with my Goodreads reviews, I write it/type it and send it but it disappears and is not accepted.
This was such a good book, a really enjoyable book. Lovely characters, especially Lydia. It's a really well told story. It was so very sad at times. I was in tears reading about her being in labour alone without her husband, that was very sad.
I'll certainly continue to read anything else by Roisin Meaney, she is a very good writer
I'll try again.
This keeps happening with my Goodreads reviews, I write it/type it and send it but it disappears and is not accepted.
This was such a good book, a really enjoyable book. Lovely characters, especially Lydia. It's a really well told story. It was so very sad at times. I was in tears reading about her being in labour alone without her husband, that was very sad.
I'll certainly continue to read anything else by Roisin Meaney, she is a very good writer
May 1, 2026
An emotional book about a woman who moves to her partner’s village, in Ireland, to reclaim a run down old house. Trigger warning, there is a death and mention of a historical death of a baby. Both are dealt with with care. It’s hard to explain more without spoilers, if you are concerned I can see others explain the main death so you could check out other reviews if you want more information. I did think there was going to be a description of a domestic violence relationship but, for me, I think it was more of an emotionally abusive relationship which again threatened peril but I was glad it didn’t take a more difficult turn.
I felt the death was forewarned and I can’t work out if it was the writing changing or just a sense of impending doom but for a little bit I thought I might stop reading as I felt quite agitated. I kept going though and I am glad I did. The book’s twists and turns and the relationships the protagonist develops were really interesting. I loved the number of female relationships, yes there were male ones but multiple female relationships in a book just makes my heart sing.
I loved the Priest and Greta, the latter was so direct and yet so giving. The whole sense of a community coming together was a joy. The home itself was definitely another character, sometimes I felt it was the main character for me. 🏡Towards the end I was scared there was going to be too much jeopardy for me but everything was handled so well. I found, for me, it was a book I could read just before I fell asleep and I could imagine myself at Chance house and it felt just a beautiful, calm place.
Some characters annoyed me and I did like that the author was not afraid to make her characters to have their own issues. I did think the protagonist’s partner was maybe too perfect and yet I do know some people can very much be like that. I was worried about how she could end the book but I feel she handled it in a sensitive manner, the protagonist is very young and I think whilst the author hints at the future you can imagine your own time scale and outcomes. I would definitely read a second book if one was written and I would so love to visit Chance house and the village it’s set in. It makes me want to visit Ireland again.
I am going to follow the author. It’s only recently that I have been able to start reading again and finding someone who has written a lot of books is such a joy. If you enjoy books about relationships and how people adapt to what life throws at them this is such a warm hearted book, which is mostly cozy and relaxing with some grief and peril thrown in. Sounds like life.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this book for my consideration, this is all my own rambling, honest and personal opinion.
I felt the death was forewarned and I can’t work out if it was the writing changing or just a sense of impending doom but for a little bit I thought I might stop reading as I felt quite agitated. I kept going though and I am glad I did. The book’s twists and turns and the relationships the protagonist develops were really interesting. I loved the number of female relationships, yes there were male ones but multiple female relationships in a book just makes my heart sing.
I loved the Priest and Greta, the latter was so direct and yet so giving. The whole sense of a community coming together was a joy. The home itself was definitely another character, sometimes I felt it was the main character for me. 🏡Towards the end I was scared there was going to be too much jeopardy for me but everything was handled so well. I found, for me, it was a book I could read just before I fell asleep and I could imagine myself at Chance house and it felt just a beautiful, calm place.
Some characters annoyed me and I did like that the author was not afraid to make her characters to have their own issues. I did think the protagonist’s partner was maybe too perfect and yet I do know some people can very much be like that. I was worried about how she could end the book but I feel she handled it in a sensitive manner, the protagonist is very young and I think whilst the author hints at the future you can imagine your own time scale and outcomes. I would definitely read a second book if one was written and I would so love to visit Chance house and the village it’s set in. It makes me want to visit Ireland again.
I am going to follow the author. It’s only recently that I have been able to start reading again and finding someone who has written a lot of books is such a joy. If you enjoy books about relationships and how people adapt to what life throws at them this is such a warm hearted book, which is mostly cozy and relaxing with some grief and peril thrown in. Sounds like life.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this book for my consideration, this is all my own rambling, honest and personal opinion.
March 6, 2026
When I started this book, I did not pay attention to the blurb. I usually read the blurb when I first acquire a book to place on my bookshelf. It's only once the chapter started moving I felt an inkling of what's to come and I was not sure how ready I was to take it on!
Lydia is used to big city living. A chance encounter led to a relationship that moved faster than either anticipated. It also leads to a wedding in an unfinished room in a house filled with dreams. Unfortunately things don't go as planned -the worst comes to pass and Lydia is left scrambling.
The small close knit town comes together to help in their own way. Things slowly start to start making sense.
There's just one part of the second chances that I find a little uncomfortable, given the timing, but I guess it's the choice of the author on how to include certain characters and maybe I am in the minority when it comes to the reaction.
This story is all about found families as well as building bridges of understanding with actual families. I find the writing and pacing quite a joy to read, even with the sad incidents. I would definitely recommend this book to fans of the genre and to anyone who finds the idea of second chances (and the blurb) interesting.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
Lydia is used to big city living. A chance encounter led to a relationship that moved faster than either anticipated. It also leads to a wedding in an unfinished room in a house filled with dreams. Unfortunately things don't go as planned -the worst comes to pass and Lydia is left scrambling.
The small close knit town comes together to help in their own way. Things slowly start to start making sense.
There's just one part of the second chances that I find a little uncomfortable, given the timing, but I guess it's the choice of the author on how to include certain characters and maybe I am in the minority when it comes to the reaction.
This story is all about found families as well as building bridges of understanding with actual families. I find the writing and pacing quite a joy to read, even with the sad incidents. I would definitely recommend this book to fans of the genre and to anyone who finds the idea of second chances (and the blurb) interesting.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
May 13, 2026
This wonderful book starts off as Lydia and Damien meet and fall in love. Lydia decides to leave her city life and head to the west coast of Ireland to Damien’s home village. They both fall in love with an abandoned residence called Change House.
Lydia struggles with her new surroundings but with Damien by her side, they dream of new beginnings, , renovating the dilapidated house with the vision of them both starting new businesses sharing each of their talents with others.
Tragedy strikes and Lydia’s future is turned upside down . Her plans and dreams are shattered without warning. What will she do now? Her heart and head are in constant battle with each other as she explores the possibilities.
This book is filled with so much human emotion. Pain , fear and joy in equal measure. . The sense of community is explored so well. The saying it takes a village to raise a child came to my mind. Starting over is one of the most difficult things we face in life but I loved how this book showed how it is possible if we are willing to try .
Lydia struggles with her new surroundings but with Damien by her side, they dream of new beginnings, , renovating the dilapidated house with the vision of them both starting new businesses sharing each of their talents with others.
Tragedy strikes and Lydia’s future is turned upside down . Her plans and dreams are shattered without warning. What will she do now? Her heart and head are in constant battle with each other as she explores the possibilities.
This book is filled with so much human emotion. Pain , fear and joy in equal measure. . The sense of community is explored so well. The saying it takes a village to raise a child came to my mind. Starting over is one of the most difficult things we face in life but I loved how this book showed how it is possible if we are willing to try .
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely love Roisin Meaney's books and Second Chances is no exception. From the very first word you feel you're part of whatever is going on. In this case a young couple's life and the sudden unexpected changes that life can have in store. Lydia is a city girl who is taken in by a village after life deals her a cruel blow. They slowly bring her back to life without her realising it. The way the author writes pulls at the heartstrings and brought me to tears on several occasions without being overly sentimental. A lovely read I'm happy to recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
April 5, 2026
3.5🌟
I know that the book is not about heroine's marriage but frankly, with how little was put into showing their relationship i was sad because it was told she was sad and not because he died. But because of it it didn’t feel like she lost someone important rather it was told/implied that she did.
The story was told by jumping from scene to scene so it was hard to immediately understand how much if any time had past between it.
I also have a bone to pick..or a few: 1) "I'm a vegetarian but i drink regular wine"? Well, regular wine isn't vegetarian, so...
2) Since when do newborn kittens purr?
Overall, i liked it. It’s a sad situation to think about.
I know that the book is not about heroine's marriage but frankly, with how little was put into showing their relationship i was sad because it was told she was sad and not because he died. But because of it it didn’t feel like she lost someone important rather it was told/implied that she did.
The story was told by jumping from scene to scene so it was hard to immediately understand how much if any time had past between it.
I also have a bone to pick..or a few: 1) "I'm a vegetarian but i drink regular wine"? Well, regular wine isn't vegetarian, so...
2) Since when do newborn kittens purr?
Overall, i liked it. It’s a sad situation to think about.
April 17, 2026
I love Roisin’s books so I knew Second Chances would not disappoint. I enjoyed seeing Lydia grow and progress throughout the book with the help of a mighty and strong community in the village to help bring Chance House to life. The poignancy and sentimentality through the book was just beautiful. It can be a hard read in places, but added to the story.
Loved the surprise twist, it was very satisfying, having read Roisin’s previous book.
Loved the surprise twist, it was very satisfying, having read Roisin’s previous book.
February 5, 2026
Another utterly fantastic book by one of my favourite Irish authors, I started reading this book and became so invested in the story that before I knew it an hour had slipped by. The way Roisin Meaney writes is just fabulous and I feel that I’m there in the story myself, This was another amazing read that made me feel quite emotional at times.
March 22, 2026
Another beautiful novel by Roisin Meaney. I’ve been reading Roisin’s novels for many years and I love her style and creation of every day realistic characters. Life has its ups and downs and we can relate so easily to any of her characters. For those who have read previous books, keep an eye out for the Easter egg towards the end of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received a free copy of, Second Chances, by Roisin Meany, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This book gave me all the feels, I just wanted to hug Lydia, she went through so much in a short period of time. I really enjoyed this book.
April 20, 2026
I love this author’s books and this one is her best in my opinion. With engaging and ‘real’ characters who grow and change as they face difficult times, the book is deeply satisfying and heartwarming.
February 11, 2026
A great read! Had me in tears!
February 25, 2026
I loved this story of Lydia and her tragically short marriage to Damien. Roisin Meaney writes lovely realistic characters and wonderfully close-knit communities.
February 28, 2026
I loved this. Really uplifting with wonderful characters that you wish you knew.
February 28, 2026
Great read Really enjoyed it
March 29, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Read
April 1, 2026I read it in 3 days. Such a heartwarming, page turning book.
April 10, 2026
this book felt the equivalent of drinking a cup of tea, snuggled in a blanket, watching the ocean. a gorgeously woven tale of love, village support and grief. I want to live in this little village ❤️
February 21, 2026
No-one does community like Roisin Meaney!
This book undid me and then put me back together again - it's a story filled with love and kindness, but more than that, in days when a little light goes a long way, here is a book to restore hope in humanity! It's second chances, yes, but so, so much more than that!
This book undid me and then put me back together again - it's a story filled with love and kindness, but more than that, in days when a little light goes a long way, here is a book to restore hope in humanity! It's second chances, yes, but so, so much more than that!
February 16, 2026
Such a great story - got to know the people in the town which really made the story come to life.
February 19, 2026
This maybe my favourite of Roisin Meaney’s books so far. I loved this story, it made me cry and it made me laugh. I loved the character of Lydia. A beautiful story. I didn’t want it to end.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews