The Museum of Second Chances

by Jo Leevers

Every morning, Evelyn Silver walks the shoreline before the rest of Portheast wakes, gathering what the tide leaves behind. Broken cups. Lost trinkets. Objects others have discarded. In her small Museum of Maritime Curiosities, each one earns its place—because to Evelyn, every forgotten thing deserves to have its story told.

At the heart of the museum lies her most precious a fragment of Cornish lace, found pinned to her blanket when she was abandoned as a newborn. For over sixty years, she has kept it close, hoping someone might one day recognise it and tell her who she really is.

So when the local council threatens to close the museum, Evelyn stands to lose far more than her livelihood. Forced out of her solitude, she rallies the community around the museum’s curious collection—and as the objects begin to give up their secrets, lives start to intertwine in ways nobody expected.

Because sometimes, the most precious things aren’t lost at all. They’re simply waiting to be claimed.

Genres: Fiction, Mystery, Historical Fiction, Contemporary, Historical, Ebooks, Adult

357 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2026

About the author

Hello there. My next novel is The Museum of Second Chances, out 1 July. My debut, Tell Me How This Ends, was a BBC Radio 2 Book Club pick, followed by The Last Time I Saw You, all published by Lake Union (Amazon Publishing). In Germany, my books are published by Droemer, as Café Leben and In den Augen Meiner Mutter.
I've also written an interiors book, Victorian Modern, out with Thames & Hudson. You can find me on social media as @joleevers and my website is joleevers.com

Reviews

[Shelley's Book Nook · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Reviews Can Also Be Found On:
The Book Review Crew Blog


⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Museum of Second Chances
Jo Leevers
Publication Date: July 1st, 2026
Amazon Publishing UK | Lake Union Publishing
363 Pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction | Women's Fiction

This was such a great book. The story is about 61-year-old Evelyn, who lives in a coastal town. Every morning, she takes walks looking for unwanted items, smashed china, things people have lost, and other misplaced treasures. She keeps these in a museum known as the Museum of Maritime Curiosities, honestly believing these items deserve to have their stories shared. Evelyn's favourite item is a bit of lace that was left on her blanket when she was abandoned as a baby, and she hopes one day someone will recognise it and solve the mystery of her backstory.

When the local council decides to shut the museum down, Evelyn is forced to get the community together to help her fight to keep it. This ragtag bunch of people become each other's biggest supporters—and Evelyn's—and the secrets of these objects just might be revealed.

This is my first book by the author, and I can't wait to read her backlog. The story was poignant and beautifully written. This is my favourite type of story: "up-lit," which is community-focused with a bit of a mystery and a whole lot of quirkiness. I loved how the author balanced the cozy community vibe with the issue of identity.

Evelyn is a wonderful leading lady. She's a bit of an introvert, and her hobby of finding discarded objects stems from a deep desire to find herself. I enjoyed watching her come out of her shell to fight for the museum, and how she brings the locals along for the ride to fight for the town's heritage.

I didn't miss the subtle way the author writes about family ties, friendship, and the grief we all have. Although it took a few chapters for me to get into the book, the slower pace of the story fits perfectly with the themes, and it never gets too sentimental. This was a heartfelt and uplifting story that reminded me that the things and people we have lost are out there waiting to be found.

The blend of a quirky local museum, a found-family community coming together, and a lifelong personal mystery is the absolute sweet spot for a great up-lit novel. If you love character-driven fiction, as I do, I can highly recommend this one.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very beginning, this novel had a quiet charm that kept me turning the pages. While Evelyn initially seemed to be the heart of the story, I loved how the narrative gradually widened to include other characters, each bringing another piece of the larger picture into focus.

I loved watching each character uncover pieces of their past, with every revelation leading back to Evelyn and the museum in meaningful ways. The character growth was one of my favorite parts of the book, and I appreciated how each person felt fully realized by the end.

The histories behind the museum’s artifacts were woven into the story at the perfect pace—revealing just enough to keep me curious without slowing the momentum. And Evelyn’s transformation was especially rewarding to witness. Seeing her, along with the people around her, find healing, reconnect with their pasts, and embrace new possibilities made for a heartfelt and satisfying ending.

Overall, this was an engaging, uplifting read with memorable characters and a story that will stay with me for a long time to come!

[Srivalli Rekha · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 Stars

One Liner: Slow and deals with too many themes

Evelyn Silver walked the shoreline of Portheast every morning, collecting whatever the tide left behind for her little Museum of Maritime Curiosities. Each piece has a special place, with a story to be told. The central piece of her museum is a fragment of Cornish lace, one that was pinned to her blanket when she was abandoned as a baby over sixty years ago. To date, Evelyn hopes that someone will recognize and tell her about it.

However, the local council threatens to close her museum, and Evelyn knows she will lose more than her livelihood. With help from the community, she tries to rally support to protect her museum. And soon, the objects start to tell their stories.

The book comes in Evelyn and a few other third-person POVs.

My Thoughts

I was quite excited to read this one and hoped for a heartwarming book about second chances, found family, and the power of community. While all these elements are present, the heartwarming part, which is crucial, has been missing for me.

The FMC is not an easy character to like. Grumpy people in their 60s are not a new trope, but not all books get it right. Here, the FMC is passive rather than grumpy, as if things happen to her and she lets them instead of actively doing something about them. I understand introverts. I am one of them. But she is judgmental (a lot, and for no real reason in some instances) and comes across as someone who never allowed herself to grow up.

Even the side characters are judgmental, and after a point, I was more annoyed than amused. J was good, though.

Also, I didn’t expect domestic abuse to be a part of the plot, and it caught me off guard. While it is not graphic, there is enough to weigh you down. And it kinda fizzles afterward.

NGL, I was also hoping for some lighthearted humor, but this is a slow and heavy read. Parental trauma, family trauma, gaslighting, lying, adultery, robbery, forgery, burnout, etc., are some themes you come across in the first half. The second half got better, but the book tackled too many themes at once, dipping its toe into teenage pregnancy and different ways it was resolved (homes, adoption, etc.).

TBH, none of the themes get a fair chance because so many have been crammed into the book. The characters are there, but not fully etched as multiple tracks need space.

Ultimately, it feels less like a story about community and more about ‘truths’ and ‘parental mistakes’. This is fine, but it doesn’t hit the mark either. Also, money is a factor and continues to be. It does solve most problems, doesn’t it?

To summarize, The Museum of Second Chances tries hard, but ultimately, I couldn’t connect with the characters or with the developments. The only thing I felt was relief when the book finally ended. Do check other reviews, though. I’m on the Outliner Island.

Thank you, NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

#NetGalley #TheMuseumOfSecondChances

[Jenée · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really beautiful and well told story. Initially, I wasn’t sure what to make of Evelyn. She’s quirky antisocial very withdrawn, and I wasn’t sure if she could hold the story. The nice thing is a story is not just about her. It also centers around people in her community and that some of the items that she holds in her museum have a history tied to them. What I really enjoyed the most was how the author gave each person their own individual story and told it in a way that was thoughtful and meaningful.

I received this as a e-Arc in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher.

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a masterfully written book, I had trouble putting it down to go to bed. Our first meeting of Evelyn I wasn’t sure what to make of her, and I was surprised at first when we started getting perspectives & storylines for characters other than her. Over the course of the book though we get to learn who they all are now, and get to follow along as they make discoveries about their pasts, all of which tie back to Evelyn and her museum.

The histories of the museum pieces were told so wonderfully, at just the right pace to keep you hooked, and to let the characters learn & grow. I absolutely loved seeing how Evelyn changes and blooms by the end of the book. Seeing she and her friends getting a chance to reconnect with their pasts, and change their futures for the better, had me on the edge of my seat at times, literally gasping out loud and even crying a bit. I highly recommend this book.

I received a free e-ARC and am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.

[Vanessa Sumner · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I began a review of this book about how tired I am of every single book I read having violence against women in it, I would never finish the review. I would like a solitary book that doesn’t have violence against women or homophobia to be written in my lifetime. I’m kind of at a breaking point here. I don’t want all women and queer experiences to be marred by male violence.
But the book was great. Distinct characters, great plot, careful plot planning, a wee, wee bit of romance. It’s all there. I’m glad this was on offer for First Reads

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

just ok

It was ok. Not certain there were any characters that I could truly relate too. And way too many convenient threads woven throughput the story that bound the characters together.

[Le An · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 this was cute!

[KDRBCK]

The Museum of Second Chances by new to me author Jo Leevers published by Lake Union Publishing is a full length, stand alone novel.
Heartwrenching, teary eyeing, and heart warming at the same tme.
I loved spending time with story and characters, loved the pace and the beautiful writing, 5 stars.

[Herbibliomaniac · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 🌟 for story , 4🌟 for audio

~♡~ Things I loved:
This was different than most books I've read. Bonus points for originality. The concept of a museum with oddities and following the stories that are connected was fun.
It is a community based story. At its heart, the story is about a woman trying to learn where she came from.

The audio itself was well done. I had the e-book too but found it easy enough to listen to-even at high speed-that I was able to multi-task.

~♡~ Things I didn't love as much:
At times it was a bit slow and not a lot of character connection for me because of how the book followed the individual stories of items. However, I really did also love how it was written.
It was a bit convenient how some of it was tied together.

Thanks to Brilliance Publishing and Jo Leevers for sending for me an Alc to review.
Narrated by Karen Cross.

[VickydpBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heartwarming, poignant, and quietly uplifting, this novel is a beautiful celebration of community, belonging, and the stories hidden within the everyday objects we often overlook. Rich with emotion and gentle charm, it reminds readers that the smallest discoveries can lead to life’s greatest revelations.

Evelyn Silver is a wonderfully memorable protagonist whose passion for preserving forgotten treasures makes her impossible not to root for. Her Museum of Maritime Curiosities is more than a collection of lost objects—it’s a symbol of hope, memory, and the belief that every life has value. As Evelyn’s search for her own past unfolds alongside the museum’s uncertain future, the story deftly balances mystery with heartfelt emotion.

The supporting cast brings warmth and authenticity to the narrative, creating a strong sense of community as individual lives become unexpectedly connected. The novel’s pacing is thoughtful, allowing each revelation to resonate while building toward a satisfying and emotionally rewarding conclusion. Themes of family, identity, resilience, and second chances are woven naturally throughout, making the story as reflective as it is uplifting.

Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven fiction with a touch of mystery, this is a beautifully written novel about finding home, embracing the past, and discovering that the things we think are lost often have a way of finding us when we need them most. It’s a moving and memorable read that lingers long after the final page.

[Dan Rogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

I opened this book with high expectations of it being a really good read. Those thoughts were quickly dashed as I found it really hard to keep with it. I was intrigued by the premise of the story so I continued to plug away. Finally the pace began to pick up until I reached the point where I couldn’t put it down. Eventually I had to stop doing anything in order to finish the last quarter of the book. I’m glad I did as it’s a book about how the little things in life can mean so much and we never really know another’s story unless and until they choose to share it with us. This actually turned out to be much more than I had expected and I’m glad I didn’t quit.

[Shari K Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This lovely book kept me engaged the whole time. A story about old hurts, new friendships across the generations, and unknown connections. It was a feel good story and I’ll definitely read more from this author.

[Amy K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable

An enjoyable little read with likeable, interesting characters who accept one another's quirks and work toward a common goal. A little slow to get started, but a sweet story.

[Diane Huntington · Rating 4 out of 5]

A touching story of family/friendship connections and second chances. Items that seemed unimportant to some unlocked so much for others. Loved watching Evelyn come out of her shell and learn who she really was.

[Ashley Fritch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great story ❤️

[Edmond Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unexpected interwoven events create a story that grips the reader. There is no way Evelyn Silver, an antisocial recluse in her clutter museum should touch so many lives, but she does. A well told story that keeps the reader involved from start to finish.

[Vicki F · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Museum of Second Chances by Jo Leevers has a slow start but great finish. Many secrets revealed along the way kept me reading to find out all of the secrets. Life has a way of unveiling things we try to keep hidden. Once the truth is revealed there is a great sense of freedom. While, as in this novel, some secrets can be devastating, healing can begin. Great characters and wonderful finish.

Released July 1st. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Amanda Nelson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

[Virginia Dianne Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Connections of lost items to individual stories and secrets made for a highly enjoyable read.

Slipped into life on the Cornwall coast, with a cast of interesting and relatable characters. Especially appreciated the clean story and smooth storytelling. Made me curious about a painting featured in the story, so I checked out images of the paintings of Peter Layton. Am a BIG believer in 2nd chances, having had multiple instances in my own life. Would love to read her debut novel next!

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slow start

I might give this novel 3.5 stars as I did enjoy it once I could finally get through the very slow start. Evelyn is introduced as a very prim, unyielding, unfriendly recluse who resides near her "museum," an odd collection of junk she's acquired through beachcombing and frequenting rummage sales. Her lot gets thrown in first with the woman, Della, who rents the shed next to hers, when the town council decides it's time to terminate their leases and build a new fast food restaurant on the property. After some awkwardness, Della gets a "Save Our History" committee going with some other locals, and it turns out (by chance, of course) that the most interesting items in Evelyn's museum contain secrets for each of the committee's members.
It's a heartwarming, if incredible, premise, with a mostly satisfying ending, but a few things kept me from rating it higher. Firstly, the novel starts out S-L-O-W. I am a fast reader, but I kept putting this one down for the first 25%, and I really thought it might be a DNF for me. But once I slogged through that portion, I finished the rest in two sittings. Secondly, it felt wrong to me that after everything Evelyn went through and how much secrets hurt her, that she left her business with Asa unfinished. She found out he was still alive, but never even offered him a letter of apology or explanation for the heartache she put him through. This just seemed completely incongruent with the theme of the book, and cruel of Evelyn.
Overall, after a rough start, this novel was still enjoyable, and I'm glad I finally finished it.

[Phyllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a comfortable read with quirky characters and family secrets that takes place in a smalltown community located in the UK.

The novel’s main character is Evelyn, owner and caretaker of the Museum of Maritime Curiosities. I enjoyed the way the additional characters were gradually introduced and I appreciated the author’s skillful descriptions of how they were connected to each other and to the Museum. It really was an ensemble cast, which occasionally had me stopping and reminding myself “which” was “who.” But all the characters made it a richer story, so I’m not complaining.

Themes of family, identity, lost & found, secrets, second chances, and community.

I found myself highlighting several insightful observations from various characters. A couple were “It’s hard when secrets come out. But it’s a lot worse when they stay hidden.” And “Home isn’t a place, it’s the people.”

This is a book that would be good for book groups, as it contains conversation-provoking discussion questions.

I wasn’t surprised by the way things ended up working out for everyone – that’s what made it a heartwarming and charming story.

Thanks to Amazon Prime First Reads for the digital copy. This was a buddy-read with my sister and also a friend.

Trigger warning: Domestic abuse

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for a free audiobook (written by Jo Leevers and narrated by Karen Cass) in exchange for an honest review ❤️

Evelyn goes out to the beach each morning to clean and collect. She has two bags on her shoulders, one for treasures and one for trash. For some, it might be hard to tell the difference between how she chooses between the two, but Evelyn saves everything that could have a story. She is waiting for someone to come notice her own secret treasure at the museum, a piece of lace, that was her only belonging when she was a foundling.

This is a heartwarming story that shows secrets from a small cast of characters within the community. It weaves back and forth, finding connections between the people, the stories, and the lost items that found a way to the museum.

I round this one up to 4 stars ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ for a nicely executed character-driven novel about second chances.

[RoxAnne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a nice story. Evelyn (museum owner) and Della (cafe owner) are about to lose their businesses when the City Council decides to sell the land to a developer. They join forces with a few other community members to make a plea to keep their business. The museum is full of relics Evelyn collected from the beach or through yard sales. The group starts collecting stories related to some of these artifacts to make a case as to the importance of the museum to the community. The group become friends and help each other during difficult times. A nice feel good story but it kind of drug on for me and I didn’t really relate to any of the characters.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Museum of Second Chances is a heartwarming story about a cast of characters, each searching for a second chance, who find purpose in saving a small museum in an English seaside town. It reminded me of a Fredrik Backman novel, showing how connection, community, and believing in one another can quietly change lives. An Amazon First Reads selection.

[Heather Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful winding story

This book literally takes you to Cornwall and the characters become so real that you don't want to put the book down. It's also an unusual premise that became more interesting as you read. Love the book will read more from this

[Theresa Baethke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding! Honestly I wasn’t sure if I would like the book. Not really my preferred read. But what a great book!

This book kept growing on me more profoundly every day. It even crept into my dreams. The characters were so well written they felt like real people to me.

Read this book!!

[Robin Lux · Rating 5 out of 5]

Better then expected

For a minute the book feels slow but pretty quickly you are thinking about the predictions we all make as we begin to understand the characters. Leevers does a great job developing those characters in this book and the ending, while not exactly as one might predict, has a satisfying ending.

[Veray · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is quite the story about a small museum in a small town and the people who are brought together because of the things found there. Secrets are uncovered and scandals are discovered and in the end after much shock and sadness there is peace and love and closure found.

[Roger Lundquist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Triumph

Wonderful character driven story. People are forced out of "their box" and move on triumphantly at the end. Who could ask for more?
Donitta